DMR director: leases remain valid, grants moving forward and 195 derelict vessels removed
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Summary
DMR staff told the commission existing commercial leases in effect before recent legislation will remain valid; staff reported about $3.7 million in funding secured for 2023–24, small awards to fishers, and 225 derelict-vessel cases with 195 removals and 30 pending.
The commission heard a director’s update covering lease protections, grant funding and derelict-vessel removals.
The director said operators who held leases before recent legislation may continue to operate under their prior leases while staff develop updated lease terms. "We're not gonna shut you down," the director told the commission when asked about enforcement and continuity for existing leaseholders.
Staff described grant activity and distribution: the director reported that staff have secured roughly 93% of funds for 2023–24 and stated an amount "about $3,700,000." The director noted prior awards and several small direct awards to fishers: one stated award of $10,000 for a shrimper and $7,500 for others as part of earlier funding rounds.
On derelict-vessel work, staff reported 225 cases had been reported, of which 195 had been removed, 30 remained pending removal and two cases were in court. The director and commissioners praised marine-patrol work and stressed continued enforcement and community communication about cases.
The director also summarized coordination with regional bodies and said staff would report additional Gulf Council items at the February meeting.
Next steps: staff will continue processing grants and lease updates, proceed with derelict-vessel removals and report back at the next regularly scheduled meeting.