Menhaden Stakeholders

 

The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission has approved Draft Addendum I to the Menhaden Fishery Management Plan for public comment. The Draft Addendum considers changes to: 1) commercial allocation between the Atlantic coast jurisdictions; 2) the episodic events set aside program; and 3) the incidental catch and small-scale fisheries provision. This is an important opportunity for stakeholders in Maine to provide comments on the future of the menhaden fishery.

Public Hearings:

Maine will be hosting two in-person hearings on September 13th and September 20th to collect public comment on this Draft Addendum.

  • September 13, 2022 at 6:00PM: DMR HQ, Marquardt Bldg, Rm 118, 32 Blossom Lane, Augusta ME
  • September 20, 2022 at 5:00PM: Jeff’s Catering & Event Center, 15 Event Center Way, Brewer, ME

If you cannot attend one of Maine’s in-person hearings, stakeholders are encouraged to attend a webinar hearing hosted by another state on September 7, 8, 26, or 27. To register for a webinar public hearing, click HERE.

Written Comments:

The comment period is open from now until September 30.

Written comment can be submitted to ASMFC:

  • Email: comments@asmfc.org (subject line: Atlantic Menhaden Draft Addendum I)
  • Mail: James Boyle, Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, 1050 N. Highland St., Suite 200A-N, Arlington, VA 22201

Where can I learn more?

A copy of Draft Addendum I can be found HERE.

DMR has created a webpage with additional information on the Draft Addendum which can be found HERE.

A copy of the ASMFC press release can be found HERE.

For additional questions about Draft Addendum I, please contact Megan Ware or Melissa Smith at ME DMR

  • Megan Ware: megan.ware@maine.gov 207.446.0932
  • Melissa Smith: melissa.smith@maine.gov 207.441.5040