Spring 2010 Semiannual Agenda of Regulations

Part IV

Department of Commerce

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###Semiannual Regulatory Agenda###

[[Page 21750]]

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)

_______________________________________________________________________

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

Office of the Secretary

13 CFR Ch. III

15 CFR Subtitle A; Subtitle B, Chs. I, II, III, VII, VIII, IX, and XI

19 CFR Ch. III

37 CFR Chs. I, IV, and V

48 CFR Ch. 13

50 CFR Chs. II, III, IV, and VI

Spring 2010 Semiannual Agenda of Regulations

AGENCY: Office of the Secretary, Commerce.

ACTION: Semiannual regulatory agenda.

_______________________________________________________________________

SUMMARY: In compliance with Executive Order 12866, entitled

``Regulatory Planning and Review,'' and the Regulatory Flexibility Act,

as amended, the Department of Commerce (Department), in the spring and

fall of each year, publishes in the Federal Register an agenda of

regulations under development of review over the next 12 months.

Rulemaking actions are grouped according to prerulemaking, proposed

rules, final rules, long-term actions, and rulemaking actions completed

since the fall 2009 agenda. The purpose of the agenda is to provide

information to the public on regulations currently under review, being

proposed, or issued by the Department. The agenda is intended to

facilitate comments and views by interested members of the public.

The Department's spring 2010 regulatory agenda includes

regulatory activities that are expected to be conducted during the

period April 1, 2010, through March 31, 2011.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Specific: For additional information about specific regulatory

actions listed in the agenda, contact the individual identified as

the contact person.

General: Comments or inquiries of a general nature about the

agenda should be directed to Tricia Choe, Acting Chief Counsel for

Regulation, Office of the Assistant General Counsel for Legislation

and Regulation, U.S. Department of Commerce, Washington, DC 20230;

telephone: 202-482-3151.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Executive Order 12866 requires agencies to

publish an agenda of those regulations that are under consideration

pursuant to this order. By memorandum of January 15, 2010, the Office

of Management and Budget issued guidelines and procedures for the

preparation and publication of the spring 2010 Unified Agenda of

Federal Regulatory and Deregulatory Actions. The Regulatory Flexibility

Act, 5 U.S.C. 601 et seq., requires agencies to publish, in the spring

and fall of each year, a regulatory flexibility agenda that contains a

brief description of the subject of any rule likely to have a

significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities.

The agenda also identifies those entries that have been selected for

periodic review under section 610 of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.

In addition, beginning with the fall 2007 edition, the Internet

became the basic means for disseminating the Unified Agenda. The

complete Unified Agenda will be available online at

www.reginfo.gov, in a format that offers users a greatly enhanced

ability to obtain information from the Agenda database.

Because publication in the Federal Register is mandated for the

regulatory flexibility agendas required by the Regulatory

Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 602), the Department of Commerce's

printed agenda entries include only:

(1) Rules that are in the Agency's regulatory flexibility

agenda, in accordance with the Regulatory Flexibility Act, because

they are likely to have a significant economic impact on a

substantial number of small entities; and

(2) Rules that the Agency has identified for periodic review

under section 610 of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.

Printing of these entries is limited to fields that contain

information required by the Regulatory Flexibility Act's Agenda

requirements. Additional information on these entries is available

in the United Agenda published on the Internet. In addition, for

fall editions of the Agenda, the entire Regulatory Plan will

continue to be printed in the Federal Register, as in past years,

including the Department of Commerce's Regulatory Plan.

Within the Department, the Office of the Secretary and various

operating units may issue regulations. Operating units, such as the

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the Bureau

of Industry and Security, and the Patent and Trademark Office issue

the greatest share of the Department's regulations.

A large number of regulatory actions reported in the agenda

deal with fishery management programs of NOAA's National Marine

Fisheries Service (NMFS). To avoid repetition of programs and

definitions, as well as to provide some understanding of the

technical and institutional elements of the NMFS programs, an

``Explanation of Information Contained in NMFS Regulatory Entries''

is provided below.

Explanation of Information Contained in NMFS Regulatory Entries

The Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act

(16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.) (the Act) governs the management of

fisheries within the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The EEZ refers

to those waters from the outer edge of the State boundaries,

generally 3 nautical miles, to a distance of 200 nautical miles.

Fishery Management Plans (FMPs) are to be prepared for fisheries

that require conservation and management measures. Regulations

implementing these FMPs regulate domestic fishing and foreign

fishing where permitted. Foreign fishing may be conducted in a

fishery in which there is no FMP only if a preliminary fishery

management plan has been issued to govern that foreign fishing.

