Thursday, May 14, 2026

NOAA Fisheries FishNews—May 14, 2026

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MAY 14, 2026

Highlights

Magnuson-Stevens Act at 50: Charting a Course to Sustainable Fisheries

Fishing with dip nets in the 1940s and 2018. Credit: NOAA Fisheries Archives/G.T. Tooker (left); Shutterstock (right)

In April, we celebrated the 50 years since the United States signed the Magnuson-Stevens Act. This landmark law set the United States on a course toward sustainably and cooperatively managed marine resources. But in order to appreciate how far we’ve ventured, it helps to understand why we embarked.

International

United States Pushes for Stronger Action to Fight Illegal Fishing and Sustainably Manage Fisheries in the North Pacific 

A group of fish swimming in blue water Credit: Shutterstock

The United States advanced its goals to combat harmful fishing practices at the North Pacific Fisheries Commission’s annual meeting in Osaka, Japan. The U.S. delegation ensured the Commission addressed concerns about illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing; revised catch limits to rebuild fish stocks; and focused attention on unsustainable deep-sea bottom fisheries.

Alaska

NOAA Fisheries Finds Listing Gulf of Alaska Chinook Salmon Under the Endangered Species Act “Not Warranted” 

Spring Chinook Salmon. Credit: Michael Humling, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service

NOAA Fisheries has completed a status review and 12-month finding for Gulf of Alaska Chinook salmon in response to a January 2024 petition. We have determined that listing any of the three Evolutionarily Significant Units of Gulf of Alaska Chinook salmon under the Endangered Species Act is not warranted. This determination is based on the best available scientific and commercial information and the findings of the status review.

New England/Mid-Atlantic

Restoring Habitat for Great Lakes Fish at the Historic Edsel and Eleanor Ford Estate

View of Ford Cove where shoreline restoration is underway. Credit: InSite Design Studios, Inc.

With $7 million in funding, the Office of Habitat Conservation has established a unique partnership with Ford House—the historic 1920s estate of Eleanor and Edsel Ford. The partnership is rebuilding shoreline habitat for fish and other wildlife on Michigan’s Lake St. Clair, while expanding access and educational opportunities for visitors.

Those Who Go to Sea 

Crew of the F/V Miss Trish II at sea. Credit: NOAA Fisheries/Hannah Ciarametaro

What draws people to the ocean and fishing? Field scientist Hannah Ciarametaro recently asked the captain and crew of the F/V Miss Trish II that very question. Their stories touch on duty, pride, and the toll a life at sea can take on seafood harvesters and their families.

Southeast

Future of the Catch: the Modernization of Recreational Red Snapper Data Collection

Recreational anglers enjoy a day on the water in the Florida Keys. NOAA/Matt McIntosh

For many in the Southeast, red snapper fishing is a multi-generational tradition, making it a flagship species for the world’s largest recreational fishery. Effectively managing and preserving this vibrant species requires more than just accuracy; it demands a swift, responsive flow of data. Learn about three projects that are working to deliver faster, more efficient science by modernizing recreational red snapper data collection.

West Coast

NOAA Fisheries Announces Availability of $99 Million for Pacific Salmon

Male and female steelhead. Credit: NOAA Fisheries

The Pacific Coastal Salmon Recovery Fund will fund up to $99 million for conservation and recovery projects that support Pacific salmon. The funding supports Administration priorities by improving habitat and implementing other actions to increase the production of salmon and steelhead—fisheries that create jobs and put more domestic seafood on American plates.

New System Maps and Charts West Coast Fisheries Data to Inform Decisions on Ocean Uses 

Vessels docked in Newport, Oregon. Credit: Erin Steiner, NOAA Fisheries

A new mapping system combines decades of fisheries data and statistics to visualize West Coast fisheries and how they have changed over time. The new project—led by researchers at NOAA, state wildlife departments, and the Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission—is creating maps to inform marine planning, compare different uses of the ocean, and help visualize their implications for fisheries.

Breaking Barriers to “Big Earth Data”

Dr. Holmes. Credit: International Training Centre for Operational Oceanography

Dr. Elizabeth "Eli" Holmes recently received the prestigious Earth Science Information Partners Martha Maiden 2026 Award. Dr. Holmes’ 25-year career at NOAA Fisheries demonstrates a deep commitment to advancing open science, fostering collaboration across agencies, and inspiring the next generation of scientists.

