NC S410

Establishes a marine aquaculture leasing program allowing the Secretary to grant leases of up to 100 acres (maximum 1,500 acres per person) for propagation and rearing of marine species in coastal waters and federal waters off North Carolina.

Leased areas must avoid natural shellfish beds, designated shellfish management areas, pollution-closed areas, active navigation channels, and traditional fishing grounds; operations must not unreasonably interfere with navigation, riparian rights, or public access.

Sets lease terms at 20 years with annual rental of $210 per acre, with public hearing requirements and contested case appeal rights available to applicants and affected parties.

Authorizes termination of leases for failure to pay rent, file required information, mark boundaries, maintain continuous operation, or report ownership transfers.

Requires the Division of Marine Fisheries to petition federal agencies to develop a Fishery Management Plan and regulatory program for offshore aquaculture in federal waters.

Mandates Marine Fisheries Commission members use official email accounts for work communications (treated as public records) and requires multi-member electronic communications to comply with open meetings law.

Exempts American eels imported from Virginia or South Carolina from aquaculture permitting requirements.