The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council and the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (Commission) have scheduled a series of scoping hearings to gather public input on the range of issues and information to be considered in the Recreational Sector Separation and Data Collection Amendment to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery Management Plan (FMP) and the Bluefish FMP. Five scoping hearings will be held between February 25 and March 5, 2025. Written comments will be accepted through March 20, 2025.

• Hearing Announcement

• Public Information/Scoping Document

• Submit Written Comments

• Scoping Hearing Slides

• Scoping Presentation Recording

Hearing Details

For a complete schedule of hearings, please see the Scoping Hearing Announcement.

This hearing will be conducted via webinar only. To register, click the link below and select the hearing(s) you plan to attend from the dropdown menu.

• Webinar Registration

Hearing Contacts:

• Corrin Flora (ME) - 207.446.8126

• Renee Zobel (NH) - 603.868.1095

• Nichola Meserve (MA) - 978.619.0017

Webinar Instructions: When connecting to audio, we strongly encourage you to use your computer’s microphone and speakers (VoIP) so you can ask questions and provide comments. To attend the webinar in listen only mode, dial 415.655.0052 and enter access code 724-084-791. Those joining by phone only will be limited to listening to the presentation and will not be able to provide input. If you are new to GoToWebinar, you can download the software by clicking here or via the App store under GoTo. Before joining, we recommend testing your device’s compatibility with the webinar. If you need assistance, please contact the Commission at info@asmfc.org (subject line: GoToWebinar help).

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council and the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (Commission) have scheduled a series of scoping hearings to gather public input on the range of issues and information to be considered in the Recreational Sector Separation and Data Collection Amendment to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery Management Plan (FMP) and the Bluefish FMP. Five scoping hearings will be held between February 25 and March 5, 2025. Written comments will be accepted through March 20, 2025.

• Hearing Announcement

• Public Information/Scoping Document

• Submit Written Comments

• Scoping Hearing Slides

• Scoping Presentation Recording

Hearing Details

For a complete schedule of hearings, please see the Scoping Hearing Announcement.

This hearing will be conducted via webinar only. To register, click the link below and select the hearing(s) you plan to attend from the dropdown menu.

• Webinar Registration

Hearing Contacts:

• John Clark (DE) 302.739.9914

• Mike Luisi (MD) 410.260.8341

• Ron Owens (PRFC) 804.224.7148

• Pat Geer (VA) 757.247.2200

• Chris Batsavage (NC) 252.241.2995

Webinar Instructions: When connecting to audio, we strongly encourage you to use your computer’s microphone and speakers (VoIP) so you can ask questions and provide comments. To attend the webinar in listen only mode, dial 415.655.0052 and enter access code 724-084-791. Those joining by phone only will be limited to listening to the presentation and will not be able to provide input. If you are new to GoToWebinar, you can download the software by clicking here or via the App store under GoTo. Before joining, we recommend testing your device’s compatibility with the webinar. If you need assistance, please contact the Commission at info@asmfc.org (subject line: GoToWebinar help).

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council and the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (Commission) have scheduled a series of scoping hearings to gather public input on the range of issues and information to be considered in the Recreational Sector Separation and Data Collection Amendment to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery Management Plan (FMP) and the Bluefish FMP. Five scoping hearings will be held between February 25 and March 5, 2025. Written comments will be accepted through March 20, 2025.

• Hearing Announcement

• Public Information/Scoping Document

• Submit Written Comments

• Scoping Hearing Slides

• Scoping Presentation Recording

Hearing Details

For a complete schedule of hearings, please see the Scoping Hearing Announcement.

This will be a hybrid hearing, with in-person and virtual participation options. To register for the webinar, click the link below and select the hearing(s) you plan to attend from the dropdown menu.

• Webinar Registration (Zoom) (Meeting ID: 861 5076 1946; Passcode: 483668; if calling in dial 646-931-3860)

Hearing Contacts: Jason McNamee 401.537.4141

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council and the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (Commission) have scheduled a series of scoping hearings to gather public input on the range of issues and information to be considered in the Recreational Sector Separation and Data Collection Amendment to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery Management Plan (FMP) and the Bluefish FMP. Five scoping hearings will be held between February 25 and March 5, 2025. Written comments will be accepted through March 20, 2025.

• Hearing Announcement

• Public Information/Scoping Document

• Submit Written Comments

• Scoping Hearing Slides

• Scoping Presentation Recording

Hearing Details

For a complete schedule of hearings, please see the Scoping Hearing Announcement.

