Webinar Connection Instructions: To join the webinar, go to http://mafmc.adobeconnect.com/bsb-com-allocation-scoping/. Audio connection instructions appear upon connecting, or you can call 800-832-0736 and enter room number 5068871#.

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) will hold two scoping webinars to gather public input on a management action to consider potential modifications to the allocations of the black sea bass commercial quota among the states of Maine through North Carolina. Scoping webinars will be held on Monday, May 11 and Thursday, May 14, 2020. Written comments will be accepted through May 31, 2020.

The Council and the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (Commission) jointly manage black sea bass from Maine through Cape Hatteras, North Carolina. The Council develops regulations for federal waters while the Commission develops regulations for state waters. The black sea bass commercial quota is managed on a coastwide basis in federal waters. In state waters, it is allocated among the states of Maine through North Carolina using percentages loosely based on historical landings from 1980-2001. Under the current allocations, 67% of the annual coastwide quota is divided among the states of New Jersey through North Carolina, and 33% is divided among the states of New York through Maine.

The most recent black sea bass stock assessment shows that spawning stock biomass in the northern region (approximately Maine through Hudson Canyon) has greatly increased since 2002, when the state allocations were first approved, while the amount of biomass in the southern region (approximately south of Hudson Canyon through Cape Hatteras) has not experienced significant change. Some northern region states have noted that changes in availability and distribution have made it increasingly difficult to constrain landings to their current allocations. The Council and Commission initiated this action to consider whether changes should be made to the state allocations and whether these allocations should be managed under both the Commission and Council Fishery Management Plans (FMPs), rather than only under the Commission’s FMP as is currently the case.

The scoping period is an important opportunity for members of the public to provide input on the range of management alternatives that should be considered in this action. Scoping comments will help the Council and Commission ensure that public concerns are addressed in a thorough and appropriate manner. An additional public comment period will be held later in 2020 to solicit input on preferred alternatives.

• View the Scoping Document

Hearing Schedule

Both scoping hearings will be conducted by webinar.  

1. Monday May 11, 2020, 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm EDT

2. Thursday May 14, 2020, 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm EDT

To join the webinar, go to http://mafmc.adobeconnect.com/bsb-com-allocation-scoping/. Telephone connection instructions appear upon connecting, or you can call 800-832-0736 and enter room number 5068871#. You must call by phone to ask questions and provide comments.

Written Comments

In addition to providing comments at either of the scoping hearing webinars, you may submit written comments by 11:59 pm EDT on Sunday May 31, 2020. Written comments may be sent by any of the following methods:

1. ONLINE: http://www.mafmc.org/comments/bsb-com-allocation-amendment

2. EMAIL: jbeaty@mafmc.org

3. MAIL: Dr. Christopher Moore, Executive Director
   Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council
   800 North State Street, Suite 201
   Dover, DE 19901

4. FAX: 302.674.5399

Please include "Black Sea Bass Commercial Allocation Amendment" in the subject line if using email or fax, or on the outside of the envelope if submitting written comments. All comments, regardless of submission method, will be shared with the Commission and Council and will be made publicly available on their respective websites. It is not necessary to submit the same comments to both the Council and Commission or through multiple channels.

Learn More

For additional information and updates on development of this action, please visit http://www.mafmc.org/actions/bsb-commercial-allocation. The scoping document contains background information and details on potential management approaches.

Contact

Please direct any questions about the amendment to Julia Beaty, Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, at jbeaty@mafmc.org or (302) 526-5250.

This scoping hearing will be held via webinar. To join the webinar, go to http://mafmc.adobeconnect.com/bf_allocation_rebuilding_scoping/. Audio connection instructions will pop up automatically when you join the webinar. For audio-only access, dial 800-832-0736 and enter room number 5068609.

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) will hold eleven supplemental scoping hearings to gather public input for the Bluefish Allocation and Rebuilding Amendment. The Council is developing this action in cooperation with the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (Commission) in order to (1) update the goals and objectives of the Bluefish Fishery Management Plan (FMP); (2) perform a comprehensive review of the bluefish sector allocations, commercial allocations to the states, and transfer processes; and (3) initiate a bluefish rebuilding plan. Scoping hearings will be held between February 13 and March 4, 2020. Written comments will be accepted through March 17, 2020.

An initial round of scoping was conducted in the summer of 2018 to gauge public interest in the development of an amendment. Since then, recalibrated Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP) estimates became available and were incorporated into the 2019 bluefish operational assessment. The assessment concluded that the stock was overfished but not experiencing overfishing. The Council and Commission subsequently recommended including the rebuilding plan into this ongoing amendment. Because the additional issue modifies the scope of the amendment, the Council is holding additional hearings to provide the public ample opportunities to comment on the expanded scope of the amendment.

Public comments during scoping will help the Council address issues of public concern in a thorough and appropriate manner. Some management questions for consideration in this amendment include:

• Are the existing goals and objectives appropriate for managing the bluefish fishery?

• Is the existing allocation between the commercial and recreational sectors based on the annual catch limit appropriate for managing the bluefish fishery?

• Are the existing commercial state allocations appropriate for managing the bluefish fishery?

• Are the existing transfer processes appropriate for managing the bluefish fishery?

• What is the appropriate approach to take for rebuilding?

Learn More

The Supplemental Scoping and Public Information Document linked below contains background information on bluefish management and on issues that may be addressed in the amendment. Additional information and updates on development of this amendment are available on the Council’s website at http://www.mafmc.org/actions/bluefish-allocation-amendment.

• Scoping and Public Information Document

Contact

Please direct any questions about the amendment to Matt Seeley, (302) 526-5262, mseeley@mafmc.org.

Hearing Schedule

1. February 13, 2020, 7:30-9:00 PM – Massachusetts Maritime Academy, Admiral's Hall, 101 Academy Drive, Buzzards Bay, MA 02532

2. February 18, 2020, 6:00-8:00 PM – Ocean County Administration Building – Room 119, 101 Hooper Avenue, Toms River, New Jersey 08753

3. February 19, 2020, 7:00-8:00 PM – Delaware Dept. of Natural Resources & Environmental Control Auditorium Richardson & Robbins Building, 89 Kings Highway, Dover, Delaware 19901

4. February 25, 2020, 4:45-6:00 PM – Berlin Library, 13 Harrison Ave. Berlin, MD 21811

5. February 26, 2020, 7:30-9:00 PM – University of Rhode Island Bay Campus, Corless Auditorium, South Ferry Road, Narragansett, Rhode Island 02882

6. February 26, 2020, 8:00-9:00 PM – Connecticut Dept. of Energy and Environmental Protection Marine Headquarters Boating Education Center (Rear Building), 333 Ferry Road, Old Lyme, CT 06371

7. February 27, 2020, 6:00-7:30 PM – NC Division of Marine Fisheries Central District Office, 5285 Highway 70 West, Morehead City, North Carolina 28557

8. February 27, 2020, 7:30-9:00 PM – Stony Brook University, School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences, Room 120 Endeavour Hall; Stony Brook, NY 11794

9. March 2, 2020, 6:00-8:00 PM – Merritt Island Service Center Complex, 2575 N. Courtenay Pkwy #205, Merritt Island, FL 32953

10. March 2, 2020, 6:00-7:00 PM – Virginia Marine Resources Commission, 380 Fenwick Road Bldg 96 Fort Monroe, VA 23651

11. March 4, 2020, 6:00-7:30 PM – Internet webinar: http://mafmc.adobeconnect.com/bf_allocation_rebuilding_scoping/, For audio-only access, dial 800-832-0736 and enter room number 5068609.

Please note that some hearings will be held immediately before or after scoping hearings for an ongoing Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Commercial/Recreational Allocation Amendment. A schedule for those hearings is available at http://www.mafmc.org/newsfeed/2020/mafmc-asmfc-sfsbsb-allocation-scoping-hearings.  

Written Comments

In addition to providing comments at any of the scheduled public hearings, you may submit written comments by 11:59 pm EDT on Tuesday, March 17, 2020. Written comments may be sent by any of the following methods:

1. ONLINE: http://www.mafmc.org/comments/bluefish-allocation-rebuilding-amendment

2. EMAIL: mseeley@mafmc.org

3. MAIL or FAX: Dr. Christopher Moore, Executive Director
   Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council
   800 North State Street, Suite 201
   Dover, DE 19901
   FAX: 302.674.5399

Please include “Bluefish Scoping Comments” in the subject line if using email or fax, or on the outside of the envelope if submitting written comments. All comments, regardless of submission method, will be compiled into a single document for review and consideration by both the Council and Commission.

To join the webinar, go to http://mafmc.adobeconnect.com/sfsbsb_com_rec_allocation_scoping/. Audio connection instructions will pop up automatically. For audio-only access, dial 1-800-832-0736 and enter room number 5068871. If you have questions or issues, please contact Julia Beaty, jbeaty@mafmc.org, (302) 526-5250.

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) and the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (Commission) have scheduled a series of scoping hearings to gather public input on the range of issues and information to be considered in the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Commercial/Recreational Allocation Amendment. Hearings will be held February 13 – March 3. Written comments will be accepted through March 17, 2020. All comments provided at public hearings or in writing will be presented to the Council and Commission. 

This amendment will consider potential modifications to the allocations of catch or landings between the commercial and recreational sectors for summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass. The commercial and recreational allocations for all three species were set in the mid-1990s based on historical proportions of landings (for summer flounder and black sea bass) or catch (for scup) from each sector. In July 2018, the Marine Recreational Information Program released revisions to its time series of catch (harvest and discards) estimates. These revisions resulted in much higher recreational catch estimates compared to previous estimates, affecting the entire time series of data going back to 1981. Some changes have also been made to commercial catch data since the allocations were established. The current commercial and recreational allocation percentages for all three species do not reflect the current understanding of the recent and historic proportions of catch and landings from the two sectors. This amendment will consider whether changes to these allocations are warranted.

Scoping is the first and best opportunity to raise concerns related to the scope of issues that will be considered. You are encouraged to submit comments on which options may or may not be useful or practical for meeting the goal of this action and any other relevant issues the Council and Commission should consider.

Learn More

The Scoping and Public Information Document linked below contains background information on summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass management and on issues that may be addressed in the amendment, as well as a description of the amendment process and timeline. Additional information and updates on development of this amendment are available on the amendment action page.

• Scoping and Public Information Document

Contacts

• Julia Beaty, Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, jbeaty@mafmc.org, 302-526-5250

• Dustin Colson Leaning, Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, dleaning@asmfc.org, 703-842-0740

Hearing Schedule

1. Thursday, February 13, 6:00-7:30 PM - Massachusetts Maritime Academy, Admiral’s Hall, 101 Academy Drive, Buzzards Bay, MA 02532; Contact: Nichola Meserve, 617-626-1531.

2. Wednesday, February 19, 6:00-7:00 PM - Delaware Dept. of Natural Resources & Environmental Control, DNREC Auditorium, Richards & Robbins Building, 89 Kings Highway, Dover, DE 19901; Contact: John Clark, 302-739-9914.

3. Monday, February 24, 6:00-8:00 PM - Belmar Municipal Court Room, 601 Main Street, Belmar, NJ 07719; Contact: Joe Cimino, 609-748-2020.

4. Tuesday, February 25, 3:30-4:45 PM - Berlin Library, 13 Harrison Avenue, Berlin, MD 21811; Contact: Steve Doctor, 410-213-1531.

5. Tuesday, February 25, 6:00-8:00 PM - Galloway Township Branch Library, 306 East Jimmie Leeds Road, Galloway, NJ 08205; Contact: Joe Cimino, 609-748-2020.

6. Tuesday, February 25, 6:00-8:00 PM - North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries, Pamlico District Office, 943 Washington Square Mall, US Highway 17, Washington, NC 27889; Contact: Chris Batsavage, 252-808-8009.

7. Wednesday, February 26, 6:00-7:30 PM - University of Rhode Island Bay Campus, Corless Auditorium, South Ferry Road, Narragansett, RI 02882; Contact: Jason McNamee, 401-423-1943.

8. Wednesday, February 26, 7:00-8:00 PM - Connecticut Dept. of Energy and Environmental Protection Marine Headquarters Boating Education Center (Rear Building), 333 Ferry Road, Old Lyme, CT 06371; Contact: Justin Davis, 860-447-4322.

9. Thursday, February 27, 6:00-7:30 PM - Stony Brook University, School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences, Room 120 Endeavor Hall, Stony Brook, NY 11794-5000; Contact: Maureen Davidson, 631-444-0483.

10. Monday, March 2, 5:00-6:00 PM - Virginia Marine Resources Commission, 380 Fenwick Road, Building 96, Fort Monroe, VA 23651; Contact: Patrick Geer, 757-247-2078.

11. Tuesday, March 3, 6:00-7:30 PM - Internet Webinar, http://mafmc.adobeconnect.com/sfsbsb_com_rec_allocation_scoping/, Audio: 1-800-832-0736 and entering room number 5068871; Contact: Julia Beaty, 302-526-5250.

Please note that some hearings will be held in conjunction with (immediately before or after) supplemental scoping hearings for an ongoing Bluefish Allocation Amendment. A schedule for the bluefish hearings will be posted at: http://www.mafmc.org/actions/bluefish-allocation-amendment.

Written Comments

In addition to providing comments at any of the scheduled public hearings, you may submit written comments by 11:59 pm EDT on Tuesday, March 17, 2020. Written comments may be sent by any of the following methods:

1. ONLINE: http://www.mafmc.org/comments/sfsbsb-allocation-amendment

2. EMAIL: jbeaty@mafmc.org

3. MAIL or FAX: Dr. Christopher Moore, Executive Director
   Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council
   800 North State Street, Suite 201

   Dover, DE 19901

   FAX: 302.674.5399

Please include “Fluke/Scup/Sea Bass Allocation Amendment” in the subject line if using email or fax, or on the outside of the envelope if submitting written comments. All comments, regardless of submission method, will be compiled into a single document for review and consideration by both the Council and Commission. Please do not send separate comments to the Council and Commission.

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) will hold eleven supplemental scoping hearings to gather public input for the Bluefish Allocation and Rebuilding Amendment. The Council is developing this action in cooperation with the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (Commission) in order to (1) update the goals and objectives of the Bluefish Fishery Management Plan (FMP); (2) perform a comprehensive review of the bluefish sector allocations, commercial allocations to the states, and transfer processes; and (3) initiate a bluefish rebuilding plan. Scoping hearings will be held between February 13 and March 4, 2020. Written comments will be accepted through March 17, 2020.

An initial round of scoping was conducted in the summer of 2018 to gauge public interest in the development of an amendment. Since then, recalibrated Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP) estimates became available and were incorporated into the 2019 bluefish operational assessment. The assessment concluded that the stock was overfished but not experiencing overfishing. The Council and Commission subsequently recommended including the rebuilding plan into this ongoing amendment. Because the additional issue modifies the scope of the amendment, the Council is holding additional hearings to provide the public ample opportunities to comment on the expanded scope of the amendment.

Public comments during scoping will help the Council address issues of public concern in a thorough and appropriate manner. Some management questions for consideration in this amendment include:

• Are the existing goals and objectives appropriate for managing the bluefish fishery?

