WEST’s criteria for estimation and inference include accuracy, consistency, minimum variance, and implementation. WEST’s goal is to develop and teach techniques that can be implemented with minimal cost while following the hallmarks of statistical science.

WEST staff have resolved unique issues, such as research on optimal flow regimes to minimize impacts, development of long-term monitoring programs, creation of databases and analysis tools, simulation models, and an understanding of the effects of net selectivity on size composition of stocks.

WEST is a leader in sampling theory and has successfully designed state-of-the-art sampling protocols for a variety of marine and freshwater fishery projects.