Resolve, Directing the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife To Conduct a Study To Enhance Maine's Recreational Fishing Economy

Sec. 1. Study of Maine's recreational fishing economy. Resolved: That the Commissioner of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, referred to in this resolve as "the commissioner," shall contract with outside experts to conduct a study of fishery management and marketing plans and programs in states that are major destinations for the nation's anglers and make recommendations that would expand Maine's recreational fishing economy; and be it further

Sec. 2. Procedures. Resolved: That a contract awarded pursuant to this resolve must be awarded in accordance with applicable state laws, rules and procedures relating to the purchase of services and awarding of contracts. The Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife shall establish a panel to assist in developing the scope of work under section 3 and evaluating and selecting a proposal. The panel must include appropriate department staff and up to 5 people representing statewide organizations with an interest in the management of fisheries and marketing of recreational fishing; and be it further

Sec. 3. Scope of work. Resolved: That the study under section 1 must include, but is not limited to, methods and programs other states used to:

1. Survey customer satisfaction;

2. Determine what anglers prefer with respect to fisheries;

3. Increase the sale of fishing licenses;

4. Establish accountability for fisheries programs and decisions;

5. Maximize the economic value of fish and fishing;

6. Expand angler opportunities and fisheries utilization; and

7. Market recreational fishing both in and out of state; and be it further

Sec. 4. Funding. Resolved: That the commissioner may accept grants and donations for the work required pursuant to this resolve and expend those funds as necessary to accomplish the purpose of this resolve. In the event that adequate funds are not secured, the commissioner may at the commissioner's discretion terminate this work; and be it further

Sec. 5. Report. Resolved: That the commissioner shall submit a report that includes any findings and recommendations to the Joint Standing Committee on Inland Fisheries and Wildlife no later than January 15, 2010.

summary

This resolve requires the Commissioner of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife to conduct a study of fishery management and marketing plans and programs in states that are major destinations for the nation's anglers and make recommendations that would expand Maine's recreational fishing economy.