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  Fishery Reform Campaign
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  Cooperative Research
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  Community-Based Management
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  Community Outreach

Fisheries Management

Fisheries are managed based on political boundaries, not on where the fish swim.

There are rules and regulations at the,,, and levels

Understanding how fisheries are managed is not something that is accomplished overnight. Because fish traverse vast expanses of the ocean, the formation of fisheries laws and regulations must be structured by political boundaries, as opposed to fish habitat.

Experts gather at the  regional,  state,  federal and  international level to discuss the most urgent fisheries problems and implement solutions that keep fish populations healthy and sustainable.

The chain of command begins with the Department of Commerce and ends at one of eight regional councils. As information and advice is transferred amongst officials, a system of checks and balances assures that new laws are enforced and that regional laws compliment those established on the national level.

A simple flow chart can help you understand the fishery management process and introduce you to a few of the individuals that are on the forefront of changing the nation’s perspective on the importance of healthy marine ecosystems.

Last updated: September 8, 2005

Today's Catch

Hookers Ball VIII - August 16th.

See the boats unload and visit the Hosts at the Chatham Fish Pier!

Report the tagged fish and receive a prize!

If you catch a haddock or cod with a tag:

• Record

• Call (toll-free): 1-866-447-2111 or e-mail: tagging@gmri.org
• Remove and mail the tag
• Receive your reward!
• Visit our tagging webpage for more information