Abstract

Raster Analysis Enables Improved Enforcement of Fisheries in the Mid-Atlantic
Track: Defense and Intelligence
Authors: Susan Pomeroy

One of the major focuses of US Coast Guard District 5 law enforcement efforts is Living Marine Resources (LMR) enforcement. In the past, the operational commander has relied on historical fishing patterns, air patrols, and information from local fishermen to determine the location of the Atlantic fishing fleet. Many commercial fishermen already rely on commercial services that calculate optimal fishing locations based upon NOAA satellite data containing sea surface temperature and chlorophyll content. NGA developed a methodology that allows District 5 to determine optimal fishing areas using NOAA satellite data, which allows the operational commander to plan patrols more effectively. This presentation will explain the methodology and success to date, as well as planned method and application improvements.