DEC SEEKING PUBLIC INPUT ON INTERSTATE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR STRIPED BASS

 

Comments on Proposed Management Actions to Rebuild Striped Bass Stocks Due April 15

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is seeking public input on the development of Draft Amendment 7 to the Interstate Fishery Management Plan (FMP) for Atlantic Striped Bass through the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC). The Draft Amendment proposes new options to the FMP to help rebuild the stock and significantly update the management program. DEC encourages New Yorkers to review proposed changes, participate through in-person or virtual webinar events, and provide comments to ASMFC by April 15, 2022.

“From Long Island’s saltwater beaches to the rocky shores along the Hudson River, striped bass are an iconic and historic fishery for New York anglers,” DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos said. “DEC is committed to working collaboratively with the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission and neighboring states as this plan is developed to ensure striped bass are managed sustainably using the best available science and data.”

DEC is hosting two public hearings in New York’s Marine and Coastal District to solicit New Yorkers’ input on the development of the Draft Amendment. Meeting spaces have limited seating capacity and DEC encourages fishing clubs and organizations to send key representatives to provide public comments. Hearings are scheduled:

Wednesday, March 16, 6 to 8 p.m., DEC Division of Marine Resources, 123 Kings Park Blvd, Kings Park; and

Wednesday, March 23, 6 to 8 p.m., DEC Region 3, 21 South Putt Corners Rd., New Paltz.

In addition, audio from the hearings will be livestreamed and participants can listen to the hearings via links available on DEC’s website. Those joining the livestream will be limited to listening only and are encouraged to submit written comments to ASMFC. Public written comments will be accepted until April 15, 2022, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time, and should be sent to Emilie Franke, FMP Coordinator, at 1050 N. Highland St., Suite 200 A-N, Arlington, VA 22201; 703.842.0741 (fax) or at comments@asmfc.org (Subject line: Draft Amendment 7).

ASMFC is hosting additional virtual webinar hearings during March for the public to review the proposed options and provide comments. A recording of the hearing presentation is available on ASMFC’s YouTube page. For more information, visit ASMFC’s website.