The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council, during its August meeting in New Orleans, Louisiana, elected a new Chair and Vice Chair for the 2012-2013 Council year.
Doug Boyd of Texas, who was appointed to the Council in 2010, was elected Chair. Kevin Anson was elected Vice-Chair.
“I am honored to be elected to a leadership role with the Gulf Council. This next year presents many challenges for the Council. We must continue working to end overfishing, rebuild and enhance fish stocks, streamline the public’s access to safe, quality, affordable Gulf Seafood, secure and enhance vital fish habitat, and further recreational fishing opportunities. The Gulf of Mexico is a diverse ecosystem that provides great socioeconomic benefit to not only the Gulf Coast, but to the entire Nation, and it should be managed for the benefit of all,” said Boyd.
Kevin Anson was elected Vice-Chair. Anson is with the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Marine Resources Division and is the designee for Chris Blankenship, the Department’s Director.
“I look forward to serving on the Council as Vice-Chair, and I am excited to assist the Council throughout its process of developing management strategies to restore fish stocks,” said Anson.