HB361 Summary

• Creates the Shellfish Aquaculture Review Board as an administrative unit within the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources to develop policy and implement a sustainable oyster aquaculture leasing program for Alabama's coastal waters.

• Board composition includes commissioners from Conservation and Natural Resources, Agriculture and Industries, Environmental Management, and Public Health departments; one Alabama Cooperative Extension System member appointed by the Governor; and two members representing commercial seafood fishermen and industry associations appointed by the Governor.

• Board shall convene within 30 days of enactment to elect officers and adopt governing rules, and within 90 days shall recommend rules to the department for issuing leases for oyster cultivation and harvesting in an expeditious manner.

• Leasing program must protect wild fish stocks and oyster riparian rights, consider conflicts with navigation, recreation, and commercial fishing, and prohibit propagation of nonnative species.

• Department commissioner shall adopt licensing rules and establish lease fees through the State Lands Division in a manner that encourages economic viability of oyster aquaculture.