Marine Fisheries Director Proposes Extensive Removal of Gill Nets

posted 1/13/2010 3:02:06 PM

In a letter written to National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) Regional Administrator Roy Crabtree, North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries (NCDMF) director Dr. Louis Daniel proposes to close a large section of North Carolina estuarine waters to large mesh gill nets (larger than 3.5 inch mesh). The proposed closure, which would occur from May 15, 2010 through December 15, 2010, includes much of Pamlico Sound, Core Sound, Back Sound, and Cape Fear River.

The reason for the closure stems from the violation of the Endangered Species Act (ESA) as sea turtles frequently become entangled in gill nets and drown. Presently, the State of North Carolina has an exemption from the ESA, termed a section 10 permit, for part of the Pamlico Sound, where fishermen are allowed several hundred interactions with sea turtles; this area will not be affected by this proposal. Additionally, small mesh nets will be able to operate in the proposed closed areas; however they must be attended during the above-mentioned dates. This closure is only an interim closure, while the state applies for a section 10 permit for the entire state.

The Marine Fisheries Commission (MFC) will hear this proposal at their March 24-25 meeting in Kitty Hawk, and if favorably reviewed, Dr. Daniel will issue the rule by proclamation immediately thereafter.

While CCA NC applauds this temporary move, Director Daniel and the MFC must make permanent measures to eliminate the use destructive fishing gear from our estuarine waters, thereby providing a better future for our coastal resources. CCA NC will continue to work with the MFC and Director Daniel to ensure the proper management of our state's marine resources.