Improving Observer Data Delivery for Inseason Management

In 2011, Individual Fishing Quotas (IFQs) were implemented in the U.S. west coast groundfish fishery. The IFQ program requires reliable and timely observer data to be reported daily for quota tracking purposes. We describe how the Northwest Fishery Science Center Observer Program improved data quality control measures, delivery procedures and developed a new offline data entry application to provide accurate data to end-users in near-real-time. Improvements in quality control and delivery procedures reduced the average time to IFQ accounts by approximately 60%. Offline data entry allows observers to enter their data at-sea into a copy of the NWFSC database held on their laptop. At port, observer data and the original data collection forms are uploaded to the master database and therefore available for immediate review by Program scientists. Offline data entry is showing promise for faster data delivery and brings the NWFSC Observer program a step closer to real-time data delivery. We are exploring new technologies for direct data entry as it is collected, which has the potential to increase speed and accuracy and reduce paper data.  Additionally, we are implementing changes to improve access to observer data for all users, not just IFQ account holders.