PUBLIC NOTICE
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources
Fishing and Boating Services
Extension of Chesapeake Bay Commercial Mature Female Hard Crab Season

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) announces the extension of the commercial mature female hard crab season for 2012 for the Chesapeake Bay and its tidal tributaries pursuant to COMAR 08.02.03.14. The season, which was previously scheduled to close on November 10, 2012, will now close on November 17, 2012. The purpose of this action is to replace lost crabbing opportunities due to Hurricane Sandy. The result will be that mature female hard crabs will be harvested approximately the same number of days as they would have been if there had been no storm and the season closed on November 10. The bushel limits for November and crew requirements remain unchanged.

Contact lfegley for more information.

John R. Griffin
Maryland Department of Natural Resources

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