Emerging fisheries - new and growing fisheries that are not currently subject to specific regulation. Those fisheries for which the Fish and Game Commission held some management authority before January 1, 1999. Those commercial fisheries for which there is no statutory delegation of authority to the Commission and Department. Goals The MLMA sets out several underlying goals. It is not simply exploited populations of marine life that are to be conserved, but the species and habitats that make up the ecosystem of which they are a part.
Depressed fisheries are to be rebuilt within a specified time.
The bycatch of marine living resources in fisheries is to be limited to acceptable types and amounts. Tools To meet these standards, the MLMA calls for using several basic tools. Management is to be based on the best available scientific information as well as other relevant information. Lack of information should not greatly delay taking action. To help ensure the scientific soundness of decisions, key documents should be reviewed by experts.