http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/ en-us rkron@lsu.edu mdufou1@lsu.edu http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2014/03-14.htm Cold Weather Crawfish – Louisianans associate Mardi Gras and early spring with eating crawfish. It has become a tradition and a part of our rich culture. However, through early March of 2014, crawfish have been in short supply, therefore very expensive. Tue, 11 Mar 2014 09:26 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2014.htm Stop. Hammertime!; Louisiana Saltwater Series; Louisiana Opens 2014 Recreational Red Snapper Season in State Waters; Recreational Red Snapper Federal Fishing Regulations in the Gulf of Mexico; Louisiana Shrimp Watch; The Gumbo Pot – Perfect Boiled Shrimp Mon 3 Mar 2014 10:52 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2014.htm Volunteers Needed for The Derelict Crab Trap Clean-up ;Workshop on Crab Shedding February 24; Ecotourism Workshop Feb. 11; Shrimp Refrigeration Cost-Share Program; Free Fishing Weekend; Artificial Reef Plan for Public Comment; Commercial King Mackerel Season; Cost Sharing Program for the Electronic Logbook (ELB) Program; Louisiana Shrimp Watch; The Gumbo Pot – Warm Crab Dip with Four Cheeses Tues 4 Feb 2014 02:24 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2014/01-14.htm Ecotourism Workshop Feb. 11, 2014 – The LSU AgCenter and Louisiana Sea Grant will sponsor a daylong workshop on Feb. 11 for people interested in ecotourism and agriculture tourism. Mon, 27 Jan 2014 03:21 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2014.htm Rockin’ Robin; Yo-Yo and Trotline Regulations; The 2014 Red Snapper Recreational Season; Headboat Collaborative Pilot Program; Louisiana Shrimp Watch; Louisiana Blue Crab Watch; The Gumbo Pot – Grilled Gulf Shrimp With Prosciutto Rosemary And Garlic Mon 7 Jan 2014 02:54 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2013/12-13.htm Marine Debris – Rutherford Beach - A class of 30 fourth graders from Upper Pointe Coupee Elementary traveled to Cameron Parish in November to learn about watersheds, wetlands, the environment and how marine debris impacts nature. The students came to learn more about the coast and how they affect it. At Rockefeller Refuge they discussed and learned about watersheds and how trash reaches the Gulf of Mexico and Louisiana’s coast. Wed, 11 Dec 2013 10:48 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2013/castnetclass.htm Louisiana Sea Grant’s Marine Education Program is hosting cast net making classes beginning Thursday, May 9, and continuing every Thursday for 12 weeks from 6:00 p.m. to sunset. Tue, 9 Apr 2013 9:24 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2013/01-13.htm Seafood Processor Trainings - A set of training courses will be offered to seafood processors on Jan. 22 and Jan. 23-25. Mon, 7 Jan 2013 10:05 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2012/12-12.htm West Cove Oysters - The 2012-13 oyster harvesting season in the West Cove portion of the Calcasieu Lake Public Oyster Area (DHH Harvest Area 30) began Nov. 1. The sack limit during this time period is set at 10 sacks per person, per vessel, per day. The east side of Calcasieu Lake (DHH Harvest Area 29) and the Sabine Lake Public Oyster Area will remain closed for the entire 2012--13 oyster season. Mon, 10 Dec 2012 14:08 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2012.htm The Business of Louisiana Alligator – Part One: From Rice to Gators; Elmer’s Island Remains Closed to the Public; LDWF Launches Oyster Refrigeration Program First Phase of Department’s Seafood Technology and Equipment Program; Proposed Rule Withdrawn to Require TEDs in Certain Shrimp Trawls; Louisiana Shrimp Watch; The Gumbo Pot – Shrimp and Andouille Pot Pie Tues 4 Dec 2012 15:01 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2012/11-12.htm Seabob Harvesting and TEDs - The seabob shrimp fishery off of Cameron Parish is arguably one of the biggest seabob harvest areas in the Gulf of Mexico. Compared to other shrimp fisheries in the U.S., it is small. Yet it is important to the fishing industry of Cameron. Seabob landings in Cameron comprise about half of the port’s pounds of shrimp landed. Mon, 12 Nov 2012 14:58 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2012.htm State to Launch Official “Louisiana Certified Seafood” Brand; Largemouth Bass in the Atchafalaya Basin; Public Oyster Areas; Commercial Net Season to Begin on False River on Nov. 1; Final Rule: Gulf of Mexico Reef Fish Permit Income Requirement and Dual-permitted CrewSize: Small Entity Compliance Guide; Louisiana Shrimp Watch; Fish Gear Coordinates; The Gumbo Pot – Coconut-Battered Shrimp with Orange Marmalade Dipping Sauce; Mond 5 Nov 2012 12:05 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2012.htm Commercial Fishing Vessel Regulations; VMS Pilot Program for Public Seed Ground Oyster Vessels; USGS Flyover Shows Storm Damage and Marsh Dieback; Live Bait Availability To Saltwater Anglers; 2013 Crab Trap Removal Program; Louisiana Shrimp Watch; The Gumbo Pot – Kubuki Shrimp Wed 3 Oct 2012 14:48 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2012/lostcrabtraps.htm Crab traps can be lost to storms, accidental catch in other gear, vandalism and when ropes connecting floats to the mesh pots aresevered by the propellers of passing boats. These traps often continue to capture marine animals like blue crabs and other species in a process called ghost fishing. They also pose a navigation hazard and can damage fishing nets. Tue, 2 Oct 2012 9:17 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2012/09-12.htm Commercial Fishing Vessel Regulations - Beginning Oct. 16, 2012, all commercial fishing vessels operating more than three nautical miles offshore must be able to demonstrate full compliance with the existing fishing industry vessel safety regulations found in 46 C.F.R. Part 28, via a mandatory safety examination. Fri, 28 Sep 2012 12:12 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2012.htm Keep Live Bait Alive; Have You Lost Crab Traps?; Report Hurricane Isaac-Related Fish Kills; Prevent the Spread of Exotics; National Hunting and Fishing Day; 2012-2013 Louisiana Oyster Seasons; Portion of Coastal Waters Due to the Emergence of Oil on Adjacent Beaches; Commercial King Mackerel Season to Close August 22; Western Gulf of Mexico Closing to King Mackerel Commercial Fishing; News from Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council; Louisiana Shrimp Watch; The Gumbo Pot – Marinated Avocado Crawfish and Crab Salad Wed 12 Sep 2012 11:33 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2012.htm Twilley Named Louisiana Sea Grant Executive Director; Two New Data Collection Measures for the Recreational Harvest of Reef Fish; Changes to Calcasieu Lake Oyster Harvester Permits; Commercial Fishing for Large Coastal Sharks to Close in Louisiana Waters; Recreational Harvest of Greater Amberjack; Proposed Rule Modifying the Gulf of Mexico Greater Amberjack Rebuilding Plan; Louisiana Shrimp Watch; The Gumbo Pot – Galatoire’s Crabmeat Omelette Tue 31 Jul 2012 14:06 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2012/shrimpbrand.htm The Delcambre Direct Seafood program is unveiling a pilot frozen seafood product at the Delcambre Shrimp Festival, August 15 – 19. For the first time, local shrimpers will sell fresh-frozen shrimp to festivalgoers, Chef Patrick Mould will demonstrate recipes and offer samples, and fishermen will give talking tours at the dock. Fri, 27 Jul 2012 13:02 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2012.htm Derelict Crab Trap Cleanup Rodeos; Baitfish Workshop in Abbeville; Louisiana Crawfish: Harvesting Wild Crawfish and Farming Crawfish; Speckled Trout Seminar; Portion of Louisiana Offshore Territorial Waters Closed to Shrimping; Louisiana Inshore Waters to Close for Fall Shrimp Season; Officials Initiate Process to Create Free Recreational Permit for Yellowfin Tuna; Red Snapper Individual Fishing Quota (IFQ) Program; New Regulations for Spiny Lobster in the Gulf of Mexico and South Atlantic; Lagniappe Online; November 2011 Fish Gear Coordinates; Louisiana Shrimp Watch; The Gumbo Pot – Redfish au Gratin Wed 4 Jan 2012 13:32 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2011/baitfishworkshop4.htm Learn how to raise your own bait or more about a favorite baitfish during a Jan. 17 workshop hosted by Louisiana Sea Grant and the LSU AgCenter. Thu, 22 Dec 2011 11:19 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2011/12-11.htm Speckled Trout Seminar - The spotted seatrout, Cynoscion nebulosis, is the most sought after fish by Louisiana’s coastal anglers. From 1999 to 2001, the state’s anglers averaged landing 13.6 million spotted seatrout annually. Despite their recreational and economic importance, there are still many unknowns about the ecology and population dynamics of spotted seatrout in Louisiana coastal waters. Fri, 2 Dec 2011 14:28 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2011.htm A New Addition to Lagniappe; HACCP Letter to Industry for Fish and Fishery Products; Retail Seafood Sales; Native Fish in the Classroom Project; Whooping Crane Awareness; New Life to Pearl River; Farm Service Agency Borrower Training Program; Seed-oyster Harvest; The 2011 Gag Recreational Fishing Season Temporary Gag Regulations for the Federal Waters of the Gulf of Mexico to be Extended; Final Rule Changes to the Gulf of Mexico Reef Fish Individual Fishing Quota Program: Online Account Application Requirements; Fish Gear Coordinates; Louisiana Shrimp Watch; The Gumbo Pot Thu 1 Dec 2011 14:44 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2011/11-11.htm Flounder Spawning Run - The fall 2011 flounder run was quite robust with good catches showing up at commercial landing docks as well as in the ice chests of recreational anglers. For weeks, anglers lined the banks of the ship channel near the lower reaches of Calcasieu Pass to catch these delectable fish as they stage up before migration offshore to spawn. Tue, 29 Nov 2011 10:19 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2011/baitfishworkshop3.htm Learn how to raise your own bait or more about a favorite baitfish during a Dec. 8 workshop hosted by Louisiana Sea Grant and the LSU AgCenter. Wed, 23 Nov 2011 11:00 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2011.htm Tigers on the Rise; Wholesale Seafood Sales; GulfSource.org, Single Source Website for Seafood, Water and Sediment Safety Test Results; Seventy-Eight Fish Tagged at Speckled Trout Tournament Greater Amberjack Commercial Season; Oyster Season Closures in Hackberry Bay, Lake Chien and Lake Felicity Public Seed Grounds; $6,500 in Rewards to Tipsters; Commercial Fishing for Greater Amberjack; Commercial Quota for Gulf of Mexico Red Grouper; Proposed Rule to Implement Annual Catch Limits and Accountability Measures for Reef Fish, Red Drum, Shrimp and Coral Fisheries of the Gulf of Mexico; Louisiana Shrimp Watch; Fish Gear Coordinates; Fri 11 Nov 2011 13:57 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2011/communityforum.htm The Central Gulf of Mexico Center for Ocean Sciences Education Excellence (COSEE), housed at The University of Southern Mississippi’s Gulf Coast Research Lab (GCRL) is partnering with Louisiana Sea Grant, Audubon Aquarium of the Americas and Sci-Port: Louisiana’s Science Center to offer a Community Oil Spill Forum at each location on Saturday, November 19th. Wed, 9 Nov 2011 10:28 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2011/baitfishworkshop2.htm Learn how to raise your own bait or more about a favorite baitfish during a Nov. 17 workshop hosted by Louisiana Sea Grant and the LSU AgCenter. Mon, 31 Oct 2011 9:29 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2011/09-11.htm Calcasieu Oyster Permit - Oyster harvesters are reminded that the 2011-2012 Calcasieu Oyster Permit application may be submitted beginning September 26, 2011 at 9:00 am. The only submission method will be online. Tue, 20 Sep 2011 9:42 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2011.htm Yellowfin Tuna Tagging Program; Fishermen Cited In Federal Waters; License Still Needed to Hunt Feral Hogs; Online Application Process for Oyster Harvester Permits in Lake Calcasieu; Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission Modifies Rule for Harvest of Mullet; Rules for Recreational Harvest of Bluefin Tuna; Fall Shrimp Season; Gulf of Mexico Red Snapper Quota Increases; Commercial Quotas and Season Re-Opening Date for Greater Amberjack; Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council’s Ecosystem Scientific and Statistical Committee; Applicants to Serve on Ad Hoc Private Recreational Data Collection Advisory Panel; Louisiana Shrimp Watch; Fish Gear Coordinates Thu 1 Sep 2011 10:10 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2011.htm Cobia-The One and Only ; Teachers Complete WETSHOP Training Water Management Plan for Catahoula Lake; LDWF Releases 2010 Atchafalaya Basin Fishing Survey Results; Proposed Rules for Issuance of Calcasieu Lake Oyster Harvester Permit; No Drawdown Schedule for Lake D’Arbonne; 2011 Season for Gag Grouper; Commercial Fishing for Large Coastal Sharks to Close in Louisiana Waters; Property Owners Contending with Outlaw Quadrupeds, Nuisance Animals; Reopening Sherburne Wildlife Management Area; Comment on Proposed Draft Environmental Impact Statement for Generic Annual CatchLimits/Accountability Measures Amendment for the Gulf of Mexico; Red Snapper Season Ends July 19; Shrimp Fishery to Re-Opened Off Texas on July 15; Reef Fish Amendment 32 and Coastal Migratory Pelagics (Mackerel) Amendment 18; Proposed Generic Amendment to Establish Annual Catch Limits and Accountability Measuresfor Federally Managed Species; Public Comment to Repeal the FMP for the Stone Crab Fishery; Commercial Harvest of Black Sea Bass; Louisiana Shrimp Watch; Wed 3 Aug 2011 10:24 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2011/08-11.htm Cobia – The One and Only – On any offshore fishing trip, the excitement peaks when a cobia is spotted near the surface. Also known as ling or lemon fish, the cobia ( Rachycentron canadum ) is prized for its delicate, white, flaky fillets. Cobias are the only living species in their family and they have no close relatives. Found almost worldwide in tropical, subtropical and warm temperate waters, they are open-water fish, but tend to locate around pilings, buoys or drifting objects. They even orient themselves under sea turtles and floating boats. Cobias also appear to be attracted to noise. They range from saline bays inshore to offshore waters 4,000 feet deep. Mon, 1 Aug 2011 15:02 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2011/07-11.htm Red Snapper Season Ends July 19 – The recreational red snapper season which opened June 1 is scheduled for closure July 19. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries Service has projected the red snapper recreational quota will be harvested by July 18, 2011. The fishing season will close at 12:01 a.m. July 19. Mon, 18 Jul 2011 12:01 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2011.htm Louisiana Fisheries 2011 Legislative Update; Oyster Reef Rehabilitation; Summer Camp for Kids 12 to 16 Years Old; Construction Completed on Louisiana’s Largest Limestone Inshore Artificial Reef; Louisiana Boaters Can Take Free Boating Safety Course at Home; Local Anglers Take Home Top Prize at Louisiana Saltwater Series Fishing Tournament; Drawdown for Lake Bruin in Tensas Parish; 2011 Season for Gag Grouper; Environmental Impact Statement for Sea Turtle Conservation; South Atlantic Vermilion Snapper Commercial Fishery; Gulf Council to Convene Ad Hoc Reef Fish IFQ Advisory Panel; Public Comment on Draft Environmental Impact Statement for Grouper Management; Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council June Update; Reset of the 2011 GoM Commercial Gag Quota and Set a Recreational Gag; Black Sea Bass to Re-open in the South Atlantic; South Atlantic Snapper-Grouper Trip Limits and Bag Limit; Public Comment on Draft Environmental Impact Statement for South Atlantic Comprehensive Annual Catch Limit Amendment; Recreational Measures for Snowy Grouper, Golden Tilefish and Black Sea Bass; Louisiana Shrimp Watch; Fish Gear Coordinates May 2011; The Gumbo Pot – Crab Bisque a La Pittari’s Fri 8 Jul 2011 12:02 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2011/permit.htm Today the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission passed a notice of intent outlining a proposed rule to govern the issuance of a newly-required permit for commercial oyster harvest in Calcasieu Lake. Thu, 7 Jul 2011 12:39 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2011/oysterreef.htm Today, Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries biologists along with Louisiana Sea Grant scientists, deployed more than 100 million oyster larvae and 500,000 oyster spat (or oyster larvae larger than one-quarter inch). This joint effort between LDWF and LSG, is part of a $500,000 grant provided to Louisiana State University to help rehabilitate vital oyster grounds impacted by hurricanes in the last six years. Thu, 2 Jun 2011 11:42 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2011.htm Catch Shares and Sectors: Management vs. Separation; Second Stop on Louisiana Saltwater Series Tournament Trail; Relative Sea Level Rise; Cabela’s “Wanna Go Fishing for Millions” Partners with LDWF; Be Mindful of Wildlife Displaced by Flooding; First Annual Boating Education Lagniappe Day Certifies 264 Boaters; Remainder of State Waters Open to Shrimp Harvesting; 2011 Free Fishing Weekend in Louisiana Set for June 11-12; Commercial Fisheries Failure in Louisiana Requested; State Sets Season for Recreational Catch of Red Snapper; Greater Amberjack 2011 Commercial and Recreation Seasons Set; 2011 Alligator Lottery Hunts; State Closes Two Oyster Harvest Areas, Allows Some Oyster Relocation; Federal Waters off Texas Closed to Shrimping; Final Rule Re-Defines Actual Ex-Vessel Value, Extends the Annual Maintenance Window for the Individual Fishing Quota Online System and Removes Obsolete Grouper Regulations; Gulf of Mexico Reef Fish Bottom Longline Vessels Seasonal Closure; Gulf Fishery News; Federal Waters off South Carolina to Re-open to Shrimping; Fish Gear Coordinates Dec. 2010 - April 2011; Louisiana Shrimp Watch Thu 2 Jun 2011 11:13 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2011/05-11.htm Relative Sea Level Rise – Whether you believe that man has had any effect on earth’s climate or in global warming, the science is out there to show that the sea level along the Gulf coast is rising. The world’s oceans have been on the rise since the peak of the last ice age over 18,000 years ago. Sea level is rising along most of the U.S. coast and around the world. In the last century, sea level rose five to six inches more than the global average along the Mid-Atlantic and Gulf coasts because coastal lands there are subsiding. Wed, 25 May 2011 13:38 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2011/newrules.htm The U.S. catfish industry is facing new rules and regulations in animal health and product safety as a result of legislation included in the 2008 Farm Bill. Fri, 13 May 2011 10:51 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2011/03-11.htm Shrimp fishermen who have completed the orientation phase of the Trade Adjustment and Assistance (TAA) program are eligible to move into the next phase. Fri, 1 Apr 2011 10:12 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2011.htm Trade Adjustment Assistance Workshops Scheduled For Registered Fishermen; Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council February Update; Continuing to Turn Problem Fish into Nutritious Dish for Haitians in Need; Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council Recruiting Applicants for Fishery Advisory Panels; NOAA Changes in the Gulf; Comments Sought on a Proposed Rule to Increase the Red Snapper Quotas in the Gulf of Mexico; Closure of the Western Gulf of Mexico Zone to Commercial King Mackerel Fishing; Reminder to Federal Fisheries Permit Holders Regarding Control Dates; NOAA Changes in the Atlantic; Atlantic Group Spanish Mackerel Trip Limit Reduced for Commercial Vessels Fishing in the SouthernZone (Florida); Louisiana Shrimp Watch; The Gumbo Pot – Silverfin Steak and Fresh Berries Thu 3 Mar 2011 13:49 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2011/02-11.htm NOAA Fisheries Service is seeking public comment on a proposed rule that would adjust the commercial and recreational red snapper quotas in the Gulf of Mexico from 3.542 and 3.403 million pounds (MP) to 3.66 and 3.525 MPin 2011, respectively. A recent red snapper assessment update projected overfishing ( rate of removal is too high) ended in 2009, and therefore, the total allowable catch can be increased from the existing 6.945 MP to 7.185 MP. This action was evaluated in a regulatory amendment to the Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish Resources of the Gulf of Mexico. The proposed rule publishes in the Federal Register on Feb. 22, 2011, with the comment period ending March 24, 2011. Mon, 28 Feb 2011 11:41 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2011/01-11.htm Sheepshead – Whether you call them convict fish, bait stealers, sea bream or bay snapper, sheepshead ( Archosargus probatocephalus ) are one of the most intriguing estuarine dependent fish found in Louisiana’s coastal waters. Sheepshead are identified by their very broad body, boldly marked with five to seven wide, grayish-black vertical bars set on a light gray or white background. Although similar to black drum, any confusion can be set aside by inspecting the teeth, which look a great deal like human (or sheep) incisors. The dorsal and anal fins have large, very sharp spines. Tue, 11 Jan 2011 11:06 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2011.htm Wild Louisiana Crawfish; Standing, Special Reef Fish and Special Spiny Lobster Scientific & Statistical Committees; Turning Problem Fish into Nutritious Dish for Haitians in Need; Reminder about 2011 Recreational Grouper Regulations in the Gulf of Mexico Gag; Catch Limits and Accountability Measures for 9 South Atlantic Snapper-Grouper Species; Ad Hoc Reef Fish Limited Access Privilege Program Advisory Panel; Outreach and Education Advisory Panel; Ad Hoc Vessel Monitoring System Advisory Panel; Individual Fishing Quota (IFQ) Program in the Gulf of Mexico Quota Changes for 2011 Fishing Year; Final Rule Intended to End Overfishing of Red Snapper in the South Atlantic; Temporary Regulations to Reduce the Harvest of Gag in the Gulf of Mexico Small Entity Compliance Guide; 2011 Decrease of the Gulf of Mexico Red Grouper Commercial Quota and New Requirements for Buoy Gear Small Entity Compliance Guide; Louisiana Shrimp Watch; Underwater Obstructions; NMFS Establishes the 2011 Commercial Quotas and Opening Dates for the Atlantic Shark Fisheries; The Gumbo Pot – Justin’s Crawfish Etouffee Wed 5 Jan 2011 12:22 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2010.htm New Invasive Species Causing a Roar ; Two Vehicles, One Goal: Gulf Restoration; NOAA Fisheries Service Publishes Final Rule to Modify the Seasonal Closure of Bajo de Sicoin the U.S. Caribbean ; Sand Trout or Silver Trout; The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council Meeting ; Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council to Convene Webinars of Gag Update AssessmentWork Group; Reminder the Recreational Red Snapper Season in the Gulf of Mexico Ended 12:01 a.m.,Nov. 22; Assessing Ocean Health; New Oyster Farming Technique Increases Productivity, Offers Entrepreneurial Opportunities; Commercial Fishing for Black Sea Bass to Reopen in the South Atlantic Federal Waters Dec.1 – Dec. 15; Gulf of Mexico Recreational Greater Amberjack Season to Remain Open through the End of 2010; The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council Convenes its Louisiana/Mississippi Habitat Protection Advisory Panel; Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council to Convene its Standing and Special Reef Fish; Scientific and Statistical Committee; Louisiana Shrimp Watch Underwater Obstructions; The Gumbo Pot – Chesapeake Ray Saute Tue 7 Dec 2010 12:03 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/newinvasive.htm There is a new species of fish being spotted across the Gulf of Mexico. Red Lionfish are members of the Scorpionfish family (Scorpaenidae) and native to the Indo-Pacific. The red lionfish is invasive in the Western Atlantic, Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico representing one of the most rapid marine finfish invasions in history. Primarily inhabiting reefs, and found in depths ranging from 1 to 175 meters, they feed on small fish and crustaceans. Tue, 30 Nov 2010 14:25 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2010/11-10.htm Sand Trout or Silver Trout – Louisiana’s coastal waters are blessed with a myriad of fish species. In estuaries across the state, anglers catch many members of the drum or sciaenid family, such as red drum, black drum, spotted sea trout and what many call sand trout or white trout. There is a little bit of confusion when dealing with the latter two, since the terms are used interchangeably to describe sand trout, Cynosc ion arenarius, and silver trout, Cynoscion nothus. Fri, 5 Nov 2010 10:09 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2010.htm Is it a Bird, or a Plane? ...No it’s a Flying Fish; Green Light for BP Spill Damage Assessment; Natural Resource Trustees and the BP Oil Spill; Greater Amberjack Commercial Harvest Closed in the Gulf of Mexico Federal Waters; Seasonal Prohibition on the Possession of Black, Blackfin, Vermilion, and Silk Snapper in Caribbean Federal Waters; King Mackerel Trip Limit Will Decrease to 500 Pounds per Day in the Northern Florida West Coast Subzone; Public Comments Sought on a Proposed Rule to Establish Annual Catch Limits and Accountability Measures for Nine South Atlantic Snapper-Grouper Species; Louisiana Sea Grant Law and Policy Program; Seasonal Boundary Shifts for Atlantic and Gulf Groups of King Mackerel off the Florida Coast; Asian Carp for Sale: Marketing Invasive Species; Underwater Obstructions; Louisiana Shrimp Watch; The Gumbo Pot – Silver Fin Cakes Wed 3 Nov 2010 8:41 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2010.htm The Bowfishing Dilemma; Assessing Damage, Restoring Our Future; NOAA Seafood Sampling and Testing Priorities for Federal Closed Area; Commercial Fishing for Vermilion Snapper Closes Oct. 6; Commercial Fishing for Black Sea Bass Closes Oct. 7; Opportunity for Public Comment on Annual Catch Limits and Accountability Measures for Nine South Atlantic Snapper-Grouper Species; LDWF Procedures for Handling Reports of Oiled Seafood; Recreational Red Snapper Season Opens Oct.1; Underwater Obstructions; Gulf of Mexico Recreational Greater Amberjack Fishery; Louisiana Shrimp Watch; 4-H Junior Leaders Experience Marsh Maneuvers; The Gumbo Pot Tue 5 Oct 2010 13:52 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2010/09-10.htm Recreational Red Snapper Season Opens Oct.1 – At the request of the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council, NOAA’s Marine Fisheries Service will reopen the recreational red snapper season for eight consecutive weekends beginning Oct. 1. The re-opening is effective each weekend from 12:01 a.m. local time Friday, through 12:01 a.m. local time Monday. The fishing season will close at 12:01 a.m. local time on Nov. 22. Tue, 28 Sep 2010 8:12 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/sales.htm Shrimpers are benefiting from a direct-sales method using the Internet to announce when they will be coming ashore with a fresh catch. Mon, 27 Sep 2010 8:32 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/return.htm Today, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, in coordination with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Fisheries, has ordered an emergency reopening of all fishing in 559 square miles of state waters east of the Mississippi River previously closed due to the BP oil spill. With today's action 92 percent of state waters are open. Fri, 24 Sep 2010 10:18 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/redsnapper.htm At the request of the Gulf Council, NOAA Fisheries Service will reopen the recreational red snapper season for eight consecutive weekends (Friday through Sunday), beginning October 1, 2010. The re-opening is effective each weekend from 12:01 a.m. local time, Friday through 12:01 a.m. local time Monday. The fishing season will close for the remainder of 2010 at 12:01 a.m. local time, November 22, 2010. Wed, 22 Sep 2010 9:42 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/workshop.htm Production, distribution and selling cocahoe minnows as live baitfish will be the focus of a workshop hosted by the LSU AgCenter and Louisiana Sea Grant from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 5, at the Aquaculture Research Station, 2410 Ben Hur Road, Baton Rouge. Wed, 1 Sep 2010 13:01 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2010.htm Oyster Outlook; LSU AgCenter Promotes MarketMaker; Cocahoe Minnow Workshop; Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council August Update; Louisiana Shrimp Watch; Trade Adjustment Assistance for Louisiana Shrimpers; Annual Catch Limit/Annual Catch Target Control Rule Working Group to Meet; Youth Journalism Contest Results; NOAA Fisheries Service Requests Comments on South Atlantic Snapper-Grouper Amendment17A, Comment Period Ends Sept. 27; Flynet Turtle Excluder Device Voucher Program; Underwater Obstructions; The Gumbo Pot Wed 1 Sep 2010 9:17 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/processors.htm More than 30 Louisiana seafood processors participated in a special training program that helps ensure that seafood harvested from the Gulf of Mexico’s waters is safe. The workshops, developed by the Sea Grant programs in the Gulf, were held Aug. 11-12 in Baton Rouge and New Orleans. Additional workshops for processors and harvesters will be held in the coming weeks in Florida, Mississippi, Alabama and Texas, and more may be held in Louisiana. Wed, 18 Aug 2010 13:29 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2010/08-10.htm LSU AgCenter Promotes MarketMaker – The LSU AgCenter has launched a new, online marketing initiative called MarketMaker. It’s a free, user-friendly marketing tool for Louisiana fishermen, shrimpers, farmers, ranchers and other food enterprise entrepreneurs provided by the AgCenter and other supporting organizations. Food-related businesses can set up their own profiles at La.FoodMarketMaker.com and can modify their profiles at any time to keep consumers up to date on product availability, other information and business announcements. Wed, 18 Aug 2010 9:49 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/reopen.htm Today, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, in coordination with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, has ordered an emergency reopening of commercial fishing areas that were previously closed due to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Mon, 16 Aug 2010 10:26 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2010.htm Species Profile: Speckled Hind; Federal Government Says Louisiana Gulf Seafood Safe; Seafood Risk Assessment: What does safe seafood mean?; 2010 Legislative Session Recap; House Bills and Resolutions; Thank You for Taking the Fishery Survey!; Louisiana Blue Crab Fishery Pursues International Seafood Sustainability Certification; Website Seeks Information On Oil-spill Research, Monitoring Activities; Louisiana Spirit Coastal Recovery Counseling Program; 2010 Recreational and Commercial Quotas Set for Greater Amberjack in the Gulf of Mexico; NOAA Fisheries Service Publishes Final Rule to Implement the Comprehensive Ecosystem-Based Amendment 1; Louisiana Shrimp Watch Mon 2 Aug 2010 10:16 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/assistance.htm Louisiana shrimp and catfish producers may be eligible to participate in the federal Trade Adjustment Assistance program. Thu, 22 Jul 2010 14:18 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/waterfowl.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) has scheduled a series of six meetings to address the concerns of waterfowl hunters about the effect of oil in coastal marshes and the upcoming hunting season. Mon, 19 Jul 2010 10:31 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/boats.htm With the reopening of large areas in Louisiana waters for recreational fishing, more boats will be encountering oil on their hulls. Experts recommend removing the oil as soon as possible to prevent additional contamination and damage to the boats. Mon, 19 Jul 2010 10:26 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/overturns.htm Today the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission chose to reinstitute a complete closure to recreational fishing in all Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries closure areas. This action by the commission reverses the Secretary of the Department’s decision earlier this week to allow the recreational catch and release of finfish in closed areas. Fri, 9 Jul 2010 8:14 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/catch-and-release.htm In an effort to stimulate economic activity in coastal Louisiana, Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Secretary Robert Barham announced a modification to the state waters fishing closures to allow the recreational catch and release of finfish in closed areas effective immediately, today, July 6, 2010. Wed, 7 Jul 2010 10:13 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2010.htm Oil Toxicity and Louisiana Fishery Species; NOAA Fisheries Service Publishes Final Rule to Implement the Comprehensive Ecosystem- Based Amendment 1; Determining Seafood Safety in an Oil Spill; Delaware Coast Gulf Aid; iPhone App to Rescue Oiled Gulf Coast Wildlife; Louisiana Crabs; Oil Spill Donations; Re-certification of Two Bycatch Reduction Devices (BRDs) for the Southeastern Shrimp Fishery; Unique Aquaculture Program Based On Soft-Shell Crabs Will Provide Crabbers with Approximately $14,000 Increased Annual Income; Testing finds Gulf Seafood is Pristine; Shrimp Watch; HACCP Training; Cocahoe Minnow Culture Fri 2 Jul 2010 10:11 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/shrimpseason.htm The 2010 spring inshore shrimp season in Shrimp Management Zone 2 will close at 6:00 am Monday, July 5, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries announced today. Zone 2 includes state waters from the eastern shore of South Pass of the Mississippi River to the western shore of Vermilion Bay and Southwest Pass at Marsh Island. Fri, 2 Jul 2010 8:38 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/closures2.htm Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Secretary Robert Barham announced the following closure to recreational and commercial fishing in portions of inside and outside waters in Terrebonne, Plaquemines and St. Bernard parishes and inside waters in Lafourche and Jefferson parishes effective immediately today, July 1, 2010. Thu, 1 Jul 2010 12:14 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2010/06-10.htm Oil Spill – Seafood Impacts: While the daily updates of oil trajectories, continued leaking of oil and fisheries closures may be quite unsettling to many coastal fishermen, they are necessary. Fisheries closures and associated fairways (safety/buffer zones) are an effort to protect consumers, sportsmen and subsistence fishermen from contaminated seafood. Even though petroleum is organic in origin, it is composed of a myriad of hydrocarbon compounds. Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon (PAH) compounds are the most dangerous, because of their detrimental health effects such as cancer and neurological impacts. Wed, 30 Jun 2010 12:35 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/taa.htm The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) today announced that it has certified a petition for shrimp under the Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) for Farmers Program. Beginning today, shrimp producers in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Texas will have 90 days to apply for training and benefits. Mon, 28 Jun 2010 12:51 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/openings3.htm Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Secretary Robert Barham announced the following opening to recreational and commercial fishing in a portion of Bayou Lafourche and a portion of inside waters east of Bayou Lafourche in Lafourche Parish effective immediately, today June 23. Wed, 23 Jun 2010 14:16 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/seafood.htm Louisiana seafood is safe, and consumers don’t need to worry about the safety of eating Louisiana seafood following the oil spill, according to experts with the LSU AgCenter. Mon, 21 Jun 2010 14:11 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/openings2.htm Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Secretary Robert Barham announced the following opening to recreational and commercial fishing in portions of inside waters and the territorial seas in Lafourche and Terrebonne parishes effective immediately, today June 17. Thu, 17 Jun 2010 13:47 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/minnows3.htm Production, distribution and selling cocahoe minnows as live baitfish will be the focus of a workshop hosted by the LSU AgCenter and Louisiana Sea Grant from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, June 30, at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Southeast Louisiana Refuges office, 61389 Hwy. 434 in Lacombe. Wed, 16 Jun 2010 8:53 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/plaquemines.htm Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Secretary Robert Barham announced the following opening to recreational and commercial fishing in portions of inside waters east and west of the Mississippi River in Plaquemines Parish effective immediately, today June 14. The area was originally closed as a precautionary measure. The most recent information from shoreline cleanup assessment teams indicates no oil in these areas. Tue, 15 Jun 2010 8:39 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/obi.htm Operation Blessing International (OBI), the 7th largest international charity, is working in partnership with LSU AgCenter/Louisiana Sea Grant Program and the Louisiana Seafood Promotion and Marketing Board (LSPMB) to help crab fishermen and their families still reeling from Hurricane Katrina but also now hit hard by the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. Mon, 14 Jun 2010 8:24 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/amendclosure5.htm Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Secretary Robert Barham announced the following opening to recreational and commercial fishing in portions of state inside and outside waters east of the Mississippi River effective immediately today June 9. A precautionary closure of this area was issued April 30. To date, no oil has been documented in this area. Thu, 10 Jun 2010 10:42 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/amendclosure4.htm Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Secretary Robert Barham announced the following closure to recreational and commercial fishing in portions of inside waters east of Grand Bayou in Plaquemines Parish effective immediately today, June 8 due to reports of oil. Wed, 9 Jun 2010 8:18 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/amendclosure3.htm Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Secretary Robert Barham announced the following opening to recreational and commercial fishing in portions of inside waters near Cocodrie and south of Dulac, LA and in portions of the territorial seas in Terrebonne and Vermilion parishes effective immediately today, June 7. Tue, 8 Jun 2010 9:23 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/amendbasin.htm Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Secretary Robert Barham announced the following action in a portion of the Barataria Basin south of Empire, LA in Plaquemines Parish effective at sunset today, June 6, due to confirmed reports of oil in the area. Mon, 7 Jun 2010 8:31 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/vermilion.htm Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Secretary Robert Barham announced a closure in a portion of the territorial seas near Freshwater Bayou in Vermilion Parish effective immediately, today, June 2, due to confirmed reports of oil. Thu, 3 Jun 2010 10:55 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/amendclosure2.htm Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Secretary Robert Barham announced the following opening to recreational and commercial fishing in northeast St. Bernard Parish effective sunrise, tomorrow June 3. This area was previously closed as a precautionary effort. To date no oil has been confirmed in these waters. Thu, 3 Jun 2010 10:50 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/modifyclosure6.htm Current revisions to the closure, described below, will be effective on June 2,2010 at 6 p.m. eastern time (5 p.m. central time). All commercial and recreational fishing including catch and release is prohibited in the closed area; however, transit through the area is allowed. Thu, 3 Jun 2010 9:30 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2010/05-10.htm As of this writing, oil from the British Petroleum (BP) Deepwater Horizon incident has not yet reached the shores of western Louisiana. However, fishermen are encouraged to make preparations in case it does. Fishermen are urged to begin locating and compiling past and recent landings and income documents in case of a fishery closure. Wed, 2 Jun 2010 13:26 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/pdfs/news/FB10-049_BPOilSpillClosure060110.pdf Current revisions to the closure, described below, will be effective on June 1, 2010 at 6 p.m. eastern time (5 p.m. central time). All commercial and recreational fishing including catch and release is prohibited in the closed area; however, transit through the area is allowed. Tue, 1 Jun 2010 12:49 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/toxicity.htm A large concern with an oil spill is the health of marine species. The effect of oil on Louisiana wildlife is dependent on many factors including the type of oil which is spilled, the location of the oil, the weather during the spill, and the specific species and life stage. The oil from Deepwater Horizon has been classified as mostly light crude according to U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Light crude is relatively volatile, and many of the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), a main source of toxicity, evaporate within 24 to 48 hours. However, even after this time, mortality and long-term effects still occur from weathered oil. Tue, 1 Jun 2010 12:22 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2010.htm Spring 2010 State Legislation on Fisheries Topics; Oil Spill Updates; Economic Impacts to Fisheries and Coastal Habitat; Kemp’s Ridley Update; Delcambre Direct Seafood Opens; Louisiana Shrimp; Recreational Red Snapper Opening Date, Open Fishing Areas, and Increased Sampling of Gulf of Mexico Recreational Fisheries; NOAA Fisheries Service Announces Extension to Red Snapper Interim Rule in the South Atlantic; Gulf Council Seeks Applicants for Advisory Panels; If You Suffer Damages Due to an Oil Spill… ; Gulf of Mexico Red Snapper Quota Increases and June 1-July 23 Recreational Season; Small Entity Compliance Guide; NOAA Fisheries Service Publishes Final Rule to Change Bottom Longline Regulations in the Gulf of Mexico Reef Fish Fishery; Louisiana Shrimp Watch Mon 31 May 2010 14:07 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/meeting.htm An informational meeting has been organized for area commercial fishermen to answer their questions concerning the British Petroleum oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. The meeting will take place Tuesday, May 25, at 2 p.m. in the Viet Hall, 1201 North Lafitte Road, Abbeville. Mon, 24 May 2010 9:17 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/modifyclosure5.htm Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Secretary Robert Barham announced the following additional closure to recreational and commercial fishing activities in a portion of state inside waters east of Grand Isle effective immediately, today, May 22, 2010. Mon, 24 May 2010 9:13 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/modifyclosure4.htm Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Secretary Robert Barham announced the following closure to recreational and commercial fishing activities in a portion of the the territorial seas, just south of Barataria Bay, from the eastern shore of Chaland Pass to the eastern shore of Barataria Pass and a portion of state inside waters west of Bayou Lafourche effective sunset, today, May 21, 2010. These closures are a result of confirmed reports of oil. Mon, 24 May 2010 9:09 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/modifyclosure3.htm Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Secretary Robert Barham announced the following closure to recreational and commercial fishing activities in a portion of the territorial seas, in lower Jefferson Parish, from the eastern shore of Barataria Pass to the western shore of Caminada Pass effective today, May 20, 2010 at sunset. These actions were taken due to confirmed reports of oil. Fri, 21 May 2010 8:53 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/elmersisland.htm Photos provided by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries depict images of oil as it washes ashore Elmer’s Island today in Plaquemines Parish. Fri, 21 May 2010 8:45 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/modifyclosure2.htm Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Secretary Robert Barham announced the following additional closure of a portion of the territorial seas, in lower Lafourche and Jefferson parishes, from the western shore of Caminada Pass to Belle Pass to recreational and commercial fishing activities effective immediately, May 20, 2010. Oil has been documented in the area, including the presence of tar balls on Fourchon Beach. Thu, 20 May 2010 14:49 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/lacrawfish.htm Whether wild or farmed, Louisiana crawfish are harvested from freshwater habitats, well away from coastal areas. As a result, the potential for problems related to the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico is nonexistent for this popular seafood product, and no spill-related effects are anticipated, said Greg Lutz, an aquaculture specialist with the LSU AgCenter. Wed, 19 May 2010 12:37 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/closures.htm The Louisiana departments of Health and Hospitals (DHH), and Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) announced today the closure of recreational and commercial fishing activities, and oyster harvesting near Marsh Island and in harvesting bed Area 28 due to confirmed reports of oil associated with the BP oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. Wed, 19 May 2010 9:01 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/re-opening.htm After the test results showed that the oily substance on the May 14, 2010 catch of a fishing vessel was not related to the Deepwater Horizon spill, Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Secretary Robert Barham announced the following openings to recreational and commercial fishing activities effective immediately, May 16, 2010. Now that LDWF has confirmed the reported contamination had no connection to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill a new investigation will begin to determine how the petroleum product came in contact with the catch. Mon, 17 May 2010 8:57 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/openings.htm Please note that these areas are open to both recreational and commercial fishing except in those areas closed by the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals (DHH) to oyster harvesting. Mon, 17 May 2010 8:52 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/partialopening2.htm Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Secretary Robert Barham has announced several actions regarding recreational and commercial fishing activities effective sunrise, Friday, May 14. Fri, 14 May 2010 8:36 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/stateopens.htm Today the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries in coordination with the Louisiana Office of Coastal Restoration and Protection (OCPR) and Plaquemines Parish officials have opened gates at the Bayou Lamoque freshwater diversion in Plaquemines Parish, allowing water to flow from the Mississippi River into wetlands adjacent to Black Bay and Breton Sound at an estimated 7,500 cubic feet per second. Thu, 13 May 2010 10:38 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/partialopening.htm Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Secretary Robert Barham has announced that the state's territorial seas are open, effective immediately, from the Empire Canal westward to Belle Pass for recreational and commercial fishing. Wed, 12 May 2010 11:57 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/furtherclosure.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries announced today it will be closing recreational and commercial fishing in further areas of state waters as a precautionary response to the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. Mon, 10 May 2010 8:26 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/shrimpchange.htm Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Secretary Robert Barham announced that the shrimp season in the territorial seas of the central coast of Louisiana – from Four Bayou Pass to Freshwater Bayou – closes effective sunset, Saturday, May 8, 2010. Mon, 10 May 2010 8:21 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/modifyclosure.htm NOAA Fisheries Service modified the boundaries of the closed fishing area to better reflect the current extent of the oil pollution. All commercial and recreational fishing including catch and release is prohibited in the closed area. Fri, 7 May 2010 9:17 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/emergencyclosure.htm Today LDWF Secretary Robert Barham issued an emergency closure of shrimp harvesting in territorial seas from the south pass of the Mississippi River to the eastern shore of Four Bayous Pass, effective at 6PM, May 6, 2010. Latest projections from NOAA indicate that this area may be vulnerable to oil in the coming days. Thu, 6 May 2010 13:52 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/texasclosed.htm NOAA Fisheries Service announces federal waters from 9 to 200 nautical miles off Texas will close to shrimp trawling at 30 minutes after official sunset, local time, on May 15, 2010, corresponding to the time Texas closes its waters to shrimp trawling. The shrimp fishery is closed annually off Texas to allow brown shrimp to reach a larger and more valuable size prior to harvest, and to prevent waste of brown shrimp that might otherwise be discarded due to their small size. Thu, 6 May 2010 9:36 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/donations.htm The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Foundation (LWFF) has established a site for interested parties to donate funds to be used for fish, wildlife and habitat cleanup associated with the BP oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. Thu, 6 May 2010 9:35 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/oilspillclaims.htm BP is now accepting claims for the Gulf Coast oil spill. Please call BP’s helpline at 1-800-440-0858. Thu, 6 May 2010 9:34 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/volunteers.htm The oil spill off the mouth of the Mississippi River has been declared a "spill of national significance," and threatens damage to the Gulf Coast-perhaps for months to come. With the first wave of the oil slick expected to impact coastal Louisiana, Governor Bobby Jindal has declared a state of emergency. The National Audubon Society, National Wildlife Federation, the Barataria-Terrebonne National Estuary Program and the Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana are joining forces to begin signing up volunteers to assist in local, state and federal recovery efforts as needs arise. Thu, 6 May 2010 9:33 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/noaaclosure.htm NOAA is restricting fishing for a minimum of ten days in federal waters most affected by the BP oil spill, largely between Louisiana state waters at the mouth of the Mississippi River to waters off Florida’s Pensacola Bay. The closure is effective immediately. Details can be found here: http://sero.nmfs.noaa.gov/ . Fishermen who wish to contact BP about a claim should call 800-440-0858. Thu, 6 May 2010 9:32 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2010.htm The Stars of Springtime: Red Swamp and Southern White River Crawfish; Calcasieu Oyster Initiative Reaps Success; Northshore High School Students Help Restore the Fritchie Marsh; Shrimp Season in Portion of Louisiana Offshore Territorial Waters Reopened; Commercial Fishery for Golden Tilefish Closed; Recreational Grouper Season Reopened April 1; LDWF Extends Deadline for Research Survey Program; LDWF Biologist Honored by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service; Online Fishery Survey; Underwater Obstructions; Louisiana Shrimp Watch; Wed 5 May 2010 11:36 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2010/04-10.htm Calcasieu Oyster Initiative Reaps Success – After several years of planning meetings, changes to regulations and support of the local oyster industry, an initiative to increase harvest and market value of the Calcasieu Lake oyster fishery is reaping benefits. Oyster harvesting from the area had fallen from more than 100,000 sacks in the early ‘80s to less than 20,000 sacks in the early years of this decade. Wed, 21 Apr 2010 10:01 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/newpolicy.htm NOAA is currently seeking public input to help shape the scope and objectives of a draft policy for marine aquaculture. We are particularly interested in hearing ideas about how the policy can most effectively guide and support science; provide clear regulations; support outreach, education, and innovation; and define the U.S. role in this international industry. Wed, 7 Apr 2010 10:10 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/myths.htm Whether you like them boiled, fried or in a stew, crawfish are a Louisiana favorite. And for the next few months, crawfish can be found on dinner tables and in backyard boils across the state. Mon, 5 Apr 2010 10:53 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/minnows2.htm Production, distribution and selling cocahoe minnows as live baitfish will be the focus of a workshop hosted by the LSU AgCenter and Louisiana Sea Grant. Wed, 31 Mar 2010 15:28 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2010.htm New Fish Species Added To State Fish Records; An Integrated Approach for Providing Marine Baitfish to Louisiana Anglers; NOAA Takes Steps to Assure Fair and Effective Enforcement, Protect Resources; Sea Grant Launches Survey of Charter Boat Sector in Gulf of Mexico; Control Dates for the King and Spanish Mackerel Fisheries; Louisiana Shrimp Watch; L.D.W.F. Hosts Saltwater Series Redfish Tournament; Commercial Fishing for Large Coastal Sharks Closed; Barataria Sweep Yields Nearly 500 Abandoned Crab Traps; Underwater Obstructions Wed 31 Mar 2010 10:48 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2010/03-10.htm Filamentous Algae Control – One of the most common aquatic weed problems encountered by fish pond owners is pond scum. The proper term is actually filamentous algae. Tue, 30 Mar 2010 15:19 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/survey.htm More than 2,000 licensed charter boat captains in the Gulf of Mexico will have the opportunity to participate in the 2009 Recreation For-Hire Economic Survey (RFHES), which will be held in mid-April. Mon, 8 Mar 2010 11:32 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2010/02-10.htm Crawfish Season Setback – Louisianans associate Mardi Gras and early spring with eating crawfish. It has become a tradition and a part of our rich culture. However, through February 2010, crawfish have been in short supply. Mon, 8 Mar 2010 11:21 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/sentenced.htm A Baton Rouge man and woman pled guilty for violations stemming from the illegal sale of recreationally caught fish and were sentenced on Feb. 24 by Judge Marilyn Lambert from the 23rd Judicial District Court. Mon, 1 Mar 2010 15:35 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/crawfishblog.htm Crawfish farmers and consumers can get a weekly snapshot of what is happening in the crawfish market with a Web log produced by the LSU AgCenter. Mon, 1 Mar 2010 15:28 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/faqs/catchshares.htm Given the recent attention to the use of catch shares in rebuilding fisheries, Louisiana Sea Grant offers the following information on this type of fishery management. This effort is intended to be descriptive rather than prescriptive, and our goal is to facilitate the progression of well-informed discussions. Thu, 25 Feb 2010 17:22 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/minnows.htm Production, distribution and selling cocahoe minnows as live baitfish will be the focus of a workshop hosted by the LSU AgCenter and Louisiana Sea Grant. Tue, 23 Feb 2010 10:19 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/outreachmeetings.htm Next week the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and the Louisiana Recovery Authority, in partnership with the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry, Louisiana State University and Louisiana SeaGrant, will host a series of four outreach meetings across coastal Louisiana to discuss the launch of a $22.7 million program designed to further assist Louisiana’s fisheries affected by hurricanes Gustav and Ike in 2008. Fri, 19 Feb 2010 10:02 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/tournament.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) is gearing up to host the first annual Louisiana Saltwater Series. The inaugural series was developed by LDWF in conjunction with the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Foundation to promote the conservation of Louisiana’s saltwater sport fish resources, through six tag and release redfish tournaments. The first tournament will be held in Lafitte, LA on March 6, 2010, at the SeaWay Marina. Wed, 17 Feb 2010 16:12 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/freeze.htm The recent arctic cold snap has the potential to kill fish in the coastal zone across Louisiana. To date, most reports received by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) are of sand seatrout, (a.k.a. “white trout”), black drum, and a few spotted seatrout. Thu, 21 Jan 2010 16:08 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/washington.htm On Wednesday, Jan. 20, representatives of the Louisiana oyster industry traveled to Washington, D.C. for their annual celebration of oysters. Thu, 21 Jan 2010 16:06 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2010.htm Catch Share Questions Answered; Applications for Special Bait Dealer Permits Due by April 30; Commercial Shark Fishing to Open in Louisiana Waters; Remainder of Zone 1 Closed to Shrimping; Fisheries Recovery Program Launched; LDWF Conducts Survey of Commercial Wild Crawfish Harvesters; Louisiana Shrimp Watch; The Gumbo Pot – Renee Cosse’s Crawfish Pie Thu 21 Jan 2010 10:54 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2010/01-10.htm Louisiana Iris — The Louisiana iris, Iris giganticaerulea, was adopted as the official state wildflower in 1990. Currently, there are five recognized species of Louisiana irises: Iris giganaticaerulea, I . hexagona, I. fulva, I. brevicaulis and I. nelsonii. The number of recognized species used to be quite lengthy, but taxonomist have concluded that many iris species were actually natural hybrids. From these five species, there have been hundreds of cultivated varieties developed over the years in a myriad of colors. Mon, 23 Nov 2009 11:26 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/sharks.htm Commercial fishing for non-sandbar large coastal sharks as defined by Louisiana rule (L.A.C. 76:VII.357) will open in Louisiana waters at 12:01 a.m., Feb. 4, 2010. The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) will also open the federal waters of the Gulf of Mexico at this time. Fri, 15 Jan 2010 14:04 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/baitdealer.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) is accepting applications for “Special Bait Dealer” permits through April 30, 2010. Fri, 15 Jan 2010 14:02 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2010/01-10.htm Fisheries Recovery Program Launched — It is estimated that the total fisheries infrastructure and economic loss from hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005 and hurricanes Gustav and Ike in 2008 totaled more than $750 million. The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) was charged with the coordination and distribution of federal recovery funds to the fishing industry for those storms. A $41 million Katrina and Rita program began in May 2008. Fri, 15 Jan 2010 11:49 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/zone1.htm The fall inshore shrimp season will close in the remainder of Shrimp Management Zone 1 extending north of the southern shore of the Mississippi River Gulf Outlet (MRGO) at official sunset Jan. 14, 2010. Tue, 12 Jan 2010 13:32 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2010/carp.htm The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission, in an initial step to relax regulations on the recreational harvest of silver and bighead carp, today approved a 120-day comment period for public input on the subject. Fri, 8 Jan 2010 9:37 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2009/fallinshore.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) has extended the fall inshore shrimp season in that portion of Shrimp Management Zone 1 extending north of the south shore of the Mississippi River Gulf Outlet, including Lake Pontchartrain and Lake Borgne until further notice. Wed, 16 Dec 2009 15:02 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2009.htm FDA Backs Off Raw Gulf Oyster Ban; NOAA Closes South Atlantic Red Snapper Fishery; Commercial Red Snapper Fishing Quota Program Rules Change Jan. 1; Louisiana Shrimp Watch; Underwater Obstructions; The Gumbo Pot – Oyster Dressing; Thu 10 Dec 2009 11:52 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2009/11-09.htm Louisiana Iris — The Louisiana iris, Iris giganticaerulea, was adopted as the official state wildflower in 1990. Currently, there are five recognized species of Louisiana irises: Iris giganaticaerulea, I . hexagona, I. fulva, I. brevicaulis and I. nelsonii. The number of recognized species used to be quite lengthy, but taxonomist have concluded that many iris species were actually natural hybrids. From these five species, there have been hundreds of cultivated varieties developed over the years in a myriad of colors. Mon, 23 Nov 2009 11:26 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2009.htm LWF Commission Rejects Reef Fish Rules; Southwest Oyster Season Opened; Louisiana Officials Express Concerns Over Federal Summer Oyster Ban; Louisiana Shrimp Watch; Shrimp Task Force Activities on Web; Gulf of Mexico Individual Fishing Quota (IFQ) Program; Amberjack Commercial Harvest Closed; Gulf Amberjack Recreational Closure: Frequently Asked Questions NOAA); Collegiate Bass Fishing Catching On; Gulf Council Recruiting Members for King Mackerel LAPP Advisory Panel; Marketing program could boost sales for Louisiana Fishermen; Underwater Obstructions; The Gumbo Pot – Gulf Fish Iberville Fri, 13 Nov 2009 11:00 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2009/rules.htm The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission considered actions at their Nov. 2009 meeting to 1) receive and consider Resolution and Notice of Intent to Amend Rules for Harvest of Reef Fish: Grouper Recreational Seasons and Bag Limits, Grouper Commercial Seasons and Size Limits, Red Snapper/Reef Fish IFQ Modifications, 2) receive and consider Declaration of Emergency - Rules for Harvest of Reef Fish: Grouper Recreational Seasons and Bag Limits, Grouper Commercial Seasons and Size Limit, and 3), receive and consider Declaration of Emergency - Closure of the Recreational Fishery for Greater Amberjack in Louisiana Waters. Fri, 6 Nov 2009 11:47 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2009/amberjack.htm The decision was made by Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Secretary Robert Barham, following notification by NOAA Fisheries that the federal waters of the Gulf of Mexico will close for the commercial harvest of greater amberjack from 12:01 a.m., Nov 7 until 12:01 a.m., Jan 1, 2010, and per a request from NOAA Fisheries. Thu, 5 Nov 2009 9:58 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2009/surveyreport.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Socioeconomic Research Development Section (SRD) has posted a new research publication titled “2008 Louisiana Recreational Fisherman and Health Advisory Survey Report” on the LDWF Web site. Wed, 4 Nov 2009 11:32 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2009/10-09.htm Oyster Season Opens — The Lower Calcasieu Lake and West Cove Conditional Management Area opened to harvest one-half hour before sunrise on Oct. 15, 2009. Harvesting will close one-half hour after sunset on April 30, 2010. The sack limit for Calcasieu Lake is set at 15; one and one half bushel sacks per day as provided for in R.S. 56:435.1.1. However, these conservation actions will not supersede public health closures. Tue, 3 Nov 2009 8:55 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2009/seasondelay.htm Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Secretary Robert J. Barham issued an emergency delay of the 2009-10 oyster season in a portion of the public oyster seed grounds in St. Bernard Parish, as well as the entire Sister Lake Public Oyster Seed Reservation in Terrebonne Parish. Fri, 23 Oct 2009 10:41 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2009/lakedarbonne.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) has reopened Lake D'Arbonne to all fishing and boating activities and rescinded emergency “No Wake” restrictions, effective as of 1 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 19. Fri, 23 Oct 2009 10:32 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2009.htm The Shrimp Industry Crisis; Louisiana Shrimp Watch; Gulf Council Answers Questions about Catch Limits, Accountability Measures; New Regulations for Elmer's Island Refuge; LOWA Announces Fish of the Year Winner for 2008; Gulf of Mexico Fishery Closures; Underwater Obstructions; The Gumbo Pot – Baked Grouper with Green Onion and Mushrooms Fri, 9 Oct 2009 9:22 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2009/09-09.htm Shrimp Summit Update — The Cameron Shrimp Summit of Sept. 16, 2009, covered the many factors leading to the current shrimp situation along with some opportunities for the future. The entire meeting or portions can be viewed at: www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/management/shrimpsummit.htm Tue, 6 Oct 2009 12:36 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2009/drawdown.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF), in collaboration with the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) initiated a drawdown on Lake Bistineau on Wednesday, Sept. 16. Wed, 23 Sep 2009 7:59 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2009/deadline.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries has extended the deadline for eligible commercial fishermen and wholesale/retail seafood dealers to complete and submit cooperative research surveys under its $15 million Cooperative Research program. Wed, 16 Sep 2009 10:53 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2009/salinelake.htm Saline Lake, a water body nearly completely covered with giant salvinia last fall, has recently shown significant improvement due to an aquatic vegetation management plan initiated by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) in the spring of 2009. Wed, 16 Sep 2009 10:50 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2009.htm Cameron Shrimp Summit; Elmer’s Island Trash Bash Sept. 19; Volunteers Sought for Cameron Beach Restoration; Individual Fishing Quota (IFQ) Program for Groupers, Tilefishes and Other Changes; LDWF Stocking Port Sulphur Waterways; Gulf Council Seeks Members for New Data Collection Advisory Panel; Louisiana Shrimp Watch; Underwater Obstructions; The Gumbo Pot – Crab Soup Fri, 11 Sep 2009 13:49 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2009/08-09.htm Cameron Shrimp Summit — The current shrimp crisis will be the focus of a Shrimp Summit which will be held in Cameron. The meeting will take place in the Cameron Courtroom on September 16, 2009 beginning at 6:00 p.m. The meeting is sponsored by the LSU AgCenter/Sea Grant program, and features representatives from the Louisiana Recovery Authority, Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, Integrated Marine Systems, Louisiana Seafood Promotion and Marketing Board and the Cameron Parish Police Jury Office of Economic Development. Wed, 9 Sep 2009 9:41 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2009/kingmackerel.htm The commercial season for king mackerel in Louisiana waters will close at noon on Saturday, Sept. 12, 2009. The decision was made by Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Secretary Robert Barham. Wed, 9 Sep 2009 9:06 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2009/policy.htm NOAA today announced its intent to develop a comprehensive national policy for sustainable marine aquaculture in the coming months, providing a framework for addressing aquaculture activity in federal waters. Marine aquaculture is the cultivation of marine organisms, such as finfish and shellfish, that are consumed by Americans on a daily basis. Fri, 4 Sep 2009 7:59 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2009/trashbash.htm Mark Saturday, Sept. 19, on your calendar and come out and join forces with other dedicated volunteers to clean the beaches of Elmer’s Island. Together with community stakeholders, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF), along with a multitude of project partners are hosting an Elmer’s Island Trash Bash. Thu, 3 Sep 2009 9:44 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2009/boattitles.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) will begin accepting applications for boat titles effective Aug. 25, 2009. Tue, 25 Aug 2009 7:19 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2009.htm Gulf Council Calls for Southeast Data, Assessment and Review (SEDAR) Red Snapper Update Workshop; 2009 Gulf Hypoxic Zone Report; Louisiana Shrimp Watch; Worm / Hilborn Collaboration Finds Common Ground on Fisheries Management; Status Update on Gag Grouper; Boating Course Offered; 2009 Louisiana Fall Shrimp Season to Open; Annual Catch Limits and Accountability Measures under Development; Underwater Obstructions; The Gumbo Pot – Oyster Kabobs Tue, 11 Aug 2009 10:02 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2009/leader.htm Dr. Glenn Thomas has been named the director of Marine Extension for the Louisiana Sea Grant College Pro­gram and the LSU AgCenter. Thomas has been with Louisiana Sea Grant since 2004, initially serving as an Extension agent for St. Martin, St. Mary, Iberia and Iberville parishes, and most recently as state-wide fisheries specialist. Mon, 10 Aug 2009 13:26 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2009/reimbursement.htm Today the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) announced a slight delay in the rendering of financial assistance to commercial fishermen who were affected by hurricanes Gustav and Ike. Earlier this year, the department launched a $30 million reimbursement program utilizing funds from a $40 million appropriation allocated to the state for fisheries disaster assistance to the commercial fishing industry. Fri, 21 Aug 2009 7:16 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2009/oysterseason.htm The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission set the opening and closing dates for the 2009-10 oyster season on the public oyster areas at their Aug. 6, 2009 meeting. Mon, 10 Aug 2009 9:58 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2009/fallshrimp.htm The fall inshore shrimp season will open in Shrimp Management Zones 1, 2 and 3 at 6 a.m. on Monday, Aug. 10, 2009. The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission approved the season dates at its Aug. 6 meeting based upon recommendations presented by Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries' (LDWF) Office of Fisheries biological staff and public comment. Thu, 6 Aug 2009 12:56 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2009/07-09.htm Redfish Facts — In recent years the red drum, Sciaenops ocellatus, has been raised to new prominence in the recreational fishing world. Series of tournaments such as the Redfish Cup Tour has brought glamour to the redfish. However, until 1977, the recreational fishery for redfish was unregulated. That year a combined daily limit of 50 was placed on redfish and speckled trout. Additionally, sport fishermen were limited to no more than two redfish over 36 inches in length. In 1984, the possession limit was reduced to the daily limit and a new saltwater angling license was instituted. A minimum recreational length of 14 inches was set in 1987. In 1988, the creel limit was reduced to five redfish with only one fish over 27 inches allowed, and the minimum size was set at 16 inches. Tue, 21 Jul 2009 12:48 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/fins/2009/07-09.htm Gustav, Ike Fisheries Assistance — The Gustav/Ike Fisheries Assistance Program has officially begun. The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) launched a $30 million reimbursement program, designed in collaboration with the Louisiana Recovery Authority (LRA), to assist the commercial fishing industry that suffered damages from Hurricanes Gustav and Ike. Tue, 21 Jul 2009 12:34 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2009/researchsurveys.htm Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) economists and representatives of the South Central Planning and Development Commission (SCPDC) will be available at various locations in July, August and September to assist eligible participants in completing Fisheries Recovery Cooperative Research Surveys. Fri, 17 Jul 2009 10:39 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2009.htm The Gulf Menhaden; Brevoortia Patronus. Part Three: Controversy in the Fishery; Gustav/Ike Fisheries Assistance; Louisiana Shrimp Watch; New Fisheries Lab Opens on Grand Isle; Deepwater Grouper Commercial Fishery Closed; Texas Brown Shrimp Opening July 15; The Gumbo Pot – Shrimp Stuffed Tomatoes Mon, 13 Jul 2009 13:57 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2009/survey.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries has extended the application deadline to Aug. 15, 2009, for its $15.7 million cooperative research program to monitor the recovery of Louisiana commercial fisheries impacted by hurricanes Katrina, Rita, Gustav and Ike. Mon, 13 Jul 2009 12:48 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2009/taskforce.htm The 2009 spring inshore shrimp season in additional portions of Shrimp Management Zone 1 and all of Zone 3 will close on Saturday, July 11, 2009 at 6 a.m. Effective with this closure all state inside waters will be closed to shrimping except for the following portions of Zone 1 which will remain open until further notice. Tue, 7 Jul 2009 12:49 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2009/taskforce.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) is actively seeking new members to the Louisiana Crab Task Force to replace six current vacancies including one member who must be a crab dealer or processor and five members who must be commercial hard crab fishermen. Wed, 1 Jul 2009 10:26 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2009/06-09.htm Gustav/Ike Fisheries Assistance — The Gustav/Ike Fisheries Assistance Program has officially begun. The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) launched a $30 million reimbursement program, designed in collaboration with the Louisiana Recovery Authority (LRA), to assist the commercial fishing industry that suffered damages from Hurricanes Gustav and Ike. Mon, 29 Jun 2009 8:49 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2009/zone1.htm The 2009 spring inshore shrimp season in Shrimp Management Zone 1 will close on Tuesday, June 30, at 6:00 a.m. except for certain portions of Zone 1. Fri, 26 Jun 2009 10:39 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2009/groupers.htm The commercial fishery for deepwater groupers in Louisiana waters will close at 12:01 a.m. on June 27, 2009, and will remain closed until Jan. 1, 2010. The deepwater grouper assemblage includes misty, snowy, yellowedge, Warsaw grouper and speckled hind. Wed, 24 Jun 2009 9:34 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2009/coastalsharks.htm The 2009 spring inshore shrimp season in Shrimp Management Zone 2 will close on Monday, June 22, at 6:00 a.m. Zone 2 includes state waters from the eastern shore of South Pass of the Mississippi River to the western shore of Vermilion Bay and Southwest Pass at Marsh Island. Zones 1 and 3 will remain open until further notice. State territorial waters south of the Inside/Outside shrimp line, as described in LA R.S.56:495, will also remain open to shrimping. Thu, 18 Jun 2009 10:09 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2009/coastalsharks.htm Commercial fishing for large coastal sharks, as defined by Louisiana rule (L.A.C. 76:VII.357), will remain closed in Louisiana waters. Mon, 15 Jun 2009 11:28 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2009/assistance.htm Today the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) launched a $30 million reimbursement program, designed in collaboration with the Louisiana Recovery Authority (LRA), to assist the commercial fishing industry that suffered damages from hurricanes Gustav and Ike this past year. Thu, 11 Jun 2009 9:46 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2009.htm Chandeleur Lighthouse Remembered in New Web Films; NOAA Seeks Public Comment on the Fishery Management Plan for Offshore Marine Aquaculture; Louisiana Boating Laws; Tips for Safe Skii/Tubing/Boarding; NOAA Requests Submission of Landing Locations for Current and Proposed Gulf of Mexico Individual Fishing Quota (IFQ) Programs; Yellow Crawfish; Louisiana Shrimp Watch; Louisiana Looks to Algae for Potential Fuel Production; Underwater Obstructions; The Gumbo Pot – Crabmeat-Eggplant Casserole Tue, 9 Jun 2009 10:22 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/fins/2009/06-09.htm Louisiana Boating Laws; Tips for Safe Skiing/Tubing/Boarding — Many people are not aware that Louisiana has a set of boating regulations that became effective July 1, 2008, that affect hand tiller outboard motorboats and towed water sports participants. Mon, 8 Jun 2009 9:50 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2009/rehabilitation.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Office of Fisheries announced an extension to the deadline for Private Oyster Lease Rehabilitation (POLR) Cooperative Endeavor Agreements. Mon, 1 Jun 2009 9:38 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2009/05-09.htm The spotted seatrout, Cynoscion nebulosis, is the most sought after fish by Louisiana coastal anglers. During the years of 1999 to 2001, Louisiana fishermen averaged boating 13.6 million spotted seatrout annually. During the same time period, coastal recreational and charter fishing activity grew exponentially with improved technologies and an increase in public leisure time. In spite of the increased effort and harvest, Louisiana’s trout stocks remain healthy. Speckled trout accomplish this amazing feat by sheer numbers. Fri, 29 May 2009 12:34 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2009/tilapia2.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) will present plans for treatment of tilapia in Plaquemines Parish waterways during a second public meeting set for 6 p.m. Wednesday, June 3 in the St. Patrick’s Family Life Center, 28698 LA Hwy. 23, Port Sulphur. Fri, 29 May 2009 9:06 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2009/crabtraps.htm Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Marine Fisheries Division biologists based from the Houma Area Field Station conducted abandoned crab trap removal operations during February and March resulting in the removal and disposal of 788 derelict crab traps. According to Vince Guillory, Biologist Manager, who has led all LDWF trap clean-ups, traps were removed in portions of Lake Mechant, Sister Lake, Lost Lake and Bayou Terrebonne located in Terrebonne Parish and Little Lake located west of Leeville in Lafourche Parish. Thu, 28 May 2009 12:25 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/fins/2009/05-09.htm Sawfish Recovery Plan Finalized — In January 2009, NOAA fisheries published the final plan for recovery of the endangered smalltooth sawfish (Pristis pectinata). This fascinating animal lived, at one time, from Brazil to New York, and throughout the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico. Wed, 27 May 2009 14:54 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2009/redsnapper.htm The recreational fishery for red snapper in Louisiana waters will close at 12:01 a.m. on Aug. 15, 2009, and will remain closed until June 1, 2010. The fishery will open as previously scheduled, at 12:01 a.m. June 1, 2009. Thu, 21 May 2009 9:58 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2009/tilapia.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) will present plans for eradication of tilapia in Plaquemines Parish waterways during a public meeting set for 6 p.m. Thursday, May 21 in the Belle Chasse Auditorium, 8398 LA Hwy. 23, Belle Chasse. Tue, 19 May 2009 15:22 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2009/directmail.htm Residents throughout Louisiana are rediscovering the simple, affordable thrills of boating and fishing, thanks to the marketing efforts of the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) to bring lapsed anglers back to the sport. Tue, 19 May 2009 14:34 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2009/springshrimp.htm The opening dates of the 2009 Louisiana spring shrimp season were announced at the May 7 meeting of the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission. The declaration of emergency, which established the season opening dates, followed a presentation of the latest biological and hydrological data compiled by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Marine Fisheries Division and public comment from shrimpers, members of the shrimp industry and other concerned citizens. Thu, 7 May 2009 13:55 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2009.htm The Gulf Menhaden; Brevoortia patronus. Part Two: History of the Fishery; Sawfish Recovery Plan Finalized; NOAA Announces Emergency Rule to Protect Threatened Sea Turtles;Accountability Measures and Annual Catch Limits; Recreational Red Snapper Fishery to Open June 1; New Regulations for Gulf Grouper Effective May 18, 2009; The Gumbo Pot – Louisiana Shrimp Sauce Piquant Thu, 7 May 2009 12:45 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2009/fishingclosure.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) has closed commercial and recreational fishing in an area south of Port Sulphur in Plaquemines Parish following the discovery of tilapia in public waterways in the vicinity. The decision was made by LDWF Secretary Robert Barham, as authorized by the Administrative Procedure Act, and is effective today, May 5, 2009 until further notice. Thu, 7 May 2009 10:34 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2009/04-09.htm Pond Scum — One of the most common aquatic weed problems encountered by fish pond owners is pond scum. The proper term is actually filamentous algae. Thu, 30 Apr 2009 13:52 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2009/assessment.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) announced today a $15.7 million cooperative research program to monitor the recovery of Louisiana commercial fisheries impacted by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005 and Gustav and Ike in 2008. Fri, 17 Apr 2009 10:46 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/fins/2009/04-09.htm Zombies, Fugu, Pufferfish and Murder — Last July, a Chicago-area man was arrested for illegally purchasing research-grade tetrodotoxin (TTX). This toxin, found in certain fish species and in a few other animals, is more than 1,000 times more toxic than cyanide. The man who was arrested allegedly had intentions of assassination by use of TTX, which has a long and fascinating history of human use and misuse. Fri, 17 Apr 2009 10:52 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2009/assessment.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) announced today a $15.7 million cooperative research program to monitor the recovery of Louisiana commercial fisheries impacted by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005 and Gustav and Ike in 2008. Fri, 17 Apr 2009 10:46 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2009.htm The Gulf Menhaden; Brevoortia patronus. Part One: Species Profile; Live Bait can Save the Fishing Trip; Proper Handling of Offshore Catch: Sushi Doesn’t Just Happen; Recreational Season for Gag Grouper Opens; Shrimp Season in Portion of Louisiana Offshore Territorial Waters Reopened to Shrimping; King Mackerel Commercial Fishery Closed; Underwater Obstructions; The Gumbo Pot – Crawfish Casserole Wed, 8 Apr 2009 9:39 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2009/reopened.htm Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Secretary Robert Barham announced that the shrimp season in that portion of Louisiana offshore territorial waters south of the Inside/Outside Shrimp Line as described in R.S.56:495, from the eastern shore of the Atchafalaya River Ship Channel at Eugene Island as delineated by the Channel red buoy line to the U.S. Coast Guard navigational light off the northwest shore of Caillou Boca at 29 degrees 03 minutes 10 seconds north latitude and 90 degrees 50 minutes 27 seconds west longitude, will reopen to shrimping on April 13, 2009 at 12 noon. Mon, 6 Apr 2009 14:28 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/fins/2009/03-09.htm Sheepshead on the Menu? — This black-barred saltwater fish undoubtedly got the name sheepshead because it has a downward-sloping snout and grazing/nipping teeth that look like a sheep’s. Along the way, it has also acquired numerous additional common names, including rondeau mouton (French), tete de mouton (Louisiana French), sargo chopa, pargo, rondeau mouton sargo (Spanish), kubinsky morskoi, karaś (Russian), sargo-choupa (Portuguese), sparus owczarz (Polish), sheepshead bream, bay snapper, sheepshead porgy, convict fish, striped bandit, rondeau seabream, jailhouse snapper, silver snapper and goat. Fri, 13 Mar 2009 12:39 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2009/council.htm The Hunting and Fishing Advisory Education Council will meet on Tuesday, March 17, 2009 at 1:30 p.m. in the 4th Floor Conference Room of the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Headquarters building located at 2000 Quail Drive in Baton Rouge, La. 70808. Fri, 13 Mar 2009 10:05 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2009/artificialreef.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Artificial Reef Program intends to establish the South Timbalier 161 and South Marsh Island 108 special artificial reef sites (SARS). Fri, 13 Mar 2009 9:59 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2009.htm Species Profile: Bowfin (Amia calva); Official Louisiana Fish Records for Bowfin; Sheepshead on the Menu?; Official Louisiana Fish Records for Sheepshead; Performance and Cost of Bycatch Reduction Devices Approved for use in the Gulf of Mexico as of May 19, 2009; Florida Boating Accident Prompts Safety Reminders; Oyster Season to close Early in Selected Portions of Public Seed Grounds; Underwater Obstructions; The Gumbo Pot – Bay Snapper Stuffed Crabs Mon, 9 Mar 2009 10:14 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2009/02-09.htm Lunar Power — Most coastal residents and frequent visitors to the coast take tides for granted unless they work on the water or they are planning a day of fishing in Louisiana’s vast marshes. Tides are the result of powerful gravitational forces on Earth’s waters by the Moon, and to a lesser extent the Sun. While all water bodies on Earth are affected by the gravitational pulls, it is most evident on our oceans. Wed, 25 Feb 2009 13:17 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2009.htm Chesapeake Blue Crab Woes; Coastal Fishing Equals Jobs; L.D.W.F. Requesting Public Comment on Proposed Artificial Reef Plan; Commercial Fishing for Large Coastal Sharks to Open; Requirements for the Gulf Commercial Reef Fish Fishery; New Grouper, Amberjack Regulations; The Gumbo Pot – File Gumbo D’Ecrevisse; Subscription Renewal Time Wed, 18 Feb 2009 10:14 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2009/publicoyster.htm Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Secretary Robert J. Barham issued an emergency order to close the 2008-09-oyster season in selected portions of the public oyster seed grounds at one-half hour after sunset on Saturday, March 14, 2009. Tue, 17 Feb 2009 14:22 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2009/01-09.htm Coastal Fishing Equals Jobs — NOAA Fisheries Service recently released an economic report on the impacts of commercial and recreational saltwater fishing in the U.S., titled Fisheries Economics of the United States, 2006, which covers 1997 to 2006. Results of the study indicate that commercial and recreational saltwater fishing nationwide generate more than $185 billion in sales and supported more than two million jobs in 2006. Tue, 20 Jan 2009 17:01 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2009/inshoreshrimp.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) will close the fall inshore shrimp season in Shrimp Management Zone 1 at official sunset Jan. 23, 2009 except for the open waters of Breton and Chandeleur Sounds as described by the double-rig line (LA R.S.56:495.1.(A)2), which will remain open until 6 a.m., March 31, 2009. Tue, 20 Jan 2009 16:52 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/fins/2009/01-09.htm The Latest Melamine Problem: Chinese Seafood — The latest news about the use of melamine in Chinese seafood is alarming to U.S. consumers. Not long ago, revelations about Chinese use of melamine in dairy products to “trick” protein analyses generated considerable concern primarily in Asia, where some babies had been poisoned. Before that, pet foods had been found to have been contaminated. Now, news about the use of melamine in some Chinese aquaculture feeds reveals possible significant contamination of exported fish products over the last six years or more. Fri, 9 Jan 2009 15:06 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2009.htm Zombies, Fugu, Pufferfish and Murder; The Yellowfish Tuna Fishery in the Gulf; Commercial Fishing Season for Large Coastal Sharks Closed; Some Chinese Seafood May Contain Melamine: Pt. 2; The Gumbo Pot – Golden Oyster Stew; Subscription Renewal Time Wed, 7 Jan 2009 12:13 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2008/12-08.htm Seed Oyster Permit Explained — There is some confusion among local oyster harvesters over recent renewal notices received in the mail. As is customary, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) sends out license renewal notices to fishermen involved in seafood harvesting. Thu, 18 Dec 2008 13:49 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2008.htm Mercury, Selenium, Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Canned Tuna; Understanding Trophic Levels through Isotope Analysis; Interim Measures for Gulf of Mexico Reef Fish Effective Jan. 1, 2009; Aquaculture Fishery Management Plan Update; Gulf Longline/Sea Turtle Problems Prompt Council Action; Commerce, Interior Departments Announce Launch of National System of Marine Protected Areas; Oyster Seed Ground Vessel Permits Go on Sale; Bycatch Reduction Device Regulations Changing in Gulf of Mexico Shrimp Fishery; The Gumbo Pot – Oyster Tasso Stew Mon, 8 Dec 2008 10:43 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/shrimpclose.htm The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission announced a shrimping closure in a portion of Louisiana offshore territorial (outside) waters at its Dec. 4 meeting. The action protects small white shrimp currently over-wintering in these areas as well as additional over-wintering white shrimp anticipated to recruit to these waters. Fri, 5 Dec 2008 13:48 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/fins/2008/12-08.htm Mercury, Selenium, Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Canned Tuna — The issue of mercury contamination in fish remains in the news. New studies are being published that give significant new information on both the mechanisms of mercury contamination and the human health implications of current mercury standards. Unfortunately, it appears that all the subsequent media attention has resulted in a generalized backlash against seafood consumption, with negative health implications for some. Fri, 5 Dec 2008 13:39 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2008/11-08.htm Changes in Bycatch Reduction Devices for Gulf Shrimpers — Effective May 18, 2009, new rules governing bycatch reduction devices (BRDs) for Gulf of Mexico shrimpers will be enforced. The intent of these changes is to improve bycatch reduction in the Gulf shrimp fishery and better meet the requirements of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act. The Act states that a certified BRD must reduce finfish bycatch 30 percent by weight. Mon, 1 Dec 2008 14:44 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/insurance.htm The United States Department of Agriculture’s Federal Crop Insurance Corporation recently approved a pilot insurance program that will offer group risk insurance coverage to Louisiana oyster growers for oyster crop losses due to natural disasters. Tue, 25 Nov 2008 16:05 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/deadline2.htm Fishermen who were affected by hurricanes Katrina and Rita have until Monday, Dec. 1, 2008, to submit their application for the Federal Economic Assistance program the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) announced today. Tue, 18 Nov 2008 16:01 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/permits.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (2008) will begin selling an oyster seed ground vessel permit on Nov. 17, 2008. Fri, 14 Nov 2008 11:17 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/permit.htm The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission passed two notices of intent on Nov. 6, 2008 describing administrative procedures related to the Oyster Seed Ground Vessel Permit. Fri, 7 Nov 2008 15:24 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/fins/2008/11-08.htm Catching the Biggest Fish May Have Unintended Results — In all types of fishing, we almost always assume that the biggest fish are the best. We target the biggest fish with lures and bait and with nets that catch only larger individuals, and we often make regulations that require the smaller fish to be released. There are unquestionably positive results from some of these regulations, such as allowing individuals of a species to achieve spawning age before they can be taken. But many recent studies are showing that this approach is also having unintended consequences. Fri, 7 Nov 2008 13:17 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/aquaculture/forum.htm In 2008, the Louisiana Legislature passed a concurrent resolution asking Congress to oppose the authorization of offshore aquaculture in the Gulf of Mexico. Recognizing there are potential positives and negatives to offshore aquaculture, Louisiana Sea Grant brought together stakeholders on both sides of the issue – as well as several undecided players – in October 2008 to discuss the topic and see if it needs further examination. Representatives from the state’s four traditional user groups (recreational fishermen, commercial fishermen, charter fishermen and environmental advocates) came together in one room to voice concerns and hopes surrounding mariculture and to determine if the issue should be left where it stands or if it needs to be revisited. Thu, 6 Nov 2008 9:39 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2008.htm Catching the Biggest Fish May Have Unintended Results; Calcasieu Trout Study Enters Final Stage; New Information on Pesticides in Aquatic Systems; Compound in Oysters Effective in Preventing Cancer Growth; Turtle Excluder Device Exemption Extended; Katrina / Rita Fisheries Assistance Program Deadline Extended; New Disaster Assistance at Outreach Center in Belle Chasse; Public Comment on Shallow-Water Grouper Amendment Announced; The Gumbo Pot – Ken’s Chargrilled Oystalettas Tue, 4 Nov 2008 10:47 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/ted.htm The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has granted shrimp trawlers a temporary 30-day exemption from federal Turtle Excluder Device (TED) requirements in state and federal waters from the western end of Timbalier Island at approximately 90 degrees 33 minutes west longitude eastward to the Plaquemines/Jefferson Parish line at approximately 89 degrees 54 minutes west longitude and extending 15 nautical miles seaward. Fri, 31 Oct 2008 9:11 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2008/10-08.htm Calcasieu Trout Study Enters Final Stage — The last group of spotted seatrout was implanted with acoustic transmitters on Oct. 13th and 15th as part of a Calcasieu Lake study. Thirty four fish were captured by volunteer anglers and transported to the tagging vessel. Once transferred to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries vessel, Ladyfish, they were sedated, weighed and measured. A yellow dart tag was inserted near the fish’s dorsal fin. Sex was determined either visually during surgical implant of an acoustic transmitter, by biopsy sample or by grunting/croaking during handling. Only male fish of the Sciaenidae (drum, redfish, croaker, seatrout…) family grunt. Mon, 27 Oct 2008 12:21 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/fisheriesassistance.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) announced today the extension of the deadline to submit required forms for the Hurricane Katrina and Rita Federal Fisheries Economic Assistance program to Dec. 1, 2008. Mon, 27 Oct 2008 10:47 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/fins/2008/10-08.htm Anatomy of a Fish Kill — Hurricanes Gustav and Ike left an unfortunate legacy in freshwater systems across south and middle Louisiana: extensive fish kills. Many of the systems that had just about recovered from the 2005 hurricanes are again devoid of most fish. Tue, 14 Oct 2008 9:59 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/impactreports.htm Early observations by Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries’ (LDWF) biologists surveying the damage to fish and game habitats impacted by Hurricane Ike’s Sept. 13 landfall are now available on the LDWF Web site. Wed, 8 Oct 2008 10:27 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/oysterclosure.htm An emergency closure of the 2008/09 oyster season in the Primary Public Oyster Seed Grounds east of the Mississippi River will take effect at one-half hour after sunset on Monday, Oct. 6, 2008 until one-half hour before sunrise on Monday, Oct. 13, 2008. Mon, 6 Oct 2008 09:58 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/oysterdelay.htm The oyster season in the Lake Mechant Public Oyster Seed Grounds originally scheduled for Oct. 28-31, 2008 has been delayed until further notice by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. Thu, 2 Oct 2008 15:27 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/coastalshark2.htm At its Oct. 2 meeting, the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission (LWFC) passed a declaration of emergency and notice of intent that maintain the regulations on harvest of large coastal shark that were enacted by Secretarial action, effective Sept. 11, 2008. Thu, 2 Oct 2008 15:25 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/sisterlake2.htm The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission recently approved an additional oyster season in the Sister Lake Public Oyster Seed Reservation. This season will open at one-half hour before sunrise on Monday, Oct. 13, 2008 and close at one-half hour after sunset on Sunday, Oct. 19, 2008 in that area of Sister Lake south and east of a line with the following coordinates. Thu, 2 Oct 2008 15:22 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2008.htm Hurricanes Gustav and Ike Ravage Louisiana Fisheries; Anatomy of a Fish Kill; Refurbishing Storm Damaged Fish Ponds; Governor’s Request for Federal Fisheries Disaster Relief Granted; Gulf Community Resiliency Program Announced; Red Snapper IFQ Program to Allow Paper Forms; Species Profile: Cubera Snapper (Lutjanus cyanopterus); Commercial Grouper/Tilefish Referendum Announced; Red Snapper Allocation Transfer Rules, IFQ Report Available; NOAA Fisheries Seeks Comments on Offshore Aquaculture in the Gulf; The Gumbo Pot – Sarah's Shrimp and Grits Thu, 2 Oct 2008 09:44 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2008/09-08.htm Refurbishing Storm Damaged Fish Ponds — Storm surge damaged fish ponds have once again become an issue only three short years after recovery from Hurricane Rita. Fri, 26 Sep 2008 11:44 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/deadline.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is reminding qualified commercial resident fishermen, certain commercial fishing vessel license holders, wholesale/retail seafood dealers and charter boat fishing guides, impacted by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, that the deadline for submitting required forms for federal fisheries economic assistance is Oct. 31, 2008. Thu, 25 Sep 2008 15:17 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/report.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) has released The 2007 Louisiana Shrimp Marketing Survey Report, which is an in-depth study of dockside shrimp dealers and the role they play in the Louisiana seafood industry. Thu, 25 Sep 2008 15:15 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/relief.htm Governor Bobby Jindal has received confirmation from U.S. Commerce Secretary M. Carlos Gutierrez that a formal fishery resource disaster in the Gulf of Mexico has been declared due to the devastation of Hurricanes Gustav and Ike. Thu, 18 Sep 2008 8:17 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/alligator.htm Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Secretary Robert Barham has signed a declaration of emergency to extend the 2008 wild alligator season to official sunset on Oct. 19, in both zones, due to Hurricanes Gustav and Ike. Thu, 18 Sep 2008 8:14 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2008/08-08.htm Fisheries Update — Louisiana fishermen are reminded of the approaching deadline of Oct. 31, 2008, to apply for the Fisheries Assistance Program. The direct assistance program is sourced through the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and is administered by South Central Planning and Development Commission. Eligible fishermen should have received an application packet in May. Eligibility for the program is based on trip ticket recorded sales or purchases of seafood between Sept. 1, 2004 and Aug. 31, 2005. Anyone with questions concerning this program should contact South Central Planning and Development at 1-800-630-3791 or 985-655-1051. Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:37 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/assistance.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is reminding qualified commercial resident fishermen, certain commercial fishing vessel license holders, wholesale/retail seafood dealers and charter boat fishing guides that the deadline for submitting the required forms for participation in the federal fisheries economic assistance program is Oct. 31, 2008. Wed, 20 Aug 2008 11:38 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/oysterseed.htm The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission passed a notice of intent at its Aug. 7, 2008 meeting to enact rules for the oyster seed ground vessel permit. Fri, 8 Aug 2008 12:50 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/harvestrules.htm At its Aug. 7 meeting, the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission issued a declaration of emergency and notice of intent to modify rules for the harvest of gray triggerfish, the recreational harvest of greater amberjack, and issued a notice of intent to establish rules regarding devices required to be on board and in use when harvesting or possessing reef fish in federal waters. These actions will provide consistent regulations with those in place in federal waters offshore of Louisiana. Fri, 8 Aug 2008 12:50 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/coastalshark.htm At its Aug. 7 meeting, the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission issued a declaration of emergency and notice of intent to modify rules for the harvest of shark in the large coastal shark species group (great hammerhead, scalloped hammerhead, smooth hammerhead, nurse shark, blacktip shark, bull shark, lemon shark, sandbar shark, silky shark, spinner shark and tiger shark). Fri, 8 Aug 2008 12:50 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/oysterseason.htm Opening and closing dates for the 2008-09 oyster season on the public oyster areas were set at the Aug. 7 meeting of the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission. Fri, 8 Aug 2008 12:50 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/fallshrimp.htm The fall inshore shrimp season will open in Shrimp Management Zones 1, 2 and 3 at noon on Monday, Aug. 11, 2008. The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission approved the season dates at its Aug. 7 meeting, based upon recommendations presented by Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Marine Fisheries Division biological staff and public comment. Fri, 8 Aug 2008 12:50 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/fins/2008/08-08.htm Species Profile: Rock Hind — This handsome little grouper is fairly common in Louisiana, sometimes taken by anglers targeting snapper at relatively shallow rigs. But though it occurs all across the state, rock hind is not abundant in any location, so most fishermen who reel one in haven’t seen it before and may not be able to identify it. In fact, it is very tasty, has no size limit, and is counted in the five-per-person aggregate bag limit for black, gag, red, yellowfin, scamp, yellowmouth, yellowedge, misty, snowy and red hind groupers. Thu, 7 Aug 2008 13:38 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2008.htm Species Profile: Rock Hind; Recreational Red Snapper Fishery Closes August 5, 2008; Wetland Values Publication Available; Controlling Salvinia Infestation; New State Legislation on Fisheries Topics; Senate Bills and Resolutions; President Signs Clean Boating Act Legislation; The Gumbo Pot – Pecan Encrusted Red Snapper Mon, 4 Aug 2008 10:36 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2008/07-08.htm Salvinia Management — Two species of the invasive, aquatic salvinia cause problems in Louisiana. Common salvinia, Salvinia minima, which is native to Central and South America, was first identified in Florida in the 1930s. From there it has spread to every southern state in the United States. Giant salvinia, Salvinia molesta, also native to South America, has spread to almost every temperate and tropical country worldwide. It has become known as the most noxious of all aquatic weeds. Wed, 23 JuL 2008 08:40 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/additional.htm The 2008 spring inshore shrimp season in Shrimp Management Zone 1 will close on Saturday, July 12, at 6 p.m. except for the following portions of Zone 1. Fri, 11 Jul 2008 12:10 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2008.htm Flathead Catfish: The Freshwater Grouper; Web Site Addresses Questions about Red Snapper; Wildlife Federation Laments LDWF Revenue Issues, Legislative Inaction; Proposed Changes to Regulations for Gulf Bycatch Reduction Devices; Gulf Council News; Gulf of Mexico Marine Debris Project Launches Revised Web Site; Shrimp Season Update; The Gumbo Pot – Sautéed Cobia with Louisiana Crab Butter over Fingerling Potatoes and Caramelized Fennel With Louisiana Jumbo Lump Crabmeat and Vegetable Pearls Tue, 1 Jul 2008 9:21 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/portions.htm The 2008 spring inshore shrimp season in Shrimp Management Zones 1 and 3 will close on Tuesday, July 1, at 6:00 a.m. except for the following portions of Zones 1 and 3. Fri, 27 Jun 2008 15:03 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/questions.htm New federal rules concerning recreational and commercial fishing for red snapper have raised numerous questions about the regulations and the species’ biology. Answers to many of those questions can now be found on the Louisiana Sea Grant Fisheries Web site (www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/faqs/index.html) Fri, 27 Jun 2008 10:17 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2008/06-08.htm Blue Crabs — Considered by many to be the most delectable seafood of all, the blue crab is quite abundant and widespread along Gulf and Atlantic coastal states. Its scientific name, Callinectes sapidus, which translates to “beautiful swimmer,” was more than likely given the blue crab due to its bright colors of green, blue, red and white and not its swimming grace. Adult male crabs can be distinguished from females by their blue claws, while the females’ are tipped with red. Louisiana is the nation’s top blue crab producing state at over 52 million pounds landed in 2006, with a dockside value of $31.7 million dollars. Wed, 25 Jun 2008 15:09 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/remainder.htm The 2008 spring inshore shrimp season in the remainder of Shrimp Management Zone 2 extending from the Atchafalaya River Ship Channel at Eugene Island as delineated by the Channel red buoy line westward to the western shore of Vermilion Bay and Southwest Pass at Marsh Island and from the western shore of Bayou Lafourche eastward to the eastern shore of South Pass of the Mississippi River will close on Monday, June 30, at 6 a.m. Wed, 25 Jun 2008 11:01 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/protection.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is reminding the public that the take and possession of grass carp and the use of gill and trammel nets in a restricted area of Avoyelles Parish where the department has stocked grass carp for aquatic weed control is prohibited. This new rule went into effect on May 20. Tue, 24 Jun 2008 15:03 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/iattlake.htm Iatt Lake in Grant Parish, which is currently undergoing a drawdown to reduce the infestation of aquatic plants, will remain open to fishing until July 7. Mon, 23 Jun 2008 11:21 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/sharks.htm Commercial fishing for large coastal sharks, as defined by Louisiana rule (L.A.C. 76:VII.357), will remain closed in Louisiana waters until 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1, 2009. Thu, 19 Jun 2008 8:46 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/hackberrybay.htm Approximately 50 acres of the Hackberry Bay Public Oyster Seed Reservation in Lafourche and Jefferson Parishes were recently rehabilitated by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Marine Fisheries Division as part of a federally-funded oyster ground rehabilitation effort. Wed, 18 Jun 2008 11:09 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/fins/2008/06-08.htm Mussel Watch Tracks Coastal Pollution – The idea of using the flesh of mussels or oysters to monitor pollution makes perfect sense. The bivalves are filter feeders, so they ingest particles from the water and absorb contaminants through their gills. Lacking a liver to remove contaminants, they tend to concentrate any pollutants present. They are also sessile, so they track the pollution levels of a specific site, rather than moving around and accumulating an “average” level. Fri, 6 Jun 2008 10:05 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/oystercargo.htm The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission ratified a declaration of emergency allowing permitted vessels to transfer oysters on board from harvest vessels for mechanical refrigeration within five hours of the beginning of daily harvest at their June 5 meeting. Fri, 6 Jun 2008 9:57 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2008.htm Mussel Watch Tracks Coastal Pollution; Historic Viosca Photos Available Online; NOAA Considering Guidelines for Commercial IFQ Programs; Underwater Obstructions; Plan Amendment for Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sactuary Underway; New Gulf Reef Fish Gear Requirements Effective June 1; The Gumbo Pot – Fish Boulettes Mon, 2 Jun 2008 13:28 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2008/05-08.htm New Snapper Rules for Anglers — Recreational red snapper season opens June 1, 2008, with several new rules going into effect. First of all, the season will be abbreviated with it set to close Aug. 5, 2008. The reason for the shortened season is the fact that Florida and Texas refused to implement restricted harvest regulations in their respective state waters to be consistent with federal requirements. Fri, 30 May 2008 13:35 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/fins/2008/05-08.htm Red Snapper Regulations: How We Got Into This Mess – In Louisiana, marine fisheries are regulated by the state (out to three nautical miles, nm) and by the federal government within the exclusive economic zone (EEZ: from 3 to 200 nm). Since red snapper are a relatively deep-water fish, nearly all come from the federal waters off Louisiana. In nearly every instance, Louisiana state regulations have mirrored the federal ones. Tue, 6 May 2008 12:43 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2008.htm The Red Snapper Issue; Fisheries Service Proposes Amberjack and Gray Triggerfish Rule; Federal Data Requirements for Charter Fishing; The Gumbo Pot – Ken’s Crabocado Dip Mon, 5 May 2008 13:32 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/nolicense.htm The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission officially proclaimed June 7 and 8 “No License Required” fishing days for Louisiana citizens and visitors during their May 1 meeting. The promotional fishing dates are provided for novices and non-anglers as an opportunity to experience recreational fishing. Thu, 1 May 2008 15:28 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/springshrimp.htm The opening dates of the 2008 Louisiana spring shrimp season were announced at the May 1 meeting of the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission. The declaration of emergency, which established the season opening dates, followed a presentation of the latest biological and hydrological data compiled by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Marine Fisheries Division and public comment from shrimpers, members of the shrimp industry and other concerned citizens. Thu, 1 May 2008 15:26 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2008/04-08.htm Calcasieu Trout Study Enters Second Year — The Calcasieu Lake spotted seatrout tagging and telemetry research project has entered its second year. Transmitters were surgically implanted in an additional 55 fish the week of April 14 – 20. Including fish tagged and implanted in May and October of 2007, this brings the total to 150. Thu, 1 May 2008 10:34 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/youthbass.htm In an effort to increase participation in freshwater fishing by the state’s youth, the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission (LWFC) will allow the take of undersized black bass by anglers 15 years of age and younger during the Memorial and Labor Day weekends on select waterways. Tue, 22 Apr 2008 15:26 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/publicoyster.htm Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Secretary Robert Barham announced a 14-day oyster season in the public oyster seed grounds of St. Bernard Parish in the Department of Health and Hospitals (DHH) harvest areas one, two, and three. These areas will open at one-half hour before sunrise on Sunday, April 13, 2008 and will close at one-half hour after sunset on Saturday, April 26, 2008. Thur, 10 Apr 2008 10:08 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/input.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) is continuing its effort to provide assistance to the state’s fishing industries through a $41 million federal fisheries disaster assistance grant. The department invites representatives of the recreational and charterboat fishing industries and the fishing public to participate in the planning process in a public meeting April 22, 2008. Wed, 9 Apr 2008 8:17 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/shrimpseason.htm Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Secretary Robert Barham announced that the shrimp season in that portion of Louisiana offshore territorial waters south of the Inside/Outside Shrimp Line as described in R.S.56:495, from the eastern shore of the Atchafalaya River Ship Channel at Eugene Island as delineated by the Channel red buoy line to the U.S. Coast Guard navigational light off the northwest shore of Caillou Boca at 29 degrees 03 minutes 10 seconds north latitude and 90 degrees 50 minutes 27 seconds west longitude, will reopen to shrimping on April 15, 2008 at 12 noon. Wed, 9 Apr 2008 8:15 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2008.htm Early Closure of the Red Snapper Recreational Fishery; Gulf Council Meets in Baton Rouge April 4-11; Proposed State Legislation - Fisheries Topics; The (Latest) Invasion of New Orleans; Shrimp Flavor Defined; Family Profile: Centrarchidae - Sunfishes - Part 4 - The Crappies; Shrimp Fishing Safety Meetings in Abbeville; Underwater Obstructions; The Gumbo Pot – Herbed Shrimp and Feta Cheese Casserole Fri, 4 Apr 2008 08:33 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/fins/2008/04-08.htm Louisiana’s Newest Aquatic Invaders – In 2003, resource managers in the 28 states of the Mississippi River drainage basin were surveyed about the aquatic invasive species that were ranked “most troublesome.” They identified 46 plants, microorganisms, mollusks, fish and mammals. The list includes some of the species that have been causing major problems in Louisiana, such as the water weeds Hydrilla and Salvinia and the Asian carps (grass, silver, bighead and black carps). Thu, 3 Apr 2008 13:32 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/sherburne.htm The South Farm area of the Sherburne Wildlife Management Area (WMA) is open to recreational crawfishing from April 1 to July 31. The South Farm area is located on the eastern side of the Sherburne WMA, which is approximately 20 miles from Baton Rouge. Wed, 2 Apr 2008 10:57 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2008/03-08.htm Shrimp Flavors — Approximately 90 percent of all shrimp consumed in the United States are imported, the majority which are farm raised. Many U.S. consumers are oblivious to the differences in shrimp flavors. However, for true shrimp connoisseurs there are distinct taste differences. What causes these taste differences was the focus of a research paper by members of the Texas Sea Grant Extension Program. Tue, 18 Mar 2008 12:38 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/dockside/2008/03-08.htm Caught in the Rip Tide: The Louisiana Shrimping Industry – More than two thousand years ago, Great King Canute stood on the shores of the North Sea and commanded the tides to halt. He ordered them to not wet his sandals. To the surprise of his followers, the sea did not obey. As one focuses on the coming tide, one is forced to wonder what the future holds for Louisiana’s Vietnamese shrimping industry. To better understand the state of affairs, I will write a three part series examining where the industry came from, where it is and where it is going. King Canute failed to halt the coming tides. However, the fate of the shrimping industry is far less certain. Mon, 17 Mar 2008 13:02 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/snapper.htm The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission issued a declaration of emergency and notice of intent to modify the commercial Individual Fishing Quota (IFQ) red snapper commercial landing and offloading requirements. Wed, 12 Mar 2008 9:03 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/debris.htm If you see debris in a Louisiana public waterway, "Report It!" That is the message of a coalition of federal and state agencies behind the Louisiana Marine Debris program, which was created to identify, document and remove marine debris caused by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita that continues to litter the state's waterways. Thu, 6 Mar 2008 13:33 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/fins/2008/03-08.htm From the River to the Sea and Back Again – Amazing Migrations of the River Shrimp Macrobrachium Ohione -- Recent work conducted at the University of Louisiana Lafayette has shed new light on a species that has a long fishery history in the state. The river shrimp is well known in the Mississippi, Atchafalaya and Red River systems. It was a common item on New Orleans menus early in the 1900s, but now supports only a limited bait fishery in some areas of Louisiana. Wed, 5 Mar 2008 10:27 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2008.htm From the River to the Sea and Back Again - Amazing Migrations of the River Shrimp Macrobrachium Ohione; Bass Angler Plates Available; Notice of Federal Data Collections in the Gulf Shrimp Fishery in 2008; New Toll-Free Telephone Number and Other Changes Announced for NOAA Fisheries Southeast Permits Office; Seafood HACCP Training Offered; Update on Marine Debris in Louisiana; New Federal Rules for Bycatch Reduction Devices in Shrimp Nets; The Gumbo Pot – Prawns and Grits Casserole Mon, 3 Mar 2008 09:31 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/bourglicenses.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Licensing Section will be selling commercial fishing licenses from the Bourg office from April 1 to 3. Tue, 26 Feb 2008 16:17 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/management/index.html PDF document – Water quality in crawfish ponds is probably the most important factor influencing survival and growth, and dissolved oxygen is considered to be the most important component of water quality. Water quality is influenced by many environmental and biological factors, such as the type of vegetation planted in the summer, when the vegetation is planted, how the vegetation is managed prior to flooding and when the pond is flooded. Tue, 19 Feb 2008 13:36 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/management/index.html PDF document – Crawfish farming is considered by many to be a relatively environmentally friendly use of land. Incorporating crawfish aquaculture with traditionalagriculture serves as a productive form of land and water conservation. Often, land that is only marginally acceptable for traditional row crops is used for crawfish production. Tue, 19 Feb 2008 13:32 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/crawfishfarming.htm A series of crawfish production meetings sponsored by the LSU AgCenter will provide information to help farmers. Thu, 14 Feb 2008 11:58 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2008/02-08.htm Crawfish Food Habits — When most folks in southern Louisiana think of crawfish production, the vision of a flooded rice field comes to mind. It is a common belief that crawfish derive their greatest nutritional needs from the remaining rice stubble after the grain has been harvested. While this is true to some degree, it’s the ecosystem and its food chain created by flooding harvested rice stubble which makes crawfish production in rice fields so prolific. Fri, 8 Feb 2008 12:26 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/commission.htm The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission issued a declaration of emergency and notice of intent to modify creel and size limits and to eliminate the commercial closed season for vermilion snapper, and to modify the commercial Individual Fishing Quota (IFQ) red snapper commercial landing and offloading requirements at their Feb. 7, 2008 meeting, as recommended by the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. Fri, 8 Feb 2008 9:54 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/sisterlake.htm The Louisiana of Wildlife and Fisheries Commission recently approved an additional oyster season in the Sister Lake Public Oyster Seed Reservation. This season will open at one-half hour before sunrise on Monday, Feb. 11, 2008 and close at one-half hour after sunset on Friday, Feb. 29, 2008. Fri, 8 Feb 2008 9:52 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2008.htm Gray Snapper Moving Up the List ; NOAA Fisheries Finalizes New Red Snapper Regulations; Family Profile: Centrarchidae - Sunfishes (Part 3: The Longear and the Redear); LDWF Plans New Crab Trap Cleanup for Terrebonne; Dock Talk -- Connecting the Dots: Global Warming and Ocean Acidification; The Gumbo Pot – File Gumbo D’Ecrevisse Wed, 6 Feb 2008 13:58 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/fins/2008/02-08.htm U.S., Mexico Cooperate on Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle -- Of the eight species of sea turtles in the world, the Kemp’s Ridley, Lepidochelys kempii, has been considered the most endangered. It is also the smallest sea turtle and the only species that nests primarily during the daytime. Wed, 30 Jan 2008 10:12 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/grasscarp.htm The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries commission adopted a notice of intent that would prohibit the take and possession of grass carp and use of gill and trammel nets in restricted places the department has stocked grass carp for aquatic weed control. Thu, 10 Jan 2008 9:25 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/reeffish.htm A declaration of emergency regarding the 2008-09 commercial fishing seasons for reef fish was issued by the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission at the Jan. 8 2008 meeting, as recommended by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF). Thu, 10 Jan 2008 9:23 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/kingmackerel.htm A declaration of emergency setting the 2008 commercial fishing season for king mackerel was issued by the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission at the Jan. 8, 2008 meeting. The commercial fishing season for king mackerel in Louisiana state waters will open at 12:01 a.m. on July 1, 2008, and will remain open until the 2008 commercial quota for the western Gulf of Mexico is harvested or projected to be harvested. Thu, 10 Jan 2008 9:21 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2008/01-08.htm Louisiana Fur Trapping — Early settlers of coastal Louisiana found a bounty of income in the form of muskrat furs. After several cold fronts, trappers knew that the muskrat’s fur had grown long and thick and was prime for the fur market. Tue, 8 Jan 2008 12:01 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2008.htm Gulf Reef Fish Anglers Should Look for More Requirements; NOAA Considering Changes Amberjack, Gray Triggerfish Fisheries; Kemp's Ridley Turtles Continue Strong Rebound; NOAA Fisheries Announces Opening of the Deep Water Grouper Shallow Water Grouper and Tilefish Fisheries; Family Profile: Centrarchidae – Sunfishes – Part 2; Underwater Obstructions; The Gumbo Pot – Corn, Shrimp and Crabmeat Bisque; Subscription Renewal Time Fri, 4 Jan 2008 13:34 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/fins/2008/01-08.htm Gulf Reef Fish Anglers Should Anticipate More Requirements -- Offshore bottom fishing will have some new requirements this year. Sometime in early 2008 look for new rules in both the commercial and recreational fisheries in “federal” waters from 3 to 200 miles offshore. Thu, 3 Jan 2008 15:47 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2008/franze.htm Carol Franze is the new Marine Extension agent in the Tangipahoa and St. Tammany parish area for Louisiana Sea Grant and the LSU AgCenter. Thu, 3 Jan 2008 13:53 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2007/12-07.htm Fisheries Infrastructure Recovery — Hurricanes Katrina and Rita devastated the commercial, charter and recreational fisheries industries in coastal Louisiana. Much of the infrastructure that supported the industry along the coast, which included docks, wharves, ice houses, loading and offloading equipment, cold storage, processing, and shipping facilities, and lifts, boat ramps and other critical infrastructure to clean-up and remove vessels, was damaged or destroyed. Louisiana’s fishermen and fisheries related businesses suffered great financial losses with estimates ranging from $580 million to almost $2 billion. Thu, 20 Dec 2007 15:43 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/notice.htm The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission passed a notice of intent that would allow the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) to permit and regulate marine events on Louisiana waterways at their Dec. 6 meeting. Fri, 7 Dec 2007 10:36 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/expansion.htm The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission approved a final rule to add certain state-owned water bottoms in Terrebonne Parish to the public oyster seed ground system. The final rule describes the proposed designation of approximately 500 water bottom acres to the existing Lake Mechant Public Oyster Seed Grounds. The commission originally passed a notice of intent on Aug. 2, 2007. Fri, 7 Dec 2007 10:33 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/portionclosed.htm The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission announced a shrimping closure in a portion of Louisiana offshore territorial (outside) waters at its Dec. 6, 2007 meeting. The action protects small white shrimp currently over-wintering in these areas as well as additional over-wintering white shrimp anticipated to recruit to these waters. Fri, 7 Dec 2007 10:28 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/fins/2007/12-07.htm In the national push to expand United States aquaculture in offshore waters, it seems that everyone is either all for it or dead-set against it. There is so much misinformation circulating that it has become difficult to make an informed decision on the issue. Let’s look at some of the background of the National Aquaculture Plan and some of the facts about marine aquaculture in this country. Wed, 5 Dec 2007 12:03 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2007.htm Putting Offshore Aquaculture in Perspective; Gulf Council to Conduct Aquaculture Amendment Hearings; Aquatic Ecosystem Management Part 3 – Solving the Problems; Family Profile: Centrarchidae – Sunfishes; Underwater Obstructions; The Gumbo Pot – Pecan-Crusted Speckled Trout; Looking for a Holiday Gift?; Subscription Renewal Time Mon, 3 Dec 2007 13:25 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/bui.htm Thu Bui is the new Marine Extension agent in St. Mary, Iberia and Vermilion parishes for Louisiana Sea Grant (LSG) and the LSU AgCenter. Tue, 20 Nov 2007 9:48 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/sisterlake.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries has announced that the 2007-08 oyster season in the Sister Lake Public Oyster Seed Reservation will close at one-half hour after sunset on Monday, Nov. 19, 2007. Fri, 16 Nov 2007 9:42 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2007/11-07.htm Hypothermia – A Threat to Outdoorsmen — Hypothermia occurs when a person loses more heat than his/her body can generate. Louisiana’s outdoorsmen should be aware of this threat, since many outdoor activities take place throughout the winter months and many take place on the water. Hypothermia occurs when a person has been in cold water or cold air long enough for body temperatures to be dangerously lowered. The real threat arises when the onset of hypothermia is not recognized. Thu, 15 Nov 2007 15:56 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/fins/2007/11-07.htm Fish in Trees — Study after study of flowing streams and river systems have demonstrated the value of coarse woody debris (CWD, or fallen trees) to fish. In salmon streams and rivers and slow-moving bayous, CWD provides more habitat complexity, and generally, more fish. Thu, 1 Nov 2007 8:58 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2007.htm Fish in Trees; Regulations to Change for Bycatch Reduction Devices in the Shrimp Industry; Aquatic Ecosystem Management: Part 2 -- Identifying the Problems; NMFS Seeking Comments on Red Snapper Regulations; Marina Directory Available Online; Undwater Obstructions; Looking for a Holiday Gift?; The Gumbo Pot – Carp Burgers; Subscription Renewal Time Thu, 1 Nov 2007 8:43 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/workshops.htm The Gulf of Mexico Sea Grant College Programs are planning a series of workshops in Gulf states to discuss priorities for a regional marine research plan. Thu, 1 Nov 2007 8:33 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/lakemechant2.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries has announced that the 2007/2008 oyster season in the Lake Mechant Public Oyster Seed Grounds will close at one-half hour after sunset on Monday, October 29, 2007. Fri, 26 Oct 2007 14:48 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2007/10-07.htm Calcasieu Trout Research Continues — The Calcasieu Lake Spotted Seatrout tagging and telemetry research project entered a second phase on October 9th and 10th, 2007, when transmitters were surgically implanted in 24 fish. Including the fish tagged and implanted in May of 2007, this brings the total to 75. Fish implanted with transmitters also are tagged with an external yellow dart tag just below the dorsal fin. Wed, 24 Oct 2007 12:37 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/handbookinfo.htm#marinadirectory A listing of marinas in Louisiana, including their facilities and amenities. Mon, 22 Oct 2007 10:18 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2007/09-07.htm Calcasieu Oysters Season Approaching — The opening of oyster season in the Calcasieu Lake public oyster area is fast approaching. The West Cove Conditional Management Area (west side of Calcasieu ship channel) will open one-half hour before sunrise on Oct. 15, 2007, and will close one-half hour after sunset on April 30, 2008. The Calcasieu Lake Conditional Management Area (east side of Calcasieu ship channel) will open one-half hour before sunrise on Nov. 1, 2007, and will close one-half hour after sunset on April 30, 2008. The sack limit for Calcasieu Lake is set at 15 one-and-one-half bushel sacks per day as provided for in R.S. 56:435.1.1. However, these conservation actions will not supercede public health closures. Mon, 1 Oct 2007 14:07 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/fins/2007/10-07.htm Whale Sharks: Worth More than Their Weight in Tofu — The largest fish in the sea has been in the news lately, in both good news and not-so-good. Mon, 1 Oct 2007 14:01 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2007.htm Whale Sharks: Worth More than Their Weight in Tofu; Application Period for Gulf Shrimp Vessel Moratorium Permit Expires Oct. 26; Spotted Seatrout the Top Catch for Gulf Anglers Third Year in a Row; Aquatic Ecosystem Management: Part 1 - Terminology and Concepts; Big Bass in Rivers? You're Kidding Me!; Interim Measures for Gulf of Mexico Red Snapper and Shrimp Fisheries Extended - Recreational Snapper Season Closing; Fisheries Disaster Assistance Program Approved by Congress - LDWF Announces Meetings; The Gumbo Pot - Gaspergou Courtbouillion Mon, 1 Oct 2007 8:16 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/assistance.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) will present general information on the new $41 million federal fisheries disaster assistance program at a series of public information sessions, Sept. 25-27, sponsored by the Louisiana Recovery Authority (LRA) and Office of Community Development (OCD). Fri, 21 Sep 2007 14:29 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/sharks.htm Commercial fishing for large coastal sharks, as defined by Louisiana rule (L.A.C. 76:VII.357), closes in Louisiana waters at 11:30 p.m. on Sept. 22, 2007, and the closure will remain in effect until 12:01 a.m. on Jan. 1, 2008. Federal waters of the Gulf of Mexico will also be closed for commercial harvest of large coastal sharks during the same time period. Tue, 18 Sep 2007 7:45 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/fins/2007/09-07.htm Overfishing: Not the Whole Story — The collapse of the North Atlantic cod fishery is widely described as the perfect example of overfishing and mismanagement. Analyses of the causes focus on “a range of social and political factors that were implicated in the collapse of the stocks, including overfishing, government mismanagement and the disregard of scientific uncertainty.” Thu, 6 Sep 2007 13:54 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2007.htm North Atlantic Cod Collapse Reevaluated; Record Fish Catches Rebounding; Family Profile: Moronidae - the Temperate Basses; Survey Seeks Input on Marine Research Needs; The Gumbo Pot – Smoked King Mackerel Fri, 31 Aug 2007 11:07 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2007/08-07.htm Bluewings - Early Migrants — For diehard waterfowl hunters suffering from withdrawal, a brief respite is right around the corner. The September Teal Season offers hunters an opportunity to harvest early migrating green-winged and cinnamon teals – but primarily the blue-winged teal (Anas discors). Thu, 30 Aug 2007 13:54 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/survey.htm Anyone interested in Gulf of Mexico coastal and marine issues is invited to complete a survey that will help scientists and funding agencies prioritize regional research and informational needs. Participants can help shape the future direction of Gulf of Mexico research, discovery and information dissemination by identifying the topics they believe are most important. The survey, which takes approximately 10 minutes to complete, is available online at http://masgc.org/gmrp. Fri, 10 Aug 2007 14:35 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/lakemechant.htm The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission approved a notice of intent to add certain state-owned water bottoms in Terrebonne Parish to the public oyster seed ground system. Fri, 3 Aug 2007 8:28 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/oysterseasonset.htm Opening and closing dates for the 2007-08 oyster season on the public oyster areas were set at the Aug. 2, 2007 meeting of the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission. Fri, 3 Aug 2007 8:25 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/fallshrimp.htm The fall inshore shrimp season will open in Shrimp Management Zone 3 at noon on Monday, Aug. 6, 2007 and in Zones 1 and 2 at noon on Monday, Aug. 13, 2007. Season dates were approved by the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission at its Aug. 2 meeting, based upon recommendations presented by Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Marine Fisheries Division biological staff and public comment. Fri, 3 Aug 2007 8:21 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2007.htm Know Your Tunas – The Medium Tunas: Albacore, Bigeye and Yellowfin; Ciguatera Fish Poisoning in the Northern Gulf; NMFS Seeks Comments on Snapper and Shrimp Amendments; Underwater Obstructions; Now Available from Louisiana Sea Grant; The Gumbo Pot – Crabmeat Spaghetti Wed, 1 Aug 2007 13:47 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/drawdown.htm The Claiborne Parish Watershed District Commission has requested a 2 to 3 foot drawdown of Lake Claiborne beginning Sept. 17, 2007. Wed, 1 Aug 2007 8:15 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/fins/2007/08-07.htm Ciguatera Poisoning in the Northern Gulf — Most people who have heard of ciguatera associate it with tropical locations — maybe the South Pacific or Caribbean. In fact, Bob Shipp’s 1994 edition of Guide to the Fishes of the Gulf of Mexico states “ciguatera is strictly a tropical malady, with no verified reports from the United States mainland areas.” Tue, 31 Jul 2007 13:41 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2007/07-07.htm Spaghetti Worms in Fish — Spaghetti worms are common parasites of saltwater fish in the Sciaenid or drum family, which include speckled and white trout, black drum, redfish and croakers. Most commonly known as spaghetti worms, each fish actually has a specific parasite which prefers its flesh. Most common in sea trout is Poecilancistrium caryophyllum. Worms found in black drum are most often Pseudogrillotia pIeistacantha. Thu, 12 Jul 2007 12:21 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/advisory.htm Eligible domestic shrimp producers who have been affected by foreign dumping of shrimp have until July 30, 2007 to file certifications with the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection (BCBP) for an offset of qualifying expenditures under the Continued Dumping and Subsidy Offset Act of 2000 commonly known as the "Byrd Amendment." Thu, 12 Jul 2007 11:23CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/shrimpclose.htm The 2007 spring inshore shrimp season within Shrimp Management Zone 1 except for the open waters of Breton and Chandeleur Sounds as described by the double-rig line (LA R.S.56:495.1) will close on Monday, July 16 at 6 p.m. Effective with this closure, all state inside waters except for the open waters of Breton and Chandeleur Sounds will be closed to shrimping. State territorial waters south of the Inside/Outside shrimp line, as described in LA R.S.56:495, will also remain open to shrimping. Thu, 12 Jul 2007 11:20CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/shrimpzone3.htm The 2007 spring inshore shrimp season in the remaining portion of Shrimp Management Zone 3 currently open to shrimping, which includes the Calcasieu Ship Channel originating at a line between Channel Markers 85 and 86 southward to a point originating along the inside/outside shrimp line at Calcasieu Pass as described in LA R.S.56:495(A) and including East Pass from its origin at the Calcasieu Ship Channel to the south end of Calcasieu Lake and West Pass from its origin at the Calcasieu Ship Channel to the south end of West Cove will close on Saturday, July 7, at 6 p.m. Zone 1 will remain open until further notice. State territorial waters south of the Inside/Outside shrimp line, as described in Louisiana R.S.56:495, will also remain open to shrimping. Tues, 3 Jul 2007 16:03CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/millcreek.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) has received a request from the Mill Creek Lake Commission to conduct a drawdown on Mill Creel Reservoir in Bienville Parish. The request was approved and LDWF plans to lower the lake beginning Sept. 4. Tues, 3 Jul 2007 16:00CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/fins/2007/07-07.htm Fishing Participation Falling — A few years ago, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service reported that participation in recreational fishing had fallen rapidly between 1991 and 2001 – from 35.6 million to 34.1 million. Mon, 2 Jul 2007 9:38 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2007.htm Cobia Culture; Cobia Fishing in Louisiana; Fishing Participation Falling; The Ripple Effect of Shark Depletion; Dissolved Oxygen Levels Affect the Hooking Mortality of Bass; Gulf Council to Conduct Public Hearings on Aquaculture Amendment; The Gumbo Pot – Trout Almondine Mon, 2 Jul 2007 8:55 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/shrimpclosures.htm Effective Saturday, June 30, at 6 p.m., all inshore waters west of Bayou Lafourche except for a portion of the Calcasieu Ship Channel located in Cameron Parish will be closed to shrimping. An additional closure of all inshore waters between Bayou Lafourche and the eastern shore of South Pass of the Mississippi River will become effective six-days later on Friday, July 6, at 6 p.m. Tue, 27 Jun 2007 13:20CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/nantachielake.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) has scheduled a drawdown for Nantachie Lake in Grant Parish to begin in mid-July. This will be the third consecutive drawdown, as was recommended by the LDWF in a management plan written in May of 2005 for the control of nuisance aquatic vegetation. Tue, 26 Jun 2007 16:27CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/shrimpzone2.htm The 2007 spring inshore shrimp season in a portion of Shrimp Management Zone 2 extending from the Atchafalaya River Ship Channel at Eugene Island as delineated by the Channel red buoy line to the western shore of Vermilion Bay and Southwest Pass at Marsh Island will close on Monday, June 25, at one-half hour before official sunrise. The remaining portion of Zone 2 from the Atchafalaya River Ship Channel at Eugene Island as delineated by the Channel red buoy line to the eastern shore of South Pass of the Mississippi River and all of Zones 1 and 3 will remain open until further notice. State territorial waters south of the Inside/Outside shrimp line, as described in Louisiana R.S.56:495, will also remain open to shrimping. Fri, 22 Jun 2007 8:23 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2007/06-07.htm Cobia – The Unusual Fish — There is something special about cobia, Rachycentron canadum, also known as ling or lemon-fish that gets an angler’s heart pounding. Although quite common in the northern Gulf from late spring through early fall, this unusual fish is always viewed as a reward from the sea when landed. Another reason for excitement is it’s excellent table fare. The flesh of the cobia is white, flaky and mild flavored, making it a desirable ingredient in many fish recipes. Fri, 8 Jun 2007 10:32 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/reefbuilding.htm Federally funded reef building activities, overseen by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF), are rehabilitating sections of the state’s public oyster resources that were impacted by Hurricane Katrina. Tue, 5 Jun 2007 15:03 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/fins/2007/06-07.htm Do Bass Tournaments Kill Too Many Fish? — The perception that tournament fishing has negative impacts on bass populations is widespread among non-tournament anglers. Many studies have shown that heavy tournament activity does affect bass fishing, but generally not to the degree that many believe. Fri, 1 Jun 2007 13:13 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/groupers.htm The commercial fishery for deepwater groupers in Louisiana waters will close at 12:01 a.m. on June 2, 2007, and will remain closed until the opening of the spring commercial deepwater grouper season on Jan. 1, 2008. The deepwater grouper assemblage includes misty, snowy, yellowedge, Warsaw grouper, and speckled hind. Thu, 31 May 2007 14:01 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/ezstop.htm Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Enforcement Division agents on cited the owners of the EZ Stop convenience store in Ponchatoula on May 18, 2007. The owners were charged with purchasing illegal game fish from LDWF undercover agents. Wed, 30 May 2007 13:52 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/oysterlease2.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Office of Fisheries announced today that the Private Oyster Lease Rehabilitation Program (POLR) is set to begin May 25. In order to participate in the program a signed Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with the State of Louisiana is required. Fri, 18 May 2007 15:15 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/wildcrawfish.htm Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) personnel collected samples of wild crawfish from consenting crawfishermen at various locations in the Atchafalaya Basin on May 15, 2007 to assess the presence of white spot syndrome virus (WSSV) in these populations. The samples will be delivered to the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine for analysis. Fri, 18 May 2007 8:04 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/paddlefish2.