Defra has started a strong initiative the Fisheries Science Partnership under which fishermen and scientists work together to solve problems and provide more robust scientific data. The FSP programme was first started in 2003 and since then over 75 industry-inspired projects has been carried out.
Ideas for proposals are now invited from fishermen for projects to be undertaken in the 2011/12 financial year, subject to funding being available. Potential applicants should be aware that the objectives of the FSP are to: provide information from commercial fishing catches on key stocks to supplement data sources traditionally used in ICES assessments investigate concerns raised by fishermen on scientific assessments or on stocks not currently assessed; to investigate innovative scientific methods and/or more selective/environmentally friendly fishing methods support the work of Regional Advisory Councils.
The eligibility of this programme is to meet these objectives and be able to deliver a real solution. Turning an idea into a scientifically deliverable project is not always easy, so proposers may wish to ask their local Marine Management Organisation office for help. Alternatively, the Cefas FSP Contract Office can refer applicants to a scientist who can provide advice.
