Rock Shrimp Rules Up for Debate at Ocean Protection Meet
Published Date: 1/2/2026
Notice
Summary
The South Atlantic Fishery Management Council is meeting on January 23, 2026, to talk about new rules for rock shrimp fishing near the Oculina Bank, a special protected area. Fishermen, conservationists, and the public can join the online meeting or send comments from January 16 to 23. These changes could affect where and how shrimp fishing happens, helping protect important ocean habitats while balancing fishing interests.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Possible Rock Shrimp Access Rule Changes
The South Atlantic Fishery Management Council will consider Coral Amendment 11/Shrimp Amendment 12 that addresses a rock shrimp fishery access area in the Oculina Bank Habitat Area of Particular Concern. The Council may approve the amendment for submission to the Secretary of Commerce for review and final approval, which could change where and how rock shrimp fishing is allowed.
Public Webinar and Comment Window
The Council will hold a webinar meeting from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on January 23, 2026 (registration required). You can submit written public comments through the Council's online form from January 16, 2026 until January 23, 2026, and meeting materials will be posted on the Council website one week before the meeting.
Disability Access for Meeting Materials
The meetings are physically accessible to people with disabilities and requests for auxiliary aids must be directed to the council office at least 5 days before the meeting. This ensures people with disabilities can request accommodations for the January 23, 2026 webinar/meeting.
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