In addition to the work done through ICES, a joint IMR/PINRO study on development of ecosystem approach to the fisheries management in the Barents Sea is conducted at the request from the JRNFC. In 2003 the JRNFC requested IMR and PINRO to evaluate the prospects for long-term yield of commercial species in the Barents Sea, taking into account species interactions and the influence from the environment (chapter Current and expected state of the ecosystem - Conclusions about state of the ecosystem). According to this request a joint IMR/PINRO project on evaluation of optimal long-term harvest in the Barents Sea Ecosystem was initiated (Filin and Tjelmeland 2005).