In 1995, the states determined that the original 1990 FMP was insufficient for conservation and restoration of Atlantic sturgeon stocks, and initiated development of Amendment 1. Reports should be based on the previous calendar year at a minimum. Status of the Stock Reported landings peaked in 1890 at 3.4 million kg and declined precipitously thereafter. Currently, populations of Atlantic sturgeon throughout the species' range are either extirpated or at historically low abundance.
Recruitment is variable at low levels in all regions.
Survival of Atlantic sturgeon during the 20th century implies that enough spawning and nursery habitats exist to perpetuate the species. In the absence of major threats to existing habitat, reduced fishing mortality is of greater importance to stock restoration efforts than habitat limitations. Currently, all states and the National Marine Fisheries Service have enacted bans on harvest and possession of Atlantic sturgeon and sturgeon parts. As per Amendment 1, these moratoria will remain in effect until stocks at least exhibit 20 protected yearclasses of spawning adults and the FMP is modified to permit harvest and possession. Amendment 1 does not require any research in participating jurisdictions.