Ocean – Fisheries – Pew

America's Living Oceans: Charting a Course for Sea Change

Mon, 02 Jun 2003 17:10:00 GMT

America’s oceans are in crisis and the stakes could not be higher.

Science and Citizenship

Fri, 13 Feb 2004 18:55:00 GMT

Scientists from around the world are in Seattle for the annual meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science.

It's Stingray, Dahling! A Species in Danger

Sat, 26 Nov 2005 20:10:00 GMT

If you happen to be shopping for a watch, a jewelry pouch or a pair of shoes this holiday season, high-end manufacturers like Cartier and Bill Blass have something for you: stingray leather. Also known as shagreen, the skin of stingrays is being used increasingly for accessories from wallets to fancy pens.

A Farm-Raised Fish Tale

Mon, 05 Dec 2005 19:10:00 GMT

The ongoing debate between scientists and public health experts over the health impacts of eating farm raised salmon is not only confusing to consumers, but has regrettably overshadowed some of the other significant problems associated with farming fish in the sea.

Reduce Killing Of Sharks, So Important In The Marine Food Web

Sat, 18 Mar 2006 20:15:00 GMT

When Peter Benchley, the author of Jaws, died last month, he had spent much of the last 20 years trying to change the image of sharks portrayed in his book and subsequent movie. He didn't create the demonic image of sharks reflected in Jaws.

We Need To Save The Whales - Again

Wed, 31 May 2006 18:45:00 GMT

One of the most heralded victories of the global environmental movement was the establishment in 1982 of a moratorium on commercial whaling. With that one narrow vote by the International Whaling Commission (IWC), so hard fought by Greenpeace and other environmental organizations, the public believed that the slaughter of the world's largest mammal was at an end. Or was it?

Shark Alliance Calls Upon European Union Nations to End Shark Finning

Thu, 07 Sep 2006 21:05:00 GMT

The Pew Charitable Trusts has launched Shark Alliance, an international coalition of non-government organizations dedicated to the science-based conservation of sharks.

European Parliament Votes Against Serious Threat to Shark Populations

Thu, 28 Sep 2006 21:00:00 GMT

The Shark Alliance today welcomed the European Parliament’s decision to replace recommendations to further weaken already flawed shark finning regulations with calls for much needed improvements to the rules.

Empty Rivers: The Decline of River Herring and the Need to Reduce Mid-water Trawl Bycatch

Tue, 31 Oct 2006 22:25:00 GMT

Special report revealing that river herring populations are disappearing and outlining what fishery managers need to do to address bycatch at sea by industrial midwater trawl fishing.

Statement of Joshua Reichert on the “Impacts of Biodiversity Loss on Ocean Ecosystem Services” Report

Thu, 02 Nov 2006 14:45:00 GMT

A major study published today in the journal Science documents that roughly one third of the world's commercial fisheries have collapsed, and that unless current trends are reversed, all of the world's commercial fisheries are likely to have collapsed in less than 50 years.

When the World Runs out of Seafood

Fri, 03 Nov 2006 19:50:00 GMT

Since the dawn of human civilization, people have eaten fish. And for most of the past 100,000 years, it has been plentiful. It isn't any longer.

Not So Happy Penguins; Irresponsible Fishing and Climate Change Threaten Species

Fri, 01 Dec 2006 16:35:00 GMT

There's been much ado about penguins on movie screens across America lately.

European Union Endorses Shark Trade Limits

Tue, 19 Dec 2006 22:00:00 GMT

European Union Member States approved German proposals to protect spiny dogfish sharks (Squalus acanthias) and porbeagle sharks (Lamna nasus) under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), a move hailed by the Shark Alliance.

Marine Aquaculture Task Force Suggests Regulating Aquaculture

Mon, 08 Jan 2007 17:10:00 GMT

Congress should enact legislation to ensure that strong environmental standards are in place to regulate the siting and conduct of offshore marine aquaculture, according to an independent panel of leaders from scientific, policymaking, business, and conservation institutions.

Saving Endangered Whales at No Cost

Tue, 09 Jan 2007 15:35:00 GMT

The North Atlantic right whale is one of the most critically endangered marine species.

Sustainable Marine Aquaculture: Fulfilling The Promise; Managing The Risks

Tue, 09 Jan 2007 17:05:00 GMT

Sustainable Marine Aquaculture: Fulfilling The Promise; Managing The Risks, a new report from Marine Aquaculture Task Force, states that the Congress should enact legislation to ensure that strong environmental standards are in place to regulate the siting and conduct of offshore marine aquaculture.

Threats to Migratory Sharks Highlighted

Sat, 17 Mar 2007 20:55:00 GMT

The Shark Alliance highlights the conclusion by the Scientific Council of the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS) that 35 species of migratory sharks and rays considered Threatened by the IUCN (World Conservation Union), also meet the criteria for listing under the Convention on Migratory Species.

Chair’s Summary of the First Pew Whale Symposium

Thu, 26 Apr 2007 18:20:00 GMT

More than 60 people from around the world gathered in New York at the United Nations to analyze options for the conservation of whales, specifically exploring policies for resolving the current impasse over commercial and scientific whaling at the International Whaling Commission.

Sharks at Risk: Scientists Say EU Shark Finning Ban Ineffective and Call for Major Change

Thu, 17 May 2007 20:55:00 GMT

A new scientific report published on May 17th concludes that the EU ban on shark finning - slicing off a shark's fins and dumping the body at sea - is not effective.

Pew Seeks 'Common Voice' to Conserve Whales, Pew Whale Symposium to be Presented at International Whaling Commission Meeting

Mon, 21 May 2007 14:00:00 GMT

The Pew Environment Group calls on members of the International Whaling Commission meeting in Anchorage, Alaska, this week to resolve an impasse over commercial and scientific whaling that threatens the conservation of whales.

Pew Welcomes Decision to Hold Special Meeting on the Future of the IWC

Thu, 31 May 2007 13:55:00 GMT

Monica Medina, director of the Pew Whale Conservation Project, welcomed today’s decision of the International Whaling Commission (IWC) to hold a special meeting to discuss thoroughly the challenges that lay ahead to reinforce the International Whaling Commission.

A Dark Day for Dogfish: CITES Fails to Safeguard Sharks from Unsustainable Trade

Fri, 15 Jun 2007 20:45:00 GMT

The Shark Alliance is expressing deep dismay over today’s defeat of a European Union (EU) proposal to limit international trade in imperiled spiny dogfish sharks through the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).

Portugal Pivotal to Saving Sharks

Tue, 11 Sep 2007 20:45:00 GMT

The Shark Alliance is calling on the Portuguese government - in its current role of President of the European Union (EU) - to use its influence to promote swift development of a sound EU Plan of Action for shark conservation, and thereby improve the outlook for these valuable yet vulnerable species.

Illegal Hunting Turning Clock Back on Whales

Wed, 26 Sep 2007 18:55:00 GMT

The illegal killing of a gray whale off the coast of Washington state earlier this month by five members of the Makah Nation caused a public outcry, and justifiably so.

Launch of First Ever European Shark Week: 'Every Fin Counts!'

Mon, 08 Oct 2007 20:40:00 GMT

The Shark Alliance, a coalition of forty NGOs dedicated to science-based conservation of sharks, is delighted to announce the launch of the first ever EUROPEAN SHARK WEEK, which will be running from 8th – 14th October.

River Herring Populations Disappearing from Atlantic Seaboard

Wed, 31 Oct 2007 13:35:00 GMT

A report released today by the Herring Alliance shows that river herring populations along the entire East Coast have been decimated to a mere fraction of their historic levels.

Small Fish in Big Trouble

Tue, 06 Nov 2007 17:10:00 GMT

New England's herring are in a pickle. Our fishermen have caught these small, oily fish for centuries without a problem. What's different today is that fishing fleets with nets the size of football fields are scooping up huge amounts of herring until the schools are broken up and leave the area.

Statement of Peter Baker of the Pew Environment Group and Director of the Herring Alliance on the New England Fishery Management Council (NEFMC) Voting to Protect Atlantic Herring

Wed, 07 Nov 2007 14:35:00 GMT

The NEFMC today voted to protect an important regional resource by overhauling the Atlantic herring fishery.

Feds Flunk First Test of New Fish Law

Tue, 13 Nov 2007 15:00:00 GMT

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), ignoring scientific advice and a mandate from Congress and President Bush to end overfishing, has recommended a quota of 15.77 million pounds for the 2008 summer flounder fishing season, endangering the recovery of this depleted population.

Summer Flounder Catch Quotas Must Reflect Solid Science

Sun, 25 Nov 2007 18:55:00 GMT

Contrary to a Nov. 9 John Geiser column, "Environmentalists, anglers at odds over summer flounder fishery," the Pew Charitable Trusts' Environment Group is not calling for closure in 2009 of the summer flounder fishery. Instead, we advocate taking a cue from striped bass management and heeding scientific warnings to take aggressive action to restore summer flounder stocks before it's too late.

Concerned Scientific Community Calls for European Conservation of Sharks and Rays

Mon, 26 Nov 2007 21:00:00 GMT

European marine scientists at a weekend shark and ray conference signed a Statement of Concern calling for improved European shark policies, bringing the total number of signatories over the 100 mark.

Sharks on Deck: December Brings Shark Conservation Decisions within Europe and Globally

Mon, 03 Dec 2007 20:55:00 GMT

This month, the Shark Alliance is welcoming a suite of opportunities to secure a brighter future for beleaguered shark species, particularly those within Europe.

Options for European Shark Plan Revealed at Last

Wed, 12 Dec 2007 20:50:00 GMT

The Shark Alliance is welcoming the release of the European Commission’s consultation document for a Community Plan of Action (CPOA) for Sharks, which, at long last, addresses the plight of sharks and proposes a range of options for improvement.

United Nations Encourages Shark Conservation, Stronger Bans on Finning

Wed, 19 Dec 2007 20:45:00 GMT

The Shark Alliance is applauding ground-breaking calls for shark conservation adopted last night by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), and is highlighting its relevance for the European Union (EU).

Pew Encouraged by Japan’s Decision to Forego Killing Humpback Whales

Fri, 21 Dec 2007 14:55:00 GMT

A statement from Monica Medina, director of whale conservation, The Pew Charitable Trusts' Environment Group, on Japan’s announcement that it will forego plans to kill 50 humpback whales.

Limiting Japan's Whale Hunting

Thu, 10 Jan 2008 19:55:00 GMT

The Japanese whaling fleet set off recently amid much fanfare and celebration from its home port of Shimonoseki.

Japan Should Stop the Charade of Killing Whales for 'Science'

Wed, 16 Jan 2008 20:00:00 GMT

The Japanese whaling fleet set off recently amid much fanfare and celebration from its home port of Shimonoseki. Children waved flags covered with cartoon whales, politicians made speeches and a band played "Popeye the Sailor Man." Officials told the assembled crowd that Japan must preserve its "whale-eating culture."

Chair's Summary of the Second Pew Whale Symposium

Wed, 30 Jan 2008 20:10:00 GMT

One hundred participants from 28 different nationalities met at the Headquarters of the United Nations University in Tokyo on 30-January 31, 2008, for the second Pew Whale Symposium.

Pew Whale Symposium Offers Ray of Hope for Resolving Whale Controversy

Fri, 01 Feb 2008 14:50:00 GMT

One hundred participants from 28 nationalities met in Tokyo for a two-day symposium aimed at generating good will and a positive climate to help resolve the ongoing controversy surrounding the future of the International Whaling Commission (IWC).

A Report of the Second Pew Whale Symposium: A Change in Climate for Whales

Sun, 03 Feb 2008 15:25:00 GMT

The Second Pew Whale Symposium, entitled “A change in climate for whales,” took place at UN University Headquarters in Tokyo, Japan, on 30-31 January 2008.

Standing Up for Fisheries, Fishing Communications

Sun, 03 Feb 2008 18:55:00 GMT

Growing up near the ocean in Massachusetts, I not only stored up many fond memories of fishing, swimming and sailing with friends and family, but also gained a deep appreciation for the close links between coastal communities and the health of the marine ecosystem. That's why I feel it's so important not to let the erroneous assertions in Jim Hutchinson Jr.'s column from Dec. 16, "Falling for fisheries collapse, hook, line, sinker," go unchallenged.

Response to Study Mapping Human Impacts on Oceans

Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:05:00 GMT

Statement by Joshua Reichert, managing director of the Pew Environment Group, in response to today’s Science report, “A Global Map of Human Impact on Marine Ecosystems” by Benjamin S. Halpern, et al.

Statement on the U.S. Ocean Policy Report Card

Wed, 27 Feb 2008 14:55:00 GMT

Statement of Lee Crockett, Director, Federal Fisheries Policy, Pew Environment Group, on the U.S. Ocean Policy Report Card.

Oceanic Sharks Worldwide at Serious Risk from High-Seas Fishing, Rising Demand for Shark Products

Tue, 18 Mar 2008 19:35:00 GMT

Oceanic shark populations worldwide are declining from destructive high-seas commercial fishing practices and a rising global demand for shark products (mainly fins and meat), with some shark populations severely depleted and only a few stable or recovering, according to a comprehensive new book co-edited by shark experts from the Pew Institute for Ocean Science (www.pewoceanscience.org), published by Blackwell Publishing, and being released today.

Opportunity for Bush Administration to Enhance its Ocean Legacy Threatened by Shortsighted Interests

Thu, 10 Apr 2008 13:45:00 GMT

Ocean luminaries and fisheries experts today recognized the Bush administration for its efforts to end overfishing and preserve ecologically significant areas of the ocean.

Statement on U.S. FDA Inspection of Chilean Seafood Facilities

Thu, 17 Apr 2008 16:45:00 GMT

Statement of Andrea Kavanagh, manager, marine aquaculture campaign, Pew Environment Group, on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) inspecting Chilean seafood facilities.

Penguins on the Brink?

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 15:55:00 GMT

Antarctic penguins have fascinated people since they were first discovered by Magellan's expedition in 1520; the expedition historian called them "strange geese," while the crew used the fearless birds as a source of food. Today, thanks to a combination of man-made climate change and increased fishing for krill - the bread and butter for many penguin species - these flightless birds are up against threats far greater than that posed by Magellan's hungry sailors.

Statement of Lee Crockett, Director, Federal Fisheries Policy for the Pew Environment Group, on the National Marine Fisheries Service’s (NMFS) Environmental Review Proposal

Wed, 14 May 2008 13:35:00 GMT

Today, the National Marine Fisheries Service published in the Federal Register its proposed rulemaking on how the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the nation’s preeminent environmental law, applies to federal ocean fisheries management.

Pew Environment Group Welcomes European Parliament's Support to Fight Illegal, Destructive Fishing Practices

Tue, 20 May 2008 19:40:00 GMT

Last night the Fisheries Committee of the European Parliament overwhelmingly voted to support the European Commission's proposal for a regulation to prevent, deter and eliminate illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing.

Industrial Herring Trawlers Threaten New England's Oceans

Wed, 21 May 2008 20:10:00 GMT

A report released today by the Herring Alliance exposes a threat to New England's coastal waters that has gone largely unnoticed in recent decades: the mismanagement of the commercial Atlantic herring industry.

Out of Balance: Industrial Fishing and the Threat to Our Ocean

Wed, 21 May 2008 21:20:00 GMT

This report exposes a threat to New England's coastal waters that has gone largely unnoticed for too long: the mismanagement of our Atlantic herring resource.

Pew Environment Group Welcomes European Parliament’s Strong Stance on Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing

Thu, 05 Jun 2008 19:40:00 GMT

Uta Bellion, Director of the EU Marine Programme of the Pew Environment Group issued this statement following today's plenary session of the European Parliament where Members endorsed in a simple vote a report by Marie-Hélène Aubert, Member of the Fisheries Committee, on the European Commission's proposed Council Regulation to prevent, deter and eliminate illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing.

