NEW BEDFORD, Mass.—The U.S. Commerce Department said Wednesday that it's sending experts to six Northeast ports in April to identify the financial fallout caused by federal fishing rules.
The "economic development assessment teams" will conduct two-day evaluations in New Bedford and Gloucester, Mass.; Portland, Maine; Seabrook, N.H.; Point Judith, R.I. and Montauk, N.Y.
The teams will meet with local officials and fishing industry workers about the economic effects of falling fishing revenues, caused by cuts in catch limits that aim to rebuild fish stocks.
"We know that by rebuilding stocks, we will improve economic conditions for fishermen and coastal communities, but we recognize that transition is difficult," Commerce Secretary Gary Locke said in a statement. "We are committed to help identify proactive solutions during these challenging economic times."
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