A Vineyarder has been picked to lead a statewide advisory board that deals with proposed commercial and recreational fishery regulatory changes.
The Marine Fisheries Advisory Commission voted last week to appoint Shelley Edmunson, a West Tisbury resident and executive director of the Martha’s Vineyard Fishermen’s Preservation Trust, to serve as the chair of the commission.
Ms. Edmunson has been a member of the commission since 2020 and has extensive experience in fishery research and strong connections with the fishing industry.
She also has a PhD in zoology and marine biology from the University of New Hampshire, where she researched channeled whelk, also known as conch — one of the Island’s largest commercial fisheries.
“Shelley’s experience in promoting waterfront issues on the Vineyard along with her science background will make her an extremely effective leader,” said Daniel McKiernan, the director of the Division of Marine Fisheries.
The Marine Fisheries Advisory Commission was formed in 1960 as a group of industry leaders to help advise the state on fishing issues. Ms. Emundson succeeds longtime chair Raymond Kane, who is the outreach coordinator for the Cape Cod Commercial Fishermen’s Alliance.
“I am honored to serve as Chair of the Massachusetts Marine Fisheries Advisory Commission, and I am thankful for this opportunity,” Ms. Edmundson said. “Marine fisheries play a vital role in both the culture and economy of our state, and I look forward to continuing to work collaboratively to protect and strengthen these resources for future generations.”
This article appears in June 5, 2026.
A great choice!
Very proud of Shelley. She is a stellar leader and scientist in our local fisheries industry and will bring her talentrs and expertise to her new position at the state level. Good work Ms. Edmunson!