New England fishing, processing and distribution

The New England fishing industry is examined in terms of the capacity of the fishing fleet, of the processing plants, and of the transportation system. Limitations on the capacity of the industry, and its capability and flexibility, are explored in terms of social, economic and technical aspects. The study is based on interviews with fishermen, buyers, processors and distributors, and on data made available by the National Marine Fisheries Service. Although the fisheries is in a state of expansion and both vessels and plants have a greater capacity than is now being used, the major problems that may restrict expansion in both fishing and processing are quality control, species selection and market development.This document is the final report for NOAA Contract #03-6-043-35165, which supported most of the research. Research was also supported with funds from the Pew Memorial Trust and from the Department of Commerce, NOAA Office of Sea Grant under Grant #04-8-M01-149, and was sponsored by the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution's Marine Policy and Ocean Management Program