Under the Act, eight Regional Fishery Management Councils

(Councils) prepare FMPs or amendments to FMPs for fisheries within

their respective areas. In the development of such plans or

amendments and their implementing regulations, the Councils are

required by law to conduct public hearings on the draft plans and

to consider the use of alternative means of regulating.

The Council process for developing FMPs and amendments makes it

difficult for NMFS to determine the significance and timing of some

regulatory actions under consideration by the Councils at the time

the semiannual regulatory agenda is published.

The Department's spring 2010 regulatory agenda follows.

Cameron F. Kerry,

General Counsel.

[[Page 21751]]

International Trade Administration--Long-Term Actions

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Regulation

Sequence Title Identifier

Number Number

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

50 Commercial Availability of Fabric and Yarn............................................ 0625-AA59

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National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Proposed Rule Stage

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Regulation

Sequence Title Identifier

Number Number

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

51 Maximize Retention and Monitoring Program in the Shore-Based Pacific Whiting Fishery.. 0648-AR63

52 American Lobster Fishery; Fishing Effort Control Measures To Complement Interstate 0648-AT31

Lobster Management Recommendations by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission.

53 South Atlantic Fishery Ecosystem Plan Comprehensive Amendment......................... 0648-AV31

54 Collection and Use of Tax Identification Numbers From Holders of and Applicants for 0648-AV76

National Marine Fisheries Service Permits.............................................

55 Amendment 17 to the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council Snapper Grouper Fishery 0648-AW11

Management Plan.......................................................................

56 Amendment 2 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Queen Conch Fishery of Puerto Rico 0648-AW15

and the U.S. Virgin Islands...........................................................

57 Marine Mammal Protection Act Stranding Regulation Revisions........................... 0648-AW22

58 Amendment 4 to the Atlantic Herring Fishery Management Plan........................... 0648-AW75

59 Allowable Modifications to the Turtle Excluder Device (TED) Requirements.............. 0648-AW93

60 Regulatory Amendment To Correct and Clarify Amendment 13 and Subsequent Frameworks of 0648-AW95

the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan....................................

61 Amendment 11 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, Butterfish Fishery Management Plan...... 0648-AX05

62 Amendment 30 to the Fishery Management Plan for Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands King 0648-AX47

and Tanner Crabs Arbitration Regulations..............................................

63 Salmon Bycatch Reduction Management Measures for the Fishery Management Plan 91 in the 0648-AX89

Bering Sea Aleutian Islands...........................................................

64 Revoke Inactive Quota Share and Annual Individual Fishing Quota From a Holder of Quota 0648-AX91

Share Under the Pacific Halibut and Sablefish Fixed Gear Individual Fishing Quota

Program...............................................................................

65 2010 Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Recreational Management Measures....... 0648-AY04

66 Maximized Retention Monitoring Program for Catcher Vessels in the Pacific Whiting 0648-AY17

Mothership Fishery in the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery............................

67 Fisheries of the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, South Atlantic; Gulf of Mexico Fisheries; 0648-AY22

Generic Amendment for Annual Catch Limits.............................................

68 Regulatory Amendment To Revise Charter Halibut Logbook Submission Requirements........ 0648-AY38

69 Addendum IV to the Weakfish Interstate Management Plan--Bycatch Trip Limit............ 0648-AY41

70 Framework 21 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan...................... 0648-AY43

71 Fishery Management Plan Amendment 95 for Skates Management in the Groundfish Fisheries 0648-AY48

of the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands................................................

72 Amendment 2; Fishery Management Plan for Queen Conch Fishery of Puerto Rico and U.S. 0648-AY55

Virgin Islands, and Amendment 5; Reef Fish Fishery Management Plan of Puerto Rico and

U.S. Virgin Islands...................................................................

73 Fisheries Off West Coast States; Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery; Interim 2010 Tribal 0648-AY59

Whiting Regulations...................................................................

74 Fisheries Off West Coast States; West Coast Salmon Fisheries; 2010 Management Measures 0648-AY60

75 Marine Mammal Protection Act Permit Regulation Revisions.............................. 0648-AV82

76 Take and Import Marine Mammals: Proposed Rule for Take of Marine Mammals Incidental to 0648-AW59

Routine Operations of 13 Power Generating Stations in Central and Southern California.

