Marine Fisheries Commission Continues to Seek Advisers
MOREHEAD CITY – The N.C. Marine Fisheries Commission has extended the deadline for applying to sit on various advisory committees.
The commission is seeking commercial fishermen from the Pamlico and Core sounds areas or other individuals interested in sea turtle protection to fill three vacancies on a Sea Turtle Advisory Committee.
The commission is also seeking a recreational fisherman to fill one vacant seat on a Coastal Recreational Fishing License Advisory Committee and a charter and/or for hire fisherman to fill one vacancy on a Northeast Regional Advisory Committee.
Duties of the Sea Turtle Committee include reviewing sea turtle observer reports, assisting with fishermen education; determining measures to reduce the incidental take of sea turtles; monitoring observer program issues; and reviewing Incidental Take Permit applications to the National Marine Fisheries Service.
The Coastal Recreational Fishing License Committee reviews applications for Coastal Recreational Fishing License grants related to public outreach and education, and improving public fishing access and fishing opportunities.
The Northeast Committee reviews and advises the commission on fisheries issues pertaining to the northern coastal area of the state. These issues may be referred to them by the commission, such as draft fishery management plans, or brought to the commission’s attention by the committee.
Individuals interested in serving as advisers should be willing to attend meetings at least once every two months and actively participate in the committee process. Advisers will be reimbursed for travel and other expenses incurred in relation to their official duties.
Adviser applications are available online at http://www.ncfisheries.net/mfc/advisorforms.html, at the N.C. Division of Marine Fisheries’ offices or by calling 252-808-8023 or 800-682-2632. Applications should be returned by May 4 to the Division of Marine Fisheries, P.O. Box 769, Morehead City, NC 28557, Attention: Lauren Morris.