The Magnuson-Stevens Act is the primary law that governs marine fisheries management in U.S. federal waters. First passed in 1976, the Act fosters the long-term biological and economic sustainability of marine fisheries. It works to prevent overfishing, rebuild overfished stocks, increase long-term economic and social benefits, ensure a safe and sustainable supply of seafood, and protect habitat that fish need to spawn, breed, feed, and grow to maturity.

Under the Act, U.S. fisheries management is a transparent and public process of science, management, innovation, and collaboration with the fishing industry. And as the cornerstone of U.S. marine fisheries management, the Act positions the United States as a global leader in sustainable fisheries.

Since this landmark law was passed, it has prevented overfishing, rebuilt 52 stocks, protected essential habitats, and supported sustainable seafood and coastal economies. Its work and impact remain just as important today as the day it was signed. Explore the features below to celebrate 50 years of the Magnuson-Stevens Act!

Features

Magnuson-Stevens Act at 50: Charting a Course to Sustainable Fisheries

This landmark legislation set the United States on track to become a world leader in sustainable fisheries management.

More on the Magnuson-Stevens Act at 50

50 Years of Innovation and Leadership: Celebrating the Magnuson-Stevens Act

NOAA Fisheries Assistant Administrator Eugenio Piñeiro Soler reflects on the legacy and the future impact of the Act.

Read the leadership message from NOAA Fisheries Assistant Administrator Eugenio Piñeiro Soler

Through the Regions: A Closer Look at Fishery Management Councils

One of the most innovative aspects of the Magnuson-Stevens Act was the establishment of eight regional councils to manage fisheries. Across the country, regional councils are tackling their own unique challenges, each shaped by their local coastal communities and united under a shared framework. In celebration of 50 years of the Act, we're presenting this eight-part series to highlight the landmark work of each region.

New England Fishery Management: Backed by Science, Shaped by People

Due to decades of collaboration and science-based management, New England's fishing heritage has persevered amidst the region's unique challenges.

Find out more about fishery management in New England

Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management: Science, Stewardship, and Shared Successes

In the Mid-Atlantic region, managers, scientists, and fishermen have spent decades adapting to changing conditions while working together to keep fishermen on the water.

Learn more about fishery management in the Mid-Atlantic

A Journey to Rebuilt Stocks

From Overfished to Sustainable Harvests: Pacific Bluefin Tuna Rebound to New Highs

New stock assessment reveals largest recorded biomass since assessments began.

Pacific bluefin tuna rebound to new highs

Canary Rockfish-A Story of U.S. Fisheries Management

Learn more about the work to rebuild canary rockfish-one of more than 60 species of rockfish included in the West Coast groundfish fishery.

How we rebuilt canary rockfish

New Fishing Opportunities Emerge from Resurgence of West Coast Groundfish

Rebuilt West Coast groundfish species are good news for fishermen and fans of healthy and delicious fish.

Find out more about rebuilt West Coast groundfish

A Major Rebuilding Milestone: 50th Fish Stock Rebuilt

Snohomish coho salmon was declared overfished in 2018 and has now been rebuilt to a sustainable level, making it the 50th rebuilt fish stock under the Magnuson-Stevens Act.

Explore the 50th fish stock rebuilt