This will be a hybrid hearing, with in-person and virtual participation options. To register for the webinar, click the link below and select the hearing(s) you plan to attend from the dropdown menu.

• Webinar Registration

Hearing Contacts: Martin Gary (NY), 631.444.0430; Matthew Gates (CT), 860.876.4393

Webinar Instructions: When connecting to audio, we strongly encourage you to use your computer’s microphone and speakers (VoIP) so you can ask questions and provide comments. To attend the webinar in listen only mode, dial 415.655.0052 and enter access code 724-084-791. Those joining by phone only will be limited to listening to the presentation and will not be able to provide input. If you are new to GoToWebinar, you can download the software by clicking here or via the App store under GoTo. Before joining, we recommend testing your device’s compatibility with the webinar. If you need assistance, please contact the Commission at info@asmfc.org (subject line: GoToWebinar help).

The Northeast Fisheries Science Center (NEFSC) is seeking input from the fishing community and other interested parties to help inform the June 2026 Management Track Assessments for the following stocks:

• Atlantic herring 

• Butterfish

• Georges Bank Atlantic cod 

• Georges Bank haddock 

• Longfin inshore squid 

• Ocean quahog

Specifically, assessment scientists are looking for on-the-water observations or data sets on topics such as distribution, stock health, fishing dynamics and management, and the role these stocks play in the ecosystem. Comments are welcome from all regional assessment partners, including the fishing industry (commercial and recreational), state agency scientists, academic researchers, and interested members of the public.

There are two ways to participate:

• Attend the virtual Community Input Meeting on February 26, 2025 at 9:00 a.m. 

• Submit your comments using the community input form. This form is open through April 30, 2025.

Questions?

Contact: Brian Hooper, NEFSC assessment process lead

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council and the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (Commission) have scheduled a series of scoping hearings to gather public input on the range of issues and information to be considered in the Recreational Sector Separation and Data Collection Amendment to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery Management Plan (FMP) and the Bluefish FMP. Five scoping hearings will be held between February 25 and March 5, 2025. Written comments will be accepted through March 20, 2025.

• Hearing Announcement

• Public Information/Scoping Document

• Submit Written Comments

• Scoping Hearing Slides

• Scoping Presentation Recording

Hearing Details

For a complete schedule of hearings, please see the Scoping Hearing Announcement.

This hearing will be conducted via webinar only. To register, click the link below and select the hearing(s) you plan to attend from the dropdown menu.

• Webinar Registration

Hearing Contact: Joseph Cimino - 609.748.2020

Webinar Instructions: When connecting to audio, we strongly encourage you to use your computer’s microphone and speakers (VoIP) so you can ask questions and provide comments. To attend the webinar in listen only mode, dial 415.655.0052 and enter access code 724-084-791. Those joining by phone only will be limited to listening to the presentation and will not be able to provide input. If you are new to GoToWebinar, you can download the software by clicking here or via the App store under GoTo. Before joining, we recommend testing your device’s compatibility with the webinar. If you need assistance, please contact the Commission at info@asmfc.org (subject line: GoToWebinar help).

The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission has scheduled a series of public hearings to gather input on the Recreational Measures Setting Process Framework/Draft Addenda. 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.

This hearing will be conducted by webinar.

• Hearing Details

Documents

• Draft Addenda to the FMPs for Bluefish, and Summer Flounder, Scup and Black Sea Bass: Harvest Control Rule for Recreational Management

Background Information

• ASMFC Releases Recreational Measures Setting Process Draft Addenda for Public Comment States to Conduct Public Hearings in January

• MAFMC Action Page

The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission has scheduled a series of public hearings to gather input on the Recreational Measures Setting Process Framework/Draft Addenda. 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.

This hearing will be conducted by webinar.

• Hearing Details

Documents

• Draft Addenda to the FMPs for Bluefish, and Summer Flounder, Scup and Black Sea Bass: Harvest Control Rule for Recreational Management

Background Information

• ASMFC Releases Recreational Measures Setting Process Draft Addenda for Public Comment States to Conduct Public Hearings in January

• MAFMC Action Page

The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission has scheduled a series of public hearings to gather input on the Recreational Measures Setting Process Framework/Draft Addenda. 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.

This is a hybrid meeting (both in-person and virtual).