Mediterranean Sharks Are in Steep Decline

Wed, 11 Jun 2008 19:30:00 GMT

Sharks in the Mediterranean Sea have declined by more than 97 percent in number and “catch weight” over the last 200 years, according to a new study released in the journal Conservation Biology by marine scientists from Dalhousie University in Canada and the Environmental Protection Agency in Italy.

Scientists Find Whales Innocent of Global Decline in Fisheries

Tue, 24 Jun 2008 13:50:00 GMT

The argument that great whales are behind declining fish stocks is completely without scientific foundation, leading researchers and conservation organizations said today as the International Whaling Commission opened its 60th meeting in Santiago, Chile.

Who’s Eating All the Fish? Debunking the Food Security Rationale for Culling Cetaceans

Tue, 24 Jun 2008 16:15:00 GMT

In response to the global fisheries crisis, characterized by falling abundances of resource species, falling catches, increasing habitat destruction, and extremely high subsidies, the advocates of whaling have been advancing a new rationale for hunting of marine cetaceans.

Pew Environment Group Applauds EU Fisheries Ministers on Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing (IUU) Progress

Tue, 24 Jun 2008 19:35:00 GMT

European Union fisheries ministers today reached agreement in principle on the European Commission's proposal for a Council Regulation to prevent, deter and eliminate illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing. Earlier this month, the Commission's proposal received strong endorsement from the European Parliament.

Statement of Joshua Reichert, Pew Environment Group, on the Shark Conservation Act of 2008

Tue, 08 Jul 2008 19:20:00 GMT

Joshua Reichert, managing director of the Pew Environment Group, today issued the following statement in response to the House of Representatives’ vote on H.R. 5741, the Shark Conservation Act of 2008.

Statement of Lee Crockett, Director, Federal Fisheries Policy, Pew Environment Group, on National Marine Fisheries Meeting

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 20:35:00 GMT

Lee Crockett, director of Federal Fisheries Policy at the Pew Environment Group, today issued the following statement in response to the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) meeting on proposed rules governing annual catch limits.

New Rules Could Save Our Fish

Wed, 16 Jul 2008 17:50:00 GMT

Located on the far northeastern tip of Newfoundland, a three-hour ferry ride from the nearest town, lies the small fishing village of Great Harbour Deep.

Administration Receives Roughly 200,000 Comments Opposing Its Fisheries Proposal

Tue, 12 Aug 2008 20:30:00 GMT

The Pew Environment Group today joined 80 congressional leaders, hundreds of scientists and environmental and fishing organizations, and nearly 200,000 members of the general public in urging the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) to rewrite its proposed fisheries rule that would undercut the nation’s bedrock environmental law, the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).

Playing Shell Games with Sea Turtles

Thu, 28 Aug 2008 17:45:00 GMT

Sea turtles, despite the best efforts of conservationists, are still in peril; all seven species are listed under the Endangered Species Act. The most at risk is the Kemp's ridley, which has about 7,000 nesting females, down from 42,000 in 1947.

Statement on the Latest Stock Assessment of New England Groundfish Populations

Thu, 04 Sep 2008 20:25:00 GMT

Peter Baker, manager of the Pew Environment Group’s New England Fisheries Campaign, today issued the following statement in response to the most recent stock assessment of New England groundfish (including cod, haddock and flounder) from the Third Groundfish Assessment Review Meeting.

Pew Environment Group Welcomes Commissioner Joe Borg's Launch of a Full Review of the Common Fisheries Policy

Fri, 19 Sep 2008 19:35:00 GMT

Uta Bellion, Director of the EU Marine Programme of the Pew Environment Group, issued this statement in response to Commissioner Borg's proposal on Wednesday for a full review of the Common Fisheries Policy.

Statement on the Close of Comment Period for the National Marine Fisheries Service's Annual Catch Limit Proposed Rule

Mon, 22 Sep 2008 20:25:00 GMT

Lee Crockett, director of Federal Fisheries Policy at the Pew Environment Group, today issued the following statement in response to the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) closing its comment period on its annual catch limit proposed rule.

Pew Environment Group Commends Fisheries Ministers' Move to End Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing in EU Waters

Mon, 29 Sep 2008 19:30:00 GMT

European Union fisheries ministers today adopted a regulation to prevent illegal, unregulated and unreported (IUU) fishing.

Sectors Could Be Last Chance to Save Fishery

Mon, 06 Oct 2008 16:25:00 GMT

Management of New England's traditional cod and groundfish fishery is at a crossroads.

Council's Change Offers Hope to Region's Fishermen

Mon, 03 Nov 2008 17:10:00 GMT

With the support of many forward-thinking commercial fishing organizations, the industry’s regional governing body, the New England Fishery Management Council, recently sent a clear signal that New England will move away from the current failed fisheries management system in favor of a structure that can rebuild fish stocks and bring profitability back to the region’s cod and groundfish fleet.

Statement from Gerald Leape, Salmon Aquaculture Reform Campaign, Pew Environment Group, in Response to the New York Times Article on Sea Lice on British Columbia Salmon

Tue, 04 Nov 2008 17:40:00 GMT

Gerald Leape of the Pew Environment Group today issued the following statement in response to an article published in the New York Times on sea lice and farmed salmon in British Columbia. Alexandra Morton is a researcher studying the impacts of sea lice on wild salmon populations.

Costs of Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing in EU Fisheries

Tue, 04 Nov 2008 19:35:00 GMT

Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing is a serious threat to fisheries sustainability in EU fisheries, and worldwide.

Stopping Illegal, Unregulated and Unreported (IUU) Fishing Could Create Over 27,000 More Jobs in the EU

Tue, 04 Nov 2008 20:30:00 GMT

According to research released today by the Pew Environment Group, more than 27,000 new jobs could be created in the European Union (EU) through the elimination of Illegal, Unregulated and Unreported (IUU) fishing.

Pew Environment Group Welcomes Commission's Control Regulation Proposal

Fri, 14 Nov 2008 15:15:00 GMT

Uta Bellion, Director of the EU Marine Programme of the Pew Environment Group, issued the following statement today in response to the European Commission's proposal for a more effective control system to strengthen and augment the current range of measures intended to limit illegal fishing in EU waters and by EU vessels.

Groups Urge Office of Management and Budget to Stop Last Minute Rush to Finalize Environmental Rules

Wed, 10 Dec 2008 21:20:00 GMT

A coalition of national environmental groups today urged the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), the agency responsible for overseeing the federal rulemaking process, to stop finalizing rules that would significantly weaken bedrock environmental protections that the agency classifies as not "economically significant."

Pew Forms Whales Commission to Help Break International Whaling Commission Impasse

Thu, 11 Dec 2008 14:40:00 GMT

To help bring an end to a longstanding stalemate over whaling, the Pew Environment Group is establishing the Pew Whales Commission, an international panel of independent experts that will meet in Lisbon, Portugal, in two months to identify means for building consensus among the members of the International Whaling Commission (IWC).

EU Ministers Act to Protect Angel Sharks and Endangered Rays

Fri, 19 Dec 2008 20:20:00 GMT

Late word that EU Fisheries Ministers agreed today to fully protect four highly endangered shark and ray species helped to ease conservationists’ dismay over the adoption of excessive 2009 quotas for severely overfished spurdog and porbeagle sharks.

Bush Administration to Withdraw Controversial Environmental Review Proposal

Fri, 19 Dec 2008 21:15:00 GMT

The Bush administration has decided to withdraw a proposed National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) rule before it leaves office that would have given more control over environmental reviews to the fishing industry while limiting the public’s ability to participate in key decisions impacting the oceans.

Preliminary Comments on Proposal for a Community Control System to Comply with the Common Fisheries Policy

Thu, 01 Jan 2009 18:50:00 GMT

The Pew Environment Group generally welcomes the Commission’s proposal as it includes major improvements on existing measures as well as additional tools to enhance compliance with the CFP, by both Member States and various actors in the fisheries sector along the chain of production.

Statement of Peter Baker, Pew Environment Group, on the National Marine Fisheries Service Interim Groundfish Management Rule for the 2009 Fishing Year

Wed, 14 Jan 2009 15:40:00 GMT

Peter Baker, manager of the Pew Environment Group's End Overfishing in New England campaign, today issued the following statement in response to the National Marine Fisheries Service announcement of its interim rule for managing groundfish (including cod, haddock and flounder) in New England for the 2009 fishing year.

Statement of Lee Crockett, Director, Federal Fisheries Policy, Pew Environment Group, on the Bush Administration Finalizing the National Marine Fisheries Service’s Annual Catch Limit Rule

Thu, 15 Jan 2009 21:10:00 GMT

Lee Crockett, director of Federal Fisheries Policy at the Pew Environment Group, today issued the following statement in response to the National Marine Fisheries Service finalizing its annual catch limit rule.

Turning the Page: Bringing Whale Conservation into the 21st Century

Fri, 23 Jan 2009 20:25:00 GMT

Created in 1949 pursuant to the entry into force of the 1946 International Convention for the Regulation of Whaling (ICRW), the International Whaling Commission (IWC) will turn 60 in 2009.

Policy Guide for the Pew Whales Commission

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 21:55:00 GMT

This Policy Guide was prepared by the Secretariat of the Pew Environment Group, to assist the Chair and the members of the Pew Whales Commission.

Pew Environment Group Statement on Council Vote Allowing Aquaculture in Federal Waters

Wed, 28 Jan 2009 17:35:00 GMT

Andrea Kavanagh, manager of the Salmon Aquaculture Reform Campaign at the Pew Environment Group, today issued the following statement in response to the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council’s vote on open ocean aquaculture.

Control Fishing of Grouper, Snapper

Wed, 28 Jan 2009 18:10:00 GMT

Floridians love grouper and snapper. We ought to. Our commercial fishermen rely on these fish to pay the bills, and recreational fishermen bring tourism dollars from near and far to catch them.

Statement on New Red Snapper Fishing Season In Gulf Of Mexico

Thu, 05 Feb 2009 17:15:00 GMT

Holly Binns, Project Manager for the Pew Environment Group’s Campaign to End Overfishing in the Southeast, issued the following statement today about the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission’s vote to change state fishing rules so the current mid-April through October red snapper fishing season in state waters is consistent with federal rules and the June through September season in federal waters.

U.S. FDA Reports Show Unapproved Chemicals Used by Largest Chilean Salmon Farms

Thu, 05 Feb 2009 17:35:00 GMT

The Pew Environment Group recently acquired documents from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) revealing that three Chilean salmon farming companies, including the two largest producers of farmed salmon, used a number of drugs not approved by the U.S. government.

United States Protects America’s Arctic From Industrial Fishing

Thu, 05 Feb 2009 18:55:00 GMT

The North Pacific Fishery Management Council (NPFMC) voted today to prevent the expansion of industrial fishing into all U.S. waters north of the Bering Strait for the foreseeable future to limit stress on ocean ecosystems in light of the dramatic impacts of global climate change in the Arctic.

Sharks Get a Lifeline Through New EU Action Plan

Thu, 05 Feb 2009 20:15:00 GMT

The Shark Alliance is celebrating today’s release of the European Commission’s Plan of Action for the Conservation of Sharks which sets the stage for sweeping improvements in European Union (EU) shark fishing and protection policies.

New England Fisheries at Critical Crossroads

Sun, 08 Feb 2009 17:25:00 GMT

Once there was such an abundance of cod, haddock and flounder in the waters just off our shores that as the saying goes, "you could walk across Cape Cod Bay on the backs of cod." New England was built on fisheries. Those days, however, are long gone.

Chair's Summary of the Pew Whales Commission

Tue, 10 Feb 2009 22:05:00 GMT

The Commission meeting was the third such event organized by the Pew Environment Group.

Pew Whales Commission Calls for Ministers to Break Whaling Wall

Wed, 11 Feb 2009 14:35:00 GMT

The Pew Whales Commission, a high level body of eminent diplomats, judges, lawyers, scientists and former Ministers, today called for government ministers to resolve the whaling stalemate.

Protecting the Arctic Marine Ecosystem

Mon, 16 Feb 2009 19:45:00 GMT

Some of the most fragile and productive fishing grounds in America received a possible respite earlier this month in a precedent-setting development that could prove critical to the United States and the world.

Red Snapper Off the Menu? Atlantic Numbers Plunge

Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:10:00 GMT

Remember the old photographs of fishermen proudly posed next to red snapper just as tall as they were? Those days are long gone.

Six-Month Snapper Fishing Ban Approved for South Atlantic

Thu, 05 Mar 2009 17:10:00 GMT

Federal fisheries managers voted 7 to 6 today to suspend all red snapper fishing in the south Atlantic from Florida to North Carolina – a significant move that would help the overfished snapper but could mean changes for tourist fishing trips and commercial fisheries.

Pew Environment Group Statement on Red Snapper Fishing Moratorium in the South Atlantic

Thu, 05 Mar 2009 17:10:00 GMT

Holly Binns, Project Manager for the Pew Environment Group’s Campaign to End Overfishing in the Southeast, issued the following statement today about the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council’s 7 to 6 vote to halt red snapper fishing for six months, with an optional six-month extension, in the South Atlantic from North Carolina to Florida.

Pew Environment Group Urges Strong Enforcement in Mid-Atlantic of New Rules on Overfishing

Mon, 09 Mar 2009 15:10:00 GMT

The Pew Environment Group today called upon the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council to diligently implement important new federal requirements designed to prevent overfishing and rebuild depleted fish populations.

Pew and WWF Lead Call for Stricter Controls to Combat Illegal Fishing

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 19:15:00 GMT

At a workshop organised by the Pew Environment Group and WWF France today the renowned marine scientist Daniel Pauly, representatives of the French government, the fishing industry, the European Commission, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and civil society highlighted the importance of strengthening fisheries control to combat the plague of illegal fishing.

Regional Governance: Making it Work for Fisheries and the Environment

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 18:10:00 GMT

Report from the Madrid Workshop held on March 31, 2009, to highlight the importance of strengthening fisheries control by WWF and OCEAN2012.

Pew Cautiously Welcomes the Fisheries Committee's Vote on EU Fleet

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 19:05:00 GMT

Uta Bellion, director of the Pew Environment Group’s EU Marine Programme, issued the following statement in response to the European Parliament’s Fisheries Committee’s vote today in favor of a proposal for a more effective control system of the EU fleet.

Pew Calls for Stricter Controls to Combat Illegal Fishing and Reduce Overcapacity in the European Fishing Fleet

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 19:10:00 GMT

Today a workshop in Madrid organised by the Pew Environment Group highlighted the urgent need to strengthen fisheries control in order to combat frequent illegal fishing by the EU fleet, including Spain’s.

Pew Statement on the National Marine Fisheries Service Final Interim Rule for Groundfish Management During the 2009 Fishing Year

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 14:40:00 GMT

Peter Baker, manager of Pew Environment Group's New England Fisheries campaign, today issued the following statement in response to the National Marine Fisheries Service announcement of its Final Interim Rule for managing groundfish (including cod, haddock and flounder) in New England for the 2009 fishing year.

Pew Urges International Leaders to Recommit to Protecting Southern Ocean Food Chain

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 19:40:00 GMT

On the eve of a historic 11-day meeting celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Antarctic Treaty, the Pew Environment Group encouraged diplomats, polar scientists and non-governmental organizations to redouble their efforts to protect polar regions from the impact of climate change.

Pew Environment Group, Ocean Conservation Coalition Urges Congress to Oppose Fisheries Legislation

Tue, 07 Apr 2009 15:10:00 GMT

The Pew Environment Group and 44 national, regional and state conservation groups today pressed congressional leaders to oppose “The Flexibility in Rebuilding American Fisheries Act of 2009,” saying the legislation would allow overexploitation of vulnerable fish populations.

