ML072060337
| ML072060337 | |
| Person / Time | |
|---|---|
| Site: | Oyster Creek |
| Issue date: | 12/01/2002 |
| From: | Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission |
| To: | Office of Nuclear Reactor Regulation |
| Davis J NRR/DLR/REBB, 415-3835 | |
| Shared Package | |
| ML072060321 | List:
|
| References | |
| Download: ML072060337 (12) | |
Text
ASMFC mc)
FISHERIESr Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission
- 1444 Eve Street, f CaiS I.0 Nashington, D.C.
Workl"ig rtoards healtiv, self-s usrainingpopulationsfor all A dan tic coastfish species, or successfitl restoration wvell in progress,by tie year 2015.
David V.D. Borden Receives Prestigious David H. Hart Award On November 20, 2002, the Atlantic important Atlantic coastal fisheries -- leaving a lasting impression during his States Marine Fisheries Commission American lobster. He soon became tenure. He conducted an in-depth re-proudly recognized the enormous com - Rhode Island's Principal Marine Fish- view of all programs, restructured op-mitment of David V.D. Borden, Assis- cry Biologist, administering the man- erations to promote efficiency, restored tant Director for Natural Resource De- dates of the Fishery Conservation and the chain of command, oversaw. numer-velopment and Protection, Rhode Island Management Act of 1976 (now known otis new initiatives, developed new grant Department of Environmental Manage- as the Magnuson-Stevens Act). and federal aid programs, and improved ment, to the conservation and manage- public relations. During that time, ment of Atlantic coast Fisheries. The In 1987, David was promoted to David was appointed as Rhode Island's award was p resen ted at the Deputy Chief of Marine Fisheries, co- Administrative Commissioner to the Commission's 61" Annual Meeting in ordinating activities between and among Commission, where he served as Vice-Williamsburg, Virginia. various programs to assure compatibil- chair and Chair. As Vice-chair, David ity with marine manage- was instrumental in the development iuenu and enforcement at both the state and continued on page 4 federal level. He worked on the preparation and im pl ementation of Inside This Issue many research and de-Upcoming Meetings Page 2 velopnient projects that have significantly ima- ASMFC Approves Amendment 4 proved the economic re- to the Weakfish FMP Page 4 turn for Rhode Island ASMFC Approves Spiny Dogfish fishermen. During that Plan Page 5 2002 tHartAward Recipient, David VD. Borden of RIDEM (second time David was also ap-fijrm left) iiith the respective incoeingiandoutgoingA SMFC Chairs. States Close Waters to Spiny John L. Nelson. Jr. J'NH Fish &"Game (Parleft) and Susan Shlipman pointed by the Gover- Dogfish Harvest Page 5 of GA CoastalResources, and ASMIFC Executive Directoy Jo/so V nor of Rhode Island to O'Shea (farright) be the state's represen- Species Profile: Weakfish tative to the New En- Page 6 This year's David H. Hart Award recipi- gland Fishery Management Council, ASMFC Comings & Goings ent has been involved in marine fisher- where he has served on numerous com- Page 8 ies management for nearly a quarter of a mittees and chaired the Council for an century and, over that time, he has left Northern Shrimp 2003 Season unprecedented three terms. David has Set at 38 Days Page 9 an indelible mark on the way fisheries been and continues to be a strong advo-conservation and management is con- cate of measures to improve the enforce- Atlantic Herring Area IA ducted along the Atlantic coast. David Closure Page 9 ment capabilities of federal agencies in began his career as a Senior Marine Fish- order to provide greater incentives for ASMFC Resolution on the eries Biologist for the Rhode Island Di- compliance with fishing regulations. National Wildlife Refuge System vision of Fish and Wildlife. Showing in- Page 10 novation and creativity, David designed From 1992 to 1994, David served as Rl Pioneers Web-based and implemented a computerized catch Chief of the Rhode Island Division of Reporting: Part 2 Page I I reporting program for one of the most Fish, Wildlife and Estuarine Resources, C-l1i-L ASMVL 7j0o5c
Upcoming Meetings 1/7 - 9:
Atlantic Stake M alute. Marine Fisheries Advisory Committee, Washington, DC.
Fkk~d~
Coa~foH~edby 1/13 (10 AM - 4 PM):
ASMFC American Lobster Board Workgroup on Trap Trans-t"~e 15 AtlantitWcoasat£ae ferability, Providence. Rhode Island (specific location to be determined).
1942for tk lo otiox,at , .
Iwz-o t&io f of coas tadfrs-k'y ASM F(C Americani Lobster Board Arca 2 Subcomiiniitee, Provi-rewo arcew. T"e Co w~u~wifsi fe'rv-e As dence, Rhode Island (specific location to be determined).
a~djewrativ- bodyof te tatc 1/15 (11 AM - 4 PM):
ASMFC American Lobster Database SubconiUittee, co.a.ta ;ta*tes, coordinwtitg the- Manchester, New Hampshire (specific location to be deter-mined).
Pe4dref1tfhe4- reio "ce, ASMFC American Lobster Technical Committee, Connecti-Cut Department of Environmental Protection, 333 Ferry utdu~uiWy rute-, S-"I aitdt Road, Old Lynie, Connecricut.
oAtlanas.MarinecFies. CToeisfifeet' " 1/2 1 - 22:
ACCSP Computer Technical Committee, Hilton Tampa iemer- .n ta*e&lOf trhe C " "tow.sIo, \Xestshore, 2225 North Lois Avenue, Tampa, Florida.
swe ,:
M Jr, N e- ha, m. .. ...
