Virginia Code Title 28.2. Fisheries and Habitat of the Tidal Waters § 28.2-203.1. Blue crab fishery management plan

A. The Commission shall prepare, in consultation with the Virginia Institute of Marine Science, other educational institutions and representatives of industry and interested parties, and then implement a blue crab fishery management plan.  The plan shall build upon previously developed plans, including consideration of plans adopted by the multi-state Chesapeake Bay Program, and shall be consistent with the standards for fishery conservation and management set out in § 28.2-203.  The plan shall be designed to reverse any fishing practices, environmental stress and habitat deterioration negatively impacting the short and long term viability and sustainability of the crab stock in Virginia waters.  The Commission shall consider the economic impact to Virginia of proposed legislative and regulatory changes.  The protection of spawning stock, nursery areas and habitat shall be of prime consideration in the plan.  At a minimum the plan shall include, but not be limited to:

B. The Commission shall, on or before December 1 of each year, report to the Governor and the General Assembly on the progress and implementation of the blue crab fisheries management plan.