Catch up with the latest news from TalkingFish.org, a blog brought to you by CLF and other organizations and individuals who want to see a sustainable fishing industry in New England and abundant fish populations for generations to come. TalkingFish.org aims to increase people’s understanding of the scientific, financial and social aspects at work in New England’s fisheries. Here’s what went on this week:
- October 20: “Fish Talk in the News – Thursday, October 20″ – A weekly update of recent news stories that might interest TalkingFish.org readers. This week: reactions to Senators Brown and Ayotte’s bill to end the sector system, an interview with chef Barton Seaver, Senator Kerry’s letter of requests to NOAA Administrator Jane Lubchenco, and NOAA’s announcement that they will fund at-sea monitoring costs through the 2012 fishing year.
Lois Fay
I would like to know details of the Brown/Ayotte bill. In my ignorance, I believed that recent laws and agreements were beginning to show signs of success both for fishermen and our fishery industry, while giving fish a fighting chance of survival. So, what is this all about?
Samantha Caravello
Thanks for your comment, Lois. You can read a good, unbiased overview of the bill here. You are correct in believing that the new sector management system has been very successful in stopping overfishing – of the 20 fish stocks managed under the system, fishermen exceeded catch limits on only one sub-component of one stock, which is a true first for the fishery. Assessing the economic impacts is more confusing. The fact is that the new system, like any management system, created winners and losers in the fishery, and the Brown-Ayotte bill plays off of the (understandable) frustrations of those who are struggling with the new system. However, the sector management system was put into effect by a near-unanimous vote of the New England Fishery Management Council, which is made up of representatives from the states and federal government as well as from the commercial and recreational fishing industry. Furthermore, the Council is already working on implementing new measures that will make the sector system run more smoothly. The sector system has been working for many fishermen, and those fishermen are speaking out in support of the system just as Senators Brown and Ayotte are spreading the views of those who are not happy with the system. We believe that this bill attempts to legislate what should be a participatory democratic process through the Council system.