Jun
30
3:00 PM15:00
Advisory Panel

Joint Meeting of the MAFMC and ASMFC Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Advisory Panels

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council’s Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Advisory Panel will hold a public webinar meeting, jointly with the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission’s Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Advisory Panel. The meeting will be held via webinar on Monday, June 30, 2025 from 3:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

The purpose of this meeting is for the Advisory Panels to develop a Fishery Performance Report (FPR) that describes recent performance of the commercial and recreational fisheries for summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass.

Staff contacts:

Webinar Connection

  • Click here to join the Webex webinar. If prompted, enter meeting number 2344 818 8808 and password SFSBSB2025.

  • After you connect to the webinar, follow the prompts to use your computer, phone, or other device for audio.

  • If necessary to connect via phone only, you may dial 1-415-655-0001 and enter access code 2344 818 8808. Please only use this option if you are not able to connect to the webinar.

Meeting Materials

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Jul
7
1:00 PM13:00
Stock Assessment

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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Jul
8
10:00 AM10:00
FMAT Meeting

Alternative Gear Marking Framework Adjustment PDT/FMAT Meeting

The Alternative Gear Marking Framework Adjustment PDT/FMAT will meet via webinar on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

This PDT/FMAT was formed by the NOAA Greater Atlantic Regional Fisheries Office (GARFO) to discuss the Alternative Gear Marking Framework. The development of this action, led by GARFO, will take place between the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (MAFMC) and the New England Fishery Management Council (NEFMC). Both Councils are anticipated to take final action in 2025, with the MAFMC scheduled to hold framework meeting 2 (final action) at the October 2025 Council Meeting.

Staff Contact: Hayden Dubniczki, 302-526-5259; hdubniczki@mafmc.org

Webinar information and 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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Jul
29
1:00 PM13:00
Monitoring Committee

Joint MAFMC and ASMFC Bluefish Monitoring Committee Meeting

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council's (MAFMC) Bluefish Monitoring Committee will hold a public meeting, jointly with the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) Bluefish Technical Committee, via webinar on Tuesday, July 29, 2025 from 1 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

The purpose of this meeting is for the Bluefish Monitoring Committee (MC) to recommend 2026-2027 catch and landings limits as well as commercial and recreational management measures.

Staff Contact: Jose Montanez: jmontanez@mafmc.org; 302-526-5258

Webinar Connection

  • Click here to join the webinar (if prompted enter the meeting number: 2334 673 2943; password: 2ycRrbyQ3A6)

  • Phone only access: 1-415-655-0001; Access code: 2334 673 2943. Please only use this option if you are not connecting to the webinar on your computer or device. Otherwise follow the audio connection prompts when you join the webinar.

Meeting Materials

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Jul
29
1:30 PM13:30
Monitoring Committee

Mackerel, Squid, Butterfish (MSB) Monitoring Committee Meeting

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council’s Mackerel, Squid, Butterfish Monitoring Committee will hold a public webinar meeting on Tuesday, July 29, 2025 from 1:30 p.m. - 2: 20 p.m.

The purpose of this meeting is for the Monitoring Committee to review potential recommendations related to the Illex squid fishery.

Staff contacts:

Webinar Connection

  • Click here to join the webinar. If prompted, enter Meeting number (access code):

    2333 234 9101; Meeting password: jfJdWJYi626

  • Phone-Only Access: 1-415-655-0001 (U.S. Toll Free); Access code: 2333 234 9101. 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 materials will be posted when available

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Jul
31
10:00 AM10:00
Monitoring Committee

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

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council's Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass (SFSBSB) Monitoring Committee will meet via webinar on Thursday, July 31, 2025 from 10 a.m.. - 4 p.m.

The objective of this meeting is for the Monitoring Committee to provide recommendations for 2026-2027 specifications for all three species.

Staff contacts:

Webinar Connection

  • Webinar information will be shared prior to the meeting

Meeting Materials

  • Meeting materials will be posted when available

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Aug
5
1:00 PM13:00
Stock Assessment

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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Aug
20
2:30 PM14:30
Advisory Panel

Spiny Dogfish Advisory Panel Meeting

The Spiny Dogfish Advisory Panel will hold two meetings via webinar on Thursday, August 20, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. and at 5 p.m., to allow more opportunity for AP participation.

The purpose of this meeting is for the Advisory Panel to provide recommendations to the Councils regarding the framework action to potentially revise catch overage paybacks and/or set 2026-2027 specifications.

