Washington, D.C. –  The following statement was issued by Meredith Moore, Director of the Fish Conservation Program at Ocean Conservancy, in response to Janet Coit being announced as the new assistant administrator for NOAA Fisheries:

“We’re happy to see Janet Coit announced as the new head of NOAA Fisheries. This is a critical role that leads our nation’s efforts to ensure that U.S. fisheries are sustainably managed, that important coastal habitats are conserved, and that marine mammals, seabirds, and other protected resources are restored. Indigenous people have stewarded the waters, ecosystems and fish since long before NOAA was formed or western systems of management emerged. Today, our fisheries continue to be critical to culture and food security for Indigenous communities, provide food for millions of people in the U.S. and billions worldwide, support recreational opportunities and are key components of healthy ecosystems. Ms. Coit has a record of listening to and working with diverse groups of people who depend on the ocean.

“As the new head of NOAA Fisheries, Ms. Coit has an opportunity to prioritize equity across the management and research roles of the agency. We urge her to implement a more inclusive culture and policies for the agency, including recognition of Tribal treaty rights and meaningful inclusion of Indigenous people, Tribes and Traditional Knowledge throughout the work of NOAA Fisheries.

“Our rapidly changing climate poses a major challenge to the sustainability of our marine resources and it’s essential that the new assistant administrator prioritize climate-ready fisheries management and conservation of important habitats. Ms. Coit has seen climate change’s effects first hand in her work in Rhode Island, and is the right person to lead the agency as it advances the administration’s commitment to climate mitigation, including balancing offshore wind and fisheries co-use. We’re excited to work with Ms. Coit on these most pressing issues and for her leadership at NOAA Fisheries.”

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Meredith Moore is available for interviews upon request.

Ocean Conservancy is working to protect the ocean from today’s greatest global challenges. Together with our partners, we create science-based solutions for a healthy ocean and the wildlife and communities that depend on it. For more information, visit http://www.oceanconservancy.org, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.