• Hearing Details

Documents

• Draft Addenda to the FMPs for Bluefish, and Summer Flounder, Scup and Black Sea Bass: Harvest Control Rule for Recreational Management

Background Information

• ASMFC Releases Recreational Measures Setting Process Draft Addenda for Public Comment States to Conduct Public Hearings in January

• MAFMC Action Page

The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission has scheduled a series of public hearings to gather input on the Recreational Measures Setting Process Framework/Draft Addenda. 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.

• Hearing Details

Documents

• Draft Addenda to the FMPs for Bluefish, and Summer Flounder, Scup and Black Sea Bass: Harvest Control Rule for Recreational Management

Background Information

• ASMFC Releases Recreational Measures Setting Process Draft Addenda for Public Comment States to Conduct Public Hearings in January

• MAFMC Action Page

The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission has scheduled a series of public hearings to gather input on the Recreational Measures Setting Process Framework/Draft Addenda. 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.

This hearing will be conducted by webinar.

• Hearing Details

Documents

• Draft Addenda to the FMPs for Bluefish, and Summer Flounder, Scup and Black Sea Bass: Harvest Control Rule for Recreational Management

Background Information

• ASMFC Releases Recreational Measures Setting Process Draft Addenda for Public Comment States to Conduct Public Hearings in January

• MAFMC Action Page

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

• Mid-Atlantic Port Meeting Flyer

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

• Mid-Atlantic Port Meeting Flyer

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

• Mid-Atlantic Port Meeting Flyer

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

• Mid-Atlantic Port Meeting Flyer

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.

• Register for the Webinar

  • Update 9/17/24: The webinar has concluded. A recording of the hearing presentation is available on the Commission’s YouTube channel.

• Public Hearing Document

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.

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.

• Register for the Webinar

• Public Hearing Document

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.

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council is seeking public input to inform development of its next strategic plan. Interested parties are encouraged to provide input during a public webinar on Tuesday, August 20, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. Written comments may also be submitted via a public comment form or by email to msabo@mafmc.org. All comments must be received by Wednesday, September 4, 2024.

The Council’s strategic plan provides a framework for prioritizing activities from year to year and ensuring steady progress toward long-term goals. The current plan will expire at the end of 2024. The Council is now soliciting public input to help shape the next plan for 2025 through 2029.

This is an important opportunity for the public to help shape the future management of Mid-Atlantic fisheries. The Council welcomes feedback on its performance relative to the 2020-2024 Strategic Plan as well as recommendations for priority issues to be addressed in the next plan for 2025-2029.

The Council is scheduled to review public comments and consider a draft strategic plan at its October 2024 Council Meeting.

• Presentation and Discussion Questions

Discussion Questions

• Where are we now?

  • In your view, how well has the Council achieved the goals, objectives, and strategies of the 2020-2024 Strategic Plan?

  • What do you believe are the most pressing issues/challenges facing the Mid-Atlantic Council and/or its managed fisheries?

• Where are we going?

  • What would you like to see the Council accomplish within the next five years?

  • What should our long-term goals be?

• How do we get there?

  • What are the actionable steps we can take to achieve our long-term goals?

Questions? Contact Mary Sabo at msabo@mafmc.org or 302-526-5261.

Quick Links

• Register for the Webinar

• Submit Written Comments

• Review the Current Strategic Plan (2020-2024)

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council is seeking public input on potential modifications to the Summer Flounder Small Mesh Exemption Program and the flynet exemption from the summer flounder minimum mesh size requirements. Interested stakeholders are invited to provide comments during a webinar to be held on April 2, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. The Council is particularly interested in input from participants in commercial trawl fisheries who utilize the Small Mesh Exemption Program and/or flynet exemption.

The Council is considering these changes through a joint framework action/addendum being developed jointly with the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission’s Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Board (Board). The Council and Board are seeking comments to inform their consideration of a draft range of alternatives at their April 2024 joint meeting.

Meeting Materials

• Draft Alternatives Quick Reference Guide and Public Webinar Discussion Questions

• Framework/Addendum Action Plan as of March 2024

• Meeting Materials and Discussion Document for April 2024 Council and Board meeting

• Staff Presentation

Which Regulations are Being Considered Through this Action?

• Small Mesh Exemption Program Area Revisions: The Small Mesh Exemption Program  currently allows trawl vessels to obtain a Letter of Authorization (LOA) to land more than 200 pounds of summer flounder east of longitude 72° 30.0'W, from November 1 through April 30, using mesh smaller than 5.5-inch diamond or 6.0-inch square. The Council and Board will consider modifications to the boundaries of the exempted area, including evaluating suggested revisions made by fishing industry representatives during the Fall 2023 review process for this exemption.