Staff Contact: Jason Didden, jdidden@mafmc.org, (302) 526-5254

Webinar Connection Information

Meeting Materials

  • Meeting materials will be posted when available

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Aug
26
1:00 PM13:00
Stock Assessment

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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Sep
9
to Sep 10
SSC

September 2025 SSC Meeting

  • Hyatt Place Baltimore/Inner Harbor (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

The Council’s Scientific and Statistical Committee will meet September 9-10, 2025. This will be an in person meeting (location TBD) with a virtual option. Please note that the timing and topics may change as agendas are finalized. Check this page for updates.

Anticipated Topics:

  • Offshore wind discussion

  • MRIP FES Update and Overview

  • 2026 ABC reviews: Spiny Dogfish

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Sep
12
8:30 AM08:30
Committee Meetings, Advisory Panel

Joint Ecosystem and Ocean Planning (EOP) Committee and Advisory Panel Meeting

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council’s Ecosystem and Ocean Planning (EOP) Committee and Advisory Panel will meet jointly via webinar on Friday, September 12, 2025 from 8:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Staff Contact:

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

Webinar Connection

  • Webinar information will be shared prior to the meeting date

Meeting Materials

  • Meeting materials will be posted when available

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Sep
12
11:00 AM11:00
Monitoring Committee

Spiny Dogfish Monitoring Committee Meeting

The Spiny Dogfish Monitoring Committee with meet via webinar on Friday, September 12, 2025 from 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

The purpose of this meeting is for the Monitoring Committee to provide recommendations regarding the framework action to potentially revise catch overage paybacks and/or set 2026-2027 specifications.  

Staff contacts:

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

Webinar Connection

  • Click here to join the webinar

  • Meeting number (access code): 2347 558 9832

  • Meeting password: mWHVZ7mnm43

  • If joining by phone only: 415-655-0001 - enter meeting number: 2347 558 9832

Meeting Materials

  • Meeting materials will be shared when available

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Sep
16
2:00 PM14:00
Committee Meetings

Spiny Dogfish Committee Meeting

The Spiny Dogfish Committee will meet via webinar on Tuesday, September 16, 2025 from 2 p.m. - 5 p.m.

The purpose of this meeting is for the Committee to provide recommendations to the Councils regarding the framework action to potentially revise catch overage paybacks and/or set 2026-2027 specifications.

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

Webinar Connection

  • Click here to join the meeting. If prompted, enter Meeting number: 2342 371 0612; Meeting password: ECaKp9mmB75

  • For phone only access: 1-415-655-0001; Access Code: 2342 371 0612. 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 materials will be shared when available

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Sep
29
to Oct 2
Stock Assessment

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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Oct
15
to Oct 16
CCC

October 2025 Council Coordination Committee Meeting

The Council Coordination Committee will meet virtually October 15-16, 2025. Please visit the meeting page linked below for details.

About the CCC

The Coordination Committee (CCC) consists of the chairs, vice chairs, and executive directors from each of the eight regional fishery management councils. The general purpose of the CCC is to address issues of relevance to all Councils, including issues related to the implementation of the Magnuson-Stevens Act.

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Jun
26
9:00 AM09:00
FMAT Meeting

CANCELLED - Recreational Sector Separation Amendment FMAT/PDT

This meeting has been cancelled (6/24/25).

The Council’s and ASMFC’s joint Fishery Management Action Team (FMAT)/Plan Development Team (PDT) for the Recreational Sector Separation Amendment had planned to meet via Webinar on Thursday, June 26, 2025, from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. This meeting has been cancelled, and another meeting will be scheduled for mid- to late-July for the group to continue discussion of sector separation options and amendment next steps.

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Jun
24
to Jun 25
Stock Assessment

Peer Review Meeting: June 2025 Management Track Assessments

A peer review panel will meet June 24-25, 2025, to review the June 2025 Management Track Assessments scheduled for peer review.

Meeting Details

An agenda and other details will be posted on the meeting page 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. Each year there are two management track assessment peer reviews (one in June and one in September) that encompass several 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.

In February, the Assessment Oversight Panel (AOP) recommends 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.

During the peer review meeting, a small panel of relevant Scientific and Statistical Committee (SSC) members and other experts will review the Level 2 and Level 3 assessment for technical merit and provide recommendations on whether the assessments should or should not be used for management.

