MFCN Calls for Policy Priorities that Promote Healthy Oceans, Productive Fisheries, and Thriving Working Waterfronts

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 6, 2025
CONTACT: Jo Knight, jo@conservefish.org

Arlington, VA – In a letter to U.S. Department of Commerce and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) leadership, the Marine Fish Conservation Network today outlined recommendations for promoting economic and food security through policies that support science-based fisheries management and thriving working waterfronts. These policy recommendations are endorsed by the Network’s members, representing commercial and recreational fishing associations, regional and national conservation groups, aquaria, sustainable seafood suppliers, and marine science organizations. Robert Vandermark, executive director of the Marine Fish Conservation Network, released the following statement:

“NOAA and the Department of Commerce have an opportunity to further America’s progress in fisheries management by continuing to rebuild our fishery resources for economic prosperity, recreational enjoyment, increased ocean health, and healthy food production and seafood security. The Network believes that the most timely and effective way to build economic resilience in commercial and recreational fishing sectors and our coastal communities depends on these priorities.

“First, we encourage this administration to support our fishing communities as the intergenerational fishing cultures that form the economic and social fabric of the coastal United States. Second, we recommend improving science-based assessments, catch accounting, and data management, which are essential to achieving healthier oceans and more productive fisheries. Third, we support strengthening monitoring and transparency of bycatch in all fisheries to increase economic opportunities for fishermen. These policy priorities have direct, positive impacts on the business of fishing, whether commercial or recreational, as well as the seafood supply chain, and allow all sectors to better meet the challenges of the future.”

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The Marine Fish Conservation Network is a coalition of commercial and recreational fishing associations, regional and national conservation groups, aquaria, and marine science organizations committed to sustaining fish populations, healthy marine ecosystems, and robust fishing communities.