• Flynet Exemption Gear Definition Updates: Current regulations provide an exemption to the minimum mesh size requirements for vessels fishing with a two-seam otter trawl flynet. Through this action, the Council and Board will consider modifying the regulatory definition of a flynet in light of changes in the use and configuration of commercial trawl gear since this exemption was put in place in the 1990s.

Additional background and context for the action is available on the action webpage  Summer Flounder Commercial Mesh Size Exemptions Framework/Addendum.

Webinar Connection:

Registration in advance of the webinar is requested but not required.

• Register for the Webinar Here

To Provide Written Comments or For More Information

Written comments can be emailed to Kiley Dancy at kdancy@mafmc.org, and will be included in the Council and Board’s April meeting materials if received by 5p.m. on Thursday, April 4, 2024. Please contact Kiley for more information, or visit the Summer Flounder Commercial Mesh Size Exemptions Framework/Addendum action page.

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council will hold a public webinar on Wednesday, November 1, from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m., to solicit stakeholder input on several summer flounder regulations related to commercial minimum mesh sizes and their exemptions. Council staff and a contractor are currently evaluating whether modifications to these measures are needed. Feedback from fishing industry participants and other stakeholders is critical to a successful review of these regulations. The Council and Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission’s Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Management Board will review public comments and consider next steps at their December 2023 joint meeting.

Which Regulations are Under Review?

• Summer flounder trawl gear minimum mesh sizes (5.5-inch diamond or 6.0-inch square). Based on a recent study there is some concern that the selectivity of the 6.0” square mesh is not equivalent to that of the 5.5” diamond mesh and the 6.0” square mesh may be retaining too many undersized fish.

• The Small Mesh Exemption Program (SMEP), which allows trawl vessels to obtain a Letter of Authorization (LOA) to land more than 200 pounds of summer flounder east of longitude 72° 30.0'W, from November 1 through April 30, using mesh smaller than 5.5-inch diamond or 6.0-inch square.

• The flynet exemption to the minimum mesh size requirement, which provides an exemption to the minimum mesh size requirements for vessels fishing with a two-seam otter trawl flynet.

Please see the Overview of Summer Flounder Minimum Mesh Size Requirements and Exemptions for additional information and discussion questions for each issue.

Who Should Attend This Webinar or Provide Written Comments?

Any stakeholder with an interest in these measures is invited to attend the webinar and/or submit written comments. The Council is particularly seeking input from:

• Participants in the commercial trawl fishery for summer flounder (all states and areas).

• Participants in commercial trawl fisheries for summer flounder and/or other species who utilize the Small Mesh Exemption Program and/or flynet exemption.

Meeting Materials

• Agenda

• Overview of Summer Flounder Minimum Mesh Size Requirements and Exemptions 

• Presentation

Webinar Details

Click here to join the webinar

To join the webinar by phone only, dial 1-415-655-0001 and enter Access code: 2357 476 2725. 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.

Written Comment Instructions

Written comments will be accepted until November 17, 2023. Comments may be submitted through an online comment form or emailed to Kiley Dancy or Hannah Hart.

Staff Contacts

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

• Kiley Dancy - kdancy@mafmc.org, (302) 526-5257

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council will host a public webinar on Monday, October 16, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., to collect public comments on NOAA Fisheries’ draft procedural directive titled “Guidance on Council Authority for Preparing Fishery Management Plans for Stocks that May Extend across the Geographic Areas of more than one Council, pursuant to MSA §304(f).” Any comments provided during the webinar or submitted to the Council in writing (see below for instructions) will be compiled and submitted to NOAA Fisheries.

• Staff Presentation

Webinar Information

The webinar will be hosted by the Council on the Webex meeting platform. No pre-registration is required.

• Date and Time: October 16, 2023, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.

• Webinar Link: Click here to join the webinar (if prompted, enter access code: 2341 187 1059 and password: uDYWF5pvq53). To join by phone only, dial 415-655-0001 and enter access code 2341 187 1059.

Submit Written Comments

Written comments can be submitted to the Council using the Online Comment Form or by email to Mary Sabo at msabo@mafmc.org. Comments must be submitted to the Council by November 10 to be compiled and transmitted to NOAA Fisheries prior to the comment deadline. Comments may also be submitted directly to NOAA Fisheries by email to marian.macpherson@noaa.gov.

