DESCRIPTION

The Commission was formed by the fifteen Atlantic coast states more than fifty years ago to assist in managing and conserving their shared coastal fishery resources. With the recognition that fish do not adhere to political boundaries, the states formed an Interstate Compact, which was approved by the U.S. Congress and signed into law in 1942 by the President. The states have found that their mutual interest in sustaining healthy coastal fishery resources is best achieved by working cooperatively, in collaboration with the federal government. Through this approach, the states uphold their collective fisheries management responsibilities in a cost effective, timely, and responsive fashion. States are represented on the Commission by three Commissioners, including the Director for the state's marine fisheries management agency, a state legislator, and an individual representing fishery interests, appointed by the state governor. These commissioners participate in deliberations in the commission's five main policy arenas: interstate fisheries management; research and statistics; habitat conservation; recreational fisheries; and law enforcement.

SERVICE AND ACTIVITIES

1. Coordination of interjurisdictional marine fisheries along Atlantic Coast
2. Fisheries Focus - monthly newsletter of ASMFC activities
3. Habitat Hotline - quarterly newsletter of Coastal habitat issues

AREA OF CONCENTRATION

Interjurisdictional Marine Fisheries Management, including Research & Statistics, Habitat Conservation, and Sport Fish Restoration.

GEOGRAPHIC SCOPE OF ACTIVITES

Atlantic Coastal States (Maine to Florida)

TYPE OF ORGANIZATION

State Governmental