• Is the existing allocation between the commercial and recreational sectors based on the annual catch limit appropriate for managing the bluefish fishery?

• Are the existing commercial state allocations appropriate for managing the bluefish fishery?

• Are the existing transfer processes appropriate for managing the bluefish fishery?

• What is the appropriate approach to take for rebuilding?

Learn More

The Supplemental Scoping and Public Information Document linked below contains background information on bluefish management and on issues that may be addressed in the amendment. Additional information and updates on development of this amendment are available on the Council’s website at http://www.mafmc.org/actions/bluefish-allocation-amendment.

• Scoping and Public Information Document

Contact

Please direct any questions about the amendment to Matt Seeley, (302) 526-5262, mseeley@mafmc.org.

Hearing Schedule

1. February 13, 2020, 7:30-9:00 PM – Massachusetts Maritime Academy, Admiral's Hall, 101 Academy Drive, Buzzards Bay, MA 02532

2. February 18, 2020, 6:00-8:00 PM – Ocean County Administration Building – Room 119, 101 Hooper Avenue, Toms River, New Jersey 08753

3. February 19, 2020, 7:00-8:00 PM – Delaware Dept. of Natural Resources & Environmental Control Auditorium Richardson & Robbins Building, 89 Kings Highway, Dover, Delaware 19901

4. February 25, 2020, 4:45-6:00 PM – Berlin Library, 13 Harrison Ave. Berlin, MD 21811

5. February 26, 2020, 7:30-9:00 PM – University of Rhode Island Bay Campus, Corless Auditorium, South Ferry Road, Narragansett, Rhode Island 02882

6. February 26, 2020, 8:00-9:00 PM – Connecticut Dept. of Energy and Environmental Protection Marine Headquarters Boating Education Center (Rear Building), 333 Ferry Road, Old Lyme, CT 06371

7. February 27, 2020, 6:00-7:30 PM – NC Division of Marine Fisheries Central District Office, 5285 Highway 70 West, Morehead City, North Carolina 28557

8. February 27, 2020, 7:30-9:00 PM – Stony Brook University, School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences, Room 120 Endeavour Hall; Stony Brook, NY 11794

9. March 2, 2020, 6:00-8:00 PM – Merritt Island Service Center Complex, 2575 N. Courtenay Pkwy #205, Merritt Island, FL 32953

10. March 2, 2020, 6:00-7:00 PM – Virginia Marine Resources Commission, 380 Fenwick Road Bldg 96 Fort Monroe, VA 23651

11. March 4, 2020, 6:00-7:30 PM – Internet webinar: http://mafmc.adobeconnect.com/bf_allocation_rebuilding_scoping/, For audio-only access, dial 800-832-0736 and enter room number 5068609.

Please note that some hearings will be held immediately before or after scoping hearings for an ongoing Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Commercial/Recreational Allocation Amendment. A schedule for those hearings is available at http://www.mafmc.org/newsfeed/2020/mafmc-asmfc-sfsbsb-allocation-scoping-hearings.  

Written Comments

In addition to providing comments at any of the scheduled public hearings, you may submit written comments by 11:59 pm EDT on Tuesday, March 17, 2020. Written comments may be sent by any of the following methods:

1. ONLINE: http://www.mafmc.org/comments/bluefish-allocation-rebuilding-amendment

2. EMAIL: mseeley@mafmc.org

3. MAIL or FAX: Dr. Christopher Moore, Executive Director
   Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council
   800 North State Street, Suite 201
   Dover, DE 19901
   FAX: 302.674.5399

Please include “Bluefish Scoping Comments” in the subject line if using email or fax, or on the outside of the envelope if submitting written comments. All comments, regardless of submission method, will be compiled into a single document for review and consideration by both the Council and Commission.

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) will hold eleven supplemental scoping hearings to gather public input for the Bluefish Allocation and Rebuilding Amendment. The Council is developing this action in cooperation with the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (Commission) in order to (1) update the goals and objectives of the Bluefish Fishery Management Plan (FMP); (2) perform a comprehensive review of the bluefish sector allocations, commercial allocations to the states, and transfer processes; and (3) initiate a bluefish rebuilding plan. Scoping hearings will be held between February 13 and March 4, 2020. Written comments will be accepted through March 17, 2020.

An initial round of scoping was conducted in the summer of 2018 to gauge public interest in the development of an amendment. Since then, recalibrated Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP) estimates became available and were incorporated into the 2019 bluefish operational assessment. The assessment concluded that the stock was overfished but not experiencing overfishing. The Council and Commission subsequently recommended including the rebuilding plan into this ongoing amendment. Because the additional issue modifies the scope of the amendment, the Council is holding additional hearings to provide the public ample opportunities to comment on the expanded scope of the amendment.

Public comments during scoping will help the Council address issues of public concern in a thorough and appropriate manner. Some management questions for consideration in this amendment include:

• Are the existing goals and objectives appropriate for managing the bluefish fishery?

• Is the existing allocation between the commercial and recreational sectors based on the annual catch limit appropriate for managing the bluefish fishery?

• Are the existing commercial state allocations appropriate for managing the bluefish fishery?

• Are the existing transfer processes appropriate for managing the bluefish fishery?

• What is the appropriate approach to take for rebuilding?

Learn More

The Supplemental Scoping and Public Information Document linked below contains background information on bluefish management and on issues that may be addressed in the amendment. Additional information and updates on development of this amendment are available on the Council’s website at http://www.mafmc.org/actions/bluefish-allocation-amendment.

• Scoping and Public Information Document

Contact

Please direct any questions about the amendment to Matt Seeley, (302) 526-5262, mseeley@mafmc.org.

Hearing Schedule

1. February 13, 2020, 7:30-9:00 PM – Massachusetts Maritime Academy, Admiral's Hall, 101 Academy Drive, Buzzards Bay, MA 02532

2. February 18, 2020, 6:00-8:00 PM – Ocean County Administration Building – Room 119, 101 Hooper Avenue, Toms River, New Jersey 08753

3. February 19, 2020, 7:00-8:00 PM – Delaware Dept. of Natural Resources & Environmental Control Auditorium Richardson & Robbins Building, 89 Kings Highway, Dover, Delaware 19901

4. February 25, 2020, 4:45-6:00 PM – Berlin Library, 13 Harrison Ave. Berlin, MD 21811

5. February 26, 2020, 7:30-9:00 PM – University of Rhode Island Bay Campus, Corless Auditorium, South Ferry Road, Narragansett, Rhode Island 02882

6. February 26, 2020, 8:00-9:00 PM – Connecticut Dept. of Energy and Environmental Protection Marine Headquarters Boating Education Center (Rear Building), 333 Ferry Road, Old Lyme, CT 06371

7. February 27, 2020, 6:00-7:30 PM – NC Division of Marine Fisheries Central District Office, 5285 Highway 70 West, Morehead City, North Carolina 28557

8. February 27, 2020, 7:30-9:00 PM – Stony Brook University, School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences, Room 120 Endeavour Hall; Stony Brook, NY 11794

9. March 2, 2020, 6:00-8:00 PM – Merritt Island Service Center Complex, 2575 N. Courtenay Pkwy #205, Merritt Island, FL 32953

10. March 2, 2020, 6:00-7:00 PM – Virginia Marine Resources Commission, 380 Fenwick Road Bldg 96 Fort Monroe, VA 23651

11. March 4, 2020, 6:00-7:30 PM – Internet webinar: http://mafmc.adobeconnect.com/bf_allocation_rebuilding_scoping/, For audio-only access, dial 800-832-0736 and enter room number 5068609.

Please note that some hearings will be held immediately before or after scoping hearings for an ongoing Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Commercial/Recreational Allocation Amendment. A schedule for those hearings is available at http://www.mafmc.org/newsfeed/2020/mafmc-asmfc-sfsbsb-allocation-scoping-hearings.  

Written Comments

In addition to providing comments at any of the scheduled public hearings, you may submit written comments by 11:59 pm EDT on Tuesday, March 17, 2020. Written comments may be sent by any of the following methods:

1. ONLINE: http://www.mafmc.org/comments/bluefish-allocation-rebuilding-amendment

2. EMAIL: mseeley@mafmc.org

3. MAIL or FAX: Dr. Christopher Moore, Executive Director
   Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council
   800 North State Street, Suite 201
   Dover, DE 19901
   FAX: 302.674.5399

Please include “Bluefish Scoping Comments” in the subject line if using email or fax, or on the outside of the envelope if submitting written comments. All comments, regardless of submission method, will be compiled into a single document for review and consideration by both the Council and Commission.

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) and the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (Commission) have scheduled a series of scoping hearings to gather public input on the range of issues and information to be considered in the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Commercial/Recreational Allocation Amendment. Hearings will be held February 13 – March 3. Written comments will be accepted through March 17, 2020. All comments provided at public hearings or in writing will be presented to the Council and Commission. 

This amendment will consider potential modifications to the allocations of catch or landings between the commercial and recreational sectors for summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass. The commercial and recreational allocations for all three species were set in the mid-1990s based on historical proportions of landings (for summer flounder and black sea bass) or catch (for scup) from each sector. In July 2018, the Marine Recreational Information Program released revisions to its time series of catch (harvest and discards) estimates. These revisions resulted in much higher recreational catch estimates compared to previous estimates, affecting the entire time series of data going back to 1981. Some changes have also been made to commercial catch data since the allocations were established. The current commercial and recreational allocation percentages for all three species do not reflect the current understanding of the recent and historic proportions of catch and landings from the two sectors. This amendment will consider whether changes to these allocations are warranted.

Scoping is the first and best opportunity to raise concerns related to the scope of issues that will be considered. You are encouraged to submit comments on which options may or may not be useful or practical for meeting the goal of this action and any other relevant issues the Council and Commission should consider.

Learn More

The Scoping and Public Information Document linked below contains background information on summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass management and on issues that may be addressed in the amendment, as well as a description of the amendment process and timeline. Additional information and updates on development of this amendment are available on the amendment action page.

• Scoping and Public Information Document

Contacts

• Julia Beaty, Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, jbeaty@mafmc.org, 302-526-5250

• Dustin Colson Leaning, Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, dleaning@asmfc.org, 703-842-0740

Hearing Schedule

1. Thursday, February 13, 6:00-7:30 PM - Massachusetts Maritime Academy, Admiral’s Hall, 101 Academy Drive, Buzzards Bay, MA 02532; Contact: Nichola Meserve, 617-626-1531.

2. Wednesday, February 19, 6:00-7:00 PM - Delaware Dept. of Natural Resources & Environmental Control, DNREC Auditorium, Richards & Robbins Building, 89 Kings Highway, Dover, DE 19901; Contact: John Clark, 302-739-9914.

3. Monday, February 24, 6:00-8:00 PM - Belmar Municipal Court Room, 601 Main Street, Belmar, NJ 07719; Contact: Joe Cimino, 609-748-2020.

4. Tuesday, February 25, 3:30-4:45 PM - Berlin Library, 13 Harrison Avenue, Berlin, MD 21811; Contact: Steve Doctor, 410-213-1531.

5. Tuesday, February 25, 6:00-8:00 PM - Galloway Township Branch Library, 306 East Jimmie Leeds Road, Galloway, NJ 08205; Contact: Joe Cimino, 609-748-2020.

6. Tuesday, February 25, 6:00-8:00 PM - North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries, Pamlico District Office, 943 Washington Square Mall, US Highway 17, Washington, NC 27889; Contact: Chris Batsavage, 252-808-8009.

7. Wednesday, February 26, 6:00-7:30 PM - University of Rhode Island Bay Campus, Corless Auditorium, South Ferry Road, Narragansett, RI 02882; Contact: Jason McNamee, 401-423-1943.

8. Wednesday, February 26, 7:00-8:00 PM - Connecticut Dept. of Energy and Environmental Protection Marine Headquarters Boating Education Center (Rear Building), 333 Ferry Road, Old Lyme, CT 06371; Contact: Justin Davis, 860-447-4322.

9. Thursday, February 27, 6:00-7:30 PM - Stony Brook University, School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences, Room 120 Endeavor Hall, Stony Brook, NY 11794-5000; Contact: Maureen Davidson, 631-444-0483.

10. Monday, March 2, 5:00-6:00 PM - Virginia Marine Resources Commission, 380 Fenwick Road, Building 96, Fort Monroe, VA 23651; Contact: Patrick Geer, 757-247-2078.

11. Tuesday, March 3, 6:00-7:30 PM - Internet Webinar, http://mafmc.adobeconnect.com/sfsbsb_com_rec_allocation_scoping/, Audio: 1-800-832-0736 and entering room number 5068871; Contact: Julia Beaty, 302-526-5250.

Please note that some hearings will be held in conjunction with (immediately before or after) supplemental scoping hearings for an ongoing Bluefish Allocation Amendment. A schedule for the bluefish hearings will be posted at: http://www.mafmc.org/actions/bluefish-allocation-amendment.

Written Comments

In addition to providing comments at any of the scheduled public hearings, you may submit written comments by 11:59 pm EDT on Tuesday, March 17, 2020. Written comments may be sent by any of the following methods:

1. ONLINE: http://www.mafmc.org/comments/sfsbsb-allocation-amendment

2. EMAIL: jbeaty@mafmc.org

3. MAIL or FAX: Dr. Christopher Moore, Executive Director
   Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council
   800 North State Street, Suite 201

   Dover, DE 19901

   FAX: 302.674.5399

Please include “Fluke/Scup/Sea Bass Allocation Amendment” in the subject line if using email or fax, or on the outside of the envelope if submitting written comments. All comments, regardless of submission method, will be compiled into a single document for review and consideration by both the Council and Commission. Please do not send separate comments to the Council and Commission.

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) will hold eleven supplemental scoping hearings to gather public input for the Bluefish Allocation and Rebuilding Amendment. The Council is developing this action in cooperation with the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (Commission) in order to (1) update the goals and objectives of the Bluefish Fishery Management Plan (FMP); (2) perform a comprehensive review of the bluefish sector allocations, commercial allocations to the states, and transfer processes; and (3) initiate a bluefish rebuilding plan. Scoping hearings will be held between February 13 and March 4, 2020. Written comments will be accepted through March 17, 2020.

An initial round of scoping was conducted in the summer of 2018 to gauge public interest in the development of an amendment. Since then, recalibrated Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP) estimates became available and were incorporated into the 2019 bluefish operational assessment. The assessment concluded that the stock was overfished but not experiencing overfishing. The Council and Commission subsequently recommended including the rebuilding plan into this ongoing amendment. Because the additional issue modifies the scope of the amendment, the Council is holding additional hearings to provide the public ample opportunities to comment on the expanded scope of the amendment.

Public comments during scoping will help the Council address issues of public concern in a thorough and appropriate manner. Some management questions for consideration in this amendment include:

• Are the existing goals and objectives appropriate for managing the bluefish fishery?

• Is the existing allocation between the commercial and recreational sectors based on the annual catch limit appropriate for managing the bluefish fishery?

• Are the existing commercial state allocations appropriate for managing the bluefish fishery?

• Are the existing transfer processes appropriate for managing the bluefish fishery?

• What is the appropriate approach to take for rebuilding?

