Commerce, Justice, Science, And Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2010

Floor Speech

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Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Chair, I rise in opposition to this amendment. The Partnership for Mid-Atlantic Fisheries Science is incredibly important to the commercial and recreational fishing industry on the east coast. It ensures fisheries managers have the best possible science when making decisions regarding a multi-billion dollar industry. This amendment would also arbitrarily cut much needed funding from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

The Partnership for Mid-Atlantic Fisheries Science addresses the most urgent scientific issues limiting successful management of the summer flounder and black sea bass fisheries in the Mid-Atlantic region. It is a multi-state multi-institutional partnership that will utilize academic and recreational/commercial fisheries resources to develop targeted science initiatives.

Summer flounder and black sea Bass are among the most valuable recreational fish in the Mid-Atlantic. Both are also important commercial species. This project will benefit the participating recreational and commercial fishermen of the Mid-Atlantic, their shore-based supporting industries, and tee many consumers of seafood that count these species among their preferred seafood items.

This program helps us incorporate critical information into the fisheries management process. By using the best possible science fisheries managers will be able to create healthy sustainable fisheries and protect the fishing industry.

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