Rep. Earl L. Carter, US Representative for Georgia's 1st District | Official U.S. House headshot
Rep. Earl L. Carter, US Representative for Georgia's 1st District | Official U.S. House headshot
Rep. Earl L. "Buddy" Carter of Georgia has expressed concerns regarding a proposed rule by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) that could significantly impact recreational fishing in coastal Georgia. In a letter addressed to U.S. Department of Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, Carter highlighted the potential economic repercussions of the regulation, which aims to limit fishing for several species, including red snapper.
The proposal, known as Amendment 59 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Snapper-Grouper Fishery of the South Atlantic, seeks to restrict recreational bottom fishing for 55 species during December through February.
Carter criticized the rule as being "ill-conceived" and inconsistent with expert decisions from the South Atlantic Fisheries Management Council. He emphasized that it would negatively affect both residents and the economy in his congressional district.
"Recreational fishing is big business in Coastal Georgia," Carter stated, noting that shortened fishing seasons for red snapper are detrimental to tourism at a time when these fish are reportedly abundant. He pointed out a disconnect between federal management practices and observations made by anglers on site.
NOAA's current data on this matter is reportedly inaccurate by 30-40%, rendering it unsuitable for effective management decisions according to their own estimates.
The full text of Rep. Carter's letter is available online.
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