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

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Jun
20
10:00 AM10:00
Monitoring Committee

Joint Meeting of the MAFMC and ASMFC Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Monitoring Committee / Technical Committee

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council's Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Monitoring Committee will meet jointly with the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission Technical Committee on Friday, June 20, 2025 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. via webinar.

The Monitoring Committee and Technical Committee will meet jointly to discuss several issues in preparation for additional meetings later in 2025 regarding 2026-2027 recreational measures for summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass. During this meeting, the groups will discuss the configuration of the Recreation Demand Model and any potential modifications that may be needed.

Staff contacts:

Webinar Connection

  • Click here to join the meeting (If prompted, enter meeting ID: 831081246).

  • Phone only access: 1-650-419-1505; Access Code: 831081246#. 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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Jun
16
9:00 AM09:00
Working Group

Northeast Trawl Advisory Panel (NTAP) Working Group Meeting

The Northeast Trawl Advisory Panel Bigelow Contingency Plan Working Group will hold a meeting via webinar on Monday, June 16, 2025 from 9 a.m. – 10 a.m.

Webinar Connection

  • Click here to join the webinar (If prompted, enter Meeting Number: 2340 920 1594; Password: mHFXJfxy483)

  • Phone-Only Access: 1-415-655-0001 (U.S. Toll Free); Access code: 2340 920 1594. 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 materials will be shared when available

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Jun
12
4:00 PM16:00
Advisory Panel

Joint MAFMC and ASMFC Bluefish Advisory Panel Meeting

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council's (MAFMC) Bluefish Advisory Panel will hold a public meeting, jointly with the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) Bluefish Advisory Panel, via webinar on Thursday, June 12, 2025 from 4:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.

The purpose of this meeting is for the Advisory Panel to develop a fishery performance report (FPR) that describes recent performance of the bluefish commercial and recreational fisheries.

Staff Contact: Jose Montanez: jmontanez@mafmc.org; 302-526-5258

Webinar Connection

  • Click here to join the webinar (if prompted enter the meeting number: 2335 671 8268; password: dDyqq4R4rm2)

  • Phone only access: 1-415-655-0001; Access code: 2335 671 8268. Please only use this option if you are not connecting to the webinar on your computer or device. Otherwise follow the audio connection prompts when you join the webinar.

Meeting Materials

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Jun
10
1:00 PM13:00
Stock Assessment

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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Jun
2
9:00 AM09:00
FMAT Meeting

Recreational Sector Separation Amendment FMAT/PDT

The Council’s and ASMFC’s joint Fishery Management Action Team (FMAT)/Plan Development Team (PDT) for the Recreational Sector Separation Amendment will meet via Webinar on Monday, June 2, 2025, from 9-11 a.m.

The group will discuss the outcomes of the April Council/Policy Board meeting and consider next steps for developing sector separation options.

Webinar Connection

  • Click here to join the webinar (If prompted, enter Meeting Number: 2349 020 6014; Password: 3WumQn3p7yk)

  • Phone-Only Access: 1-415-655-0001 (U.S. Toll Free); Access code: 2349 020 6014. 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.

About FMAT Meetings

Fishery Management Action Team (FMAT) meetings are working meetings of the Council, NOAA Fisheries, and Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission staff. 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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May
29
9:00 AM09:00
Working Group

Northeast Trawl Advisory Panel (NTAP) Working Group Meeting

The Northeast Trawl Advisory Panel Bigelow Contingency Plan Working Group will hold a meeting via webinar on Thursday, May 29, 2025 from 9 a.m. – 10 a.m. During this meeting the working group will continue their discussions on the Industry-Based Survey pilot project.

Webinar Connection

  • Click here to join the webinar (If prompted, enter Meeting Number: 2331 235 4547; Password: mvPHkf24J5N)

  • Phone-Only Access: 1-415-655-0001 (U.S. Toll Free); Access code: 2331 235 4547. 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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May
21
to May 22
NRCC

May 2025 NRCC Spring 2025 Meeting

  • Google Calendar ICS

The Northeast Region Coordinating Council (NRCC) will meet May 21-22, 2025. Visit the meeting page linked below for additional details.

About the NRCC

The Northeast Region Coordinating Council (NRCC) was formed in 2001 and consists of members from the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, Greater Atlantic Regional Fisheries Office, Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, New England Fishery Management Council, and Northeast Fisheries Science Center. The NRCC’s mission is to “prioritize, communicate, and coordinate fisheries scientific and management resources through in-person meetings that include Federal, State, Council, and Commission managers and scientists of the Greater Atlantic region of the United States.”

