The Division of Marine Fisheries (MarineFisheries) will hold three public meetings the week of April 1st to gather comment on a public information document detailing proposed use of groundfish assistance funds. The 2008 Congressional Appropriations Conference Report set aside $13,395,000 to the Division of Marine Fisheries to alleviate economic impacts associated with Framework 42 regulations on the Massachusetts groundfish fishery.

The Division of Marine Fisheries (MarineFisheries) is working with a state Drafting Group and an Industry Subcommittee to develop a final grant proposal for these funds. Preliminary recommendations for funding will be presented during the public meetings. A final grant proposal will be submitted to NOAA Fisheries by April 15th.

Public meetings are schedule for:

Tuesday, April 1, 2008 (5:30PM)
Whaler Banquet and Conference Center
500 Hathaway Road, New Bedford

Wednesday, April 2, 2008 (5:30PM)
Radisson Hotel – Plymouth Harbor
180 Water St., Plymouth

Thursday, April 3, 2008 (5:30PM)
Annisquam River Marine Fisheries Station
30 Emerson Ave., Gloucester

For further information please visit the “Groundfish Assistance Program” spotlight on our website at: http://www.mass.gov/dfwele/dmf/spotlight/groundfish_assistance.htm#spot