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Hello Menhaden Stakeholders

The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission has approved Draft Addendum I to the Menhaden Fishery Management Plan for public comment. The Draft Addendum considers changes to: 1) commercial allocation between the Atlantic coast jurisdictions; 2) the episodic events set aside program; and 3) the incidental catch and small-scale fisheries provision.  

This is an important opportunity for stakeholders in Maine to provide comments on the future of the menhaden fishery. Maine will be hosting two in-person hearings on September 13th and September 20th to collect public comment on this Draft Addendum.

What is in the Draft Addendum?

A copy of Draft Addendum I can be found HERE.

The Draft Addendum aims to align state quotas with recent landings and resource availability while maintaining access to the resource for all states, reducing dependence on quota transfers, and minimizing regulatory discards. There are three areas where the Draft Addendum considers changes:

  • Commercial allocation between the states. Maine's current quota is 0.52% and is based on landings from 2009-2011 but options in this document consider different allocation formulas which could increase Maine's commercial quota. 
  • The percentage of quota allocated to the episodic events set aside program. Currently 1% of the coastwide total allowable catch (TAC) is set aide for episodic events but options in this document could increase that percentage to up to 5%. 
  • The incidental catch and small-scale fisheries provision, which many fishermen may recognize at the 6,000 pound fishery. The document considers reducing the trip limit, narrowing the eligible gear types (including eliminating purse seines from the provision), and implementing triggers if catch exceeds the TAC. 

How can I comment?

The comment period is open from now until September 30.

Maine will be hosting two in-person public hearings:

  • September 13, 2022 at 6:00PM: DMR HQ, Marquardt Bldg, Rm 118, 32 Blossom Lane, Augusta ME
  • September 20, 2022 at 5:00PM: Jeff's Catering & Event Center, 15 Event Center Way, Brewer, ME 

Written comment can also be submitted to ASMFC:

  • Email: [email protected] (subject line: Atlantic Menhaden Draft Addendum I)
  • Mail: James Boyle, Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, 1050 N. Highland St., Suite 200A-N, Arlington, VA 22201

If you cannot attend one of Maine's in-person hearings, stakeholders are encouraged to attend a webinar hearing hosted by another state on September 7, 8, 26, or 27. To register for a webinar public hearing, click HERE.

Where can I learn more?

DMR has created a webpage with additional information on the Draft Addendum which can be found HERE. 

Information on the webpage includes: a copy of the draft addendum, the public hearing schedule, tables regarding recent landings, and a FAQ on what makes an effective public comment. 

 

A copy of the ASMFC press release can be found HERE.

For additional questions about Draft Addendum I, please contact Megan Ware or Melissa Smith at ME DMR

 

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