VMRC seeks public comments on proposed changes to striped bass, blue crab fishery, and crab dredging regulations
The Virginia Marine Resources Commission (VMRC) has opened a 14 day public comment period starting June 12 and ending June 26 on striped bass, the blue crab fishery, and crab dredging. Comments are accepted online, via email, and in person at the June 27 public hearing.
Per the June 27 meeting notice,
In accordance with Section 28.2-209 of the Code of Virginia, a public hearing on the proposed amendments to these regulations will be held on Tuesday, June 27, 2023, at the Virginia Marine Resources Commission, 380 Fenwick Road, Bldg. 96, Fort Monroe, Virginia.
Written public comments on the Fisheries Management Division proposals or on fisheries items not on the agenda must be provided by 12:00 p.m., Monday, June 26, 2023, to Patrick Geer, VMRC Fisheries Management Division, 380 Fenwick Road, Bldg. 96, Fort Monroe, Virginia 23651, or sent by email to fisheries@mrc.virginia.gov with the subject heading “Commission Comments”.
The Commission may review Fisheries Management Division items as early as 9:30 a.m.
Details and links
I. Chapter 4 VAC 20-252-10 et seq., “Pertaining to the Taking of Striped Bass” (PDF)
The Commission proposes to amend Chapter 4 VAC 20-252-10 et seq., “Pertaining to the Taking of Striped Bass”, to implement a 31-inch maximum size limit for striped bass recreational fisheries.
The purpose of these amendments is to comply with the emergency action implemented by the ASMFC for this species.
II. Chapter 4 VAC 20-270-10 et seq., “Pertaining to Blue Crab Fishery” (PDF)
The Commission proposes to amend Chapter 4 VAC 20-270-10 et seq., “Pertaining to Blue Crab Fishery,” to establish management measures, including season and bushel limits, for the 2023-2024 commercial crab fisheries.
The purpose of these amendments is to conserve the blue crab resource.
III. Chapter 4 VAC 20-1140-10 et seq., “Prohibition of Crab Dredging in Virginia Waters” (PDF)
The Commission proposes to amend Chapter 4 VAC 20-1140-10 et seq., “Prohibition of Crab Dredging in Virginia Waters” to close the December 1, 2023 through March 31, 2024 winter commercial crab dredge fishing season, in accordance with the provisions of Section 28.2-707 of the Code of Virginia.
The purpose of this closure is to conserve spawning potential of the blue crab population.