FISHERIES:

I. Chapter 4VAC20-490-10 et seq., “Pertaining to Sharks”

The Commission proposes to amend Chapter 4VAC20-490-10 et seq., “Pertaining to Sharks” to reclassify the oceanic whitetip shark from the commercially and recreationally permitted shark list to the commercially and recreationally prohibited shark list.

The purpose of these amendments is to mirror state regulations with federal regulations set by NOAA.

SHELLFISHERIES:

I. Chapter 4VAC20-720-10 et seq., “Pertaining to Restrictions on Oyster Harvest”

The Commission proposes to amend Chapter 4VAC20-720-10 et seq., “Pertaining to Restrictions on Oyster Harvest" to establish the 2024-2025 areas of public harvest, public oyster harvest seasons, and oyster resource conservation measures.

In accordance with Section 28.2-203, 28-2-506, and 28.2-524 of the Code of Virginia, the purpose of these amendments is to manage the Virginia public oyster fishery for sustainable harvest and to prevent overfishing.

A copy of the draft regulations (on August 8) and draft evaluations (on August 23) for the amendments can be found at https://mrc.virginia.gov/calendar.shtm