An Act To Provide Guidance for the Development of Marine Fisheries Management Plans
Sec. 1. 12 MRSA §6171, sub-§2-A, as enacted by PL 1979, c. 404, is repealed and the following enacted in its place:
(1) Establish management goals and a long-term vision for the relevant fishery;
(2) Ensure the long-term viability of the resource and the relevant fishery;
(3) Provide for the rebuilding of any depleted fisheries;
(4) Provide for future opportunities and access to the relevant fishery;
(5) Provide the greatest overall benefit to the State, including biological, economic and social considerations; and
(6) Preserve the legacy of the seafood industry in the State and its benefits to the people of the State.
(1) Clearly articulated management goals and objectives;
(2) A description of the biology of the relevant species;
(3) A description of the relevant fishery;
(4) Any available information regarding stock status;
(5) Current management measures;
(6) Any recommendations to achieve goals and objectives; and
(7) Findings of current research and future research needs.
summary
This bill establishes general requirements for the development of fisheries management plans by the Commissioner of Marine Resources, including objectives plans must seek to address and the management and scientific content for the plans. The bill also provides that the commissioner may adopt a management plan or other policy on the conservation or regulation of marine organisms only after prior notice and public hearing and with the advice and consent of the Marine Resources Advisory Council. The bill requires that a management plan be developed with advice and input from the advisory council for the species for which the plan is developed, if such an advisory council exists.