The Chesapeake Terrapin Alliance is a science-based working group composed of area organizations and individuals committed to preserving the health of the Chesapeake Bay's terrapin populations.

Our position: references

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On July 5 a group of key individuals gathered in meeting space graciously provided by the National Aquarium in Baltimore to discuss the terrapin harvest regulations proposed by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, Fisheries Division in preparation for the July 10 public meeting. At this time the DNR Fisheries Service presented the emergency and permanent terrapin fishery regulations that have since been adopted and went into effect by October 1, 2006 as required by HB980 – Natural Resources: Terrapin.

Over thirty individuals attended including one commercial fisherman and all presented valid points as to how the proposed regulations did little to truly protect or manage Maryland's terrapin populations.

Alliance members discussed what is found in the scientific literature on this species and considered the potential effects of the proposed regulations and developed recommendations presented at both at the July 10 public meeting and in a follow-up letter for the proposed permanent regulations' comment period.

We will pursue additional items generated by the evening’s discussions through email and future meetings. For more information please email us.

We encourage all concerned individuals and groups to contact Governor Ehrlich and their representatives and participate in future projects as we move forward to help preserve our terrapin populations in the Chesapeake Bay.