NEW BEDFORD – Local fishermen who have blasted a new fisheries management system due to take effect on May 1 – saying the new rules will put them out of business – will have the chance to voice their concerns on Monday as the Whaling City hosts the Northeast Fisheries Summit.
The future and sustainability of the fishing industry in New England and near-and mid-Atlantic ports will be the focus of the day-long discussion at the Whaling Museum, which is expected to be attended by Eric Schwaab, the newly appointed Assistant Administrator for Fisheries with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
Cong. Barney Frank (D-Mass.), fishing industry leaders, scientists, elected officials, environmentalists and government officials from across the Northeastern region are also expected to attend the summit, according to Mayor Scott W. Lang.
"We all recognize the importance of achieving a sustainable fisheries management plan," said Mayor Lang. "I look forward to an open discussion about how we can ensure a balance of sensible conservation practices with the economic vitality of the fishing industry. It is appropriate that this discussion take place in New Bedford, the nation's top-ranked value port."