If you love eating North Carolina seafood…

If you love eating North Carolina seafood, you should be concerned about recent actions and proposals of the North Carolina Marine Fisheries Commission, who are enacting or proposing strict harvest limits and reducing your access to local seafood with flawed or no science behind their decisions.

NC Catch board member Jason Hall shares his thoughts: 

The recent decision by the North Carolina Marine Fisheries Commission to pass regulations that reduce consumer access to popular fish species like speckled trout, flounder, and especially the proposed significant cuts to blue crab harvest is deeply concerning. These regulations are being justified by stock assessments that, as has been pointed out, are scientifically flawed or non-existent.

While conservation of fish stocks is undoubtedly important, it's equally crucial that we ensure any measures taken are based on sound, accurate science. Implementing policies based on questionable data runs the risk of harming the very consumers that these decisions are meant to protect.

One of the most troubling aspects of these regulations is their potential to sharply drive up seafood prices. With inflation already putting pressure on many household budgets, the possibility of even higher prices for everyday staples like seafood could create an additional financial burden, particularly for middle and lower-income families. As the availability of these fish species dwindles, it’s likely that only wealthier consumers will be able to afford them, turning seafood from a common delight into an elite luxury.

At the heart of this issue is the need for greater oversight and accountability in how decisions are made regarding fisheries management. The public deserves assurance that these regulations are based on the best available science and not on flawed assessments that could inadvertently harm the very industries they intend to protect. 

Consumers, particularly those who rely on affordable seafood, need to advocate for transparency and fairness in these decisions. Writing to elected officials and calling for better oversight is a necessary step in ensuring that seafood remains accessible and affordable for all North Carolinians, not just the privileged few.

Ultimately, the role of regulators should be to strike a balance between sustainability and accessibility. If we don’t act now, we risk seeing seafood become an indulgence for the rich, rather than a resource that can be enjoyed by everyone.

What you can do: look up your legislators and call or write to them to stand up for your access to North Carolina seafood and the need for reasonable, data-based decision making!