Mississippi Gulf News

Representatives Mike Ezell, Michael Guest, Bennie Thompson, and Trent Kelly have introduced the Cormorant Relief Act of 2025. This legislation seeks to address the impact of cormorant overpopulation on fisheries.

"Cormorant overpopulation is hurting fish populations and threatening industries that depend on healthy fisheries," stated Ezell. He emphasized that the bill allows Mississippians to manage these birds and protect the aquaculture industry.

House Natural Resources Chairman Westerman expressed support for the bill, saying it empowers aquaculture producers to safeguard their livelihoods. "I'd like to thank Congressman Ezell for his leadership on this issue," he added.

Guest highlighted the importance of providing tools for Mississippi catfish farmers in dealing with bird depredation. "I am grateful for the partnership with my colleagues in the Mississippi Congressional Delegation," he said.

Thompson noted that unchecked cormorant populations threaten Mississippi's fisheries and local economies. "This bipartisan effort ensures that Mississippi has the necessary tools to manage these birds effectively," he remarked.

Chad Causey from Catfish Farmers of America praised Ezell and Thompson for sponsoring a bill that helps manage bird depredation while protecting migratory birds. "DCC cause millions of dollars in losses on catfish farms every year through predation and the spread of disease," he explained.

Sebastian Belle, President of the National Aquaculture Association, supports Ezell’s bill as a commonsense approach to managing bird populations affecting farmed fish. The legislation aims to relieve regulatory burdens from individual farms by eliminating delays in permit issuance by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

The unchecked growth of cormorants has caused significant damage to fish populations, affecting both commercial and recreational fishing industries. The Cormorant Relief Act of 2025 seeks greater flexibility in managing these populations to protect fisheries and local economies. Congressman Ezell remains committed to supporting conservation efforts and sustaining fishing industries.