77 Reduce Sea Turtle Bycatch in Atlantic Trawl Fisheries................................. 0648-AY61

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National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Final Rule Stage

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Regulation

Sequence Title Identifier

Number Number

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78 Certification of Nations Whose Fishing Vessels Are Engaged in IUU Fishing or Bycatch 0648-AV51

of Protected Living Marine Resources..................................................

79 Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Reauthorization Act (MSRA) 0648-AV53

Environmental Review Procedure........................................................

80 Revise Regulations Governing the North Pacific Groundfish Observer Program............ 0648-AW24

[[Page 21752]]

81 Amendment 3 to the Northeast Skate Complex Fishery Management Plan.................... 0648-AW30

82 Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Atlantic Shark Management Measures................. 0648-AW65

83 Amendment 31 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish Resources of the Gulf of 0648-AX67

Mexico................................................................................

84 Snapper-Grouper Fishery Management Plan of the South Atlantic......................... 0648-AX75

85 Framework Adjustment 44 and Specifications for the Northeast Multispecies Fishery 0648-AY29

Management Plan.......................................................................

86 FY 2010 Atlantic Deep-Sea Red Crab Specifications..................................... 0648-AY51

87 Provide Regulations for Permits for Capture, Transport, Import, and Export of 0648-AH26

Protected Species for Public Display, and for Maintaining a Captive Marine Mammal

Inventory.............................................................................

88 Protective Regulations for Killer Whales in the Northwest Region Under the Endangered 0648-AV15

Species Act and Marine Mammal Protection Act..........................................

89 Rulemaking To Establish Take Prohibitions for the Threatened Southern Distinct 0648-AV94

Population Segment of North American Green Sturgeon...................................

90 Taking and Importing Marine Mammals; U.S. Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City 0648-AW80

Division Mission Activities...........................................................

91 Rule To Revise the Critical Habitat Designation for the Endangered Leatherback Sea 0648-AX06

Turtle................................................................................

92 Critical Habitat Designation for Cook Inlet Beluga Whale Under the Endangered Species 0648-AX50

Act...................................................................................

93 Taking of Marine Mammals Incidental to Specified Activities; Taking Marine Mammals 0648-AX86

Incidental to Training Operations Conducted Within the Gulf of Mexico Range Complex...

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National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Long-Term Actions

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Regulation

Sequence Title Identifier

Number Number

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

94 Fishery Management Plan for Regulating Offshore Marine Aquaculture in the Gulf of 0648-AS65

Mexico................................................................................

95 Amendment 5 to the Atlantic Herring Fishery Management Plan........................... 0648-AY47

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National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Completed Actions

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Regulation

Sequence Title Identifier

Number Number

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

96 Fisheries in the Western Pacific; Pelagic Fisheries; Squid Jig Fisheries.............. 0648-AS71

97 Modifying Maximum Retainable Amounts (MRAs) for Selected Groundfish Species Caught by 0648-AV32

the Non-American Fishing Act Trawl Catcher Processor Sector...........................

98 Initial Implementation of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Convention 0648-AV63

Implementation Act....................................................................

99 Amendment 15B to the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council Snapper Grouper Fishery 0648-AW12

Management Plan.......................................................................

100 Fisheries in the Western Pacific; Western Pacific Pelagic Fisheries; Amendment 18 to 0648-AW49

the Pelagics Fishery Management Plan; Shallow-Set Longline Swordfish Fishery..........

101 Halibut Charter Vessel Moratorium..................................................... 0648-AW92

102 Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; 2009 North and South Atlantic Commercial Quotas.... 0648-AX07

103 Amendment 29 to the Fishery Management Plan for Reef Fish Resources of the Gulf of 0648-AX39

Mexico................................................................................

104 Western and Central Pacific Fisheries for Highly Migratory Species; Implementation of 0648-AX59

the Longline Catch Limits Adopted at the Fifth Session of the Western and Central

Pacific Fisheries Commission..........................................................

105 Fisheries Off West Coast States; Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery; Data Collection for 0648-AX98

the Trawl Rationalization Program.....................................................

106 Amendment 10 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fishery Management Plan.. 0648-AY00

107 Fishing Restrictions in the Longline and Purse Seine Fisheries in the Eastern Pacific 0648-AY08

Ocean in 2009, 2010, and 2011.........................................................

108 2010 Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fishery Specifications and Management 0648-AY13

Measures..............................................................................

