NOAA slowdowns and new science delay the usual ‘scramble’ to set fishing catch limits
The start of this year’s commercial fishing season could be a bust for fishermen who catch groundfish species like cod, haddock and flounder. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has yet to approve new catch limits for the season slated to open May 1. People in the fishing industry said the annual process has been delayed by changes to the science used to measure cod populations, and the Trump administration’s cuts to the agency. The fishery is in the final week of the current season, and if the regulations aren’t finalized in time for the new season to begin, the fishery may close. That would deal a blow to many fishermen who already struggle to make a living.” People’s livelihoods and businesses depend on it,” said retired groundfish fisherman Frank Mirarchi of Scituate. A delay would be especially hard coming off a brutal winter that Mirarchi said hurt many fishermen’s bottom line. Photos, more, >>CLICK TO READ<< 15:29
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