1/21 - 23:
Mid-Atlantic Fishery Managmcot Council, Tro1mp Plaza, The Boardwalk & MS Avenue, Atlantic City, New Jersey.
Conntecicittj, Nee- York, New jerfey, 1/27 ('9:30 AM - 3:30 PM):
y4n1" 9imni,, VeMawe-s , M a~ry tand, ASMFC American Lobster Advisory Panel, Providence, Rhode Island (specific location to be determined).
.7Viiti aI Mot&Ca)rolita,,,YoutA>
1/28 - 30.
Carotita,, georgia,, aout Florida,. New England Fishery Management Council, Courtyard by Marriot, Portsmouth, New Hampshire.
Atlantic States. Marine Fisheries,Commi.ssi.on John1 [.,Nelson, Jr. (NH), C"hair 2/23 - 26:
Preston Pare, Jr. (NC), Vice Cha1ir RccFish 11 Symposium, St. Petersburg, Florida.
Johnl V.O'Shea, Ex~cutiveý Director 1'\)RobertE.ýBeal, Dicrror; Inteirsiate Fisheries 2/24 - 27:
.;Management Program. . ASMFC Meeting Week, Doubletree Crystal City, 300 Army Dr. LisaL. Kline, Director of4Re'each & StaristicsK. Navy Drive, Arlington, Virginia; 703/416-4100.
Laurai C. facich Director of Finance & Administration.
2/27 - 3/1:
TI"ma L:Berger, gdlto rberg r@'smfic.org Maine's Fishermen's Forum, Samoset Resort, Rockport, Maine.
(202)w289-6400 Phorne (202)289-6051 -,xx. a *.. 3/3 - 7:
South Atlantic Fishery Management Council, Jekyll Island, Georgia.
2002 ASMFC Fisheries Focus, Vol. 11, Issues 11/12, November/December 22 ASMFC Fisheries Focus, Vol. 11, Issues 11/12, November/December 2002
This year has been one of transition and growth for the Commission. Since my arrival .1 continue to be and enthusiasm she has left an important and lasting mark of improvement on the.Commission. Iii delighted with the strehgth and talent of our staff.
,We all were excited to welcome our new Chair, John They have done a superb.job of breaking in anew boss.
I. Nelson Jr.. Chief of New Hampshire Maiine Fish-while not missing a beat in carrying out their imp6r-tant work at the Commission. I have also watched folks eries Division. John's achievements within his'own' move on to bigger and better things and.I ami.thrilled state speak. directly'to his leadership talents and.abili-.
for thie new opportunities, they have in store for them. ties. For the last two decades, he has brought a stead-Their departure is not a loss for the Commnission but a fast coiitnu menit to the conservation and manage-gain fod fisheries management, since most have left to ment of New Hampshire's marine resources. He work with our partners. It has been exciting to watch streamlined the state's fisheiy regulatory process, en-hanced ecosystem moi..toring.f r a.
" os'. ur new ,people'..comiie :aboardiwith energy and en'thu-siasm. We can all,,take pride in the fact- that, the Com-, protected(!importantr'habitats, within the, state's larg-mission continues to attract'such talented people.- est estuary, and conducted outreach efforts, tosub--
-.stanti ally improve'. comimunication and interaction.
Ouir 61"' Amnual Meeting in Williamsburg, Virginia with commercial and recreational fishing constitu-_
.was a terrific event. Ctommissioner Bill Prtiit and his ents. Those of wou-who have worked with John be-staff did a wonderful'job hosting US th.roughout the fore know the Commission will greatly benefit.from v' Wek. I was especially pleased 1that So many spouses his knoiwledge and ability to work wth others. He were bleC to join us -ThereaCre .longh0ours of meetirigs* has already indicated his first order of business will and travel involved with the Commission process; I be"to lead his fellow' Cominissioners in the develop-was glad I could ncert and say thank you to those who ment of our next five-year strategic plan.
usually sait behind, and support our Commissioners
.inutheir important work. Their presence was a grear Assisting John will be Preston Pate- Jr., Director of addition to our social events where they were able to the North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries, the a share.with usIn ouir Celbrat0 sf9feveral iunportant. .Commissions new Vice-chair. In his home state Pres transitions. 'is responsible for regulating North Carolina's billion In this spirit of celebration, we congratulated out out dollar saltwater fishing industry. A resource man-agenent. professional since 1971. Pres brings to the going Chair Susan Shipman,. Director of Georgia Conmrmission ,ears of wisdom and experience, as well
'Coastal Resources Division. Over her two-year tenure as dedication to sustainable fisheries managemnent.
as Chair, the Commission, through its member states, .'He will be a great addition to our leadership team,
,has made sigfiiffcanrt prbgress inapromoting and 'pro- ancla person wecnaller rll tcithe valuable resources of tle Atlantic coast.
