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Funding for Bycatch Reduction of Marine Mammals Now Available


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:
Steve Rebach, 919/515-9104, srebach@ncsu.edu

Posted Thursday, July 15, 2010

Competitive funding for research in support of the Bottlenose Dolphin Take Reduction Plan (BDTRP) and the Pelagic Longline Take Reduction Plan (PLTRP) is now available through North Carolina Sea Grant, in partnership with the National Marine Fisheries Service (NOAA Fisheries Service). Applications are due by 4 p.m. Aug. 30, 2010.

The research will focus on innovative and practical proposals that seek to enhance knowledge of bottlenose dolphin stocks and reduce serious injury and mortality (bycatch) incidental to commercial fisheries of coastal bottlenose dolphins under the BDTRP, and pilot whales and Risso's dolphins under the PLTRP. This represents a cooperative research opportunity with the commercial fishing industry, scientists, and other interested parties.

The RFP competition will be open to investigators primarily in the mid-Atlantic region, but well-crafted proposals from other East Coast investigators capable of performing research in the stated areas of need will be accepted.

Projects must comply with applicable federal regulations under the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation Management Act, the Endangered Species Act, and the Marine Mammal Protection Act.

All proposals will be reviewed for scientific, technical and analytical merit, and the ability to address one or more of the specific priorities under the respective take reduction plan. Proposals should not combine research priorities for both take reduction plans. Researchers should submit separate proposals if funding is sought for research priorities under both the BDTRP and the PLTRP. Final awards are contingent upon the availability of funds.

To learn more about this funding opportunity or to apply, view the RFP and application at the Applicant Forms & Information page under the Other Research and Mini-Grants column. Applicants will be notified of funding decisions in October 2010.

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