Background Information

The draft procedural directive, which has also been referred to as the “Climate Governance Policy,” is intended to provide guidance on when and how the Secretary will review and assign, or re-assign, management authority over fisheries found across more than one Council jurisdiction. NOAA Fisheries has stated that additional guidance is needed to address governance issues associated with climate-related shifts in stock distributions. Given the Mid-Atlantic Council’s shared regional boundaries with two other East coast Councils, as well as the number of Mid-Atlantic stocks that extend beyond the Council region boundaries, this policy has the potential to directly impact a number of Mid-Atlantic Council fishery management plans. 

NOAA Fisheries is accepting public comments on the draft procedural directive until November 17, 2023. The eight regional fishery management councils have submitted a joint comment letter which identifies a number of  concerns regarding the draft procedural directive. The Mid-Atlantic Council is currently developing a separate letter which will include additional comments specific to the Mid-Atlantic region. The Council’s Scientific and Statistical Committee has also reviewed and provided comments on the draft procedural directive.

Although NOAA Fisheries is solely responsible for the development and potential revision of this procedural directive, the Council is conducting this supplemental outreach effort to ensure that all interested individuals have an opportunity to provide comment on this important issue.

Learn More

Additional information and related documents are available at https://www.mafmc.org/actions/nmfs-climate-governance-policy. For questions about the Council webinar, please contact Mary Sabo at msabo@mafmc.org or 302-526-5261.

On Sept. 27, 2923, from 2:00 – 3:00pm eastern time, NOAA Fisheries will conduct a public webinar to provide information on the agency’s development of a procedural directive to guide the agency in future application of section 304(f) of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (MSA).  The deadline for submission of feedback on this project is COB November 17, 2023.

Webinar Registration

Please register in advance for this webinar.  Once you are registered, the URL and password will be sent to you by email.

Background

In anticipation of an increasing number of fish stocks shifting in geographic distribution, new fisheries emerging, and other demographic shifts in fisheries, NOAA Fisheries has identified a need to set forth a consistent and transparent plan for identifying the geographic scope of fisheries and determining which Regional Fishery Management Council(s) (Council) will be responsible for fisheries that extend or have moved beyond the geographical area of authority of any one Council, including those that move, across Council boundaries.  The draft procedural directive is available here:  Draft Procedural Directive on 304(f).

Submit Comments

NOAA Fisheries will accept public input during the webinar and will also accept written feedback submitted prior to COB November 17, 2023.  NOAA Fisheries does not plan to develop formal responses to comments.  Written comments may be submitted to Marian.Macpherson@noaa.gov.

Mid-Atlantic Council Comments on the Draft Policy

Given the Mid-Atlantic Council’s shared regional boundaries with two other East coast Councils, as well as the number of Mid-Atlantic stocks that extend beyond the Council region boundaries, this procedural directive has the potential to directly impact a number of Mid-Atlantic Council fishery management plans. The Mid-Atlantic Council is currently developing comments on the draft policy. Learn more here.

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council has released its Draft 2020-2024 Strategic Plan for public review and comment. The plan includes updated vision and mission statements and proposes five major goals to guide the Council’s activities and management priorities for the next five years. Development of the plan was informed by public input provided through a survey and outreach meetings in early 2019.

The Draft Strategic Plan is available on the Council’s website here. All interested stakeholders and members of the public are invited to provide comments on the draft plan.

Strategic Plan Webinars

The Council will hold two public input webinars during which participants will have an opportunity to ask questions and offer public comments on the draft strategic plan. The webinars will be held on the following dates:

1. Tuesday, November 12, 2019 at 6:00 p.m.

2. Wednesday, November 13, 2019 at 10:00 a.m.

Connection information for both meetings will be posted at www.mafmc.org/council-events.

To join the webinars, go to: http://mafmc.adobeconnect.com/mafmc-strategic-plan/. Meeting audio can also be accessed via telephone by dialing 1-800-832-0736 and entering room number 2122298.

Submit Written Comments

Written comments may also be submitted by any of the following methods:

1. ONLINE at http://www.mafmc.org/comments/2020-2024-strategic-plan

2. EMAIL to michelleduval22@gmail.com

3. MAIL to Dr. Chris Moore, Executive Director, Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, 800 North State Street, Suite 201, Dover, DE 19901

4. FAX to 302.674.5399

Please include “Strategic Plan Comments” in the subject line if using email or fax or on the outside of the envelope if submitting comments by mail.

Comments must be submitted by Friday, November 15, 11:59 EST. The Council will review public comments and approve the final plan at its December meeting in Annapolis, MD.

