A comparison of obtaining field data using electronic and written methods

摘要

The use of electronic measurement and recording devices was investigated during the Alaska Department of Fish and Game 2002 red king crab (Paralithodes camtschaticus) stock assessment survey in Southeast Alaska. Because of the importance of survey data to fishery management, these data were also collected by written methods, allowing direct comparison of the two methods. Including, data collection and transferring to computer formal, electronic sampling was about three times faster than written methods. Additionally, when electronic methods were used, the sampling time, in person seconds, was about half that needed for written methods, potentially increasing the sample size for the survey. The few discernable differences between data collected by the two methods were primarily attributable to intersampler variability. Even with a prototype data collection system that was cumbersome to use, large savings in time and money could be realized with little effect on data collected. The limitations of the system used could easily be overcome with different equipment and careful attention to programming, further increasing data collection efficiency and accuracy.