GARFO Operating Hours
The GARFO office in Gloucester, Massachusetts is open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. The Regional Office in Gloucester is ONLY open to the public when the CDC COVID-19 Community Risk Level is LOW.
Plan Your Visit
All members of the public are strongly encouraged to call or email the Gloucester Office in advance of your visit to find out with whom you should speak, and schedule an appointment. If the CDC Community Risk Level is HIGH or MEDIUM, we will be happy to help you over the phone or email.
Although the Regional Office is open to the public when CDC Community Risk Level is LOW, most staff are working a hybrid schedule (some days in the office and some days from home). Contacting us in advance will save you valuable time, ensure the office is currently open to the public (not open at HIGH or MEDIUM Risk Level), and help ensure the appropriate staff members will be available in the office to answer your questions when you arrive.
If you plan to visit one of our field offices, you are also encouraged to contact that office in advance to plan your visit.
Contacting the Regional Office
If you know the staff person that you would like to speak with, please use our staff directory to obtain their contact information.
If you are unsure with whom you should speak, please use our Regional Office Key Contacts webpage to assist you.
You can also reach us through our general email address (nmfs.gar.garfo@noaa.gov) or call, (978) 281-9300.
You may also contact our Port Agent Team, who have locations from Maine to Virginia.
When You Arrive at GARFO
Please enter through the main entrance and check in with the security guard. Please tell the security guard you are there for an appointment, and you will be directed to an area in the lobby where you can call the appropriate division or the staff member directly to let them know you have arrived.
If you are visiting GARFO without an appointment, the security guard will provide instructions on how to contact an appropriate staff member via a calling center located in the lobby. Please note that without an appointment, there is no guarantee you can meet with a staff member in person.
We look forward to seeing you!
