Nov
20
10:00 AM10:00
Workshop

Scup Gear Restricted Areas Public Workshop

  • See location details below (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE), in cooperation with the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, will hold a workshop to collect industry input on the current scup Gear Restricted Areas (GRAs). The Council and CCE are particularly seeking input from small mesh trawl fishermen. However, anyone with an interest in the scup GRAs is invited to attend.

When: Wednesday November 20, 2024, 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Where: The workshop will be held at three in-person locations with a webinar option available:

  • Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County Office – 423 Griffing Ave., Riverhead, NY 11901

  • Superior Trawl – 55 State St., Narragansett, RI 02882

  • Lund’s Fisheries – 997 Ocean Drive, Cape May, NJ 08204

  • Webinar (Zoom) – Connection information is available here

Registration: Please register here if you are planning to attend.

Workshop Purpose: The workshop will be facilitated by CCE as part of a Council-funded project titled “Utilizing Collaborative Strategies to Assess and Adapt Scup GRAs in Response to Climate Change.” First implemented in 2000 and 2001, the Council’s two scup GRAs are intended to reduce juvenile scup discards in small mesh fisheries during certain times of the year. Recent data suggest there has been a shift in where and when scup discards occur, and it is anticipated that changes may continue with changing ocean conditions and species distributions. Industry input provided during this workshop will be used along with fisheries and environmental data to evaluate potential changes to the GRAs.

Additional Information: Visit the Cornell Cooperative Extension page to learn more.

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Nov
20
6:00 PM18:00
Public Comment

SAFMC King and Spanish Mackerel Port Meeting (Berlin, MD)

  • Worcester County Library Berlin Branch (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

The South Atlantic Fishery Management Council is hosting a series of port meetings along the Atlantic coast to take a focused look at the commercial and recreational king and Spanish mackerel fisheries. Input gathered during these port meetings will directly affect future management efforts for king and Spanish mackerel.

Port meetings are more than a public comment opportunity. Attendees will have the chance to actively discuss their perspectives with other fishery participants and local Council members.

Mid-Atlantic Port Meetings

Note: All meetings will be held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

  1. November 18th, 2024 - Virginia Beach, VA. Brock Environmental Center – Oyster Conference Room, 3663 Marlin Bay Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23455.

  2. November 19th, 2024 - White Stone, VA. Town of White Stone Town Hall Building, 433 Rappahannock Drive, White Stone, VA 22578.

  3. November 20th. 2024 - Berlin, MD. Worcester County Library Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Avenue, Berlin, MD 21811.

  4. November 21st, 2024 - Manahawkin, NJ. Stafford Township Administration Building, 260 East Bay Avenue, Manahawkin, NJ 08050.

Help Spread the Word

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Nov
21
9:00 AM09:00
Working Group

Northeast Trawl Advisory Panel (NTAP) Working Group Meeting

The Northeast Trawl Advisory Panel Bigelow Contingency Plan Working Group will hold a meeting via webinar on Thursday, November 21, 2024 from 9 a.m. – 10 a.m. During this meeting the working group will continue their discussions on the Industry-Based Survey pilot project.

Webinar Connection

  • Click here to join the webinar (If prompted, enter Meeting Number: 2331 235 4547; Password: mvPHkf24J5N)

  • Phone-Only Access: 1-415-655-0001 (U.S. Toll Free); Access code: 2331 235 4547. Please only use this option if you are not connecting to the webinar on your computer or device. Otherwise follow the audio connection prompts to call in when you join the webinar.

Meeting Materials

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Nov
21
1:00 PM13:00
Stock Assessment

Longfin Inshore Squid Research Track Working Group Meeting

This is one in a series of working group meetings associated with the Longfin Inshore Squid Research Track Assessment. Please visit the Longfin Inshore Squid Research Track Working Group page on the NOAA Fisheries website for an agenda and webinar connection details (scroll down to the “Schedule” section). This meeting is open to the public.

Background Information

Research track assessments evaluate new datasets that can either inform or be used in new or existing stock assessment models. Unlike management track assessments, which are driven by the need to meet specific management timelines, research track assessments are carried out over longer time frames and with fewer requirements for using the most recent data. The research track is intended to be the opportunity for extensive and comprehensive research and analysis.

Working groups carry out the analytical work required for the stock assessment, including developing and implementing the research plan and terms of reference, conducting the necessary research, compiling the results to inform the research track effort, and incorporating other information and public input as appropriate.

What Happens Next?

After the working group has completed its work, a peer review panel will be convened to conduct a comprehensive review of the research track assessment.

Typically, research track outputs are incorporated into future management track assessments (as opposed to directly informing management decisions). For this reason, research track assessments are often scheduled to have management track assessments in the following year, which ensures immediate application of the research results with the inclusion of the most recent data in a management track assessment.

Quick Links

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Nov
21
3:00 PM15:00
Committee Meetings

Highly Migratory Species Committee Meeting

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council’s Highly Migratory Species (HMS) Committee will meet via webinar on Tuesday, November 21, 2024 from 3 p.m. - 5 p.m.

During this meeting, the HMS Committee will review and provide comments on the NOAA HMS Proposed Rule for Electronic Reporting Requirements for Atlantic HMS.

Staff Contact:

Hannah Hart; (302)-526-5263; hhart@mafmc.org

Webinar Connection

  • Click here to join the webinar (If prompted, enter Meeting Number: 2345 139 7988; Password: HMS_Committee)

  • Phone-Only Access: 1-415-655-0001 (U.S. Toll Free); Access code: 2345 139 7988. Please only use this option if you are not connecting to the webinar on your computer or device. Otherwise follow the audio connection prompts to call in when you join the webinar.

