There are serious problems present in the Atlantic Menhaden stock and fishery. There has been an 86% decline in the stock since 1979, yet ASMFC assures us from data mainly derived from Omega Protein (the reduction fleet) that the stock is basically healthy and sustainable and not overfished.
Currently in 2010 the reduction landings at Reedville, Virginia are 21.7% greater than the 5 year average and 624% higher on a year to date basis than in 2009. Several recent events have taken place that will further potentially put added stress on the stock.
The Gulf oil spill may adversely affect the Gulf of Mexico Menhaden catch severely, thus potentially increasing the pressure on the Atlantic stock for reduction purposes. Recent very severe restrictions in the Ocean Herring fishery will tend to shift focus toward Menhaden, and in particular off of New Jersey by New England based boats. The Menhaden will be used as a substitute for the herring as bait in the New England lobster fishery. In fact, this increased fishing within state waters is already occurring.
The Maryland Saltwater Sportsmen’s Association and many other stakeholder groups have united to form a group called The Menhaden Coalition. This coalition recognizes the critical role of menhaden in the complex ecosystems of the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean. Accordingly, they seek responsible management of the menhaden resource so that menhaden are present in sufficient quantity to fulfill their ecological roles as forage for fish and birds, human usage and as filter feeders. We can review some of the proposals and changes they are promoting to correct the ASMFC management deficiencies at the June 2010 meeting.
JCAA has been asked join this coalition. We will put this request up for a vote at the June 2010 General Meeting.
