Bill > H841

This bill requires the North Carolina Collaboratory, a research organization, to conduct a comprehensive study on shellfish aquaculture regulations, focusing on balancing economic development, environmental protection, and public access to coastal waters. The study will examine the effectiveness of current shellfish lease regulations and moratoriums, compare best practices from other states, assess economic impacts on coastal economies, analyze potential conflicts between shellfish farming and other coastal activities, evaluate environmental considerations like water quality and marine habitat impacts, and explore regulatory differences between bottom and column leases. The Collaboratory must consult with various stakeholders including the Division of Marine Fisheries, Marine Fisheries Commission, shellfish growers, commercial and recreational fishermen, property owners, and local coastal governments. The research will culminate in an interim report due by December 1, 2025, and a final report with legislative and regulatory recommendations due by May 1, 2026, aimed at creating a statewide framework that supports the shellfish aquaculture industry while mitigating potential conflicts with public trust water users.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Government Affairs

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H841