Apr
1
1:00 PM13:00

Summer Flounder, Scup, Black Sea Bass, and Bluefish Recreational Measures Setting Process Framework/Addenda FMAT/PDT Meeting

The Summer Flounder, Scup, Black Sea Bass, and Bluefish Recreational Measures Setting Process Framework/Addenda Fishery Management Action Team (FMAT) / Plan Development Team (PDT) will hold a meeting via webinar on Monday April 1, 2024 from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm.

The FMAT/PDT will discuss several aspects of the Recreational Measures Setting Process Framework/Addenda.

Webinar Connection

Meeting Materials

  • Meeting materials will be posted as available

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Apr
2
2:00 PM14:00

Public Webinar: Summer Flounder Minimum Mesh Exemptions Framework/Addendum

  • Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council is seeking public input on potential modifications to the Summer Flounder Small Mesh Exemption Program and the flynet exemption from the summer flounder minimum mesh size requirements. Interested stakeholders are invited to provide comments during a webinar to be held on April 2, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. The Council is particularly interested in input from participants in commercial trawl fisheries who utilize the Small Mesh Exemption Program and/or flynet exemption.

The Council is considering these changes through a joint framework action/addendum being developed jointly with the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission’s Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Board (Board). The Council and Board are seeking comments to inform their consideration of a draft range of alternatives at their April 2024 joint meeting.

Which Regulations are Being Considered Through this Action?

  • Small Mesh Exemption Program Area Revisions: The Small Mesh Exemption Program  currently allows trawl vessels to obtain a Letter of Authorization (LOA) to land more than 200 pounds of summer flounder east of longitude 72° 30.0'W, from November 1 through April 30, using mesh smaller than 5.5-inch diamond or 6.0-inch square. The Council and Board will consider modifications to the boundaries of the exempted area, including evaluating suggested revisions made by fishing industry representatives during the Fall 2023 review process for this exemption.

  • Flynet Exemption Gear Definition Updates: Current regulations provide an exemption to the minimum mesh size requirements for vessels fishing with a two-seam otter trawl flynet. Through this action, the Council and Board will consider modifying the regulatory definition of a flynet in light of changes in the use and configuration of commercial trawl gear since this exemption was put in place in the 1990s.

An overview of draft alternatives will be posted on this page prior to the meeting.  Additional background and context for the action is available on the action webpage  Summer Flounder Commercial Mesh Size Exemptions Framework/Addendum.

Webinar Connection:

Registration in advance of the webinar is requested but not required.

To Provide Written Comments or For More Information

Written comments can be emailed to Kiley Dancy at kdancy@mafmc.org, and will be included in the Council and Board’s April meeting materials if received by 5p.m. on Thursday, April 4, 2024. Please contact Kiley for more information, or visit the Summer Flounder Commercial Mesh Size Exemptions Framework/Addendum action page.

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Apr
4
9:00 AM09:00

Assessment Oversight Panel Meeting for Golden Tilefish Management Track Stock Assessment

The Assessment Oversight Panel (AOP) will meet on April 4, 2024 to review the stock assessment plan for the golden tilefish management track assessment and recommend the appropriate level of peer review. Please note that the AOP meeting for other June 2024 management track assessment stocks will be held on February 28.

An agenda and other details will be posted at the link below prior to the meeting. This meeting is open to the public.

*** Please note that stock assessment meetings are hosted by the Northeast Fisheries Science Center. Webinar connection information for these meetings is only available on the meeting page (linked above) and will not be posted on the Council calendar. ***

Background Information

Management track assessments provide updated catch advice on a regular schedule. The schedule varies by species.  These assessments begin with a previously approved assessment model and a plan to carry forward an updated assessment with possible changes to the data or parameters in the model.

The AOP is responsible for reviewing and approving management track assessment plans and recommending the appropriate level of peer review for each management track assessment. The AOP is composed of four members: a member of the Mid-Atlantic Council’s Scientific and Statistical Committee (SSC), a member of the New England Council’s SSC, a member of the ASMFC Assessment Science Committee, and the NEFSC Chief of the Populations Dynamics Branch.

During this meeting, the lead assessment scientist for each species will present the assessment plans to the AOP. The AOP will then recommend the level of peer review appropriate for each assessment. There are three levels of management track peer review:

  • Level 1: direct delivery (i.e., no peer review) of simple data and model updates;

  • Level 2: expedited peer review of updates with some changes to the model or data streams; or

  • Level 3: enhanced peer review of updates with extensive changes. 

After the AOP meets and makes its recommendations, the assessment leads will then carry out the management track assessment within the scope of the approved plan for each stock.

A peer review meeting will be held at the end of the process to review the Level 2 and 3 assessments.

Additional information about stock assessments is available on the Council’s Stock Assessments page and on the NOAA Fisheries website.

