The SMAST Fishermen’s Steering Committee comprises approximately 180 members of the fishing industry, including harvesters, vessel owners, processors, and other key stakeholders. The committee provides valuable expertise and firsthand observations to support and guide research efforts. Members engage in discussions on fisheries management, industry concerns, ongoing SMAST research initiatives, and future objectives. Representing a geographic area from North Carolina to Maine, the committee has played a vital role in shaping collaborative, science-based approaches to fisheries management since 1999.
August 2025
Meeting topics included 2024 Georges Bank drop camera survey results, upcoming research plans and objectives, and RSA compensation fishing lottery entries. Thanks to all those who attended!
February and April 2025
We held our annual pre-season steering committee meeting to review results from last year’s RSA funded surveys and to share submitted proposals for feedback and review from the fishing community. Results from the Mid-Atlantic drop camera surveys were of particular interest since the Mid Atlantic is sampled less frequently than the annual George’s Bank surveys. The mapped densities of sea scallops (recruits and adults) were shared along with the densities of sea stars. Thanks to all who attended in-person and online.
February 2023
Pictured below are snapshots from the steering committee meeting held at SMAST February 2023 and below is a recording of the same presentation given at the meeting. Feedback and discussions occurred during and after the presentation from both in-person and zoom attendees from members of the fishing industry and science groups.