US Atlantic scallop harvest projected to rise 18% in 2017

Projected landings for the East Coast Atlantic scallop fishery are predicted to rise 18 percent over this year's harvest, according to a decision handed down Wednesday by the New England Fishery Management Council (NEFMC).

The NEFMC voted unanimously -- with one recusal -- on the new allocations for next Atlantic sea scallop fishing year after being presented various options by the scallop committee.

The council's recommendation will now head to the US Secretary of Commerce where it will likely be approved. The final rule is typically published in April or May.

Projected