Susan has srronily fr*icred anrenvironment of mu'ial Yoiu can see from.our cover We also recognized Davidý 0..'partnership and( c6operation. Above all else, Susan Borden as 'this year's Hart Award recipient. You can believed in the commtnitment. that the states haverto read:'the. details ab0ou the.,award in 'the article dedi-one another to identify common challenges and seek cared' to'that topic, 'so I will not repeat them here.
shared solMuions throudgh clear communication and But,:l will say congratulations to David and note
'reasonable deliberation* The accomplishments of. the ithat he-joins an impressive list of prior' recipien.ts,. a past two ,yearsc speak to the power of that comnijt rteal hall of fame of East Coast fish'eries-'na'gers._
ment. During her chairmanship, Susan guided..the Commission in appointing aInew executie.'directro As, we close this year, I encourage you all to take pride implementing variouis fisherieCs ianagementr deei . in our Many accomplishments in advancing respon-
,111(land
.q~.
. sionis to protect and reWhutlIdstocks. She oversaiwiim- s'ie stewardship ofifn'rarie 'fisheries isources** Your provements to the Commissions peer reviewand stock support and enthusiasm for thrework we all do is a assessment processes, inCIucdirih consid aiitiin of 'Nsource of constant inspiration for me and our staff.
'N multispecies/ecosystem asesis .. She empowered During this rime of transititin-and, growth,' I. look our lelsla-ors wd governors' appomtees as the pr- ;forward to working with you all in what I hope will S ubh'nstewarusor t*heommusshon hearvisorm, panerl and be..a pro'dlucIve and 'happy NewxyYear. Best wlshes for iublic' tinput process.* Throug~h her wisdom, eriergy:" a safe an'd enj)oyablc holiday.
p.*i 3
2002 Focus, Vol.
Fisheries Focus, ASMFC Fisheries Vol. 11, 11, Issues 1/ 12, November/December Issues I11/12, November/December 2002 3
ASMFC Approves Amendment 4 to the Fishery Management Plan for Weakfish On November 21, 2002, the Atlantic the development of Amendment 4, with least an equal poundage of other species States Marine Fisheries Commission the Board adopting many of the Advi- on board the vessel. Additionally, approved Amendment 4 to the Inter- sory Panel's recommendations for inclu- Amendment 4 encourages states to pro-state Fishery Management Plan (FMP) sion in the plan." vide incentives for the use of escape pan-for Weakfish. Amendment 4 aims to els in commercial pound nets.
ensure a healthy spawning stock bioma- Amendment 4 includes minimum size/
ass, restore the age structure of the popu- bag limit options for the states to man- Amendment 4 also takes strides to en-lation, and expand the geographic range age their recreational fisheries. States sure that the necessary information is of weakfish. To achieve these goals, may chooSe front a range ot minimum being collected for future weakfish stock Amendment 4 includes a new overfish- sizes and corresponding bag limits from assessments. States that land at least 2.5 ing definition with fishing mortality the following options: 12" minirnum percent of the coastwide weakfish land-targets rand thrcsholds, as well as a size/7 fish bag limit, 13" minimtmU size/ ings will be required to collect age and spawning stock biomass threshold. 8 fish bag limit, 14" minimtnUm size/9 length information from their weakfish fish bag limit, 15" and higher minimum commercial and recreational landings.
"I am very pleased with the final docu- size/10 fish bag limit. States will ment that we have approved and I am be determining which combina-confident that Amendment 4 will con- tion is the most appropriate for tinue to build upon the stock recovery their fishermen over the next benefits that have been achieved under couple of months.
Amendment 3, " stated Weakfish Board Chair, Gordon Colvin of New York. Amendment 4 maintains the ma-
"The Amendment is the result of the jority of commercial fishery man-collective efforts and inptut of the Man- agement measures that have been.
agement Board, Technical Committee successful under Amendment 3, includ- Copies of the Amendment will be avail-and Advisory Panel, all of whom have ing closed areas and seasons, and mesh able by the end of the year and can be worked hard to develop a plan that con- size regulations. The primary changes obtained by contacting the Commission ri nues to rebuild the weakfish stock to the commercial management pro- at (202) 289-6400 or via the while allowing for high quality commer- grain under Amendment 4 address Corm mission's website at cial and recreational fisheries. The bycatch issues. Specifically, the bycatch www.asmfc.org. For more information, Weakfish Advisory Panel, led by Chair allowance during closed seasons was i- please contact Braddock Spear, Weak-Clarence W. Lee, deserves particular rec-" creased to 300 pounds with additional fish Fishery Management Plan Coordi-ognition. They provided invaluable as- language indicating that this allowance nator, at (202) 289-6400, ext. 301 or sistance to the Management Board in is permitted provided that there is at bspear@asmfc.org.
David V.D. Borden Receives Prestigious David H. Hart Award (continued from page 1) of the Commission's first five-year stra- ticipate in and run meetings, and pro- recognize individuals who have made tegic plan and presided over the imple- vided training to improve their indi- outstanding contributions to the bet-mentation of the first Action Plan dur- vidual and collective skills. He was also terment of marine fisheries on the At-ing his chairmanship. As Chair, David instrumental in the development of the lantic coast. The award is named for made tremendous strides to increase the Atlantic Coastal Cooperative Statistics the Commission's oldest and longest-efficiency in the way the Commission Program, with his state leading the way serving member, a Governor's Appoin-conducts its business. with a state of the art data collection tee from New Jersey who was dedicated and management program for commer- to the advancement and protection of Overseeing the Commission's transition cial fisheries. marine fishery resources. For more in-to four meeting weeks a year, he chal- formation, please contact Laura Leach, lenged his fellow Commissioners to be The Commission instituted the "Cap- Director of Finance and Administration, more responsible in the way they par- tain David H. Hart Award" in 1991 to at (202) 289-6400..
