Cod populations are struggling to bounce back. Photo: Brian Skerry
June 30, 2026 (BOSTON, MA) – The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has just taken a major step toward helping cod populations recover from historically low numbers. The agency has implemented Amendment 25, a regulation that will incorporate the latest scientific understanding of cod populations into plans to manage the species. In February, CLF filed a petition calling for NOAA to adopt this amendment to protect New England’s iconic fish.
A decade of research, including work done in partnership with fishermen, has revealed that there are four distinct cod stocks in New England waters, not two as previously thought. This distinction is vital for creating effective rebuilding plans that will help Atlantic cod not just survive but thrive.
“There’s still time for New England’s depleted cod populations to recover, but these fish need strong, science-based management plans,” said Libby Etrie, director of ocean policy at Conservation Law Foundation. “By accepting the latest science, NOAA is giving cod a chance to make a comeback. All four cod populations in New England should swim a little easier with this new science in place.”
Atlantic cod numbers are hovering near all-time lows. The fish used to be a cornerstone of New England’s oldest industry. Now, commercial targeting of cod has largely disappeared in the region. Amendment 25 will lay the groundwork for stronger regulations in the future.
CLF experts are available for further comment.
###