Meeting Materials

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Nov
21
6:00 PM18:00
Public Comment

SAFMC King and Spanish Mackerel Port Meeting (Manahawkin, NJ)

  • Stafford Township Administration Building (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

The South Atlantic Fishery Management Council is hosting a series of port meetings along the Atlantic coast to take a focused look at the commercial and recreational king and Spanish mackerel fisheries. Input gathered during these port meetings will directly affect future management efforts for king and Spanish mackerel.

Port meetings are more than a public comment opportunity. Attendees will have the chance to actively discuss their perspectives with other fishery participants and local Council members.

Mid-Atlantic Port Meetings

Note: All meetings will be held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

  1. November 18th, 2024 - Virginia Beach, VA. Brock Environmental Center – Oyster Conference Room, 3663 Marlin Bay Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23455.

  2. November 19th, 2024 - White Stone, VA. Town of White Stone Town Hall Building, 433 Rappahannock Drive, White Stone, VA 22578.

  3. November 20th. 2024 - Berlin, MD. Worcester County Library Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Avenue, Berlin, MD 21811.

  4. November 21st, 2024 - Manahawkin, NJ. Stafford Township Administration Building, 260 East Bay Avenue, Manahawkin, NJ 08050.

Help Spread the Word

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Nov
25
1:00 PM13:00
FMAT Meeting

Essential Fish Habitat (EFH) Amendment Fishery Management Action Team (FMAT) Meeting

The Council’s Essential Fish Habitat (EFH) Amendment Fishery Management Action Team (FMAT) will meet via Webinar on Monday, November 25 from 1 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

The purpose of this meeting will be to continue work on the 10 components required of the EFH review and preparation of the draft EFH Review Report for the Council. The FMAT will be convened with the NEFMC Habitat PDT, as several of the EFH Review work products to support the EFH review apply to the entire Northeastern US.

Connection details may be obtained by contacting Council staff prior to the meeting.

Contacts:

Jessica Coakley - jcoakley@mafmc.org; 302-526-5252

Tori Kentner - tkentner@mafmc.org; 302-526-5262

Meeting Materials:

  • Meeting materials will be posted when available

About FMAT Meetings

Fishery Management Action Team (FMAT) meetings are working meetings of the Council, NOAA Fisheries, and Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission staff. Information on FMAT meeting locations for in-person meetings may be obtained by contacting Council staff prior to the meeting. This information is not posted to the Council’s website. The date and time of FMAT meetings are generally posted to the calendar on the Council’s website, sometimes with very little notice. FMAT members may discuss topics listed on the agenda in any order and may also discuss topics not listed. Members of the public may attend FMAT meetings, or listen to the meetings if they are broadcast, but should not expect to participate in the discussion unless the FMAT chair invites public input during a specified public comment period to be noted at the beginning of the meeting. Work carried out by the FMAT is considered during committee and/or Council meetings, during which public comments are encouraged.

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Dec
12
9:00 AM09:00
Working Group

Northeast Trawl Advisory Panel (NTAP) Working Group Meeting

The Northeast Trawl Advisory Panel Bigelow Contingency Plan Working Group will hold a meeting via webinar on Thursday, December 12, 2024 from 9 a.m. – 10 a.m. During this meeting the working group will continue their discussions on the Industry-Based Survey pilot project.

Webinar Connection

  • Click here to join the webinar (If prompted, enter Meeting Number: 2331 235 4547; Password: mvPHkf24J5N)

  • Phone-Only Access: 1-415-655-0001 (U.S. Toll Free); Access code: 2331 235 4547. Please only use this option if you are not connecting to the webinar on your computer or device. Otherwise follow the audio connection prompts to call in when you join the webinar.

Meeting Materials

  • Meeting materials will be shared when available

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Dec
12
2:30 PM14:30
Workshop

Industry Workshop on Safe Work Environment for Observers

NOAA Fisheries and the Office of Law Enforcement will host three workshops for fishing industry members to help answer common questions about harassment and sexual assault/harassment, and to further support observers in the field. One of the workshops is scheduled for December 12th at 2:30 at the Westin Annapolis after the December 2025 Council meeting. 

The workshops will be hosted in-person and will have a hybrid option for those interested in participating virtually. Workshops are voluntary and the topics will include: what constitutes harassment, how to communicate safety-related concerns, how NOAA's Office of Law Enforcement follows up on harassment reports, and more. The workshop is expected to last approximately 50 minutes, consisting of a 30 minute presentation with time left for questions. Industry members are encouraged to attend.

Visit the workshop page on the NOAA Fisheries website for additional details.

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Dec
13
12:00 PM12:00

Northeast Trawl Advisory Panel (NTAP) Orientation Meeting

The Mid-Atlantic and New England Fishery Management Councils will hold a public meeting of their joint Northeast Trawl Advisory Panel. The meeting will be held via webinar on Friday, December 13, 2024 from 12 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.

The intent of this meeting is to discuss NTAP in detail, including background, organization, purpose, and member expectation.

Webinar Connection

  • Click here to join the webinar (If prompted, enter Meeting Number: 2348 759 9748; Password: Vs7HgvPHx83)

  • Phone-Only Access: 1-415-655-0001 (U.S. Toll Free); Access code: 2348 759 9748. Please only use this option if you are not connecting to the webinar on your computer or device. Otherwise follow the audio connection prompts to call in when you join the webinar.

