Our solution is to utilize the acoustic survey capabilities of a ground-fish vessel (the F/V Adventurer). A scientific-grade echosounder and data logging system will allow that vessel to collect high-quality acoustic data. We will use a parallel transect design to survey pre-spawning herring aggregations along the Maine coast as they assemble from northeast to southwest during the autumn spawning season. Fish samples will be collected to determine species composition and permit accurate conversions between acoustic backscatter and herring biomass. We will also sample hydrographic variables that may be used to predict herring distributions (and hence more efficiently target future acoustic survey efforts).
We plan to complete the development of a cost-effective means of assessing and monitoring coastal spawning stocks of herring. The immediate measurable outcomes from this project will include: 1) the production of a biomass estimate for the coastal spawning stock, 2) the development of a standardized survey protocol for future years, and 3) analysis of possible correlations between herring distributions and oceanographic variables. However, the longer-term objectives of this program (to continue this program as a regular monitoring effort and incorporate the results into future stock assessment procedures) extend well beyond the project year.