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Apr
12
1:00 PM13:00

Longfin Inshore Squid Research Track Working Group Meeting

This is one in a series of working group meetings associated with the Longfin Inshore Squid Research Track Assessment. Please visit the Longfin Inshore Squid Research Track Working Group page on the NOAA Fisheries website for an agenda and webinar connection details (scroll down to the “Schedule” section). This meeting is open to the public.

Background Information

Research track assessments evaluate new datasets that can either inform or be used in new or existing stock assessment models. Unlike management track assessments, which are driven by the need to meet specific management timelines, research track assessments are carried out over longer time frames and with fewer requirements for using the most recent data. The research track is intended to be the opportunity for extensive and comprehensive research and analysis.

Working groups carry out the analytical work required for the stock assessment, including developing and implementing the research plan and terms of reference, conducting the necessary research, compiling the results to inform the research track effort, and incorporating other information and public input as appropriate.

What Happens Next?

After the working group has completed its work, a peer review panel will be convened to conduct a comprehensive review of the research track assessment.

Typically, research track outputs are incorporated into future management track assessments (as opposed to directly informing management decisions). For this reason, research track assessments are often scheduled to have management track assessments in the following year, which ensures immediate application of the research results with the inclusion of the most recent data in a management track assessment.

Quick Links

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Apr
19
9:00 AM09:00

Mackerel, Squid, Butterfish (MSB) Advisory Panel Meeting

The Council’s Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish (MSB) Advisory Panel (AP) will meet via webinar on Friday, April 19, 2024 from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

The MSB AP will develop Fishery Performance Reports for MSB species. The Fishery Performance Reports are considered by the Scientific and Statistical Committee when setting Acceptable Biological Catches (ABC’s).

Webinar Connection

  • Webinar information will be shared prior to the meeting.

Meeting Materials

  • Meeting materials will be posted as available.

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May
10
1:00 PM13:00

Longfin Inshore Squid Research Track Working Group Meeting

This is one in a series of working group meetings associated with the Longfin Inshore Squid Research Track Assessment. Please visit the Longfin Inshore Squid Research Track Working Group page on the NOAA Fisheries website for an agenda and webinar connection details (scroll down to the “Schedule” section). This meeting is open to the public.

Background Information

Research track assessments evaluate new datasets that can either inform or be used in new or existing stock assessment models. Unlike management track assessments, which are driven by the need to meet specific management timelines, research track assessments are carried out over longer time frames and with fewer requirements for using the most recent data. The research track is intended to be the opportunity for extensive and comprehensive research and analysis.

Working groups carry out the analytical work required for the stock assessment, including developing and implementing the research plan and terms of reference, conducting the necessary research, compiling the results to inform the research track effort, and incorporating other information and public input as appropriate.

What Happens Next?

After the working group has completed its work, a peer review panel will be convened to conduct a comprehensive review of the research track assessment.

Typically, research track outputs are incorporated into future management track assessments (as opposed to directly informing management decisions). For this reason, research track assessments are often scheduled to have management track assessments in the following year, which ensures immediate application of the research results with the inclusion of the most recent data in a management track assessment.

Quick Links

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May
14
to May 15
SSC

May 2024 SSC Meeting

The Council’s Scientific and Statistical Committee (SSC) will meet May 14-15, 2024. The meeting location is TBD - check this page for updates. Please note that the start/end times listed above and the anticipated topics listed below are subject to change until a final agenda has been posted.

Staff Contact: Brandon Muffley, bmuffley@mafmc.org, (302) 526-5260

Anticipated Topics:

  • 2025 ABC reviews: Chub Mackerel, Blueline Tilefish, Longfin Squid, Illex Squid

  • Introductory overview of research track assessment results: Black Sea Bass and Golden Tilefish

  • Overview of 2023 fishery-independent long-line surveys for Golden and Blueline Tilefish

  • Recreational Measures Setting Framework/Addenda (if needed)

  • OFL CV sub-group – review proposed guidance document updates (if needed)

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Jul
23
to Jul 25
SSC

July 2024 SSC Meeting

The Council’s Scientific and Statistical Committee (SSC) will meet May 14-15, 2024. The meeting location is TBD - check this page for updates. Please note that the start/end times listed above and the anticipated topics listed below are subject to change until a final agenda has been posted.

Staff Contact: Brandon Muffley, bmuffley@mafmc.org, (302) 526-5260

Anticipated Topics:

  • Management track assessment results and OFL/ABC recommendations for: Surfclam, Butterfish, Black Sea Bass, Golden Tilefish

  • 2025 ABC reviews: Summer Flounder, Scup, Bluefish, Ocean Quahog

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Sep
11
to Sep 12
SSC

September 2024 SSC Meeting

The Council’s Scientific and Statistical Committee (SSC) will meet May 14-15, 2024. The meeting location is TBD - check this page for updates. Please note that the start/end times listed above and the anticipated topics listed below are subject to change until a final agenda has been posted.