Meeting Materials

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Dec
18
1:00 PM13:00
Committee Meetings

Joint Ecosystem and Ocean Planning (EOP) Committee and Habitat Committee Meeting

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council’s Ecosystem and Ocean Planning (EOP) Committee will meet jointly with the New England Fishery Management Council Habitat Committee via webinar December 18, 2024 from 1 p.m. - 4 p.m..

During this meeting the EOP and Habitat Committees will discuss recommendations regarding the Council’s Essential Fish Habitat (EFH) reviews and the draft EFH Review Reports being prepared for the Council.

MAFMC Staff Contact:

Webinar Connection

  • Webinar information will be shared prior to the meeting.

Meeting Materials

  • Meeting materials will be posted when available

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Jan
2
9:00 AM09:00
Working Group

Northeast Trawl Advisory Panel (NTAP) Working Group Meeting

The Northeast Trawl Advisory Panel Bigelow Contingency Plan Working Group will hold a meeting via webinar on Thursday, January 2, 2025 from 9 a.m. – 10 a.m. During this meeting the working group will continue their discussions on the Industry-Based Survey pilot project.

Webinar Connection

  • Click here to join the webinar (If prompted, enter Meeting Number: 2331 235 4547; Password: mvPHkf24J5N)

  • Phone-Only Access: 1-415-655-0001 (U.S. Toll Free); Access code: 2331 235 4547. Please only use this option if you are not connecting to the webinar on your computer or device. Otherwise follow the audio connection prompts to call in when you join the webinar.

Meeting Materials

  • Meeting materials will be shared when available

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Jan
13
to Jan 17

2025 MREP Greater Atlantic Fisheries Science & Management Workshop

  • Sea Crest Beach Hotel (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

By fishermen, for fishermen, the Marine Resource Education Program (MREP) offers a neutral look into regional fishery science and management. MREP’s Greater Atlantic workshop is tailored to the area. It brings commercial, charter, and recreational fishermen from North Carolina to Maine together with regional scientists and managers to learn the processes, share insights, and network. This workshop will equip you with tools to engage in the management process and participate in collaborative science. If interested, apply to the 2025 MREP Greater Atlantic workshop. Space is limited, and preference will be given to applications received by November 8, 2024. Accepted participants will be notified by phone and email by late November 2024. Attending the workshop is free for anyone who fishes or works in associated fishing industries. MREP reimburses travel costs and pays for hotel lodging and meals for accepted participants.

For more information about MREP, please contact:

  • Hank Soule, Groundfish Sector Manager, (603) 781-9718

  • Rick Bellavance, Charter Captain, (401) 741-5648

  • Robert Ruhle, MAFMC, NC Rep., (252) 305-0960

General questions about the program should be directed to the MREP Team, at emoore@gmri.org or (207) 228-1652. For FAQ, please visit mrep.gmri.org.

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Jan
23
9:00 AM09:00
Working Group

Northeast Trawl Advisory Panel (NTAP) Working Group Meeting

The Northeast Trawl Advisory Panel Bigelow Contingency Plan Working Group will hold a meeting via webinar on Thursday, January 23, 2025 from 9 a.m. – 10 a.m. During this meeting the working group will continue their discussions on the Industry-Based Survey pilot project.

Webinar Connection

  • Click here to join the webinar (If prompted, enter Meeting Number: 2331 235 4547; Password: mvPHkf24J5N)

  • Phone-Only Access: 1-415-655-0001 (U.S. Toll Free); Access code: 2331 235 4547. Please only use this option if you are not connecting to the webinar on your computer or device. Otherwise follow the audio connection prompts to call in when you join the webinar.

Meeting Materials

  • Meeting materials will be shared when available

View Event →
Feb
13
9:00 AM09:00
Working Group

Northeast Trawl Advisory Panel (NTAP) Working Group Meeting

The Northeast Trawl Advisory Panel Bigelow Contingency Plan Working Group will hold a meeting via webinar on Thursday, February 13, 2025 from 9 a.m. – 10 a.m. During this meeting the working group will continue their discussions on the Industry-Based Survey pilot project.

Webinar Connection

  • Click here to join the webinar (If prompted, enter Meeting Number: 2331 235 4547; Password: mvPHkf24J5N)

  • Phone-Only Access: 1-415-655-0001 (U.S. Toll Free); Access code: 2331 235 4547. Please only use this option if you are not connecting to the webinar on your computer or device. Otherwise follow the audio connection prompts to call in when you join the webinar.

Meeting Materials

  • Meeting materials will be shared when available

View Event →
Mar
6
9:00 AM09:00
Working Group

Northeast Trawl Advisory Panel (NTAP) Working Group Meeting

The Northeast Trawl Advisory Panel Bigelow Contingency Plan Working Group will hold a meeting via webinar on Thursday, March 6, 2025 from 9 a.m. – 10 a.m. During this meeting the working group will continue their discussions on the Industry-Based Survey pilot project.

Webinar Connection

  • Click here to join the webinar (If prompted, enter Meeting Number: 2331 235 4547; Password: mvPHkf24J5N)

  • Phone-Only Access: 1-415-655-0001 (U.S. Toll Free); Access code: 2331 235 4547. Please only use this option if you are not connecting to the webinar on your computer or device. Otherwise follow the audio connection prompts to call in when you join the webinar.

