History

The New Jersey Marine Fisheries Council was created by the Marine Fisheries Management and Commercial Fisheries Act of 1979 (N.J.S.A.23:2B). The council meets bi-monthly.

Composition

The council consists of eleven members appointed by the Governor, with the consent of the Senate. The makeup of the council is set by statute and is composed of four sports fishermen, two active commercial fin fishermen, one active fish processor, two members of the general public, and the chairman of the two sections of the Shellfisheries Council.

Powers and Duties

• Contribute to the preparation and revision of fisheries management plans.
• Be empowered to disapprove, within 60 days of the proposal, any rule or regulation or any amendment thereto proposed by the commissioner.
• Advise the commissioner on policies of the department and in the planning, development, and implementation of all departmental programs related to marine and shellfish.
• Examine, consider and make recommendations in any matters pertaining to the conservation and management of fisheries resources throughout the State.
• Submit to the commissioner any recommendations for new rules and regulations or revision to existing rules and regulations which it deems necessary for the proper operation of an effective marine fisheries program.
• Hold periodic public hearings in regard to current issues affecting the operation of the marine fisheries program.
• Recommend the convening of species related citizen panels.
• Study and analyze economic, social and ecological data relating to the operation of the marine fisheries program.

Council Advisory Committees

The Marine Fisheries Council assembles Council Advisory Committees to discuss issues for a particular species, group of species, gear type, or other fishery management topics. These Committees consist of three to five Council members and several citizen advisors.

The Committees advise the Council on:

• The assessments and specifications contained in each fishery within the state
• Current trends and developments in fishery matters
• The effect of such fishery management plans on local economies and social structures
• Potential conflicts between user groups of a given fishery resource
• Enforcement problems peculiar to each fishery with emphasis on the expected need for enforcement resources
• Additional information as requested

Prospective advisors must apply for appointment by completing an Advisory Committee Application that will provide the applicant’s background, experience, and reason for interest in being an advisor.

Marine Fisheries Council Advisory Committees
Marine Fisheries Council Committee Advisor Letter and Application

NJ Marine Fisheries Council Administrative Guidelines