NMFS is currently seeking proposals for its 2014 Mid-Atlantic Research Set-Aside program. Applications must be submitted to the agency by 5 p.m. on Monday, May 6.
The program sets aside up to 3 percent of the total allowable catch for research purposes. Participating vessels may be authorized to harvest species in excess of any imposed trip limit or during fishery closures. Landings from the trips are sold to generate funds that help defray costs for approved research projects and compensate vessel owners.
Research priorities this year include summer flounder, scup, black sea bass, longfin squid, Illex squid, Atlantic mackerel, butterfish, river herring, bluefish and spiny dogfish. Click here to read the full text of the announcement.