Will the sportfishing community be involved with the redesign effort?
Yes. Many people, both inside and outside NOAA Fisheries, will be involved throughout the process. Even the most statistically sound data program cannot succeed without the support of those who collect, use, and are ultimately affected by the data. NOAA Fisheries has established teams of experts from the agency, state fisheries agencies, regional fisheries councils and interstate fisheries commissions, and partner organizations to lead the development of distinct aspects of the Marine Recreational Information Program. In addition, partners in the recreational fishing community and the outdoor media are providing a vital service by helping NOAA Fisheries ensure anglers are kept well informed as the new program progresses. Everyone who has an interest and a stake in the process has been invited and encouraged to participate from the beginning, and the agency will continue to lead a cooperative and transparent redesign process. (A complete roster of team members can be found at www.st.nmf
