Why Defend?
The population of Atlantic Menhaden is crashing. The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) coordinates and oversees the management of menhaden along the East Coast. In 2010 the ASMFC completed a stock assessment and determined that the population is at record low levels.
“Overfishing” is a term used by marine biologists to describe when fish are being taken out of the ecosystem faster than nature can replace them. According to the ASMFC peer-reviewed stock assessment, overfishing of the Atlantic menhaden has occurred 32 of the last 54 years.
Each species occupies a crucial niche in the ecosystem. Removal of prey/forage species, like Menhaden, disrupts the ecosystem’s natural balance and sustainability. Menhaden are food for for other fish and wildlife, including osprey, whales, striped bass, tuna, bluefish, and weakfish.
Gamefish are beginning to show the signs of malnourishment. Menhaden historically comprised 70% of a striped bass’ diet. But currently they only provide 7%. Weakfish and osprey populations are also showing signs of malnourishment and increased mortality. If we want to protect our gamefish and marine mammals, we must protect their food.
Right now, is the first time in the history of the Menhaden fishery there is an attempt to end overfishing and put a hard limit on the amount of fish being taken out of our waters.
The ASMFC has proposed new regulations for the maximum spawning potential. Click here to learn more.