2002 4 ASMUC Fisheries Focus, Vol. 11, Issues 11/12, November/December ASMFC Fisheries Focus, Vol. 11, Issues 11/12,Noverriber/Decernber2002
ASMFC Approves Spiny Dogfish FMP: Plan Implementation Slated for May I, 2003 On November 21, 2002, the Atlantic managed through a constant fishing Coordinator, at (202) 289-6400 or States Marine Fisheries Commission mortality strategy, which currently al- <mgamblc@asmfc.org>.
approved the Interstate Fishery Manage- lows for a four million-pound quota, ment Plan (FMP) for Spiny Dogfish. divided into two semiannual periods The FMP, which complements existing (Period I - 57.9 percent and Period 2 = States Close Waters federal regulations for spinsy dogfish, em- 42.1 percent). to Spiny Dogf ish ploys a constant fishing mortality (F =
Since August 21, 2000, the states have Fishery 0.03) strategy and directs the Manage-inenr Board to cstablish an annual con- regulated the spiny dogfislh corn eciial Beginning at 12:01 AM, Noven-..
mercial quota. This quota is based on fishery through a series of emergency hbet 2 1,2002, the Atlatditic coastal the status of the stock and is allocated actions, closing state waters to the com- states. closed :heir waterscrto v the between the same two periods in the fcd- mercial harvest, possession and landing harvest, possession and landing of eral fishery (May I - October 31 and of spiny dogfish when there is a closure spiny dogfish, The closuLIwhicl:
November 1 - April 30). To control in federal waters. The final extension of extends for the remainde f quotýaL the rate of harvest, trip limits are also the Spiny Dogfish Emergency Action period 2 (throu'gh April 30, set annually (sec the table below). will expire Janutary 31, 2003. Until state 200j3), complements ,similar ac-.i implementation of the plan by May 1, nion taklen by NOAA Fisheries In, In addition to the above measures, the 2003, the FMP requires states to main-federal :aters Board added a provision that allows rain their current regulations and close states to issuIe exempted fishing permits state waters to the3 commercial harvest, Under the .terms.i of theC.
for the purposes of supplying the bio- possession and landing of spiny dogfish C onmi sslolnls Spi ny Dogfi.sh medical industry. States are limited to when the federal quota is harvested. Emnergency Action iapjlroved by 1,000 fish per year.. Prior to the start of State implementation proposals are due thSpiny ... Dogfish: andtCoasa.
the fishing year, states must notify the February 1, 2003 and will be imple- Slhark Managemenet Bdard *,( On Commission of all spiny dogfish exempted mented by May 1, 2003, the start of August 21, 2000<ian'l extendedi permits issued within their state. the 2003-2004 fishing year. h Bo ard th&lrog h jan uary 1, 1byche
- 2Q031all srar*rei rdju c ied to The Spiny Dogfish & Coastal Shark Copies of the FMP can be obtained by closc theirtIFshees wher 1the fedC&
Management Board first initiated devel- contacting the Commission at (202) eIal: fisIhery is close&d. W1hile opnment of the FMNP in 1999, with the 289-6400 or via the Commission's provisions of
- implementing: theAC intent of coordinating on-going federal website at www.asmfc.org. For more Interstate Spiny Dogfish Plan, .t actions in the exclusive economic zone. information, please contact Megan states aretrequired to maintain Under the federal plan, the fishery is Gamble, Fisheries Management Plan ICUSrae regulaion01s for 1current spiny dogfish. Conltinuinfi ll Summary of Interstate Spiny Dogfish Management Measures <::,through Jnay31l (tKe expira* ::
Fsig Year ~ Period I Period IIse >x lion of the ergency action) and Until May 1, 2003 (state imple-May 1 Apt 130 May I - October 30 November I - April 30 >:in cntacion deadline), states are Annual Quota To be determined annually based on stock status required to marintain Iregulations prolulbitin,' th commenrcial hat -
vest, pos sessro and lan di ng of Coast-wide Quo0ta' 21 spipy dogfish Inl staite warers,ý Quota Ovegas Deducted from Period I in the Deducted from Period IL in the following fishing year following fishing year TheC spiny dogfish fishery is s~ched-uled: to reopen,: oin M:vay 1, 2003.
Possession lmrits To be specified on an annual basis Foi more in formnationl, please Con-Exempted Permits 1,000 fish per state per year tact Megan .*amble,VFishees:
for Biomedical If requested in the state implementationplan and/orthe annualstate Management* Plan Coordinator, Supl compliance report at (2022) 28 9-6400 0or Prohibition on. Prohibited in allstate waters at all times of the year <mgambe111, 1)asm~fc org>.
Finning~ Finning - removing the fins and returningthe remainderto sea 5
FocusVol.