Meeting Materials

  • Meeting materials will be shared when available

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Mar
18
to Mar 19
SSC

March 2025 SSC Meeting

The Council’s Scientific and Statistical Committee will meet March 18-19, 2025. This meeting will be conducted by webinar. Please note that the timing and topics may change as agendas are finalized. Check this page for updates.

Anticipated Topics:

  • 2025 State of the Ecosystem report

  • 2025 EAFM risk assessment

  • Update from SSC Work Groups – OFL CV, Ecosystem, Blueline Tilefish

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May
13
to May 14
SSC

May 2025 SSC Meeting

The Council’s Scientific and Statistical Committee will meet May 13-14, 2025. This will be an in person meeting (location TBD) with a virtual option. Please note that the timing and topics may change as agendas are finalized. Check this page for updates.

Anticipated Topics:

  • 2026 ABC reviews: Butterfish, Longfin Squid, Golden Tilefish, Atlantic Surfclam, Ocean Quahog

  • Blueline Tilefish: Joint Tilefish sub-group outcomes, 2026-2028 ABC recommendations

  • Chub Mackerel: 2026-2028 ABC recommendations

  • Update from SSC Work Groups – OFL CV, Joint Meeting(s)

  • Final report/recommendations from 8th National SCS Workshop

View Event →
Jul
22
to Jul 24
SSC

July 2025 SSC Meeting

The Council’s Scientific and Statistical Committee will meet July 22-24, 2025. This will be an in person meeting (location TBD) with a virtual option. Please note that the timing and topics may change as agendas are finalized. Check this page for updates.

Anticipated Topics:

  • Management track assessment results and OFL/ABC recommendations for:

    • Summer Flounder

    • Scup

    • Black Sea Bass

    • Bluefish

    • Atlantic Mackerel

    • Illex Squid

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Sep
9
to Sep 10
SSC

September 2025 SSC Meeting

The Council’s Scientific and Statistical Committee will meet September 9-10, 2025. This will be an in person meeting (location TBD) with a virtual option. Please note that the timing and topics may change as agendas are finalized. Check this page for updates.

Anticipated Topics:

  • Offshore wind discussion

  • MRIP FES Update and Overview

  • 2026 ABC reviews: Spiny Dogfish

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Nov
19
6:00 PM18:00
Public Comment

SAFMC King and Spanish Mackerel Port Meeting (White Stone, VA)

  • Town of White Stone Town Hall Building (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

The South Atlantic Fishery Management Council is hosting a series of port meetings along the Atlantic coast to take a focused look at the commercial and recreational king and Spanish mackerel fisheries. Input gathered during these port meetings will directly affect future management efforts for king and Spanish mackerel.

Port meetings are more than a public comment opportunity. Attendees will have the chance to actively discuss their perspectives with other fishery participants and local Council members.

Mid-Atlantic Port Meetings

Note: All meetings will be held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

  1. November 18th, 2024 - Virginia Beach, VA. Brock Environmental Center – Oyster Conference Room, 3663 Marlin Bay Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23455.

  2. November 19th, 2024 - White Stone, VA. Town of White Stone Town Hall Building, 433 Rappahannock Drive, White Stone, VA 22578.

  3. November 20th. 2024 - Berlin, MD. Worcester County Library Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Avenue, Berlin, MD 21811.

  4. November 21st, 2024 - Manahawkin, NJ. Stafford Township Administration Building, 260 East Bay Avenue, Manahawkin, NJ 08050.

Help Spread the Word

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Nov
19
2:00 PM14:00
FMAT Meeting

Recreational Sector Separation and Catch Accounting Amendment FMAT/PDT

The Council’s and ASMFC’s joint Fishery Management Action Team (FMAT)/Plan Development Team (PDT) for the Recreational Sector Separation and Catch Accounting Amendment will meet via Webinar on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, from 2-4pm.

The purpose of this meeting is to review a draft action plan and draft scoping document for the Recreational Sector Separation and Catch Accounting Amendment to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass and Bluefish FMPs. This action was initiated in 2020 as part of the Recreational Reform Initiative, but has since been on hold in order to prioritize other actions. The Council and ASMFC’s Policy Board will consider approval of a scoping document at their December joint meeting.

Webinar Connection

About FMAT Meetings

Fishery Management Action Team (FMAT) meetings are working meetings of the Council, NOAA Fisheries, and Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission staff. The date and time of FMAT meetings are generally posted to the calendar on the Council’s website, sometimes with very little notice. FMAT members may discuss topics listed on the agenda in any order and may also discuss topics not listed. Members of the public may attend FMAT meetings, or listen to the meetings if they are broadcast, but should not expect to participate in the discussion unless the FMAT chair invites public input during a specified public comment period to be noted at the beginning of the meeting. Work carried out by the FMAT is considered during committee and/or Council meetings, during which public comments are encouraged.

View Event →
Nov
19
9:00 AM09:00
Monitoring Committee

Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Monitoring Committee Meeting

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council's Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass (SFSBSB) Monitoring Committee will meet via webinar on Tuesday, November 19, 2024 from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

The purpose of this meeting is to discuss 2025 recreational management measures for all three species.

Staff contacts:

Webinar Connection

  • Click here to join the webinar (If prompted, enter Meeting Number:

    2335 492 1278; Password: recreational). After you connect you will have the option to choose whether to use your phone or computer microphone and speakers for audio.

  • Phone-Only Access: 1-415-655-0001; Access code: 2335 492 1278. Please only use this option if you are not connecting to the webinar on your computer or device. Otherwise follow the audio connection prompts to call in when you join the webinar.

