The Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries (DMF) will be conducting its annual spring trawl survey throughout state coastal waters beginning May 8, 2023. Surveys have been conducted each May and September since 1978 to provide a consistent sampling of benthic fishes and mobile invertebrates. Survey data is used to monitor the condition of various marine stocks. The data is also used to inform the environmental review process, which advises on ways to minimize construction impacts on fisheries resources. Maintaining access to the planned sampling sites is critical to the integrity of the survey.
For more information, please review either the live map on our website or the tables and maps of station locations in the survey announcement. The live map displays all remaining tow locations. The full screen map (click see the map in full screen) has a feature which allows you to display your current location. On the upper lefthand side of the map page click the “scope icon” button just below the home button. With the location feature toggled on, your device will display your live location on the map in relation to tow circles and historical tows. This feature can be used to assure gear is not in conflict with planned tows.
In the event of a delay due to weather, the schedule will be resumed as soon as working conditions permit. Fishermen can contact the R/V Gloria Michelle on VHF channels 13 or 16 to determine the updated daily schedule. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated and is vital to the effective monitoring of marine resources in the Commonwealth. If you have any questions about the survey, please contact Steve Wilcox, steve.wilcox@mass.gov, (508) 742-9731. For other questions, please contact DMF at marine.fish@mass.gov.
