The Commerce Department announced the appointment of 21 new and returning members to the eight regional fishery management councils – important partners with NOAA’s Fisheries Service in determining how ocean fisheries are managed.
The councils, established by the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, prepare fishery management plans for marine fish stocks in their regions. The councils fulfill the act’s charge to end and prevent overfishing and rebuild fish stocks to ensure sustainable fisheries. NOAA’s Fisheries Service works closely with the councils during plan development and also reviews, approves, and implements the management plans developed by the councils.
“The individuals selected for the councils are uniquely qualified for these important positions. They are the experts—fishermen and scientists, leaders in their regions—who will help us achieve sustainable fisheries and maintain vibrant fishing communities,” said Eric Schwaab, Assistant Administrator for NOAA’s Fisheries Service.
Council members represent diverse constituents including commercial and recreational fisheries, environmental interests, and academia. Each year, the Secretary of Commerce selects approximately one-third of the total of 72 appointed members to the eight regional councils. Twenty-one are being named or reappointed for the next term, which begins on August 11, 2011.
NOAA’s Fisheries Service annually solicits nominations from the governors of fishing states and oversees the annual appointment process. The Secretary must select council members from the list of nominees provided by the governors to fill obligatory and at-large seats that have become available due to an expiring term, a resignation, or other reasons. Obligatory seats are state-specific, while at-large seats can be filled by a person from any of the states in the region. Council members serve three-year terms and may be reappointed to serve up to three consecutive terms.
Gulf Council Appointments - the Gulf Council includes members from the states of Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas. The appointees for 2011 fill three at-large seats.
Pamela J. Dana (Florida)
Patrick F. Riley (Texas)
Robert L. Shipp (Alabama - reappointment)
Council members will be sworn in during the August Council meeting in Austin, Texas.
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