A panel of Virginia legislators, environmentalists and watermen will study fishing pressures on menhaden, a small fish in big demand for use in health supplements and a critical food source for other Chesapeake Bay fish.
The creation of the 26-member panel follows a report earlier this year by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission. It recommends limits on the menhaden fishery because of relatively low spawning stock.
The oily, bony fish are key in the bay's food chain, supporting striped bass, bluefish and other species. They are also processed into omega-3 fish oils sold as heart-healthy food supplements.
Sen. Ralph Northam, a Norfolk Democrat, said Wednesday the menhaden is key to the bay's overall health.
Read the complete story at The Washington Post.