The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has just released the first phase of an independent assessment of the fishery management system in New England
 
The New England fishing industry has had more than its fair share of economic problems, some of them caused by severe catch restrictions. Three weeks ago US government officials toured a number of fishing ports in the region to assess the latest situation.
 
The review included interviews with 179 fishermen, other industry participants, local government officials, academic institution partners, members of fishery management councils, and NOAA regional and science centre staff. The phase one report offers findings and recommendations based on those interviews.
 
Eric Schwaab, assistant NOAA administrator for NOAA’s Fisheries Service, says in his report: "We are making progress ending overfishing and rebuilding stocks around the nation. And we are turning a corner in New England as we see important fish stocks rebounding, catch limits being raised for the new fishing year and fishermen taking greater control over their businesses.
 
"This management report will help us make improvements to better assist fishermen across the region during this time of economic challenge and transition."
 
He adds: "The challenges we face in New England, home of the nation’s oldest fishing communities, did not happen overnight. Lasting solutions will take some time. This report notes that progress is being made in a number of areas. It is critical that NOAA partner with the New England Fishery Management Council as we move forward to rebuild fisheries that support fishermen and seafood businesses in diverse, economically vibrant coastal communities."

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