Apologies for cross postings. Some may be interested in the following article just published in Marine Policy: J. E. Moore, B. P. Wallace, R. L. Lewsion, R. Zydelis, T. M. Cox, and L. B. Crowder. 2009. A review of marine mammal, sea turtle and seabird bycatch in USA fisheries and the role of policy in shaping management. Marine Policy 33: 435-451 Abstract: This paper reviews the available information (observer programs, estimates, statutes, regulations) for bycatch of marine mammals, sea turtles, and seabirds in fisheries of the United States. Goals of the review were to evaluate the state of knowledge of bycatch and the role of existing protective legislation in shaping bycatch management for different taxa. Pressing issues are identified, as well as knowledge gaps and policy limitations that hinder multi-species bycatch reduction. The USA has made important progress toward reducing bycatch in its fisheries, but the efficacy of its management has been limited somewhat by a focus on taxon- and fishery-specific regulation and the lack of consistent mandate across taxa for taking a cumulative perspective on bycatch. Applying consistent criteria across taxa for setting bycatch limits (e.g., extending the approach used for marine mammals to sea turtles and seabirds) would be the first step in a multi-species approach to bycatch reduction. A population-based multi- species multi-gear approach to bycatch would help identify priority areas where resources are needed most and can be used most effectively. Online subscribers to Marine Policy may access the article here: <http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.marpol.2008.09.003> http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.marpol.2008.09.003 Otherwise, go here: http://www.duke.edu/~jemoore/09_Moore%20et%20al_USA%20bycatch%20review.pdf Jeff ****************************************** Jeffrey Moore, Ph.D. Research Scientist Duke University Marine Laboratory 135 Duke Marine Lab Road Beaufort, NC 28516 Phone: (252) 504-7621 Fax: (252) 504-7689 Email: jemoore@duke.edu Web: www.duke.edu/~jemoore *****************************************