December 20, 2024
Portland, Maine – Following months of advocacy by NEFSA on behalf of coastal communities, the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) announced the formation of a pilot program for a fishermen’s survey of the northern shrimp stock. The federal government closed the Gulf of Maine shrimp fisheries over a decade ago, decimating small, multigenerational businesses tied to shrimping. NEFSA spent months pushing ASMFC to authorize an alternative shrimp survey program, maintaining that faulty research methods on the part of federal bureaucrats have resulted in inaccurate stock assessments.
“It is in the best interest of all fishermen to come together and help with this data collection for a greater understanding of the resource. We extend our thanks to ASMFC and to all the fisheries participants who had their hand in this task. You are all true stewards of our waters and champions of your industries,” said NEFSA CEO Jerry Leeman.
The commission has authorized about 60,000 pounds in landings to cover the cost of participation. The plan splits the northern shrimp stock water into four areas, allowing four trawlers and four trappers in each region. The program is expected to run from January through March 2025. The Maine Department of Marine Resources, New Hampshire Fish and Game, and the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries are finalizing a start date and other essential logistical details.
The Gulf of Maine shrimp fisheries have been subject to a moratorium for 11 years. NEFSA has consistently maintained that poor survey methods on the part of government regulators has created a false impression of the state of the shrimp stocks. Fishermen want to make their skills and experience available to fishery managers to improve stock surveys.
“We see this as a win-win,” Leeman said. “If the fishermen’s survey indicates the stocks are healthier than past government surveys allowed, we hope and expect ASMFC will incorporate us into their data collection practices more generally. And if the fishermen’s survey confirms the government’s data, ASMFC can have satisfaction that they were right all along.”
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