ARLINGTON, VA — Atlantic coastal states from Maine to Maryland have scheduled their hearings to gather public comment on the Public Information Document (PID) for the Draft Fishery Management Plan for Cancer Crab. Maine's date, time, and location is as follows:

Maine Department of Marine Resources

Monday, Sept. 22, 6 p.m.

Casco Bay Lines Ferry Terminal

Conference Room

56 Commercial Street

Portland, Maine

Contact: Terry Stockwell at 207.624.6553

As the first step in the development of a FMP, the PID seeks public input on information concerning Cancer crab fisheries, including the identification of major issues and options relative to the management of these species. The PID was initiated in response to concern about increasing targeted fishing pressure for Jonah crab and rock crab (collectively referred to as Cancer crab). Both species have long been considered a bycatch in the lobster fishery, however, growing market demand has doubled landings in the past seven years.

Landings of both species in 2012 was more than 12 million pounds and estimated to be worth more than $9 million. Given the absence of state and federal management programs and stock assessments for Cancer crab, there is concern the current harvest may compromise the sustainability of the resource.

Fishermen and other interested groups are encouraged to provide input on the PID either by attending state public hearings or providing written comment. The PID is available at http://www.asmfc.org/files/PublicInput/Crab_PID_forPublicComment_Aug2014.pdf and can also be accessed on the Commission website (www.asmfc.org) under Public Input.

Public comment will be accepted until 5 p.m. (EST) on October 3, and should be forwarded to Kate Taylor, Senior FMP Coordinator, 1050 N. Highland St, Suite A-N, Arlington, VA 22201; 703.842.0741 (FAX) or at mailto:ktaylor@asmfc.org (Subject line: Cancer Crabs). For more information, contact Kate Taylor at ktaylor@asmfc.org or 703.842.0740.