CRISFIELD, Md. (AP) — Another sign that spring is here is the opening of Maryland’s crab season.

Friday is the first day of the season and watermen are waiting for the results of the annual winter dredge survey to see if harvest restrictions will be eased. Last year’s survey showed a rebound in the population that followed limits put in place the year before because of dropping crab numbers.

State officials say the limits could be changed depending on the results of the survey due to be released in April.

Whether or not they are changed, the season normally gets off to a slow start because crabs don’t become active until the water warms. Watermen are also facing higher fuel prices that are making it more expensive to go out on the bay.

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