For additional information and background documents, please visit www.mafmc.org/strategic-plan or contact Michelle Duval at michelleduval22@gmail.com or 919-601-3798.

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council has released its Draft 2020-2024 Strategic Plan for public review and comment. The plan includes updated vision and mission statements and proposes five major goals to guide the Council’s activities and management priorities for the next five years. Development of the plan was informed by public input provided through a survey and outreach meetings in early 2019.

The Draft Strategic Plan is available on the Council’s website here. All interested stakeholders and members of the public are invited to provide comments on the draft plan.

Strategic Plan Webinars

The Council will hold two public input webinars during which participants will have an opportunity to ask questions and offer public comments on the draft strategic plan. The webinars will be held on the following dates:

1. Tuesday, November 12, 2019 at 6:00 p.m.

2. Wednesday, November 13, 2019 at 10:00 a.m.

Connection information for both meetings will be posted at www.mafmc.org/council-events.

To join the webinars, go to: http://mafmc.adobeconnect.com/mafmc-strategic-plan/. Meeting audio can also be accessed via telephone by dialing 1-800-832-0736 and entering room number 2122298.

Submit Written Comments

Written comments may also be submitted by any of the following methods:

1. ONLINE at http://www.mafmc.org/comments/2020-2024-strategic-plan

2. EMAIL to michelleduval22@gmail.com

3. MAIL to Dr. Chris Moore, Executive Director, Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, 800 North State Street, Suite 201, Dover, DE 19901

4. FAX to 302.674.5399

Please include “Strategic Plan Comments” in the subject line if using email or fax or on the outside of the envelope if submitting comments by mail.

Comments must be submitted by Friday, November 15, 11:59 EST. The Council will review public comments and approve the final plan at its December meeting in Annapolis, MD.

For additional information and background documents, please visit www.mafmc.org/strategic-plan or contact Michelle Duval at michelleduval22@gmail.com or 919-601-3798.

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council will hold four public hearings in August and September 2019 to solicit public input on the Atlantic Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Excessive Shares Amendment. The Council is also soliciting written comments on the amendment through September 14, 2019.

The Excessive Shares Amendment considers a variety of approaches to ensure that no individual, corporation, or other entity acquires an excessive share of the Atlantic surfclam and ocean quahog individual transferrable quota (ITQ) privileges. In addition, this action includes measures to revise the process for specifying multi-year management measures, require periodic review of the excessive share cap level, and allow adjustments to be made under the frameworkable provisions of the FMP. Lastly, this action may also revise the management objectives for the Atlantic Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Fishery Management Plan.

Additional information is available at http://www.mafmc.org/actions/scoq-excessive-shares-amendment. A public hearing document is available HERE.

Attend a Hearing

Public hearings will be held on the following dates:

1. Thursday, August 1, 2019 at 6:30PM:  The Grand Hotel. 1045 Beach Avenue, Cape May, NJ 08204; telephone: (609) 884-5611.

2. Wednesday, August 7, 2019 at 6:30PM:  Internet webinar. Connection information to be posted at www.mafmc.org/council-events prior to the meeting.

3. Monday, September 9, 2019 at 6:30PM:  LaQuinta Inns & Suites, 300 S. Salisbury Blvd., Salisbury, MD 21801; telephone: (410) 546-4400.

4. Tuesday, September 10, 2019 at 6:30PM:  Radisson Hotel Providence Airport. 2081 Post Rd, Warwick, RI 02886; telephone: (401) 739-3000.

Submit Written Comments:

In addition to providing comments at any of the public hearings, you may submit written comments by 11:59 PM, Eastern Standard Time, on September 14, 2019. Written comments may be sent by any of the following methods:

1. ONLINE at http://www.mafmc.org/comments/scoq-excessive-shares-amendment;

2. EMAIL to jmontanez@mafmc.org;

3. MAIL to Dr. Christopher Moore, Executive Director, Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, 800 North State Street, Suite 201, Dover, Delaware 19901; or

4. FAX to (302) 674-5399.

Please include “SCOQ Excessive Shares Amendment Comments” in the subject line if using email or fax or on the outside of the envelope if submitting written comments.

Please direct any questions about the amendment to José Montañez, jmontanez@mafmc.org, (302) 526-5258.

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council will hold four public hearings in August and September 2019 to solicit public input on the Atlantic Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Excessive Shares Amendment. The Council is also soliciting written comments on the amendment through September 14, 2019.

