Summer is here already! There are many moving pieces to keep track of these days which have an impact on local access/regulations and the future of our local fisheries. Read below for more information and links on the upcoming PFMC meeting, Dungeness Crab regulatory changes proposed by CDFW, potential closures of fixed gear to allow for deep sea coral research areas in the Monterey National Marine Sanctuary, an update on Salmon Fishery Disaster Relief, and more.

2024 Revisions for the

Commercial Dungeness Crab Fishery

The CDFW has proposed a set of revisions for the Risk Assessment Mitigation Program (RAMP) and held a hearing on May 21st to receive public comment. The proposed RAMP amendments are:  

• Adjust definition of Confirmed Entanglement through removal of Impact Score, and how it is calculated,

• Clarify management areas under RAMP, 

• Adjust decision making considerations and timing for Management Actions,

• Clarify reporting requirements and requirements for electronic monitoring,

• Provide specifications for Dungeness crab fishing gear identification, and

• Clarify types of limitations or conditions in authorizing Alternative Gear

The Pacific Coast Federation of Fishermen's Associations (PCFFA) submitted a detailed letter. Click below to read their comments and follow the Whalesafe Fisheries page for more details. Nov 1 is anticipated effective date

MBNMS Coral Restoration &

Research proposal - Final Action in June

Starting last summer, the Office of National Marine Sanctuaries (ONMS) initiated a request to the PFMC to establish locations that are suitable for deep-sea coral (DSC) research and restoration. The proposal went from 10 areas to 3 areas that are being analyzed as final alternatives. The Council will make a final decision at the June meeting whether to approve 0, 2, or 3 Groundfish Exclusion Areas (GEA) that would disallow any bottom contact gear. These areas are at Año Nuevo Canyon, Ascension Canyon, and Sur Ridge. This will affect any fixed gear fishermen targeting sablefish or other deep water groundfish in these areas.

The June meeting is your final chance (for now) to voice how these proposed closures may impact your operation. You can submit written comment on the PFMC website by 5pm on June 3rd, and you can sign up to comment orally during the agenda item scheduled for June 9th.

Here is the Regulatory Analysis (June 2024), and click below for more information or reach out to us with questions (info@mbfishtrust.org)

Salmon Disaster Relief Update

The 2023 Salmon Disaster Spend Plan has been finalized. Monies are expected to begin being disbursed later this summer. For more information visit the CDFW Disaster Info page HERE, and view the Final Spend Plan linked below.

Join us for a Special Screening!

June 5th at 5:30pm join us at the Seymour Marine Discovery Center in Santa Cruz for the screening of a very special film highlighting the journey of local fisherwoman, Liza Star. There will be a discussion following the film including a panel of fishermen and researcher opinions of ocean access and preservation, while also celebrating our historical fisheries and pristine sustainable food source.

Upcoming Management Meetings

Meetings Archive

Missed a management meeting? It's ok, they get recorded! Not only that, but you can go back and watch meetings from months...to years old.

California Fish and Game Commission

Pacific Fisheries Management Council

For more information about our programs and to access resources relevant to the fishing industry, visit the Fisherman's Portal on our website.