Advisory Groups

Advisory Groups

When reviewing potential rule changes, the Council draws upon the services of knowledgeable people from state and federal agencies, universities, and the public, who serve on panels and committees. Advisory bodies provide comments, both written and oral, on relevant issues being considered by the Council.

Advisory Panel (AP)
The Council receives advice at each meeting from a 20-member Advisory Panel representing user groups, environmentalists, recreational fishermen, and consumer groups.

Scientific and Statistical Committee (SCC)
The Council also receives reviews and recommendations from highly respected resource economists and biologists who are knowledgeable about the technical aspects of fisheries of Alaska.

Plan Teams
T he Council has teams of scientists and managers that review annually the status of the Fishery Management Plans. BSAI Groundfish, GOA Groundfish, Scallop and Crab plan team members are appointed by the Council.

There are also ad hoc Committees, which focus on specific timely topics and are appointed to advise the Council on a single issue. Meetings of the various advisory bodies are open to the public. Anyone may attend and provide comments for the public record. Written comments are also accepted and considered by the Council.