109 2010 Pacific Halibut Fisheries; Catch Sharing Plan.................................... 0648-AY31

110 Harbor Porpoise Take Reduction Plan Regulations....................................... 0648-AW51

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[[Page 21753]]

Patent and Trademark Office--Proposed Rule Stage

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Regulation

Sequence Title Identifier

Number Number

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111 Revision of USPTO Fees for Fiscal Year 2011........................................... 0651-AC43

112 Revision of USPTO Fees for Fiscal Year 2012........................................... 0651-AC44

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Patent and Trademark Office--Final Rule Stage

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Regulation

Sequence Title Identifier

Number Number

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

113 Interim Increase on Patent Fees for Fiscal Year 2011.................................. 0651-AC42

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Patent and Trademark Office--Completed Actions

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Regulation

Sequence Title Identifier

Number Number

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

114 Examination of Patent Applications That Include Claims Containing Alternative Language 0651-AC00

115 Fiscal Year 2009 Revision of Request for Continued Examination, 18-Month Publication, 0651-AC29

and Other Miscellaneous Cost-Recovery Patent Fees.....................................

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_______________________________________________________________________

Department of Commerce (DOC) Long-Term Actions

International Trade Administration (ITA)

_______________________________________________________________________

50. COMMERCIAL AVAILABILITY OF FABRIC AND YARN

Legal Authority: PL 106-200, sec 112(b)(5)(B); PL 106-200, sec 211; EO

13191; PL 107-210, sec 3103

Abstract: This rule implements certain provisions of the Trade and

Development Act of 2000 (the Act). Title I of the Act (the African

Growth and Opportunity Act or AGOA), title II of the Act (the United

States-Caribbean Basin Trade Partnership Act or CBTPA), and title XXXI

of the Trade Act of 2002 (the Andean Trade Promotion and Drug

Eradication Act or ATPDEA) provide for quota- and duty-free treatment

for qualifying apparel products from designated beneficiary countries.

AGOA and CBTPA authorize quota- and duty-free treatment for apparel

articles that are both cut (or knit-to-shape) and sewn or otherwise

assembled in one or more designated beneficiary countries from yarn or

fabric that is not formed in the United States or a beneficiary

country, provided it has been determined that such yarn or fabric

cannot be supplied by the domestic industry in commercial quantities in

a timely manner. The President has delegated to the Committee for the

Implementation of Textile Agreements (the Committee), which is chaired

by the Department of Commerce, the authority to determine whether yarn

or fabric cannot be supplied by the domestic industry in commercial

quantities in a timely manner under the AGOA, the ATPDEA, and the

CBTPA, and has authorized the Committee to extend quota- and duty-free

treatment to apparel of such yarn or fabric. The rule provides the

procedure for interested parties to submit a request alleging that a

yarn or fabric cannot be supplied by the domestic industry in

commercial quantities in a timely manner, the procedure for public

comments, and relevant factors that will be considered in the

Committee's determination. The rule also outlines the factors to be

considered by the Committee in extending quota- and duty-free

treatment.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM To Be Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Janet Heinzen

Phone: 202 482-4006

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0625-AA59

[[Page 21754]]

_______________________________________________________________________

Department of Commerce (DOC) Proposed Rule Stage

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

_______________________________________________________________________

NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE

____________________________________________________

51. MAXIMIZE RETENTION AND MONITORING PROGRAM IN THE SHORE-BASED PACIFIC

WHITING FISHERY

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: The Pacific Fishery Management Council (Pacific Council) at

their October 21-25, 1996, meeting in San Francisco, California

addressed the treatment and disposition of salmon in the groundfish

trawl fisheries, specifically the shore-based whiting fishery. At that

meeting, the Pacific Council discussed the retention of salmon in the

shore-based whiting fishery and took action to maintain a viable shore-

based whiting fishery by using exempted fishing permits (EFPs). These

EFPs allowed the shore-based whiting fleet to temporarily deliver

unsorted catch to processing plants and provided for the monitoring of

incidentally taken salmon until a permanent monitoring program could be

implemented. In keeping with the Pacific Council's recommendation, NMFS

is proceeding with implementing a monitoring program for the shore-

based whiting fishery. This action will aid in the sustainable

management of Pacific Coast salmon and groundfish fisheries while

providing an important economic opportunity to those associated with

the harvest, processing, and selling of whiting taken by the shore-

based whiting fleet. The need for implementing a permanent monitoring

program in the shore-based Pacific whiting fishery is to provide for a

full retention fishery by enabling the shore-based whiting fleet,

comprised exclusively of catcher vessels, to deliver unsorted catch to

processing plants. This practice is necessary to ensure that whiting

landings are of market quality, while abiding by Federal groundfish

regulations and those implementing the Pacific Coast salmon and

groundfish fishery management plans (FMPs).

