The summer shark-fishing season may still be saved, if New Jersey can convince federal fisheries regulators that it is committed to adopting a long-delayed package of rules that include conservation measures for sandbar sharks and other coastal species.
The state Department of Environmental Protection "will work with the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission to see that the summer shark season goes ahead without disruption," said DEP Assistant Commissioner Amy Cradic, hours after the commission announced that New Jersey is officially out of compliance with the interstate shark management plan, and potentially subject to a ban on shark fishing enforced by federal order.
"We need to show the commission we are making progress," Cradic said.
The shark regulations need to be published in the New Jersey state Register, public comment obtained and the regulations adopted — a process that could go to September while the commission and federal authorities hopefully delay any further action, she said.
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