(VIRGINIA BEACH, VA)—The Winter Crab Dredge Survey results released today show increasing numbers of all three major biological indicators of blue crabs in the Chesapeake Bay. Chesapeake Bay Foundation Senior Regional Ecosystem Scientist Chris Moore issued the following statement:
"While there are many variables that affect blue crabs, these strong numbers are not surprising after a mild winter and the good harvests reported by watermen last fall and this spring. Good fisheries management and healthy habitat are the two big keys to a strong blue crab population.
"This is another year of positive news for crabs in the Bay thanks to wise management of the commercial and recreational fisheries for blue crabs. Increasing important blue crab habitat such as underwater grasses and oyster reefs also helps to boost the crab population. We hope the Bay states will continue their wise management policies and water quality investments in order to maintain these promising numbers."
