The Virginia Marine Resources Commission invites public comment on proposed amendments to regulations, as shown below. By April 3, 2025, the proposed draft regulations may be viewed on the VMRC web calendar at https://mrc.virginia.gov/calendar.shtm.
In accordance with Section 28.2-209 of the Code of Virginia, a public hearing on the proposed amendments to these regulations will be held on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at the Virginia Marine Resources Commission, 380 Fenwick Road, Bldg. 96, Fort Monroe, Virginia.
Written public comments on the proposals below or on items not on the agenda must be provided by 11:59 PM, Thursday, April 17, 2025. Comments should be made at the following link: https://webapps.mrc.virginia.gov/public/fisheries/search_publiccomments.php, or addressed to Public Comments, 380 Fenwick Road, Bldg. 96, Fort Monroe, Virginia 23651.
I. Chapter 4VAC20-490, “Pertaining to Sharks”
The Commission proposes to amend Chapter 4VAC20-490, “Pertaining to Sharks” to prohibit overnight soaks for Virginia spiny dogfish permit holders on gillnets with 5.25-to-10-inch mesh from November 1 through March 31 in specified areas in Virginia coastal waters.
The purpose of these amendments is to comply with Addendum VII of the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission’s Spiny Dogfish Fishery Management Plan and the Spiny Dogfish Framework Adjustment 6 from the Mid-Atlantic Fisheries Management Council. This action will maintain consistency between the federal and interstate FMPs.
I. Chapter 4VAC20-1190, “Pertaining to Gill Net Control Date” and Chapter 4VAC20-1090, “Pertaining to Licensing Requirements and License Fees”.
The Commission proposes to amend Chapter 4VAC20-1190, “Pertaining to Gill Net Control Date” to establish an extended drift gill gear license (up to 6,000 ft) and to develop associated gear requirements, season and time restrictions.
The Commission proposes to amend Chapter 4VAC20-1090, “Pertaining to Licensing Requirements and License Fees” to establish an extended drift gill net license up to 6,000 feet and associated fee.
The purpose of these amendments is to sustainably manage an increasing abundance of pelagic species observed in the bay and coastal waters, and to create additional opportunities for the commercial industry.
VMRC DOES NOT DISCRIMINATE AGAINST INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES; THEREFORE, IF YOU ARE IN NEED OF REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS BECAUSE OF A DISABILITY, PLEASE ADVISE MICHELE GUILFORD (757-247-2206) NO LATER THAN FIVE WORK DAYS PRIOR TO THE MEETING DATE AND IDENTIFY YOUR NEEDS.
