FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 14, 2020
CONTACT: Jo Knight, jo@conservefish.org
Arlington, VA – Robert C. Vandermark, executive director of the Marine Fish Conservation Network, released the following statement about the latest round table listening session hosted by House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Water, Oceans, and Wildlife Chairman Jared Huffman (D-CA) held today in Miami, FL. This event is part of a nationwide series of public discussions with diverse stakeholders about the management of federal fisheries and oceans.
“Florida and the other states in the South Atlantic are a worldwide destination for fishing enthusiasts and seafood lovers. Our oceans and fisheries are a vital part of the South Atlantic’s economy and culture, and many residents throughout the region depend them for their businesses, jobs, recreation and livelihoods.
“This region in recent years has faced difficult challenges, from devastating algae blooms to warming waters due to climate change. Science-based fisheries management has played an essential role in ensuring the coastal habitats and fisheries in this region have remained healthy and productive for the long term in spite of these challenges.
“Chairman Huffman has concluded another important listening session about the future of our nation’s fisheries management, and as with other regions, many people in the South Atlantic support the Magnuson-Stevens Act because the law’s science-based and conservation-minded approach is working to support our marine resources and coastal communities. We look forward to working with Congress to incorporate the voices of fishermen, anglers, chefs, scientists, and conservationists in the South Atlantic and every region into the reauthorization process, so that our fisheries and ocean resources will continue to thrive for years to come.”
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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.
