2006 COMMERCIAL HORSESHOE CRAB HARVEST

The Secretary of Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) pursuant to Code of Maryland Regulation 08.02.10.01 has announced the opening of the 2006 commercial horseshoe crab fishery. The fishery will open on April 3, 2006 and continue as described in regulation.

The Secretary may, by public notice, alter the catch limits or close the season if the catch rates exceed expectations, the allowable catch is taken earlier than expected or Addendum IV to the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission Interstate Fishery Management Plan for Horseshoe Crab is approved with a requirement that Maryland’s 2006 harvest be reduced.

C. Ronald Franks
Secretary
Maryland Department of Natural Resources