Regional Fishery Management Councils

Regional Fishery Management Councils are federal organizations created to oversee and conserve fish populations and habitat in specific regions of U.S. oceans and seas. Comprising industry, scientific, and government representatives, they develop management plans to ensure sustainable fishing practices. These councils aim to balance resource use with conservation, preventing overfishing and protecting marine ecosystems for future generations. They work collaboratively to set fishing limits, establish protected areas, and monitor fish stocks, making decisions that benefit both local communities and the health of the ocean environment.