An Evaluation of the Advisory System for North Carolina Marine Fisheries Regulators

North Carolina’s fisheries regulatory regime shows signs of a precipitous decline in public trust and perceived legitimacy in the decision-making process. One facet of widespread frustration is the function of the advisory system for state fisheries regulators. When science advice is done well, it can bolster public trust in the decision-making process and serve as a tool of accountability. However, an advisory system that is poorly designed or implemented can undermine trust and accountability. This article examines the use of the advisory system to North Carolina fisheries regulators within the context of three controversial areas of decision-making: area closures for shrimp trawling, southern flounder management plans, and development of a shellfish aquaculture industry. We identify weaknesses in the design and implementation of the advisory system and provide recommendations for improving outcomes toward goals of public trust in the fisheries regulatory process and accountability of decision makers.