DMR seeks modest general fund raise, explains spike in special‑fund authority for prior‑year projects and oyster programs
The Department of Marine Resources told the committee it projects increasing oyster harvests, maintains 173 positions mostly funded by federal and special funds, and is requesting an $186,186 general fund increment (with $370,000 total progression authority across funds) plus authority to spend prior‑year Tidelands funds (~$5M deficit authority this year, proposal up to $6M next year).
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The Department of Marine Resources (DMR) told the Appropriations Committee the agency expects a significantly stronger oyster season after rebuilding efforts, reporting about 30,000 sacks harvested so far (up from 8,000 last year) and projecting 80,000–100,000 sacks for the season. The department noted ongoing reef building and reef restoration projects tied to federal and special funding.
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