Saltwater Fishing & Boating Newsletter

In This Issue:

• Report Mitten Crab Sightings in Hudson River and Long Island Sound
• New York's Third Offshore Wind Solicitation 
• DEC to Host Third Annual Women's Fishing Expo
• Upcoming Meetings

Report Mitten Crabs in the Hudson River and Long Island Sound

Mitten crabs (Eriocheir sinensis), native to eastern Asia, have been introduced to the east coast of the U.S., including in the Hudson River Estuary in New York. Non-native species can cause severe ecological and economic damage once they establish large breeding populations. Early detection and rapid response efforts are necessary to mitigate potential negative impacts. DEC needs your help to be on the lookout and report sightings to isinfo@dec.ny.gov with the date, location, and photograph, if possible. 

You can also report observations of non-native species to iMapInvasives using either the free mobile app or online using your computer or mobile device: https://www.nyimapinvasives.org/

Mitten crabs are catadromous, which means they reproduce in estuarine and marine environments but return to freshwater environments to complete the remainder of their life cycle. Adult mitten crabs migrate downstream in late summer and fall to more salty marine environments to spawn. Juveniles with carapace widths >1 inch and adults can be identified by their claws, which are white-tipped and have dense patches of hair.

If caught, mitten crabs should not be returned to the water. For more information on mitten crabs, visit DEC's website. 

Photo submitted by iMapInvasives user record 1037113.

New York's Third Offshore Wind Solicitation 

Governor Hochul recently announced the release of New York State’s third offshore wind solicitation administered by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), includes the first phase of the nation-leading $500 million investment in offshore wind ports, manufacturing, and supply chain infrastructure. Responses to the RFP are due December 22nd with contracts to be awarded in the beginning of 2023. Projects will be analyzed based on price, economic benefits, and project viability.

New York is looking to secure a minimum of 2,000 megawatts (MW), with the potential to secure more energy if offered. New York State currently has procured 4,300 MW out of its goal to have 9,000 MW by 2035.

Please check NYSERDA's webpage for updates. If you wish to join the NYSERDA Offshore Wind Team email list to be notified of the RFP release and other NYSERDA Offshore Wind announcements, please fill out and submit the subscription form.

DEC to Host Third Annual Women's Fishing Expo

DEC and Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation will hold the third annual Women's Fishing Expo at Connetquot River State Park Preserve on Saturday, Sept. 17, 2022, from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

The Women's Fishing Expo will provide hands-on instruction and experiential learning in a fun and supportive environment. Everyone is welcome to attend, although the event is focused on introducing women to fishing. This event will be run primarily by female anglers and fisheries professionals. There will also be women-owned businesses and fishing clubs present for networking opportunities. 

Participants will be able to learn about fishing opportunities on Long Island and statewide, fishing basics and intermediate fishing skills, basic knots, fly-tying demonstrations, fly-casting instruction, fisheries management information, a trout hatchery tour, marine fishing information, and free fly-fishing on the renowned Connetquot River. Fly-casting and fly-fishing are limited to those aged 14 and older.

This is a rain or shine event. Seats are limited, and pre-registration is required. For more information, or to register, call the DEC's I FISH NY Program at (631) 444-0283, or email fwfish1@dec.ny.gov with the subject title 'Women's Fishing Expo.' A vehicle use fee of $8 will be in effect. Parking is free for Empire Passport holders. The 2021 Empire Passport can be purchased for $80 at state park offices, or online at the New York State Parks website.

Upcoming Meetings

Marine Resources Advisory Council Meeting
Date: Tuesday, September 13, 2022, 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Location: DEC Division of Marine Resources, 123 Kings Park Blvd, Kings Park

A link to listen to the meeting is available on DEC's website. Attendees joining the meeting online or by phone are limited to listening only. Once available, a complete agenda for the meeting can be found on Marine Resources Advisory Council's website. 

ASMFC Atlantic Menhaden Draft Addendum I Public Hearing
Date: Thursday, September 15, 2022, 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Location: DEC Division of Marine Resources, 123 Kings Park Blvd, Kings Park

The Atlantic Menhaden Draft Addendum (PDF) is available online. All those interested in the management of Atlantic menhaden are encouraged to provide input either by participating in public hearings, which may be conducted via webinar, or by providing a written comment. Public comment will be accepted until 11:59 PM (EST) on September 30 and should be sent to James Boyle, FMP Coordinator, at 1050 N. Highland St., Suite 200 A-N, Arlington, Virginia 22201 or at comments@asmfc.org (Subject line: Atlantic Menhaden Draft Addendum I).

A link to listen to the meeting is available on DEC's website. Attendees joining the meeting online or by phone are limited to listening only.