It is fact that the problems in ICES’ stock assessments largely caused by the heavy data dependence of the stock assessment models and the inability of the system to deliver the necessary data. To solve these problems the scientists to undertake a root and branch review of its assessment models. At a major conference in Ostend organised by the Belgian Presidency, Dr Carl O’Brien, Vice-Chair of ACOM, confirmed that ICES is reviewing its assessment models.
He said that ICES models are data hungry and maintaining such a huge data under traditional age-structured models are becoming less useful for management. Therefore, ICES is investigating to opt for simpler models which require less complicated data and are capable of using data generated by the industry – for example through fisheries science partnerships.
He also added that ACOM is already successfully using simplified models for deep sea stocks where the data is scarce. This approach could also have relevance to the fisheries in the North Sea, Celtic Sea and Irish Sea. The use of simpler assessment models that allow for the use of industry knowledge and data could mark a huge breakthrough in breaking down barriers between scientists and fishermen.
The two day conference shed light on the incredible range of fisheries science partnership projects now undertaken across the EU. The NFFO was not shy in underlining its central role in developing, with Defra and Cefas, in 2003, the groundbreaking Fisheries Science Partnership (FSP), although we had the good grace to acknowledge that we did borrow ideas from both North America and Norway.
