AFFTA Supports Northeast Coral Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument

The American Fly Fishing Trade Association has released a statement of approval over the recent designation of the Northeast Coral Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument, which will protect 4,193 square miles of ocean environment.

Read more in the press release below.

AFFTA Supports Northeast Coral Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument

Preserving More Than 4,000 Square Miles of Ocean

BOZEMAN, Mont. – The American Fly Fishing Trade Association (AFFTA) applauds the recent designation of the Northeast Coral Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument, located in 150 miles southeast of Cape Cod, Massachusetts. The monument protects 4,193 square miles of pristine ocean environment from industrial development.

The new Northeast Coral Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument includes five vast underwater canyons and four seamounts — undersea mountains — that climb more than 7,000 feet from the ocean floor. These seamounts are nutrient-rich environments, home to a vast array of underwater life. Centuries-old cold-water coral dots the landscape, and a high concentration of plankton, squid, and other underwater nutrients draws in an array of undersea life.

To date, the area has been protected by natural features and partial fishing restrictions, and the National Monument designation ensures the valuable area will be permanently sheltered. While the Pacific Ocean had a rich history of environmental protection, the Atlantic is often ignored and this designation marks an important precedent.

AFFTA President Ben Bulis stated, “As sportsmen and business owners who value and depend on the protection of our natural resources, we applaud President Obama’s designation of the Northeast Coral Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument. In securing a healthy future for these waters, the President is also allowing them to remain open to recreational fishing activities. This means that we can keep our resources clean, unharmed, and accessible for recreational activities for generations to come.”

About AFFTA

AFFTA advocates for and promotes the sustained growth of the fly fishing industry. By igniting consumer demand for products and services, providing businesses the tools to be successful, and advocating for access, protection and restoration of fishing waters, we will continue to enhance the passion and profitability of the sport of fly fishing.

Contact: Jess McGlothlin, 512.520.7104, [email protected]