Fishery Characterization and EM Feasibility Assessment

The contract seeks to conduct baseline research on the Hawaii short line fishery and evaluate the technical, operational, and economic feasibility of implementing electronic monitoring systems. The work will involve gathering comprehensive data on fishery characteristics including vessel operations, catch composition, gear types, enforcement challenges, and stakeholder practices to establish a detailed understanding of the current fishery context. The selected contractor will produce two primary deliverables: a Fishery Characterization Report that documents the fishery’s structure and dynamics, and an EM Feasibility Assessment that analyzes whether electronic monitoring can reliably replace or supplement onboard observers, considering factors such as cost, reliability, data quality, and integration with existing management frameworks. The project is classified as a subcontract under NAICS code 541620, indicating it involves scientific research and development services, and is managed by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration under the U.S. Department of Commerce. The opportunity was posted on August 4, 2026, with a response deadline of August 18, 2026, and requires proposers to demonstrate expertise in marine fisheries research, data analysis, and technology assessment. The place of performance and point of contact details are not specified, but the work is focused on the Hawaii short line fishery and must address local conditions and regulatory environments. Successful applicants will be expected to deliver scientifically rigorous, actionable findings that support future seafood sustainability and fisheries management decisions in the region.