Bycatch Hotspots Initiative
Bycatch Hotspots Initiative supports Gulf fishing communities through communication networks and mapping tools to help avoid high-bycatch areas and restore species harmed by the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.
Funder: National Fish and Wildlife Foundation
Due Dates: See facilitation support RFQ for submission deadlines
Funding Amounts: $4.4 million total initiative budget over five years
Summary: NFWF and NOAA are evaluating voluntary communication and mapping networks to reduce bycatch and restore fish populations in and around the Gulf.
Key Information: Fisheries participation is voluntary and separate from fishing regulations.
Description
The Bycatch Hotspots Initiative, also called the Hotspots Mapping Initiative, is managed by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). It evaluates whether fisheries communication networks and mapping tools can reduce bycatch and mortality of species injured by the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill. The initiative is part of the Open Ocean Restoration Plan’s work to restore fish and water column invertebrates.
The project combines information voluntarily contributed by fishermen and fishery stakeholders with environmental and species-distribution data to develop real-time, regularly updated guidance for avoiding high-bycatch areas. Its priorities include engaging fishing communities, assessing coordination and data needs, and identifying fisheries, fleets, regions, and ports that could benefit from these networks. Work with commercial and recreational stakeholders also examines the technologies needed to support information sharing and improve fishing experiences.
