Maryland Senate Bill SJ2

Maryland 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/23
• Refer: 2/6/23

Caption

Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission - Atlantic Menhaden - Prohibition on Commercial Reduction Fishing

Impact

If adopted, SJ2 could lead to significant changes in the management of Atlantic menhaden fishing practices. The bill highlights past concerns about the overharvesting of menhaden, pointing out that state-established caps on their commercial harvest have previously been exceeded. This concern reflects a broader objective of maintaining a sustainable fishery, which is crucial for the local ecosystem and fishing industry within the Chesapeake Bay region.

Summary

Senate Joint Resolution 2 (SJ2) seeks to address the issue of commercial reduction fishing of Atlantic menhaden in the Chesapeake Bay. The resolution requests the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission to consider prohibiting this practice, which includes the use of purse seines and spotter planes. The bill emphasizes the ecological and economic significance of Atlantic menhaden, which serve as a critical link in the marine food chain and are essential for the health of various predator species, including rockfish, osprey, and bald eagles.

Contention

The resolution does not seem to have broad opposition; however, it does raise important questions regarding the balance between commercial interests and ecological preservation. With the commercial reduction fishery relying on methods that could deplete fish populations, stakeholders may diverge in their opinions on the economic implications versus environmental responsibility. The bill also resonates within a larger framework of fishery management, requiring careful consideration of the potential adverse effects of prohibiting certain fishing practices.