ASMFC Fisheries Focus, ASMFC 11, Issues Vol. 11, 11/ 12, November/December2002 Issues 11/12, November/December 2002 5
Species Profile: Weakfish Coastwide Reductions in FishingMortality & Bycatch Reduction Devices Yield Big Results Introduction Under Amendment 3 to the Weakfish Fishery Management Plan (FMP), weakfish have experienced significant stock growth with increases in spawning stock biomass and the number of recruits entering the fishery each year. Combined, these factors have resulted in the weakfish fishery moving from an overfished condition to a recover-ing stock. These improvements are primarily the result of significant declines in fishing Mortality rates over the. last six years and the cornitmenit o( recreational and commercial fishermen to forgo short-term benefits for theliong-term success of'thc fishery.
Amendment 4 to the FMP, which was approved in November, intends to continue to build upon these gains by establishing stock assessment benchmarks, such as thresh-old levels for fishing mortality and spawning stock biomass.
This article will provide a brief overview of weakfish - its stock status, commercial and recreational fisheries, and management considerations.
-Stock Status The weakfish stock assess- Figure 1 mcnt was updated in 2002 with data through 2000. Weakfish Spawning Stock Biomass Source: Kahn 2002 120 Current estimates of spawning stock biomass 100 are well above the thresh-
. ',-, .' old recently approved in 80 Amendment 4 (Figure 1).
E
-~ Since 1992, recrtuitment 2 60 has been above 30 million 0
fish, with peak years over fn 40 60 million (Figtrre 2).
Large year classes were pro- 20 duced in 1984, 1985, 0
1993, 1995, 1998 and 1999. Fishing mortality YEAR rates have also been below the Amendment 4 target Figure 2 of 0.31 (approximately 27 Weakfish Recruitment at Age 1 percent exploitation rate). Source: Kahn 2002 However, estimates of spawning stock biomass, recruitment and fishing mortality for the most recent year of the assessment should be viewed with caution given the uncertainty of these estimates. As new data is added to the assessment, fishing mortality is ex-pected to rise and spawning stock biomass is expected to de-crease.
There also appears to be an increase in the age and size structure of the weakfish fishery. In 1982, the estimate of the proportion Year of age six plus fish was one percent of the total. This proportion has been increasing in recent years to 6.8 percent of the total in 2001; this trend is expected to continue under Amendment 4.
6 ASMFC Fisheries Focus, Vol. 11, Issues 11/12,November/December2002
Recreational & Commercial Fisheries Atlantic Coast Management Weakfish have supported fisheries along Considerations the Atlantic coast since at least the In 1985, as a result of population de- Weakfish Life History
[800s, and are highly sought after by clines and limited biological informa-both commercial and recreational fish- tion, the Atlantic States Marine Fisher-Weakfish occur along, the Atlantic ermen. From 1950 to the late 60s, com- ies Commission initiated the develop-coast of North America from Nova mercial landings fluctuated without ment of its first FMP for Weakfish. The Scotia, Canada to the east coast of trend, ranging from three to nine mil- Plan prescribed only two specific man-Florida. but are most common from lion pounds (Figure 3). The early 70s a(gement measures: (1) promote the use New Y6rk to North Carolina.
began a period of tremendous growth of trawl efficiency devices in the south-Warming of coastal waxters in the in the commercial fishery, widh landings crn shrimp. fisherv; and (2) reduce spring prompts an inshore and peaking at 36 million pounds in 1980. catches of weakfish one vear or less in northerly migration of adults from The commercial fishery declined age.
their offshore wintering grounds to steadily throughout the I 980s, drop-While the goals of the plan, as well as nearshore sounds, bays and estuar-ping to a low of six million pounds in its two subsequent amendments, were ies. Spawniing qccurs sh;¢irly after 1994. Since then, the fishery has main-well intentioned, the states were unable the inshore migration, peaking tained itself at around seven to eight mil-to stop the continued decline of weak- from late April to June,, with some lion pounds, largely in response to har-fish stocks. It was not until 1996 that geographic variation in"timring. In vest restrictions under the Commission the states, armed with the compliance thle fall, an offshore and southierly, plan. The primary commercial gear for mandates of the Atlantic Coastal Fish- migration of aduilt' coincdes with weakfish are trawls and gilinets, although eries Cooperative Management Act, were .dechinig WaLC" tA11p'eratMeS. The weakfish are also landed using pound able, to develop and implement a plan continental shelf from Chesapeake nets and haul seines.
(Amendment 3) to recover overfished Bay to Cape Lookouit, North Caro-Recreational landings have followed a weakfish stocks. Under this plan, stocks lina'a ,appears..to be the ,maj or'vIwin similar trend to that of commercial began to rebound as a result of conser- tering grouncd for weakfish.
landings, with harvest peaking at 16 vative fishing mortality targets. Other million pounds in 1980 and steadily measures that have contributed to the Growth in weakfish is particularly decreasing over the next 10 years to a stock's continuing recovery are the use rapid in the first year'aind 'ihey low of one million pounds. In the early of gear modifications to reduce bycarch mature at a young age. Most fish 1990s, recreational landings fluctuated of juivenile weakfish in the southern are spawning at the end of their first between one and two million pounds. shrimp fisheries and closure of the flynet year and all fish aire mature by 'their Since 1996, landings have ranged be- fishery south of Cape Hatteras. second year. The size of a weakfish.
tween three and four million pounds. is. not a particularly good indicator.
Measures required under Amendment oif agýc as1a .1-inch wfeakF1sdican 4, which will be :;ranc in ge U1m.on tosiyer Figure. 3 implemented by Old. Size at age one is.wvriable but July 2003, will most fish are ten to eleven:inches*
Annual Coastal Weakfish Commercial & allow for further long.