Learn More

The Supplemental Scoping and Public Information Document linked below contains background information on bluefish management and on issues that may be addressed in the amendment. Additional information and updates on development of this amendment are available on the Council’s website at http://www.mafmc.org/actions/bluefish-allocation-amendment.

• Scoping and Public Information Document

Contact

Please direct any questions about the amendment to Matt Seeley, (302) 526-5262, mseeley@mafmc.org.

Hearing Schedule

1. February 13, 2020, 7:30-9:00 PM – Massachusetts Maritime Academy, Admiral's Hall, 101 Academy Drive, Buzzards Bay, MA 02532

2. February 18, 2020, 6:00-8:00 PM – Ocean County Administration Building – Room 119, 101 Hooper Avenue, Toms River, New Jersey 08753

3. February 19, 2020, 7:00-8:00 PM – Delaware Dept. of Natural Resources & Environmental Control Auditorium Richardson & Robbins Building, 89 Kings Highway, Dover, Delaware 19901

4. February 25, 2020, 4:45-6:00 PM – Berlin Library, 13 Harrison Ave. Berlin, MD 21811

5. February 26, 2020, 7:30-9:00 PM – University of Rhode Island Bay Campus, Corless Auditorium, South Ferry Road, Narragansett, Rhode Island 02882

6. February 26, 2020, 8:00-9:00 PM – Connecticut Dept. of Energy and Environmental Protection Marine Headquarters Boating Education Center (Rear Building), 333 Ferry Road, Old Lyme, CT 06371

7. February 27, 2020, 6:00-7:30 PM – NC Division of Marine Fisheries Central District Office, 5285 Highway 70 West, Morehead City, North Carolina 28557

8. February 27, 2020, 7:30-9:00 PM – Stony Brook University, School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences, Room 120 Endeavour Hall; Stony Brook, NY 11794

9. March 2, 2020, 6:00-8:00 PM – Merritt Island Service Center Complex, 2575 N. Courtenay Pkwy #205, Merritt Island, FL 32953

10. March 2, 2020, 6:00-7:00 PM – Virginia Marine Resources Commission, 380 Fenwick Road Bldg 96 Fort Monroe, VA 23651

11. March 4, 2020, 6:00-7:30 PM – Internet webinar: http://mafmc.adobeconnect.com/bf_allocation_rebuilding_scoping/, For audio-only access, dial 800-832-0736 and enter room number 5068609.

Please note that some hearings will be held immediately before or after scoping hearings for an ongoing Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Commercial/Recreational Allocation Amendment. A schedule for those hearings is available at http://www.mafmc.org/newsfeed/2020/mafmc-asmfc-sfsbsb-allocation-scoping-hearings.  

Written Comments

In addition to providing comments at any of the scheduled public hearings, you may submit written comments by 11:59 pm EDT on Tuesday, March 17, 2020. Written comments may be sent by any of the following methods:

1. ONLINE: http://www.mafmc.org/comments/bluefish-allocation-rebuilding-amendment

2. EMAIL: mseeley@mafmc.org

3. MAIL or FAX: Dr. Christopher Moore, Executive Director
   Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council
   800 North State Street, Suite 201
   Dover, DE 19901
   FAX: 302.674.5399

Please include “Bluefish Scoping Comments” in the subject line if using email or fax, or on the outside of the envelope if submitting written comments. All comments, regardless of submission method, will be compiled into a single document for review and consideration by both the Council and Commission.

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) will hold eleven supplemental scoping hearings to gather public input for the Bluefish Allocation and Rebuilding Amendment. The Council is developing this action in cooperation with the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (Commission) in order to (1) update the goals and objectives of the Bluefish Fishery Management Plan (FMP); (2) perform a comprehensive review of the bluefish sector allocations, commercial allocations to the states, and transfer processes; and (3) initiate a bluefish rebuilding plan. Scoping hearings will be held between February 13 and March 4, 2020. Written comments will be accepted through March 17, 2020.

An initial round of scoping was conducted in the summer of 2018 to gauge public interest in the development of an amendment. Since then, recalibrated Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP) estimates became available and were incorporated into the 2019 bluefish operational assessment. The assessment concluded that the stock was overfished but not experiencing overfishing. The Council and Commission subsequently recommended including the rebuilding plan into this ongoing amendment. Because the additional issue modifies the scope of the amendment, the Council is holding additional hearings to provide the public ample opportunities to comment on the expanded scope of the amendment.

Public comments during scoping will help the Council address issues of public concern in a thorough and appropriate manner. Some management questions for consideration in this amendment include:

• Are the existing goals and objectives appropriate for managing the bluefish fishery?

• Is the existing allocation between the commercial and recreational sectors based on the annual catch limit appropriate for managing the bluefish fishery?

• Are the existing commercial state allocations appropriate for managing the bluefish fishery?

• Are the existing transfer processes appropriate for managing the bluefish fishery?

• What is the appropriate approach to take for rebuilding?

Learn More

The Supplemental Scoping and Public Information Document linked below contains background information on bluefish management and on issues that may be addressed in the amendment. Additional information and updates on development of this amendment are available on the Council’s website at http://www.mafmc.org/actions/bluefish-allocation-amendment.

• Scoping and Public Information Document

Contact

Please direct any questions about the amendment to Matt Seeley, (302) 526-5262, mseeley@mafmc.org.

Hearing Schedule

1. February 13, 2020, 7:30-9:00 PM – Massachusetts Maritime Academy, Admiral's Hall, 101 Academy Drive, Buzzards Bay, MA 02532

2. February 18, 2020, 6:00-8:00 PM – Ocean County Administration Building – Room 119, 101 Hooper Avenue, Toms River, New Jersey 08753

3. February 19, 2020, 7:00-8:00 PM – Delaware Dept. of Natural Resources & Environmental Control Auditorium Richardson & Robbins Building, 89 Kings Highway, Dover, Delaware 19901

4. February 25, 2020, 4:45-6:00 PM – Berlin Library, 13 Harrison Ave. Berlin, MD 21811

5. February 26, 2020, 7:30-9:00 PM – University of Rhode Island Bay Campus, Corless Auditorium, South Ferry Road, Narragansett, Rhode Island 02882

6. February 26, 2020, 8:00-9:00 PM – Connecticut Dept. of Energy and Environmental Protection Marine Headquarters Boating Education Center (Rear Building), 333 Ferry Road, Old Lyme, CT 06371

7. February 27, 2020, 6:00-7:30 PM – NC Division of Marine Fisheries Central District Office, 5285 Highway 70 West, Morehead City, North Carolina 28557

8. February 27, 2020, 7:30-9:00 PM – Stony Brook University, School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences, Room 120 Endeavour Hall; Stony Brook, NY 11794

9. March 2, 2020, 6:00-8:00 PM – Merritt Island Service Center Complex, 2575 N. Courtenay Pkwy #205, Merritt Island, FL 32953

10. March 2, 2020, 6:00-7:00 PM – Virginia Marine Resources Commission, 380 Fenwick Road Bldg 96 Fort Monroe, VA 23651

11. March 4, 2020, 6:00-7:30 PM – Internet webinar: http://mafmc.adobeconnect.com/bf_allocation_rebuilding_scoping/, For audio-only access, dial 800-832-0736 and enter room number 5068609.

Please note that some hearings will be held immediately before or after scoping hearings for an ongoing Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Commercial/Recreational Allocation Amendment. A schedule for those hearings is available at http://www.mafmc.org/newsfeed/2020/mafmc-asmfc-sfsbsb-allocation-scoping-hearings.  

Written Comments

In addition to providing comments at any of the scheduled public hearings, you may submit written comments by 11:59 pm EDT on Tuesday, March 17, 2020. Written comments may be sent by any of the following methods:

1. ONLINE: http://www.mafmc.org/comments/bluefish-allocation-rebuilding-amendment

2. EMAIL: mseeley@mafmc.org

3. MAIL or FAX: Dr. Christopher Moore, Executive Director
   Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council
   800 North State Street, Suite 201
   Dover, DE 19901
   FAX: 302.674.5399

Please include “Bluefish Scoping Comments” in the subject line if using email or fax, or on the outside of the envelope if submitting written comments. All comments, regardless of submission method, will be compiled into a single document for review and consideration by both the Council and Commission.

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) and the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (Commission) have scheduled a series of scoping hearings to gather public input on the range of issues and information to be considered in the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Commercial/Recreational Allocation Amendment. Hearings will be held February 13 – March 3. Written comments will be accepted through March 17, 2020. All comments provided at public hearings or in writing will be presented to the Council and Commission. 

This amendment will consider potential modifications to the allocations of catch or landings between the commercial and recreational sectors for summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass. The commercial and recreational allocations for all three species were set in the mid-1990s based on historical proportions of landings (for summer flounder and black sea bass) or catch (for scup) from each sector. In July 2018, the Marine Recreational Information Program released revisions to its time series of catch (harvest and discards) estimates. These revisions resulted in much higher recreational catch estimates compared to previous estimates, affecting the entire time series of data going back to 1981. Some changes have also been made to commercial catch data since the allocations were established. The current commercial and recreational allocation percentages for all three species do not reflect the current understanding of the recent and historic proportions of catch and landings from the two sectors. This amendment will consider whether changes to these allocations are warranted.

Scoping is the first and best opportunity to raise concerns related to the scope of issues that will be considered. You are encouraged to submit comments on which options may or may not be useful or practical for meeting the goal of this action and any other relevant issues the Council and Commission should consider.

Learn More

The Scoping and Public Information Document linked below contains background information on summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass management and on issues that may be addressed in the amendment, as well as a description of the amendment process and timeline. Additional information and updates on development of this amendment are available on the amendment action page.

• Scoping and Public Information Document

Contacts

• Julia Beaty, Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, jbeaty@mafmc.org, 302-526-5250

• Dustin Colson Leaning, Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, dleaning@asmfc.org, 703-842-0740

Hearing Schedule

1. Thursday, February 13, 6:00-7:30 PM - Massachusetts Maritime Academy, Admiral’s Hall, 101 Academy Drive, Buzzards Bay, MA 02532; Contact: Nichola Meserve, 617-626-1531.

2. Wednesday, February 19, 6:00-7:00 PM - Delaware Dept. of Natural Resources & Environmental Control, DNREC Auditorium, Richards & Robbins Building, 89 Kings Highway, Dover, DE 19901; Contact: John Clark, 302-739-9914.

3. Monday, February 24, 6:00-8:00 PM - Belmar Municipal Court Room, 601 Main Street, Belmar, NJ 07719; Contact: Joe Cimino, 609-748-2020.

4. Tuesday, February 25, 3:30-4:45 PM - Berlin Library, 13 Harrison Avenue, Berlin, MD 21811; Contact: Steve Doctor, 410-213-1531.

5. Tuesday, February 25, 6:00-8:00 PM - Galloway Township Branch Library, 306 East Jimmie Leeds Road, Galloway, NJ 08205; Contact: Joe Cimino, 609-748-2020.

6. Tuesday, February 25, 6:00-8:00 PM - North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries, Pamlico District Office, 943 Washington Square Mall, US Highway 17, Washington, NC 27889; Contact: Chris Batsavage, 252-808-8009.

7. Wednesday, February 26, 6:00-7:30 PM - University of Rhode Island Bay Campus, Corless Auditorium, South Ferry Road, Narragansett, RI 02882; Contact: Jason McNamee, 401-423-1943.

8. Wednesday, February 26, 7:00-8:00 PM - Connecticut Dept. of Energy and Environmental Protection Marine Headquarters Boating Education Center (Rear Building), 333 Ferry Road, Old Lyme, CT 06371; Contact: Justin Davis, 860-447-4322.

9. Thursday, February 27, 6:00-7:30 PM - Stony Brook University, School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences, Room 120 Endeavor Hall, Stony Brook, NY 11794-5000; Contact: Maureen Davidson, 631-444-0483.

10. Monday, March 2, 5:00-6:00 PM - Virginia Marine Resources Commission, 380 Fenwick Road, Building 96, Fort Monroe, VA 23651; Contact: Patrick Geer, 757-247-2078.

11. Tuesday, March 3, 6:00-7:30 PM - Internet Webinar, http://mafmc.adobeconnect.com/sfsbsb_com_rec_allocation_scoping/, Audio: 1-800-832-0736 and entering room number 5068871; Contact: Julia Beaty, 302-526-5250.

Please note that some hearings will be held in conjunction with (immediately before or after) supplemental scoping hearings for an ongoing Bluefish Allocation Amendment. A schedule for the bluefish hearings will be posted at: http://www.mafmc.org/actions/bluefish-allocation-amendment.

Written Comments

In addition to providing comments at any of the scheduled public hearings, you may submit written comments by 11:59 pm EDT on Tuesday, March 17, 2020. Written comments may be sent by any of the following methods:

1. ONLINE: http://www.mafmc.org/comments/sfsbsb-allocation-amendment

2. EMAIL: jbeaty@mafmc.org

3. MAIL or FAX: Dr. Christopher Moore, Executive Director
   Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council
   800 North State Street, Suite 201

   Dover, DE 19901

   FAX: 302.674.5399

Please include “Fluke/Scup/Sea Bass Allocation Amendment” in the subject line if using email or fax, or on the outside of the envelope if submitting written comments. All comments, regardless of submission method, will be compiled into a single document for review and consideration by both the Council and Commission. Please do not send separate comments to the Council and Commission.

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) will hold eleven supplemental scoping hearings to gather public input for the Bluefish Allocation and Rebuilding Amendment. The Council is developing this action in cooperation with the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (Commission) in order to (1) update the goals and objectives of the Bluefish Fishery Management Plan (FMP); (2) perform a comprehensive review of the bluefish sector allocations, commercial allocations to the states, and transfer processes; and (3) initiate a bluefish rebuilding plan. Scoping hearings will be held between February 13 and March 4, 2020. Written comments will be accepted through March 17, 2020.

An initial round of scoping was conducted in the summer of 2018 to gauge public interest in the development of an amendment. Since then, recalibrated Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP) estimates became available and were incorporated into the 2019 bluefish operational assessment. The assessment concluded that the stock was overfished but not experiencing overfishing. The Council and Commission subsequently recommended including the rebuilding plan into this ongoing amendment. Because the additional issue modifies the scope of the amendment, the Council is holding additional hearings to provide the public ample opportunities to comment on the expanded scope of the amendment.

Public comments during scoping will help the Council address issues of public concern in a thorough and appropriate manner. Some management questions for consideration in this amendment include:

• Are the existing goals and objectives appropriate for managing the bluefish fishery?

• Is the existing allocation between the commercial and recreational sectors based on the annual catch limit appropriate for managing the bluefish fishery?

• Are the existing commercial state allocations appropriate for managing the bluefish fishery?

• Are the existing transfer processes appropriate for managing the bluefish fishery?

• What is the appropriate approach to take for rebuilding?

Learn More

The Supplemental Scoping and Public Information Document linked below contains background information on bluefish management and on issues that may be addressed in the amendment. Additional information and updates on development of this amendment are available on the Council’s website at http://www.mafmc.org/actions/bluefish-allocation-amendment.

• Scoping and Public Information Document

Contact

Please direct any questions about the amendment to Matt Seeley, (302) 526-5262, mseeley@mafmc.org.

