Overview
This joint MAFMC/NEFMC framework sets spiny dogfish specifications for the 2026-2027 fishing years and proposes several changes to the fishery’s accountability measures. The Councils took final action at their respective December 2025 meetings. Staff is preparing the framework for submission to NOAA Fisheries for review and rulemaking.
Contact: Jason Didden (jdidden@mafmc.org, 302-526-5254)
Framework Development Timeline
Current Action Plan (as of 10/14/25)
December 2024 Council Meeting: Framework initiated through approval of 2025 Implementation Plan.
February 2025 Council Meeting: The Council reviewed and provided feedback on several preliminary alternatives.
June 2025 MAFMC Meeting and NEFMC Meeting: The Councils reviewed and adopted a range of alternatives.
October 2025 MAFMC Meeting: The Mid-Atlantic Council selected preferred alternatives and approved the framework for submission to NOAA Fisheries.
December 2025 NEFMC Meeting and MAFMC Meeting: At its December meeting, the New England adopted the same framework measures as the Mid-Atlantic Council with one exception (the 105% fishery closure provision). The Mid-Atlantic Council then reconsidered the action at its December meeting and voted to align with NEFMC by not adopting the 105 percent closure measure, thus allowing the remaining elements of the framework to move forward jointly. See the press release for additional details.