Recreational Landings stock expansion 40 to historical size Surveys along the'Atlantic coast 35 and age struc- indicate t&at estuaries provide feed-tures and geo- ing areas and spawning grounds~for
'30 graphic ranges, adult weakfish and 'are eqriallin-.
- a 25 with the ultimate portant as nursery areas for 'jive-,,,,
0 20 .niles. Adult weakfish are often goal of providing
.0 15 greater benefits ,found near the periphery of eelgrass
_10 ____ to commercial b'eds perhaps because weaklsh priI O5 and recreational mrarily fced on shrnimp other crus-
, i0 , l i i , l l ,- i , l . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. .~i fishermen along taceans, and smiall fi1sh that are 1950 1955 1960 1965 1970 1975 1980 1985 1990 1995 2000 the Atlantic fou~nd~near the beds .
Year coast.
I - Commercial . Recreational I ASMFC Fisheries Focus, Vol. 11, Issues 11 / 12, November/December 2002 7
ASMFC Comings & Goings Jeffrey Brust -- For the past six years, Over his six years as FMP Coordinator, ology from the University of Maryland Jeff has worked for the Commission as a Joe provided primary oversight and co- (College Park) and an M.A. in Marine Research Specialist in the Research and ordination responsibilities for a great Affairs from the University of Rhode Is-Statistics Program. During that time, many Atlantic Coaistal species, includ- land. His master's thesis was on ana-Jeff was instrumental in developing the ing Atlantic croaker, Atlantic menhaden, lyzing past federal fisheries litigation.
Commission's Stock Assessment Train- Atlantic herring, red drum, Spanish More recently, Brad worked for the Na-ing Workshops and User Manual, both mackerel, spiny dogfish, spot, spotted tional Academy of Public Administration, of which are geared at providing the nec- seatrout, and winter flounder. In this as part of a research team which reviewed essary training and knowledge to stare capacity. Joewas also the primary author the management of the National Marine technical staff so that they may become of rhree interstare, fisheryr management Fisheries Service. \Welcome aboard, Brad!
more proficient at stock assessment plans, namely, Atlantic Herring Amend-Heather Stirratt -- For more than three analyses. He assisted in the ment 1, Atlantic Menhaden Amendment years, Heather provided primary over-Commission's external peer reviews of I and Red Drun Amendment 2.
sight and coordination of the interstate American shad, Atlantic sturgeon and In late November, Joe began his new job fisheries management programs for horseshoe crab, as well as serving on as Fisheries Management Specialist with American eel, American lobster, Atlan-many other ASM FC species stock assess-NOAA Fisheries' Highly Migratory Spe- tic sturgeon, shad & river herring and ment subcommittees. Over the last cies Division, where lie will be working tautog. Most notably, she assumed the couple of years, Jeff took the lead in de-on species such as tuna, billfish and coordination responsibilities for Ameri-veloping the Commission's Aquaculture sharks. Joe's hard work and attention to can lobster from Amy Schick without Guidance document and coordinating detail has left a lasting impression on skipping a beat, and thereby allowing the Northeast Area Monitoring and As-the work he has accomplished at the all those invoived in the lobster man-sessment Program.
Commission, and he will be missed. We agement program to move steadily for-Jeff left the Commission at the end of wish you the very best! ward in the development and imple-November to. begin his new job with mentation of Addenda II and Ill of the Laura Huggins -- For overa year and a Entrix, a private consulting firm based out plan. Other significant contributions in-half, Laura (also known as Lil' L) pro-of Dover, Delaware. Jeff has been a great cluded facilitation of workshops onl vided administrative support to the asset to the Commission staff and we will American Lobster Transferable Traps and Commission's Research & Statistics and miss his enthusiasm and hard work. Con- American Eel Sexing and Aging. In ev-Interstate Fisheries Management Pro-gratulations and much success, Je.ffl. erything that she did, Heather brought grams. In November, she left the Con-her keen sense of order and detail, en-Joseph Desfosse -- When Joe first came Mission to begin her career as an Emer-thusiasm and commitment to doing a to the Commission in April 1995 it was gency Services Specialist for Chemtrec.
job well done.
as the original coordinator for the At- Good luck, Laura, and much success!
lantic Coast Cooperative Statistics Pro- In mid-October, Heather joined the Braddock Spear -- On October 21, gram. And as such, he helped to lay staff at NOAA Fisheries' Highly Migra-2002, Brad joined the Commission as the foundation for the premier fisheries tory Species Division as Fisheries Man-an FMP Coordinator. Since then, he has data collection and management pro- agement Specialist, where she will be gram that it is today. After a year or so, begun to assume the coordination re- working on species such as tuna, bill-Joe moved into the position of Fisheries sponsibilities for Atlantic sturgeon, fish and sharks. We will miss you horseshoe crab ahd weakfish. Brad Management Plan (FMP) Coordinator. Heather and wish you much success!
brings to his work a B.S. in Marine Bi-Sta7ff " S4p"S.ecies Coor'diniationl Res ph sIb....
