Today, United States Senator Charles E. Schumer met with National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administrator Dr. Jane Lubchenco and secured her commitment to visit Long Island this summer to meet with local fishers to hear firsthand the economic impact that imprecise and inflexible fishing restrictions is having on the industry. Schumer also cited recently released information that showed NOAA’s early estimates for black sea bass catch in 2009 were overvalued and called for an immediate expansion of the sea bass fishing season in 2010. Administrator Lubchenco committed to taking a hard look at an expansion of the season.
“I am pleased Administrator Lubchenco has accepted my invitation and agreed to meet with members of the Long Island fishing community this summer to explore how we can improve imprecise and inflexible regulations,” said Senator Schumer. “Long Island’s fishing industry pumps untold millions of dollars into New York’s economy, keeps thousands of people employed in Long Island, is a fundamental part of our heritage and traditions, and is a major contributor to tourism. It’s vital Administrator Lubchenco see firsthand the impacts that overly restrictive regulations have on families and businesses in Long Island.”
At their meeting today, Schumer also secured Lubchenco’s commitment to fully explore an expansion of the sea bass season. Recent data on sea bass catches proved that original estimates from 2009, which resulted in significantly lower catch quotas for 2010, were inaccurate. Administrator Lubchenco committed to active consideration of expanding the sea bass season based on recent evidence.
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