Protecting Antarctica's Ecosystem

Tue, 07 Apr 2009 15:50:00 GMT

In 1959, a dozen nations agreed on the peaceable use of the Antarctic subcontinent "forever" and "in the interests of all mankind"—a landmark pact that created the Antarctic Treaty System. This agreement marked the first cooperation between the United States and the Soviet Union during the Cold War.

Pew Congratulates the European Parliament for Voting to Enhance EU Fleet Control

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 19:05:00 GMT

Uta Bellion, director of the Pew Environment Group’s EU Marine Programme, issued the following statement in response to the European Parliament’s vote today in favour of stronger control of the EU fleet.

Pew Encouraged by the Commission’s Common Fisheries Policy Green Paper

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 19:05:00 GMT

Uta Bellion, director of the Pew Environment Group’s EU Marine Programme, issued the following statement today in response to the publication of the European Commission’s Green Paper for a reformed Common Fisheries Policy (CFP).

Pew Applauds New Senate Bill Mandating Shark Conservation as Europe Fisheries Ministers Respond to EU Shark Plan

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 19:15:00 GMT

The Pew Environment Group today applauded Senator John Kerry’s (D-MA) introduction of the Shark Conservation Act of 2009 (companion of legislation introduced in the House by Rep. Madeline Bordallo of Guam) on the day before the EU Fisheries Ministers consider a new Plan of Action for Sharks that covers all European Union Member States’ waters.

Pew Environment Group Calls for a Crackdown on Unapproved Drug Use by Salmon Farms

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 16:30:00 GMT

Citing widespread evidence of unapproved drug use on salmon farms, the Pew Environment Group today pressed the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to expand testing on farmed salmon imports from Canada, Norway and the United Kingdom (Scotland and Ireland).

EU Fisheries Ministers React to Shark Plan

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 19:15:00 GMT

The EU Council of Fisheries Ministers, expressing concern that fishing is adversely affecting shark populations and ecosystems, today officially welcomed the European Commission’s Plan of Action for Sharks.

Pew Report Finds New Management Plan Would Increase Economic Value of Groundfish Industry

Wed, 06 May 2009 14:35:00 GMT

The New England groundfish fishery would be more economically and environmentally sound if the system used to manage the activities of commercial fishermen was changed from regulations based on “days-at-sea” to annual catch limits, according to a report released today by the Pew Environment Group.

The Economic Case for a New Approach to Fisheries Management in New England

Wed, 06 May 2009 15:50:00 GMT

New England’s economy was built on the teeming fishing grounds off its shores, turning the region into an international powerhouse by the eighteenth century.

A Better Fishing System

Mon, 18 May 2009 16:20:00 GMT

New England's fisheries feed our region's cash flow and provide dinner for our tables. But by most measures the current management system of this vital industry has been a failure, and hasn't adequately protected the marine ecosystem nor promoted a profitable fishing industry.

Pure Salmon Campaign Urges Cermaq to Protect Wild Salmon, Relocate Salmon Farms

Mon, 18 May 2009 16:30:00 GMT

Beginning today and running for the next 10 days, members of the Pure Salmon Campaign, an international coalition advocating for higher standards for farm raised salmon, will meet with a variety of Norwegian stakeholders to provide first-hand accounts of the environmental threats linked to salmon farming.

Pure Salmon Campaign Calls on Marine Harvest to Reform Environmental Performance

Mon, 25 May 2009 16:25:00 GMT

Members of the Pure Salmon Campaign coalition, a diverse group of stakeholders from key farmed salmon production and consumption nations including Canada, Chile, Scotland, Ireland and the United States, urge Marine Harvest to eliminate its destructive environmental impacts by separating farmed fish from wild fish populations and finding new sources for fish feed.

Pew Supports Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council’s Efforts to End Overfishing

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 15:05:00 GMT

The Pew Environment Group today commended the Mid-Atlantic Council on its initial step toward implementing new federal requirements designed to end overfishing and rebuild depleted fish populations through the application of annual catch limits and accountability measures.

A Guide to Fisheries Stock Assessment

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 20:15:00 GMT

Fishery managers have a range of goals. They strive to maintain healthy fish populations and a healthy fishing industry while still preserving vital recreational communities.

Understanding Federal Fishery Management

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 20:20:00 GMT

Many members of the fishing community, frustrated by unwanted regulation, wonder why government officials have the right (or the nerve) to tell them how much fish they can catch, where and when they can catch it, and how they can catch it.

South Atlantic: A Primer on the SEDAR Stock Assessment Process

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 20:30:00 GMT

SEDAR (Southeast Data, Assessment and Review) is the cooperative program through which stock assessments of Council managed fisheries resources in the Southeastern United States are developed and reviewed.

Annual Catch Limits Reinforced by Fishery Closure Provisions: Essential for Ending Overfishing in New England

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 17:25:00 GMT

A report by John D. Crawford, PhD, Pew Environment Group & Boston University Marine Program

Poll Shows Strong Support for a New Management System for Groundfish

Mon, 08 Jun 2009 14:30:00 GMT

The Pew Environment Group released today the results of a public opinion survey conducted with voters in Maine and Massachusetts, which showed that voters overwhelmingly support a new management system for the groundfish (cod, flounder, haddock) that have been a cornerstone of New England’s economy for centuries.

New Coalition to Make Big Splash for Healthy European Fisheries

Tue, 09 Jun 2009 19:00:00 GMT

OCEAN2012, a new coalition dedicated to transforming European fisheries policy to prevent over-fishing and enhance human well-being was launched yesterday.

Watching Whalers and Whales in Madeira

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 19:00:00 GMT

After a year of meetings and conversations, a special working group of the International Whaling Commission (IWC) charged with solving the Gordian knot of whale conservation will officially request another year of work.

Pew Applauds New Sector Management to Rebuild Cod and Flounder Populations

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 14:25:00 GMT

The Pew Environment Group commends the New England Fishery Management Council for its hard work in shepherding New England’s 400-year old groundfish industry into a new era of management.

Pew and EU Transparency Launch Fishsubsidy.org

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 18:55:00 GMT

The Pew Environment Group and EU Transparency today launched fishsubsidy.org, a Web site which presents detailed data of the European fisheries subsidies paid between 1994 and 2006.

Pew Will Push Shark Conservation at World Fisheries Meeting

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 19:05:00 GMT

The Pew Environment Group today called for stronger shark conservation measures worldwide as a new report by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classifies 35 out of 64 known pelagic shark and related ray species around the world as threatened or near threatened with extinction.

Pew Finds Member States’ Overcapacity Reporting Insufficient

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 18:50:00 GMT

According to research published today by the Pew Environment Group and the Institute for European Environmental Policy (IEEP), EU Member States are not fully complying with their legal obligation to assess annually their effort to reach a sustainable balance between the capacity to catch fish and the fish available.

Pew Brings Survivors to Congress to Seek Protections for Sharks that Attacked Them

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 19:00:00 GMT

Today, nine shark "attack" victims from around the nation were brought to Washington, DC by the Pew Environment Group to promote the Shark Conservation Act of 2009 (S. 850/H.R. 81), legislation which would strengthen the ban on shark finning in U.S. waters and encourage shark conservation programs around the world.

Overcapacity - What Overcapacity?

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 19:30:00 GMT

An evaluation of Member States reporting on efforts to achieve a sustainable balance between capacity and fishing opportunities in 2007.

New Pew Study Shows Rebuilding Depleted Mid-Atlantic Fish Populations Can Generate Billions of Dollars for Coastal Communities

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 15:05:00 GMT

A report released today by the Pew Environment Group reveals significant potential financial benefits of rebuilding four fish species in the Mid-Atlantic: summer flounder, black sea bass, butterfish and bluefish.

Investing in Our Future: The Economic Case for Rebuilding Mid-Atlantic Fish Populations

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 15:20:00 GMT

Rebuilding depleted fish populations must be a priority, both for the health of our ocean ecosystems and our coastal communities. The Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, the primary law that governs our ocean fisheries, supports this by mandating an end to overfishing and rebuilding depleted fish populations within 10 years, if biologically possible.

Statement on Representative Mica’s Red Snapper Legislation

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 16:05:00 GMT

Holly Binns, Project Manager for the Pew Environment Group’s Campaign to End Overfishing in the Southeast, issued the following statement today in response to Rep. John Mica’s (R-Fla.) new legislation that would block a moratorium federal fisheries managers initially approved in March temporarily halting red snapper fishing from North Carolina to Florida.

Arctic Shipping: Stormy Seas or Smooth Sailing

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 18:20:00 GMT

The dog days of summer slow down the pace of life for many of us, but it's the busy season in the Arctic. The Inuit people who inhabit the top of the globe in Alaska, Canada, Russia and Greenland are out on the land and ice, camping, hunting, fishing and visiting family. Meanwhile, annual supply ships visit Arctic communities, bringing next year's provisions before the ocean freezes again.

Statement on the Hilborn-Worm Study on Rebuilding Global Fisheries Published in 'Science'

Fri, 31 Jul 2009 19:35:00 GMT

Rebecca Goldburg, director of Marine Science at the Pew Environment Group, issued the following statement today in response to a paper published in the journal Science.

Statement on New Arctic Policy Legislation

Tue, 04 Aug 2009 17:45:00 GMT

Conservation groups welcomed the Arctic policy legislation introduced into Congress by U.S. Senator Mark Begich which is aimed at helping Alaska and the U.S. better adapt to the economic and environmental challenges posed by rapid climate change.

Pew Commends Landmark U.S. Decision to Protect Arctic from Large-Scale Commercial Fishing

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 17:45:00 GMT

The Pew Environment Group applauds the Obama administration's landmark decision today to place a moratorium on commercial fishing in virtually the entire Arctic Ocean under U.S. jurisdiction.

Pew Statement on New International Treaty to Address Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing

Thu, 27 Aug 2009 18:05:00 GMT

Stefan Flothmann, the Pew Environment Group’s International Ocean Governance Director, today issued the following statement in response to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)’s members/Technical Consultation completing a treaty on port State measures to prevent, deter and eliminate illegal, unregulated and unreported (IUU) fishing.

Given Enough Time, Overfished Red Snapper Can Rebound

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 17:10:00 GMT

Would you pick fruit from an orchard before it’s ripe? Probably not. We all know the best reward comes from patiently waiting for nature to finish its work.

Pew Statement on Open-Ocean Aquaculture in the Gulf of Mexico

Thu, 03 Sep 2009 16:20:00 GMT

Christopher Mann, senior officer at the Pew Environment Group, today issued the following statement in response to NOAA’s approval of a plan to authorize industrial-scale aquaculture in the Gulf of Mexico.

Sound Science Should Guide Gulf Fishing Limits

Sun, 06 Sep 2009 17:05:00 GMT

The question facing federal fishery managers is how many fish can be taken from the Gulf of Mexico without harming species and unbalancing the ecosystem.

Stanford Study: Half of the Fish Consumed Globally is Now Raised on Farms

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 16:20:00 GMT

Aquaculture, once a fledgling industry, now accounts for 50 percent of the fish consumed globally, according to a new report by an international team of researchers.

Last Chance for the Atlantic Bluefin Tuna?

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 18:50:00 GMT

The highest level of marlin bycatch in the U.S. is taken by U.S. pelagic longline vessels in the Gulf of Mexico targeting yellowfin tuna.

Environmental NGOs Criticise Lack of Public Participation and Transparency of Spanish Government in World Fisheries Ministerial Conference

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 19:45:00 GMT

NGOs committed to the sustainable use and conservation of fisheries resources are concerned with the lack of transparency and communication of the Spanish Minister of the Environment, Rural and Marine Affairs, Elena Espinosa concerning preparations for the 5th World Conference of Fisheries Ministers in Bayona, Spain, next week.

Conservation Community Sends a Strong Message to NMFS: 'Protect Atlantic Bluefin Tuna, Marlins, and Sailfish.'

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 19:10:00 GMT

Officials with the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) were extremely busy last week, fielding more than 57,000 comments they received opposing a proposal that further incentivizes pelagic longliners to target Atlantic bluefin tuna in the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, the fish’s only known western Atlantic spawning area.

Victim Staunchly Defends the Species

Sat, 12 Sep 2009 19:20:00 GMT

Sharks rarely attack people. The odds of a shark bite are roughly one in every 11.5 million times a person visits a beach, according to the International Shark Attack File. Unfortunately, I became one of the unlucky few, five years ago, when I was bitten by a shark while wading in waist-deep water, just 50 feet offshore of Florida's Cape Canaveral National Seashore.

Scientists Urge Halt to Offshore Oil and Gas in the U.S. Arctic

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 17:40:00 GMT

More than 400 scientists from the U.S. and 20 other countries have signed a strongly worded letter urging the Obama administration to defer offshore oil and gas development in the U.S. Arctic Ocean until research can adequately assess potential risks to fragile marine ecosystems.

Scientific Understanding Must Precede Oil and Gas Development in the U.S. Arctic Ocean

Fri, 18 Sep 2009 18:40:00 GMT

America's Arctic has long been a place of myth and dream, where the Inupiat Eskimos have thrived, explorers endured and artists found inspiration.

Pew Commends First International Shark Sanctuary Announced by Pacific Island Nation of Palau at United Nations General Assembly

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 18:55:00 GMT

Matt Rand, director of the Pew Environment Group’s Global Shark Conservation Campaign, issued the following statement in response to the United Nations General Assembly address by Johnson Toribiong, president of the Pacific island country of Palau.

Shark Alliance Welcomes Spanish Protections for Threatened Sharks

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 16:15:00 GMT

The Shark Alliance is welcoming Spain’s new ban on fishing for 11 species of hammerhead and thresher sharks, most of which are classified as threatened.

Protect the Atlantic Bluefin Tuna

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 18:45:00 GMT

The Obama administration has indicated that when it comes to international agreements, it's giving high priority to arms control, human rights, law enforcement, investment and maritime law. With respect to the environment, it has listed climate change, plant genetic resources and persistent organic pollutants, among other issues.

UK Acts to End Shark Finning

Sun, 11 Oct 2009 16:05:00 GMT

The Shark Trust marks European Shark Week 2009 by heralding a UK decision to lead in the battle against shark “finning” (slicing off a shark’s fins and discarding the body at sea) with a complete ban on removal of shark fins at sea.

Pew Laments Lack of U.S. Leadership to Protect Atlantic Bluefin Tuna at CITES

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 15:40:00 GMT

Joshua Reichert, managing director of the Pew Environment Group, today issued the following statement on the United States’ failure to co-sponsor a proposal for consideration by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) that would protect Atlantic bluefin tuna.

Pew Welcomes the EU Council of Ministers’ Overdue Agreement to Toughen Fisheries Control

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 18:50:00 GMT

Uta Bellion, director of the Pew Environment Group’s EU Marine Programme, issued the following statement in response to the EU Council of Fisheries Ministers’ agreement in the early hours of this morning to toughen control of the EU fleet.

Pew Urges Antarctic Fisheries Commission to Protect Whales, Penguins, Seals and Krill

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 19:25:00 GMT

The Pew Environment Group today called on the world’s governing body for conserving Antarctic marine life to geographically spread out krill catches in the Southern Ocean.

Design Matters: Making Catch Shares Work

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 16:20:00 GMT

Catch shares are fishery management programs that allocate fishing privileges in the form of a specific portion of the total annual catch quota.

Pew Cautions Against Unregulated Fish Farms in U.S. Federal Waters

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 17:25:00 GMT

During this year’s Global Week of Action, a week devoted to farmed salmon awareness, the Pew Environment Group today raised concern about the creation of fish farms in U.S. waters without adequate uniform national aquaculture standards in place.

