The New England and Mid-Atlantic Councils are holding three joint webinar meetings for the Advisory Panels to provide input to help inform the Councils’ ongoing evaluation of vessel baseline restrictions. These restrictions apply to most commercial limited access fisheries managed by the Councils and require that vessel replacements or upgrades must be within 10% of the length and 20% of the horsepower of the permit's baseline vessel. Some industry participants have reported challenges in acquiring suitable replacement vessels or engines that meet these specifications, particularly for smaller vessels.

The Councils are evaluating these restrictions and may consider initiating a joint management action to consider possible modifications. Input provided by advisors during these meetings will help inform Council discussions of this issue. If the Councils agree to initiate a management action, work on an action would occur in 2027 and there would be additional opportunities for Advisory Panel and public input in the future.

Visit the NEFMC meeting page linked below for additional details and webinar registration information.