June 6, 2019 — SEAFOOD NEWS — The Gulf of Mexico menhaden purse seine fishery was recommened by independent certification body SAI Global for certification against the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) fisheries standard.
The two participants that requested to be evaluated for MSC certification are Omega Protein and Daybrook Fisheries. Omega Protein was recommended for MSC certification as an Atlantic menhaden fishery back in March.
“The recommendation for MSC certification for our Gulf of Mexico operations is a testament to the hard work we’ve put in over many years to conduct responsible operations,” said Bret Scholtes, CEO of Omega Protein. “The fact that both of the nation’s menhaden fisheries have now been recommended for MSC certification should assure customers and the public alike that our products meet the highest standards of sustainability.”
Fisheries must score a minimum of 60 out of 100 in 28 performance indicators in three categories; sustainability of the stock, efforts to minimize environmental impacts and effective management, to earn certification.
In its recommendation, SAI Global highlighted the menhaden fishery for its extensive surveys, monitoring for menhaden stock and the ecosystem, strong management plan and a robust governance and policy framework.
“Sustainable fishing is important for both the environment and for the future of our business,” said Scott Herbert, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Daybrook Fisheries. “MSC certification will help this fishery meet the demand for sustainable products, while continuing to be an economic engine here for years to come.”
A December 2018 benchmark stock assesment of the Gulf menhaden saw that the population is healthy and managed sustainably. The stock faced no overfishing as well.
This story was originally published on SeafoodNews.com, a subscription site. It is reprinted with permission.