Oregon recreational crabbers can learn about a proposed regulation change for recreational crabbing gear and provide their input at an upcoming public meeting hosted by ODFW on July 24 from 7 -8 p.m. in the Hennings Auditorium, Hatfield Marine Science Center, 2030 SE Marine Science Dr, Newport.

The proposed regulation would require recreational crabbers to permanently mark their surface buoys for crab pots or rings with information identifying the owner of the gear. The regulation is to help with ODFW efforts to learn more about whale entanglements in fishing gear. A final decision on any proposed regulation is expected to be made by the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission at their Sept. 13 meeting in Gold Beach.

ODFW will also discuss and gather input on other potential gear recommendations for future regulations such as durable buoys, sinking line, and escape rings.

For more information on the ODFW Shellfish program, visit the website: http://www.dfw.state.or.us/mrp/shellfish/

Contact:
Elizabeth Perotti, 541-867-0300 x229, Elizabeth.A.Perotti@state.or.us 
Michelle Dennehy, (503) 947-6022, Michelle.N.Dennehy@state.or.us