Virginia and the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Committee received notification last week from the U.S. Secretary of Commerce that a moratorium on the state’s menhaden fishery has been lifted.

“We took swift action to bring Virginia into compliance in April, and I am glad that this matter is finally resolved,” said Virginia Marine Resources Commissioner Steven G. Bowman. “We will continue to ensure Virginia remains in compliance with all fisheries regulations for healthy stocks and a sustainable future for the Chesapeake Bay.”

The U.S. Secretary of Commerce found Virginia out of compliance in December 2019 and gave the commonwealth six months to come into compliance with the management plan set forth by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission.

Had Virginia not taken action, the entire menhaden fishery would have been shut down on June 17, impacting workers and other fisheries who rely on menhaden for bait.
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