Rep. Huffman resumes post-COVID outreach to fishing communities with virtual listening session

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 28, 2020
CONTACT: Jo Knight, jo@conservefish.org

Arlington, VA – House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Water, Oceans, and Wildlife Chairman Jared Huffman (D-CA) scheduled his first listening session since the coronavirus pandemic shut down most of the nation. A diverse group of stakeholders from the New England region joined Rep. Huffman virtually to discuss the future of federal fisheries and oceans management in the U.S. Robert C. Vandermark, executive director of the Marine Fish Conservation Network, released the following statement.

“New England’s coastal communities have built their economic, social and cultural foundation on recreational and commercial fishing and the seafood industry since the early days of our nation’s history. In the past, mismanagement of ocean fisheries threatened countless businesses and livelihoods in the region that depend on these natural resources. Fortunately, Congress had the foresight during the last reauthorization of the Magnuson-Stevens Act to require that fisheries management be based on the best-available science. Strong conservation measures in the law have significantly improved both the health of marine habitats and abundance of ocean fisheries, while also creating greater economic opportunities for businesses and industries nationwide.

“We commend Rep. Huffman’s efforts to listen to the many fishermen, anglers, scientists, chefs, and seafood purveyors who today voiced their support for science-based, conservation-focused fisheries management measures to sustain these vital marine resources and habitats. Congress will have an opportunity to build upon the success of the Magnuson-Stevens Act and create greater support for coastal communities and working waterfronts in New England and around the country. The Marine Fish Conservation Network will work with Congress to ensure healthy and productive fisheries are the bedrock of U.S. fishing and seafood industries for generations 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.