A Population Modelling Tookit for First Nations Commercial Fisheries Management

The goal of this research project is to develop a management toolkit that will enable First Nation fisheries managers to select and employ appropriate mathematical population models based on management objectives and available data. The primary societal contribution of this research program is the development of a toolkit that will immediately enable access to ecological risk assessment (ERA) tools that target the appropriate level of biological organization (i.e. populations) in a transparent, accountable, and scientifically defensible manner. The project has been designed to satisfy three specific objectives with associated deliverables: (1) Review of the scientific literature regarding mathematical modeling tools available for model selection and application, (2) Development of computer programs for a range of alternative population models and management objectives, ranging in parameter complexity and data requirements, and (3) Creation of a professionally designed web-based graphical user interface to guide First Nation analysts in managing data, explicitly identifying management objectives, selecting appropriate population models for bjectives/ data, executing population models,and generating tabular and graphical output for use in management decision-making.

Faculty Supervisor:

Dr. Stephen Crawford

Student:

Gregory Klotz, Daniel Gillis and Jasper Tey

Partner:

Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation

Discipline:

Mathematics

Sector:

Fisheries and wildlife

University:

University of Guelph