Meeting Materials

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Nov
18
6:00 PM18:00
Public Comment

SAFMC King and Spanish Mackerel Port Meeting (Virginia Beach, VA)

  • Brock Environmental Center (Oyster Conference Room) (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

The South Atlantic Fishery Management Council is hosting a series of port meetings along the Atlantic coast to take a focused look at the commercial and recreational king and Spanish mackerel fisheries. Input gathered during these port meetings will directly affect future management efforts for king and Spanish mackerel.

Port meetings are more than a public comment opportunity. Attendees will have the chance to actively discuss their perspectives with other fishery participants and local Council members.

Mid-Atlantic Port Meetings

Note: All meetings will be held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

  1. November 18th, 2024 - Virginia Beach, VA. Brock Environmental Center – Oyster Conference Room, 3663 Marlin Bay Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23455.

  2. November 19th, 2024 - White Stone, VA. Town of White Stone Town Hall Building, 433 Rappahannock Drive, White Stone, VA 22578.

  3. November 20th. 2024 - Berlin, MD. Worcester County Library Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Avenue, Berlin, MD 21811.

  4. November 21st, 2024 - Manahawkin, NJ. Stafford Township Administration Building, 260 East Bay Avenue, Manahawkin, NJ 08050.

Help Spread the Word

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Nov
14
2:00 PM14:00
Advisory Panel

Joint Meeting of the MAFMC and ASMFC Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Advisory Panels

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council’s Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Advisory Panel will hold a public webinar meeting, jointly with the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission’s Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Advisory Panel. The meeting will be held via webinar on Thursday, November 14, 2024 from 2 p.m. - 5 p.m.

The objective of this meeting is to discuss 2025 recreational measures (i.e., bag, size, and season limits) for summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass. The Council and Commission previously adopted 2024-2025 recreational measures for summer flounder and scup (the same measures across the two years). Therefore, Advisors will review the previously adopted 2025 recreational measures for summer flounder and scup and provide input on whether these measures should remain unchanged. Black sea bass recreational measures for 2025 were not previously adopted; therefore, Advisors will discuss considerations for 2025 black sea bass measures and provide input on the appropriate approach for 2025 black sea bass recreational measures.

Staff contact:

Webinar Connection

  • Click here to join the webinar. If prompted, enter meeting number 2333 873 4833 and password 9gmN3YKK5H6.

  • After you connect to the webinar, follow the prompts to use your computer, phone, or other device for audio.

  • If necessary to connect via phone only, you may dial 1-415-655-0001 and enter access code 2333 873 4833.  Please only use this option if you are not able to connect to the webinar.

Meeting Materials

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Nov
12
2:00 PM14:00
Committee Meetings

Law Enforcement Committee Meeting

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council’s Law Enforcement Committee will meet via webinar on Tuesday, November 12, 2024 from 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.

During this meeting, the Council’s Law Enforcement Committee will review a potential change to the butterfish mesh regulations, especially enforcement concerns raised by NOAA.

Staff Contact:

Jason Didden; (302)-526-5254; jdidden@mafmc.org

José Montañez; (302) 526-5258; jmontanez@mafmc.org

Webinar Connection

  • Click here to join the webinar. (If prompted, enter Meeting Number: 2347 524 1622; Password: DsgMh65eMJ3)

  • Phone-Only Access: 1-415-655-0001 (U.S. Toll Free); Access code: 2347 524 1622. Please only use this option if you are not connecting to the webinar on your computer or device. Otherwise follow the audio connection prompts to call in when you join the webinar.

Meeting Materials

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Nov
4
to Nov 5
Committee Meetings, Advisory Panel

Joint Ecosystem and Ocean Planning (EOP) Committee and Advisory Panel Meeting

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council’s Ecosystem and Ocean Planning (EOP) Committee and Advisory Panel will meet jointly via webinar November 4-5, 2024. The meeting will begin at 1:00 p.m. on November 4 and conclude by 12:00 p.m. on November 5.

During this meeting the EOP Committee and AP will review a completed draft of the Council’s Ecosystem Approach to the Fisheries Management (EAFM) risk assessment report.

Staff Contact: Brandon Muffley, 302-526-5250; bmuffley@mafmc.org

Webinar Connection

  • Click here to join the November 4-5 EOP Committee and AP meeting  (if prompted, enter Meeting number: 2345 063 3067; Meeting password: MrFyWM4Pm32). After you connect, you will have an opportunity to choose whether you want to use your phone or computer mic/speakers for audio.

  • For telephone-only access, dial +1-415-655-0001 (US Toll) and enter access code 2345 063 3067

Meeting Materials

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Oct
31
1:00 PM13:00
Stock Assessment

Longfin Inshore Squid Research Track Working Group Meeting

This is one in a series of working group meetings associated with the Longfin Inshore Squid Research Track Assessment. Please visit the Longfin Inshore Squid Research Track Working Group page on the NOAA Fisheries website for an agenda and webinar connection details (scroll down to the “Schedule” section). This meeting is open to the public.

Background Information

Research track assessments evaluate new datasets that can either inform or be used in new or existing stock assessment models. Unlike management track assessments, which are driven by the need to meet specific management timelines, research track assessments are carried out over longer time frames and with fewer requirements for using the most recent data. The research track is intended to be the opportunity for extensive and comprehensive research and analysis.

Working groups carry out the analytical work required for the stock assessment, including developing and implementing the research plan and terms of reference, conducting the necessary research, compiling the results to inform the research track effort, and incorporating other information and public input as appropriate.