Did We Save the Whales? Japan Still Harvesting Thousands Annually

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 20:00:00 GMT

If you thought we saved the whales in the 1980s, think again. Although supposedly rescued by a 1986 moratorium on commercial whaling, they’re still struck by ships, caught in discarded nets, poisoned by pollution and harassed by the booming noise of underwater oil and gas exploration

Pew Environment Group Urges Stronger Action to Save Bluefin Tuna and Sharks, Regrets Failure of International Fisheries Commission

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 16:40:00 GMT

After meeting for ten days, the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) refused to end fishing for Atlantic bluefin tuna.

A Small Fish's Woes Threaten Eco-System

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 17:10:00 GMT

When fisheries managers meet this Tuesday through Thursday at the Hyatt Regency Hotel on Goat Island, in Newport, there’s going to be a lot riding on a very small fish.

Pew Encouraged by Council Decisions to Protect Atlantic Herring

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 21:00:00 GMT

The Pew Environment Group today praised the New England Fishery Management Council for playing it safe with the future of Atlantic herring.

Pew Calls for Countries to Implement Treaty to Stop Illegal Fishing

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 19:05:00 GMT

The Pew Environment Group today welcomed an announcement by the United Nation’s Food and Agriculture Organization that the new treaty to address illegal fishing is open for signature and called on governments to ratify and implement this treaty.

Not Safe in the Water

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 20:20:00 GMT

When Peter Benchley wrote "Jaws," when Steven Spielberg turned it into a film more than 34 years ago, and when those of us who acted in it helped create the first summer blockbuster, nobody imagined the unintended consequences that would follow.

Statement on the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Approval of the South Atlantic Short-Term Red Snapper Fishing Moratorium

Thu, 03 Dec 2009 17:05:00 GMT

Holly Binns, manager of the Pew Environment Group’s Campaign to End Overfishing in the Southeast, issued the following statement today in response to the U.S. Department of Commerce Secretary’s approval of a six-month moratorium on red snapper fishing in federal South Atlantic waters from North Carolina to Florida.

Pew Disappointed at Obama Administration’s Approval of Chukchi Sea Oil Drilling

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 18:35:00 GMT

The federal Minerals Management Service today gave the green light to Shell Oil’s plan to drill exploratory wells in the ecologically rich waters of the Chukchi Sea off Alaska’s northwest coast next summer.

Port State Performance

Tue, 08 Dec 2009 20:40:00 GMT

Pew’s Port State Performance project consolidates six years of movement data on IUU-listed vessels, tracking their port visits globally to evaluate port State performance in combating illegal, unregulated and unreported (IUU). The final data and findings were uploaded on May 25th, 2010.

Pew Applauds NOAA for its Conservation-Minded Catch Shares Policy

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 15:25:00 GMT

Lee Crockett, director of Federal Fisheries Policy at the Pew Environment Group, today issued the following statement in response to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) release of its draft policy on the use of catch shares in federal fisheries.

Fishery Managers Approve Plan to Save Nine Species, Move Closer to Final Plan for Red Snapper

Fri, 11 Dec 2009 17:00:00 GMT

Holly Binns, manager for the Pew Environment Group's Campaign to End Overfishing in the Southeast, issued this statement today.

Pew Environment Group's Submission to the Consultation on CFP Reform

Fri, 11 Dec 2009 21:00:00 GMT

The Pew Environment Group’s European Marine Programme contribution to the consultation on the reform of the Common Fisheries Policy.

Leaders Offer Hope to End Whaling

Sun, 13 Dec 2009 20:05:00 GMT

If you thought we saved the whales in the 1980s, think again. Although supposedly rescued by a 1986 moratorium on commercial whaling, they're still struck by ships, caught in discarded nets, poisoned by pollution and harassed by the booming noise of underwater oil and gas exploration.

Environmental and Social Criteria for Allocating Access to Fisheries Resources

Tue, 15 Dec 2009 21:20:00 GMT

Report commissioned by the Pew Environment Group, on behalf of OCEAN2012, written by Chris Grieve, Executive Director, Meridian Prime. The report highlights environmental and social criteria that are successfully employed in allocating access to fisheries resources.

EU Ends Fisheries for Endangered Sharks

Wed, 16 Dec 2009 19:55:00 GMT

The Shark Alliance applauds the EU Council of Fisheries Ministers’ decision to end all fishing for porbeagle sharks and reduce by 90% fishing quotas for spurdog, in line with scientific advice and proposals from the European Commission.

Pew Statement on New Offshore Aquaculture Bill

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 17:10:00 GMT

Christopher Mann, senior officer at the Pew Environment Group, issued the following statement in response to legislation introduced late last night by Rep. Lois Capps (D-CA), H.R. 4363, establishing a regulatory framework for offshore aquaculture.

Domestic Economic Impacts of a CITES Appendix I Listing for Bluefin Tuna

Fri, 18 Dec 2009 19:45:00 GMT

This report examines what the economic impact would be on U.S. seafood markets, from fishermen to retailers, if bluefin tuna were listed among the most threatened creatures by the Convention on International Trade of Endangered Species (CITES). It explores the current market for bluefin in the United States, including landings, exports, imports and re‐exports.

Protecting Life in the Sea

Fri, 01 Jan 2010 21:50:00 GMT

Unrestrained impact of human activity is imposing fundamental, perhaps irreversible, changes on the world's oceans. This brochure examines the Pew Environment Group's work over the last 15 years and looking ahead to 2012, to increase public awareness and promote solutions through scientific research, public education and the promotion of strong conservation policies.

Preventing Damage in a Very Cold Place

Fri, 08 Jan 2010 19:35:00 GMT

Wedged between Alaska and Siberia, the Chukchi Sea is one of the most productive ocean ecosystems in the world. Its vast shallow sea floor and ice cover provide rich habitat for many species, including walrus, whales, polar bears and millions of seabirds.

OCEAN2012 Responds to the Fisheries Committee's Vote on Reform of Common Fisheries Policy

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 19:40:00 GMT

Uta Bellion, director of the Pew Environment Group's European Marine Programme and OCEAN2012 co-ordinator, issued the following statement responding to the European Parliament's Fisheries Committee's vote on an own initiative report on reform of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP).

Shark Alliance Delivers European Citizens’ Plea to Spain

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 19:45:00 GMT

Representatives from the Shark Alliance, an international shark conservation coalition, today delivered to Spanish authorities a petition signed by over 90,000 citizens from 16 European countries urging Spain to end its opposition to improving the EU ban on finning - cutting off a shark's fins and discarding its body at sea – and lead the EU toward a more effective finning regulation.

The Urgently Needed Reform of the Common Fisheries Policy

Thu, 28 Jan 2010 18:40:00 GMT

European seas are emptying of valuable fish - more than 80 percent of assessed fish stocks in EU waters are overfished and 30 percent are outside safe biological limits.

France Supports Bluefin Tuna Trade Prohibition Proposal, Unfortunately with Delayed Implementation

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 16:35:00 GMT

Susan Lieberman, director of international policy for the Pew Environment Group, issued the following statement today in response to a declaration from France of support for the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) proposal to prohibit international trade of Atlantic bluefin tuna.

Pew Environment Report Says Melting Arctic Could Cost $2.4 Trillion by 2050

Fri, 05 Feb 2010 18:30:00 GMT

The Pew Environment Group today released a report that for the first time quantifies the global cost of the Arctic’s declining ability to cool the climate, indicating that the rapid melting of the region could carry a minimum price tag of $2.4 trillion U.S. by 2050.

An Initial Estimate of the Cost of Lost Climate Regulation Services Due to Changes in the Arctic Cryosphere

Fri, 05 Feb 2010 21:00:00 GMT

Ice and snow are defining features of the Arctic. At no point in at least 800,000 years has the Arctic been without sea ice.

Pure Salmon Campaign, Canadian First Nations Leaders Urge Norway to Protect British Columbia’s Wild Salmon, Other Iconic Wildlife

Tue, 16 Feb 2010 17:20:00 GMT

At an event coinciding with the Norway - Canada Olympic hockey game, members of the Pure Salmon Campaign and several of British Columbia’s First Nations chiefs today called for the removal of Norwegian-owned salmon farms from Canadian waters.

Pew Says Proposed International Whaling Commission Compromise Fails to Secure a Future for Whales

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 14:30:00 GMT

Susan Lieberman, director of international policy for the Pew Environment Group, issued the following statement today in response to recent efforts to resolve the impasse at the International Whaling Commission.

Statement: European Commission Sidesteps Major Decision on Bluefin Tuna

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 16:30:00 GMT

Susan Lieberman, director of international policy for the Pew Environment Group, issued the following statement today in response to the European Commission’s failure to reach an unqualified decision on the proposal to prohibit international trade of Atlantic bluefin tuna at the upcoming meeting of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).

Protect the Bluefin Tuna

Sun, 28 Feb 2010 20:45:00 GMT

For avid anglers, few things in life can match the thrill of catching a bluefin tuna.

Pew Applauds the Obama Administration for Backing Global Trade Prohibition of Atlantic Bluefin Tuna, Urges International Support

Wed, 03 Mar 2010 16:25:00 GMT

The Pew Environment Group today praised the Obama administration for supporting the proposed CITES Appendix I listing for Atlantic bluefin tuna.

United Kingdom Poised to Designate World’s Largest Marine Reserve

Fri, 05 Mar 2010 15:50:00 GMT

Today, the Pew Environment Group praised the United Kingdom (U.K.) for taking one further step towards designating the world’s largest marine reserve.

Report Offers Criteria for Allocating Access to Fisheries Resources

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 15:05:00 GMT

A new report released today by OCEAN2012 and Meridian Prime highlights environmental and social criteria that are successfully employed in allocating access to fisheries resources.

Pew Applauds Maldives Indian Ocean Shark Sanctuary

Tue, 09 Mar 2010 19:40:00 GMT

In a move lauded by the Pew Environment Group the Maldives today declared its exclusive economic zone (EEZ), 90,000 square kilometers of the Indian Ocean, as a shark sanctuary free from all shark fishing and also banned all imports and exports of shark fins.

When Crime Pays: How the EU Subsidises Illegal Fishing

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 19:35:00 GMT

Fishsubsidy.org today publishes a list of 42 convictions of fishing vessel owners that have also received EU subsidies under the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP).

CITES Fails to Protect Atlantic Bluefin Tuna

Thu, 18 Mar 2010 15:25:00 GMT

Susan Lieberman, director of international policy for the Pew Environment Group, issued the following statement today in response to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) committee vote on Monaco’s proposal to prohibit international trade of Atlantic bluefin tuna.

Pew Launches Urgent Effort to Protect Bluefin Tuna in Gulf of Mexico

Tue, 23 Mar 2010 15:20:00 GMT

On Thursday, March 25 at 1 p.m. EDT, the Pew Environment Group will host a Web-based tele-press conference to detail its new campaign to protect bluefin tuna in its only known spawning area in the western Atlantic Ocean by prohibiting surface long-lining in the Gulf of Mexico.

Pew Applauds Vote Giving International Protections to Porbeagle Sharks

Tue, 23 Mar 2010 18:40:00 GMT

Government delegates attending the meeting of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) voted today to list porbeagle sharks in Appendix II of the treaty, but rejected protections for three other vulnerable shark species.

Commerce Trumps Science at CITES, Threatened Sharks and Bluefin Tuna Still at Risk

Fri, 26 Mar 2010 15:20:00 GMT

The 15th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) concluded without providing any trade protections whatsoever for severely depleted Atlantic bluefin tuna and four vulnerable species of sharks – scalloped hammerhead, oceanic white tip, porbeagle and spiny dogfish.

Pew Launches Urgent Effort to Protect Bluefin Tuna in the Gulf of Mexico

Fri, 26 Mar 2010 21:05:00 GMT

Protecting bluefin tuna in its only known spawning ground in the western Atlantic Ocean has taken on added urgency following last week's rejection of a global trade prohibition for the severely depleted species.

Pew Applauds Withdrawal of Bristol Bay from Oil Drilling and Cautious Approach for New U.S. Arctic Ocean Leasing

Wed, 31 Mar 2010 17:25:00 GMT

The Pew Environment Group today commended the Obama administration’s decision to withdraw Bristol Bay from its national offshore energy plan and proceed cautiously with new U.S. Arctic Ocean oil and gas leases.

Overfishing Exacerbated by EU Fisheries Subsidies

Wed, 31 Mar 2010 18:35:00 GMT

A study released today by the Poseidon Aquatic Resource and the Pew Environment Group finds that EU fisheries subsidies have failed to reduce fleet overcapacity, thus exerting fishing pressure on stocks at two to three times sustainable levels.

FIFG 2000-2006 Shadow Evaluation

Wed, 31 Mar 2010 18:45:00 GMT

This report assesses the environmental and social impacts of the Financial Instrument for Fisheries Guidance (FIFG), running from 2000 to 2006, using a range of quantitative and qualitative information. EU allocations for FIFG totalled €3.2 billion, of which Spain received nearly half. Member State contributions brought the total allocation of FIFG funding to €4.9 billion.

Pew Statement on Drilling in Georges Bank

Wed, 31 Mar 2010 20:00:00 GMT

Peter Baker, manager for the Pew Environment Group’s New England Fisheries Campaigns, issued the following statement today in response to the Obama administration’s policy announcement on offshore oil and gas drilling.

Pew Says Adjusted Compromise on Whaling Falls Short

Thu, 22 Apr 2010 13:30:00 GMT

Susan Lieberman, director of international policy for the Pew Environment Group, issued the following statement in response to the proposal released today by the Chair (Cristian Maquieira of Chile) and Vice-Chair (Anthony Liverpool, Antigua and Barbuda) of the International Whaling Commission (IWC).

Pure Salmon Campaign Joins 'Migration' to Help Protect British Columbia’s Wild Salmon

Thu, 22 Apr 2010 16:15:00 GMT

For the next two weeks, the Pure Salmon Campaign will join Alexandra Morton – renowned scientist, whale researcher and activist – and hundreds of other individuals as they journey 250 miles from one end of Vancouver Island to another.

Protecting Our Most Productive Fishery

Mon, 26 Apr 2010 18:15:00 GMT

President Barack Obama recently announced a halt to offshore oil and gas leasing in Alaska's ecologically rich Bristol Bay, a decision that should be applauded for temporarily eliminating a serious threat to these lucrative fishing grounds. But those who have been fighting for more than 25 years to protect these waters from drilling know that this is not enough. It is time to permanently protect the nation's most productive fishery.

Pure Salmon Campaign Urges Cermaq’s CEO Step Down, Hand Delivers Resignation Demand

Wed, 28 Apr 2010 16:10:00 GMT

The Pure Salmon Campaign today called for the resignation of Geir Isaksen, CEO of Cermaq, one of the world’s two largest producers of farmed salmon.

NGO Statement on the A Coruña Consultation on the Reform of the Common Fisheries Policy

Mon, 03 May 2010 15:25:00 GMT

We, the undersigning NGOs, consider the reform of the EU's Common Fisheries Policy crucially important: a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to correct the management failures that have caused the unprecedented depletion of fisheries resources, destruction of marine ecosystems and precarious situation of fishing dependent communities and their livelihoods we see today.

Good for Fish, Good for Fishermen

Mon, 03 May 2010 16:20:00 GMT

(Cape Cod Times) On Saturday, New England fishermen gained more flexibility to fish in ways that make business sense while allowing our ocean ecosystems to recover.

Rules Could Boost Fish Stocks

Fri, 07 May 2010 16:15:00 GMT

Starting May 1, most of New England’s ground-fishing fleet sailed under a promising new, science-based management plan called sector allocation. It could rebuild fish populations, help fishermen run their businesses more efficiently and profitably, and bolster fishing communities.

