North Wake News

Changes to 18 rules by the Marine Fisheries Commission have taken effect today. Five of these amendments focus on data collection and harassment prevention related to marine and estuarine resource conservation. Additionally, one rule aims to streamline the administration of shellfish leases. The remaining adjustments eliminate outdated requirements while making minor clarifications.

The Marine Fisheries Commission adopted these rules in May 2024, but they needed legislative review under G.S. 14-4.1 before implementation.

Regarding data collection and harassment prevention, amendments to 15A NCAC 03I .0113 expand protections for DEQ Division of Marine Fisheries employees against verbal, physical, or sexual harassment during their data-gathering activities related to marine resources and shellfish sanitation health and safety. Changes in four associated rules (15A NCAC 03O .0101, .0109, .0112, .0301) emphasize the necessity for fishermen's cooperation with Division data collection programs. These amendments aim to ensure a safer working environment for Division employees while emphasizing the significance of participation from those involved in regulated fishing activities.

For shellfish leases and the Shellfish Relay Program, changes to rule 15A NCAC 03O .0201 mandate that shellfish leaseholders meet production, marking, and permit criteria for eligibility regarding additional lease acreage. This is intended to optimize public trust bottom use efficiently. The repeal of certain outdated requirements reflects the discontinuation of the Division Polluted Area Shellfish Relay Program in 2024.

Amendments to commercial shellfish sanitation and processing procedures (15A NCAC 18A .0302) clarify information required on commercial shellfish permit applications while updating language for consistency with current rules.

The full text of these rules is available in the March 24, 2025 Supplement to the N.C. Marine Fisheries Commission Rulebook at https://deq.nc.gov/DMF-Rules.

Inquiries about these changes can be directed via email to Catherine Blum, rules coordinator for the Division of Marine Fisheries.