Maine DMR Scallop Meetings To Gather Fishermen’s Input On Management Plan
DMR is in the process of rebuilding Maine’s scallop resource and an integral part of the rebuilding strategy has been the implementation ofclosed areas. After being in place for three years, these closures will sunset this year and a new rotational management plan is being proposedby DMR to create a more predictable and profitable fishery. The proposal includes phased in rolling closures designed with industry input, a mid-plan assessment and evaluation, and the flexible use of “Emergency Closures” when warranted.
In early April, the DMR held a series of regional meetings to gather fishermen’s input and feedback on the newly developed rotational management proposal. Following these meetings, the Scallop Advisory Council (SAC) discussed the proposal along with the industry's comments and voted unanimously to recommend that the DMR move forward with the development of the plan with industry input.
The next step in the process will be a series of eight (8) smaller, local meetings across the state to gather fishermen’s input into the development of the rotational management plan. Results from these meetings will be reviewed and considered by the SAC at their next meeting which is scheduled for Thursday, June 21st in Ellsworth at 1:00pm at Ellsworth City Hall. You’re attendance at one of these local meetings is encouraged to ensure you have a say in the future management of this resource.
• Milbridge Area:
Monday, May 21, 10am-1pm
Milbridge Town Hall
• Cobscook Bay:
Monday, May 21, 3pm-6pm
Whiting Town Hall
• Western Maine, Casco Bay:
Tuesday, May 22, 6-9pm
Casco Bay Lines, Portland
• Western Maine, Sheepscot to Western Penobscot:
Thursday, May 24, 3-6pm
Rockland Ferry Terminal
• MDI Area:
Thursday, May 31, 5-8pm
Ellsworth City Hall
• Machias/Bucks Harbor/Cutler:
Tuesday, June 5, 10:30 am-1:30pm,
Washington Academy, 66 High Street, East Machias
• Jonesport/Beals Island:
Tuesday, June 5, 4-7pm,
Jonesport High School, Jonesport
• Eastern Penobscot Bay:
Monday, June 11, 6-9pm,
Penobscot East Resource Center, 13 Atlantic Ave., Stonington
Next Scallop Advisory Council Meeting
Thursday, June 21, 1-5pm, Ellsworth City Hall, Ellsworth.
For more information about the DMR Rotational Management Proposal, please click on the following link: http://www.maine.gov/dmr/rm/scallops/index.htm
Monkfish Control Date Set
NOAA announces that at the request of the the New England and Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Councils, May 9, 2012 has been established as the ‘‘control date’’ for the monkfish fishery.
This date may be used as a reference date for future management measures related to the maintenance of a fishery with characteristics consistent with the Councils’ objectives and applicable Federal laws.
Written comments must be received on or before 5 p.m., local time, June 8, 2012.