SOUTH PORTLAND, Maine - A key federal panel is set to make a recommendation about the future of the Gulf of Maine's declining cod fish stock.
Scientists at the U.S. National Marine Fisheries Service say the amount of cod spawning in the Gulf is estimated at only 3 to 4 percent of its target level. That number represents a decline from 13 to 18 percent three years ago. The federal New England Fishery Management Council is working on new management measures for the fish. Measures could include a potential new quota for the 2015-16 fishing season that begins May 1.
The New England Fishery Management Council's Groundfish Oversight Committee will meet Wednesday to discuss a recommendation. The full council will consider the recommendation at its meeting later this month.