b"to be adjusted quickly in response tofishery that is currently closed environmental monitoring, ensuringdue to the utter devastation of that scallop stocks are rebuilt andscallop numbers.Earlier in 2017, maintained at abundant levels. the fisheries Minister at the time Revenue raised from these permitsclosed the Marlborough Sounds would be used to repay the costscallop fishery and in 2022, the to the government of acquiringNorthland scallop fishery followed the quota and fund ongoingsuit. Neither has reopened.research, monitoring, and targetedIf the draft Coromandel scallop fisheries management to keepplan is adopted and provides for Coromandel scallops thriving. abundance and sustainable harvest, The Plan also facilitates a transitionit could set precedent for how into scallop aquaculture, paving theother collapsed fisheries could way for new investment and year- be managed in the future.The round supply, supporting regionaldraft scallop restoration plan is economies by creating new jobsa golden opportunity to rebuild in diving, aquaculture, and supplyan iconic fishery on principles of chains. Ensuring the Coromandelsustainability, equity, and innovation. community benefits directly from theTogether we can make scallops harvest of scallops from local waters. a symbol of whats possible for New Zealand's coastal fisheries.PATHWAY FORWARD Who knows, maybe one day We acknowledge that theSeptember 1st could mark a Coromandel isnt the only scallopcelebration of restored abundance.Scallops were once abundant in many shallow harbours and easily harvested by recreational fishers. Photo credit - Alex StammersSCAN THE QR CODETo subscribe to receive LegaSea newsletters and keep up to date on the draft scallop plan.Experts suggest it could take several years until Coromandel scallop populations have rebuilt to a level that will restore their role in the ecosystem, while providing for all harvest and future generations needs. /FISHINGINGODZONE43"