stock assessments

Stock assessments are scientific processes used to evaluate the health of a fish or wildlife population. They analyze data on how many animals are present, how many are breeding, and how many are caught or hunted. The goal is to determine whether the population is stable, growing, or declining. This information helps managers set sustainable limits on harvesting or fishing, ensuring the population remains healthy for the future. In essence, stock assessments provide an informed picture of the population’s status, guiding responsible resource management decisions.