Hearing Schedule

1. February 13, 2020, 7:30-9:00 PM – Massachusetts Maritime Academy, Admiral's Hall, 101 Academy Drive, Buzzards Bay, MA 02532

2. February 18, 2020, 6:00-8:00 PM – Ocean County Administration Building – Room 119, 101 Hooper Avenue, Toms River, New Jersey 08753

3. February 19, 2020, 7:00-8:00 PM – Delaware Dept. of Natural Resources & Environmental Control Auditorium Richardson & Robbins Building, 89 Kings Highway, Dover, Delaware 19901

4. February 25, 2020, 4:45-6:00 PM – Berlin Library, 13 Harrison Ave. Berlin, MD 21811

5. February 26, 2020, 7:30-9:00 PM – University of Rhode Island Bay Campus, Corless Auditorium, South Ferry Road, Narragansett, Rhode Island 02882

6. February 26, 2020, 8:00-9:00 PM – Connecticut Dept. of Energy and Environmental Protection Marine Headquarters Boating Education Center (Rear Building), 333 Ferry Road, Old Lyme, CT 06371

7. February 27, 2020, 6:00-7:30 PM – NC Division of Marine Fisheries Central District Office, 5285 Highway 70 West, Morehead City, North Carolina 28557

8. February 27, 2020, 7:30-9:00 PM – Stony Brook University, School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences, Room 120 Endeavour Hall; Stony Brook, NY 11794

9. March 2, 2020, 6:00-8:00 PM – Merritt Island Service Center Complex, 2575 N. Courtenay Pkwy #205, Merritt Island, FL 32953

10. March 2, 2020, 6:00-7:00 PM – Virginia Marine Resources Commission, 380 Fenwick Road Bldg 96 Fort Monroe, VA 23651

11. March 4, 2020, 6:00-7:30 PM – Internet webinar: http://mafmc.adobeconnect.com/bf_allocation_rebuilding_scoping/, For audio-only access, dial 800-832-0736 and enter room number 5068609.

Please note that some hearings will be held immediately before or after scoping hearings for an ongoing Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Commercial/Recreational Allocation Amendment. A schedule for those hearings is available at http://www.mafmc.org/newsfeed/2020/mafmc-asmfc-sfsbsb-allocation-scoping-hearings.  

Written Comments

In addition to providing comments at any of the scheduled public hearings, you may submit written comments by 11:59 pm EDT on Tuesday, March 17, 2020. Written comments may be sent by any of the following methods:

1. ONLINE: http://www.mafmc.org/comments/bluefish-allocation-rebuilding-amendment

2. EMAIL: mseeley@mafmc.org

3. MAIL or FAX: Dr. Christopher Moore, Executive Director
   Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council
   800 North State Street, Suite 201
   Dover, DE 19901
   FAX: 302.674.5399

Please include “Bluefish Scoping Comments” in the subject line if using email or fax, or on the outside of the envelope if submitting written comments. All comments, regardless of submission method, will be compiled into a single document for review and consideration by both the Council and Commission.

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) will hold eleven supplemental scoping hearings to gather public input for the Bluefish Allocation and Rebuilding Amendment. The Council is developing this action in cooperation with the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (Commission) in order to (1) update the goals and objectives of the Bluefish Fishery Management Plan (FMP); (2) perform a comprehensive review of the bluefish sector allocations, commercial allocations to the states, and transfer processes; and (3) initiate a bluefish rebuilding plan. Scoping hearings will be held between February 13 and March 4, 2020. Written comments will be accepted through March 17, 2020.

An initial round of scoping was conducted in the summer of 2018 to gauge public interest in the development of an amendment. Since then, recalibrated Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP) estimates became available and were incorporated into the 2019 bluefish operational assessment. The assessment concluded that the stock was overfished but not experiencing overfishing. The Council and Commission subsequently recommended including the rebuilding plan into this ongoing amendment. Because the additional issue modifies the scope of the amendment, the Council is holding additional hearings to provide the public ample opportunities to comment on the expanded scope of the amendment.

Public comments during scoping will help the Council address issues of public concern in a thorough and appropriate manner. Some management questions for consideration in this amendment include:

• Are the existing goals and objectives appropriate for managing the bluefish fishery?

• Is the existing allocation between the commercial and recreational sectors based on the annual catch limit appropriate for managing the bluefish fishery?

• Are the existing commercial state allocations appropriate for managing the bluefish fishery?

• Are the existing transfer processes appropriate for managing the bluefish fishery?

• What is the appropriate approach to take for rebuilding?

Learn More

The Supplemental Scoping and Public Information Document linked below contains background information on bluefish management and on issues that may be addressed in the amendment. Additional information and updates on development of this amendment are available on the Council’s website at http://www.mafmc.org/actions/bluefish-allocation-amendment.

• Scoping and Public Information Document

Contact

Please direct any questions about the amendment to Matt Seeley, (302) 526-5262, mseeley@mafmc.org.

Hearing Schedule

1. February 13, 2020, 7:30-9:00 PM – Massachusetts Maritime Academy, Admiral's Hall, 101 Academy Drive, Buzzards Bay, MA 02532

2. February 18, 2020, 6:00-8:00 PM – Ocean County Administration Building – Room 119, 101 Hooper Avenue, Toms River, New Jersey 08753

3. February 19, 2020, 7:00-8:00 PM – Delaware Dept. of Natural Resources & Environmental Control Auditorium Richardson & Robbins Building, 89 Kings Highway, Dover, Delaware 19901

4. February 25, 2020, 4:45-6:00 PM – Berlin Library, 13 Harrison Ave. Berlin, MD 21811

5. February 26, 2020, 7:30-9:00 PM – University of Rhode Island Bay Campus, Corless Auditorium, South Ferry Road, Narragansett, Rhode Island 02882

6. February 26, 2020, 8:00-9:00 PM – Connecticut Dept. of Energy and Environmental Protection Marine Headquarters Boating Education Center (Rear Building), 333 Ferry Road, Old Lyme, CT 06371

7. February 27, 2020, 6:00-7:30 PM – NC Division of Marine Fisheries Central District Office, 5285 Highway 70 West, Morehead City, North Carolina 28557

8. February 27, 2020, 7:30-9:00 PM – Stony Brook University, School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences, Room 120 Endeavour Hall; Stony Brook, NY 11794

9. March 2, 2020, 6:00-8:00 PM – Merritt Island Service Center Complex, 2575 N. Courtenay Pkwy #205, Merritt Island, FL 32953

10. March 2, 2020, 6:00-7:00 PM – Virginia Marine Resources Commission, 380 Fenwick Road Bldg 96 Fort Monroe, VA 23651

11. March 4, 2020, 6:00-7:30 PM – Internet webinar: http://mafmc.adobeconnect.com/bf_allocation_rebuilding_scoping/, For audio-only access, dial 800-830-0736 and enter room number 5068609.

Please note that some hearings will be held immediately before or after scoping hearings for an ongoing Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Commercial/Recreational Allocation Amendment. A schedule for those hearings is available at http://www.mafmc.org/newsfeed/2020/mafmc-asmfc-sfsbsb-allocation-scoping-hearings.  

Written Comments

In addition to providing comments at any of the scheduled public hearings, you may submit written comments by 11:59 pm EDT on Tuesday, March 17, 2020. Written comments may be sent by any of the following methods:

1. ONLINE: http://www.mafmc.org/comments/bluefish-allocation-rebuilding-amendment

2. EMAIL: mseeley@mafmc.org

3. MAIL or FAX: Dr. Christopher Moore, Executive Director
   Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council
   800 North State Street, Suite 201
   Dover, DE 19901
   FAX: 302.674.5399

Please include “Bluefish Scoping Comments” in the subject line if using email or fax, or on the outside of the envelope if submitting written comments. All comments, regardless of submission method, will be compiled into a single document for review and consideration by both the Council and Commission.

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) and the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (Commission) have scheduled a series of scoping hearings to gather public input on the range of issues and information to be considered in the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Commercial/Recreational Allocation Amendment. Hearings will be held February 13 – March 3. Written comments will be accepted through March 17, 2020. All comments provided at public hearings or in writing will be presented to the Council and Commission. 

This amendment will consider potential modifications to the allocations of catch or landings between the commercial and recreational sectors for summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass. The commercial and recreational allocations for all three species were set in the mid-1990s based on historical proportions of landings (for summer flounder and black sea bass) or catch (for scup) from each sector. In July 2018, the Marine Recreational Information Program released revisions to its time series of catch (harvest and discards) estimates. These revisions resulted in much higher recreational catch estimates compared to previous estimates, affecting the entire time series of data going back to 1981. Some changes have also been made to commercial catch data since the allocations were established. The current commercial and recreational allocation percentages for all three species do not reflect the current understanding of the recent and historic proportions of catch and landings from the two sectors. This amendment will consider whether changes to these allocations are warranted.

Scoping is the first and best opportunity to raise concerns related to the scope of issues that will be considered. You are encouraged to submit comments on which options may or may not be useful or practical for meeting the goal of this action and any other relevant issues the Council and Commission should consider.

Learn More

The Scoping and Public Information Document linked below contains background information on summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass management and on issues that may be addressed in the amendment, as well as a description of the amendment process and timeline. Additional information and updates on development of this amendment are available on the amendment action page.

• Scoping and Public Information Document

Contacts

• Julia Beaty, Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, jbeaty@mafmc.org, 302-526-5250

• Dustin Colson Leaning, Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, dleaning@asmfc.org, 703-842-0740

Hearing Schedule

1. Thursday, February 13, 6:00-7:30 PM - Massachusetts Maritime Academy, Admiral’s Hall, 101 Academy Drive, Buzzards Bay, MA 02532; Contact: Nichola Meserve, 617-626-1531.

2. Wednesday, February 19, 6:00-7:00 PM - Delaware Dept. of Natural Resources & Environmental Control, DNREC Auditorium, Richards & Robbins Building, 89 Kings Highway, Dover, DE 19901; Contact: John Clark, 302-739-9914.

3. Monday, February 24, 6:00-8:00 PM - Belmar Municipal Court Room, 601 Main Street, Belmar, NJ 07719; Contact: Joe Cimino, 609-748-2020.

4. Tuesday, February 25, 3:30-4:45 PM - Berlin Library, 13 Harrison Avenue, Berlin, MD 21811; Contact: Steve Doctor, 410-213-1531.

5. Tuesday, February 25, 6:00-8:00 PM - Galloway Township Branch Library, 306 East Jimmie Leeds Road, Galloway, NJ 08205; Contact: Joe Cimino, 609-748-2020.

6. Tuesday, February 25, 6:00-8:00 PM - North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries, Pamlico District Office, 943 Washington Square Mall, US Highway 17, Washington, NC 27889; Contact: Chris Batsavage, 252-808-8009.

7. Wednesday, February 26, 6:00-7:30 PM - University of Rhode Island Bay Campus, Corless Auditorium, South Ferry Road, Narragansett, RI 02882; Contact: Jason McNamee, 401-423-1943.

8. Wednesday, February 26, 7:00-8:00 PM - Connecticut Dept. of Energy and Environmental Protection Marine Headquarters Boating Education Center (Rear Building), 333 Ferry Road, Old Lyme, CT 06371; Contact: Justin Davis, 860-447-4322.

9. Thursday, February 27, 6:00-7:30 PM - Stony Brook University, School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences, Room 120 Endeavor Hall, Stony Brook, NY 11794-5000; Contact: Maureen Davidson, 631-444-0483.

10. Monday, March 2, 5:00-6:00 PM - Virginia Marine Resources Commission, 380 Fenwick Road, Building 96, Fort Monroe, VA 23651; Contact: Patrick Geer, 757-247-2078.

11. Tuesday, March 3, 6:00-7:30 PM - Internet Webinar, http://mafmc.adobeconnect.com/sfsbsb_com_rec_allocation_scoping/, Audio: 1-800-832-0736 and entering room number 5068871; Contact: Julia Beaty, 302-526-5250.

Please note that some hearings will be held in conjunction with (immediately before or after) supplemental scoping hearings for an ongoing Bluefish Allocation Amendment. A schedule for the bluefish hearings will be posted at: http://www.mafmc.org/actions/bluefish-allocation-amendment.

Written Comments

In addition to providing comments at any of the scheduled public hearings, you may submit written comments by 11:59 pm EDT on Tuesday, March 17, 2020. Written comments may be sent by any of the following methods:

1. ONLINE: http://www.mafmc.org/comments/sfsbsb-allocation-amendment

2. EMAIL: jbeaty@mafmc.org

3. MAIL or FAX: Dr. Christopher Moore, Executive Director
   Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council
   800 North State Street, Suite 201

   Dover, DE 19901

   FAX: 302.674.5399

Please include “Fluke/Scup/Sea Bass Allocation Amendment” in the subject line if using email or fax, or on the outside of the envelope if submitting written comments. All comments, regardless of submission method, will be compiled into a single document for review and consideration by both the Council and Commission. Please do not send separate comments to the Council and Commission.

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) and the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (Commission) have scheduled a series of scoping hearings to gather public input on the range of issues and information to be considered in the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Commercial/Recreational Allocation Amendment. Hearings will be held February 13 – March 3. Written comments will be accepted through March 17, 2020. All comments provided at public hearings or in writing will be presented to the Council and Commission. 

This amendment will consider potential modifications to the allocations of catch or landings between the commercial and recreational sectors for summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass. The commercial and recreational allocations for all three species were set in the mid-1990s based on historical proportions of landings (for summer flounder and black sea bass) or catch (for scup) from each sector. In July 2018, the Marine Recreational Information Program released revisions to its time series of catch (harvest and discards) estimates. These revisions resulted in much higher recreational catch estimates compared to previous estimates, affecting the entire time series of data going back to 1981. Some changes have also been made to commercial catch data since the allocations were established. The current commercial and recreational allocation percentages for all three species do not reflect the current understanding of the recent and historic proportions of catch and landings from the two sectors. This amendment will consider whether changes to these allocations are warranted.

Scoping is the first and best opportunity to raise concerns related to the scope of issues that will be considered. You are encouraged to submit comments on which options may or may not be useful or practical for meeting the goal of this action and any other relevant issues the Council and Commission should consider.

Learn More

The Scoping and Public Information Document linked below contains background information on summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass management and on issues that may be addressed in the amendment, as well as a description of the amendment process and timeline. Additional information and updates on development of this amendment are available on the amendment action page.

• Scoping and Public Information Document

Contacts

• Julia Beaty, Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, jbeaty@mafmc.org, 302-526-5250

• Dustin Colson Leaning, Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, dleaning@asmfc.org, 703-842-0740

Hearing Schedule

1. Thursday, February 13, 6:00-7:30 PM - Massachusetts Maritime Academy, Admiral’s Hall, 101 Academy Drive, Buzzards Bay, MA 02532; Contact: Nichola Meserve, 617-626-1531.

2. Wednesday, February 19, 6:00-7:00 PM - Delaware Dept. of Natural Resources & Environmental Control, DNREC Auditorium, Richards & Robbins Building, 89 Kings Highway, Dover, DE 19901; Contact: John Clark, 302-739-9914.

3. Monday, February 24, 6:00-8:00 PM - Belmar Municipal Court Room, 601 Main Street, Belmar, NJ 07719; Contact: Joe Cimino, 609-748-2020.

