February 17, 2021 — The following was released by NOAA Fisheries:
NOAA Fisheries seeks comments on a proposed rule that would set the commercial harvest quotas for Atlantic surfclams and ocean quahogs for the 2021 through 2026 fishing years based on the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council’s recommendation.
The proposed quotas, which have remained unchanged since 2004, are:
- Atlantic surfclams: 3.4 million bushels
- Ocean quahogs: 5.36 million bushels
- Maine ocean quahogs: 100,000 Maine bushels
In addition, the Atlantic surfclam minimum size limit would be suspended for 2021, as it has been every year since 2005. There is currently no minimum size for ocean quahogs.
For more details on the proposed specifications, read the proposed rule as published in the Federal Register, and submit your comments through the online portal. The comment period is open through March 4, 2021.
Questions?
Industry: Contact Laura Hansen, Sustainable Fisheries Division, 978-281-9225
Media: Contact Jennifer Goebel, Regional Office, 978-281-9175