Staff Contact: Brandon Muffley, bmuffley@mafmc.org, (302) 526-5260

Anticipated Topics:

  • Offshore wind discussion

  • Review of 2025-2029 research priorities document

  • Scientific Coordination Sub-Committee workshop (SCS8): initial overview of meeting outcomes (possible joint discussion with NEFMC SSC)

  • Overview of NEFSC Cooperative Research Branch Research/Outreach Initiatives

  • 2025 ABC reviews: Atlantic Mackerel, Spiny Dogfish

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Mar
13
9:00 AM09:00

Joint Spiny Dogfish and Monkfish Committee Meeting

The Spiny Dogfish and Monkfish Committees will meet jointly via webinar on Wednesday, March 13, 2024 - at 9am.

The Spiny Dogfish and Monkfish Committees will meet to develop recommendations on potential measures to reduce Atlantic sturgeon bycatch.

Meeting materials and connection information will be available at:

https://www.nefmc.org/calendar/mar-13-2023-joint-monkfish-and-dogfish-committee-webinar

Additional information can be found on the Atlantic sturgeon current issues page: https://www.mafmc.org/actions/sturgeon-bycatch-framework 

MAFMC Contact: Karson Cisneros, KCisneros@mafmc.org, 302-526- 5259

NEFMC Contacts: Jenny Couture, jcouture@nefmc.org, (978) 465-0492 (ext. 111) or Robin Frede, rfrede@nefmc.org, (978) 465-0492 (ext. 124)

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Mar
11
1:00 PM13:00

Summer Flounder Commercial Mesh Exemption Framework/Addendum FMAT/PDT Meeting

The Summer Flounder Commercial Mesh Exemption Framework/Addendum Fishery Management Action Team (FMAT) / Plan Development Team (PDT) will hold a meeting via webinar on Monday, March 11, 2024 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

The FMAT/PDT will meet to review and discuss several aspects of the Summer Flounder Mesh Exemption Framework/Addenda including, updates to the framework/addenda timeline and analysis needs in preparation for the April 2024 Council meeting.

Webinar Connection

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Mar
11
to Mar 14

Golden Tilefish: 2024 Research Track Peer Review

A peer review panel will meet March 11-14, 2024 to review the research track stock assessment for golden tilefish. An agenda and other details will be posted on the meeting page linked below. This meeting is open to the public.

**** Please note that stock assessment meetings are hosted by the Northeast Fisheries Science Center. Webinar connection information for these meetings is only available on the meeting page (linked above) and will not be posted on the Council calendar. ***

Background Information

Research track assessments evaluate new datasets that can either inform or be used in new or existing stock assessment models. Unlike management track assessments, which are driven by the need to meet specific management timelines, research track assessments are carried out over longer time frames and with fewer requirements for using the most recent data. The research track is intended to be the opportunity for extensive and comprehensive research and analysis.

After the working group has completed its work, a peer review panel will be convened to conduct a comprehensive review of the research track assessment. The peer review panels review the assessment(s) for technical merit and provide recommendations on whether the assessment should or should not be used for management.

What Happens Next?

Typically, research track outputs are incorporated into future management track assessments (as opposed to directly informing management decisions). For this reason, research track assessments are often scheduled to have management track assessments in the following year, which ensures immediate application of the research results with the inclusion of the most recent data in a management track assessment.

Quick Links

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Mar
8
1:00 PM13:00

Essential Fish Habitat Amendment - Fishery Management Action Team (FMAT) Meeting

The Council’s Essential Fish Habitat (EFH) Amendment Fishery Management Action Team (FMAT) will meet on Friday, March 8, 2024 from 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. via webinar.

The purpose of this meeting will be to continue work on the components of an EFH review and development of an EFH amendment. Connection details for the webinar may be obtained by contacting Council staff prior to the meeting.

Contacts:

Jessica Coakley - jcoakley@mafmc.org; 302-526-5252

Tori Kentner - tkentner@mafmc.org; 302-526-5262

Meeting Materials:

  • Meeting materials will be posted when available.

About FMAT Meetings

Fishery Management Action Team (FMAT) meetings are working meetings of the Council, NOAA Fisheries, and Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission staff. Information on FMAT meeting locations for in-person meetings may be obtained by contacting Council staff prior to the meeting. This information is not posted to the Council’s website. The date and time of FMAT meetings are generally posted to the calendar on the Council’s website, sometimes with very little notice. FMAT members may discuss topics listed on the agenda in any order and may also discuss topics not listed. Members of the public may attend FMAT meetings, or listen to the meetings if they are broadcast, but should not expect to participate in the discussion unless the FMAT chair invites public input during a specified public comment period to be noted at the beginning of the meeting. Work carried out by the FMAT is considered during committee and/or Council meetings, during which public comments are encouraged.

