Using Acoustic Telemetry Data to Advise Management of An Atlantic Cod Spawning Closure

After decades of overfishing, the Gulf of Maine (GOM) stock of Atlantic cod declined, and historic coastal spawning components were depleted. In 2009, the state of Massachusetts implemented a seasonal closure to protect a cod spawning aggregation within state waters. The closure was intended to prevent continued extirpation of spawning aggregations and disruptions to spawning behavior. Acoustic telemetry was used to monitor cod movements and behavior while spawning. Residence time and movements were used to inform managers as to the spatio-temporal characteristics of spawning activity within the closure. This information was then used to alter the size and timing of the closure to maximize the protection offered to the spawning aggregation, while minimizing the impact on fisheries. The open communication among scientists and managers allowed for near real-time management decisions to be made based upon scientific findings during multiple seasons. This case study suggests that fishery management processes can be more effective if they are flexible and adaptive to reflect the dynamic nature of the marine resources and fisheries being managed.