4. Tuesday, February 25, 3:30-4:45 PM - Berlin Library, 13 Harrison Avenue, Berlin, MD 21811; Contact: Steve Doctor, 410-213-1531.

5. Tuesday, February 25, 6:00-8:00 PM - Galloway Township Branch Library, 306 East Jimmie Leeds Road, Galloway, NJ 08205; Contact: Joe Cimino, 609-748-2020.

6. Tuesday, February 25, 6:00-8:00 PM - North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries, Pamlico District Office, 943 Washington Square Mall, US Highway 17, Washington, NC 27889; Contact: Chris Batsavage, 252-808-8009.

7. Wednesday, February 26, 6:00-7:30 PM - University of Rhode Island Bay Campus, Corless Auditorium, South Ferry Road, Narragansett, RI 02882; Contact: Jason McNamee, 401-423-1943.

8. Wednesday, February 26, 7:00-8:00 PM - Connecticut Dept. of Energy and Environmental Protection Marine Headquarters Boating Education Center (Rear Building), 333 Ferry Road, Old Lyme, CT 06371; Contact: Justin Davis, 860-447-4322.

9. Thursday, February 27, 6:00-7:30 PM - Stony Brook University, School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences, Room 120 Endeavor Hall, Stony Brook, NY 11794-5000; Contact: Maureen Davidson, 631-444-0483.

10. Monday, March 2, 5:00-6:00 PM - Virginia Marine Resources Commission, 380 Fenwick Road, Building 96, Fort Monroe, VA 23651; Contact: Patrick Geer, 757-247-2078.

11. Tuesday, March 3, 6:00-7:30 PM - Internet Webinar, http://mafmc.adobeconnect.com/sfsbsb_com_rec_allocation_scoping/, Audio: 1-800-832-0736 and entering room number 5068871; Contact: Julia Beaty, 302-526-5250.

Please note that some hearings will be held in conjunction with (immediately before or after) supplemental scoping hearings for an ongoing Bluefish Allocation Amendment. A schedule for the bluefish hearings will be posted at: http://www.mafmc.org/actions/bluefish-allocation-amendment.

Written Comments

In addition to providing comments at any of the scheduled public hearings, you may submit written comments by 11:59 pm EDT on Tuesday, March 17, 2020. Written comments may be sent by any of the following methods:

1. ONLINE: http://www.mafmc.org/comments/sfsbsb-allocation-amendment

2. EMAIL: jbeaty@mafmc.org

3. MAIL or FAX: Dr. Christopher Moore, Executive Director
   Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council
   800 North State Street, Suite 201

   Dover, DE 19901

   FAX: 302.674.5399

Please include “Fluke/Scup/Sea Bass Allocation Amendment” in the subject line if using email or fax, or on the outside of the envelope if submitting written comments. All comments, regardless of submission method, will be compiled into a single document for review and consideration by both the Council and Commission. Please do not send separate comments to the Council and Commission.

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) and the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (Commission) have scheduled a series of scoping hearings to gather public input on the range of issues and information to be considered in the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Commercial/Recreational Allocation Amendment. Hearings will be held February 13 – March 3. Written comments will be accepted through March 17, 2020. All comments provided at public hearings or in writing will be presented to the Council and Commission. 

This amendment will consider potential modifications to the allocations of catch or landings between the commercial and recreational sectors for summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass. The commercial and recreational allocations for all three species were set in the mid-1990s based on historical proportions of landings (for summer flounder and black sea bass) or catch (for scup) from each sector. In July 2018, the Marine Recreational Information Program released revisions to its time series of catch (harvest and discards) estimates. These revisions resulted in much higher recreational catch estimates compared to previous estimates, affecting the entire time series of data going back to 1981. Some changes have also been made to commercial catch data since the allocations were established. The current commercial and recreational allocation percentages for all three species do not reflect the current understanding of the recent and historic proportions of catch and landings from the two sectors. This amendment will consider whether changes to these allocations are warranted.

Scoping is the first and best opportunity to raise concerns related to the scope of issues that will be considered. You are encouraged to submit comments on which options may or may not be useful or practical for meeting the goal of this action and any other relevant issues the Council and Commission should consider.

Learn More

The Scoping and Public Information Document linked below contains background information on summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass management and on issues that may be addressed in the amendment, as well as a description of the amendment process and timeline. Additional information and updates on development of this amendment are available on the amendment action page.

• Scoping and Public Information Document

Contacts

• Julia Beaty, Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, jbeaty@mafmc.org, 302-526-5250

• Dustin Colson Leaning, Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, dleaning@asmfc.org, 703-842-0740

Hearing Schedule

1. Thursday, February 13, 6:00-7:30 PM - Massachusetts Maritime Academy, Admiral’s Hall, 101 Academy Drive, Buzzards Bay, MA 02532; Contact: Nichola Meserve, 617-626-1531.

2. Wednesday, February 19, 6:00-7:00 PM - Delaware Dept. of Natural Resources & Environmental Control, DNREC Auditorium, Richards & Robbins Building, 89 Kings Highway, Dover, DE 19901; Contact: John Clark, 302-739-9914.

3. Monday, February 24, 6:00-8:00 PM - Belmar Municipal Court Room, 601 Main Street, Belmar, NJ 07719; Contact: Joe Cimino, 609-748-2020.

4. Tuesday, February 25, 3:30-4:45 PM - Berlin Library, 13 Harrison Avenue, Berlin, MD 21811; Contact: Steve Doctor, 410-213-1531.

5. Tuesday, February 25, 6:00-8:00 PM - Galloway Township Branch Library, 306 East Jimmie Leeds Road, Galloway, NJ 08205; Contact: Joe Cimino, 609-748-2020.

6. Tuesday, February 25, 6:00-8:00 PM - North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries, Pamlico District Office, 943 Washington Square Mall, US Highway 17, Washington, NC 27889; Contact: Chris Batsavage, 252-808-8009.

7. Wednesday, February 26, 6:00-7:30 PM - University of Rhode Island Bay Campus, Corless Auditorium, South Ferry Road, Narragansett, RI 02882; Contact: Jason McNamee, 401-423-1943.

8. Wednesday, February 26, 7:00-8:00 PM - Connecticut Dept. of Energy and Environmental Protection Marine Headquarters Boating Education Center (Rear Building), 333 Ferry Road, Old Lyme, CT 06371; Contact: Justin Davis, 860-447-4322.

9. Thursday, February 27, 6:00-7:30 PM - Stony Brook University, School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences, Room 120 Endeavor Hall, Stony Brook, NY 11794-5000; Contact: Maureen Davidson, 631-444-0483.

10. Monday, March 2, 5:00-6:00 PM - Virginia Marine Resources Commission, 380 Fenwick Road, Building 96, Fort Monroe, VA 23651; Contact: Patrick Geer, 757-247-2078.

11. Tuesday, March 3, 6:00-7:30 PM - Internet Webinar, http://mafmc.adobeconnect.com/sfsbsb_com_rec_allocation_scoping/, Audio: 1-800-832-0736 and entering room number 5068871; Contact: Julia Beaty, 302-526-5250.

Please note that some hearings will be held in conjunction with (immediately before or after) supplemental scoping hearings for an ongoing Bluefish Allocation Amendment. A schedule for the bluefish hearings will be posted at: http://www.mafmc.org/actions/bluefish-allocation-amendment.

Written Comments

In addition to providing comments at any of the scheduled public hearings, you may submit written comments by 11:59 pm EDT on Tuesday, March 17, 2020. Written comments may be sent by any of the following methods:

1. ONLINE: http://www.mafmc.org/comments/sfsbsb-allocation-amendment

2. EMAIL: jbeaty@mafmc.org

3. MAIL or FAX: Dr. Christopher Moore, Executive Director
   Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council
   800 North State Street, Suite 201

   Dover, DE 19901

   FAX: 302.674.5399

Please include “Fluke/Scup/Sea Bass Allocation Amendment” in the subject line if using email or fax, or on the outside of the envelope if submitting written comments. All comments, regardless of submission method, will be compiled into a single document for review and consideration by both the Council and Commission. Please do not send separate comments to the Council and Commission.

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) and the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (Commission) have scheduled a series of scoping hearings to gather public input on the range of issues and information to be considered in the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Commercial/Recreational Allocation Amendment. Hearings will be held February 13 – March 3. Written comments will be accepted through March 17, 2020. All comments provided at public hearings or in writing will be presented to the Council and Commission. 

This amendment will consider potential modifications to the allocations of catch or landings between the commercial and recreational sectors for summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass. The commercial and recreational allocations for all three species were set in the mid-1990s based on historical proportions of landings (for summer flounder and black sea bass) or catch (for scup) from each sector. In July 2018, the Marine Recreational Information Program released revisions to its time series of catch (harvest and discards) estimates. These revisions resulted in much higher recreational catch estimates compared to previous estimates, affecting the entire time series of data going back to 1981. Some changes have also been made to commercial catch data since the allocations were established. The current commercial and recreational allocation percentages for all three species do not reflect the current understanding of the recent and historic proportions of catch and landings from the two sectors. This amendment will consider whether changes to these allocations are warranted.

Scoping is the first and best opportunity to raise concerns related to the scope of issues that will be considered. You are encouraged to submit comments on which options may or may not be useful or practical for meeting the goal of this action and any other relevant issues the Council and Commission should consider.

Learn More

The Scoping and Public Information Document linked below contains background information on summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass management and on issues that may be addressed in the amendment, as well as a description of the amendment process and timeline. Additional information and updates on development of this amendment are available on the amendment action page.

• Scoping and Public Information Document

Contacts

• Julia Beaty, Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, jbeaty@mafmc.org, 302-526-5250

• Dustin Colson Leaning, Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, dleaning@asmfc.org, 703-842-0740

Hearing Schedule

1. Thursday, February 13, 6:00-7:30 PM - Massachusetts Maritime Academy, Admiral’s Hall, 101 Academy Drive, Buzzards Bay, MA 02532; Contact: Nichola Meserve, 617-626-1531.

2. Wednesday, February 19, 6:00-7:00 PM - Delaware Dept. of Natural Resources & Environmental Control, DNREC Auditorium, Richards & Robbins Building, 89 Kings Highway, Dover, DE 19901; Contact: John Clark, 302-739-9914.

3. Monday, February 24, 6:00-8:00 PM - Belmar Municipal Court Room, 601 Main Street, Belmar, NJ 07719; Contact: Joe Cimino, 609-748-2020.

4. Tuesday, February 25, 3:30-4:45 PM - Berlin Library, 13 Harrison Avenue, Berlin, MD 21811; Contact: Steve Doctor, 410-213-1531.

5. Tuesday, February 25, 6:00-8:00 PM - Galloway Township Branch Library, 306 East Jimmie Leeds Road, Galloway, NJ 08205; Contact: Joe Cimino, 609-748-2020.

6. Tuesday, February 25, 6:00-8:00 PM - North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries, Pamlico District Office, 943 Washington Square Mall, US Highway 17, Washington, NC 27889; Contact: Chris Batsavage, 252-808-8009.

7. Wednesday, February 26, 6:00-7:30 PM - University of Rhode Island Bay Campus, Corless Auditorium, South Ferry Road, Narragansett, RI 02882; Contact: Jason McNamee, 401-423-1943.

8. Wednesday, February 26, 7:00-8:00 PM - Connecticut Dept. of Energy and Environmental Protection Marine Headquarters Boating Education Center (Rear Building), 333 Ferry Road, Old Lyme, CT 06371; Contact: Justin Davis, 860-447-4322.

9. Thursday, February 27, 6:00-7:30 PM - Stony Brook University, School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences, Room 120 Endeavor Hall, Stony Brook, NY 11794-5000; Contact: Maureen Davidson, 631-444-0483.

10. Monday, March 2, 5:00-6:00 PM - Virginia Marine Resources Commission, 380 Fenwick Road, Building 96, Fort Monroe, VA 23651; Contact: Patrick Geer, 757-247-2078.

11. Tuesday, March 3, 6:00-7:30 PM - Internet Webinar, http://mafmc.adobeconnect.com/sfsbsb_com_rec_allocation_scoping/, Audio: 1-800-832-0736 and entering room number 5068871; Contact: Julia Beaty, 302-526-5250.

Please note that some hearings will be held in conjunction with (immediately before or after) supplemental scoping hearings for an ongoing Bluefish Allocation Amendment. A schedule for the bluefish hearings will be posted at: http://www.mafmc.org/actions/bluefish-allocation-amendment.

Written Comments

In addition to providing comments at any of the scheduled public hearings, you may submit written comments by 11:59 pm EDT on Tuesday, March 17, 2020. Written comments may be sent by any of the following methods:

1. ONLINE: http://www.mafmc.org/comments/sfsbsb-allocation-amendment

2. EMAIL: jbeaty@mafmc.org

3. MAIL or FAX: Dr. Christopher Moore, Executive Director
   Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council
   800 North State Street, Suite 201

   Dover, DE 19901

   FAX: 302.674.5399

Please include “Fluke/Scup/Sea Bass Allocation Amendment” in the subject line if using email or fax, or on the outside of the envelope if submitting written comments. All comments, regardless of submission method, will be compiled into a single document for review and consideration by both the Council and Commission. Please do not send separate comments to the Council and Commission.

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) will hold eleven supplemental scoping hearings to gather public input for the Bluefish Allocation and Rebuilding Amendment. The Council is developing this action in cooperation with the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (Commission) in order to (1) update the goals and objectives of the Bluefish Fishery Management Plan (FMP); (2) perform a comprehensive review of the bluefish sector allocations, commercial allocations to the states, and transfer processes; and (3) initiate a bluefish rebuilding plan. Scoping hearings will be held between February 13 and March 4, 2020. Written comments will be accepted through March 17, 2020.

An initial round of scoping was conducted in the summer of 2018 to gauge public interest in the development of an amendment. Since then, recalibrated Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP) estimates became available and were incorporated into the 2019 bluefish operational assessment. The assessment concluded that the stock was overfished but not experiencing overfishing. The Council and Commission subsequently recommended including the rebuilding plan into this ongoing amendment. Because the additional issue modifies the scope of the amendment, the Council is holding additional hearings to provide the public ample opportunities to comment on the expanded scope of the amendment.

Public comments during scoping will help the Council address issues of public concern in a thorough and appropriate manner. Some management questions for consideration in this amendment include:

• Are the existing goals and objectives appropriate for managing the bluefish fishery?

• Is the existing allocation between the commercial and recreational sectors based on the annual catch limit appropriate for managing the bluefish fishery?

• Are the existing commercial state allocations appropriate for managing the bluefish fishery?

• Are the existing transfer processes appropriate for managing the bluefish fishery?

• What is the appropriate approach to take for rebuilding?

Learn More

The Supplemental Scoping and Public Information Document linked below contains background information on bluefish management and on issues that may be addressed in the amendment. Additional information and updates on development of this amendment are available on the Council’s website at http://www.mafmc.org/actions/bluefish-allocation-amendment.

• Scoping and Public Information Document

Contact

Please direct any questions about the amendment to Matt Seeley, (302) 526-5262, mseeley@mafmc.org.

