Marine Fisheries Commission Seeks Sea Mullet Advsiors

[NCangler]

MOREHEAD CITY- The North Carolina Marie Fisheries Commission is looking for interested individuals to serve as advisors in developing the Sea Mullet Fishery Management Plan (FMP).

Sea mullet, also known as kingfish or Virginia mullet, are an important recreational and commercial species in North Carolina. Three species of sea mullet occur in state waters, southern, northern and gulf kingfish.

The advisory committee will be composed of representatives from the commercial, recreational and scientific communities to assist in developing long-term management goals for the three species of sea mullet.

FMP’s include information on the nature and concerns of the fishery, habitat and water quality issues, and status of the stock. The FMP will be prepared by the Division of Marine Fisheries.

Individuals interested in serving as advisors should be willing to attend meetings at least once every two months and actively participate in the committee process. Advisors will be reimbursed for travel and other expenses incurred in relation to their official duties.

Advisor applications are available at Division of Marine Fisheries’ offices or by calling 252-726-7021 or 800-682-2632. The advisory committee is scheduled to begin meeting in December. Applications should be returned by October 26, 2005 to the Division of Marine Fisheries, P.O. Box 769, Morehead City, North Carolina 28557. Attention: Jess Hawkins.

For information about sea mullet and the advisory committee process, please contact John Schoolfield by e-mail at John.Schoolfield@ncmail.net or Chip Collier by e-mail at Chip.Collier@ncmail.net or by calling 910-769-7125 or 800-248-4536.