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Mar
5
1:00 PM13:00

Joint Spiny Dogfish and Monkfish Advisory Panel Meeting

The Spiny Dogfish and Monkfish Advisory Panels will meet jointly via webinar on Tuesday, March 5, 2024 from 1 p.m. - 5 p.m..

The Advisory Panels will meet jointly to provide input on potential measures to reduce Atlantic sturgeon bycatch.

MAFMC Contact: Jason Didden - jdidden@mafmc.org; 302-526-5254

NEFMC Contacts: Jenny Couture jcouture@nefmc.org (978) 465-0492 (ext. 111) or Robin Frede – rfrede@nefmc.org; (978) 465-0492 (ext. 124)

Webinar Connection

  • Click here to join the webinar

    Meeting number (access code): 2349 782 0807  Password if needed: NZaAH9kKc37

  • Join by phone +1-415-655-0001 US Toll - Tap to join from a mobile device:

    +1-415-655-0001,,23497820807## US Toll

     

Meeting Materials

1.     Meeting overview memo from NEFMC and MAFMC staff

2.     Agenda

3.     Presentation, Council Staff

4.     Draft Framework Adjustment, February 27, 2024

5.     Sturgeon Bycatch FMAT/PDT DRAFT meeting summary, February 22, 2024 (with recommendations)

Supplemental Memo on Delmarva exemptions from prohibition on overnight soaks (pending)

6.     Sturgeon Risk Assessment (Closures) Final Report, February 20, 2024

7.     BREP Proposal Narrative low-profile gear

8.     Correspondence (if any, will be posted here)

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Mar
4
2:00 PM14:00

Longfin Inshore Squid Research Track Working Group Meeting

This is one in a series of working group meetings associated with the Longfin Inshore Squid Research Track Assessment. Please visit the Longfin Inshore Squid Research Track Working Group page on the NOAA Fisheries website for an agenda and webinar connection details (scroll down to the “Schedule” section). This meeting is open to the public.

Background Information

Research track assessments evaluate new datasets that can either inform or be used in new or existing stock assessment models. Unlike management track assessments, which are driven by the need to meet specific management timelines, research track assessments are carried out over longer time frames and with fewer requirements for using the most recent data. The research track is intended to be the opportunity for extensive and comprehensive research and analysis.

Working groups carry out the analytical work required for the stock assessment, including developing and implementing the research plan and terms of reference, conducting the necessary research, compiling the results to inform the research track effort, and incorporating other information and public input as appropriate.

What Happens Next?

After the working group has completed its work, a peer review panel will be convened to conduct a comprehensive review of the research track assessment.

Typically, research track outputs are incorporated into future management track assessments (as opposed to directly informing management decisions). For this reason, research track assessments are often scheduled to have management track assessments in the following year, which ensures immediate application of the research results with the inclusion of the most recent data in a management track assessment.

Quick Links

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Feb
29
9:00 AM09:00

Northeast Trawl Advisory Panel (NTAP) Bigelow Contingency Plan Working Group Meeting

Meeting Summary

The Northeast Trawl Advisory Panel Bigelow Contingency Plan Working Group will hold a meeting via webinar on Thursday, February 29 from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. During this meeting the working group will continue their discussions on the Industry-Based Survey pilot project as well as other Bigelow contingency options.

Webinar Connection

  • Click here to join the webinar (If prompted, enter Meeting Number: 2330 975 5909; Password: pbSJQt6AM87)

  • Phone-Only Access: 1-415-655-0001 (U.S. Toll Free); Access code: 2330 975 5909. Please only use this option if you are not connecting to the webinar on your computer or device. Otherwise follow the audio connection prompts to call in when you join the webinar.

Meeting Materials

  • Meeting Material will be posted when available.

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Feb
28
9:00 AM09:00

Assessment Oversight Panel Meeting for Atlantic Surfclam, Black Sea Bass, and Butterfish Management Track Assessments

The Assessment Oversight Panel (AOP) will meet on February 28, 2024 to review the stock assessment plans for June management track assessment stocks and recommend the level of peer review necessary for each assessment. MAFMC-managed stocks to be addressed at this meeting include Atlantic Surfclam, Black Sea Bass, and Butterfish. Please note that the AOP meeting for the golden tilefish management track assessment will be held on April 4.

An agenda and other details will be posted at the link below prior to the meeting. This meeting is open to the public.

*** Please note that stock assessment meetings are hosted by the Northeast Fisheries Science Center. Webinar connection information for these meetings is only available on the meeting page (linked above) and will not be posted on the Council calendar. ***

Background Information

Management track assessments provide updated catch advice on a regular schedule. The schedule varies by species.  These assessments begin with a previously approved assessment model and a plan to carry forward an updated assessment with possible changes to the data or parameters in the model.

