September 30, 2009 — (Washington, D.C.) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Judd Gregg and Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter today called on Commerce Secretary Gary Locke to adjust proposed fisheries regulations in New England to reflect the unique needs of New Hampshire’s fishing fleet, which has suffered disproportionately under previous regulations. Shaheen, Gregg and Shea-Porter also requested that the agency’s budget provide adequate resources to help New Hampshire fishermen transition to the new management system.
"As currently proposed, the new rule threatens these small businesses that contribute to the economic vitality and cultural identity of the entire Seacoast region," said the delegation in a joint statement. "While we understand that a new management system is vital to continuing efforts to rebuild New England’s groundfish stocks, it cannot overlook the unique needs and viability of New Hampshire’s
small-boat fleet."
Amendment 16 of the New England Fisheries Management Plan creates a new management system that is centered on fishing cooperatives, or "sectors," which are annually allocated a sustainable share of the fishery’s resources to harvest. The amendment was recently approved by the New England Fisheries Management Council (NEFMC).