The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says US Fishermen are making good progress toward ending domestic overfishing.
Assistant NOAA Administrator for Fisheries Eric Schwaab made the comment while testifying at a hearing Tuesday in front of the Senate Commerce Committee on the Magnuson-Stevens Act.
According to the most recent estimates, U.S. commercial and saltwater recreational fisheries support almost two million jobs and generate more than $160 billion in sales.
Schwaab talked about fishery management challenges, including improving the collection, analysis and accuracy of scientific information used to manage both recreational and commercial fisheries.
He indicated that NOAA Fisheries will continue to work hard with the regional fishery management councils, fishermen and the coastal communities to increase confidence in the management system and ensure productive and efficient fisheries.
Mr. Schwaab said that nearly $31 billion in sales and as many as 500,000 jobs are lost because our fisheries are not performing as well as they would if all stocks were rebuilt.
He added that “While the US is turning a corner toward a brighter future for fishermen and fishing communities, many fishermen are struggling in part as a result of years of decline in fishing opportunity.”
Schwaab said that NOAA is committed to working with fishermen and communities during this period of transition.
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