Upcoming Deadlines

May 26: Proposals due for the Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council Pacific Island Fishery Governance and Policy Projects

May 28: Comments due on the preparation of the Alaska Aquaculture Opportunity Areas Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement

May 31: Fisherman Feedback period closes for the Gulf Council’s request for information on fishery ecosystem issues

June 1: Applications due for the U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Administration’s Port Infrastructure Development Program Discretionary Grant Opportunity

June 1: Comments due on Amendment 62: Modifications to Gulf of America Red Grouper Management Measures

June 1: Comments due for updates to the Greater Atlantic Region’s Catch Share Cost Recovery Programs

June 1: Nominations due for the 2026 Dr. Nancy Foster Habitat Conservation Award

June 2: Deadline to provide feedback to support improvements to vessel speed regulations

June 4: Comments due on the 2026 proposed Marine Mammal Protection Act List of Fisheries

June 8: Comments due on proposed quotas for North Atlantic swordfish, South Atlantic swordfish, northern albacore tuna, and bluefin tuna

June 15: Comments due on proposed listings and 12-month determinations for tope sharks under the Endangered Species Act

View more news and announcements

Upcoming Events

May 17: Ocean Fun Days 2026 in Sandy Hook, NJ

May 18–19: Webinar: Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council’s Stock Assessment Update of American Samoa Bottomfish Management Unit Species

June 1–3: Gulf Fishery Management Council meeting in Tampa, FL

June 1–9: North Pacific Fishery Management Council meeting in Vancouver, WA

June 8–12: South Atlantic Fishery Management Council meeting in St. Augustine, FL

June 9–11: Western Pacific Fishery Management Council meeting in Utulei, American Samoa

June 10–15: Pacific Fishery Management Council meeting in Spokane, WA

June 16–18: Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council meeting in Alexandria, VA

June 23–25: New England Fishery Management Council meeting in Mystic, CT

View more events

Federal Register Actions

Visit NOAA Fisheries' Rules & Regulations web page to learn more about recently proposed and finalized regulations in your region. 

Questions? Visit our website for national and regional contact information



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Sponsor the 2026 Apalachicola 3rd of July Waterfront Celebration

Apalachicola July 3rd Waterfront Celebration


Friday, July 3rd 2026 | 5:00pm- Until

Riverfront Park

Apalachicola, Fl


The Apalachicola July 3rd Waterfront Celebration is the highlight of summer in Apalachicola—an event that brings energy to our local businesses and creates lasting memories for our entire community. As we enter our fourth year hosting it, we invite you to take an active role in making it bigger, stronger, and more impactful than ever.

Planning is already underway for an exceptional celebration on Friday, July 3rd, 2026. With your support, we can elevate this event to new heights. Every dollar raised is reinvested directly into the celebration, enhancing its quality, expanding its reach, and increasing its benefit to our community.


Festivities begin at 5:00 PM at Riverfront Park, featuring live music, family-friendly activities, and a variety of outstanding local food vendors—many of them not-for-profit organizations supporting meaningful causes. The evening builds to a breathtaking fireworks display over the river, drawing thousands to our waterfront each year.


This event depends on one critical goal: raising $30,000 for the fireworks show alone. This is the event’s single largest expense—and the moment that defines the entire celebration. Without the support of sponsors like you, this signature experience simply would not be possible.


Your sponsorship is more than a donation—it’s a visible investment in our community and a powerful opportunity to showcase your business to a large and engaged audience. The Apalachicola Bay Chamber of Commerce cannot do this without the support of dedicated partners like you.


Stars & Stripes Sponsor – $1,100

Our premier level offers top billing with prominent name recognition on event signage and T-shirts. You’ll receive Facebook and website shoutouts, repeated main stage mentions throughout the day, and premium signage near the stage. Includes access for 8 guests to the Sponsor Tent with beverages, BBQ, and a courtyard view of the fireworks and live entertainment.


Red, White & Blue Sponsor – $750

Enjoy strong visibility with name placement on signage and T-shirts, along with social media and website recognition. Includes main stage mentions, park signage, and access for 4 guests to the Sponsor Tent with food, beverages, and prime viewing.


Independence Sponsor – $450

Receive name recognition on signage and T-shirts, plus Facebook and website shoutouts. Includes two main stage mentions, park signage, and access for 2 guests to the Sponsor Tent.


America 250 Sponsor – $250

Show your support with name placement on sponsor signage, social media and website recognition, and one main stage mention.


Help us reach our $30,000 goal and ensure the fireworks continue to light up Apalachicola for years to come. Your support is what makes this tradition possible—and keeps it growing.


Download Sponsor Form Here



Apalachicola Bay Chamber of Commerce

17 Ave E

Apalachicola, Fl 32320

www.apalachicolabay.org

850-653-9419




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Wednesday, May 13, 2026

Gulf County Chamber Member Spotlight and Business News

#shoplocal #shopgulfcountyfl

𝗠𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁

We’re proud to spotlight Excellence Physical Therapy, a trusted healthcare provider and valued member of the Gulf County Chamber of Commerce dedicated to helping patients restore movement, reduce pain, and improve overall wellness.

With locations in Port St. Joe and Lynn Haven, 𝗘𝘅𝗰𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗣𝗵𝘆𝘀𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗧𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗽𝘆 offers personalized, evidence-based care focused on helping patients return to the activities they love. Their experienced and compassionate team provides customized treatment plans designed around each patient’s unique needs and goals.


