Maryland's Task Force on Fisheries Management recently submitted its recommendations for managing the state's valuable fishery resources. The group was tasked with evaluating the current management of Maryland’s fishery resources and presenting recommendations for improvement.

Appointed by Governor Martin O'Malley, Gallagher partner Thomas B. Lewis chaired the 17-member group which was established by the General Assembly in 2007.

The Report of the Task Force on Fishery Management seeks to create a sustainable balance between commercial fishing and responsible ecological stewardship. It offers more than 30 specific recommendations on habitat preservation and restoration, fisheries stock monitoring and assessment, data management, fishery management, legal issues, and enforcement.

“Enforcing fishing laws and regulations, and protecting and restoring habitat are critical issues facing fisheries conservation in Maryland,” said Mr. Lewis. “Without quality habitat, other efforts to improve fisheries management and protection will be of limited value. Additionally, in order to successfully meet current and future fisheries management challenges, stronger enforcement – on the ground, in the water, and in the courts is desperately needed. Without enforcement, even the best fishery management plans are doomed to fail.”

The General Assembly will consider the Task Force recommendations during the 2009 legislative session.