FR 2021-00718

The document outlines a notice from the New England Fishery Management Council about a public meeting to be held by its Skate Committee. This meeting, scheduled for March 25, 2021, is set to occur via a webinar and focuses on discussing matters related to the fisheries in the exclusive economic zone, especially concerning the Northeast Skate Complex Fishery Management.

Summary

The intent of this meeting is for the Skate Committee to deliberate on several key topics. These include reviewing public comments received during the scoping process and examining background work by the Plan Development Team. A significant focus will be on developing alternatives for Amendment 5 of the Northeast Skate Complex Fishery Management, alongside discussing the progress of the Skate 2022-23 Specifications.

Significant Issues or Concerns

One notable concern is the lack of specificity regarding the specific actions to be considered during the meeting. This vagueness can hinder stakeholders, including fishing communities, environmental groups, and the public, from adequately preparing for the meeting or providing informed comments.

Additionally, there is an absence of detailed financial implications or expenditures related to the meeting's agenda and potential outcomes. This omission could be perceived as a lack of transparency, potentially raising concerns among those affected by the decisions, such as local fishermen or related industries that depend on the fisheries.

Moreover, the document uses several acronyms, like EEZ (Exclusive Economic Zone) and PDT (Plan Development Team), without offering initial explanations. This could pose challenges for those unfamiliar with the fisheries management terminology.

Impact on the Public and Stakeholders

Broadly, the public meeting can be seen as a positive endeavor to involve various stakeholders in the decision-making processes that affect the New England fisheries. It provides an opportunity for public engagement and transparency.

For specific stakeholders, such as commercial fishermen, conservation groups, and local businesses, the outcomes of this meeting could potentially have significant effects. Positive outcomes could include the implementation of management practices that support the sustainability of fish stocks, benefiting both the environment and the fishing industry long-term. Conversely, if the inputs from stakeholders aren't adequately addressed, it might lead to regulations or amendments that could adversely impact the stakeholders economically or ecologically.

Overall, while the meeting aims for inclusive discourse and management of the fisheries, the document could be improved by offering clearer details and more systematic definitions to better equip all participants in understanding and engaging with the process.