April 11, 2025 โ On April 8, 2025, the Massachusetts Commercial Fisheries Commission (CFC) met for the first time to discuss the purpose, role, and direction of this new public body created to strengthen coordination, communication, and support for Massachusetts nation-leading seafood industry for generations to come.
โThe Healey-Driscoll Administration fully supports Massachusettsโ vibrant, iconic and economically valuable commercial fishing industry,โ said EEA Secretary Rebecca Tepper. โWe are proud to establish Commercial Fisheries Commission and look forward to working with the seafood industry representatives to improve opportunities for our commercial fishers, seafood processors, dealers, restaurants, and other industry participants.โ
โCommercial fishing is the oldest of industries in Massachusetts and critically important to the culture, economy, and identity of our coastal communities,โ said DFG Commissioner Tom OโShea. โWe need to work collaboratively with the industry to ensure that we achieve conservation of our marine resources, long-term sustainable harvest, and a bright future for the people who depend on the incredible abundance and diversity of Massachusetts fisheries.โ
โAn important aspect of our mission is to promote and support the Commonwealthโs fisheries and seafood industry. The CFC will provide a valuable venue for interests from various ports and sectors of the seafood industry to come together and address the challenges and opportunities facing the industry state-wide,โ said DMF Director and co-chair Daniel McKiernan. โI anticipate this will provide an opportunity to collaborate to promote economic development, address critical infrastructure upgrades, enhance input into offshore energy development projects, and promote strategies to secure the short and long-term sustainability of this legacy industry. I look forward to the opportunity to co-chair this public body and steer it towards success.โ