Letter to the Hon. Wilbur Ross, Secretary of the U.S. Department of Commerce - Pallone Supports NJ's Flounder Recommendations in Letter to Commerce Secretary
Letter
Dear Secretary Ross:
I write regarding the ongoing federal review of the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) finding that the state of New Jersey is out of compliance with ASMFC's Addendum XXVIII to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Interstate Fishery Management Plan. I firmly believe that New Jersey is making every reasonable effort to chart a course forward that adequately balances conservation with the economic needs of fishermen and fishing communities, and I ask that you give the state's approach a fair and thorough review.
New Jersey has proposed that the summer flounder size limit be decreased to 18 inches, with a 104-day fishing season and a 3 bag limit. The state is arguing that its summer flounder regulations reach conservation equivalency with federal regulations, and that its regulations will actually preserve the stock by reducing discard mortality.
I respectfully request that you carefully consider the state's arguments and technical data as you make your decision about whether to find New Jersey out of compliance. Imposing a moratorium on summer flounder fishing in New Jersey would have a devastating impact on the economies of coastal communities that rely on the recreational fishing industry in my Congressional district. Additionally, reaching that determination while there continue to be compelling technical and scientific reasons to question the initial decision to cut summer flounder quotas will further erode anglers' trust in entities like ASMFC, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and other fisheries management bodies.
Much work needs to be done to reform how we manage our recreational and commercial fisheries, but that work must take into account the facts on the ground and the opinions of those who would be most-directly impacted. I appreciate your consideration of my views, and I hope you will give the argument presented by the state of New Jersey your careful consideration.
Sincerely,
FRANK PALLONE, JR.
Member of Congress
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