FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 21, 2021
CONTACT: Jo Knight, jo@conservefish.org

Network Welcomes Janet Coit as Head of NOAA Fisheries

Arlington, VA – Today, the Department of Commerce announced that Janet Coit of Rhode Island will lead NOAA Fisheries and be the new acting Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere and NOAA deputy administrator. Coit will manage NOAA’s coastal and marine programs effective today. She will replace Paul Doremus, who had been acting NOAA Fisheries assistant administrator since January 2021.

Robert C. Vandermark, executive director of the Marine Fish Conservation Network, released the following statement:

“Janet Coit is a seasoned professional with a deep understanding of the issues facing our marine resources and coastal communities. We are delighted to see someone of her experience at the helm of NOAA Fisheries. Many of the Network’s members have worked with her over the years and are enthusiastic about her appointment. Her experience in state government, in the non-profit sector and on Capitol Hill gives her an extremely comprehensive view of the opportunities and challenges faced by NOAA and the unique ability to work with the wide array of constituencies that depend on the responsible stewardship of the nation’s ocean resources and marine habitat. The Network looks forward to working with her.”

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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.