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 05/00/10

NPRM Comment Period End 07/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Barry Thom, Regional Administrator, Northwest Region,

NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration, Building 1, 7600 Sand Point Way NE., Seattle, WA 48115-

0070

Phone: 206 526-6150

Fax: 206 526-6426

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AR63

_______________________________________________________________________

52. AMERICAN LOBSTER FISHERY; FISHING EFFORT CONTROL MEASURES TO

COMPLEMENT INTERSTATE LOBSTER MANAGEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS BY THE ATLANTIC

STATES MARINE FISHERIES COMMISSION

Legal Authority: 16 USC 5101 et seq

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service announces that it is

considering, and seeking public comment on, revisions to Federal

American lobster regulations for the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ)

associated with effort control measures as recommended for Federal

implementation by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission

(ASFMC), as outlined in the Interstate Fishery Management Plan (ISFMP)

for American Lobster. This action will evaluate effort control measures

in certain Lobster Conservation Management Areas including: limits on

future access based on historic participation criteria; procedures to

allow trap transfers among qualifiers and impose a trap reduction or

conservation tax on any trap transfers; and a trap reduction schedule

to meet the goals of the ISFMP.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM 05/10/05 70 FR 24495

ANPRM Comment Period End 06/09/05

NPRM 05/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast

Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930

Phone: 978 281-9200

Fax: 978 281-9117

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AT31

_______________________________________________________________________

53. SOUTH ATLANTIC FISHERY ECOSYSTEM PLAN COMPREHENSIVE AMENDMENT

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: The purpose of this action is to develop an ecosystem-based

approach to resource management. The South Atlantic Council plans to

develop a Fishery Ecosystem Plan (FEP) Comprehensive Amendment, which

would modify all its Fishery Management Plans (FMPs). The initial

amendment would include the following: (1) Various actions to comply

with new essential fish habitat requirements; (2) establishment of deep

water coral Habitat Areas of Particular Concern, with gear limitations,

such as the establishment of allowable trawl areas; and (3) other

possible actions necessary to implement ecosystem-based fishery

management.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 05/00/10

NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region,

Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701

Phone: 727 570-5305

Fax: 727 570-5583

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AV31

_______________________________________________________________________

54. COLLECTION AND USE OF TAX IDENTIFICATION NUMBERS FROM HOLDERS OF AND

APPLICANTS FOR NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE PERMITS

Legal Authority: 31 USC 7701; 16 USC 1801 et seq; 16 USC 1361 et seq;

16 USC 1531 et seq

Abstract: In conformance with the Debt Collection Improvement Act of

1996 (Debt Collection Act), the National Marine Fisheries Service

(NMFS) will issue a rule to require that each existing holder of and

future applicant for a permit, license, endorsement, authorization,

transfer or like instrument issued by the agency provide a Taxpayer

Identification Number (TIN) (business, employer identification number

or individual,

[[Page 21755]]

social security number) and Date of Incorporation or Date of Birth, as

appropriate. Under the Debt Collection Act, NMFS is required to collect

the TIN to report on and collect any delinquent non-tax debt owed to

the Federal Government. NMFS plans to use Date of Incorporation or Date

of Birth information for administrative aspects of permitting

procedures with appropriate confidentiality safeguards pursuant to the

Privacy Act. The rule will specify: (a) The particular uses that may be

made of the reported TIN; (b) the effects, if any, of not providing the

required information; (c) how the information will be used to ascertain

if the permit holder or applicant owes delinquent non-tax debt to the

Government pursuant to the Debt Collection Act; (d) the effects on the

permit holder or applicant when such delinquent debts are owed; and (e)

the agency's intended communications with the permit holder or

applicant regarding the relationship of such delinquent debts to its

permitting process and the need to resolve such debts as a basis for

completing permit issuance or renewal. The rule will amend existing

agency permit regulations and contain all appropriate modified and new

collections-of-information pursuant to the Paperwork Reduction Act.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 05/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable

Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration, Room 13362, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD

