Research project Implementing more and better use of survey data

General introduction

Considerable annual investment is made in surveys that provide essential information on fish stocks and their distribution in the European marine fisheries (the ICES area). The IMBUS (Implementing More and Better Use of ICES Survey data) project focuses on improving the accessibility, quality and usability of these scientific survey data within ICES. Currently, the use of these data is often limited by technical barriers, inconsistent methods and poor quality control. IMBUS is developing standardized tools and products that will allow researchers, policy makers, advisory councils, fishing organizations and NGOs to better (and correctly) dig into these data. The project contributes to an ecosystem approach to fisheries management and supports policy goals related to climate, biodiversity and sustainable fisheries.

Research approach

There are in two main lines: 1. Improved quality control: we are developing real-time quality control methods aboard the survey vessels, which will detect and correct errors more quickly during data collection. 2. Improved utilization of survey data: we are creating open-source tools, models and visualizations to make data accessible to a broad user base. The methodology combines data harmonization, statistical modeling and co-creation with stakeholders. The tools developed, such as interactive Shiny apps, are integrated into the ICES infrastructure, ensuring long-term usability and updating. Workshops and advisory boards ensure close involvement of researchers, policy makers and the fishing industry.

Relevance/Valorization

The researchers expect IMBUS to add direct value to fisheries management, biodiversity monitoring and climate impact studies. By making data more accessible and reliable, the project supports science-based policy decisions. The results will be embedded in the ICES Data Centre infrastructure and openly available to researchers, policy makers and stakeholders. Moreover, IMBUS contributes to European biodiversity policy, the Green Deal and the Farm to Fork strategy by developing new indicators, distribution maps and analysis tools. Through intensive collaboration with advisory councils, fisheries organizations and NGOs, the results are widely applied and sustainably secured.

Financing

EMFAF