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Associated Press - December 5, 2009 10:44 AM ET
NEW ORLEANS (AP) - The red snapper population in the Gulf of Mexico, an overfished species subject to tight regulations, is showing signs of recovering, according to a new analysis.
The results of an annual survey of red snapper were released in New Orleans on Wednesday and showed that fishermen reeled in bigger and more mature fish in 2009. Officials say that's a sign that red snapper are getting healthier.
Based on that analysis, a panel of scientists recommended allowing fishermen to catch more of the fish starting next year. The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council, which sets fishing limits, will vote on the recommendation in February.
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