The Excessive Shares Amendment considers a variety of approaches to ensure that no individual, corporation, or other entity acquires an excessive share of the Atlantic surfclam and ocean quahog individual transferrable quota (ITQ) privileges. In addition, this action includes measures to revise the process for specifying multi-year management measures, require periodic review of the excessive share cap level, and allow adjustments to be made under the frameworkable provisions of the FMP. Lastly, this action may also revise the management objectives for the Atlantic Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Fishery Management Plan.

Additional information is available at http://www.mafmc.org/actions/scoq-excessive-shares-amendment. A public hearing document is available HERE.

Attend a Hearing

Public hearings will be held on the following dates:

1. Thursday, August 1, 2019 at 6:30PM:  The Grand Hotel. 1045 Beach Avenue, Cape May, NJ 08204; telephone: (609) 884-5611.

2. Wednesday, August 7, 2019 at 6:30PM:  Internet webinar. Connection information to be posted at www.mafmc.org/council-events prior to the meeting.

3. Monday, September 9, 2019 at 6:30PM:  LaQuinta Inns & Suites, 300 S. Salisbury Blvd., Salisbury, MD 21801; telephone: (410) 546-4400.

4. Tuesday, September 10, 2019 at 6:30PM:  Radisson Hotel Providence Airport. 2081 Post Rd, Warwick, RI 02886; telephone: (401) 739-3000.

Submit Written Comments:

In addition to providing comments at any of the public hearings, you may submit written comments by 11:59 PM, Eastern Standard Time, on September 14, 2019. Written comments may be sent by any of the following methods:

1. ONLINE at http://www.mafmc.org/comments/scoq-excessive-shares-amendment;

2. EMAIL to jmontanez@mafmc.org;

3. MAIL to Dr. Christopher Moore, Executive Director, Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, 800 North State Street, Suite 201, Dover, Delaware 19901; or

4. FAX to (302) 674-5399.

Please include “SCOQ Excessive Shares Amendment Comments” in the subject line if using email or fax or on the outside of the envelope if submitting written comments.

Please direct any questions about the amendment to José Montañez, jmontanez@mafmc.org, (302) 526-5258.

The meeting will be held via webinar at http://mafmc.adobeconnect.com/excessshareaug7/

Audio connection instructions will pop up when you enter the webinar. For audio-only access via phone, dial 1-800-832-0736 and enter Room Number 9294759.

If you have never attended an Adobe Connect meeting before: Test your connection: http://mafmc.adobeconnect.com/common/help/en/support/meeting_test.htm Get a quick overview: http://www.adobe.com/products/adobeconnect.html

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council will hold four public hearings in August and September 2019 to solicit public input on the Atlantic Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Excessive Shares Amendment. The Council is also soliciting written comments on the amendment through September 14, 2019.

The Excessive Shares Amendment considers a variety of approaches to ensure that no individual, corporation, or other entity acquires an excessive share of the Atlantic surfclam and ocean quahog individual transferrable quota (ITQ) privileges. In addition, this action includes measures to revise the process for specifying multi-year management measures, require periodic review of the excessive share cap level, and allow adjustments to be made under the frameworkable provisions of the FMP. Lastly, this action may also revise the management objectives for the Atlantic Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Fishery Management Plan.

Additional information is available at http://www.mafmc.org/actions/scoq-excessive-shares-amendment. A public hearing document is available HERE..

Attend a Hearing

Public hearings will be held on the following dates:

1. Thursday, August 1, 2019 at 6:30PM:  The Grand Hotel. 1045 Beach Avenue, Cape May, NJ 08204; telephone: (609) 884-5611.

2. Wednesday, August 7, 2019 at 6:30PM:  Internet webinar. Connection information will be posted on this page prior to the meeting.

3. Monday, September 9, 2019 at 6:30PM:  LaQuinta Inns & Suites, 300 S. Salisbury Blvd., Salisbury, MD 21801; telephone: (410) 546-4400.

4. Tuesday, September 10, 2019 at 6:30PM:  Radisson Hotel Providence Airport. 2081 Post Rd, Warwick, RI 02886; telephone: (401) 739-3000.

Submit Written Comments:

In addition to providing comments at any of the public hearings, you may submit written comments by 11:59 PM, Eastern Standard Time, on September 14, 2019. Written comments may be sent by any of the following methods:

1. ONLINE at http://www.mafmc.org/comments/scoq-excessive-shares-amendment;

2. EMAIL to jmontanez@mafmc.org;

3. MAIL to Dr. Christopher Moore, Executive Director, Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, 800 North State Street, Suite 201, Dover, Delaware 19901; or

4. FAX to (302) 674-5399.

Please include “SCOQ Excessive Shares Amendment Comments” in the subject line if using email or fax or on the outside of the envelope if submitting written comments.