I"<
-,I Robert Beat ISFA4P'Director Atlantic herring, Atlantic menhaden, Atlantic striped bass and South Atlantic
- species (Atlantic croaker, red drum, Spanish mackerel, spot, spotted seatrout)
- Megan Gamble, FMP'A1Coordinator Spiny dogfish & coastal sharks, and Atlantic striped bass (as of January 2003)
Michael Lewis, FMTP Gooritata {ori Northern shrimp, bluefish, summer flounder, scup and black sea bass MungeirI MP1 CoorIilato.r dLydia < American eel, shad & river herring, tautog and winter Hounder Carrie Se 5 berg, FMP Coor1inator C; American lobster, horseshoe crab and weakfish, as well as habitat issues 2eils Haia 1"raddock SpearFMP-Co/rdiin/ilot Horseshoe crab and weakfish (as of January 2003), and Atlantic sturgeon
. 2002 ASMUC Fisheries FocusVol. 11, Issues 11/12, November/December 8 ASMFC Fisheries Focus, Vol. 11, Issues 11/12,Noverriber/Decernber2002
Northern Shrimp 2003 Fishing Season Set at 38 Days On November 13, 2002, the Atlantic stock status and contintcid economic Northern Shrimp Fishery Management States M'larine Fisheries Commission's hardship experienced by the New En- Plan. (FMIP). The primary, goal of the Northern Shrimp Section approved a gland shrimp industry. I am pleased amendment will be to provide addi-38-day fishing season for the 2003 that the Section was able to work with tional management options to regulate northern shrimp fishery, a 14-day in- industry to craft a season that has a good and promote the recovery of this spe-crease from last year's season. The longer chance of protecting both the egg-bear- cies, while also taking into consideration season was based on a modest improve- ing females and the smaller shrimp that the historical participation and impor-ment in stock status and an attempt to represent the future of the fishery. We tance of the fishery.
prcscrv'c the northern shrinip com mer- hope rhar it will providc fishcrmen and cial fishery. The Coinmission's North- processors with enough shrimp to inahn- The northern shrimp fishery is Jointly ern Shrimp Advisory Panel advocated a rain the commercial fishery. infrastruc- regulated by the States of Maine and 47-day fishing season during January, ture. The Section is encouraged by the New Hampshire, and the Common-February, and March, while the North- strong 2001 year-class which, if left to wealth of Massachusetts through the ern Shrimp Technical Committee rec- grow, may provide an excellent oppor- Atlantic States Marine Fisheries omimended that there be no fishing sea- tunity for stock recovery." Commission's Northern Shrimp Section.
son in 2003. The cooperative management program The fishing season will be in one pe- has been in place since 1972 and is cur-
"The most recent stock assessment in- riod, January 15, 2002 through Febru- rently managed under the 1986 FMP..
dicates that while stock biomass is still ary 27, 2002, with Fridays off. The sea-low, the 2001 year-class is among the son is the same for mobile and trap gear. For more information, please contact:
largest ever seen," stated Section Chair, Michael Lewis, Northern Shrimp Pau1 Diodati from. Massachusetts. "T'he In other business, the Section anticipates Fishery Management Plan Coordinator, season, though short, is longer than last meeting this winter to review and pos- Interstate Fisheries Management year in recognition of the improved sibly approve Amendment I to the Program, at (202)289-6400, ext. 330.
Atlantic Herring Management Area I A Closed to Fishing On November 22, 2002, NOAA Fisheries announced that as of 0001 hours1.157407e-5 days <br />2.777778e-4 hours <br />1.653439e-6 weeks <br />3.805e-7 months <br />, December 1, 2002, vessels issued federal Map of Atlantic Herring Management Areas permits for Atlantic herring may not retain or land more than 2,000 pounds of Atlantic herring from Area IA per trip ::.
or calendar day for the remainder of the 2002 fishery. This -:Al announcement was made based on projections that 95 per-cent of the Atlantic herring total allowable catch (TAC) alIlo- ' .-
cated to Management Area IA for the 2002 fishing year (Janu- ".
ary-December) would be harvested by December 1, 2002... ........
The federal catch limit restriction will cease at 0001 hours1.157407e-5 days <br />2.777778e-4 hours <br />1.653439e-6 weeks <br />3.805e-7 months <br />, January 1, 2003.
Under the Commission's Amendment I to the Interstate Fish- LE / " _-_1 cry Management Plan for Atlantic Herring, states must pro-hibit the landing of herring from a closed area and prohibitr directed fishing for Atlantic herring in state waters of a closed z' area once a closure has been announced by the Regional Ad-ministrator/NOAA Fisheries. During a closure, vessels par- - . -
ticipating in other fisheries may retain and land an inciden-tal catch of herring from a closed area that does not exceed Z ..
2,000 pounds per trip. For more information, please contact Robert Beal, Director, Interstate Fisheries Management Pro-gram, at (202) 289-6400.
ASMFC Fisheries Focus, Vol. 11, Issues 11 / 12, November/December 2002 9
ASMFC RESOLUTION ON THE IMPORTANCE OF THE NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE SYSTEM ON THE OCCASION OF ITS CENTENNIAL The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission resolves as follows:
Whereas, the states along the Atlantic coast, from Maine through Florida, work togcthcr in close partnership to promote and protect the valuable marine fishery resources that they share; and Whereas, these states share public trust responsibilities for these resources with each other, and also with the federal government; and Whereas, tie National Wildlife Refuge System, under careful management by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service of the Department of the Interior, provides important habitat for our nation's fish and wildlife species, including the marine fishery resources of the Atlantic coast; and Whereas, there are more than 60 national wildlife refuges located along the Atlantic coast that providc nearly 700,000 acres of habitat for fish and wildlife species; and Whereas, national wildlife refuges along the Atlantic coast provide essential habitat for coastal and marine fisheries that support a inrulti-billion dollar industry of commercial and recreational fislicrics; and .
