Home > Explore News > Sanctuary's Open and Closed Fishing Areas Compared to Test Policy Effectiveness

Sanctuary's Open and Closed Fishing Areas Compared to Test Policy Effectiveness

Published on: 06/06/2012
Research Area(s): Marine Spatial Ecology

Scientists from the National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science are comparing several areas of Gray's Reef National Marine Sanctuary to help Sanctuary officials differentiate changes to fish populations due to natural events, or whether the changes derive from human activities. The multi-agency research cruise runs from May 27—June 9, 2012.

The researchers gather data to compare fish communities and their habitat between a small research-only area, closed to all fishing and diving for a limited time, with the remainder of the sanctuary where hook-and-line fishing, hand lining and scuba diving are permitted.

The research area allows investigations to evaluate possible impacts from fishing on the sanctuary's natural resources by providing a zone free of human activities and impacts to habitats or populations that result from those activities. The research area also allows scientists to more accurately determine the effects of natural events (e.g., hurricanes) and cycles (e.g., droughts) on the sanctuary, according to the October 2011 Federal Register Notice.

 

Gray's Reef National Marine SanctuaryFinal Management Plan and Final Environmental ImpactStatement (PDF)

Gray's Reef National Marine Sanctuary Program Report for October—December 2011

Explore Similar News

About NCCOS

NCCOS delivers ecosystem science solutions for stewardship of the nation’s ocean and coastal resources to sustain thriving coastal communities and economies.

Stay Connected

Sign up for our quarterly newsletter or view our archives.

NCCOS Multimedia

Visit our new NCCOS Multimedia Gallery. 

Follow us on Social

Listen to our Podcast

Check out our new podcast "Coastal Conversations"