The AOP is responsible for reviewing and approving management track assessment plans and recommending the appropriate level of peer review for each management track assessment. The AOP is composed of four members: a member of the Mid-Atlantic Council’s Scientific and Statistical Committee (SSC), a member of the New England Council’s SSC, a member of the ASMFC Assessment Science Committee, and the NEFSC Chief of the Populations Dynamics Branch.

During this meeting, the lead assessment scientist for each species will present the assessment plans to the AOP. The AOP will then recommend the level of peer review appropriate for each assessment. There are three levels of management track peer review:

  • Level 1: direct delivery (i.e., no peer review) of simple data and model updates;

  • Level 2: expedited peer review of updates with some changes to the model or data streams; or

  • Level 3: enhanced peer review of updates with extensive changes. 

After the AOP meets and makes its recommendations, the assessment leads will then carry out the management track assessment within the scope of the approved plan for each stock.

A peer review meeting will be held at the end of the process to review the Level 2 and 3 assessments.

Additional information about stock assessments is available on the Council’s Stock Assessments page and on the NOAA Fisheries website.

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Feb
26
1:00 PM13:00

Summer Flounder Commercial Mesh Exemption Framework/Addendum FMAT/PDT Meeting

The Summer Flounder Commercial Mesh Exemption Framework/Addendum Fishery Management Action Team (FMAT) / Plan Development Team (PDT) will hold a meeting via webinar on Monday, February 26, 2024 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. The FMAT/PDT will meet to review and discuss several aspects of the Summer Flounder Mesh Exemption Framework/Addenda including, the current version of Draft Action Plan, draft purpose and need statement, analysis needed for the proposed action, and timing of upcoming meetings.

Webinar Connection

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Feb
22
1:00 PM13:00

Sturgeon Bycatch Fishery Management Action Team (FMAT) / Plan Development Team (PDT) Meeting

The joint FMAT/PDT formed by the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (MAFMC) and New England Fishery Management Council (NEFMC) will meet in the afternoon of Thursday, February 22, 2024 via webinar to discuss analyses for the joint sturgeon action. This work will help inform the Joint AP meeting discussion (March 5th) and the Joint Cte meeting discussion (March 13th) and final action is expected by both Councils in April.

Briefing materials will be posted here later if appropriate.

Webinar meeting link:

https://midatlanticfisheriesmc.webex.com/midatlanticfisheriesmc/j.php?MTID=m8a549093b3c988daf6e17ea299420edc

Meeting number: 2338 314 6476 Meeting password (if needed): avNfZ38mVp7

Join by phone +1-415-655-0001 US Toll Access code: 23383146476

MAFMC Contact: Jason Didden - jdidden@mafmc.org; 302-526-5254

NEFMC Contact: Jenny Couture - jcouture@nefmc.org or Robin Frede – rfrede@nefmc.org; (978) 465-0492

About FMAT Meetings

Fishery Management Action Team (FMAT) meetings are working meetings of the Council, NOAA Fisheries, and Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission staff. Information on FMAT meeting locations for in-person meetings may be obtained by contacting Council staff prior to the meeting. This information is not posted to the Council’s website. The date and time of FMAT meetings are generally posted to the calendar on the Council’s website, sometimes with very little notice. FMAT members may discuss topics listed on the agenda in any order and may also discuss topics not listed. Members of the public may attend FMAT meetings, or listen to the meetings if they are broadcast, but should not expect to participate in the discussion unless the FMAT chair invites public input during a specified public comment period to be noted at the beginning of the meeting. Work carried out by the FMAT is considered during committee and/or Council meetings, during which public comments are encouraged.

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Feb
8
9:00 AM09:00

Northeast Trawl Advisory Panel (NTAP) Meeting

The Mid-Atlantic and New England Fishery Management Councils will hold a public meeting of their joint Northeast Trawl Advisory Panel on Thursday, February 8,2024 from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m at The Westin Arlington Gateway - F. Scott Fitzgerald Ballroom.

Webinar Connection

  • Click here to join the webinar. Meeting number (access code): 2346 785 9918;

    Meeting password: jbGdETZp396

  • Join by phone: +1-415-655-0001 US Toll - Access Code: 2346 785 9918

Meeting Materials

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Feb
5
9:30 AM09:30

Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Committee & Advisory Panel Meeting

The Council’s Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Committee and Advisory Panel will hold a public meeting on Monday, February 5, 2024 from 9 :30 a.m. - 12 p.m. via webinar.

The purpose of this meeting is for the Committee and Advisory Panel to review the Species Separation Requirements Amendment Public Hearing Document and provide input. The Committee will make recommendations about the Public Hearing Document to the Council at the February Council meeting.