𝗦𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝗜𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝗱𝗲:

Physical therapy

Massage therapy

Hydro therapy and aquatic therapy

Sports injury rehabilitation

Work injury rehabilitation and conditioning

Wellness-focused treatment programs


Founded on a mission to help clients “resume their lifelong pursuit of health, fitness, and well-being,” Excellence Physical Therapy combines hands-on treatment with advanced technology and patient education to support long-term recovery and healthy living.


Their Port St. Joe clinic is located at:

528 Cecil G. Costin Sr. Blvd B, Port St. Joe, FL

𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻 𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗲: www.excellencephysicaltherapy.com


We’re proud to recognize Excellence Physical Therapy for the care, expertise, and commitment they bring to the health and wellness of our community!


#GulfCountyChamber #MemberSpotlight #ExcellencePhysicalTherapy #SupportLocal #PortStJoe

𝗠𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁

We’re proud to spotlight CubeSmart Self Storage, a trusted storage provider and valued member of the Gulf County Chamber of Commerce!


Conveniently located in Port St. Joe, 𝗖𝘂𝗯𝗲𝗦𝗺𝗮𝗿𝘁 offers a variety of clean, secure, and climate-controlled storage solutions designed to meet both residential and commercial needs. Whether you’re moving, downsizing, renovating, or simply need extra space, their facility provides flexible options with a strong focus on convenience and customer service.


𝗦𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀 & 𝗙𝗲𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲𝘀 𝗜𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝗱𝗲:

Climate-controlled storage units

Boat, RV, and vehicle storage

Drive-up access units

Month-to-month rental options

24/7 video recording and gated access

Online rentals and mobile app access for easy account management

CubeSmart is known for its well-maintained facility, friendly staff, and modern digital features that make renting and managing storage simple and stress-free. Customers can even reserve and move into units online with convenient same-day options.


𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻 𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗲:

http://www.cubesmart.com/.../port-saint-joe.../4753.html


We’re proud to recognize CubeSmart Climate Controlled Self Storage for providing dependable storage solutions that support residents, businesses, and visitors throughout Gulf County!


#GulfCountyChamber #MemberSpotlight #CubeSmart #ClimateControlledStorage #GulfCountyFL

𝗠𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁

We’re proud to spotlight the 𝗪𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗮𝗺 𝗝. ''𝗕𝗶𝗹𝗹𝘆 𝗝𝗼𝗲'' 𝗥𝗶𝘀𝗵 𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗿𝗲𝗮, a truly special destination and valued member of the Gulf County Chamber of Commerce dedicated to providing accessible outdoor recreation for visitors of all abilities.

Located on beautiful Cape San Blas, this unique 100-acre Florida State Park stretches from the Gulf to St. Joseph Bay and was specifically designed to provide recreational opportunities for people with disabilities, their families, and caregivers.


The park features a wide variety of accessible amenities, including:

A mile of pristine white-sand beach

Accessible boardwalks and nature trails

Beach wheelchairs and mobility equipment

A wheelchair-accessible swimming pool

Canoe and kayak launch access on St. Joseph Bay

Family-style accessible cabins for overnight stays


Visitors can enjoy activities such as swimming, fishing, birdwatching, paddling, shelling, hiking, and stargazing while experiencing the incredible natural beauty of the Forgotten Coast.


Named in honor of former Florida Representative Billy Joe Rish, the park continues his vision of creating a safe and inclusive outdoor space where everyone can experience the beauty of Florida’s coast.


𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻 𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗲:

http://www.floridastateparks.org/.../william-j-billy-joe...



We’re proud to recognize the William J. “Billy Joe” Rish Recreation Area for the inclusive experiences, natural beauty, and community impact they bring to Gulf County!


#GulfCountyChamber #MemberSpotlight #RishPark #FloridaStateParks #AccessibleTravel #CapeSanBlas #ForgottenCoast #SupportLocal

GCSC to Host Marine Safety Educational Workshop


Panama City, FL – Gulf Coast State College Unmanned Vehicle Systems (UVS) and WKGC, in partnership with the National Weather Service (NWS) Tallahassee and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Office of Coast Survey, will host a marine safety educational workshop on Monday, May 18, 2026.


The workshop is being offered during National Safe Boating Week with the goal of providing the boating community with education on safe navigation and hazardous weather to help ensure a safer experience for everyone on the water.


The workshop will be held on Monday, May 18, 2026, at the Gulf Coast State College Panama City Campus in the Charles Hilton Center, Room 302, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. CT. The workshop is free, and the public is invited to attend.


Registration is required. Please visit www.weather.gov/tae/workshop to register and find additional details, directions, and information about attending online/virtually.



For more information, please contact Brandon Smith at 850. 769.1551, ext. 4868.


𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗠𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗶𝘀 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗕𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀

Visit our NEW website for a complete list.

#shoplocal #supportlocal

Joe Whitmer

President/CEO

 

Gulf County Chamber of Commerce

321B Reid Ave

Port St Joe, FL

gulfchamber.org

850-227-1223 Office

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