The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) is inviting members of the Alabama shrimping industry and the public to weigh in on a new shrimp fishery management plan. The agency’s Marine Resources Division will host two listening sessions in November to collect input from stakeholders before the plan is finalized.

“The Alabama shrimp fishery is undergoing an external certification process to demonstrate the resource is managed sustainably,” said Chris Blankenship, ADCNR Commissioner.

“The new shrimp fishery management plan is a requirement for that certification. It is important that we receive input from participants in Alabama’s shrimping industry. If adopted, the new plan will be used by ADCNR to manage the state’s shrimp fishery.”

MRD staff will present proposed goals and objectives during each listening session. Attendees will have the opportunity to share feedback, offer additional ideas, and participate in multiple public comment periods aimed at shaping the final plan.

The first session will take place Wednesday, Nov. 12, at the Bayou La Batre Community Center, 12745 Padgett Switch Rd., Bayou La Batre, from 12 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

A second session is set for Thursday, Nov. 13, at the Gulf Shores Activity Center, 260 Clubhouse Dr., Gulf Shores, from 12 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Anyone needing Americans with Disabilities Act accommodations or additional details about the listening sessions can contact John Mareska at john.mareska@dcnr.alabama.gov or (251) 968-9737. Requests should be submitted at least two days before the meeting.

ADCNR manages Alabama’s natural resources through its Marine Resources, State Lands, State Parks, and Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries divisions.