Hearing Schedule

1. February 13, 2020, 7:30-9:00 PM – Massachusetts Maritime Academy, Admiral's Hall, 101 Academy Drive, Buzzards Bay, MA 02532

2. February 18, 2020, 6:00-8:00 PM – Ocean County Administration Building – Room 119, 101 Hooper Avenue, Toms River, New Jersey 08753

3. February 19, 2020, 7:00-8:00 PM – Delaware Dept. of Natural Resources & Environmental Control Auditorium Richardson & Robbins Building, 89 Kings Highway, Dover, Delaware 19901

4. February 25, 2020, 4:45-6:00 PM – Berlin Library, 13 Harrison Ave. Berlin, MD 21811

5. February 26, 2020, 7:30-9:00 PM – University of Rhode Island Bay Campus, Corless Auditorium, South Ferry Road, Narragansett, Rhode Island 02882

6. February 26, 2020, 8:00-9:00 PM – Connecticut Dept. of Energy and Environmental Protection Marine Headquarters Boating Education Center (Rear Building), 333 Ferry Road, Old Lyme, CT 06371

7. February 27, 2020, 6:00-7:30 PM – NC Division of Marine Fisheries Central District Office, 5285 Highway 70 West, Morehead City, North Carolina 28557

8. February 27, 2020, 7:30-9:00 PM – Stony Brook University, School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences, Room 120 Endeavour Hall; Stony Brook, NY 11794

9. March 2, 2020, 6:00-8:00 PM – Merritt Island Service Center Complex, 2575 N. Courtenay Pkwy #205, Merritt Island, FL 32953

10. March 2, 2020, 6:00-7:00 PM – Virginia Marine Resources Commission, 380 Fenwick Road Bldg 96 Fort Monroe, VA 23651

11. March 4, 2020, 6:00-7:30 PM – Internet webinar: http://mafmc.adobeconnect.com/bf_allocation_rebuilding_scoping/. For audio-only access, dial 800-832-0736 and enter room number 5068609.

Please note that some hearings will be held immediately before or after scoping hearings for an ongoing Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Commercial/Recreational Allocation Amendment. A schedule for those hearings is available at http://www.mafmc.org/newsfeed/2020/mafmc-asmfc-sfsbsb-allocation-scoping-hearings.  

Written Comments

In addition to providing comments at any of the scheduled public hearings, you may submit written comments by 11:59 pm EDT on Tuesday, March 17, 2020. Written comments may be sent by any of the following methods:

1. ONLINE: http://www.mafmc.org/comments/bluefish-allocation-rebuilding-amendment

2. EMAIL: mseeley@mafmc.org

3. MAIL or FAX: Dr. Christopher Moore, Executive Director
   Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council
   800 North State Street, Suite 201
   Dover, DE 19901
   FAX: 302.674.5399

Please include “Bluefish Scoping Comments” in the subject line if using email or fax, or on the outside of the envelope if submitting written comments. All comments, regardless of submission method, will be compiled into a single document for review and consideration by both the Council and Commission.

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) and the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (Commission) have scheduled a series of scoping hearings to gather public input on the range of issues and information to be considered in the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Commercial/Recreational Allocation Amendment. Hearings will be held February 13 – March 3. Written comments will be accepted through March 17, 2020. All comments provided at public hearings or in writing will be presented to the Council and Commission. 

This amendment will consider potential modifications to the allocations of catch or landings between the commercial and recreational sectors for summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass. The commercial and recreational allocations for all three species were set in the mid-1990s based on historical proportions of landings (for summer flounder and black sea bass) or catch (for scup) from each sector. In July 2018, the Marine Recreational Information Program released revisions to its time series of catch (harvest and discards) estimates. These revisions resulted in much higher recreational catch estimates compared to previous estimates, affecting the entire time series of data going back to 1981. Some changes have also been made to commercial catch data since the allocations were established. The current commercial and recreational allocation percentages for all three species do not reflect the current understanding of the recent and historic proportions of catch and landings from the two sectors. This amendment will consider whether changes to these allocations are warranted.

Scoping is the first and best opportunity to raise concerns related to the scope of issues that will be considered. You are encouraged to submit comments on which options may or may not be useful or practical for meeting the goal of this action and any other relevant issues the Council and Commission should consider.

Learn More

The Scoping and Public Information Document linked below contains background information on summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass management and on issues that may be addressed in the amendment, as well as a description of the amendment process and timeline. Additional information and updates on development of this amendment are available on the amendment action page.

• Scoping and Public Information Document

Contacts

• Julia Beaty, Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, jbeaty@mafmc.org, 302-526-5250

• Dustin Colson Leaning, Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, dleaning@asmfc.org, 703-842-0740

Hearing Schedule

1. Thursday, February 13, 6:00-7:30 PM - Massachusetts Maritime Academy, Admiral’s Hall, 101 Academy Drive, Buzzards Bay, MA 02532; Contact: Nichola Meserve, 617-626-1531.

2. Wednesday, February 19, 6:00-7:00 PM - Delaware Dept. of Natural Resources & Environmental Control, DNREC Auditorium, Richards & Robbins Building, 89 Kings Highway, Dover, DE 19901; Contact: John Clark, 302-739-9914.

3. Monday, February 24, 6:00-8:00 PM - Belmar Municipal Court Room, 601 Main Street, Belmar, NJ 07719; Contact: Joe Cimino, 609-748-2020.

4. Tuesday, February 25, 3:30-4:45 PM - Berlin Library, 13 Harrison Avenue, Berlin, MD 21811; Contact: Steve Doctor, 410-213-1531.

5. Tuesday, February 25, 6:00-8:00 PM - Galloway Township Branch Library, 306 East Jimmie Leeds Road, Galloway, NJ 08205; Contact: Joe Cimino, 609-748-2020.

6. Tuesday, February 25, 6:00-8:00 PM - North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries, Pamlico District Office, 943 Washington Square Mall, US Highway 17, Washington, NC 27889; Contact: Chris Batsavage, 252-808-8009.

7. Wednesday, February 26, 6:00-7:30 PM - University of Rhode Island Bay Campus, Corless Auditorium, South Ferry Road, Narragansett, RI 02882; Contact: Jason McNamee, 401-423-1943.

8. Wednesday, February 26, 7:00-8:00 PM - Connecticut Dept. of Energy and Environmental Protection Marine Headquarters Boating Education Center (Rear Building), 333 Ferry Road, Old Lyme, CT 06371; Contact: Justin Davis, 860-447-4322.

9. Thursday, February 27, 6:00-7:30 PM - Stony Brook University, School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences, Room 120 Endeavor Hall, Stony Brook, NY 11794-5000; Contact: Maureen Davidson, 631-444-0483.

10. Monday, March 2, 5:00-6:00 PM - Virginia Marine Resources Commission, 380 Fenwick Road, Building 96, Fort Monroe, VA 23651; Contact: Patrick Geer, 757-247-2078.

11. Tuesday, March 3, 6:00-7:30 PM - Internet Webinar, http://mafmc.adobeconnect.com/sfsbsb_com_rec_allocation_scoping/, Audio: 1-800-832-0736 and entering room number 5068871; Contact: Julia Beaty, 302-526-5250.

Please note that some hearings will be held in conjunction with (immediately before or after) supplemental scoping hearings for an ongoing Bluefish Allocation Amendment. A schedule for the bluefish hearings will be posted at: http://www.mafmc.org/actions/bluefish-allocation-amendment.

Written Comments

In addition to providing comments at any of the scheduled public hearings, you may submit written comments by 11:59 pm EDT on Tuesday, March 17, 2020. Written comments may be sent by any of the following methods:

1. ONLINE: http://www.mafmc.org/comments/sfsbsb-allocation-amendment

2. EMAIL: jbeaty@mafmc.org

3. MAIL or FAX: Dr. Christopher Moore, Executive Director
   Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council
   800 North State Street, Suite 201

   Dover, DE 19901

   FAX: 302.674.5399

Please include “Fluke/Scup/Sea Bass Allocation Amendment” in the subject line if using email or fax, or on the outside of the envelope if submitting written comments. All comments, regardless of submission method, will be compiled into a single document for review and consideration by both the Council and Commission. Please do not send separate comments to the Council and Commission.

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) and the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (Commission) have scheduled a series of scoping hearings to gather public input on the range of issues and information to be considered in the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Commercial/Recreational Allocation Amendment. Hearings will be held February 13 – March 3. Written comments will be accepted through March 17, 2020. All comments provided at public hearings or in writing will be presented to the Council and Commission. 

This amendment will consider potential modifications to the allocations of catch or landings between the commercial and recreational sectors for summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass. The commercial and recreational allocations for all three species were set in the mid-1990s based on historical proportions of landings (for summer flounder and black sea bass) or catch (for scup) from each sector. In July 2018, the Marine Recreational Information Program released revisions to its time series of catch (harvest and discards) estimates. These revisions resulted in much higher recreational catch estimates compared to previous estimates, affecting the entire time series of data going back to 1981. Some changes have also been made to commercial catch data since the allocations were established. The current commercial and recreational allocation percentages for all three species do not reflect the current understanding of the recent and historic proportions of catch and landings from the two sectors. This amendment will consider whether changes to these allocations are warranted.

Scoping is the first and best opportunity to raise concerns related to the scope of issues that will be considered. You are encouraged to submit comments on which options may or may not be useful or practical for meeting the goal of this action and any other relevant issues the Council and Commission should consider.

Learn More

The Scoping and Public Information Document linked below contains background information on summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass management and on issues that may be addressed in the amendment, as well as a description of the amendment process and timeline. Additional information and updates on development of this amendment are available on the amendment action page.

• Scoping and Public Information Document

Contacts

• Julia Beaty, Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, jbeaty@mafmc.org, 302-526-5250

• Dustin Colson Leaning, Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, dleaning@asmfc.org, 703-842-0740

Hearing Schedule

1. Thursday, February 13, 6:00-7:30 PM - Massachusetts Maritime Academy, Admiral’s Hall, 101 Academy Drive, Buzzards Bay, MA 02532; Contact: Nichola Meserve, 617-626-1531.

2. Wednesday, February 19, 6:00-7:00 PM - Delaware Dept. of Natural Resources & Environmental Control, DNREC Auditorium, Richards & Robbins Building, 89 Kings Highway, Dover, DE 19901; Contact: John Clark, 302-739-9914.

3. Monday, February 24, 6:00-8:00 PM - Belmar Municipal Court Room, 601 Main Street, Belmar, NJ 07719; Contact: Joe Cimino, 609-748-2020.

4. Tuesday, February 25, 3:30-4:45 PM - Berlin Library, 13 Harrison Avenue, Berlin, MD 21811; Contact: Steve Doctor, 410-213-1531.

5. Tuesday, February 25, 6:00-8:00 PM - Galloway Township Branch Library, 306 East Jimmie Leeds Road, Galloway, NJ 08205; Contact: Joe Cimino, 609-748-2020.

6. Tuesday, February 25, 6:00-8:00 PM - North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries, Pamlico District Office, 943 Washington Square Mall, US Highway 17, Washington, NC 27889; Contact: Chris Batsavage, 252-808-8009.

7. Wednesday, February 26, 6:00-7:30 PM - University of Rhode Island Bay Campus, Corless Auditorium, South Ferry Road, Narragansett, RI 02882; Contact: Jason McNamee, 401-423-1943.

8. Wednesday, February 26, 7:00-8:00 PM - Connecticut Dept. of Energy and Environmental Protection Marine Headquarters Boating Education Center (Rear Building), 333 Ferry Road, Old Lyme, CT 06371; Contact: Justin Davis, 860-447-4322.

9. Thursday, February 27, 6:00-7:30 PM - Stony Brook University, School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences, Room 120 Endeavor Hall, Stony Brook, NY 11794-5000; Contact: Maureen Davidson, 631-444-0483.

10. Monday, March 2, 5:00-6:00 PM - Virginia Marine Resources Commission, 380 Fenwick Road, Building 96, Fort Monroe, VA 23651; Contact: Patrick Geer, 757-247-2078.

11. Tuesday, March 3, 6:00-7:30 PM - Internet Webinar, http://mafmc.adobeconnect.com/sfsbsb_com_rec_allocation_scoping/, Audio: 1-800-832-0736 and entering room number 5068871; Contact: Julia Beaty, 302-526-5250.

Please note that some hearings will be held in conjunction with (immediately before or after) supplemental scoping hearings for an ongoing Bluefish Allocation Amendment. A schedule for the bluefish hearings will be posted at: http://www.mafmc.org/actions/bluefish-allocation-amendment.

Written Comments

In addition to providing comments at any of the scheduled public hearings, you may submit written comments by 11:59 pm EDT on Tuesday, March 17, 2020. Written comments may be sent by any of the following methods:

1. ONLINE: http://www.mafmc.org/comments/sfsbsb-allocation-amendment

2. EMAIL: jbeaty@mafmc.org

3. MAIL or FAX: Dr. Christopher Moore, Executive Director
   Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council
   800 North State Street, Suite 201

   Dover, DE 19901

   FAX: 302.674.5399

Please include “Fluke/Scup/Sea Bass Allocation Amendment” in the subject line if using email or fax, or on the outside of the envelope if submitting written comments. All comments, regardless of submission method, will be compiled into a single document for review and consideration by both the Council and Commission. Please do not send separate comments to the Council and Commission.

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) and the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (Commission) have scheduled a series of scoping hearings to gather public input on the range of issues and information to be considered in the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Commercial/Recreational Allocation Amendment. Hearings will be held February 13 – March 3. Written comments will be accepted through March 17, 2020. All comments provided at public hearings or in writing will be presented to the Council and Commission. 

This amendment will consider potential modifications to the allocations of catch or landings between the commercial and recreational sectors for summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass. The commercial and recreational allocations for all three species were set in the mid-1990s based on historical proportions of landings (for summer flounder and black sea bass) or catch (for scup) from each sector. In July 2018, the Marine Recreational Information Program released revisions to its time series of catch (harvest and discards) estimates. These revisions resulted in much higher recreational catch estimates compared to previous estimates, affecting the entire time series of data going back to 1981. Some changes have also been made to commercial catch data since the allocations were established. The current commercial and recreational allocation percentages for all three species do not reflect the current understanding of the recent and historic proportions of catch and landings from the two sectors. This amendment will consider whether changes to these allocations are warranted.

Scoping is the first and best opportunity to raise concerns related to the scope of issues that will be considered. You are encouraged to submit comments on which options may or may not be useful or practical for meeting the goal of this action and any other relevant issues the Council and Commission should consider.

Learn More

The Scoping and Public Information Document linked below contains background information on summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass management and on issues that may be addressed in the amendment, as well as a description of the amendment process and timeline. Additional information and updates on development of this amendment are available on the amendment action page.

• Scoping and Public Information Document

Contacts

• Julia Beaty, Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, jbeaty@mafmc.org, 302-526-5250

• Dustin Colson Leaning, Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, dleaning@asmfc.org, 703-842-0740

Hearing Schedule

1. Thursday, February 13, 6:00-7:30 PM - Massachusetts Maritime Academy, Admiral’s Hall, 101 Academy Drive, Buzzards Bay, MA 02532; Contact: Nichola Meserve, 617-626-1531.

