SALEM, Ore., Dec. 14 (UPI) -- The Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission has voted to lower retention-size limits for commercial fisheries that harvest green sturgeon in coastal waters.
The commission voted to reduce the commercial size limit for green sturgeon from 5 feet, 6 inches to 5 feet -- a move that will protect most adult male and female sturgeons and ensure that the maximum number of fish reaching maturity continue to spawn.
Green sturgeon are capable of spawning numerous times throughout their lifespan, which may exceed 60 years.
"Relative to most other species of sturgeons, some populations of both green and white sturgeon are considered to be the healthiest populations in the world," said Dan Erickson, a researcher with the Wildlife Conservation Society. "By implementing precautionary management strategies in the face of uncertainty, we can ensure a future for these amazing fishes."
Capable of growing more than 7 feet long and weighing up to 350 pounds, the green sturgeon is listed as a Species of Concern under the U.S. Endangered Species Act, and the southern population of the species may soon be listed as threatened.
