Fund research for Commercial Fisheries Research
MARCH 26, 2024
The CFRF was founded in 2004 by a group of fishermen and others in the industry in order to establish an alternative process for supporting fisheries research that would be led by members of the commercial fishing industry. Initially, the Foundation’s work focused on supporting collaborative conservation gear engineering projects, specifically in the groundfish fishery. The aim was for fishermen and scientists to work together to develop new gear or modify existing gear to allow fishermen to fish more selectively for species in abundance while protecting those stocks in need of rebuilding. Since that time, the Foundation’s work has expanded to include research pertinent to all fishing sectors (shellfish, lobster, finfish, etc.) and all areas of research important to the commercial fishing industry based in the southern New England region.
Sponsors make it possible for the CFRF to maintain its efforts to involve fishermen in scientific research, increase access to and appreciation of the seafood harvested by the region's hard working fishermen, and develop new initiatives that sustain healthy fisheries and vibrant fishing communities. Donations of all sizes help the CFRF to achieve its goal of building a community of collaboration among fishermen, scientists, resource managers, chefs, and educators that promotes sound science, public engagement, and sustainable seafood.