Pilot Program: Combating Invasive Blue Catfish in Chesapeake Bay and supporting watermen.
This Act establishes a pilot program (2027-2029) aimed at controlling the invasive blue catfish population in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. The program subsidizes entities that manufacture pet food, animal feed, or aquaculture feed to purchase the catfish from local watermen at a minimum price set by the Secretary of Commerce. For citizens, this means potential support for the local fishing economy and efforts to protect the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem, which may affect the availability and prices of other seafood.
Key points
Financial support for watermen: Watermen catching blue catfish in the Chesapeake Bay will be able to sell it at a minimum price set by the Secretary of Commerce, stabilizing their income.
Combating invasive species: The program aims to reduce the population of the invasive blue catfish, which threatens other species in the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem.
Subsidies for processors: Companies producing pet food, animal feed, and aquaculture feed will receive funds to purchase the harvested catfish, with up to 15% of the funds usable for transportation costs.
Duration and budget: The pilot program will run from January 1, 2027, through December 31, 2029, with $2 million authorized annually for its operation.
Status:
Placed on Calendar
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