Abstract

Use of Geographic Information Systems by Fisheries Management Agencies
Track: Parks, Natural Reserves, Fisheries, and Wildlife Management
Authors: Brandon Eder

Use of geographic information systems (GIS) in fisheries science has increased in prevalence since its introduction in the late 1980s, but use among fisheries management agencies has not been quantified. We surveyed 89 fisheries division heads in the United States and Canada to determine the current status of GIS in fisheries management and received 54 responses (61% return rate). Our survey showed that GIS are widely used to help manage fish populations, and 63% of respondents believed GIS were either "very useful" or "extremely useful" for meeting agency objectives. Barriers preventing more widespread use included lack of time to use GIS in job duties and lack of knowledge or training. Our results suggest that GIS are an important tool for fisheries management. Further, GIS application can be increased by focusing on integration with existing job duties and increased biologist participation in training exercises and courses.