The Fishery Ecosystem Plan evolved from the Council's Habitat Plan and involved a more thorough characterization of the South Atlantic Ecosystem. This effort aims at providing the Council with a foundation from which to attain a more comprehensive understanding of habitat and biology of species, fishery information, social and economic impacts of management and ecological consequences of conservation and management. The Fishery Ecosystem Plan is comprised of six volumes:
Volume I - Overview of the South Atlantic Ecosystem -- Contains background supporting move to ecosystem-based management, relates the development process of the Fishery Ecosystem Plan and Comprehensive Ecosystem-Based Amendments, and provides an overview of the South Atlantic ecosystem.
Appendix A - South Atlantic Climate
Appendix B - SAFMC Managed Areas
Volume II - South Atlantic Habitats and Species -- Contains detailed descriptions of the many habitats that comprise the South Atlantic ecosystem and their role as Essential Fish Habitat for various managed species. Also inlcuded are descriptions of the managed species themselves, those under management by the Council and those that are managed by other agencies, including protected species. Finally, summaries of the South Atlantic states' Wildlife Conservation and Management Strategies are provided.
Appendix A - Acropora Status Review
Appendix B - Acropora factsheet
Volume III - Human and Institutional Environment - Provides detailed descriptions of coastal communities within each of the South Atlantic states and of the SAFMC-managed fisheries as well as those managed by other agencies in the region.
Appendix A - Spiny Lobster Amendment 8
Appendix B - ACCSP Spatial Representation of Commercial Catches
Volume IV - Threats to the South Atlantic Ecosystem and Recommendations -- Includes information on non-fishing threat and those related to fishing activities. Descriptions of Essential Fish Habitat for managed species and designated Habitat Areas of Particular Concern are also inlcuded. Finally, conservation recommendations are provided to promote conservation and minimize impacts.
Volume V - Research and Data Needs -- Provides a synopsis of ongoing research programs in the region and outlines additional information needs to fully attain an ecosystem-based approach to management.
Appendix A - Interjurisdictional Research Needs
Appendix B - Critical Research Needs
Volume VI - References