2. Wednesday, February 19, 6:00-7:00 PM - Delaware Dept. of Natural Resources & Environmental Control, DNREC Auditorium, Richards & Robbins Building, 89 Kings Highway, Dover, DE 19901; Contact: John Clark, 302-739-9914.

3. Monday, February 24, 6:00-8:00 PM - Belmar Municipal Court Room, 601 Main Street, Belmar, NJ 07719; Contact: Joe Cimino, 609-748-2020.

4. Tuesday, February 25, 3:30-4:45 PM - Berlin Library, 13 Harrison Avenue, Berlin, MD 21811; Contact: Steve Doctor, 410-213-1531.

5. Tuesday, February 25, 6:00-8:00 PM - Galloway Township Branch Library, 306 East Jimmie Leeds Road, Galloway, NJ 08205; Contact: Joe Cimino, 609-748-2020.

6. Tuesday, February 25, 6:00-8:00 PM - North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries, Pamlico District Office, 943 Washington Square Mall, US Highway 17, Washington, NC 27889; Contact: Chris Batsavage, 252-808-8009.

7. Wednesday, February 26, 6:00-7:30 PM - University of Rhode Island Bay Campus, Corless Auditorium, South Ferry Road, Narragansett, RI 02882; Contact: Jason McNamee, 401-423-1943.

8. Wednesday, February 26, 7:00-8:00 PM - Connecticut Dept. of Energy and Environmental Protection Marine Headquarters Boating Education Center (Rear Building), 333 Ferry Road, Old Lyme, CT 06371; Contact: Justin Davis, 860-447-4322.

9. Thursday, February 27, 6:00-7:30 PM - Stony Brook University, School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences, Room 120 Endeavor Hall, Stony Brook, NY 11794-5000; Contact: Maureen Davidson, 631-444-0483.

10. Monday, March 2, 5:00-6:00 PM - Virginia Marine Resources Commission, 380 Fenwick Road, Building 96, Fort Monroe, VA 23651; Contact: Patrick Geer, 757-247-2078.

11. Tuesday, March 3, 6:00-7:30 PM - Internet Webinar, http://mafmc.adobeconnect.com/sfsbsb_com_rec_allocation_scoping/, Audio: 1-800-832-0736 and entering room number 5068871; Contact: Julia Beaty, 302-526-5250.

Please note that some hearings will be held in conjunction with (immediately before or after) supplemental scoping hearings for an ongoing Bluefish Allocation Amendment. A schedule for the bluefish hearings will be posted at: http://www.mafmc.org/actions/bluefish-allocation-amendment.

Written Comments

In addition to providing comments at any of the scheduled public hearings, you may submit written comments by 11:59 pm EDT on Tuesday, March 17, 2020. Written comments may be sent by any of the following methods:

1. ONLINE: http://www.mafmc.org/comments/sfsbsb-allocation-amendment

2. EMAIL: jbeaty@mafmc.org

3. MAIL or FAX: Dr. Christopher Moore, Executive Director
   Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council
   800 North State Street, Suite 201

   Dover, DE 19901

   FAX: 302.674.5399

Please include “Fluke/Scup/Sea Bass Allocation Amendment” in the subject line if using email or fax, or on the outside of the envelope if submitting written comments. All comments, regardless of submission method, will be compiled into a single document for review and consideration by both the Council and Commission. Please do not send separate comments to the Council and Commission.

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) will hold eleven supplemental scoping hearings to gather public input for the Bluefish Allocation and Rebuilding Amendment. The Council is developing this action in cooperation with the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (Commission) in order to (1) update the goals and objectives of the Bluefish Fishery Management Plan (FMP); (2) perform a comprehensive review of the bluefish sector allocations, commercial allocations to the states, and transfer processes; and (3) initiate a bluefish rebuilding plan. Scoping hearings will be held between February 13 and March 4, 2020. Written comments will be accepted through March 17, 2020.

An initial round of scoping was conducted in the summer of 2018 to gauge public interest in the development of an amendment. Since then, recalibrated Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP) estimates became available and were incorporated into the 2019 bluefish operational assessment. The assessment concluded that the stock was overfished but not experiencing overfishing. The Council and Commission subsequently recommended including the rebuilding plan into this ongoing amendment. Because the additional issue modifies the scope of the amendment, the Council is holding additional hearings to provide the public ample opportunities to comment on the expanded scope of the amendment.

Public comments during scoping will help the Council address issues of public concern in a thorough and appropriate manner. Some management questions for consideration in this amendment include:

• Are the existing goals and objectives appropriate for managing the bluefish fishery?

• Is the existing allocation between the commercial and recreational sectors based on the annual catch limit appropriate for managing the bluefish fishery?

• Are the existing commercial state allocations appropriate for managing the bluefish fishery?

• Are the existing transfer processes appropriate for managing the bluefish fishery?

• What is the appropriate approach to take for rebuilding?

Learn More

The Supplemental Scoping and Public Information Document linked below contains background information on bluefish management and on issues that may be addressed in the amendment. Additional information and updates on development of this amendment are available on the Council’s website at http://www.mafmc.org/actions/bluefish-allocation-amendment.

• Scoping and Public Information Document

Contact

Please direct any questions about the amendment to Matt Seeley, (302) 526-5262, mseeley@mafmc.org.

Hearing Schedule

1. February 13, 2020, 7:30-9:00 PM – Massachusetts Maritime Academy, Admiral's Hall, 101 Academy Drive, Buzzards Bay, MA 02532

2. February 18, 2020, 6:00-8:00 PM – Ocean County Administration Building – Room 119, 101 Hooper Avenue, Toms River, New Jersey 08753

3. February 19, 2020, 7:00-8:00 PM – Delaware Dept. of Natural Resources & Environmental Control Auditorium Richardson & Robbins Building, 89 Kings Highway, Dover, Delaware 19901

4. February 25, 2020, 4:45-6:00 PM – Berlin Library, 13 Harrison Ave. Berlin, MD 21811

5. February 26, 2020, 7:30-9:00 PM – University of Rhode Island Bay Campus, Corless Auditorium, South Ferry Road, Narragansett, Rhode Island 02882

6. February 26, 2020, 8:00-9:00 PM – Connecticut Dept. of Energy and Environmental Protection Marine Headquarters Boating Education Center (Rear Building), 333 Ferry Road, Old Lyme, CT 06371

7. February 27, 2020, 6:00-7:30 PM – NC Division of Marine Fisheries Central District Office, 5285 Highway 70 West, Morehead City, North Carolina 28557

8. February 27, 2020, 7:30-9:00 PM – Stony Brook University, School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences, Room 120 Endeavour Hall; Stony Brook, NY 11794

9. March 2, 2020, 6:00-8:00 PM – Merritt Island Service Center Complex, 2575 N. Courtenay Pkwy #205, Merritt Island, FL 32953

10. March 2, 2020, 6:00-7:00 PM – Virginia Marine Resources Commission, 380 Fenwick Road Bldg 96 Fort Monroe, VA 23651

11. March 4, 2020, 6:00-7:30 PM – Internet webinar: http://mafmc.adobeconnect.com/bf_allocation_rebuilding_scoping/. For audio-only access, dial 800-832-0736 and enter room number 5068609.

Please note that some hearings will be held immediately before or after scoping hearings for an ongoing Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Commercial/Recreational Allocation Amendment. A schedule for those hearings is available at http://www.mafmc.org/newsfeed/2020/mafmc-asmfc-sfsbsb-allocation-scoping-hearings.  

Written Comments

In addition to providing comments at any of the scheduled public hearings, you may submit written comments by 11:59 pm EDT on Tuesday, March 17, 2020. Written comments may be sent by any of the following methods:

1. ONLINE: http://www.mafmc.org/comments/bluefish-allocation-rebuilding-amendment

2. EMAIL: mseeley@mafmc.org

3. MAIL or FAX: Dr. Christopher Moore, Executive Director
   Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council
   800 North State Street, Suite 201
   Dover, DE 19901
   FAX: 302.674.5399

Please include “Bluefish Scoping Comments” in the subject line if using email or fax, or on the outside of the envelope if submitting written comments. All comments, regardless of submission method, will be compiled into a single document for review and consideration by both the Council and Commission.

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) will hold eleven supplemental scoping hearings to gather public input for the Bluefish Allocation and Rebuilding Amendment. The Council is developing this action in cooperation with the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (Commission) in order to (1) update the goals and objectives of the Bluefish Fishery Management Plan (FMP); (2) perform a comprehensive review of the bluefish sector allocations, commercial allocations to the states, and transfer processes; and (3) initiate a bluefish rebuilding plan. Scoping hearings will be held between February 13 and March 4, 2020. Written comments will be accepted through March 17, 2020.

An initial round of scoping was conducted in the summer of 2018 to gauge public interest in the development of an amendment. Since then, recalibrated Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP) estimates became available and were incorporated into the 2019 bluefish operational assessment. The assessment concluded that the stock was overfished but not experiencing overfishing. The Council and Commission subsequently recommended including the rebuilding plan into this ongoing amendment. Because the additional issue modifies the scope of the amendment, the Council is holding additional hearings to provide the public ample opportunities to comment on the expanded scope of the amendment.

Public comments during scoping will help the Council address issues of public concern in a thorough and appropriate manner. Some management questions for consideration in this amendment include:

• Are the existing goals and objectives appropriate for managing the bluefish fishery?

• Is the existing allocation between the commercial and recreational sectors based on the annual catch limit appropriate for managing the bluefish fishery?

• Are the existing commercial state allocations appropriate for managing the bluefish fishery?

• Are the existing transfer processes appropriate for managing the bluefish fishery?

• What is the appropriate approach to take for rebuilding?

Learn More

The Supplemental Scoping and Public Information Document linked below contains background information on bluefish management and on issues that may be addressed in the amendment. Additional information and updates on development of this amendment are available on the Council’s website at http://www.mafmc.org/actions/bluefish-allocation-amendment.

• Scoping and Public Information Document

Contact

Please direct any questions about the amendment to Matt Seeley, (302) 526-5262, mseeley@mafmc.org.

Hearing Schedule

1. February 13, 2020, 7:30-9:00 PM – Massachusetts Maritime Academy, Admiral's Hall, 101 Academy Drive, Buzzards Bay, MA 02532

2. February 18, 2020, 6:00-8:00 PM – Ocean County Administration Building – Room 119, 101 Hooper Avenue, Toms River, New Jersey 08753

3. February 19, 2020, 7:00-8:00 PM – Delaware Dept. of Natural Resources & Environmental Control Auditorium Richardson & Robbins Building, 89 Kings Highway, Dover, Delaware 19901

4. February 25, 2020, 4:45-6:00 PM – Berlin Library, 13 Harrison Ave. Berlin, MD 21811

5. February 26, 2020, 7:30-9:00 PM – University of Rhode Island Bay Campus, Corless Auditorium, South Ferry Road, Narragansett, Rhode Island 02882

6. February 26, 2020, 8:00-9:00 PM – Connecticut Dept. of Energy and Environmental Protection Marine Headquarters Boating Education Center (Rear Building), 333 Ferry Road, Old Lyme, CT 06371

7. February 27, 2020, 6:00-7:30 PM – NC Division of Marine Fisheries Central District Office, 5285 Highway 70 West, Morehead City, North Carolina 28557

8. February 27, 2020, 7:30-9:00 PM – Stony Brook University, School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences, Room 120 Endeavour Hall; Stony Brook, NY 11794

9. March 2, 2020, 6:00-8:00 PM – Merritt Island Service Center Complex, 2575 N. Courtenay Pkwy #205, Merritt Island, FL 32953

10. March 2, 2020, 6:00-7:00 PM – Virginia Marine Resources Commission, 380 Fenwick Road Bldg 96 Fort Monroe, VA 23651

11. March 4, 2020, 6:00-7:30 PM – Internet webinar: http://mafmc.adobeconnect.com/bf_allocation_rebuilding_scoping/. For audio-only access, dial 800-832-0736 and enter room number 5068609.

Please note that some hearings will be held immediately before or after scoping hearings for an ongoing Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Commercial/Recreational Allocation Amendment. A schedule for those hearings is available at http://www.mafmc.org/newsfeed/2020/mafmc-asmfc-sfsbsb-allocation-scoping-hearings.  

Written Comments

In addition to providing comments at any of the scheduled public hearings, you may submit written comments by 11:59 pm EDT on Tuesday, March 17, 2020. Written comments may be sent by any of the following methods:

1. ONLINE: http://www.mafmc.org/comments/bluefish-allocation-rebuilding-amendment

2. EMAIL: mseeley@mafmc.org

3. MAIL or FAX: Dr. Christopher Moore, Executive Director
   Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council
   800 North State Street, Suite 201
   Dover, DE 19901
   FAX: 302.674.5399

Please include “Bluefish Scoping Comments” in the subject line if using email or fax, or on the outside of the envelope if submitting written comments. All comments, regardless of submission method, will be compiled into a single document for review and consideration by both the Council and Commission.

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) and the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (Commission) have scheduled a series of scoping hearings to gather public input on the range of issues and information to be considered in the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Commercial/Recreational Allocation Amendment. Hearings will be held February 13 – March 3. Written comments will be accepted through March 17, 2020. All comments provided at public hearings or in writing will be presented to the Council and Commission. 

This amendment will consider potential modifications to the allocations of catch or landings between the commercial and recreational sectors for summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass. The commercial and recreational allocations for all three species were set in the mid-1990s based on historical proportions of landings (for summer flounder and black sea bass) or catch (for scup) from each sector. In July 2018, the Marine Recreational Information Program released revisions to its time series of catch (harvest and discards) estimates. These revisions resulted in much higher recreational catch estimates compared to previous estimates, affecting the entire time series of data going back to 1981. Some changes have also been made to commercial catch data since the allocations were established. The current commercial and recreational allocation percentages for all three species do not reflect the current understanding of the recent and historic proportions of catch and landings from the two sectors. This amendment will consider whether changes to these allocations are warranted.

Scoping is the first and best opportunity to raise concerns related to the scope of issues that will be considered. You are encouraged to submit comments on which options may or may not be useful or practical for meeting the goal of this action and any other relevant issues the Council and Commission should consider.

Learn More

The Scoping and Public Information Document linked below contains background information on summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass management and on issues that may be addressed in the amendment, as well as a description of the amendment process and timeline. Additional information and updates on development of this amendment are available on the amendment action page.

• Scoping and Public Information Document

Contacts

• Julia Beaty, Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, jbeaty@mafmc.org, 302-526-5250

• Dustin Colson Leaning, Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, dleaning@asmfc.org, 703-842-0740

Hearing Schedule

1. Thursday, February 13, 6:00-7:30 PM - Massachusetts Maritime Academy, Admiral’s Hall, 101 Academy Drive, Buzzards Bay, MA 02532; Contact: Nichola Meserve, 617-626-1531.

2. Wednesday, February 19, 6:00-7:00 PM - Delaware Dept. of Natural Resources & Environmental Control, DNREC Auditorium, Richards & Robbins Building, 89 Kings Highway, Dover, DE 19901; Contact: John Clark, 302-739-9914.

3. Monday, February 24, 6:00-8:00 PM - Belmar Municipal Court Room, 601 Main Street, Belmar, NJ 07719; Contact: Joe Cimino, 609-748-2020.