Pew Calls for Halt on New Oil Drilling Until Better Standards Are in Place

Tue, 11 May 2010 16:00:00 GMT

Joshua Reichert, managing director of the Pew Environment Group, issued the following statement today in response to this week’s Congressional hearings on the BP Deepwater Horizon disaster in the Gulf of Mexico.

Paul H. Earnshaw: River Herring Ravaged by Atlantic Bycatch

Fri, 14 May 2010 16:05:00 GMT

There is a small stream in Warwick called Buckeye Brook. Its two headwater ponds, Spring Green Pond and Warwick Pond, feed the brook’s 3.5-mile-long flow through a densely populated area. Thick forested banks provide buffer to protect the water from overheating as it finds its way to Narragansett Bay.

Pew Commends Commissioner Maria Damanaki's Firm Line on Fishing Limits but Tougher Action Still Needed

Mon, 17 May 2010 20:40:00 GMT

Uta Bellion, director of the Pew Environment Group’s EU Marine Programme, issued the following statement in response to the publication of the European Commission’s Communication on 2011 fishing opportunities in EU waters.

The Future of Oil and Water

Wed, 19 May 2010 19:40:00 GMT

The explosion and sinking of the Deepwater Horizon oil rig brings into sharp focus not only a tragic loss of life but also the fragmented and inadequate way in which we manage and protect the nation's critical marine resources and the fragile ocean environment. Scientifically sound and precautionary polices to reconcile the needs of safety, energy security, sustainable fisheries and environmental protection have become urgent.

Two Studies Show Loopholes and Gaps in High Seas Fisheries Management

Mon, 24 May 2010 18:00:00 GMT

As the United Nations meets to discuss the state of high seas fisheries management, two independent, peer-reviewed studies reveal that ineffective international management is undermining the future of high seas fisheries, fish populations and the health of marine ecosystems.

Pew Faults Marine Stewardship Council's Decision

Tue, 25 May 2010 19:10:00 GMT

The Pew Environment Group today criticized the decision by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) to certify Antarctic krill.

Ocean Science Series: Sharks - The State of the Science

Wed, 26 May 2010 16:55:00 GMT

Declines in population sizes of sharks, as much as 70–80 percent, have been reported globally. This review of the current scientific literature documents the number of sharks killed per year, the causes of this mortality and the impact on ecosystems after large predators are removed.

Preliminary Findings from a Gap Analysis

Wed, 26 May 2010 18:00:00 GMT

The Pew Environment Group is conducting a gap analysis to compare the port State measures established by ten Regional Fisheries Management Organizations (RFMOs) with the port State measures established by the FAO Port State Measures Agreement (PSMA).

Finding Sustainability: Recommendations to the U.N. Fish Stocks Review Conference

Wed, 26 May 2010 18:05:00 GMT

This session of the United Nations Fish Stocks Agreement (UNFSA) Review Conference should take strong and meaningful action to improve the functioning and accountability of regional fisheries management organizations (RFMOs) in order to ensure the sustainable management of high seas fisheries.

Port State Performance: Putting Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing on The Radar

Wed, 26 May 2010 18:15:00 GMT

Illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing is notorious for undermining efforts to manage fisheries sustainably and has detrimental environmental, social and economic consequences.

Pew Statement on Obama’s Arctic Drilling Decision

Thu, 27 May 2010 17:25:00 GMT

Marilyn Heiman, director of the Pew Environment Group’s U.S. Arctic Program, released the following statement in response to the Obama administration’s expected announcement today that any applications for exploratory drilling in the Arctic will be suspended until 2011.

Hooking the High Seas 'Fishing Pirates'

Tue, 01 Jun 2010 17:35:00 GMT

Tales of pirates have filled countless books and films for generations. Today, modern tales of piracy off the coast of East Africa have captured the world's attention.

Project Manager for Pew Environment Group: Plan Would Save Fish, Give Fishermen Jobs

Fri, 04 Jun 2010 17:05:00 GMT

The end of the line is approaching to finalize a proposal that could save the imperiled red snapper.

Pew Urges Thoughtful Approach to Catch Shares in Light of New Report on West Coast Trawl Fishery Proposal

Tue, 08 Jun 2010 14:20:00 GMT

The Pew Environment Group’s Lee Crockett, director of Federal Fisheries Policy, and Peter Baker, manager for New England Fisheries Campaigns, today commented on a new study by Ecotrust that found design concerns in the proposed West Coast trawl fishery catch share program. Support for this report was provided by the Pew Environment Group.

Pew Statement Regarding Vote on the Long-Term Red Snapper Recovery Plan

Wed, 09 Jun 2010 15:50:00 GMT

Holly Binns, manager of the Pew Environment Group’s Campaign to End Overfishing in the Southeast, issued the following statement today in response to the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council’s vote on the long-term red snapper recovery plan.

Pew Seeks Landmark Conservation Solutions at Historic International Whaling Commission Meeting

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 13:25:00 GMT

Efforts to finally bring an end to the impasse between pro-whaling and anti-whaling countries in the International Whaling Commission (IWC) will be the focus of the IWC’s Annual Meeting, opening in Agadir, Morocco, on Monday, June 21.

Pew Statement on Increase in Annual Catch Limits for Pollock

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Peter Baker, who manages the Pew Environment Group’s New England Fisheries Campaigns, today issued the following statement in response to the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) announcement that it would be raising the Annual Catch Limit for pollock by nearly 500%.

International Whaling Commission Fails to Find a Way Forward for Whales

Wed, 23 Jun 2010 13:25:00 GMT

Susan Lieberman, director of international policy for the Pew Environment Group, issued the following statement today in response to the International Whaling Commission’s (IWC) Annual Meeting concluding without any results from the three-year effort to reconcile the impasse between pro-whaling and anti-whaling countries.

Pew Applauds Senator Snowe, Nine of Her Colleagues for Introducing Coastal Jobs Creation Act

Mon, 28 Jun 2010 13:55:00 GMT

Lee Crockett, director of Federal Fisheries Policy at the Pew Environment Group, today commented on legislation introduced by Senators Olympia Snowe (R-ME), Frank Lautenberg (D-NJ), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Susan Collins (R-ME), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Barbara Boxer (D-CA), John Kerry (D-MA), Mark Begich (D-AK) and Jack Reed (D-RI) that economically supports fishermen and coastal communities while efforts to end overfishing and rebuild depleted U.S. fish populations are implemented.

Pew Welcomes the Commission’s Stance on EU Common Fisheries Policy Reform at Fisheries Council Meeting

Tue, 29 Jun 2010 20:50:00 GMT

Uta Bellion, director of the Pew Environment Group’s EU Marine Programme, issued the following statement in response to the conclusion of the EU’s Fisheries Council in Luxembourg which focused on the ongoing reform of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP).

Toward Improvement In Rebuilding Fisheries: Lessons from the United States

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 16:30:00 GMT

This report seeks to describe the process and pitfalls through the experience of the United States in enacting and amending legislation to manage its fisheries resources.

Statement on the Fishery Conservation Transition Act

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 15:40:00 GMT

Lee Crockett, director of federal fisheries policy for the Pew Environment Group, and Holly Binns, manager of Pew’s Campaign to End Overfishing in the Southeast, issued this joint statement today on Senator Bill Nelson’s (D-Fla.) legislation to weaken a key federal fishery law, the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, and delay plans to end overfishing and rebuild the severely depleted South Atlantic red snapper.

Saving Caribbean Fish

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 20:05:00 GMT

If you have ever enjoyed a stroll on the beach or snorkeled over the coral reefs, you can thank the parrotfish.

Pew Urges Congress to Plug the Leaks in Drilling Law Now

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 15:40:00 GMT

The Pew Environment Group today called on Congress and the administration to take decisive actions to prevent disasters like the Deepwater Horizon spill from occurring again and to ensure the restoration of the Gulf.

Stop Seismic Testing in Lancaster Sound

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 22:15:00 GMT

At the eastern edge of the Northwest Passage, two glacier-capped islands mark the entrance to one of the greatest ecosystems in the Northern Hemisphere.

Sharks Endangered by a Bowl of Soup

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 19:25:00 GMT

Few members of the animal kingdom have grabbed our imagination as much as sharks. From 1975's summer blockbuster "Jaws," to 2004's animated film "Shark Tale," these marvels of the deep have been a staple in U.S. pop culture -- a trend that continues as viewers this week watch the Discovery Channel's latest edition of "Shark Week."

Pew Environment Group on the Death of Former Senator Ted Stevens

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 20:05:00 GMT

Joshua S. Reichert, managing director of the Pew Environment Group, issued the following statement today on the death of former Senator Ted Stevens.

Pew Opposes Certification Proposal for Surface Longline Fishing

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 15:20:00 GMT

The Pew Environment Group today criticized a proposal asking the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) to certify as sustainable a fishery that threatens vulnerable marine species including bluefin tuna, blue marlin, short-fin mako sharks and loggerhead and leatherback sea turtles.

Oceans North Canada Praises Creation of Arctic's First Marine Protected Area

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 21:45:00 GMT

Oceans North Canada commends Prime Minister Stephen Harper for his announcement today about the creation of the Tarium Niryutait Marine Protected Area in the Beaufort Sea, the first such designation in Canada's Arctic.

Letter: Pew Responds to Our Comments About MSC Certification of South Atlantic Swordfish

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 17:45:00 GMT

In an August 19, 2010, editorial, (MSC slaps hand of Pew for email campaign against swordfish assessment) John Sackton relays and expands on concerns raised by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) about the Pew Environment Group.

The New Hampshire Coast Needs River and Sea Herring

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 16:05:00 GMT

Fisheries have been an important part of New Hampshire's heritage since enormous quantities of cod brought fishermen to the Isles of Shoals in the early 1600s. Now, few cod or fishermen remain, but fishing heritage is intrinsic to our regional character.

Statement on Vote on Plans to Save Caribbean Fish Species

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 15:30:00 GMT

Holly Binns, manager of the Pew Environment Group’s Campaign to End Overfishing in the Southeast, and Paul Chakroff, executive director of the St. Croix Environmental Association and member of the board of the Virgin Islands Conservation Society, issued the following statements today in response to the Caribbean Fishery Management Council’s vote on plans to end overfishing and enact new rules to place limits on catch of 35 species.

Pew Presses U.N. to 'Save the Sharks'

Mon, 13 Sep 2010 17:15:00 GMT

Shark attack survivors hailing from five countries are pushing the United Nations to adopt measures to protect sharks.

Pressure Mounts for EU Fisheries Commissioner to Put Environment First

Mon, 13 Sep 2010 18:25:00 GMT

Today OCEAN2012, the pan-European campaign to stop overfishing in Europe, handed over 28,500 signatures to European Fisheries and Maritime Affairs Commissioner, Maria Damanaki, calling on her to prioritise the health of the marine environment in the reform of the European Union’s Common Fisheries Policy (CFP).

The European Union is 'Failing in its Promise' to Make the Common Fisheries Policy More Transparent

Thu, 16 Sep 2010 20:10:00 GMT

European Union countries are failing in the promise to make the common fisheries policy more transparent, claims a new report from FishSubsidy.org.

Honduras and Palau Challenge the World to Save Sharks

Wed, 22 Sep 2010 16:55:00 GMT

Honduras and Palau, two countries that have stopped shark fishing in their waters, are urging the rest of the world to conserve the world’s dwindling shark populations or run the risk of losing the ocean’s top predator and throwing the marine food chain out of balance.

Letter: Correction to Article on Flounder Quotas

Tue, 28 Sep 2010 17:05:00 GMT

The article "Increased quotas prove flexibility works" (Aug. 26) misrepresents Pew's support for the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council's decision to increase the 2011 quota for summer flounder and the effectiveness of the current fisheries law itself

New England Fishery Management Council Should Take Time to Get Herring Policy Right

Thu, 30 Sep 2010 19:40:00 GMT

Peter Baker, manager of Pew Environment Group's Atlantic Herring campaign and director of the Herring Alliance, issued the following statement today in response to the New England Fishery Management Council's decision Tuesday to delay the final vote on new management measures for the Atlantic herring fishery.

A Melting Arctic Hits Home

Thu, 30 Sep 2010 22:05:00 GMT

As the Arctic melts due to climate change, its iconic marine mammals are feeling the heat.

Pew Says ‘Crystal Ball’ Science Cannot Save Bluefin Tuna

Fri, 08 Oct 2010 15:15:00 GMT

Fisheries scientists meeting this week in Madrid failed to recommend solid, scientifically-based catch limits to countries fishing for Atlantic bluefin tuna, one of the world’s most valuable and severely threatened marine species.

European Shark Week Opens With Call to “Focus on Finning”

Fri, 08 Oct 2010 16:55:00 GMT

The Shark Alliance, a coalition of more than 100 conservation, scientific and recreational organisations is marking the start of the fourth annual European Shark Week by calling on Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) to help strengthen the European Union’s ban on finning—the wasteful practice of slicing off a shark’s fins and discarding the carcass at sea.

Pew Pushes for Protection of Whales, Penguins, Seals and Krill

Thu, 21 Oct 2010 19:05:00 GMT

The Pew Environment Group’s Antarctic Krill Conservation Project (AKCP) urges the Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR) to require scientific observers on board all krill fishing vessels and to intensify efforts at data collection to reduce uncertainties when managing this fishery.

Finding Sustainability: Recommendations to the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT)

Fri, 22 Oct 2010 19:50:00 GMT

The ICCAT 17th Special Meeting of the Commission should take strong and meaningful action to ensure a future for Atlantic bluefin tuna and sharks through the implementation of clear science-based conservation and management measures (CMMs), as well as decisive action to implement port State measures to combat illegal fishing.

Letter: State Cannot Ignore Need for Herring Bycatch Cap

Mon, 25 Oct 2010 16:00:00 GMT

In Don Cuddy's story "Decline in river herring sparks debate, lawsuit" (Oct. 2), Mike Armstrong of the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries, who is a member of the Herring Plan Development Team, states, "The herring fleet takes 700,000 pounds of river herring as bycatch, about a million-and-a-half fish."

2010 Global Aquaculture Performance Index

Wed, 27 Oct 2010 13:20:00 GMT

The Global Aquaculture Performance Index (GAPI) is a new assessment tool that has been developed with this dilemma in mind. GAPI’s main objective is to condense current scientific understanding and aquaculture data into a sound, yet simple score of the environmental performance of marine finfish aquaculture.

Red Snapper Population Set for Rebound

Thu, 28 Oct 2010 15:25:00 GMT

Holly Binns, manager of the Pew Environment Group's Campaign to End Overfishing in the Southeast, issued the following statement today in response to Commerce Secretary Gary Locke’s final approval of the South Atlantic red snapper recovery plan, Amendment 17A.

EU Fisheries Subsidies Revealed in New Online Mapping Tool

Mon, 08 Nov 2010 16:40:00 GMT

Fishsubsidy.org today launched an interactive map that allows European citizens to track €3.4 billion in EU fisheries subsidies. The map shows 39,174 payments to vessels from 1994 to 2006 under the Financial Instrument for Fisheries Guidance (FIFG).

New Report on Atlantic Bluefin Tuna Exposes Fraud, Cheating

Mon, 08 Nov 2010 18:55:00 GMT

Joshua S. Reichert, Managing Director of the Pew Environment Group, issued a statement following the release of a new report from the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists that exposes how fraud and intentional misreporting throughout the supply chain for Atlantic bluefin tuna have contributed to a thriving black market.

Oil Spill Prevention and Response in the U.S. Arctic Ocean: Unexamined Risks, Unacceptable Consequences

Wed, 10 Nov 2010 17:10:00 GMT

This report examine the risks, challenges and potential consequences of oil spills associated with oil and gas exploration and production in the outer continental shelf (OCS) of the United States Arctic Ocean. The April 2010 Deepwater Horizon well blowout in the Gulf of Mexico prompted a reconsideration of the potential for a major blowout from proposed oil exploration or production in the Arctic OCS. This report was developed to contribute to the policy discussion regarding the risks and consequences of such spills.

