Oct. 3, 1970 — NMFS is born. Fisheries management makes a move at the federal level. The Interior Department’s Bureau of Commercial Fisheries will become the National Marine Fisheries Service under the Commerce Department. 

Director Philip M. Roedel will transition with the agency.
When refloating efforts failed after the 68-foot trawler Patricia M went aground in June at South Jacksonville Beach, Fla., owner Matt C. Rowland of Atlantic Beach removed as much of her gear as possible and then turned the hulk over to the insurance company. E.M. Hagen of Jacksonville was hired to do the job of clearing the debris and began burning her piecemeal. (NF December 1970)

The crew of the John N. Cobb tests methods for handling blackcod pots on bottom setlines out of Seattle. The fish, typically sold as bycatch on halibut longlines, go for about 25 cents a pound. (NF December 1970)

Did you see Twin Disc at the American Commercial Fish Exposition in 1970?

Have you listened to this article via the audio player?

If so, send us your feedback around what we can do to improve this feature or further develop it. If not, check it out and let us know what you think via email or on social media.

Jessica Hathaway is a Fisheries and Seafood Senior Consultant for Ocean Strategies and is a former editor of National Fisherman.

Join the Conversation