SPASAM-MSE: A Generalized Spatial Management Strategy Evaluation Framework This Zenodo record archives the published article: Li, C., Deroba, J.J., Goethel, D.R., Berger, A.M., Schueller, A.M., Langseth, B.J., Liljestrand, E., Hanselman, D.H., & Miller, T.J. SPASAM-MSE: A generalized spatial management strategy evaluation framework for exploring the impacts of spatial structure on stock assessments and management outcomes. Canadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences (Special Issue on State-Space Methods). Overview SPASAM-MSE (Spatial Processes and Stock Assessment Methods – Management Strategy Evaluation) is a fully generalized and modular spatial MSE framework designed to evaluate the impacts of spatial population structure on stock assessment performance and fisheries management outcomes. The framework integrates spatial population dynamics directly into both: Operating Models (OMs) – representing the "true" system Estimation Models (EMs) – representing assessment models used for management advice These components are embedded within a closed-loop feedback simulation. Key Features SPASAM-MSE supports: Multiple spatial population structures: Panmictic Spatial heterogeneity Natal homing Metapopulation configurations Flexible seasonal and ontogenetic movement dynamics Random effects and state-space modeling Environmental covariate linkages Spatial catch apportionment strategies Flexible harvest control rules (HCRs) Explicit comparison of spatially mismatched OM–EM configurations Example Application The example application included in the paper demonstrates how misalignment between spatial structure in the OM and EM influences: Spawning stock biomass (SSB) Catch performance Risk of overfishing Trade-offs among management strategies Five candidate EM structures (PAN, FAA, SEP, SpD, SpE) are evaluated under a spatially explicit operating model with natal homing movement. Software Implementation SPASAM-MSE is implemented in R and builds upon the WHAM (Woods Hole Assessment Model) state-space assessment platform. Source code and documentation are available at: 👉 https://github.com/lichengxue/SPASAM-MSE-Method-Paper Citation Please cite the original journal article when using or referencing this work. This Zenodo archive provides a permanent, citable record of the publication and associated materials.