NMFS Northeast Regional Office

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NORTHEAST COMMERCIAL SEA SCALLOPING
NOT JEOPARDIZING CONTINUED
EXISTENCE OF SEA TURTLES

Gloucester, MA -- NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries Service (NOAA Fisheries) today issued a biological opinion that evaluates the effects of the sea scallop fishery on species that are listed under the ESA. The opinion concludes that the Atlantic sea scallop fishery is not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of loggerhead and leatherback sea turtles. Loggerhead sea turtles are listed as threatened, and leatherbacks as endangered under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Download the opinion here.

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NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries Service is dedicated to protecting and preserving our nation’s living marine resources and their habitat through scientific research, management and enforcement. NOAA Fisheries provides effective stewardship of these resources for the benefit of the nation, supporting coastal communities that depend upon them, and helping to provide safe and healthy seafood to consumers and
recreational opportunities for the American public.

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