News Summary
In response to a failed shrimp trawling ban, Dare County officials are pushing for the creation of the ‘North Carolina Coastal Counties Fisheries Coalition’. Led by Chairman Bob Woodard, the coalition aims to unite coastal communities to address challenges facing the fishing industry. The proposal comes after strong opposition to the ban, which raised concerns about its impact on local seafood production and fishing livelihoods. Local fishermen and industry leaders emphasize the importance of collaboration to protect both the economy and the environment in the region.
Nags Head, NC – In the aftermath of a failed bill that sought to ban shrimp trawling along the North Carolina coast, Dare County officials are advocating for the formation of the “North Carolina Coastal Counties Fisheries Coalition.” The proposal, spearheaded by Dare County Board of Commissioners Chairman Bob Woodard, aims to unify the voices of coastal communities in addressing and advocating for the fishing industry.
The controversial legislation, which suggested a ban on shrimp trawling, was halted in the North Carolina House of Representatives at the end of June. Woodard’s initiative comes in response to the opposition faced by the shrimp trawling ban, which witnessed a strong turnout from fishing community members who rallied in Raleigh to express their concerns.
Woodard has reached out to county representatives in eastern North Carolina, seeking their participation in this proposed coalition. The intent behind this coalition is to streamline collaboration among coastal counties, thus enhancing their ability to tackle issues surrounding the fishing industry, which has historical economic significance in the region.
Support for the coalition is echoed by Glenn Skinner, the executive director of the North Carolina Fisheries Association. Skinner believes that the coalition could effectively improve communication and resources needed to confront challenges facing the fishing sector, particularly with concerns about misinformation that threatens the industry’s reputation and viability.
Both Woodard and Skinner are cognizant of the likelihood of additional legislation affecting both commercial and recreational fishing in North Carolina in the near future. They emphasize proactive measures to foster industry health and resilience in the wake of continuously evolving regulations.
Previously, one significant provision included in a bill originally aimed at restoring flounder and red snapper fishing seasons proposed the prohibition of shrimp trawling within one-half mile of the shore. This amendment, which critics argue could cripple approximately 75% of the state’s shrimping operations, has drawn substantial backlash from fishermen and local officials. They contend that such restrictions would lead to devastating impacts on local seafood production, endangering both livelihoods and the cultural heritage associated with the fishing industry.
Local fishermen, including individuals like Robby Midgett and John Silver, have vocalized their fears regarding the loss of their primary source of income. They stress the implications for future generations of fishing families, arguing that the amendment fundamentally threatens an industry integral to their way of life.
On the other side of the debate, State Senator Bill Rabon and others who support the ban claim it is essential for the protection of habitats along the coast and is in line with similar practices adopted by neighboring states. This perspective suggests that habitat conservation is a crucial element of the legislation, despite the associated economic concerns raised by industry representatives.
Furthermore, the proposal includes discussions of a compensation plan aimed at assisting shrimpers in their transition to new regulations, although discussions are still ongoing regarding the specifics of this support.
The current bill, which includes these provisions targeting shrimp trawling, has successfully passed the Senate and is awaiting evaluation in the House of Representatives. As the situation develops, stakeholders from both sides are preparing for the implications of this legislative process on the future of fishing in North Carolina.
The Dare County Board of Commissioners and the proposed coalition strive to protect the economic interests of coastal communities while navigating the complex intersection of environmental protection and industry sustainability. The upcoming weeks will be pivotal in determining the fate of both the coalition and the anticipated legislation impacting the fishing industry.
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Additional Resources
- WTKR: Proposed Coalition to N.C. Coastal Counties Seeks to Protect Fishing Industry
- WSOCTV: Bill Banning Shrimp Trawling Along Coast Passes Senate
- WTKR: Controversial N.C. Shrimp Trawling Bill Passes Senate, Outer Banks Continues to Voice Opposition
- Charlotte Observer: Shrimp Trawling Debate in North Carolina
- Google Search: North Carolina Shrimp Trawling
Author: STAFF HERE OUTER BANKS WRITER
The OBX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOBX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in the Outer Banks, Dare County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Outer Banks Seafood Festival, NC VIP Fishing Tournament, and NCBBA Red Drum Tournament. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce and Outer Banks Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in tourism, retail, and hospitality that power the local economy such as Kitty Hawk Kites, Outer Banks Mall, and Avon Fishing Pier. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HERERaleigh.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