New Report Finds Oversight Lacking for Oil Drilling in U.S. Arctic Ocean

Wed, 10 Nov 2010 18:20:00 GMT

Darkness, extreme weather and shifting sea ice could delay efforts to stop an oil well blowout in the U.S. Arctic Ocean for six months or more, trapping spewed oil in ice for up to a decade according to a report released today by the Pew Environment Group.

The Fate of Tuna is on the Line in Paris

Fri, 12 Nov 2010 19:30:00 GMT

While fishermen have been quick to catch them, countries have been very slow to save one of the fastest fish in the sea. Now there’s another chance to protect Atlantic bluefin tuna.

Review of EU Shark-Finning Ban Brings Chance to Close Loopholes

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 17:50:00 GMT

The Shark Alliance is putting its support behind an option to amend the EU ban on shark finning that would require that fins remain naturally attached to shark bodies until fishing vessels return to port.

Joint Policy Statement on Atlantic Bluefin Tuna Management

Tue, 16 Nov 2010 16:10:00 GMT

Greenpeace, Oceana, the Pew Environment Group and WWF call upon member governments of the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) to immediately protect the severely depleted Atlantic bluefin tuna.

Pew Calls for Strong, Immediate Action to Protect Tuna, Sharks

Tue, 16 Nov 2010 16:10:00 GMT

As the annual meeting of the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) begins in Paris, the Pew Environment Group is urging ICCAT member nations to create spawning ground sanctuaries for Atlantic bluefin tuna, suspend this imperiled fishery, strengthen conservation measures for sharks and stop illegal fishing.

Earth Negotiations Bulletin from Pew-IDDRI Bluefin Tuna Seminar

Tue, 16 Nov 2010 21:00:00 GMT

The seminar entitled “What is the Future of Bluefin Tuna? Perspectives before the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT)” took place on 16 November at the Oceanographic Institute in Paris, France. The meeting immediately preceded the 17th Special Meeting of ICCAT (ICCAT 2010), and was attended by over 200 participants representing intergovernmental and nongovernmental organizations, academia and representatives of the media.

French and Spanish Citizens Overwhelmingly Support Bluefin Tuna Conservation

Thu, 18 Nov 2010 16:00:00 GMT

Results from national representative survey show strong public support for bluefin tuna spawning ground sanctuaries in advance of international meeting on management measures for this species.

US Supports Bluefin Tuna Conservation

Thu, 18 Nov 2010 16:05:00 GMT

As of November 17, over 84,000 letters have been sent to the United States government urging protection of bluefin tuna spawning grounds at the 17th Special Meeting of the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT, Paris, November 17-27, 2010).

Eleventh Hour for Tuna and Sharks

Thu, 18 Nov 2010 19:35:00 GMT

It's now or never for the bluefin tuna, an iconic ocean predator prized as a sashimi delicacy--and being overfished to the edge of extinction.

Time to Save the Tuna

Fri, 19 Nov 2010 19:35:00 GMT

Atlantic bluefin tuna are one of the most remarkable fish in the sea. Their amazing biology allows them to dive down to 1,000m and race through the water at extraordinary speeds, migrating thousands of kilometres across the ocean each year. Yet, today, overfishing – some of it illegal, unregulated and unreported – has taken an enormous toll.

For Whom the Bell Trolls

Sun, 21 Nov 2010 20:35:00 GMT

It’s been said that patience is a virtue. But while patience has served me well on the water, it’s been a challenge when I’m in the boardroom or out talking with policymakers.

Pew: Governments Incapable of Managing Tuna

Sat, 27 Nov 2010 15:55:00 GMT

Dr. Susan Lieberman, director of international policy for the Pew Environment Group, issued this statement today in response to decisions made at this year’s meeting of the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas.

Administration’s Offshore Plan Fails to Protect Arctic

Wed, 01 Dec 2010 18:15:00 GMT

Marilyn Heiman, director of the Pew Environment Group’s U.S. Arctic Program, issued the following statement in response to the Obama administration’s announcement today on offshore oil and gas leasing.

Pew Urges Fishery Council to Remain Committed to Recovery Plan

Mon, 06 Dec 2010 16:49:42 GMT

2010-12-03 Holly Binns, of the Pew Environment Group, issued the following statement today in response to the Department of Commerce’s decision to suspend part of the South Atlantic red snapper recovery plan until fishery managers consider results of a new study. Red snapper fishing is still prohibited from Nort

Ottawa Takes Major Step Towards Creation of Lancaster Sound National Marine Conservation Area

Mon, 06 Dec 2010 19:50:00 GMT

The federal government today took a significant step towards the creation of the Arctic's first national marine conservation area in Lancaster Sound by proposing boundaries that encompass a sweeping 44,500 square kilometers, an area twice the size of Lake Erie.

Red Snapper Protections Changed

Thu, 09 Dec 2010 16:20:00 GMT

Holly Binns, a project manager at the Pew Environment Group, issued the following statement today in response to the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council’s vote to eliminate the closed ocean area to bottom fishing as part of the red snapper recovery plan.

EU Advances Protection for Sharks and Rays

Wed, 15 Dec 2010 18:00:00 GMT

The Shark Alliance welcomes Tuesday’s decision by the EU Council of Fisheries Ministers to end all fishing for spurdog, to maintain the closure of the porbeagle shark fishery through 2011 and to reduce quotas for skates and rays.

Fisheries Council Decision on 2011 Fishing Limits

Wed, 15 Dec 2010 19:15:00 GMT

Uta Bellion, director of the Pew Environment Group’s European Marine Programme and OCEAN2012 co-ordinator, issued the following statement responding to the Fisheries Council’s decision on 2011 Total Allowable Catches (TACs), fishing limits.

Pew Welcomes European Parliament’s Call to Strengthen EU Shark Finning Ban

Thu, 16 Dec 2010 22:00:00 GMT

Uta Bellion, director of the Pew Environment Group’s EU Marine Programme, issued the following statement to mark the European Parliament’s adoption of the Written Declaration 71/2010 on shark finning.

Monday Meeting Key to Protecting River Herring

Sat, 18 Dec 2010 15:25:00 GMT

On Monday, Dec. 20, a committee of the New England Fishery Management Council will meet in Portsmouth to continue the effort to develop a new management plan for Atlantic herring.

Pew Applauds Senate Action to Protect Sharks

Mon, 20 Dec 2010 20:50:00 GMT

Matt Rand, director of the Pew Environment Group’s Global Shark Conservation Campaign, issued the following statement today in response to the U.S. Senate passing the Shark Conservation Act, which was introduced by Sen. John Kerry (D-MA).

Gov. Patrick, Don't Let Fish History Repeat Itself

Thu, 23 Dec 2010 16:05:00 GMT

Gov. Deval Patrick recently asked U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke to implement an Emergency Action to increase the amount of fish, such as cod, flounder and other groundfish, that fishermen are allowed to catch.

Letter: Hope for the Herring

Tue, 28 Dec 2010 20:50:00 GMT

It is said that history repeats itself, a statement I never quite understood. However, it is becoming clearer to me as I observe the river herring run on Buckeye Brook each year.

Pew Hails New Protections for Fish Species

Wed, 29 Dec 2010 20:25:00 GMT

Holly Binns, a project manager with the Pew Environment Group, issued the following statement today in response to the Department of Commerce’s final approval of Amendment 17B—a plan to save nine dwindling fish species in the U.S. South Atlantic.

Healthy Marine Environment Wins with Secretary of Commerce Locke's Decision

Fri, 07 Jan 2011 20:30:00 GMT

Peter Baker, manager of the Pew Environment Group's New England Fisheries Campaign, issued the following statement today in response to Secretary of Commerce Gary Locke's decision to deny a request for emergency action to increase fishing limits for New England groundfish such as cod and flounder.

New Fishing Limits Proposed for Dozens of Southeast Species

Wed, 19 Jan 2011 15:50:00 GMT

2011 01 19 Holly Binns, a project manager for the Pew Environment Group, issued the following statement today in advance of the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council’s public hearings during the next two weeks on a new plan to

Herring Trawlers Don't Need Higher Haddock Cap

Sun, 23 Jan 2011 19:15:00 GMT

Your Jan. 18 article, "Herring fishery caught in rules web," contains factual inaccuracies and is misleading.

Shark Populations Dwindle as Top Catchers Delay on Conservation Actions

Thu, 27 Jan 2011 18:25:00 GMT

A decade after members of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (UN FAO) approved an international plan to conserve sharks, a new analysis finds that it has yet to be fully implemented. With 30 percent of all shark species now threatened or near threatened with extinction, there is little evidence that the plan has contributed significantly to improved conservation and management of these animals.

The Future of Sharks: A Review of Action and Inaction

Thu, 27 Jan 2011 18:55:00 GMT

Pew Applauds Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands Ban on Shark Finning

Fri, 28 Jan 2011 18:30:00 GMT

Matt Rand, director of the Pew Environment Group’s Global Shark Conservation Campaign, issued the following statement today in response to the signing of the Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) shark fin prohibition act by CNMI Governor Beningo R. Fitial. The bill was introduced by State Rep. Diego Benavente (R-Saipan) and State Sen. Jude Hofschneider (R-Tinian).

Pew Supports Proactive Approach to Prevent Overfishing

Tue, 01 Feb 2011 19:45:00 GMT

Holly Binns, a project manager for the Pew Environment Group, issued the following statement today in advance of the Caribbean Fishery Management Council’s public hearings during the next two weeks on a new plan to set fishing limits on dozens of species.

Turning the Tide to Protect Sharks

Sun, 13 Feb 2011 20:20:00 GMT

Last year might have marked more than a turnaround for the global economy. It also may prove to have been a watershed for protecting some of the oldest species of fish in our oceans.

Early Halt to Japanese Whaling Could Mark Permanent End to Hunt in Antarctic Waters

Wed, 16 Feb 2011 15:00:00 GMT

Josh Reichert, managing director of the Pew Environment Group, issued the following statement today in response to the announcement of the withdrawal of the Japanese whaling fleet from the Southern Ocean one month before it normally heads home.

There Is Little Room to Gamble on the Future of Fisheries in the Gulf

Wed, 16 Feb 2011 18:50:42 GMT

If you were blindfolded on the top of a cliff, how close would you dare get to the edge?

That's the question facing federal fishery managers who must determine how many fish can be taken from the Gulf of Mexico without harming species and unbalancing the ecosystem.

Guam Senate Moves to End Shark Fin Trade

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 21:35:00 GMT

The Senate of Guam, a U.S. territory in the Pacific Ocean, passed a bill today banning the sale, possession and distribution of shark fins. With this legislation, sponsored by the Guam Senate’s Vice Speaker B.J. Cruz, the Pacific islands continue to lead the world in the fight for shark conservation.

Making Sure Sharks Are Not Easy Prey

Fri, 11 Mar 2011 15:55:00 GMT

Last year marked a turnaround for the global economy, and it may also prove to have been a watershed for protecting some of the oldest species of fish facing commercial extinction - sharks.

Exxon Valdez 22 Years Later

Wed, 23 Mar 2011 17:45:00 GMT

In special commentary for DiscoveryNews, Pew communications manager Debbie Salamone discusses the lasting effects of the Exxon Valdez oil spill on fisheries and fishermen.

Maine Voices: Sustainable Fisheries Work for New England

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 21:30:41 GMT

Tom Allen served in the 1st Congressional District from 1997–2008, and was a co-founder of the House Oceans Caucus. Read his op-ed on sustainable New England fisheries.

Overfishing 101: A Beginner's Guide to Understanding U.S. Fishery Management

Wed, 30 Mar 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Fishermen, conservationists and scientists have actively debated how best to manage our ocean fish populations for decades. But with so much at stake, it's critical that as many Americans as possible be actively engaged in this discussion. The “Overfishing 101” blog series aims to do just that by providing a new outlet, in which we hope to open up the discussion to the larger public, cut through the rhetoric and encourage more people to participate in marine fish conservation.

America's Fishing Law on the Line

Mon, 11 Apr 2011 13:05:00 GMT

Enjoyed some tasty New England scallops lately? Reeled in a Gulf of Mexico red snapper? Feasted on some mid-Atlantic summer flounder? Aside from your fishing talents or culinary prowess, you have federal fishery law to thank.

Overfishing 101: How Ocean Fish Populations are Managed in the U.S.

Mon, 11 Apr 2011 14:47:25 GMT

All too often the discussion around the issue of overfishing has been limited to a small group of stakeholders such as fishermen, conservationists and scientists. To help open up this debate to the broader public, I've developed a short series nicknamed "Overfishing 101." In this post, I'll take a look at some of the basics of why all Americans should care about how our ocean fish are managed.

Fisheries Management Laws Angled for Long Haul

Sun, 17 Apr 2011 15:35:00 GMT

Besides disco balls, bell-bottoms and lava lamps, the 1970s can lay claim to something far more important -- a host of landmark environmental laws. The Clean Air Act, Ocean Dumping Act and Clean Water Act changed our nation forever. And as a then-young Coast Guard seaman, I saw firsthand the improvements in managing our oceans after Congress passed the Fishery Conservation and Management Act, 35 years ago.

Net Gain for Fish, Fishery

Sat, 23 Apr 2011 21:00:00 GMT

(Boston Herald) Last May, the New England groundfish industry transitioned to a new management system, known as sectors, in which groups of fishermen voluntarily form cooperatives to fish for cod, haddock and other bottom-dwelling species.

Overfishing 101: How Ocean Fish Populations are Managed in the U.S. (Part 2)

Tue, 26 Apr 2011 15:45:00 GMT

To effectively manage these populations, the U.S. needs to base its policy on science. Few topics arouse passions about ocean conservation more quickly than overfishing—taking more fish from our ocean than nature can replace—and what to do about it. In my experience, this debate too often sinks into the details and jargon of fisheries management, making it difficult for the lay person to understand the subject. In this post, I’d like to break it down in a way that is easier to understand.

OCEAN2012 Welcomes Commission's Desire to End Discards as Part of CFP Reform

Tue, 03 May 2011 16:05:00 GMT

Uta Bellion, director of the Pew Environment Group’s European Marine Programme and OCEAN2012 coordinator, issued the following statement on the European Commission’s approach to end discards.

Overfishing 101: The Importance of Rebuilding Our Fish Populations Without Delay

Mon, 09 May 2011 16:10:00 GMT

Lee Crockett, Federal Fisheries Policy director, explores why efforts to delay rebuilding plans and legislative proposals to add so-called “flexibility” in managing fish populations are a bad idea that would only repeat past failed policies.

New England Groundfish Fleet Stays Within Science-Based Catch Limits, Earns More Revenue

Fri, 13 May 2011 15:45:00 GMT

Peter Baker, manager of the Pew Environment Group's Northeast Fisheries Program, issued the following statement today in response to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Northeast Fisheries Science Center’s Interim Report for Fishing Year 2010 on the performance of the new sector management system for New England’s groundfish fleet during the first nine months of the program.

Overfishing 101: Why Ending Overfishing Pays Off in the Long Run

Mon, 23 May 2011 14:25:00 GMT

Lee Crockett, Federal Fisheries Policy director, discusses the economic benefits of ending overfishing and why we can't quit just when the current law is beginning to work.

European Fisheries Must Go 'Back to the Future'

Fri, 03 Jun 2011 14:40:00 GMT

Beginning June 4, the OCEAN2012 coalition will launch the second annual European Fish Week. More than 40 events throughout Europe and one in Africa will engage the public in calling for an effective reform of the EU's Common Fisheries Policy (CFP).

