Watch CBS News

O'Malley To Make Announcement On Chesapeake Crabs

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) -- Maryland's governor has scheduled an announcement next week on the Chesapeake Bay's crab fishery.

Details on Tuesday's announcement by Gov. Martin O'Malley were not released, but those who follow the fishery are awaiting the results of the annual winter dredge survey.

The survey conducted by Maryland and Virginia is the most comprehensive look at the bay's crab population. Findings are used to guide management of crabs in the bay.

Last year's survey found the population rebounded following strict harvest limits, but was still below the long-term average. The restrictions were put in place after previous surveys found a sharp drop in crab numbers. Virginia and Maryland cut the crab harvest by a third beginning in 2008. They also shortened the season and banned the dredging of hibernating pregnant females.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.