Program Overview
The Marine Recreational Information Program, or MRIP, is a new data collection and analysis initiative being implemented by NOAA Fisheries to help ensure the long-term sustainability of America’s fisheries and the health of our oceans. MRIP represents a management approach based on evaluating entire ecosystems, as opposed to single species of fish, that is evolving hand-in-hand with the latest marine science.
Currently being phased in across the nation, MRIP provides a more comprehensive and detailed picture of the number of trips being taken by recreational anglers, the amount and species of fish they are catching, where and when those fish are being caught, and the economic impact of recreational fishing on local, regional and national economies.
Through more timely and accurate fishing data, MRIP provides policy makers the information they need to make sound decisions based on the best science. As a program built on broad and continuing stakeholder input, MRIP also empowers anglers and other ocean enthusiasts to become a part of the resource management, conservation, and economic decision-making processes that impact their lives
Improved system of surveys
MRIP is a system of coordinated data collection programs designed to address specific regional needs for recreational fishing information. This regional approach based on a nationally consistent standard will ensure that the appropriate, targeted, place-based information is being collected to best meet the needs of managers and stakeholders, and that it is being done in a scientifically rigorous way.
Although NOAA Fisheries is ultimately responsible for making MRIP work, the program’s design has relied extensively on input and commitment from independent scientists, partner agencies, fishing groups, conservation organizations and individuals who served on MRIP working groups. Their efforts were heavily informed by dozens of meetings NOAA Fisheries held over an 18-month period with fishermen, data partners and other stakeholders from every region of the country.
Looking Forward
NOAA Fisheries envisions MRIP as a program that is part of the best and most trusted marine data collection system available. One in which people are confident in the integrity of the information they receive, managers have the appropriate tools in hand to effectively do their critical work, and stakeholders are engaged and empowered partners in the data collection process.
At its core, MRIP is built on the recognition that no single agency can effectively safeguard our ocean resources. Rather, the effort requires the buy-in, cooperation and engagement of a broad network of stakeholders.