4. Tuesday, February 25, 3:30-4:45 PM - Berlin Library, 13 Harrison Avenue, Berlin, MD 21811; Contact: Steve Doctor, 410-213-1531.

5. Tuesday, February 25, 6:00-8:00 PM - Galloway Township Branch Library, 306 East Jimmie Leeds Road, Galloway, NJ 08205; Contact: Joe Cimino, 609-748-2020.

6. Tuesday, February 25, 6:00-8:00 PM - North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries, Pamlico District Office, 943 Washington Square Mall, US Highway 17, Washington, NC 27889; Contact: Chris Batsavage, 252-808-8009.

7. Wednesday, February 26, 6:00-7:30 PM - University of Rhode Island Bay Campus, Corless Auditorium, South Ferry Road, Narragansett, RI 02882; Contact: Jason McNamee, 401-423-1943.

8. Wednesday, February 26, 7:00-8:00 PM - Connecticut Dept. of Energy and Environmental Protection Marine Headquarters Boating Education Center (Rear Building), 333 Ferry Road, Old Lyme, CT 06371; Contact: Justin Davis, 860-447-4322.

9. Thursday, February 27, 6:00-7:30 PM - Stony Brook University, School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences, Room 120 Endeavor Hall, Stony Brook, NY 11794-5000; Contact: Maureen Davidson, 631-444-0483.

10. Monday, March 2, 5:00-6:00 PM - Virginia Marine Resources Commission, 380 Fenwick Road, Building 96, Fort Monroe, VA 23651; Contact: Patrick Geer, 757-247-2078.

11. Tuesday, March 3, 6:00-7:30 PM - Internet Webinar, http://mafmc.adobeconnect.com/sfsbsb_com_rec_allocation_scoping/, Audio: 1-800-832-0736 and entering room number 5068871; Contact: Julia Beaty, 302-526-5250.

Please note that some hearings will be held in conjunction with (immediately before or after) supplemental scoping hearings for an ongoing Bluefish Allocation Amendment. A schedule for the bluefish hearings will be posted at: http://www.mafmc.org/actions/bluefish-allocation-amendment.

Written Comments

In addition to providing comments at any of the scheduled public hearings, you may submit written comments by 11:59 pm EDT on Tuesday, March 17, 2020. Written comments may be sent by any of the following methods:

1. ONLINE: http://www.mafmc.org/comments/sfsbsb-allocation-amendment

2. EMAIL: jbeaty@mafmc.org

3. MAIL or FAX: Dr. Christopher Moore, Executive Director
   Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council
   800 North State Street, Suite 201

   Dover, DE 19901

   FAX: 302.674.5399

Please include “Fluke/Scup/Sea Bass Allocation Amendment” in the subject line if using email or fax, or on the outside of the envelope if submitting written comments. All comments, regardless of submission method, will be compiled into a single document for review and consideration by both the Council and Commission. Please do not send separate comments to the Council and Commission.

The South Atlantic Fishery Management Council is considering adding bullet mackerel and frigate mackerel to the Dolphin Wahoo FMP as ecosystem component species, acknowledging the role the two currently unmanaged species play as important prey for both dolphin and wahoo.      

The South Atlantic Council has scheduled two public scoping meetings to gather public input on this issue:

• Tuesday, May 7 at 6:00 PM  Webinar registration  

• Thursday, May 9 at 6:00 PM Webinar registration

Learn more about upcoming public hearing and scoping meetings at: http://safmc.net/safmc-meetings/public-hearings-scoping-meetings/

The South Atlantic Fishery Management Council is considering adding bullet mackerel and frigate mackerel to the Dolphin Wahoo FMP as ecosystem component species, acknowledging the role the two currently unmanaged species play as important prey for both dolphin and wahoo.      

The South Atlantic Council has scheduled two public scoping meetings to gather public input on this issue:

• Tuesday, May 7 at 6:00 PM  Webinar registration  

• Thursday, May 9 at 6:00 PM Webinar registration

Learn more about upcoming public hearing and scoping meetings at: http://safmc.net/safmc-meetings/public-hearings-scoping-meetings/

This hearing will be held via webinar at the link below. For assistance with the webinar, please call 302-397-1131.

Webinar: http://mafmc.adobeconnect.com/msb-scoping-2019/

Telephone instructions are provided upon connecting, or call direct: 800-832-0736, Rm: *7833942#.

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council will hold an additional webinar scoping hearing to solicit public input on an amendment to review and consider modifications to both the permitting system for Illex squid and the goals and objectives of the entire Mackerel, Squid, Butterfish Fishery Management Plan (FMP).

There is also a separate written comment period for this action, see https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2019/02/19/2019-02697/fisheries-of-the-northeastern-united-states-atlantic-mackerel-squid-and-butterfish-fisheries-scoping. The Council will also accept comments during its April 2019 Council meeting, and that meeting will be noticed separately.

In June 2017, the Council considered, but did not adopt, revisions to Illex squid permits as part of Amendment 20 to the FMP. Since then, effort and landings have increased and the fishery closed early in both 2017 and 2018 after fully harvesting the available Illex squid quota. Given recent fishery performance, the Council is evaluating if permitted access to the Illex fishery should be modified based on recent and historical participation, and/or other considerations. In addition, existing FMP goals and objectives have not been revised since they were originally established. The Council is seeking input whether these goals and objectives are still appropriate for managing the Atlantic mackerel, squid, and butterfish fisheries or if they should be modified.

The scoping period is an important opportunity for members of the public to raise concerns related to the scope of issues that will be considered in the amendment and the general focus of the action. Public comments during scoping will help the Council address issues of public concern in a thorough and appropriate manner.

Additional information and updates on this action will be posted on the Council’s website at: http://www.mafmc.org/actions/illex-permitting-msb-goals-amendment and in the scoping guide.

Please direct any questions about the amendment to Jason Didden (jdidden@mafmc.org, 302- 526-5254).

This hearing will be held via webinar at the link below. A listening station will be available at the new Virginia Marine Resources Commission (380 Fenwick Road, Ft. Monroe, VA 23651, 757-247-2200). For assistance with the webinar, please call 302-397-1131.

Webinar: http://mafmc.adobeconnect.com/msb-scoping-2019/

Telephone instructions are provided upon connecting, or call direct: 800-832-0736, Rm: *7833942#.

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council will hold four scoping hearings in February 2019 to solicit public input on an amendment to review and consider modifications to both the permitting system for Illex squid and the goals and objectives of the entire Mackerel, Squid, Butterfish Fishery Management Plan (FMP). There will also be a separate written comment period for this action which will be announced at a later date.

In June 2017, the Council considered, but did not adopt, revisions to Illex squid permits as part of Amendment 20 to the FMP. Since then, effort and landings have increased and the fishery closed early in both 2017 and 2018 after fully harvesting the available Illex squid quota. Given recent fishery performance, the Council is evaluating if permitted access to the Illex fishery should be modified based on recent and historical participation, and/or other considerations. In addition, existing FMP goals and objectives have not been revised since they were originally established. The Council is seeking input whether these goals and objectives are still appropriate for managing the Atlantic mackerel, squid, and butterfish fisheries or if they should be modified.

The scoping period is an important opportunity for members of the public to raise concerns related to the scope of issues that will be considered in the amendment and the general focus of the action. Public comments during scoping will help the Council address issues of public concern in a thorough and appropriate manner.

Hearing Schedule

1. Monday, February 4, 2019, 6:00 pm, Corless Auditorium, University of Rhode Island Bay Campus, 215 South Ferry Road, Narragansett, RI 02882, 401-874-6440

2. Tuesday, February 5, 2019, 5:30 pm, Gurney's Inn, 290 Old Montauk Hwy, Montauk, NY 11954, 631-668-2345

3. Wednesday, February 6, 2019, 5:30 pm, Congress Hall Hotel, 200 Congress Place, Cape May, NJ 08204, 609-884-8421

4. Thursday, February 7, 2019, 6:00 pm, Internet webinar: http://mafmc.adobeconnect.com/msb-scoping-2019/. A listening station will be available at the new Virginia Marine Resources Commission (380 Fenwick Road, Ft. Monroe, VA 23651, 757-247-2200). For assistance with the webinar, please call 302-397-1131.

Additional information and updates on this action will be posted on the Council’s website at: http://www.mafmc.org/actions/illex-permitting-msb-goals-amendment and in the scoping guide.

Please direct any questions about the amendment to Jason Didden (jdidden@mafmc.org, 302- 526-5254).

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council will hold four scoping hearings in February 2019 to solicit public input on an amendment to review and consider modifications to both the permitting system for Illex squid and the goals and objectives of the entire Mackerel, Squid, Butterfish Fishery Management Plan (FMP). There will also be a separate written comment period for this action which will be announced at a later date.

In June 2017, the Council considered, but did not adopt, revisions to Illex squid permits as part of Amendment 20 to the FMP. Since then, effort and landings have increased and the fishery closed early in both 2017 and 2018 after fully harvesting the available Illex squid quota. Given recent fishery performance, the Council is evaluating if permitted access to the Illex fishery should be modified based on recent and historical participation, and/or other considerations. In addition, existing FMP goals and objectives have not been revised since they were originally established. The Council is seeking input whether these goals and objectives are still appropriate for managing the Atlantic mackerel, squid, and butterfish fisheries or if they should be modified.

The scoping period is an important opportunity for members of the public to raise concerns related to the scope of issues that will be considered in the amendment and the general focus of the action. Public comments during scoping will help the Council address issues of public concern in a thorough and appropriate manner.

Hearing Schedule

1. Monday, February 4, 2019, 6:00 pm, Corless Auditorium, University of Rhode Island Bay Campus, 215 South Ferry Road, Narragansett, RI 02882, 401-874-6440

2. Tuesday, February 5, 2019, 5:30 pm, Gurney's Inn, 290 Old Montauk Hwy, Montauk, NY 11954, 631-668-2345

3. Wednesday, February 6, 2019, 5:30 pm, Congress Hall Hotel, 200 Congress Place, Cape May, NJ 08204, 609-884-8421

4. Thursday, February 7, 2019, 6:00 pm, Internet webinar: http://mafmc.adobeconnect.com/msb-scoping-2019/. A listening station will be available at the new Virginia Marine Resources Commission (380 Fenwick Road, Ft. Monroe, VA 23651, 757-247-2200). For assistance with the webinar, please call 302-397-1131.

Additional information and updates on this action will be posted on the Council’s website at: http://www.mafmc.org/actions/illex-permitting-msb-goals-amendment and in the scoping guide.

Please direct any questions about the amendment to Jason Didden (jdidden@mafmc.org, 302- 526-5254).

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council will hold four scoping hearings in February 2019 to solicit public input on an amendment to review and consider modifications to both the permitting system for Illex squid and the goals and objectives of the entire Mackerel, Squid, Butterfish Fishery Management Plan (FMP). There will also be a separate written comment period for this action which will be announced at a later date.

In June 2017, the Council considered, but did not adopt, revisions to Illex squid permits as part of Amendment 20 to the FMP. Since then, effort and landings have increased and the fishery closed early in both 2017 and 2018 after fully harvesting the available Illex squid quota. Given recent fishery performance, the Council is evaluating if permitted access to the Illex fishery should be modified based on recent and historical participation, and/or other considerations. In addition, existing FMP goals and objectives have not been revised since they were originally established. The Council is seeking input whether these goals and objectives are still appropriate for managing the Atlantic mackerel, squid, and butterfish fisheries or if they should be modified.

The scoping period is an important opportunity for members of the public to raise concerns related to the scope of issues that will be considered in the amendment and the general focus of the action. Public comments during scoping will help the Council address issues of public concern in a thorough and appropriate manner.

Hearing Schedule

1. Monday, February 4, 2019, 6:00 pm, Corless Auditorium, University of Rhode Island Bay Campus, 215 South Ferry Road, Narragansett, RI 02882, 401-874-6440

2. Tuesday, February 5, 2019, 5:30 pm, Gurney's Inn, 290 Old Montauk Hwy, Montauk, NY 11954, 631-668-2345

3. Wednesday, February 6, 2019, 5:30 pm, Congress Hall Hotel, 200 Congress Place, Cape May, NJ 08204, 609-884-8421

4. Thursday, February 7, 2019, 6:00 pm, Internet webinar: http://mafmc.adobeconnect.com/msb-scoping-2019/. A listening station will be available at the new Virginia Marine Resources Commission (380 Fenwick Road, Ft. Monroe, VA 23651, 757-247-2200). For assistance with the webinar, please call 302-397-1131.

Additional information and updates on this action will be posted on the Council’s website at: http://www.mafmc.org/actions/illex-permitting-msb-goals-amendment and in the scoping guide.

Please direct any questions about the amendment to Jason Didden (jdidden@mafmc.org, 302- 526-5254).

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council will hold four scoping hearings in February 2019 to solicit public input on an amendment to review and consider modifications to both the permitting system for Illex squid and the goals and objectives of the entire Mackerel, Squid, Butterfish Fishery Management Plan (FMP). There will also be a separate written comment period for this action which will be announced at a later date.

In June 2017, the Council considered, but did not adopt, revisions to Illex squid permits as part of Amendment 20 to the FMP. Since then, effort and landings have increased and the fishery closed early in both 2017 and 2018 after fully harvesting the available Illex squid quota. Given recent fishery performance, the Council is evaluating if permitted access to the Illex fishery should be modified based on recent and historical participation, and/or other considerations. In addition, existing FMP goals and objectives have not been revised since they were originally established. The Council is seeking input whether these goals and objectives are still appropriate for managing the Atlantic mackerel, squid, and butterfish fisheries or if they should be modified.

The scoping period is an important opportunity for members of the public to raise concerns related to the scope of issues that will be considered in the amendment and the general focus of the action. Public comments during scoping will help the Council address issues of public concern in a thorough and appropriate manner.

Hearing Schedule

1. Monday, February 4, 2019, 6:00 pm, Corless Auditorium, University of Rhode Island Bay Campus, 215 South Ferry Road, Narragansett, RI 02882, 401-874-6440

2. Tuesday, February 5, 2019, 5:30 pm, Gurney's Inn, 290 Old Montauk Road, Montauk, NY 11954, 631-668-2345

3. Wednesday, February 6, 2019, 5:30 pm, Congress Hall Hotel, 200 Congress Place, Cape May, NJ 08204, 609-884-8421

4. Thursday, February 7, 2019, 6:00 pm, Internet webinar: http://mafmc.adobeconnect.com/msb-scoping-2019/. A listening station will be available at the new Virginia Marine Resources Commission (380 Fenwick Road, Ft. Monroe, VA 23651, 757-247-2200). For assistance with the webinar, please call 302-397-1131.

Additional information and updates on this action will be posted on the Council’s website at: http://www.mafmc.org/actions/illex-permitting-msb-goals-amendment and in the scoping guide.

Please direct any questions about the amendment to Jason Didden (jdidden@mafmc.org, 302- 526-5254).

Webinar Link: http://mafmc.adobeconnect.com/bfscopinghearing/. Telephone instructions are provided upon connecting, or the public can call direct: (800) 832–0736, Rm: *5068609#