Published date: 22 October 2023

Closed opportunity - This means that the contract is currently closed. The buying department may be considering suppliers that have already applied, or no suitable offers were made.


Closing: 6 November 2023, 12pm

Contract summary

Industry

  • Marine research services - 73112000

  • Market research services - 79310000

Location of contract

NR33 0HT

Value of contract

£50,000 to £65,000

Procurement reference

CF-0155300D8d000003VQwdEAG

Published date

22 October 2023

Closing date

6 November 2023

Closing time

12pm

Contract start date

30 November 2023

Contract end date

31 March 2025

Contract type

Service contract

Procedure type

Open procedure (below threshold)

Any interested supplier may submit a tender in response to an opportunity notice.

This procedure can be used for procurements below the relevant contract value threshold.

Contract is suitable for SMEs?

Yes

Contract is suitable for VCSEs?

No

Description

Recreational Sea Fishing (RSF) is a popular activity with the potential to significantly impact fish stocks. Studies have shown that RSF contributes to removals from the overall stock, ranging from 2% to 43%. This wide range emphasises the need for accurate data collection and monitoring of RSF activities to ensure sustainable management of fish populations.

In the United Kingdom, RSF is currently an unlicensed activity, meaning there is no comprehensive record of the number of individuals participating in the activity. This lack of information presents a challenge when it comes to assessing the impact of RSF on fish stocks and implementing effective management measures.

To address this knowledge gap, a face-to-face survey was conducted between 2016 and 2019. The survey aimed to quantify RSF participation rates, the frequency of fishing trips, and gather data on socially and economically significant variables. However, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the survey methodology had to be adapted, and an online format was adopted in 2020. Consequently, the results obtained from the online survey are not directly comparable to the earlier face-to-face survey, raising concerns about the consistency and reliability of the data collected.

Given these challenges and the importance of accurately monitoring RSF catches, a new, bespoke, probabilistically designed survey focused on RSF is crucial. This survey process will provide a robust framework for data collection, ensuring accurate and comparable information on participation rates, fishing frequency, and other relevant variables. By conducting this survey, we can enhance our understanding of RSF's impact on fish stocks and facilitate evidence-based decision-making for the sustainable management of marine resources in the future.

Download the Bidder Pack at https://defra-family.force.com/s/Welcome and search for CEFAS23-124 under opportunities.

About the buyer

Contact name

Jade Peek

Address

Pakefield Road
Lowestoft
NR33 0HT
United Kingdom

Email

procure@cefas.gov.uk