June 27, 2019 — The following was released by the New England Fishery Management Council:
The New England Fishery Management Council is seeking public comment on the Management Strategy Evaluation (MSE) process that was used to develop and analyze alternatives for a new acceptable biological catch (ABC) control rule in Amendment 8 to the Atlantic Herring Fishery Management Plan (FMP). The MSE process involved more public input through workshops and technical analysis earlier in the amendment development process than normal. Comments on the process are welcome until 8 a.m. on August 9, 2019.
This was the first time the Council used MSE in decision-making. The Council now is taking a step back to debrief and identify the benefits and/or drawbacks of the MSE process, as well as lessons learned. The Council especially wants to hear from: (1) stakeholders who were involved in the MSE process and attended a workshop; and (2) people who are invested in the future of herring management.