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May
20
10:30 AM10:30
FMAT Meeting

Alternative Gear Marking Framework Adjustment PDT/FMAT Meeting

The Alternative Gear Marking Framework Adjustment PDT/FMAT will meet via webinar on Tuesday, May 20th, 2025, from 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

This PDT/FMAT was formed by the NOAA Greater Atlantic Regional Fisheries Office (GARFO) to discuss the Alternative Gear Marking Framework. The development of this action, led by GARFO, will take place between the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (MAFMC) and the New England Fishery Management Council (NEFMC). Both Councils are anticipated to take final action in 2025, with the MAFMC scheduled to hold framework meeting 2 (final action) at the October 2025 Council Meeting.

Staff Contact: Hayden Dubniczki, 302-526-5259; hdubniczki@mafmc.org

Webinar information and 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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May
20
10:00 AM10:00

East Coast Climate Coordination Group Meeting

  • The Governor Calvert House at Historic Inns of Annapolis (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

The East Coast Climate Coordination Group will meet in Annapolis, MD.

Webinar Connection

Meeting Materials

Staff Contacts:

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May
20
9:30 AM09:30
Monitoring Committee

Tilefish Monitoring Committee Meeting

The Tilefish Monitoring Committee will meet via webinar on Tuesday, May 20, 2025 from 9:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. 

The purpose of this meeting is to discuss to discuss management measures for both golden and blueline tilefish.

Staff Contacts: José Montañez (302-526-5258, jmontanez@mafmc.org) or Hannah Hart (302-526-5263, hhart@mafmc.org)

Webinar Information

  • Click here to join the meeting. If prompted, enter Meeting number (access code): 

    2347 592 9207; Meeting password: Nb6uWtMwA68

  • Join by phone: 415-655-0001 (US Toll) - Access Code: 2347 592 9207

Meeting Materials

Golden Tilefish 

Blueline Tilefish

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May
15
9:30 AM09:30
Monitoring Committee

CANCELLED - Mackerel, Squid, Butterfish (MSB) Monitoring Committee Meeting

This meeting has been cancelled. (5/14/2025)

The Council’s Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish (MSB) Monitoring Committee was going to meet (webinar) on May 15, 2025 to develop recommendations for the Council regarding upcoming specifications: Setting 2026-2028 chub mackerel specifications and reviewing 2026 specifications for butterfish and longfin squid. However the Scientific and Statistical Committee did not make any changes to current and/or planned 2026 Acceptable Biological Catches (ABCs), so the Monitoring Committee meeting was not needed and was canceled.

The Council will still address these specifications at its June 2024 meeting.

Please contact Jason Didden (butterfish and longfin squid) or Julia Beaty (chub mackerel) for more information if needed.

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May
8
9:00 AM09:00
Working Group

Northeast Trawl Advisory Panel (NTAP) Working Group Meeting

The Northeast Trawl Advisory Panel Bigelow Contingency Plan Working Group will hold a meeting via webinar on Thursday, May 8, 2025 from 9 a.m. – 10 a.m. During this meeting the working group will continue their discussions on the Industry-Based Survey pilot project.

Webinar Connection

  • Click here to join the webinar (If prompted, enter Meeting Number: 2331 235 4547; Password: mvPHkf24J5N)

  • Phone-Only Access: 1-415-655-0001 (U.S. Toll Free); Access code: 2331 235 4547. 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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May
6
1:00 PM13:00
Stock Assessment

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
2
8:00 AM08:00
Monitoring Committee

Spiny Dogfish Monitoring Committee Meeting

The Spiny Dogfish Monitoring Committee will meet via webinar on Friday, May 2, 2025 from 8 a.m. - 10 a.m. to develop recommendations for the Council regarding alternatives and analyses for a framework action that is considering modifications to payback accountability measures when specifications are exceeded.

 More information on this framework action is available at https://www.mafmc.org/actions/spiny-dogfish-accountability-measures-fw.

Staff contact: Jason Didden, jdidden@mafmc.org; 302-526-5254

Webinar Connection

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    Webex Meeting number: 2330 179 5299

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    If joining by phone only: 415-655-0001 and use meeting number

Meeting Materials

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Apr
30
9:00 AM09:00
Advisory Panel

Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Advisory Panel Meeting

The Council’s Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Advisory Panel will hold a public meeting on Wednesday, April 30, 2025 from 9 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. via webinar.

