Priorities for the 117th Congress
The Marine Fish Conservation Network is dedicated to upholding and strengthening the science and conservation-based mandates in federal fisheries policy that will ensure all of us benefit from this natural resource for generations to come. Science-based fisheries management has improved the health of U.S. fish stocks over the past decade, thanks to amendments made during the last reauthorization of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, our nation’s primary federal fisheries law. With the 116th Congress once again considering changes to the law, we must work together to make sure the Magnuson-Stevens Act continues to support abundant fish populations and conserve the habitats upon which they rely.
Factsheet
Navigating Toward Healthier Oceans and More Productive Fisheries
The Network will work with Congress to build upon the success of the Magnuson-Stevens Act to sustain fish populations, healthy marine ecosystems and thriving fishing communities into the future. To help ensure U.S. fishing is well-positioned to meet the economic and environmental challenges that lie ahead, the Network’s diverse membership has developed a set of recommendations for advancing fisheries management in the next reauthorization of the law.
Supporting & Strengthening Our Fishing Communities & Working Waterfronts
Coastal fishing communities and working waterfronts are intricately linked to the marine ecosystem on which they rely. Read more.
Supporting & Strengthening Science-Based Catch Accounting & Data Management
Accurate, timely, and transparent stock assessments are the foundation and hallmark of successful, science-based fishery management. Read more.
Strengthening Bycatch Provisions
Bycatch continues to be a persistent problem in fisheries across the United States. It is more than just waste—bycatch can have significant ecological, social, and economic consequences as well. Read more.
Upholding Federal Statutes
Four main statutes serve distinct but complementary purposes for responsible ocean conservation. All four are needed to ensure the sustainable management of U.S. fishery resources through a broad ecosystems approach.Read more.
Improving Forage Species Conservation & Management
Forage fish are small, schooling fish that play an essential role in the marine food web. They eat plankton, converting it into food for marine mammals, seabirds and larger, commercially and recreationally important fish. Read more.
