NOAA Fisheries, Southeast Region, is seeking proposals under the Marine Fisheries Initiative Program (MARFIN) for research and development projects that optimize the use of fisheries in the Gulf of Mexico, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and off the South Atlantic states of North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida, involving the U.S. fishing industry (recreational and commercial), including fishery biology, resources assessment, socio-economic assessment, management and conservation, selected harvesting methods, and fish handling and processing. This program addresses NOAA's mission goal "Healthy Oceans."

The intent is to focus projects funded by MARFIN into cooperative efforts that provide clear answers for fishery needs covered by the NMFS Strategic Plan. MARFIN provides a necessary programmatic integration through cooperative planning, the accomplishment of program activities, and an annual MARFIN conference.

ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS INCLUDE INDIVIDUALS, NONPROFITS, INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION, AND STATE, LOCAL, AND INDIAN TRIBAL GOVERNMENTS.

CLOSING DATE: DECEMBER 31