The purpose of this meeting is for the Advisory Panel to develop a fishery performance report (FPR) for Atlantic surfclam and ocean quahog. The intent of the FPR is to facilitate a venue for structured input from the Advisory Panel for specifications processes. The FPR will be used by the MAFMC’s Scientific and Statistical Committee and the Council when reviewing specifications for the 2026 fishing year.

Webinar Connection

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  • Join by phone: 415-655-0001 (US Toll)

Meeting Materials

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Apr
28
2:00 PM14:00
FMAT Meeting

Alternative Gear Marking Framework Adjustment PDT/FMAT Meeting

The Alternative Gear Marking Framework Adjustment PDT/FMAT will meet via webinar on Monday, April 28, 2025 from 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.

This PDT/FMAT was formed by the NOAA Greater Atlantic Regional Fisheries Office (GARFO) to discuss the Alternative Gear Marking Framework. The development of this action, led by GARFO, will take place between the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (MAFMC) and the New England Fishery Management Council (NEFMC). Both Councils are anticipated to take final action in 2025, with the MAFMC tentatively scheduled to hold framework meeting 1 at the April 2025 Council Meeting and take final action at the October 2025 Council Meeting.

Staff Contact: Hayden Dubniczki, 302-526-5259; hdubniczki@mafmc.org

Webinar information and 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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Apr
24
9:00 AM09:00
Working Group

Northeast Trawl Advisory Panel (NTAP) Working Group Meeting

The Northeast Trawl Advisory Panel Bigelow Contingency Plan Working Group will hold a meeting via webinar on Thursday, April 24, 2025 from 9 a.m. – 10 a.m. During this meeting the working group will continue their discussions on the Industry-Based Survey pilot project.

Webinar Connection

  • Click here to join the webinar (If prompted, enter Meeting Number: 2331 235 4547; Password: mvPHkf24J5N)

  • Phone-Only Access: 1-415-655-0001 (U.S. Toll Free); Access code: 2331 235 4547. 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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Apr
23
1:00 PM13:00
Advisory Panel

Mackerel, Squid, Butterfish (MSB) Advisory Panel Meeting

The Council’s Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish (MSB) Advisory Panel (AP) will meet via webinar on Wednesday, April 23, 2025 from 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.

The MSB AP will develop Fishery Performance Reports for MSB species except Atlantic mackerel, which will be addressed later in 2025. The Fishery Performance Reports are considered by the Scientific and Statistical Committee (SSC) when setting Acceptable Biological Catches (ABC’s).

The MSB Fishery Performance Reports will be addressed in the following order: Chub mackerel, longfin squid, Illex squid, Atlantic mackerel, and then butterfish.

Webinar Connection

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  • For phone only access: 1-415-655-0001; Access code: 2337 947 9232. 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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Apr
21
1:00 PM13:00
SSC

Joint MAFMC/SAFMC Blueline Tilefish SSC Sub-Group Meeting (Day #1)

A sub-panel of the Mid-Atlantic and South Atlantic Fishery Management Councils’ Scientific and Statistical Committees (SSCs) will meet via webinar on Monday, April 21 and Wednesday, April 23, 2025 from 1 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. each day.

The joint sub-panel will meet to review the Data Limited Methods (DLM) model for the Atlantic Blueline Tilefish stock north of Cape Hatteras, North Carolina developed as part of the SouthEast Data, Assessment, and Review (SEDAR) 92 process.

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

Webinar Information

  • Click here to join the meeting (If prompted, enter Meeting Number: 2332 630 4914; Password: YuWpJA2im33). After you connect, you will have the option to choose whether to use your phone or computer microphone and speakers for audio.

  • For phone only access: 1-415-655-0001; Access code: 2332 630 4914. 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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Apr
16
2:00 PM14:00
Advisory Panel

Tilefish Advisory Panel Meeting

The Tilefish Advisory Panel will meet Wednesday, April 16, 2025 from 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss recent performance of the blueline and golden tilefish commercial and recreational fisheries and develop Fishery Performance Reports.

Staff Contacts: José Montañez (302-526-5258, jmontanez@mafmc.org) or Hannah Hart (302-526-5263, hhart@mafmc.org)

Webinar Information

  • Click here to join the meeting (If prompted, enter Meeting Number: 2334 082 2545; Password: hEZPMTk7U28). After you connect, you will have the option to choose whether to use your phone or computer microphone and speakers for audio.

  • For phone only access: 1-415-655-0001; Access code: 2334 082 2545. 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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Apr
7
1:00 PM13:00
Stock Assessment

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.

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