Congressman introduces Comerat Relief Act to aid Mississippi catfish farmers

During a recent legislative hearing held by the Water, Wildlife, and Fisheries Subcommittee of the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources, significant concerns were raised regarding the challenges faced by catfish farmers in Mississippi. The meeting highlighted the impact of regulatory burdens imposed by environmental policies, which many farmers argue threaten their livelihoods.

A key point of discussion was the detrimental effects of non-native species, particularly double-crested cormorants, which consume large quantities of fish and have been classified by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as generalist feeders. Farmers expressed frustration over the need to navigate complex permitting processes to protect their stock from these birds. The situation has been exacerbated by a recent court ruling that has led to an estimated annual loss of $64 million for the catfish industry in Mississippi.

To address these issues, a proposed piece of legislation, the Comerat Relief Act of 2025, aims to reinstate the aquaculture depredation order for double-crested cormorants. This order had previously been in place and was reinstated in the past during similar circumstances. Supporters of the bill, including Chris McGlone, president of the Catfish Farmers of Mississippi, argue that restoring this order is crucial for the survival of the local catfish farming community.

The discussions during the hearing underscored the ongoing tension between agricultural interests and environmental regulations. As farmers continue to advocate for relief from these burdens, the outcome of the proposed legislation could have significant implications for the future of catfish farming in the region. The committee's next steps will be closely watched by stakeholders in the agricultural sector, as they seek to balance environmental concerns with the economic realities faced by working-class Americans in the industry.