The model is in Microsoft Access database and is running using the Ecopath with Ecosim (EwE) software. To obtain the EwE software, visit the EwE website .

Download the Chesapeake Bay Model Database used for the Ecopath portion of the model.

Download the fisheries and ecological time series database used for the Ecosim portion of the model.

Click the links below to download the following reports:

A dynamic model of the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem: Final Report

Current technical document (draft)

Project Overview

Workshop Report I

Workshop Report II

Version 1.0 of the FEM has been completed and technical documentation, which provides details on all of the data and parameters in the model, is being reviewed by the Living Resources Analytic Workgroup. A presentation on the current model was given during the NCBO Research Symposium on April 27 and 28, 2005. A draft version of the e FEM (v1.0) and technical documentation is now available to the research community, managers, and CBP so that model evaluation may proceed. At this stage, FEM (v1.0) will be considered a working model that fits available time series data on fish and shellfish biomass and catches well given the parameters supplied by the local research community during past EwE workshops. Further information on model fit is detailed in the model documentation.

At this time, the FEM (v1.0) can be used to familiarize managers with ecosystem effects of fisheries policies. After the FEM has been reviewed and approved by STAC, then the role of FEM in ecosystem-based fisheries management can be expanded. The FEM is designed to serve as a decision support tool and not a regulatory tool. Information from FEM should be a part of a suite of tools that fisheries managers use for setting policy, such as stock assessments and local ecological knowledge.

In the near future (Winter 2006), NCBO, in conjunction with UBC Fisheries Research Centre, will offer a 2- or 3- day workshop on using the FEM to . At this workshop, a brief overview/review of EwE will be given and baseline results from simulation scenarios for the nine management questions developed in previous EwE workshops will be presented. These results will be discussed among workshop participants and further development of the scenarios will occur based on the discussions. In addition to the management scenarios, on a separate day, a FEM temporal and spatial resolution workshop will take place. This workshop is specifically directed towards developing the spatial module of Ecopath with Ecosim, Ecospace, for the Chesapeake Bay model.

Currently the model is being reviewed under the guidance of the Chesapeake Bay Program Living Resources Analytic Workgroup. Previously a more comprehensive review, development, refinement and application cycle for the model was to be guided by the Ecosystem Model Technical Advisory Panel. We would like the community’s input and suggestions on a system for guiding the model development and application. Click for details on this putative structure for the development and application of the FEM. Please contact Howard Townsend with your input and suggestions.