A proposal for the development of the New Jersey fisheries industry

The approval of the Fishery Conservation and Management Act of 1976 (FCMA), establishing preferential fishing rights for American fishermen within 200 miles of the nation's coast, presents an opportunity for new development and potential expansion of the commercial fisheries industry in New Jersey. The state government should participate with local governments and the private sector in assisting the state's fishing interests to realize the possible benefits of this legislation. In order to reverse the past economic decline of the New Jersey fishing industry, the state must take steps to assist in the development of new pier and processing facilities and other support services necessary for the modernization of the state's fishing industry. The state should encourage private investment in such facilities through financing from the Economic Development Authority, and should continue to review the feasiblity of government development of on-shore facilities which may be necessary to assist the private sector