New England Fisheries Managers Set to Unveil Groundfish Stock Assessment: New Data Must Spur Action to End Overfishing, Allow for Recovery CLF Says

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Colin Durrant, CLF Director of Communications
617-850-1722

Boston, MA (August 4, 2008) – New England fisheries managers this week will unveil updated population numbers for key commercial groundfish species, setting the stage for the future of fisheries management in the region. The comprehensive, scientific peer-reviewed assessment of 19 groundfish stocks – including cod, haddock, and flounder – is expected to show that while some species are showing some recovery, many others remain seriously depleted.

The Conservation Law Foundation (CLF), a leading New England environmental group, said the stark data should spur fisheries managers to identify new management solutions that put an end to overfishing, protect habitat and end the wasteful practice of bycatch in which tons of unwanted ocean life is thrown overboard.

“New England’s ocean waters are facing a serious crisis. Now is the time to act quickly to address the long-lasting problems facing our commercial fish species,” said Priscilla Brooks, Director of CLF’s Ocean Conservation Program. “Based on the results of the stock assessment released this week, the region’s fishery managers must move to develop new solutions that allow for recovery of these ocean resources that are so critical to the long-term future of our coastal communities.”

The results of the stock assessment, set to be released at a week-long Groundfish Assessment Review Meeting in Woods Hole, MA, will determine the quantity of fish that can be commercially and recreationally caught in the next few years.

>>For more information visit: http://www.nefsc.noaa.gov/nefsc/saw/

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The Conservation Law Foundation (www.clf.org) works to solve the most significant environmental challenges facing New England. CLF’s advocates use law, economics and science to create innovative strategies to conserve natural resources, protect public health and promote vital communities in our region. Founded, in 1966, CLF is a nonprofit, member-supported organization with offices in Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont.