Title of Regulation: 4VAC20-1140. Prohibition of Crab Dredging in Virginia Waters (amending 4VAC20-1140-20).

Statutory Authority: § 28.2-201 of the Code of Virginia.

Effective Date: June 1, 2009.

Agency Contact: Jane Warren, Agency Regulatory Coordinator, Marine Resources Commission, 2600 Washington Avenue, 3rd Floor, Newport News, VA 23607, telephone (757) 247-2248, FAX (757) 247-2002, or email betty.warren@mrc.virginia.gov.

Summary:

The amendments prohibit crab dredging in Virginia's waters from December 1, 2009, through March 31, 2010.

4VAC20-1140-20. Crab dredging prohibited.

A. The season to use a dredge for catching crabs is closed In accordance with the provisions of § 28.2-707 of the Code of Virginia, the crab dredging season of December 1, 2009, through March 31, 2010, is closed, and it shall be unlawful to use a dredge for catching crabs from the waters of the Commonwealth during that season.

B. It shall be unlawful for any person to use a dredge for catching crabs from the waters of the Commonwealth.

C. B. The following regulations that pertain to the crab dredge fishery or activities associated with crab dredging are repealed:

4VAC20-40, "Pertaining to Crab Catch Limits"

4VAC20-90, "Pertaining to Dredging for Crabs"

4VAC20-270-30 C, Daily Time Limits, "Pertaining to Crabbing"

4VAC20-750, "Pertaining to Crab Dredge Sales"

4VAC20-752-30 A, Harvest Restrictions. "Pertaining to Blue Crab Sanctuaries"

4VAC20-1090-30 1, Commercial Licenses: Blue Crab Harvesting and Shedding Licenses--For each boat used for taking or catching hard crabs with dredges. "Pertaining to Licensing Requirements and License Fees"