On Friday, lab member Erinn Bell presented findings at the 10th Annual Delaware Environmental Institute (DENIN) Research Symposium, showcasing work conducted alongside Kent Wicker (PhD student), Dr. Oremus, and collaborators at the University of Chicago and the National Resource Defense Council (NRDC). Erinn’s presentation focused on inconsistencies in the application of accountability measures across regional fishery management councils (RFMC). The project critically examines how U.S. fishery regulations are implemented in practice. Specifically, the research investigates whether councils consistently adjust catch limits after overages, as mandated by the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (MSA), which governs U.S. fisheries. Analyzing data from 2010-2023, the study’s authors find that many stocks exceed their catch limits without subsequent corrective action despite little biological justification–highlighting how uneven application of accountability measures may undermine efforts to rebuild overfished stocks and achieve goals set out in the MSA.
EXCITING UPDATE (5/2/2025):
Erinn won first place for her poster presentation at the event!
