Maryland oyster season decline prompts federal disaster aid request

Maryland officials say this winter produced one of the state's worst oyster seasons, and Rep. Andy Harris has asked NOAA to review an economic fishery disaster declaration that could unlock federal relief.

Maryland officials are seeking federal help after what they describe as one of the state's worst oyster seasons, a downturn they say has left many boats idle and watermen under financial strain. Lawmakers and state officials say severe winter weather, weak market demand and growing out-of-state competition contributed to a sharply reduced harvest. U.S. Rep. Andy Harris asked the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to declare an economic fishery disaster under the Magnuson-Stevens Act. Officials say the state has limited options without federal assistance and is awaiting a federal review. Key facts: - Officials describe the recent oyster season as among Maryland's worst, with much of the winter harvest reduced or not taken. - Rep. Andy Harris requested that NOAA consider an economic fishery disaster declaration under the Magnuson-Stevens Act to allow emergency federal assistance. - Lawmakers cited prolonged freezing weather, weak demand during the usual holiday sales period, and increasing out-of-state supply as causes of the downturn. - The request is now with NOAA and the disaster review process is evaluated by the U.S. Department of Commerce; state officials say they are awaiting a decision. Summary: Officials worry the reduced harvest has economic effects for watermen and could slow oyster restoration work that helps shorelines and reproduction. The next procedural step reported is NOAA's review of the disaster request, which is evaluated through the Department of Commerce; the outcome is undetermined at this time.