Request for Proposals: Ecosystem Information Review and Strategy Development for More Resilient Fisheries
Proposal Submission Deadline: June 30, 2025
More information on the project scope, timeline, applicant qualifications, and how to apply can be found in the full request for proposals (RFP).
The South Atlantic Fishery Management Council (SAFMC) is seeking a contractor to conduct a comprehensive review of ecosystem information for incorporation into SAFMC decision-making and management processes. The SAFMC has consistently identified a lack of ecosystem information as a primary challenge to managing the fisheries within the South Atlantic region. Data needed to describe changing ocean environments and predict their potential impacts on managed species are becoming increasingly important. This project aims to operationalize recommendations and priority action items developed through the East Coast Scenario Planning initiative to identify and strategize the use of ecosystem data and information, and foster data sharing partnerships.
The contractor will review ecosystem data sources and information and develop strategies for how ecosystem information can be incorporated into the SAFMC decision-making and management processes. The project is expected to begin in July 2025 and to be completed by July 2026. The contractor will present the final report to the SAFMC in September 2026.
Key objectives include:
- Review various types of ecosystem data and information, including data products and decision-support tools currently available to regional management councils.
- Identify opportunities and methods for integrating ecosystem information into SAFMC management processes, including inter-jurisdictional management decision-making processes.
- Identify opportunities to expand cooperative, constituent-engaged data collection and research to improve available ecosystem information in the South Atlantic region.
The successful candidate(s) should have experience collaborating with diverse stakeholders, a background in marine or environmental science, extensive knowledge of federal, state, and other ecosystem data collection programs, and familiarity with relevant laws and Executive Orders applicable to federal fisheries management.