Please direct any questions about the amendment to José Montañez, jmontanez@mafmc.org, (302) 526-5258.

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council will hold four public hearings in August and September 2019 to solicit public input on the Atlantic Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Excessive Shares Amendment. The Council is also soliciting written comments on the amendment through September 14, 2019.

The Excessive Shares Amendment considers a variety of approaches to ensure that no individual, corporation, or other entity acquires an excessive share of the Atlantic surfclam and ocean quahog individual transferrable quota (ITQ) privileges. In addition, this action includes measures to revise the process for specifying multi-year management measures, require periodic review of the excessive share cap level, and allow adjustments to be made under the frameworkable provisions of the FMP. Lastly, this action may also revise the management objectives for the Atlantic Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Fishery Management Plan.

Additional information is available at http://www.mafmc.org/actions/scoq-excessive-shares-amendment. A public hearing document is available HERE..

Attend a Hearing

Public hearings will be held on the following dates:

1. Thursday, August 1, 2019 at 6:30PM:  The Grand Hotel. 1045 Beach Avenue, Cape May, NJ 08204; telephone: (609) 884-5611.

2. Wednesday, August 7, 2019 at 6:30PM:  Internet webinar. Connection information to be posted at www.mafmc.org/council-events prior to the meeting.

3. Monday, September 9, 2019 at 6:30PM:  LaQuinta Inns & Suites, 300 S. Salisbury Blvd., Salisbury, MD 21801; telephone: (410) 546-4400.

4. Tuesday, September 10, 2019 at 6:30PM:  Radisson Hotel Providence Airport. 2081 Post Rd, Warwick, RI 02886; telephone: (401) 739-3000.

Submit Written Comments:

In addition to providing comments at any of the public hearings, you may submit written comments by 11:59 PM, Eastern Standard Time, on September 14, 2019. Written comments may be sent by any of the following methods:

1. ONLINE at http://www.mafmc.org/comments/scoq-excessive-shares-amendment;

2. EMAIL to jmontanez@mafmc.org;

3. MAIL to Dr. Christopher Moore, Executive Director, Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, 800 North State Street, Suite 201, Dover, Delaware 19901; or

4. FAX to (302) 674-5399.

Please include “SCOQ Excessive Shares Amendment Comments” in the subject line if using email or fax or on the outside of the envelope if submitting written comments.

Please direct any questions about the amendment to José Montañez, jmontanez@mafmc.org, (302) 526-5258.

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) will hold a meeting to get public feedback on the Saltonstall-Kennedy Grant Program. The meeting will be held via webinar on Friday, June 14, 2019 at 10:30 AM. 

The purpose of this meeting is to obtain public feedback and recommendations from fishing community constituents on ways to improve communications, dissemination, and utilization of results achieved through projects funded by the Saltonstall-Kennedy (S-K) Grant Program. Each year, S-K awards approximately $10 million to fisheries research and development projects (up to $300,000 per project). These projects are selected based on criteria used to determine how well they address the needs of fishing communities, demonstrate direct benefits to U.S. fishing industries (including both commercial and recreational fisheries), and involve fishing community participation.

• Feedback Session Announcement

Join the Webinar

The link to attend the feedback session is https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/891746301

If you prefer to have audio over the phone, you can dial in using your phone. The phone number is (669) 224-3412, Access Code: 891-746-301. If you are new to the GoToMeeting technology and would like to get the app/software beforehand, please select the following link: https://global.gotomeeting.com/install/891746301

Contact

• Cliff Cosgrove, S-K Program Manager (clifford.cosgrove@noaa.gov, 301-427-8736)

• Jorge Fraga (jfraga@jrdandassociates.com, 305-609-6175)

The Mid-Atlantic Council will hold a series of public meetings to seek additional feedback on the development of their 2020-2024 Strategic Plan. The public is invited to attend this meeting in Fort Monroe, VA to provide feedback on performance relative to the 2014-2018 Strategic Plan, as well as to identify recommendations, challenges, and opportunities for the next five years. In addition, participants will review preliminary results of the strategic planning stakeholder survey conducted earlier this year.

For more information on the development of the 2020-2024 Strategic Plan, click here.

Background Documents

• MAFMC 2020-2024 Strategic Plan Development Overview

• Presentation