Commerce Department Announces Regional Fishery Management Council Appointments

Washington, D.C. – July 2, 2025 – U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick finalized this year’s appointments to the Regional Fishery Management Councils (RFMC). The recreational fishing community appreciates the Trump Administration considering their preferred candidates and appointing many recreation-friendly council members.  These include: Peter Whalen of New Hampshire; Scott Lenox of Maryland; Gary Borland of South Carolina; Brenda Ballard of Texas; John Marquez of Mississippi; Michael Allen of Florida; Peter Hassemer of Idaho, and Jaime Diamond of California. 

These appointments reflect the Administration’s commitment to ensuring knowledgeable, experienced conservation-minded individuals help to shape federal fisheries policy. The new and returning council members will play a critical role in managing recreational saltwater fisheries that support more than 15 million American anglers and contribute over $138 billion in sales and nearly 700,000 jobs annually.

“Secretary Lutnick’s appointments signal a commitment by this Commerce Department to partner with the recreational fishing community to properly conserve and manage our nation’s public fishery resources,” said Jeff Angers, president of the Center for Sportfishing Policy. “We are especially encouraged to see so many of our endorsed candidates recognized for their expertise and dedication.”

“We are grateful for Secretary Lutnick’s selection of a strong slate of recreational fishing representatives for the regional fishery management councils,” said Chris Horton, senior director of fisheries policy for the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation. “While the foundational tenants of the Magnuson-Stevens Act are solid, the often very narrow interpretation of the law by NOAA combined with ever-changing ocean conditions are presenting significant challenges for marine fisheries management. We look forward to working with the new and existing council members to chart better paths forward for fisheries sustainability and recreational access.”

Mr. Whalen, a charter captain on the New Hampshire Seacoast for the past 15 years, has been reappointed to the New England Fishery Management Council. A strong advocate for recreational marine fisheries, he has served on multiple advisory roles under ASMFC and NEFMC, including representing New Hampshire on the Striped Bass Advisory Panel. His experience and leadership ensure continued strong representation for the recreational community in the region.

Mr. Lenox was reappointed to the Mid Atlantic Council and brings over 30 years of experience in Maryland’s recreational fishing industry. As the founder of Fish in OC and host of Hooked on OC, he has promoted Maryland’s fishing community while actively contributing to fisheries management through his work on the Maryland Sport Fisheries Advisory Commission.

Mr. Borland has been reappointed to represent South Carolina for the South Atlantic Council and has more than four decades of experience in the marine fishing and tackle industry. Currently Vice President of Quantum at Rather Outdoor, he also brings 21 years of experience as a charter boat operator, offering a dual perspective that bridges industry and angler concerns.

Ms. Ballard was appointed to the Gulf Council, which overseas fisheries management in the Gulf of America. As the director at Texas A&M University-Kingsville and president of CCA Brush Country, she blends academic leadership with active conservation engagement. Her participation on the Texas Parks and Wildlife Coastal Resources Advisory Committee and the Gulf Council’s Reef Fish AP highlights her qualifications to serve Texas’ recreational community.

Mr. Marquez was also appointed to the Gulf Council and is a lifelong sportsman and seasoned policy advocate. With nearly 30 years of experience in fisheries policy—including roles with the U.S. Maritime Administration, CCA Mississippi, and the Mississippi Wildlife Federation—he brings a deep understanding of the region’s challenges and a strong commitment to sustaining its marine resources. Marquez is filling the seat previously held by Michael McDermott who was also a stalwart champion for recreational anglers in the Gulf of America.   

Dr. Allen is a University of Florida fisheries professor, co-owner of a seafood shop, and chair of the Gulf Council’s Science and Statistical Committee. He fishes over 75 days annually and has a deep commitment to both resource stewardship and promoting access to Gulf seafood. 

Mr. Hassemer continues to represent Idaho on the Pacific Council with distinction. Recently retired from a 26-year career at the Idaho Department of Fish and Game, he brings deep expertise from his work on Columbia River and West Coast management bodies and has served on the Pacific Council since 2015.

Ms. Diamond was also appointed to the Pacific Council. She co-owns Stardust Sportfishing in Santa Barbara and holds a commercial lobster permit. Her broad experience and leadership roles with MAFAC and the Sportfishing Association of California position her as a strong voice for sustainable, science-based fisheries management on the Pacific Council.
 

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