December 20, 2014 — Scallopers still may be affected by the New England Fishery Management Council’s Omnibus Habitat Amendment 2 when it goes into effect next year.
The Maine Department of Marine Resources held a public meeting Dec. 10 to provide information on the process.
This fishery management action will address habitat requirements for all fisheries managed by the New England Fishery Management Council (NEMFC) in federal waters and may impact Maine fishermen who operate in federal waters.
The amendment includes proposals for area closures for habitat protection, groundfish spawning and research. Implications include the possibility of closures for the scallop, quahog, halibut, shrimp, herring and groundfish fisheries.
Read the full story at the Mount Desert Islander