Policy Advocacy

Engaging with federal and regional fisheries managers to advance policies that serve our members and communities.

Policy Engagement

ASPN works to ensure that harvest opportunities for fishermen reflect stock abundance, that regulations support economically successful fisheries, and that coastal communities benefit from sustainable fishing.

Our advocacy is grounded in science, driven by member input, and focused on durable policies that balance conservation with economic viability.

Policy Priorities

Harvest Opportunity

Advocating for catch limits that reflect abundance while maintaining the biological sustainability of stocks and supporting local fishing communities.

Market Access

Supporting policies that expand markets for domestic small pelagics through trade agreements, procurement programs, and consumer demand initiatives.

Working Waterfront Investment

Supporting funding and infrastructure programs that strengthen ports, processing facilities, and community resilience in fishing-dependent coastal areas.

Environmental Stewardship

Advocating for ecosystem-informed management, bycatch mitigation, and climate-adaptive policies that protect marine resources for future generations.

Policy Advocacy

Engaging with federal and regional fisheries managers to advance policies that support sustainable fisheries and coastal communities.

Current Policy Issues

Atlantic Menhaden Allocation & Harvest

Engaging with the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission on menhaden management, allocation, and conservation strategies.

Atlantic Herring Management

Working with the New England Fishery Management Council on Atlantic herring, including catch limits and the bait supply that New England's lobster fishery depends on.

Mackerel, Squid & Butterfish

Working with the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council on the fishery management plan covering mackerel, longfin and shortfin squid, and butterfish.

Trade & International Markets

Supporting trade agreements and market development initiatives that increase demand for domestically harvested small pelagics.

Climate & Ocean Acidification

Advancing research and adaptive management strategies that help small pelagic fisheries respond to changing ocean conditions.

Join ASPN

Become part of the network representing America's small pelagic fisheries and coastal communities.

Join ASPN