02-27-2007, 10:10 PM
NOAA has requested a budget of $3.9 billion for 2008, an increase of $131 million over 2007. Within this budget, $325 million has been allocated for Fisheries Research and Management Programs. An additional $3 million is proposed to implement the new Magnuson-Stevens Act requirements regarding Recreational Fishery Data Collection. ASA is seeking an increase in the funds proposed for NOAA's Community Restoration Program (CRP). Currently at $12.9 million, ASA would like to secure a final appropriation of $20 million. The CRP provides funds to the FishAmerica Foundation.