Maryland Bill can strengthen the Chesapike Bay watercounts with Japanese fishing technique – WBOC TV 16

Annapolis, MD – Maryland Governor Wes Moore has thrown his support behind the new legislation aimed at improving Chesapike Bay while enhancing the industries that rely on his waters.

The proposed Chesapeake Bay legacy law includes several measures designed to clean the bay and support the local watermelon. A provision in the bill would allow the war to use Japanese fish processing technique called IKEJIME without requiring a license.

Ikejime, which involves the movement of a jump in the brain of the fish and a striking cord through its spine, is known for maintaining the quality of the meat.

“This definitely adds a different level, because when a fish is removed from the water, it can release adrenaline and this adrenaline can release, I believe lactic acid in the fish, which I think breaks down the muscles in the fish,” said Nick Hargrove, owner of Wittman Wharf, catfish processing plant.

Hargrove says Ikejime can increase the value of the fish sold by Maryland Watermelon. However, fears remain before the federal regulations.

“This will come down to how the USDA sees this. If they consider a form of processing, then it will create many problems for fishermen to be able to perform these tasks on the boat, not in a controlled environment,” Hargrove said.

Despite the potential regulatory challenges, Hargrove believes that practice can be beneficial for both processors and commercial fishermen.

“In the world where fishermen get quotas reductions all the time, just make a simple process like the one that can add more value to their catch is a situation that earns both processors and commercial fishermen,” said He.

Chesapike Bay’s legacy law is still in the early stages of discussion in Anapolis. If accepted, the legislation will enter into force on July 1 in Maryland.