The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council recently presented its outgoing chairman, Richard B. Robins, Jr., with the first MAFMC Award of Excellence. The award was presented to Robins for his distinguished service to the council and contributions to its conservation and management efforts.

Robins was appointed to the council in 2007 and was elected as chairman the following year. During his 8-year tenure as chairman, Robins led the council in the development of more than 25 amendments, 17 frameworks and numerous specifications for the Council’s managed species.

“Rick Robins has demonstrated exemplary leadership as chairman of the Council,” said Chris Moore, executive director of the council, in a press release. “His chairmanship has been defined by an unwavering commitment to the sustainability of Mid-Atlantic fisheries and his tireless efforts to develop innovative approaches to the complex challenges of marine fisheries management.”

One of Robins’ most notable accomplishments was advocating for the council's first-ever strategic plan to be stakeholder-driven. This was achieved through a large-scale outreach effort in which more than 1,500 stakeholders provided input on the future of Mid-Atlantic fisheries.

A full release on the details of Robins' career can be found on the council's website.