Then what are the real stewardship issues relative to the 
fishery resources of Chesapeake Bay? First, let us discuss some 
of the more obvious manifestations of the fundamental problems. 
1. The declining abundances of important species . Are these 
conditions due to too much fishing or to environmental 
factors or both. Consider the following specifics: 
* American Shad - The abundance of American shad is at a 
historical low. Are there additional ways to assist in the re¬ 
covery of this species, in addition to the current moratorium in 
Maryland? 
* River Herrings - Commercial landings of the river her¬ 
ring have declined sharply in recent years. What is the current 
status of each of these species? 
* Striped Bass - Despite a great deal of research, there's 
still many questions centering on the factors that determine 
year-class success in this species. Are we asking the right 
questions? 
* Atlantic Menhaden - Catches appear to be stable. Are 
sufficient statistics being reported to be able to know with 
reasonable certainty? 
* Atlantic Croaker - Can any management steps be taken to 
assist in the recovery of this species? Or are we dependent on 
climate-scale factors for any future recovery? 
* Weakfish - This is one of the most important recreation¬ 
al species in the Chesapeake Bay. Do we need additional regula¬ 
tions to protect sea trout? 
* Spot - Although year-to-year variability appears to be 
high, spot landings have generally declined since the late 1940s 
or early 1950s. What do we know from existing information about 
the causes for this decline? 
* Oysters - This is the most valuable commercial fishery 
in the Chesapeake Bay and landings have declined almost contin¬ 
uously since the late 1950s. What do we know about the reasons 
for decline? 
* Blue Crabs - This species is the key component of the 
seafood industry in Chesapeake Bay during the summer months. 
Does the existing information on the biology and population dy¬ 
namics of the species support the current laws and regulations 
for blue crabs? 
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