Monday, February 16, 2026

Trump opens up commercial fishing in Atlantic marine national monument

President Trump has once again made a bold move in the world of environmental policy. On Friday afternoon, he issued a proclamation that will allow for commercial fishing in the Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument. This monument, which covers a vast area of nearly 5,000 square miles southeast of Cape Cod, Mass, has been a topic of controversy since its creation in 2016. With this new proclamation, President Trump is showing his commitment to balancing the needs of both the environment and the economy.

The Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument was established by former President Obama in 2016 under the Antiquities Act. This act allows the president to designate areas of federal land or water as national monuments in order to protect them from development or exploitation. However, the creation of this monument was met with strong opposition from the fishing industry, as it banned all commercial fishing in the area.

This ban on commercial fishing has had a significant impact on the local fishing communities, who have relied on these waters for generations. It has also caused a decline in the availability of certain types of seafood, leading to higher prices for consumers. President Trump’s decision to open up the monument to commercial fishing is a welcome relief for these communities and the fishing industry as a whole.

But this decision is not just about economics. It also shows President Trump’s commitment to responsible and sustainable fishing practices. The proclamation includes strict regulations and guidelines for fishing in the monument, ensuring that the marine ecosystem is not harmed. This includes a ban on bottom trawling, a fishing method that can cause significant damage to the ocean floor and marine life. This move by President Trump is a testament to his dedication to protecting our oceans and marine life while also supporting the livelihoods of those who depend on them.

The Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument is home to a diverse range of marine species, including dolphins, whales, and various types of fish. With the new proclamation, commercial fishing will be allowed in a sustainable and responsible manner, ensuring that these species are not harmed. This is a win-win situation for both the environment and the fishing industry.

President Trump’s decision has been met with praise from many in the fishing industry. Bob Vanasse, executive director of Saving Seafood, a group that represents the commercial fishing industry, stated, “We are grateful to President Trump for recognizing the importance of sustainable fishing and the need to balance conservation with the economic needs of our coastal communities.” This sentiment is shared by many who have been impacted by the ban on commercial fishing in the monument.

In addition to supporting the fishing industry, this decision also aligns with President Trump’s America First policy. By allowing commercial fishing in the Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument, the United States will be able to reduce its reliance on imported seafood and support domestic fishing businesses. This will not only benefit the economy but also promote food security for the nation.

President Trump’s decision to open up the Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument to commercial fishing is a step in the right direction. It shows his commitment to finding a balance between protecting our environment and supporting our economy. This move will not only benefit the fishing industry and local communities but also promote responsible and sustainable fishing practices. It is a win for everyone involved and a testament to President Trump’s dedication to making America great again.

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