The National Observer Program within NOAA Fisheries' Office of Science and Technology provides support to observer programs around the country. Improvements in data collection, observer training, and the integration of observer data with other research are among the important issues that the program works to achieve on a national level.

•Acts as the lead for the mid-Atlantic region (New Jersey through North Carolina).Monitors Branch activities in the mid-Atlantic, including: overseeing the requests for coverageand sampling recommendations made by data users and assessing the feasibility of therequests.• Acts as the Point of Contact for the Mid-Atlantic Assistant Area Lead. This includes overseeing daily activities, prioritizing work assignments, monitoring time and attendance;monitoring work achievements, and reviewing performance with contractors.• Oversees the vessel selection criteria used in the mid-Atlantic to ensure that coverage isfair, equitable, and representative of the fishing effort. Develops new monitoring programs inthe mid-Atlantic as needed.• Coordinates program activities with the NEFSC, SEFSC, SERO staff in administeringthe beach- based and alternate platform programs for coverage of coastal fisheries. Monitorsand develops beach-based and alternate platform sampling plans when required.• Maintains Branch's small boats, monitors maintenance and provides safety inspectionsfor both vessels . Ensures FSB compliance with NOAA Small Boat Program and acts as amember of the NEFSC Small Boat Committee.• Works with the National Observer Program to develop nationally consistent health &safety standards for observers working at sea. Develops and assists with observer safetytraining. Acts as a member of the NMFS National Safety Committee.• Serves as the Safety Officer for the NEFOP. Develops and maintains the EmergencyAction Plan for the NEFOP (FSB staff in the workplace and observers in the field).

I deploy scientific observers on commercial pelagic longline vessels to record data for assessment and monitoring. These vessels fish all throughout the Atlantic for swordfish and/or tuna, ~150 miles offshore.

R/V Nauvoo