Notice of Groundfish and Nearshore Fisheries Informational Meetings

The Ca. DFG has scheduled three meetings for the purpose of receiving public input on proposed management measures affecting California groundfish and nearshore fisheries commencing January 1, 2001. The proposals are under consideration by the CA DFG Commission and the Pacific Fishery Management Council.

Information will be provided at the meetings on:

1. The status of CA groundfish and nearshore finfish stocks
2. Adopted or proposed plans to rebuild over fished stocks
3. Allowable catch levels the have been adopted or proposed for the various ground fish species or near shore species groups found off CA.
4. The specific management measures that will be considered for implementation in CA fisheries effective 1/1/2001.

Opportunities will be provided at each meeting for the public to comment on the proposed measurers. Meeting summaries will be provided to the Commission and Council for use in their deliberations. Meeting details follow.

October 10, 2000 - 9 am -3 pm. Sacramento Convention Center, 1030 15th Street, Sacramento, CA

October 11, 2000 - San Luis Obispo

October 19, 2000 7 pm- 9 pm. Hubbs Sea World Research Institute
Shedd Auditorium
2595 Ingraham Street
San Diego

Issues Being Considered:

• Reduce lingcod bag limit from two to one.
• Increase minimum size for cabezon from 14 to 15 - 18.
• Provide for transport of recreational fin fish through closed areas under terms and conditions specified on an annual permit that may be issued by the Manger of the region.
• Require that operators of party boats carry and cooperate with Department and Federal fishery observers on trips
• Prohibit fishing for and retention of cowcod
• Prohibit recreational fishing year round for federal groundfish per suggestions