68 



the two-tier system, respecting the interdependent balance of all marine 

 species. ^'°' 



It has been assumed that over time the Total Allowable Catch will 

 approach more closely the sum of individual quotas as these interspecies 

 relationships are better understood. 



These three issues appear to be of primary importance of the assessment 

 community at present. It should be noted that development of information in 

 these areas is long term in nature and must be developed while at the same 

 time providing information for short-term management decisions. The present 

 state-of-the-art, according to NMFS personnel, is about seventy percent 

 effective; in other words, existing methods and funding develop information 

 that will provide correct assessments seven times out of ten. It is felt 

 that the degree of accuracy can be somewhat increased by the addition of two 

 more vessels. 



The Domestic Industry 



Discussion with industry personnel revealed several other biological 

 issues that may be of importance, particularly regarding interspecies re- 

 lationships.^ ' It should be noted that during the 1950s assessment 

 scientists enjoyed relatively good rapport with members of the domestic 

 fishing industry. However, the foreign pressure on Georges Bank had two 

 critical effects on this rapport. 



• Foreign incursions rapidly depleted species of value to the American 

 fishermen, forcing him into economic difficulties, and all too rapidly 

 creating the need to restrict domestic fisheries harvesting efforts. 



