The Independent Economic Analysis Board (IEAB) was established in November 1996 by the Council to assist with difficult economic issues associated with the Council's fish and wildlife program.

The Board is a panel of eight economists whose expertise helps improve the cost-effectiveness analysis of fish and wildlife recovery measures. The panel also provides economic advice on analysis of other fish, wildlife and energy issues at the Council's request.

IEAB members represent a variety of natural resource economics specialties and are required to be independent and free of conflicts of interest. Members are paid an hourly rate for work on Council approved tasks.