Webinar Connection

  • Click here to join the webinar. Meeting number (access code): 2331 680 5932

    Password: R8fmyi3W43n

  • Join by phone: +1-415-655-0001 US Toll - Access Code: 2331 680 5932

Materials

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Feb
2
9:00 AM09:00

Golden Tilefish Research Track Working Group Meeting

This is one in a series of working group meetings associated with the Golden Tilefish Research Track Assessment. Please visit the Golden Tilefish Working Group page on the NOAA Fisheries website for an agenda and webinar connection details (scroll down to the “Schedule” section). This meeting is open to the public.

Background Information

Research track assessments evaluate new datasets that can either inform or be used in new or existing stock assessment models. Unlike management track assessments, which are driven by the need to meet specific management timelines, research track assessments are carried out over longer time frames and with fewer requirements for using the most recent data. The research track is intended to be the opportunity for extensive and comprehensive research and analysis.

Working groups carry out the analytical work required for the stock assessment, including developing and implementing the research plan and terms of reference, conducting the necessary research, compiling the results to inform the research track effort, and incorporating other information and public input as appropriate.

What Happens Next?

After the working group has completed its work, a peer review panel will be convened to conduct a comprehensive review of the research track assessment.

Typically, research track outputs are incorporated into future management track assessments (as opposed to directly informing management decisions). For this reason, research track assessments are often scheduled to have management track assessments in the following year, which ensures immediate application of the research results with the inclusion of the most recent data in a management track assessment.

Quick Links

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Jan
29
1:00 PM13:00

Longfin Inshore Squid Research Track Working Group Meeting

This is one in a series of working group meetings associated with the Longfin Inshore Squid Research Track Assessment. Please visit the Longfin Inshore Squid Research Track Working Group page on the NOAA Fisheries website for an agenda and webinar connection details (scroll down to the “Schedule” section). This meeting is open to the public.

Background Information

Research track assessments evaluate new datasets that can either inform or be used in new or existing stock assessment models. Unlike management track assessments, which are driven by the need to meet specific management timelines, research track assessments are carried out over longer time frames and with fewer requirements for using the most recent data. The research track is intended to be the opportunity for extensive and comprehensive research and analysis.

Working groups carry out the analytical work required for the stock assessment, including developing and implementing the research plan and terms of reference, conducting the necessary research, compiling the results to inform the research track effort, and incorporating other information and public input as appropriate.

What Happens Next?

After the working group has completed its work, a peer review panel will be convened to conduct a comprehensive review of the research track assessment.

Typically, research track outputs are incorporated into future management track assessments (as opposed to directly informing management decisions). For this reason, research track assessments are often scheduled to have management track assessments in the following year, which ensures immediate application of the research results with the inclusion of the most recent data in a management track assessment.

Quick Links

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Jan
26
9:00 AM09:00

Golden Tilefish Research Track Working Group Meeting

This is one in a series of working group meetings associated with the Golden Tilefish Research Track Assessment. Please visit the Golden Tilefish Working Group page on the NOAA Fisheries website for an agenda and webinar connection details (scroll down to the “Schedule” section). This meeting is open to the public.

Background Information

Research track assessments evaluate new datasets that can either inform or be used in new or existing stock assessment models. Unlike management track assessments, which are driven by the need to meet specific management timelines, research track assessments are carried out over longer time frames and with fewer requirements for using the most recent data. The research track is intended to be the opportunity for extensive and comprehensive research and analysis.

Working groups carry out the analytical work required for the stock assessment, including developing and implementing the research plan and terms of reference, conducting the necessary research, compiling the results to inform the research track effort, and incorporating other information and public input as appropriate.

What Happens Next?

After the working group has completed its work, a peer review panel will be convened to conduct a comprehensive review of the research track assessment.

Typically, research track outputs are incorporated into future management track assessments (as opposed to directly informing management decisions). For this reason, research track assessments are often scheduled to have management track assessments in the following year, which ensures immediate application of the research results with the inclusion of the most recent data in a management track assessment.

Quick Links

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Jan
12
1:00 PM13:00

Northeast Trawl Advisory Panel (NTAP) Working Group Meeting

Meeting Summary

The Northeast Trawl Advisory Panel will hold a Working Group meeting on Friday, January 12, 2024 from 1:00 - 2:30 p.m.

Webinar Connection

  • Click here to join the webinar (If prompted, enter Meeting Number: 2337 432 5077; Password: h8PGwAMs2k4)

  • Phone-Only Access: 1-415-655-0001 (U.S. Toll Free); Access code: 2337 432 5077. Please only use this option if you are not connecting to the webinar on your computer or device. Otherwise follow the audio connection prompts to call in when you join the webinar.

