Government Scientists Hold Emergency Meeting About Widow Rockfish Crisis
Published Date: 12/15/2025
Notice
Summary
The Pacific Fishery Management Council is holding several virtual and in-person meetings early in 2026 to review fish stock health, improve assessment methods, and plan next year’s fishing calendar. These meetings affect fishermen, scientists, and coastal communities by shaping fishing rules and sustainability efforts. Mark your calendar for January and February to stay in the loop on decisions that could impact fish limits and local economies.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 0 costs, 3 mixed.
GMT Work Session on Harvest Specs
The Groundfish Management Team will meet in person and by web broadcast in Portland, Oregon on February 2–6, 2026 to prepare the 2026 Year‑at‑a‑Glance calendar and consider items including 2027–28 harvest specifications, management measure prioritization, and the 2026 Pacific whiting fishery. The meeting provides remote public comment options.
Widow Rockfish Assessment Review
The Scientific and Statistical Committee will hold a virtual supplemental review of the 2025 widow rockfish stock assessment on January 20 and January 22, 2026. The SSC will prepare recommendations for the Pacific Council to consider at its March 2026 meeting; the SSC will not decide any management actions during this meeting.
Groundfish Assessment Process Review
The SSC Groundfish Subcommittee will hold virtual meetings January 21 and January 23, 2026 to evaluate the 2025 groundfish stock assessment review process and discuss changes to Terms of Reference and Accepted Practices Guidelines for the 2027–2028 assessment cycle. No management actions will be decided at this process-review meeting.
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