Recreational angler, commercial castnetter sought for DNR advisory panels

Tue, 03/12/2024 - 12:00

Provided photo by Bobby Haven.

BRUNSWICK, Ga. (March 12, 2024) -- The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is seeking applicants to fill one seat each on the Finfish Advisory Panel and the Shrimp Advisory Panel.

These panels provide DNR’s Coastal Resources Division (CRD) with valuable insights on fisheries management and conservation. Applicants with knowledge in recreational or commercial fishing, marine biology, fisheries science, or coastal conservation are encouraged to apply.

The Finfish Advisory Panel opening is for a recreational angler residing in a southern coastal county (McIntosh, Glynn, or Camden). Applicants must possess a current Georgia recreational fishing license and SIP permit, and cannot hold a commercial fishing license.

The Shrimp Advisory Panel opening is for a commercial shrimp castnetter. Applicants must have held a Georgia Resident Commercial Fishing license for the past two years, reported shrimp landings, and possess all required state permits.

"The Finfish and Shrimp Advisory Panels are crucial partners in ensuring the sustainability of Georgia's fisheries," said Kathy Knowlton, a CRD programmatic support specialist who coordinates the advisory panels. "The insights from both the recreational and commercial fishing communities, combined with scientific expertise, are vital for developing science-based management practices that protect our valuable fisheries for generations to come."

These advisory panels are part of a larger Marine Fisheries Advisory Council that advises the CRD on various fisheries programs.

Interested individuals are encouraged to apply by April 12, 2024. For more information and to apply, visit CoastalGaDNR.org/CitizenAdvisoryGroups. To directly download the PDF application, click here. Return the application to Kathy Knowlton, CRD programmatic support specialist, at Kathy.knowlton@dnr.ga.gov or One Conservation Way, Brunswick, GA 31520. Applicants may also submit a cover letter.

Anyone with questions may also contact Knowlton at the email above or by calling 912-264-7218.

Download the Advisory Panel Application

About the Coastal Resources Division

The mission of the Coastal Resources Division is to balance coastal development and protection of the coast's natural assets, socio-cultural heritage and recreational resources for the benefit of present and future generations.