October 12, 2017

Dr. Ellen Pikitch submits comments on behalf of over 100 scientists to protect Atlantic Menhaden

The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission is currently evaluating whether to include ecosystem considerations in the management of Atlantic Menhaden along the eastern seaboard. The ASMFC is currently accepting public comment, and held coastwide hearings earlier this fall. SoMAS faculty, staff, and students attended a September hearing at the NYDEC in East Setauket. Since then, Dr. Ellen Pikitch led an effort to compile the signatures of over one hundred scientists on a letter to the ASMFC, encouraging the Commission to abandon the single-species status quo and choose one of three options that take into account menhaden's role as prey. The scientists hail from 24 states and four countries, and the letter was sent to the ASMFC commissioners on October 12th. The Commission will make its decision in November.

If you would like to learn more, or submit comments, please see the following links:

Bay Journal : Big decision looms over little oily fish that feeds so many others

Pew Charitable Trusts: Marine Biologist Explains Why Menhaden Managers Should Keep Ecosystem in Mind