Success Story: The Shark Conservation Act

Tue, 07 Jun 2011 13:55:00 GMT

(The Huffington Post) After a long battle, early this year President Obama signed the Shark Conservation Act into law. This legislation closes loopholes in existing shark conservation law, and directs the U.S. to lead shark conservation efforts internationally.

Overfishing 101: Why Ending Overfishing is Good for Both Fish and Fishermen Alike

Wed, 08 Jun 2011 16:00:00 GMT

As a lifelong angler, I'm the first to admit that fishing can inspire passionate arguments about where, when and how to fish. But decisions about how to rebuild our depleted fish populations must be based on science and facts, not emotion or ideology.

Fixing Our Broken Oceans

Sat, 18 Jun 2011 21:25:00 GMT

Many people know that oceans cover more than 70% of the world's surface, and that marine fisheries provide food for billions of people. What is less known is that the high seas – the areas of the world's oceans that lie beyond the limits of national jurisdiction, which extend 200 miles from shore – make up roughly two-thirds of our oceans and 45% of the planet's surface.

Fish Aggregating Devices (FADs) and Tuna: Impacts and Management Options

Tue, 21 Jun 2011 16:00:00 GMT

This report provides an overview of current literature on fish aggregating devices (FADs) and their impacts on tuna populations.

Sharks Caught in the Jaws of Tuna Fisheries

Thu, 30 Jun 2011 15:35:00 GMT

Governments will soon have a chance to help conserve populations of oceanic whitetip sharks, which have declined so much in the eastern Pacific that catch numbers have been reduced to almost zero.

Overfishing 101: How Science Helps Managers End Overfishing and Rebuild Depleted Fish Populations

Thu, 30 Jun 2011 16:00:00 GMT

Industry representatives frequently charge that federal fisheries managers use bad science to make decisions. Nothing could be farther from the truth. Learn more about the use of research in setting policy and managing our marine resources.

Beginning July 3rd, Europeans Will Be Eating Somebody Else's Fish

Fri, 01 Jul 2011 17:00:00 GMT

A report by OCEAN2012 and the New Economics Foundation reveals that starting July 3, the EU will be dependent on seafood from elsewhere, six days earlier than last year.

Fish Dependence: The Increasing Reliance of the EU on Fish from Elsewhere

Fri, 01 Jul 2011 17:05:00 GMT

European Union (EU) fish stocks are in an unprecedentedly poor state yet fish consumption throughout Europe remains high.

Closing the Gap: Comparing Tuna RFMO Port State Measures With the FAO Agreement on Port State Measures

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 20:15:00 GMT

The Pew Environment Group has conducted a gap analysis comparing the port State measures (PSMs) established by 10 Regional Fisheries Management Organisations (RFMOs) with those established by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Agreement on Port State Measures to Prevent, Deter and Eliminate Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing (PSMA, or Agreement).

New Global Assessment Confirms Threat to Tuna

Thu, 07 Jul 2011 18:00:00 GMT

Dr. Susan Lieberman, director of International Policy for the Pew Environment Group, released the following statement in response to the first-ever global species assessment of tuna and billfish (swordfish, sailfish and marlin).

A Methodology for Capacity Needs Assessments Towards Implementation of the Port State Measures Agreement

Thu, 07 Jul 2011 19:15:00 GMT

Detailed methodology on how to undertake a capacity needs assessment for the implementation of port state measures in developing countries.

European Commission Proposes Fisheries Fix To Council & Parliament

Wed, 13 Jul 2011 19:00:00 GMT

Uta Bellion, director of the Pew Environment Group’s European Marine Programme and coordinator of OCEAN2012, issued the following statement on the European Commission’s proposal for reform of the European Union’s Common Fisheries Policy (CFP).

The Hidden Cost of Overfishing to Commercial Fishermen

Mon, 25 Jul 2011 13:25:00 GMT

A new report commissioned by the Pew Environment Group examines the impact of chronic overfishing in terms of lost revenue to commercial fishermen in three U.S. regions with the highest levels of overfishing. In 2009 alone, commercial fishermen in New England, the South Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico regions that targeted depleted ocean fish populations lost $164.2 million and realized just 25 percent of potential revenue.

Pew Supports Endangered Species Petition for River Herring

Tue, 02 Aug 2011 16:20:00 GMT

Peter Baker, director of the Pew Northeast Fisheries Program, issued this statement in support of the Natural Resources Defense Council petition urging the federal government to list both species of East Coast river herring (alewives and blueback herring) as "threatened" under the Endangered Species Act.

Overfishing 101: A Big Fish Story We Should Take Seriously

Thu, 04 Aug 2011 17:45:00 GMT

Almost everyone has a friend or a relative who loves to tell the tale of the "big one" that got away. And more often than not, that fish grows larger and larger with every telling of the story. I have to admit, as an avid angler, I may have been tempted to do this a time or two. But not all fish stories are tall tales.

Protections Approved for Dozens of Additional Fish Species

Tue, 09 Aug 2011 21:30:00 GMT

Holly Binns, director of the Pew Environment Group’s Southeast Fish Conservation Campaign, issued the following statement today in response to the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council’s 8 to 5 vote to approve plans to prevent overfishing that protect dozens of species by setting science-based catch limits.

Overfishing 101: Why Rebuilding Fish Populations Benefits Everyone

Mon, 15 Aug 2011 17:25:00 GMT

All too often, leaders in Washington focus on the short-term impacts of potential policies to the detriment of long-term benefits to our environment and economy. Ongoing efforts in Congress to weaken the federal laws that govern marine resources are a great case in point.

Gag Grouper Wins New Protections

Fri, 19 Aug 2011 16:45:00 GMT

Holly Binns, a project director for the Pew Environment Group, issued the following statement today in response to votes by the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council to protect the dwindling gag grouper and approve a new plan to prevent overfishing.

Protections Approved for More Than 100 Caribbean Fish Species

Tue, 30 Aug 2011 21:40:00 GMT

Holly Binns, director of the Pew Environment Group’s Southeast and U.S. Caribbean Fish Conservation Campaign, issued the following statement today in response to the Caribbean Fishery Management Council’s unanimous approval of plans to prevent overfishing of more than 100 species by setting science-based catch limits.

Overfishing 101: New England's First Year of Fishing Under Sectors

Wed, 31 Aug 2011 13:40:00 GMT

In May 2010, the New England Fishery Management Council began a system of cooperative fishing groups called sectors. Sector members create a business plan that makes clear how the allotment will be divided and how, when and where they will fish. Find out how this new management plan has fared over the past year.

Overfishing 101: It Ain't Over Till It's Over

Tue, 06 Sep 2011 19:25:00 GMT

Everyone loves a good comeback story, but sometimes a storyline emerges prematurely. Mark Twain famously responded to a press inquiry regarding his supposed demise by saying, “The report of my death was an exaggeration.” Similarly, declarations earlier this year that overfishing had ended in America provide a case in point.

U.S. and EU Pledge Crackdown on Illegal Fishing

Wed, 07 Sep 2011 14:45:00 GMT

Joshua S. Reichert, managing director of the Pew Environment Group, issued this statement today in response to a historic agreement between the United States and the European Union to stop illegal fishing.

Deep Trouble for the Deep Sea

Thu, 08 Sep 2011 16:30:00 GMT

The deep sea, home to some of the world’s most unusual creatures, is teeming with biological diversity, most of which has yet to be scientifically-documented. But in spite of the wonders that exist far below the surface, the deep sea is being destroyed.

Overfishing 101: Creative Ways to Protect Atlantic Bluefin Tuna

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 19:40:00 GMT

Many people have heard of bluefin tuna, even if they haven’t eaten it. Bluefin, which are among the world’s most remarkable animals, can reach 1,500 pounds, migrate across the Atlantic, dive to depths of more than 3,000 feet and swim at breakneck speeds. They have also been pursued for centuries for their rich, buttery flesh. Traditional bluefin fisheries used to be sustainable, but loosely regulated industrial-scale fishing changed everything for this amazing fish.

Closing U.S. Arctic Ocean Science Gaps

Mon, 26 Sep 2011 15:45:00 GMT

The Pew Environment Group and Ocean Conservancy released a white paper today recommending concrete steps the Obama administration should take to address science gaps and inform conservation and development decisions in America’s Arctic Ocean.

A Once and Future Gulf of Mexico Ecosystem

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 04:15:00 GMT

The Deepwater Horizon disaster in April 2010 released more oil into the marine environment than any previous U.S. oil spill. This spill has already taken a great ecological and economic toll on the Gulf of Mexico, but it may be years before we know the full extent of the damage from the oil and the chemical dispersants used to break it up.

Stronger Management of Atlantic Herring Fishery Advances

Thu, 29 Sep 2011 16:30:00 GMT

Peter Baker, director of the Pew Environment Group's Northeast Fisheries Program and the Herring Alliance, issued the following statement today in response to the New England Fishery Management Council’s decision to seek public input on a long-awaited set of proposed regulations that would be included under Amendment 5 to the Atlantic Herring Fishery Management Plan.

Getting Serious About Illegal Tuna Fishing in the Mediterranean

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 20:05:00 GMT

Driftnets sound relatively harmless as a fishing method. But as any marine biologist will tell you, this gear threatens ocean wildlife. At its November meeting, however, the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) could take steps to enforce current international prohibitions on the usage of this damaging practice.

Proposed River Herring and Shad Protections Clear First Hurdle

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 14:40:00 GMT

Peter Baker, director of the Pew Environment Group's Northeast Fisheries Program and the Herring Alliance, issued the following statement today in response to the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council’s (MAFMC) decision to seek public input on a set of proposed measures to be considered in Amendment 14 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid and Butterfish Fishery Management Plan.

Gap Analysis: Comparing CCAMLR's Port State Measures

Mon, 17 Oct 2011 13:20:00 GMT

The Pew Environment Group conducted a gap analysis to identify specific disparities in port State measures adopted by 10 regional fisheries management organisations as they compare to the FAO Port State Measures Agreement. The goal is to offer information that can be used to strengthen port State control systems and, as a result, help reduce illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing.

Ocean Earth: How Rio+20 Can and Must Turn the Tide

Mon, 17 Oct 2011 19:35:00 GMT

At UNCSD in 2012 (Rio+20), the international community must take urgent action to reform ocean governance to ensure the sustainability of global fish stocks and to ensure legal instruments are in place to facilitate the protection and long term sustainable use of marine biodiversity. Read Pew's policy recommendations.

Men-What? For Many, It's a Meal

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 15:10:00 GMT

What’s the most important fish in the sea? That distinction often goes to a one-pound creature that most people have never heard of: menhaden.

We Need to Rebuild Menhaden Stocks

Fri, 04 Nov 2011 14:50:00 GMT

The menhaden is a humble fish. Many people may have never heard of it. Yet, this unassuming small creature is among the most important species in the Atlantic, playing a critical role in the region’s food web and supporting the economies of countless coastal communities. But its numbers, unfortunately, are plummeting.

Great Day for Menhaden

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 20:50:00 GMT

New fishery management benchmarks for Atlantic menhaden, often called “the most important fish in the sea,” were established today in an effort to increase its population to four times the current size.

ICCAT: Time to Tackle What's Really in the Net

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 18:25:00 GMT

What’s in a name? If you’re talking about ICCAT—the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas—so much is contained in that one acronym. This body manages all the tuna and tuna-like species found in the vast ocean waters between the United States and Europe and between South America and Africa.

Treaty to Stop Illegal Fishing Goes to Senate for Ratification

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Jeff Wise, director of the Pew Environment Group’s Global Campaign to End Illegal Fishing, issued this statement today in response to the Obama Administration’s formal transmittal for ratification by the U.S. Senate of the Port States Measures Agreement, a major international treaty to combat pirate fishing.

Pew Applauds Congress for Supporting Fisheries Science, Coastal Communities

Fri, 18 Nov 2011 15:50:00 GMT

Lee Crockett, director of federal fisheries policy for the Pew Environment Group, issued the following statement today in response to President Obama signing the Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2012, which allocates $161 million to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration for much-needed fisheries research and monitoring programs.

ICCAT: Progress, Yes. Success, No.

Sat, 19 Nov 2011 15:15:00 GMT

Governments at the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) have adopted several important provisions that will conserve threatened fish species—such as bluefin tuna and silky sharks, but failed to act on several pressing matters. ICCAT is the international body that manages tuna fisheries across a quarter of the ocean’s surface, including the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea.

Shark Conservation Gets a Boost

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 14:30:00 GMT

The Shark Alliance welcomed the long-awaited proposal today from the European Commission for closing the loopholes in the European Union’s ban on shark finning, the wasteful practice of slicing off a shark’s fins and discarding the body at sea.

Overfishing 101: Postcard from Pendik

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 18:55:00 GMT

ICCAT is the international body that manages tuna fisheries across a quarter of the ocean’s surface, including the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea.

OCEAN2012 Calls EU Fisheries Subsidies 'Blind Spending'

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 12:30:00 GMT

Markus Knigge, adviser to the Pew Environment Group’s European Marine Programme and the OCEAN2012 coalition, issued the following statement today as the European Commission published its proposal for the next fisheries subsidies instrument, the European Fisheries and Maritime Fund.

New Study Puts Eco-labels to the Test

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 04:55:00 GMT

A new report released today by the University of Victoria ranks eco-labels intended to distinguish seafood produced with less damage to the environment. It is the first study to evaluate how eco-labels for farmed marine fish compare to unlabeled options in the marketplace.

Marine Fisheries Employment: 260 Million Jobs

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 15:35:00 GMT

There are approximately 260 million marine fisheries jobs worldwide, according to a new article in the journal Fish and Fisheries. The comprehensive estimates of employment generated from fishing are 1.75 times greater than previous approximations by the U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization.

Overfishing 101: Dissecting Sectors

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 20:30:00 GMT

New England groundfish fishermen have operated for more than a year under a new system of cooperative fishing groups called sectors. And as often happens with any transformation within an industry, some have prospered, while others have not. Some government officials are asking the federal government to overturn these reforms, but others say leave the basic system alone. So what’s really happening?

After Oil Spill, Don't Shortchange Gulf

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 17:10:00 GMT

The network TV news crews may have long since left, but the work of repairing the environmental and economic damage from the 2010 Deepwater Horizon disaster in the Gulf of Mexico is far from complete.

Overfishing 101: Celebrating a Good Year for Marine Conservation

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 19:00:00 GMT

This was a historic year for United States ocean management. Thirty-five years after the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (MSA) was enacted, we have finally established a system that, if implemented properly, will keep countless marine species healthy and ensure fishermen stay on the water.

Plans to Prevent Southeast Overfishing Win Final Approval

Thu, 29 Dec 2011 16:25:00 GMT

Holly Binns, a project director for the Pew Environment Group, issued the following statement today in response to U.S. Commerce Secretary John Bryson’s approval of new catch limits on some species in the Gulf of Mexico.

Protections Finalized for 132 Caribbean Fish Species

Fri, 30 Dec 2011 14:55:00 GMT

Holly Binns, a project director for the Pew Environment Group, issued the following statement today in response to the U.S. Department of Commerce’s final approval of plans to prevent overfishing of 132 species by setting science-based catch limits. The Caribbean Fishery Management Council gave initial approval in August.

The Bottom Line: New Year's Resolution 2012: Let's Gain Weight in the Ocean

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 20:05:00 GMT

One of the most popular New Year’s resolutions for Americans is to lose weight. Around this time of year, gyms fill up, the health food sections of supermarkets become crowded, and people whose daily exercise consisted of picking up their mail start jogging. But for the fish in America’s oceans, we need to resolve to help them gain weight.

Putting Fish Over Politics

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 15:35:00 GMT

(Miami Herald) Remarkable things can happen when key stakeholders and leaders in Washington find common ground for a common good.