Meeting Materials

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Dec
21
9:00 AM09:00

Recreational Demand Model Decision Support Tool Working Group For Summer Flounder, Black Sea Bass, and Scup

This is one in a series of working group meetings hosted by the Northeast Fisheries Science Center to develop a decision support tool for the Recreational Demand Model. This tool will be used when setting the recreational bag, size, and season limits for summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass. Please visit the meeting page linked below for an agenda and webinar connection details (scroll down to the “Schedule” section). This meeting is open to the public.

*** Please note that RDM DST working group meetings are hosted by the Northeast Fisheries Science Center. Webinar connection information for these meetings is only available on the working group page (linked above) and will not be posted on the Council calendar. ***

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Dec
20
12:00 PM12:00

Sturgeon Bycatch Fishery Management Action Team (FMAT) / Plan Development Team (PDT) Meeting

The joint FMAT/PDT formed by the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (MAFMC) and New England Fishery Management Council (NEFMC) will meet in the afternoon of Wednesday, December 20, 2023 via webinar. The meeting was not open to the public because the FMAT/PDT was using confidential observer sturgeon data.

MEETING SUMMARY

The MAFMC and NEFMC have initiated a joint framework action to address Atlantic sturgeon bycatch in the monkfish and spiny dogfish gillnet fisheries. NMFS has suggested striving for more bycatch reduction than originally planned, due to recent high bycatch estimates.

MAFMC Contact: Jason Didden - jdidden@mafmc.org; 302-526-5254

NEFMC Contact: Jenny Couture - jcouture@nefmc.org or Robin Frede – rfrede@nefmc.org; (978) 465-0492

About FMAT Meetings

Fishery Management Action Team (FMAT) meetings are working meetings of the Council, NOAA Fisheries, and Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission staff. Information on FMAT meeting locations for in-person meetings may be obtained by contacting Council staff prior to the meeting. This information is not posted to the Council’s website. The date and time of FMAT meetings are generally posted to the calendar on the Council’s website, sometimes with very little notice. FMAT members may discuss topics listed on the agenda in any order and may also discuss topics not listed. Members of the public may attend FMAT meetings, or listen to the meetings if they are broadcast, but should not expect to participate in the discussion unless the FMAT chair invites public input during a specified public comment period to be noted at the beginning of the meeting. Work carried out by the FMAT is considered during committee and/or Council meetings, during which public comments are encouraged.

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Dec
14
12:00 PM12:00

Northeast Trawl Advisory Panel (NTAP) Meeting

The Mid-Atlantic and New England Fishery Management Councils will hold a public meeting of their joint Northeast Trawl Advisory Panel on Thursday, December 14, 2023 from 12:00 p.m. - 2 p.m. The goal of this meeting is to review the NTAP Operations and Orientation Manual, discuss the background and purpose of NTAP, as well as the responsibility of NTAP members.

Webinar Connection

  • Click here to join the webinar. Meeting number (access code): 2348 044 8043;

    Meeting password: NTAP_2023

  • Join by phone: +1-415-655-0001 US Toll - Access Code: 2348 044 8043

Meeting Materials

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Dec
8
9:30 AM09:30

Essential Fish Habitat Amendment - Fishery Management Action Team (FMAT) Meeting

The Council’s Essential Fish Habitat (EFH) Amendment Fishery Management Action Team (FMAT) will meet on Friday, December 8, 2023 from 9:30 a.m. - 11 a.m. via webinar.

The purpose of this meeting will be to continue work on the components of an EFH review and development of an EFH amendment. Connection details for the webinar may be obtained by contacting Council staff prior to the meeting.

Contacts:

Jessica Coakley - jcoakley@mafmc.org; 302-526-5252

Tori Kentner - tkentner@mafmc.org; 302-526-5262

Meeting Materials:

About FMAT Meetings

Fishery Management Action Team (FMAT) meetings are working meetings of the Council, NOAA Fisheries, and Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission staff. Information on FMAT meeting locations for in-person meetings may be obtained by contacting Council staff prior to the meeting. This information is not posted to the Council’s website. The date and time of FMAT meetings are generally posted to the calendar on the Council’s website, sometimes with very little notice. FMAT members may discuss topics listed on the agenda in any order and may also discuss topics not listed. Members of the public may attend FMAT meetings, or listen to the meetings if they are broadcast, but should not expect to participate in the discussion unless the FMAT chair invites public input during a specified public comment period to be noted at the beginning of the meeting. Work carried out by the FMAT is considered during committee and/or Council meetings, during which public comments are encouraged.

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Dec
7
1:30 PM13:30

Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Monitoring Committee Meeting

The Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass (SFSBSB) Monitoring Committee with meet via webinar on Thursday, December 7, 2023 from 1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m..

