Founded in 1979, the mission of the Bioengineering Section (BES) of the American Fisheries Society (AFS) is to promote excellence in the field of fisheries bioengineering through improved communication and networking between biologists, engineers, and other professionals working for the conservation of fisheries resources. BES sponsors and supports its membership in developing symposia, publications, workshops, short courses, and continuing education programs which advance the knowledge base and collaboration within the bioengineering fields.