Using information about population structure to optimize the spatial scale of groundfish stock assessments along the US West Coast

Sustainable fisheries management relies on understanding the population structure of harvested species in relation to their management units. When spatial variation in genetics, movement, and/or life history traits are unaccounted for, we risk localized depletion or under-utilization of the resource. As such, defining the spatial stock structure of all federally managed species is legally mandated and a high priority for the Pacific Fisheries Management Council (PFMC). Many groundfish species are assessed as a single stock along the US West Coast. When sufficient data are available, finer-scale stock assessments are used to model subpopulations that are often delineated by state boundaries and/or biogeographic breaks. We conducted a comprehensive literature review to qualify evidence of spatial population structure for all species listed in the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery Management Plan. First, we synthesized species-specific information related to 1) genetic variation, 2) larval dispersal, 3) adult movement, and 4) other life history traits. We then compared the best scientific information available (BSIA) with the spatial scale of recent stock assessments. Where discrepancies were found, we recommend modifications to the spatial extent of stock assessment models. Better alignment between biological and management processes are likely to improve estimates of stock status and associated management decisions, which can have considerable impacts on coastal communities.

Presentation Preference: Poster

Primary Presenter: Holland Vernon, Weber State University (hvernon1226@gmail.com)

Authors:

Cheryl Barnes, Oregon State University  (cheryl.barnes@oregonstate.edu)

Madison Bargas, Oregon State University  (madison.bargas@oregonstate.edu)

Holland Vernon, Weber State University  (hvernon1226@gmail.com)

Todd Phillips, Pacific Fisheries Management Council  (todd.phillips@noaa.gov)