New England groundfish have gone from an abundant community when Europeans first arrive to today’s record low populations. In response to the challenge of how to help the species recover while still allowing fishing the New England Fisheries Council is considering adopting Amendment 16 Regulations.
The New England groundfish fishery would be more economically and environmentally sound if the system used to manage the activities of commercial fishermen was changed from regulations based on “days-at-sea” to annual catch limits and allows for "sector management" of fishing activities by fishermen themselves. In addition, the new system would give declining populations of the region’s iconic species like cod and flounder a chance to rebuild, providing a sustainable future for the industry.
Contact the National Marine Fisheries Service and tell them you support the proposed Amendment 16