The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council is soliciting applications for seats currently available on its advisory panels. Working at the grass roots level, advisory panel members provide information and guidance in the development and implementation of federal fishery management plans. Advisory panels are composed of individuals who are engaged in the harvest of, or are knowledgeable and interested in the conservation and management of the fishery or group of fishes to be managed. Members include recreational and commercial fishermen, seafood dealers and processors, conservationists, scientists, and concerned citizens. Advisory panel members serve for two years and can reapply for their positions.

AP members generally meet no more than once or twice each year and are compensated for travel and per diem expenses for all meetings. Applications are now being solicited for the following Advisory Panels: Ad Hoc Aquaculture; Ad Hoc Data Collection; Ad Hoc Mackerel LAPP; Ad Hoc Reef Fish LAPP; Coastal Migratory Pelagics; Coral; Ad Hoc Grouper IFQ; Florida/Alabama Habitat Protection; Mississippi/ Louisiana Habitat Protection; Texas Habitat Protection; Law Enforcement; Outreach & Education; Red Drum; Ad Hoc Review Panel for Red Drum; Red Snapper; Reef Fish; SEDAR NGO; Shrimp; Spiny Lobster; Stone Crab; VMS.

Anyone interested in serving on any of these panels should submit a letter and resume to:
Phyllis Miranda

Gulf of Mexico Fishery
Management Council
2203 N. Lois Ave.
Suite 1100
Tampa, FL 33607

Materials may also be faxed to: 813-348-1711; or e-mailed to phyllis.miranda@gulfcouncil.org.

Resumes and letters should be received no later than close of business April 5, 2011.