The Bottom Line: Historic Anniversary for Fishing in America's Oceans

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 17:50:00 GMT

It’s hard to get politicians to agree on anything these days. But five years ago this month, President George W. Bush, flanked by Republican and Democratic members of Congress, signed the reauthorization of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act.

The Bottom Line: An Inconvenient Truth About Gulf of Maine Cod

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 15:30:00 GMT

Many in New England were recently stunned by the news that the region’s prized codfish are in much deeper trouble than anyone had realized. The bleak conclusion of the most recent scientific assessment was unexpected, because just three years earlier cod appeared to show signs of recovery. Fishermen, scientists, and others have rightfully been asking, “What happened?”

Rules for Gag Grouper Should be Standardized

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 17:15:00 GMT

A virtual but important line, running through the Gulf of Mexico, may determine whether one of Florida's most popular — and most severely depleted — fish will recover. It's the line between state and federal waters.

Gulf of Mexico Gag Grouper Win Protection

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 15:40:00 GMT

Holly Binns, a project director for the Pew Environment Group, issued the following statement today in response to the U.S. Commerce Department’s final approval of a gag grouper recovery plan.

Sens. Kerry, Snowe, Rockefeller, Brown, and Whitehouse Introduce Bill Supporting Fish, Coastal Communities; Reps. Frank and Guinta Expected to Introduce Companion Bill in the House

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 21:05:00 GMT

The Pew Environment Group commends bipartisan legislation that would ensure that key programs critical to sustainably managing ocean fish populations, and the fishermen and communities that depend on them, would receive increased and sustained funding.

International Conservation Organization Congratulates Guam on Shark Leadership

Tue, 13 Mar 2012 02:45:00 GMT

During the 17th Micronesian Chief Executives Summit, held in the village of Tamuning this week, representatives from the Pew Environment Group congratulated Guam leaders on the one-year anniversary of the signing of Public Law 31-10, which prohibits the possession, sale, and trade of shark fins, rays, and ray parts.

The Bottom Line: How Investing in Our Fisheries Pays Off

Tue, 13 Mar 2012 15:30:00 GMT

Sometimes, an idea comes forward in Washington that actually brings together people who normally disagree. The proposed Fisheries Investment and Regulatory Relief Act does that and more.

Protections Approved for Dozens of South Atlantic Fish Species

Fri, 16 Mar 2012 13:45:00 GMT

Holly Binns, a project director for the Pew Environment Group, issued the following statement today in response to the U.S. Commerce Department’s approval of catch limits for more than three dozen species in the South Atlantic from Florida to North Carolina.

The Bottom Line: Little Fish Do Matter

Wed, 02 May 2012 14:10:00 GMT

Small fish such as sardines and anchovies don’t get much love. But these little fish provide essential food for all the marine life that we like to catch, eat or watch. Unfortunately, most fisheries managers haven’t thought too much about these prey fish, either—until now, that is.

Critically Depleted Fish Lose Protection

Thu, 10 May 2012 15:15:00 GMT

Holly Binns, a project director for the Pew Environment Group, issued the following statement today in response to the U.S. Commerce Department’s final approval of a plan to reopen fishing for six species in water deeper than 240 feet along the southeast coast, from North Carolina to Florida.

The Bottom Line: Even Fish Need Yearly Checkups

Mon, 14 May 2012 16:55:00 GMT

On May 14, NOAA released its 2011 fisheries report. Last year, thanks to our system of science-based management, six U.S. ocean fish stocks were fully rebuilt to healthy levels, others continued their recovery, and significant progress was made in ending overfishing.

Pew Responds to Op-Ed in Panama City News Herald

Wed, 23 May 2012 13:20:00 GMT

Holly Binns responds to an op-ed published in the Panama City News Herald on May 14, 2012 that was critical of Pew's efforts to end overfishing in the Gulf of Mexico.

Protect Forage Fish, Cornerstone of Our Ocean's Food Web

Wed, 23 May 2012 16:10:00 GMT

(Seattle Times) While salmon may be iconic, we must not forget to protect the health and numbers of the cornerstone of our ocean's food web — namely, the less-well-known forage fish.

The Bottom Line: A Small 'Catch' in Recent Fisheries Coverage

Thu, 24 May 2012 15:30:00 GMT

Last week, the New York Times published a blog and an editorial recognizing the progress made in the management of U.S. ocean fisheries. Overall, more than 100 newspapers across the country have covered a promising new report from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) that I discussed in my most recent blog post.

Europeans Call on their Decision-Makers to End Overfishing

Fri, 08 Jun 2012 18:15:00 GMT

Today is World Oceans Day, and OCEAN2012 is launching the third European Fish Weeks, when citizens across Europe will organise public events in 12 EU member states to raise awareness of overfishing and of decision-makers’ responsibility to end it.

Red Snapper Fishing Set to Reopen after 2.5-year Moratorium

Fri, 15 Jun 2012 18:10:00 GMT

Holly Binns, a project director for the Pew Environment Group, issued the following statement today in response to the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council’s vote to allow limited red snapper fishing in the South Atlantic from North Carolina to Florida.

Big Win for Small Fish: Protections Approved for Forage Fish on the East Coast

Fri, 22 Jun 2012 13:45:00 GMT

Peter Baker, director of northeast fisheries programs for the Pew Environment Group, issued the following statement in response to the New England Fishery Management Council’s vote to approve plans that could help prevent the decline of river herring populations by regulating massive trawl vessels in the Atlantic Ocean.

Pew Responds to May 2012 Editorial in Sport Fishing Magazine

Fri, 29 Jun 2012 15:15:00 GMT

Lee Crockett responds to an editorial published in Sport Fishing Magazine in May 2012 that was critical of Pew's support for a protected marine park in Australia's Coral Sea and claims that we are working for a similar effort in the Gulf of Mexico.

The Bottom Line: Fatter Snapper Put Fishermen on a Diet

Thu, 05 Jul 2012 13:10:00 GMT

Recreational fishermen heading to the Gulf of Mexico face a conundrum if they want to hook a red snapper.

The Bottom Line: A Historic Milestone for America's Ocean Fish

Tue, 10 Jul 2012 13:40:00 GMT

In a little publicized but very important milestone, NOAA fisheries and the regional fishery management councils have completed a task set out by Congress in 2006: establishing enforceable, science-based annual catch limits (ACLs) that end and prevent overfishing.

Forage Fish Get Important Recognition, Thanks to You

Wed, 18 Jul 2012 14:25:00 GMT

Thanks to tens of thousands of comments, West Coast fishery managers have taken an important step to protect forage fish as the key link in a balanced and productive ocean ecosystem.

EU Commission Makes History with Proposal to Phase Out Bottom Trawling for Deep-Sea Species

Thu, 19 Jul 2012 13:15:00 GMT

In a move that will help protect one of the most biodiverse areas on Earth, the European Commission today proposed phasing out destructive bottom trawling and bottom gillnetting among deep sea fishing fleets in the Northeast Atlantic. The Pew Environment Group praised EC Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Maria Damanaki, for the bold proposal to finally put an end to these unsustainable and destructive deep-sea fishing methods.

After Rio+20: What Now for the Ocean?

Fri, 10 Aug 2012 14:55:00 GMT

In contrast to the picture that was painted in the press, the Pew Environment Group believes there is reason to be hopeful about progress that was made on ocean conservation issues, our policy priority, at Rio+20.

Pew Applauds Largest Ever U.S. Court Ordered Restitution in History of the Lacey Act

Mon, 20 Aug 2012 14:10:00 GMT

Karen Sack, director of international ocean conservation for the Pew Environment Group, issued a statement in response to a major decision that sends a strong message to those engaged in large-scale illegal fishing.

Economic Costs of Historic Overfishing on Recreational Fisheries: South Atlantic & Gulf of Mexico Regions

Tue, 04 Sep 2012 12:30:00 GMT

This study examines an important component of the costs of overfishing in the South Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico regions — recreational catch losses from historic overfishing and their associated economic impacts.

Southeast Suffered Millions in Economic Losses from Overfishing

Tue, 04 Sep 2012 12:30:00 GMT

The Southeast sustained tens of millions of dollars in economic losses during a five-year period because years of overfishing depleted species led to fewer recreational fishing trips, according to an analysis commissioned by the Pew Environment Group.

The Bottom Line: New Study - Overfishing Costs Southeast and Gulf Regions Millions Per Year

Tue, 04 Sep 2012 12:30:00 GMT

There’s an old saying that a penny saved is a penny earned. This sound financial advice is equally true for management of U.S. ocean fish resources. As I’ve said before, conserving our ocean fish populations is a prudent economic investment. The converse is also true: Overfishing is bad economic policy.

The Bottom Line: A Creative Solution to a Persistent Problem

Mon, 24 Sep 2012 20:45:00 GMT

An innovative project in the Gulf of Mexico may finally offer a real solution to a decades-old problem.

Antarctic Ocean Legacy: A Marine Reserve for the Ross Sea

Sat, 29 Sep 2012 18:25:00 GMT

In October 2011, the Antarctic Ocean Alliance proposed the creation of a network of marine protected areas and no-take marine reserves in 19 specific
areas in the Southern Ocean around Antarctica.

The Bottom Line: U.S. Fisheries and Us

Fri, 19 Oct 2012 14:10:00 GMT

The Magnuson-Stevens Act's tradition of openness and public input is at odds with a proposed “data confidentiality” rule from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Marine Fisheries Service that could revise federal guidelines on the release of fishing data.

Pew Responds to Article in the Carteret County (NC) News-Times

Fri, 19 Oct 2012 16:20:00 GMT

Peter Baker responds to an article published in the Carteret County (NC) News-Times about menhaden stock.

Small Fish, Big Opportunity

Fri, 26 Oct 2012 18:05:00 GMT

Sometimes the environmental challenges facing our oceans seem so large that it's hard to know where to start solving them. Over the past several months, however, a collection of conservationists, anglers and others have come together to urge federal policymakers to safeguard the array of species that serve as the foundation for a healthy marine ecosystem.

Antarctic Commission Improves Port Inspections to Fight Illegal Fishing

Thu, 01 Nov 2012 14:20:00 GMT

A key Antarctic fisheries and conservation management body agreed to strengthen port inspection rules, which will help crack down on illegal fishing in the Southern Ocean.

The Bottom Line: Big Opportunity for Pacific Fish

Mon, 05 Nov 2012 14:25:00 GMT

Our nation's West Coast is known worldwide for the rich and iconic marine life that can be found off its shores. In fact, countless tourists travel there every year just for a glimpse of a pod of migrating gray whales or the chance to catch a coho or king salmon in the wild.

European Commission Exposes Countries that Aid Illegal Fishing

Thu, 15 Nov 2012 17:05:00 GMT

The Pew Environment Group commends the European Union for its latest effort to stop illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. On Nov. 15, the European Commission published for the first time a list of countries that are failing to sufficiently fight IUU fishing, per international law.

ICCAT Follows Scientific Advice on Atlantic Bluefin Tuna, Makes Some Progress on Sharks, Efforts to Combat Illegal Fishing

Mon, 19 Nov 2012 14:35:00 GMT

At the conclusion of their week-long meeting in Agadir, 48 member governments of the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas today adopted positive measures that will help conserve the iconic Atlantic bluefin tuna, and advance shark protection in the future. But they deferred meaningful action on other pressing matters.

The Bottom Line: Big Turnout for Little Menhaden

Thu, 06 Dec 2012 21:45:00 GMT

The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) has seen a lot in its 70-year history but nothing quite like this. More than 128,000 people flooded the commission’s inboxes with postcards and emails last month, a new record for public comment. Scientists, small business owners, nature lovers, and anglers sent letters and spoke out at public hearings. And it was all about a fish that almost no one ever eats—Atlantic menhaden.

Menhaden Matter! A Huge Win for Small Fish

Fri, 14 Dec 2012 17:40:00 GMT

Peter Baker of the Pew Environment Group issued the following statement on today’s vote by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission on management of the Atlantic menhaden fishery.

The Bottom Line: Don't Remove Protection When Cod Need It Most

Wed, 19 Dec 2012 16:10:00 GMT

New England is famous for cod fishing. But the industry is ailing – and the cure being proposed might be worse than the disease.

The Bottom Line: A Better Way to Manage Fish

Wed, 09 Jan 2013 15:00:00 GMT

Already, 2013 is shaping up to be an important year for the health of our nations’ fisheries. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration recently concluded a public comment period on a wide range of policy issues that could determine the future course of U.S. fisheries management.

The Bottom Line: Menhaden Could Make a Comeback

Fri, 25 Jan 2013 16:50:00 GMT

After decades of decline and chronic overfishing, the Atlantic menhaden might have just turned the corner toward a comeback. A rebuilt population of these little fish would have big benefits for the ecosystem and economy of the entire east coast.

Interpol Launches Major Global Initiative to Fight Illegal Fishing

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 05:00:00 GMT

Today, INTERPOL’s Environmental Crime Programme, with support from The Pew Charitable Trusts, the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation, announced the launch of Project SCALE, major global effort to stem illegal fishing and its associated crimes.

The Bottom Line: Changing Course for America's Oldest Fishery

Fri, 01 Mar 2013 18:45:00 GMT

“The fish just aren’t there.” This simple observation from Cape Cod fisheries manager Tom Dempsey to the Associated Press sums up the challenge of decreasing cod populations.

The Bottom Line: Food Fit for a King

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 17:00:00 GMT

(The Bottom Line) If we want to maintain a vibrant and productive ecosystem, it makes sense to leave enough food in the water for other animals in the food web to consume.

The Bottom Line: Coming Together for Bluefin Tuna

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 18:00:00 GMT

It’s not every day that fishermen and environmentalists agree. But in a significant move, the American Bluefin Tuna Association and the International Game Fish Association are partnering with The Pew Charitable Trusts to protect bluefin tuna, one of the most amazing fish in the sea. By working together, we might be able to help ensure a brighter future for this depleted fish.

For Healthy Salmon, Protect Forage Fish

Fri, 05 Apr 2013 19:30:00 GMT

(The Oregonian) West Coast fishery leaders are convening in Portland now for their annual meeting to establish ocean fishing limits for salmon. This time, however, the Pacific Fishery Management Council will also consider its very first fishery ecosystem plan that will account for the impact of fishing not just on one species, but the entire marine food web.

Obama Administration Announces Implementation Plan for the National Ocean Policy

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 15:45:00 GMT

Christopher Mann, director with The Pew Charitable Trusts’ environmental program, issued the following statement today in response to the federal government’s release of the implementation plan for the National Ocean Policy.

Ocean Conservation: Move Beyond Species Protection

Mon, 06 May 2013 14:00:00 GMT

Here in the Gulf, ongoing work to rebuild red snapper to healthy levels is vitally important.

A New Approach to Protect Our Oceans

Mon, 06 May 2013 14:45:00 GMT

The provisions of the law that brought us to the verge of ending overfishing are just the first step toward sustainable fisheries management. Congress therefore has a unique opportunity to build on past marine policy success and move toward a more thorough ecosystem approach that will prove vital in addressing current and rapidly evolving challenges in the decades to come.

The Bottom Line: The Next Step: Ecosystem-based Fisheries Management

Tue, 07 May 2013 13:40:00 GMT

Although we’ve made remarkable progress toward ending overfishing and restoring depleted populations, we have been missing the bigger picture by focusing on individual species—the marine version of missing the forest for the trees.

Federal Fish Law is On the Hook for Black Sea Bass Recovery

Mon, 20 May 2013 19:30:00 GMT

(Hilton Head Island Packet) In the South Atlantic, it's time to go fish for black sea bass. Fishery managers just raised the amount that can be caught this year after news that the species has recovered from decades of overfishing.

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