May 11, 2016 — The following statement was released by Bob Jones, Executive Director of the Southeastern Fisheries Association, following the passage of the ASMFC motion calling for the president not to declare a marine monument in the Atlantic Ocean:
“The Southeastern Fisheries Association supports the ASMFC Resolution in support of continuing the current New England Fishery Management Council’s coral management process. We respectfully oppose a Presidential Proclamation designating a deep water marine monument. It is unnecessary and would have a negative impact on the nation’s ability to produce seafood on a sustainable basis.
Please allow the Magnuson Act to address these fishing issues.”
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SFA’s mission is to defend, protect and enhance the commercial fishing industry in the southeastern United States for present participants as well as future generations through all legal means while maintaining healthy and sustainable stocks of fish.