What Happens Next?

After the working group has completed its work, a peer review panel will be convened to conduct a comprehensive review of the research track assessment.

Typically, research track outputs are incorporated into future management track assessments (as opposed to directly informing management decisions). For this reason, research track assessments are often scheduled to have management track assessments in the following year, which ensures immediate application of the research results with the inclusion of the most recent data in a management track assessment.

Quick Links

View Event →
Oct
31
10:00 AM10:00

East Coast Climate Coordination Group Meeting

The East Coast Climate Coordination Group will meet by webinar on October 31, 2024, from 10AM-3PM.

Webinar Connection

  • After you connect to the webinar, follow the prompts to use your computer, phone, or other device for audio.

  • If necessary to connect via phone only, you may dial 1-415-655-0001 and enter access code 2338 639 4917.  Please only use this option if you are not able to connect to the webinar.

Meeting Materials

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Oct
28
to Oct 29
FMAT Meeting

Essential Fish Habitat Amendment - Fishery Management Action Team (FMAT) Meeting

The Council’s Essential Fish Habitat (EFH) Amendment Fishery Management Action Team (FMAT) will meet in-person on Monday, October 28 from 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. and Tuesday October 29 from 8:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.

The purpose of this meeting will be to continue work on the 10 components required of the EFH review and preparation of the draft EFH Review Report for the Council. The FMAT will be convened with the NEFMC Habitat PDT, as several of the EFH Review work products to support the EFH review apply to the entire Northeastern US.

The meeting location and connection details may be obtained by contacting Council staff prior to the meeting.

Contacts:

Jessica Coakley - jcoakley@mafmc.org; 302-526-5252

Tori Kentner - tkentner@mafmc.org; 302-526-5262

Meeting Materials:

  • Meeting materials will be posted when available.

About FMAT Meetings

Fishery Management Action Team (FMAT) meetings are working meetings of the Council, NOAA Fisheries, and Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission staff. Information on FMAT meeting locations for in-person meetings may be obtained by contacting Council staff prior to the meeting. This information is not posted to the Council’s website. The date and time of FMAT meetings are generally posted to the calendar on the Council’s website, sometimes with very little notice. FMAT members may discuss topics listed on the agenda in any order and may also discuss topics not listed. Members of the public may attend FMAT meetings, or listen to the meetings if they are broadcast, but should not expect to participate in the discussion unless the FMAT chair invites public input during a specified public comment period to be noted at the beginning of the meeting. Work carried out by the FMAT is considered during committee and/or Council meetings, during which public comments are encouraged.

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Oct
15
to Oct 16
Stock Assessment

Research Track Steering Committee Meeting

The Research Track Steering Committee (RTSC) will meet by webinar October 15-16, 2024. Please visit the meeting page linked below for an agenda and webinar connection details (scroll down to the “Schedule” section).

Meeting Goals

  • Discuss progress on Research Priorities for the 2027 (Striped bass, Monkfish, Projections) and 2028 (Silver hake, Scup, Sturgeon, and Acadian redfish) Research Track Assessments

  • Identify Research Priorities for 2029 (Witch flounder, Biological Reference Points) Research Track Assessments 

  • Discuss proposals for stocks and/or topics for the 2030 Research Track Assessments 

About the Research Track Steering Committee

The RTSC is a Northeast Region Coordinating Council committee that guides and oversees the research track assessment process and includes representatives from the New England and Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Councils, the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, and NOAA’s Northeast Fisheries Science Center. The RTSC looks at future research track stock assessments scheduled up to five years in advance and explores new methods and data to develop new or improve existing stock assessments.

The RTSC’s primary functions include:

  • Identifying new research and critical research/data/information needs for future research track assessments

  • Ensuring that research track assessments benefit from new research conducted prior to assessment.

  • Monitoring the progress of critical assessment research

  • Developing annual proposals for stocks or topics of future research track assessments

  • Considering the need to reevaluate the stock structure for species on the research track schedule

  • Communicating assessment research findings

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Oct
3
3:00 PM15:00
Advisory Panel

Joint Meeting of the MAFMC and ASMFC Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Advisory Panels

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council’s Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Advisory Panel will hold a public webinar meeting, jointly with the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission’s Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Advisory Panel. The meeting will be held via webinar on Thursday, October 3, 2024 from 3 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

The purpose of this meeting is for the Advisory Panels to review and provide comments on the draft Summer Flounder Commercial Mesh Size Exemptions Framework/Addendum.

Staff contact:

Webinar Connection

  • Click here to join the webinar. If prompted, enter meeting number 2348 746 4641and password yXpCJays823.

  • After you connect to the webinar, follow the prompts to use your computer, phone, or other device for audio.

  • If necessary to connect via phone only, you may dial 1-415-655-0001 and enter access code 2348 746 4641.  Please only use this option if you are not able to connect to the webinar.

Meeting Materials

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Oct
2
to Oct 3
Workshop

Atlantic Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Species Separation Requirements Amendment Implementation Issues Workshop

  • Philadelphia Marriott Downtown (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council will hold a workshop related to the Atlantic Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Species Separation Requirements Amendment Wednesday, October 2nd -Thursday, October 3rd at the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown.

The purpose of the workshop is to create a focused discussion on how aspects of alternative 5 of the SCOQ Species Separation Requirements Amendment would be implemented by the Council and NOAA Fisheries.

