PUBLIC NOTICE   |   Public Hearing on Proposed Blue Crab Regulations

PUBLIC NOTICE
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources
Fishing and Boating Services
Public Hearing on Proposed Blue Crab Regulations

Pursuant to Natural Resources Article, §4-803, Annotated Code of Maryland, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Fisheries Service has scheduled a public hearing on the proposed recreational blue crab regulations on November 5, 2013 at 6pm in the C-1 Conference Room of the Tawes State Office Bldg, 580 Taylor Ave., Annapolis, MD 21401.

The proposed action amends Chesapeake Bay recreational crab regulations to improve the sustainability of blue crab and Diamondback terrapin resources. The proposed action is specific to Chesapeake Bay and its tidal tributaries, and does not apply to Maryland coastal bays. Specifically, the action: maintains license exemptions for individuals who want to handline or dipnet for crabs, but now requires a license for the use of collapsible traps, net rings or a seine; requires individuals that set crab pots from private shoreline property to obtain a free registration; clarifies crab pot use; standardizes the catch limit for an unlicensed recreational crabber whether crabbing from a boat or the shore; and clarifies the complimentary crabbing license, and setting and marking gear.

For more information regarding this proposal, visit: http://www.dnr.maryland.gov/fisheries/regulations/proposedregulations.asp. All interested parties are invited to attend and give their views. Sign language interpreters and other appropriate accommodations for individuals with disabilities will be provided upon request.

Contact tamara.o'connell for more information.

Joseph P. Gill
Secretary
Maryland Department of Natural Resources