Oceana is the largest international advocacy group. They are working solely to protect the world’s oceans. Recently, they applauded a decision made yesterday by the United States District Court in Washington, D.C.. This decision is to establish annual catch limits and accountability measures. Especially for five fish species in New England and the Mid-Atlantic. Thereby ensuring that the species are not overfished.

In addition, below is a statement in response to the decision. This statement is by Oceana’s New England representative Gib Brogan.

Overfishing

“Yesterday’s decision by the United States District Court is a win for ocean conservation in New England and the Mid-Atlantic. This ruling also requires that protections are established for Atlantic halibut, ocean pout, windowpane flounder, Southern New England/Mid-Atlantic winter flounder and wolffish. For these are some of which are currently overfished.

In the first major court decision concerning the implementation of the Magnuson Stevens Reauthorization Act of 2006. For the law that governs fishery management in the U.S.. It was also ruled that the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) must ensure that overfishing does not occur. Most importantly for these five species. Specifically, the court found that while the fish are discarded by 98 percent of the fishery. I mean they are still being caught. Therefore, some may still be overfished, as bycatch. Accountability measures for each of these species are needed to keep this fishery in check.

Overfishing Ruling

This ruling will serve as a precedent to other fisheries facing overfishing as a result of bycatch. It will also require the implementation of accountability measures once an annual catch limit is exceeded.

Conclusion

Oceana is disappointed that the Court failed to require a more thorough environmental analysis of the fisheries and did not require more monitoring of bycatch. Oceana believes that NMFS is turning a blind eye to the unlawful catch of a wide range of species in these waters. That’s including striped bass and summer flounder.