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) has announced that on May 20, 2007, it will once again be legal to recreationally harvest paddlefish, sometimes referred to as spoonbill catfish, from many of Louisiana's waters. Wed, 16 May 2007 9:29 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/violations2.htm Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Enforcement Division Agents cited two men on April 28 for alleged red drum violations in Plaquemines parish. Tue, 8 May 2007 15:22 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/gulfdebris.htm The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has launched a new Web site that offers free online maps of marine debris in the northern Gulf of Mexico. The data is the product of the NOAA Office of Coast Survey and Office of Response and Restoration’s ongoing side-scan sonar surveys, which began in September. Fri, 4 May 2007 13:52 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2007/04-07.htm Spring Fish Pond Management — After several late season cold fronts, it looks like spring has finally arrived and will likely quickly transition into summer. This was confirmed over the last two weeks by the rash of calls to the local AgCenter office concerning fish pond management. The large majority of these calls are requesting recommendations for controlling filamentous algae, also commonly known as pond scum. Fri, 4 May 2007 09:51 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/skimmernets2.htm The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission ratified a final rule amending provisions to the Special Bait Dealer Permit rule at their May 3, 2007 meeting. The new rule allows permitted bait dealers to use two skimmer nets having an individual net frame size not more than twelve and one-half feet measured horizontally or 12 feet measured vertically or 17 feet four inches measured diagonally. Fri, 4 May 2007 09:38 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/nolicense.htm The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission officially proclaimed June 9 and 10 "No License Required" fishing days for Louisiana citizens and visitors during May 3 meeting proceedings. The promotional fishing dates are provided for novices and non-anglers as an opportunity to experience the sport of fishing. Fri, 4 May 2007 09:35 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/springshrimp.htm The opening dates of the 2007 Louisiana spring shrimp season were announced at the May 3 meeting of the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission. The declaration of emergency which established the season opening dates followed a presentation of the latest biological and hydrological data compiled by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Marine Fisheries Division and public comment from shrimpers, members of the shrimp industry and other concerned citizens. Fri, 4 May 2007 09:32 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/fins/2007/05-07.htm New Fisheries Legislation Proposed — Although this is a fiscal session, state legislators may each propose up to five non-fiscal bills and a number of bills that affect fisheries have already been introduced before the Natural Resources Committees. These are briefly described here, or visit www.legis.state.la.us for more information. Contact your legislators to weigh in on these issues. Wed, 2 May 2007 09:58 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/violations.htm Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Enforcement Division agents cited three men on April 25 for alleged oyster violations near the Deer Bay area in Terrebonne Parish. Wed, 2 May 2007 09:50 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/fishtags.htm Researchers from Louisiana State University (LSU) are teaming up with the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) for a study on the movement patterns of spotted seatrout in Calcasieu Lake. The two-year study will begin May 2007 and roughly 120 adult spotted seatrout will be outfitted with acoustic transmitters or “pingers.” Tue, 1 May 2007 09:24 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/oysterseason.htm Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Secretary Bryant O. Hammett Jr. announced a 15-day oyster season in the Little Lake Public Oyster Seed Grounds and selected areas of the Vermilion/East and West Cote Blanche/Atchafalaya Bay Public Oyster Seed Grounds located east of South Point of Marsh Island and south of the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals' (DHH) May-August 2007 seasonal reclassification line that generally runs from South Point of Marsh Island ENE to Point Chevreuil. The short season in these areas will open at one-half hour before sunrise on Friday, May 4, 2007 and will close at one-half hour after sunset on Friday, May 18, 2007. Mon, 30 Apr 2007 14:36 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/tilefishes.htm The commercial fishery for tilefishes in Louisiana waters will close at 12:01 a.m. on April 18, 2007, and will remain closed until the opening of the spring commercial tilefish season on Jan. 1, 2008. The tilefish assemblage includes tilefish, goldface tilefish, blackline tilefish, anchor tilefish and blueline tilefish. Wed, 18 Apr 2007 11:35 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/bourg.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Licensing Section is reminding commercial fishermen that department representatives will again set up temporary shop in the Bourg office for the sale of commercial fishing licenses to the public. Tue, 17 Apr 2007 15:28 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/shrimpseason.htm Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Secretary Bryant O. Hammett, Jr. announced that the shrimp season in that portion of Louisiana offshore territorial waters south of the Inside/Outside Shrimp Line as described in R.S.56:495, from the eastern shore of the Atchafalaya River Ship Channel at Eugene Island as delineated by the Channel red buoy line to the U.S. Coast Guard navigational light off the northwest shore of Caillou Boca at 29 degrees 03 minutes 10 seconds north latitude and 90 degrees 50 minutes 27 seconds west longitude, will reopen to shrimping on April 17, 2007 at 6 a.m. Tue, 10 Apr 2007 14:15 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/redsnapper.htm A declaration of emergency setting the 2007 recreational fishing season dates and creel limits for red snapper, and setting the 2007 commercial minimum size limit for red snapper, was issued by Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission at the April 5 meeting, as recommended by the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. Mon, 9 Apr 2007 10:31 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/fins/2007/04-07.htm Gulf Red Snapper and Shrimp Laws Changing Again — Gulf Red Snapper and Shrimp Laws Changing Again — Red snapper regulations in the Gulf are changing so fast that fishermen are having trouble staying current. New commercial rules started April 2, and new recreational laws will go into effect on May 2. Then, in about a year, they will probably all change again. Fishermen ask: How did this mess happen? Mon, 2 Apr 2007 13:09 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2007.htm Interim Measures Finalized for Gulf Red Snapper and Shrimp; Know Your Tunas - The Smaller Tunas: Little Tunny, Skipjack and Blackfin; Seafood Substitution Widespread, Creates New Industry: Fish DNA Testing; Shrimp Tariff News; Gulf Reef Fishery VMS Requirements Delayed; Underwater Obstruction Locations; The Gumbo Pot – Crab Au Gratin Fri, 30 Mar 2007 13:32 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/oysterclose.htm LDWF Secretary Bryant O. Hammett, Jr. announced that the 2006/07 oyster season in the Primary Public Oyster Seed Grounds east of the Mississippi River, the Lake Borgne Public Oyster Seed Grounds, the Bay Gardene Public Oyster Seed Reservation, the Hackberry Bay Public Oyster Seed Reservation, the Little Lake Public Oyster Seed Grounds, and the Vermilion/East and West Cote Blanche/Atchafalaya Bay Public Oyster Seed Grounds will close at one-half hour after sunset on Sunday, April 1, 2007. The Calcasieu Lake Public Oyster Area shall close at one-half hour after sunset on Monday, April 30, 2007. Thu, 29 Mar 2007 09:03 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2007/03-07.htm Water Quality in Louisiana — Water quality issues are coming to bear on every aspect of societal land use. Thirty-plus years after passage of the Clean Water Act, we are still faced with degraded water quality. Wed, 28 Mar 2007 13:56 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/groupaward.htm Three Louisiana Sea Grant (LSG) Marine Extension/LSU AgCenter agents are the recipients of the 2006 Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean Sea Grant Extension Network’s Outstanding Group Achievement Award for their response and continuing recovery work following Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. One of the three also is the recipient of the 2006 Conservation Educator of the Year Award in the 43rd Annual Governor’s Conversation Achievement Recognition Program, conducted by the Louisiana Wildlife Federation. Thu, 22 Mar 2007 14:38 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/cheniereproject.htm Cheniere Creole Trail Pipeline, L.P., a wholly owned subsidiary of Cheniere Energy, Inc., announced today the successful completion of a $1 million environmental stewardship project to enhance the American oyster fishery in Calcasieu Lake. Fri, 16 Mar 2007 15:01 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/bourg.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Licensing Section is reminding commercial fishermen that department representatives will again set up temporary shop in the Bourg office for the sale of commercial fishing licenses to the public. Thu, 15 Mar 2007 12:57 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/oysterlease.htm The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission today approved a Notice of Intent that would allow the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries to process pending oyster lease applications. Fri, 2 Mar 2007 10:17 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2007.htm Your Opinion Matters; Fisheries of the Atchafalaya: 1897; Eat More Seafood: Part IV – More Seafood in Mom's Diet Means Smarter Babies; Youth Outdoor Journalism Contest; Kemp's Ridley Turtle Conservation; Shrimp Vessel Moratorium Permits Required Beginning March 26, 2007; Modern Day Sea Monsters; The Gumbo Pot – Undercover BBQ Shrimp & Scallops; Thu, 1 Mar 2007 14:41 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2007/02-07.htm Shrimp Moratorium Permits Required March 26 — All shrimp vessel owners are reminded that a commercial shrimp vessel moratorium permit needs to be issued and aboard vessels fishing for or possessing shrimp in federal waters of the Gulf of Mexico beginning on March 26, 2007. A 10-year moratorium on the issuance of new federal shrimp vessel permits for the shrimp fishery of the Gulf of Mexico was established in October 2006. All currently active open access federal shrimp vessel permits will no longer be valid as of March 26. Fri, 23 Feb 2007 14:28 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/rehabilitation.htm The Louisiana Oyster Task Force (LOTF) is reminding all Louisiana oyster leaseholders to apply for the Private Oyster Lease Rehabilitation (POLR) program with the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF). Thu, 15 Feb 2007 12:36 CST http://www.laseagrant.org/comm/2007/volunteers.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) is asking for volunteers to assist with the 2007 Derelict Crab Trap Removal Program. Volunteers and boats are needed to collect traps and assist with their disposal at the designated disposal sites. Wed, 14 Feb 2007 10:39 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/crabtrap.htm The dates and zones for the 4th Annual Derelict Crab Trap Removal Program have been set for 2007. The two crab trap closures and clean-ups will take place in portions of Barataria Bay and the Lake Pontchartrain estuaries. In Lake Pontchartrain, the program will run from Saturday, Feb. 24 through Sunday, March 4 overlapping the Barataria Bay program dates of Saturday, March 3 through Sunday, March 11. Wed, 7 Feb 2007 9:58 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/fins/2007/02-07.htm Swamp Fish: Black Water, Brown Water, Green Water — Anyone who has fished in Louisiana backwaters knows that there are “types” of water that look different and hold different fish populations. A project conducted in the Atchafalaya Basin by Louisiana State University researchers showed just how well these appearances correlate with water chemistry and the use of different habitats by different species of fish. Tue, 6 Feb 2007 15:55 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2007.htm New National Fisheries Law Passes; Swamp Fish: Black Water, Brown Water, Green Water; Family Profile: Gars; Shrimp Tariffs Struck Down; Plastic Pollution, Part II: The Great Pacific Garbage Patch; Loans and Grants Available for Hurricane-Impacted Fishing Businesses; Your Opinion Matters; Underwater Obstruction Locations; The Gumbo Pot – Crawfish Salad Wed, 31 Jan 2007 10:52 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2007/01-07.htm Crawfish Season Outlook — Keep the propane tank filled, and stock up on corn, potatoes and seasonings. After a dismal crawfish season in 2006, things are looking much brighter for 2007. Good catches were reported as early as December and should continue as we warm up into spring. Tue, 30 Jan 2007 11:43 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/boating.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) is committed to making Louisiana boaters safe, knowledgeable and responsible. LDWF's Enforcement Division is currently offering a one-day Boating Education Instructor Certification Course to persons interested in becoming certified boating education instructors. Organizations or governmental agencies with public safety responsibilities can request courses for groups or staff members. Wed, 24 Jan 2007 13:45 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/whitelake.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) is now accepting applications to participate in a lottery drawing for fishing permit access to the White Lake Wetlands Conservation Area (WCA) between March 15 and Aug. 1, 2007. Wed, 17 Jan 2007 10:09 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/paddlefish.htm In action taken at the Jan. 4 meeting, the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission passed a notice of intent that would allow the incidental take and possession of paddlefish or as more commonly called spoonbill catfish. Fri, 5 Jan 2007 11:36 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/closure.htm The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission announced a shrimping closure in a portion of Louisiana offshore territorial (outside) waters at its Jan. 4, 2007 meeting. The action protects small white shrimp currently over-wintering in these areas as well as additional over-wintering white shrimp anticipated to recruit to these waters. Fri, 5 Jan 2007 11:34 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/skimmernets.htm The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission, in action taken at their Jan. 4 meeting, adopted a notice of intent to amend the Special Bait Dealer Permit rule to allow for the use of certain skimmer nets. The commission intends to allow permitted bait dealers to use two skimmer nets having an individual net frame size not more than 12 1/2 feet measured horizontally or 12 feet measured vertically or 17 1/3 feet measured diagonally. Fri, 5 Jan 2007 11:32 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/reeffishes.htm At its Jan. 4, 2007 meeting, the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission issued a Notice of Intent to modify several parts of the rules for harvest of reef fish including daily take, possession, and size limits. Fri, 5 Jan 2007 11:30 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/kingmackerel.htm A declaration of emergency setting the 2007 commercial fishing season for king mackerel was issued by the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission at their Jan. 4, 2007 meeting. The commercial fishing season for king mackerel in Louisiana state waters will open at 12:01 a.m. on July 1, 2007, and will remain open until the 2007 commercial quota for the western Gulf of Mexico is harvested or projected to be harvested. Fri, 5 Jan 2007 11:27 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2007/reeffishes2.htm A declaration of emergency, setting the 2007 commercial fishing seasons for reef fish and setting trip limits for grouper, was issued by Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission at their Jan. 4 2007 meeting, as recommended by the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. Fri, 5 Jan 2007 11:25 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2007.htm Good News About Seafood in the Diet; NOAA Fisheries Seeks Comments on Red Snapper; Red Snapper Fishery Nears Privatization; New Shrimping Regulations Begin in March; Plastic Pollution in the Ocean; Pompano Treasure; The Gumbo Pot – Cream of Shrimp Stew Wed, 3 Jan 2007 14:26 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2006/deadline.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries would like to remind shrimpers that the final application deadline for new federal shrimp moratorium permits is Oct. 26, 2007. However, federal regulations require these new permits be onboard vessels fishing for Gulf of Mexico shrimp in federal waters beginning on March 26, 2007. Wed, 20 Dec 2006 9:52 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2006/shrimpregs.htm Beginning March 26, 2007, vessels fishing for shrimp in federal waters of the Gulf of Mexico must have a new GOM Moratorium Shrimp Permit onboard. Additionally, vessels fishing for royal red shrimp must also have a Royal Red Endorsement. Mon, 18 Dec 2006 11:55 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2006/shrimpclosure.htm Shrimpers are reminded that the fall inshore shrimp season in all Louisiana shrimp management zones will close at official sunset on Tuesday, Dec.19, 2006, except in the open waters of Breton and Chandeleur Sounds as described by the double-rig line (LA R.S.56:495.1.(A)2), which shall remain open to shrimping until 6 a.m. March 31, 2007. The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission established these closing dates at its August 3 meeting. Fri, 8 Dec 2006 11:38 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2006/redsnapper2.htm The fall commercial fishing season for red snapper in Louisiana state waters will be extended through noon Dec. 26, 2006, unless Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Secretary Bryant Hammett is informed by the regional administrator of the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) that the season date in federal waters has been modified. Fri, 8 Dec 2006 11:35 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2006/jumpstart.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Inland Fisheries Division is restocking lagoons at City Park in New Orleans and LaFreniere Park in Jefferson Parish today as part of the department's Operation Jumpstart program. Fri, 8 Dec 2006 11:32 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2006/alligator.htm The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission approved two separate notices of intent concerning alligator regulations at their Dec. 7 meeting. Fri, 8 Dec 2006 9:02 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2006/bourg.htm The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Licensing Section is reminding commercial fishermen that department representatives will again set up temporary shop in the Bourg office for the sale of commercial fishing licenses to the public. Tue, 5 Dec 2006 15:40 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/fins/2006/12-06.htm Omega-3 fatty acids are also known as essential fatty acids or polysunsaturated fatty acids. These are essential to human health and must be obtained from food, particularly fish and certain plant oils. Fatty acids are critical components of cell chemistry, allowing proper function of cell membranes. Fish contains two important omega 3 polyunsaturated fats, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexanoic acid (DHA). The body also converts some EPA and DHA from other sources: flaxseeds, pumpkin seeds, walnuts, soybeans and some dark green leafy vegetables. Tue, 5 Dec 2006 15:29 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2006/12-06.htm On Jan. 1, 2007, after nearly two decades of stock assessments, a license moratorium, fishery management plans with multiple amendments, seasonal closures and much socio-economic distress, the Gulf of Mexico red snapper commercial fishery will reach its final stage – privatization. By definition, privatization is the transfer to private ownership of an economic enterprise or public resource that has been under government ownership. Many changes will become effective in January, which will make the fishery more economically stable and will offer some security to shareholders. Mon, 4 Dec 2006 13:47 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/lagniappe/2006.htm The End of Seafood?; Using Invasive Asian Carp for Bait; New Seasonal Closure for Some Recreational Grouper Fishing; Winter Red Snapper Commercial Fishery to Open; The Shocking Truth About Stargazers; Hypoxia & Shrimp; Spot & Croaker; Underwater Obstructions; The Gumbo Pot – Crawfish Etouffee Fri, 1 Dec 2006 12:48 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/resources/chenier/2006/11-06.htm Red Snapper Saga Continues — The Gulf of Mexico and South Atlantic red snapper management chronicle continues to twist and turn, becoming ever more complicated by regulatory changes and lawsuits filed to force government to impose management policies. Wed, 15 Nov 2006 14:23 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2006/vms.htm Gulf of Mexico commercial reef fishermen may apply for reimbursement of the purchase price of a Vessel Monitoring System (VMS). NOAA Fisheries Service is dispersing funds to vessel owners and/or operators who purchased a VMS in compliance with Gulf of Mexico Reef Fish Fishery regulations. Reimbursements will be made for the purchase price of the least expensive VMS approved for the Reef Fish Fishery ($3,095). Wed, 8 Nov 2006 15:23 CST http://www.seagrantfish.lsu.edu/news/2006/dock.htm In response to a request from the Louisiana Fishing Community Recovery Coalition, the Louisiana Recovery Authority (LRA) proposed an allocation of $20 million for Back to the Dock. The dock program is similar to LRA's ‘Road Home’ program and helps underinsured and uninsured fisherman get ‘Back to the Dock.’ This much needed assistance should help Louisiana's proud fishing families pick up the pieces and get back to work. Wed, 8 Nov 2006 15:23 CST