MA pushes to modify ‘ambiguous’ zero tolerance lobster v-notch rule

PHILADELPHIA, PA — The Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries (DMF) is trying to persuade the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) to allow the commonwealth to change its “zero tolerance” v-notch possession rule to a 1/8~ standard in Area 1.
Area 1 covers the Gulf of Maine, and most Massachusetts lobstermen fish there primarily in Statistical Area 514.
DMF officials stress that they are only seeking this change for Massachusetts lobstermen.  Maine and New Hampshire could continue to adhere to zero tolerance in Area 1 if they choose to under the commonwealth’s proposal.

Read the rest and much, much more in the December issue of Commercial Fisheries News. Read online immediately and download for future reference.

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Commercial Fisheries News is the Northeast’s commercial fishing industry newspaper. Published monthly, CFN provides the latest waterfront news along with coverage of the state and federal rules and regulations affecting the harvest of all the region’s major species. Regular features include lobster and fish market reports, a safety column, new boats, the enforcement report, and the popular and effective Classifieds.

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