Fishery Management Councils are regional organizations in the United States responsible for managing fishery resources in federal waters. They develop and implement regulations to ensure sustainable fishing practices, protect marine ecosystems, and support local fishing communities. Each council covers a specific geographic area and includes representatives from various stakeholders, such as fishermen, scientists, and conservationists. The councils operate under the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, which mandates the use of scientific data to guide decision-making. They hold public meetings to gather input and discuss management plans, ensuring that the interests of both the fishing industry and the environment are considered.