As required by of the Marine Mammal Protection Act, the U.S.
Secretary of Commerce established three independent regional scientific review groups to provide advice on a range of marine mammal science and management issues. The U.S. National Marine fisheries Service conducted a membership review of the Alaska, Atlantic, and Pacific SRGs, and is soliciting nominations for new members to fill vacancies and gaps in expertise.
SRGs members are highly qualified individuals with expertise in marine mammal
biology and ecology, population dynamics and modeling, commercial fishing technology and practices, and stocks taken under section 101(b) of the MMPA. The SRGs provide expert reviews of draft marine mammal stock assessment reports and other information related to the matters identified in section 117(d)(1) of the MMPA, including:
A. Population estimates and the population status and trends of marine mammal stocks;
B. Uncertainties and research needed regarding stock separation, abundance, or trends, and factors affecting the distribution, size, or productivity of the stock;
C. Uncertainties and research needed regarding the species, number, ages, gender, and reproductive status of marine mammals;
D. Research needed to identify modifications in fishing gear and practices
likely to reduce the incidental mortality and serious injury of marine mammals in commercial fishing operations;
E. The actual, expected, or potential impacts of habitat destruction, including marine pollution and natural environmental change, on specific marine mammal species or stocks, and for strategic stocks, appropriate conservation or management measures to alleviate any such impacts; and
F. Any other issue which the Secretary or the groups consider appropriate. SRG members collectively serve as independent advisors to NMFS and the U.S.
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