May 2019
Stories in this newsletter
Coastal Recreational Fishing License Funds
From the director's desk
“Where does my license money go?” That is a question I get from many recreational saltwater anglers. In this edition of the Insight, we highlight some of the important work being done with proceeds from the Coastal Recreational Fishing License or CRFL. From education, enhancement of fisheries habitat, to access projects and research, CRFL funds have become critically important to our work at the Division of Marine Fisheries.

Plan outlines funding goals
To guide expenditures funded by the N.C. Marine Resources Fund and N.C. Marine Resources Endowment Fund, the Division of Marine Fisheries developed a strategic plan to ensure the funds are used consistently as outlined in state law. Goal 1 of the plan focuses on Marine Resources and Habitat Management; Goal 2 is directed at Access and Education.

License sales fund research; tagging study nears completion
The N.C. Division of Marine Fisheries conducts research and monitoring projects using Coastal Recreational Fishing License funds. These projects align with strategically planned management goals, and enhance the Division’s efforts to manage, protect, restore, develop, cultivate, conserve and enhance North Carolina’s marine resources. Data obtained from these projects supports management plans and policy decisions.

Academia, NGOs benefit
Annually, the Division of Marine Fisheries Director’s office consults with staff to determine research needs that will assist efforts to manage the marine resources of North Carolina. Subsequent to this determination, and in accordance with the North Carolina Marine Resources Fund and Marine Resources Endowment Fund Strategic Plan to Manage, Protect, Restore, Develop, Cultivate, Conserve, and Enhance North Carolina’s Marine Resources, the division will issue a request for proposals with specific priority needs.

Education a high priority
Angler education and outreach has remained a high funding priority for Coastal Recreational Fishing License grants since the program’s inception in 2007. Proceeds from license sales has awarded more than $700,000 to education and outreach projects.

Funds supports artificial reefs
Artificial reefs are manmade underwater structures, built to promote marine life in areas with otherwise featureless bottom. North Carolina builds reefs to support healthy fish populations, create accessible fishing and diving opportunities, and in some places, restore degraded habitat for oysters .

Grants finance public access
The N.C. Division of Marine Fisheries’ Coastal Recreational Fishing License grant program works with government agencies, such as local municipalities or the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission to provide funding for public boating area access points.