NOAA Recruits Advisers for Sharks, Swordfish, Tuna and Billfish
Published Date: 11/6/2026
Notice
Summary
NOAA is looking for new members to join the Atlantic Highly Migratory Species Advisory Panel, which helps manage fishing rules for swordfish, sharks, tunas, and billfish. They want people involved in fishing, environmental groups, or related industries to apply by December 7, 2026. This is a great chance to shape fishing policies for the next three years without any cost to applicants.
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
Volunteer advisory seats open — apply by Dec 7
NOAA is seeking nominations to fill about 10 seats (roughly one third) on the Atlantic Highly Migratory Species Advisory Panel for 3-year appointments. Nominees must apply by December 7, 2026, for terms beginning January 2027 and expiring December 2029.
No pay; travel reimbursement possible
Advisory Panel members will not receive monetary compensation for serving. Depending on availability of funds, members may be reimbursed for travel costs related to HMS AP meetings.
Term limits: 3 terms then 1-year break
Members are appointed for 3-year terms and may serve up to three consecutive terms (a total of 9 consecutive years). After three consecutive terms, a member must sit off the HMS AP for one year before being eligible again.
Vacancies targeted by sector and region
NMFS seeks to fill five commercial, three recreational, one academic, and one environmental sector vacancies for terms starting in 2027, and will consider geographic and species expertise to maintain balance. Current representation by sector and region is described and NMFS will aim to keep a balanced mix.
Meeting cadence — at least twice yearly
The HMS Advisory Panel will meet as often as necessary and at minimum twice each year (recently once in spring and once in fall). Meetings may be held with public hearings and could require travel.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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