The Council received a Social Science Planning Team (SSPT) update on the new advisory body’s membership, scope, and preliminary agenda for a public in-person meeting in May 2018. The meeting will take place in Anchorage, AK on dates to be determined during the week of May 7. Details will be provided on the SSPT webpage when they become available.
The SSPT will review the first iteration of a social science data “gap analysis” that identifies areas of need, existing sources that are underutilized, and pathways to incorporate existing/new information into the management process. The SSPT will continue to refine its scope and prioritize its activity by reviewing past SSC comments on social science information needs. The Council encouraged the SSPT to reflect on its “mission” as the group gains insight from the gap analysis. The SSPT was asked to consider how best to communicate its findings to the broader Council process, and how the group might interact with efforts such as rural community outreach and the Bering Sea FEP initiative. The Council is interested in the SSPT’s feedback on how to systematically collect and incorporate local/traditional knowledge about the fishery resource, the ecosystem, and human dimensions.
After receiving feedback from the SSC, the Chairman provisionally approved nominations for three new members. Dr. Mike Downs (SSC), Dr. Elizabeth Figus (NPFMC), and Mike Fey (AKFIN) were nominated based on their relevant expertise and experience with the collection and application of social science data to fishery management. The Council will discuss the nominations in executive session in April.
Staff contact is Sarah Marrinan.
