Collect data on effort, directed catch and bycatch quantity, morphometrics, biological characteristics, and interaction with marine mammals, turtles, and birds as they relate to federal fisheries regulations. Marine mammals, turtles, and sea birds as protected species bycatch. Program coordinators are responsible for maintaining data storage and retrieval, quality control, and administrative support. NMFS is responsible for funding and overall administration of the observer program including observer training, debriefing, data management, and data analyses. Program coordinators are responsible for arranging placement of NMFS certified contractors aboard vessels, including logistics and travel support of observers to vessels selected for coverage.
All administrative support is provided by the coordinators and agency.