South Atlantic Fishery Management Council

(POSTPONED) Lines of Communication Initiative Heads to North Carolina This February

Due to forecasted winter weather and for the safety of all participants, the upcoming Lines of Communication meetings in North Carolina have been officially postponed. We sincerely thank everyone who took the time to RSVP and planned to attend these sessions. The Council appreciates your interest and engagement and looks forward to continuing these conversations soon. Updated dates and locations will be shared as they are confirmed and will be posted on the Council’s website and social media platforms. Please stay tuned for further updates: Lines Homepage


Members of the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council continue their Lines of Communication: Conversations with the Council initiative with a series of meetings planned along the coast of North Carolina in early February 2026. The meetings provide fishermen and other stakeholders with an opportunity to share concerns and perspectives directly with Council members in an informal, conversational setting.

Lines of Communication meetings are not public hearings. They are designed to open a two-way dialogue and facilitate mutual learning between local stakeholders and Council representatives. During each session, attendees can talk about issues important to their fishery, ask questions, and learn more about the fisheries management process. Council members and staff will be available throughout the evening to engage with participants.

“Lines of Communication meetings provide a chance for local fishermen and other constituents to bring forward what they are experiencing on the water and for Council members to share information on current management efforts and initiatives,” said Trish Murphey, Council Chair. “These conversations help strengthen relationships and increase understanding of how management decisions are made.”

The North Carolina Lines of Communication meetings will be held from 6 – 8 p.m. at the following locations:

Participation in the meetings is open to anyone interested in federal fisheries management — no formal registration is required. However, RSVPs are encouraged to assist with planning.

Lines of Communication is an ongoing initiative that will continue across the South Atlantic, with meetings planned in South Carolina and Florida following the North Carolina sessions. For more information and updates, check out the webpage:

Questions? Contact Christina Wiegand, Council Staff, at christina.wiegand@safmc.net.