Assessing Bottom Gear Impact in the WGOM Closure Area: A Multifaceted Approach

Abstract

Mashkoor Malik presented the results of a UNH Center for Coastal and Ocean Mapping (CCOM) study of the seafloor of the WGOMCA. Objectives The objectives for the CCOM study were to: • Construct a bathymetric map of Jeffrey’s Ledge to serve as a framework for subsequent studies. • Test the potential use of multibeam sonar to monitor fishing gear impacts. • Determine if it is possible to observe closure impacts with multibeam sonar