OPERATIONS AND BUDGET DIVISION

NH lobster sampling project funded under the Interjurisdictional Fisheries Act
(Credit: NOAA - Allison Murphy)

The Operations and Budget Division serves as the focal point for regional program planning, budgeting, and management analysis. It administers programs of financial assistance under which Federal funds are made available to states and other non-Federal interests (including Fishery Management Councils and Fishery Development Foundations) for carrying out projects consistent with the authorizing legislation (Atlantic Coastal Fisheries Cooperative Management Act, Interjurisdictional Fisheries Act, Saltonstall-Kennedy Act) relating primarily to further the conservation, management and utilization of fishery resources of the Northwest Atlantic. It also performs program analysis, reviews, and evaluations required for program emphasis and resource allocation decisions. OBD manages regional office financial operations, and coordinates the budget processes for all NMFS regional elements. It prepares policies and procedures for the Regional Administrator's consideration in implementing regional program plans and activities, and it provides services to the regional office that include property management, space utilization, small purchase procurement, records management, office supply and equipment, mail distribution, and reproduction services. OBD also ensures coordination of and input into the conservation, development and enhancement of aquaculture/mariculture issues/policy.