Delaware environmental groups and small businesses are urging state representatives to the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Council (ASMFC) to support the protection of the Atlantic Menhaden.

ASMFC, which helps manage fisheries for Atlantic coastal states, is voting on November 14 on whether or not to provide stronger protections to the fish.

Many consider the Menhaden crucial to the Atlantic ecosystem, including the Delaware Bay, as well as an important food source.

“Menhaden are an important link in our ecosystem’s food web. Menhaden are a forage fish with predators such as bluefish, whales, and osprey, relying on them to live. Managing fish to benefit the ecosystem now rather than later will protect menhaden from overfishing, provide for predator needs, and help to restore the health of this important resource,” said Chris Klarich, campaign manager for the Delaware Nature Society.
The vote will determine whether an amendment is made to the Interstate Fishery Management Plan for Atlantic Menhaden. Delaware has a key voice in the decision, according to the National Wildlife Federation.