Webinar Connection

The workshop will be partially broadcast by webinar. Plenary sessions only will be available for listen-only access with the option to provide comments through the chat function during the public comment periods noted on the agenda. Breakout group sessions will not be broadcast by webinar. See the workshop agenda for a schedule of which sessions will be broadcast; however, please note that the agenda is subject to change during the workshop.

  • Click here to join the webinar. (If prompted, enter Meeting Number: 2337 081 8416; Password: SCOQWorkshop24).

  • Join by phone only: 1-415-655-0001 US Toll

  • For webinar troubleshooting help, please see this page.

 Meeting Materials

Memo to Participants

  1. Workshop Goals

  2. Workshop Agenda

  3. List of Participants

  4. List of Frequently Used Acronyms, Conversions, and Definitions

  5. Alternative 5 Description (includes action purpose and need and link to full document)

  6. Some Relevant Regulation Excerpts (includes link to full regulations)

  7. Industry Developed Descriptions

  8. Agency Descriptions and FAQs 

  9. Supplemental Information, Background, and Comment Letters

  10. Additional Material (NOAA Analysis & Program Support Division, Operational Graphic)

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Sep
26
1:00 PM13:00
Stock Assessment

Longfin Inshore Squid Research Track Working Group Meeting

This is one in a series of working group meetings associated with the Longfin Inshore Squid Research Track Assessment. Please visit the Longfin Inshore Squid Research Track Working Group page on the NOAA Fisheries website for an agenda and webinar connection details (scroll down to the “Schedule” section). This meeting is open to the public.

Background Information

Research track assessments evaluate new datasets that can either inform or be used in new or existing stock assessment models. Unlike management track assessments, which are driven by the need to meet specific management timelines, research track assessments are carried out over longer time frames and with fewer requirements for using the most recent data. The research track is intended to be the opportunity for extensive and comprehensive research and analysis.

Working groups carry out the analytical work required for the stock assessment, including developing and implementing the research plan and terms of reference, conducting the necessary research, compiling the results to inform the research track effort, and incorporating other information and public input as appropriate.

What Happens Next?

After the working group has completed its work, a peer review panel will be convened to conduct a comprehensive review of the research track assessment.

Typically, research track outputs are incorporated into future management track assessments (as opposed to directly informing management decisions). For this reason, research track assessments are often scheduled to have management track assessments in the following year, which ensures immediate application of the research results with the inclusion of the most recent data in a management track assessment.

Quick Links

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Sep
19
9:00 AM09:00
Committee Meetings

Spiny Dogfish Committee Meeting

The Spiny Dogfish Committee will meet via webinar on Thursday, September 19, 2024 from 9 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

The purpose of this meeting is for the Committee to review 2025 fishing year specifications and consider if any changes are appropriate.

MAFMC Contact: Jason Didden - jdidden@mafmc.org; 302-526-5254

Webinar Connection

  • Click here to join the meeting. If prompted, enter Meeting number: 2342 908 9567; Meeting password: AMceZwpJ654

  • For phone only access: 1-415-655-0001; Access Code: 2342 908 9567. Please only use this option if you are not connecting to the webinar on your computer or device. Otherwise follow the audio connection prompts to call in when you join the webinar.

Meeting Materials and Background Information

  • Background Materials are available at the September SSC Meeting page.

  • Due primarily to catch changes/increases in 2022 and 2023, projections were updated using the current stock assessment model, and the ABCs were lower.

    • The SSC provided Acceptable Biological Catches (ABCs) for 2025/2026 of either: 7,230 metric tons (MT) for both years or 7,031 MT for 2025 and 7,446 MT for 2026.

    • The current ABC for 2024 of 7,818 MT implemented by NOAA was higher than SSC/Councils’ ABC (NOAA set ABC = over-fishing limit)

  • The Committee’s regulatory task is to recommend a quota that will ensure that the Annual Catch Limit (ACL) is not exceeded, which means that discards must be accounted for.

  • Monitoring Committee Summary

    • Recent higher discards and the need to avoid ACL overages appear to make it very difficult to avoid quota reductions, but industry members of the Monitoring Committee and public comment highlighted that their observations do not indicate any lack of spiny dogfish and that quota reductions could end the industry and have wide ranging negative impacts on fishery participants and related businesses.

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Sep
17
6:00 PM18:00
Public Hearing, Public Comment

Public Hearing #2: Summer Flounder Commercial Mesh Exemptions Framework/Addendum (Copy)

The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission has scheduled two virtual public hearings to gather input on the Summer Flounder Commercial Mesh Exemptions Framework/Addendum. Although the Council’s framework development process does not include public hearings, all public comments provided during the Commission’s comment period will be considered by both groups before taking final action.

Written comments will be accepted through September 28, 2024. Please see the Commission’s press release for comment instructions.

Visit the Council’s Summer Flounder Commercial Mesh Size Exemptions Framework/Addendum page to learn more about this action.

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Sep
17
3:00 PM15:00
Monitoring Committee

Mackerel, Squid, Butterfish (MSB) Monitoring Committee Meeting

The Council’s Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish (MSB) Monitoring Committee will meet via webinar on Tuesday, September 17, 2024 from 3 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. (Updated from originally planned time)

The MSB Monitoring Committee will meet to discuss butterfish and Atlantic mackerel specifications.

Webinar Connection

  • Click here to join the webinar

  • Webex Meeting number: 2341 738 5448

    Password if needed: MJxByvtj436

    If joining by phone only: 415-655-0001 and use meeting number

Meeting Materials

  • Please see Atlantic mackerel materials on the September 2024 SSC Meeting page and butterfish materials on the July 2024 SSC Meeting page.

