Jonah Crab Success Story

Early last month, commercial fishermen, industry leaders, fishery managers, and scientists celebrated the success of a unique collaboration. Together, the group advocated for the management of the region’s Jonah crab harvest — a fishery which had no control measures, until now.

The group’s three-year effort, initiated by Delhaize America and facilitated by GMRI, resulted in a new management plan for this important local fishery.

“This is a terrific example of industry collaboration,” said Josanna Busby, Seafood Category Manager for Delhaize America, parent company of Hannaford Supermarkets. “We are proud to have been a part of a successful partnership.”

New management strategies will include size limits, protection of females, licensing requirements, and trap limits. Many states have already implemented these strategies, which will be in effect along the entire East Coast by June 1.