Maryland Requests Federal Fishery Disaster Declaration for Commercial Oyster Fleet
Photo by Oyster Encyclopedia
In the attached letter below signed by Governor Moore, Maryland has formally requested a federal fishery disaster declaration from the U.S. Department of Commerce under the Magnuson-Stevens Act and the Interjurisdictional Fisheries Act. The request comes after a devastating season for the commercial oyster fleet, driven by prolonged ice conditions and a sharp decline in consumer confidence following the Potomac Interceptor sewage spill.
Although state monitoring shows no impact to approved harvesting waters, misinformation and confusion about closures have led to lost markets and depressed prices. As of mid-February, oyster harvests are down 44% compared to the five-year average, and dockside value has dropped 66% (inflation-adjusted).
If granted, federal disaster assistance could provide direct financial relief, marketing support, and funding for public education efforts to restore confidence in Maryland oysters and protect the livelihoods of our watermen.
Gov. Moore Letter to Sec. Lutnick re_ Federal Fishery Disaster Declaration
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