Virginia scientists would study menhaden to guide Chesapeake Bay fishing limits

The Virginia Institute of Marine Science would study Atlantic menhaden and produce an annual report. Research would examine Chesapeake Bay menhaden numbers, movement, predator needs, fishing patterns, and whether particular areas have too few menhaden. The institute would use money received by the dedicated fund. Research would involve a commission, anglers, commercial fishing businesses, and nongovernmental groups. The annual report would include findings, recommendations, and a spending proposal for the following year. Reports would go to designated legislative committee chairs, the state natural resources secretary, and fisheries groups by October 1 each year, beginning in 2027.

The state treasury would hold money in the Atlantic Menhaden Research Fund. The fund would receive any state money set aside for it, gifts, grants, and other contributions. Money could be spent only for the research and reporting work required by the bill. Payments would require a written request signed by the institute’s Dean and Director. The bill does not set aside a specific amount of state money. At the end of each budget year, remaining money would stay in the fund instead of returning to the state’s general fund.

The Menhaden Management Advisory Committee would contribute analysis and recommendations about workers to the annual report. The analysis would cover possible effects on workers from changes in allowed menhaden catches in the Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay. The committee would consult the Department of Workforce Development and Advancement. The requirement calls for recommendations about retraining and support; it does not itself provide those services.