Whereas, the national wildlife refuges have made and are continuing to make substantial contributions to the management, restoration, recovery and sustainability of coastal fisheries resources; and Whereas, national wildlife refuges provide numerous opportunities for recreational anglers, with over 1. 1 million visitor use-days for salt water fishing; and Whereas, the National Wildlife Refuge System will celebrate its centennial on March 14, 2003, marking 100(years since President Theodore Roosevelt established the first national wildlife refuge at Pelican Island, Florida.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, That the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission congratulates the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Wildlife Refuge System on 100 years of conservation success through careftilly applied fishery and wildlife managed principles; and That the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission commends the United States Congress on passage of the National Wildlife Refuge System Centennial Act of 2000, and encourages increased funding and support of the National Wildlife Refuge System by the Congress to support management assistance for coastal fisheries, cooperative conservation programs for anadromous species, conservation and enhancement of valuable coastal fisheries habitat, and research to provide information for state and federal agencies to secure the public trust in coastal fishery resources; and That the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission recognizes the National Wildlife Refuge System's key role in the conservation and management of the valuable coastal fisheries resources of this nation.
Done this 21 st day of November, 2002, in Williamsburg, Virginia.
10 ASMFC Fisheries Focus, Vol. 11, Issues 11/12, November/December 2002
RI Pioneers Web-based Reporting PartTwo: Building an Application for a Specialized Industry*
As a partner in the Atlantic Coastal Co- Within RIFIS, dealers and other indus- 'ha view an online demonstration of the operative Statistics Program (ACCSP), try mcnibers will enter trip data using RIFIS, visit http://llxww.accsp.org/
the Rhode Island Department of Envi- online forms similar to the common mainnews.html.
ronmental Management (DEM) is paper forms. Users may also select data, working with ACCSP staff to develop such as names, addresses and permit About the ACCSP and manage an online trip-level report- numbers, to automatically populate The ACCSP is a cooperative state-fed-ing system that meets data collection fields when beginning a new logbook eral program to design, implement, and standards and utilizes cost-effective entry. The application will also create conduct marine fisheries statistics data state-of-the-art tech nology. receipts and run reports for transactions, collection programs and to ini tegrate recalling the dealers' data of record. The those data into a single data manage-Rhode Island has been collecting trip- report function will provide the indus- ment system that will meet the needs level catch and effort data from its state- try with a process to confirm that its of fishery managers, scientists, and fish-licensed lobstermen since June of 2001. data are being accurately transmitted ernmen. It is composed of representatives The state will take the next step soon to and stored. from natural resource management bring all fisheries up to the ACCSP's agencies coastxvide, including the Com-standards with mandatory dealer report- The web-based software is written in mission, the three Atlantic Fishery Man-ing of trip-level data. Partner and ACCSP Oracle Fornms, using Oracle Jlnitiator to agement Councils, the 15 Atlantic staff began developing an online appli- download the application, which ser- states, the Potomac River Fisheries Com-cation to serve this function during the vices directly with Netscape Navigator mission, the DC Fisheries and Wildlife summer of 2002. or lntern.et Explorer on Windows 98, Division. NOAA Fisheries and the U.S.
Windows 2000, Windows NT4.0, and Fish & Wildlife Service.
"We've been listening carefully to the Windows XP platforms. No CDs will dealers who have assisted us in building be necessary forrusers who are already For more information please contact, this application," said Barry Brasseaux, online. The application does require rela- Abbey Compton, ACCSP Outreach Co-Information Systems Programmer for tively high monitor resolution to accom- ordinator,' at 202-289-6400 or the ACCSP. "They stressed from the modate the application's detailed on- abbey.conmpto n@accsp.org.
beginning that their time to perform screen logbook images. DEM expects to data entry is limited, and that it should make the application available to its be designed to minimize typing. I think dealers in January of 2003, making we've found several ways to do that." catch and effort reporting for finfish, shellfish and crustaceans simpler, more *"Part One: Surveying the Issues" ap-When users log-on to the Rhode Island complete and relatively inexpensive. peared in Fisheries Focus, Volume 11, Fisheries Information System (RIFIS), Issue 7/8 they will need to enter a username and "This system will be much more effi-password assigned to them by the ad- cient for resource managers and mem-ministrator for protection of their sen- bers of the industry who use it," says sitive information. Once logged-in, deal- Maury Osborn, ACCSP Director.
ers will see daily communications from "Rhode Island dealers will soon begin DEM on pertinent information, such doing much of the data entry that part-as quota status and fisheries closures. The ners have traditionally employed staff to advance warning of fisheries closures will do. It will streamline the data, collec-make transitioning less troublesome for tion process and save much needed state fishermen and dealers. and federal funds."
ASMFC Fisheries Focus, Vol. 11, Issues 11/1 2, November/December 2002 I1I
The Staff of the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commissionjoins in wishing you the happiest of holidays and a healthy and prosperous New Year!
Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission 1444 Eye Street, N.W, 6th Floor Washington D.C. 20005 Return Service Requested