(a) Advise and assist fishermen: (1) in the establishment of fishing cooperatives and/or other types of business enterprises designed to permit maximum utilization of limited financial and other resources; (2) in the planning and establishment of facilities for boat landing, repair and maintenance; (3) in obtaining loans, grants or other means of financing their commercial fishing operations; and (4) regarding the availability and desirability of various types of fishing vessels, gear and other equipment.
(b) Investigate and develop markets and potential markets for United States Virgin Islands fishery products.
(c) Develop an efficient distribution system or systems for rapid transportation of fish products to markets outside the United States Virgin Islands.
(d) Seek the cooperation of and work with those federal agencies responsible for the establishment of commercial shipping lanes in the territorial waters in order to minimize interference with local commercial fishing grounds and operations.
(e) Conduct such studies regarding the economic potential of the commercial fishing and related industries in the United States Virgin Islands as are necessary to the proper planning, promotion and development of such industries.
(f) With the aid and cooperation of other governmental departments and agencies, undertake the establishment of a statistical information service designed for use by the fisheries industry and fishermen. Such service shall include the gathering and compiling of the results of studies, reports and other data pertaining to fishing, fisheries management, conservation and other relevant subjects. Such statistical information shall be published from time to time and distributed to fishermen and other interested persons or entities.
(g) Promulgate in the manner provided by section 304 of Title 12 of the Code, such rules and regulations as are necessary or desirable in the administration of the provisions of this chapter.
(h) Receive and administer such federal grants and other financial aids as are available for the promotion and development of the commercial fishing industry.
(i) Act as liaison between fishermen and officials or experts involved in scientific research and projects pertaining to fishing and the fishing industry in order that such fishermen may be well apprised of modern techniques and recent developments and facts having an effect upon their livelihood.
(j) Maintain constant communication and collaborate with the fisheries advisory committees created by section 1404 of this chapter.
(k) Undertake continuous review of the programs affecting fishermen and fisheries promotion instituted under the Department of Planning and Natural Resources, and make recommendations to the Governor and the Legislature regarding legislation which is necessary or desirable in enhancing the promotion of the commercial fishing industry.