Staff contacts:

Webinar Connection

  • Click here to join the webinar (If prompted, enter Meeting Number: 2343 884 4792; Password: FSB_MC_Dec23)

  • Phone-Only Access: 1-415-655-0001 (U.S. Toll Free); Access code: 2343 884 4792. Please only use this option if you are not connecting to the webinar on your computer or device. Otherwise follow the audio connection prompts to call in when you join the webinar.

Meeting Materials

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Dec
5
to Dec 7

Black Sea Bass Research Track Assessment Peer Review Meeting

A peer review panel will meet December 5-7, 2023 to review the research track stock assessment for black sea bass. An agenda and other details will be posted on the meeting page linked below. This meeting is open to the public.

**** Please note that stock assessment meetings are hosted by the Northeast Fisheries Science Center. Webinar connection information for these meetings is only available on the meeting page (linked above) and will not be posted on the Council calendar. ***

Background Information

Research track assessments evaluate new datasets that can either inform or be used in new or existing stock assessment models. Unlike management track assessments, which are driven by the need to meet specific management timelines, research track assessments are carried out over longer time frames and with fewer requirements for using the most recent data. The research track is intended to be the opportunity for extensive and comprehensive research and analysis.

After the working group has completed its work, a peer review panel will be convened to conduct a comprehensive review of the research track assessment. The peer review panels review the assessment(s) for technical merit and provide recommendations on whether the assessment should or should not be used for management.

What Happens Next?

Typically, research track outputs are incorporated into future management track assessments (as opposed to directly informing management decisions). For this reason, research track assessments are often scheduled to have management track assessments in the following year, which ensures immediate application of the research results with the inclusion of the most recent data in a management track assessment.

Quick Links

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Dec
4
3:00 PM15:00

Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Advisory Panel Meeting

The Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass (SFSBSB) Advisory Panel with meet via webinar on Monday, December 4, 2023 from 3 p.m. - 6 p.m..

Staff contacts:

Webinar Connection

  • Click here to join the webinar (If prompted, enter Meeting Number: 2349 955 1755; Password: SFSBSB_AP)

  • Phone-Only Access: 1-415-655-0001 (U.S. Toll Free); Access code: 2349 955 1755. Please only use this option if you are not connecting to the webinar on your computer or device. Otherwise follow the audio connection prompts to call in when you join the webinar.

Meeting Materials

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Dec
4
9:00 AM09:00

Golden Tilefish Research Track Working Group Meeting

This is one in a series of working group meetings associated with the Golden Tilefish Research Track Assessment. Please visit the Golden Tilefish Working Group page on the NOAA Fisheries website for an agenda and webinar connection details (scroll down to the “Schedule” section). This meeting is open to the public.

Background Information

Research track assessments evaluate new datasets that can either inform or be used in new or existing stock assessment models. Unlike management track assessments, which are driven by the need to meet specific management timelines, research track assessments are carried out over longer time frames and with fewer requirements for using the most recent data. The research track is intended to be the opportunity for extensive and comprehensive research and analysis.

Working groups carry out the analytical work required for the stock assessment, including developing and implementing the research plan and terms of reference, conducting the necessary research, compiling the results to inform the research track effort, and incorporating other information and public input as appropriate.

What Happens Next?

After the working group has completed its work, a peer review panel will be convened to conduct a comprehensive review of the research track assessment.

Typically, research track outputs are incorporated into future management track assessments (as opposed to directly informing management decisions). For this reason, research track assessments are often scheduled to have management track assessments in the following year, which ensures immediate application of the research results with the inclusion of the most recent data in a management track assessment.

Quick Links

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Nov
17
9:00 AM09:00

Spiny Dogfish Committee Meeting

The Spiny Dogfish Committee with meet via webinar on Friday, November 17, 2023 from 9 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. to develop recommendations for 2024-2026 Spiny Dogfish specifications.

Staff contacts:

  • Jason Didden, jdidden@mafmc.org; 302-526-5254

Webinar Connection

Meeting Materials

Agenda:

-Assessment overview

-Acceptable Biological Catch (ABC) overview

-Fishery Performance, Advisory Panel Input overview

-Monitoring Committee Summary

-Committee Work

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Nov
16
9:00 AM09:00

Recreational Demand Model Decision Support Tool Working Group For Summer Flounder, Black Sea Bass, and Scup

This is one in a series of working group meetings hosted by the Northeast Fisheries Science Center to develop a decision support tool for the Recreational Demand Model. This tool will be used when setting the recreational bag, size, and season limits for summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass. Please visit the meeting page linked below for an agenda and webinar connection details (scroll down to the “Schedule” section). This meeting is open to the public.

*** Please note that RDM DST working group meetings are hosted by the Northeast Fisheries Science Center. Webinar connection information for these meetings is only available on the working group page (linked above) and will not be posted on the Council calendar. ***

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