Fishery Council Meets to Chat Clams and Habitat Rules
Published Date: 5/8/2026
Notice
Summary
The New England Fishery Management Council is holding a public meeting on May 29, 2026, to discuss important habitat rules that affect local fish and fishing businesses. They’ll review research areas, consider changes to habitat protections, and look at rules for clam dredging. These decisions could impact fishing spots and help keep fish populations healthy, supporting both the environment and the economy.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 0 costs, 3 mixed.
Stellwagen & Georges Bank DHRA Review
On May 29, 2026, the Habitat Advisory Panel will consider whether to request administrative removal of either the Stellwagen DHRA or the Georges Bank DHRA in the New England exclusive economic zone (EEZ). If the Panel recommends removal, the Council may take formal action later based on that recommendation.
Clam Dredge Exemption Program Review
On May 29, 2026, the Advisory Panel will discuss the scope and structure for a review of the clam dredge exemption program within the Great South Channel Habitat Management Area and may suggest refinements to the approach. The review could lead to changes in how clam dredging is allowed in that area.
Essential Fish Habitat Designation Review
The Panel will review draft essential fish habitat designations for groundfish, small mesh, and Atlantic sea scallops and comment on maps, habitat use descriptions, and additional information sources. The species list for review includes Acadian redfish, American plaice, Atlantic halibut, Atlantic sea scallop, Atlantic wolffish, haddock, ocean pout, offshore hake, pollock, red hake, silver hake, white hake, windowpane flounder, winter flounder, witch flounder, and yellowtail flounder, and at least 12 of the 16 species in the 2026 framework will be available for review at this meeting.
Your PRIA Score
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Sign up for a PRIA Policy Scan to see your personalized alignment score for this federal register document and every other regulation we track. We analyze your financial profile against policy provisions to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-05599 — Deep Seabed Mining: Notice of Receipt of Applications for Deep Seabed Mining Exploration Licenses and Announcement of Public Comment Period and Virtual Public Hearings
NOAA got two applications from companies wanting to explore mining deep under the ocean floor. They’re holding virtual public meetings in April and want your thoughts by May 22, 2026. This affects anyone interested in ocean mining and how we protect our seas while exploring new resources.
2026-04256 — Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Spatial Fisheries Management; Amendment 15 to the 2006 Consolidated Atlantic Highly Migratory Species Fishery Management Plan
Starting April 3, 2026, new rules change shark fishing zones and times in the Atlantic to better protect sharks and manage fishing risks. Fishermen using bottom and pelagic longline gear will see updated area boundaries and must pay for electronic monitoring if fishing in certain safer zones. These changes help keep shark populations healthy while supporting responsible fishing.
2026-13808 — Fisheries of the Caribbean, Gulf of America, and South Atlantic; Puerto Rico Fishery Management Plan; Amendment 4
The new rule changes how rainbow runner fish are managed in Puerto Rico’s waters by moving them from reef fish to pelagic fish status. This means new catch limits and rules will apply to keep fishing fair and sustainable. Fishermen and seafood businesses should get ready to follow these updates starting after the comment period ends on August 7, 2026.
2026-13809 — Fisheries of the Northeastern United States; Omnibus Management Flexibility Amendment to New England Fishery Management Council Fishery Management Plans
The New England Fishery Management Council wants to make fishing rules more flexible and easier to adjust during the season. This change affects fishermen and managers working with 27 fish species along the Northeast coast. Comments are open until August 7, 2026, so get ready to weigh in on how these updates could help keep fishing smart and steady without extra costs.
2026-13682 — Reef Fish Fishery of the Gulf of America; Amendment 62
Fishermen and fish lovers in the Gulf of America, listen up! Amendment 62 changes how much red grouper can be caught and who gets to catch it, based on the latest science. Plus, the usual February-March fishing break for shallow-water grouper is gone, so you can fish year-round. Comments on these changes are open until August 6, 2026, so don’t miss your chance to weigh in!
2026-13684 — Pribilof Islands Administration; Dogs Prohibited
Starting August 6, 2026, specially trained rodent detection dogs will be allowed on the Pribilof Islands to help stop invasive rodents from harming local wildlife and communities. This change affects anyone bringing vessels or cargo to the islands, supporting efforts to protect native animals and food security. Public comments are open until the same date, with no new costs expected.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-09209 — Pacific Fishery Management Council; Public Meeting
The Pacific Fishery Management Council is hosting a free online meeting on June 8, 2026, to talk about how to protect ocean ecosystems and manage fishing better. This meeting affects fishermen, environmental groups, and anyone who cares about ocean health. It’s a chance to shape fishing rules before the big council meeting later in June, with no costs to join but plenty of important decisions on the horizon.
Next: 2026-09211 — Information Collection Being Reviewed by the Federal Communications Commission
The FCC is checking in on its paperwork rules for businesses to make sure they’re useful and not too much work. They want your thoughts on how to keep things clear, cut down on hassle, and help small businesses with fewer than 25 employees. If you have ideas, send them in by July 7, 2026—this could save time and keep the system running smoothly!