An application of DLMtool to 4X5Y Cod

Abstract

The outputs of several population models proposed for 4X5Y cod are used to condition Operating Models in a simulation framework (DLMtool), to help visualize uncertainty related to in stock, fishery, and observation dynamics not currently accounted for in the population models. With guidance from Resource Managers, three Management Procedures were tested within each Operating Model, although over-estimation in the terminal years of the Operating Models undermined the usefulness of this exercise, given the timing constraints of the 4X5Y Cod Framework. Although the application of DLMtool did not contribute to the 2018 4X5Y Cod Framework, the tool does have broader application potential for other groundfish stocks in the Maritimes Region.