  • Agenda: The task of the Monitoring Committee is to make recommendations to ensure that the Annual Catch Limit (ACL) and other specifications are not exceeded, starting with the Acceptable Biological Catch (ABC) provided from the Scientific and Statistical Committee (SSC).

  • Atlantic mackerel is in a review year with previously-adopted level specifications for 2024/2025 and the SSC endorsed keeping the ABC level for 2025. Current measures are described here.

  • The Scientific and Statistical Committee (SSC) has provided butterfish ABCs for 2025/2026 of 17,115 metric tons (MT) and 13,842 (MT) respectively. Draft Butterfish Specifications Table

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Sep
17
1:00 PM13:00
Monitoring Committee

Spiny Dogfish Monitoring Committee Meeting

The Spiny Dogfish Monitoring Committee with meet via webinar on Tuesday, September 17th from 1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. to develop recommendations for future Spiny Dogfish specifications.

Staff contacts:

  • Jason Didden, jdidden@mafmc.org; 302-526-5254

Webinar Connection

  • Click here to join the webinar

  • Webex Meeting number: 2330 179 5299

    Password if needed: chSbDY2SB52

    If joining by phone only: 415-655-0001 and use meeting number

Meeting Materials

  • Please see spiny dogfish materials on the September 2024 SSC Meeting page

  • Agenda: The task of the Monitoring Committee is to make recommendations to ensure that the Annual Catch Limit (ACL) and other specifications are not exceeded, starting with the Acceptable Biological Catch (ABC) provided from the Scientific and Statistical Committee (SSC). To complete this task the following must be identified:

    • How much to set aside for Canadian landings/catch?

      • This results in the U.S. ACL

    • How much of a management uncertainty buffer is needed?

      • This results in the Annual Catch Target (ACT)

    • How much to set aside for discards?

      • This results in the Total Allowable Landings (TAL)

    • How much to set aside for recreational landings?

      • This results in the commercial quota.

  • The Scientific and Statistical Committee (SSC) has provided ABCs for 2025/2026 of either 7,230 metric tons (MT) for both years or 7,031 MT for 2025 and 7,446 MT for 2026.

  • Draft Specifications Table

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Sep
16
6:00 PM18:00
Public Hearing, Public Comment

Public Hearing #1: Summer Flounder Commercial Mesh Exemptions Framework/Addendum

The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission has scheduled two virtual public hearings to gather input on the Summer Flounder Commercial Mesh Exemptions Framework/Addendum. Although the Council’s framework development process does not include public hearings, all public comments provided during the Commission’s comment period will be considered by both groups before taking final action.

Written comments will be accepted through September 28, 2024. Please see the Commission’s press release for comment instructions.

Visit the Council’s Summer Flounder Commercial Mesh Size Exemptions Framework/Addendum page to learn more about this action.

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Sep
9
1:00 PM13:00
FMAT Meeting

Summer Flounder, Scup, Black Sea Bass, and Bluefish Recreational Measures Setting Process Framework/Addenda FMAT/PDT Meeting

The Summer Flounder, Scup, Black Sea Bass, and Bluefish Recreational Measures Setting Process Framework/Addenda Fishery Management Action Team (FMAT) / Plan Development Team (PDT) will hold a meeting via webinar on Monday, September 9, 2024 from 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.

The FMAT/PDT and Work Group will discuss several aspects of the Recreational Measures Setting Process Framework/Addenda.

Webinar Connection

  • Click here to join the Webex meeting. If prompted, enter meeting number 2347 968 8039.

  • Please connect your audio through your computer, telephone, or other device by following the prompts that appear after opening the webinar. If you must join by phone only, you may dial 1-415-655-0001 and enter access code/meeting number 2347 968 8039. Please only use this option if you are not connecting to the webinar on your computer or other device.

Meeting Materials

About FMAT/PDT Meetings

This will be a working meeting of the FMAT/PDT. Members of the public may listen to this meeting, but should not expect to participate in the discussion unless the meeting chair invites input during a specified public comment period. FMAT/PDT working documents will not be shared. The work of the FMAT/PDT, including meeting summaries, will be shared and considered during Council/Policy Board meetings, during which public comments are encouraged.

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Sep
5
1:00 PM13:00
Stock Assessment

Longfin Inshore Squid Research Track Working Group Meeting

This is one in a series of working group meetings associated with the Longfin Inshore Squid Research Track Assessment. Please visit the Longfin Inshore Squid Research Track Working Group page on the NOAA Fisheries website for an agenda and webinar connection details (scroll down to the “Schedule” section). This meeting is open to the public.

Background Information

Research track assessments evaluate new datasets that can either inform or be used in new or existing stock assessment models. Unlike management track assessments, which are driven by the need to meet specific management timelines, research track assessments are carried out over longer time frames and with fewer requirements for using the most recent data. The research track is intended to be the opportunity for extensive and comprehensive research and analysis.

Working groups carry out the analytical work required for the stock assessment, including developing and implementing the research plan and terms of reference, conducting the necessary research, compiling the results to inform the research track effort, and incorporating other information and public input as appropriate.

What Happens Next?

After the working group has completed its work, a peer review panel will be convened to conduct a comprehensive review of the research track assessment.

Typically, research track outputs are incorporated into future management track assessments (as opposed to directly informing management decisions). For this reason, research track assessments are often scheduled to have management track assessments in the following year, which ensures immediate application of the research results with the inclusion of the most recent data in a management track assessment.

Quick Links

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