The Atlantic Sea Scallop Dredge Survey, a cornerstone of fisheries science and management along the U.S. East Coast, marked more than four decades of research in 2024, underscoring its role in supporting one of the region’s most valuable commercial fisheries.
First launched in 1979, the survey has evolved from a government-led effort into a collaborative partnership between marine scientists and the scallop fishing industry. Today, researchers work alongside commercial crews aboard working scallop vessels, allowing data to be collected under real-world fishing conditions.
The survey gathers critical information on the abundance, spatial distribution, and life history of Atlantic sea scallops across a broad range, from Georges Bank to the Delmarva Peninsula. This long-running dataset provides fisheries managers with the scientific foundation needed to set catch limits, protect habitat, and ensure the sustainability of the stock.
Atlantic sea scallops support a high-value commercial fishery that remains one of the most lucrative in the region. In 2024 alone, the fishery generated approximately $333 million in revenue, highlighting both its economic importance and the stakes involved in effective management.
Scientists say the continued cooperation between researchers and the fishing industry has been key to the survey’s success, improving data quality while fostering shared stewardship of the resource. As the survey enters its next decade, it remains central to balancing economic vitality with the long-term health of the Atlantic sea scallop population.
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