Georgia DNR Commissioner Mark Williams recently announced that the U.S. Secretary of Commerce has requested Georgia Governor Nathan Deal provide nominations for the state’s obligatory and at-large seats on the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council). This action is pursuant to the requirements of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (P.L. 94-265).  Governor Deal's nominees must be residents of Georgia and knowledgeable regarding the science, conservation and management of fishery resources of the geographical area of the Council. The Secretary of Commerce is particularly interested in diversifying the councils through the appointment of women and minorities.

Please submit your nominee and their biography no later than Monday, February 12, 2018

Nominations can be emailed (Tamara.Gane@dnr.ga.gov) or via US Mail to:

Georgia Department of Natural Resources

1 Conservation Way

Brunswick, GA 31520

Attn: Tamara Gane

Nominees should be aware of the following_: the Council meets four weeks per year to review scientific information and develop fishery management plans. Meetings are rotated to occur in each of the member states.  Travel expenses are reimbursed by the SAFMC, with non-governmental members receiving a per diem compensation at a GS 15/Step 7 level. Appointments are for three_-year terms, with the possibility for reappointment. Council members may be required to participate in committee meetings, public hearings and industry meetings conducted in their state.  It is imperative that nominees be willing and able to commit the time required for council service.

Additional information on the councils may be found at:

SAFMC.net 

FisheryCouncils.org 

For questions, contact Doug.Haymans@dnr.ga.gov or (912) 264-7218.