20910

Phone: 301 713-2334

Fax: 301 713-0596

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AV76

_______________________________________________________________________

55. AMENDMENT 17 TO THE SOUTH ATLANTIC FISHERY MANAGEMENT COUNCIL

SNAPPER GROUPER FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: Amendment 17 is intended to establish management reference

points (MSY, OY) for red snapper; establish a rebuilding plan

(rebuilding timeframe and rebuilding strategy) for red snapper; specify

Annual Catch Limits (ACL), Annual Catch Targets (ACT), and

Accountability Measures (AM) for 10 species undergoing overfishing; and

modify management measures to ensure future catch is equal to or below

the ACL.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 05/00/10

NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region,

Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701

Phone: 727 570-5305

Fax: 727 570-5583

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AW11

_______________________________________________________________________

56. AMENDMENT 2 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE QUEEN CONCH

FISHERY OF PUERTO RICO AND THE U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: St. Croix queen conch landings by commercial fishermen alone

have exceeded sustainable harvest levels since the 2000-2001 fishing

season. In 2005-2006, the commercial harvest was over four times

sustainable levels. Additionally, there is an unknown but significant

recreational harvest. Overfishing of queen conch has led to resource

collapse in other regions and in some cases, long-term resource loss.

According to the NMFS Report on the Status of the U.S. Fisheries for

2006, queen conch is overfished and undergoing overfishing. Under

current fishing practices, reductions in mortality are not expected to

be sufficient in the queen conch fishery. Without a reduction in

mortality, queen conch are not expected to achieve the rebuilding goals

established in the Sustainable Fisheries Amendment of 2005. Therefore,

a change in fishing practices is needed to help achieve the necessary

reductions in queen conch fishing mortality.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice of Intent 10/11/07 72 FR 58057

NPRM 05/00/10

NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/10

Final Action 08/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region,

Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701

Phone: 727 570-5305

Fax: 727 570-5583

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AW15

_______________________________________________________________________

57. MARINE MAMMAL PROTECTION ACT STRANDING REGULATION REVISIONS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1379; 16 USC 1382; 16 USC 1421

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is considering

proposing changes to its implementing regulations (50 CFR 216)

governing the taking of stranded marine mammals under section 109(h),

section 112(c), and title IV of the Marine Mammal Protection Act and is

soliciting public comment to better inform the process. NMFS intends to

clarify the requirements and procedures for responding to stranded

marine mammals and for determining the disposition of rehabilitated

marine mammals, which includes the procedures for the placement of non-

releasable animals and for authorizing the retention of releasable

rehabilitated marine mammals for scientific research, enhancement, or

public display. This action will be analyzed under the National

Environmental Policy Act with an Environmental Assessment.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM 01/31/08 73 FR 5786

ANPRM Comment Period End 03/31/08

NPRM 05/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: David Cottingham, Department of Commerce, National

Oceanic and Atmospheric

[[Page 21756]]

Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910

Phone: 301 713-2322

Fax: 301 713-2521

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AW22

_______________________________________________________________________

58. AMENDMENT 4 TO THE ATLANTIC HERRING FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: The goal of Amendment 4 is to improve catch monitoring and

ensure compliance with the Reauthorized Magnuson-Stevens Fishery

Conservation and Management Act (MSRA). The management measures

developed in this amendment may address one or more of the following

objectives: (1) To implement measures to improve the long-term

monitoring of catch (landings and bycatch) in the herring fishery; (2)

to implement annual catch limits and accountability measures consistent

with the MSRA; (3) to implement other management measures as necessary

to ensure compliance with the new provisions of the MSRA; (4) to

develop a sector allocation process or other limited access privilege

program for the herring fishery; and (5) in the context of objectives

1-4 (above), to consider the health of the herring resource and the

important role of herring as a forage fish and a predator fish

throughout its range.

The New England Fishery Management Council will develop conservation

and management measures to address the issues identified above and meet

the goals/objectives of the amendment. Any conservation and management

measures developed in this amendment also must comply with all

applicable laws.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice of Intent 05/08/08 73 FR 26082

Notice of Intent Comment Period

End 06/30/08

NPRM 05/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast

Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930

Phone: 978 281-9200

Fax: 978 281-9117

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AW75

_______________________________________________________________________

59. ALLOWABLE MODIFICATIONS TO THE TURTLE EXCLUDER DEVICE (TED)

REQUIREMENTS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq

Abstract: NMFS proposes to revise the TED requirements to allow new

materials and modifications to existing approved TED designs.

Specifically, proposed allowable modifications include the use of flat

bar, box pipe, and oval pipe for use in currently-approved TED grids;

an increase in mesh size on escape flaps from 1-5/8 inches to 2 inches;

the use of the Boone single straight cut and triangular escape

openings; specifications on the use of TED grid brace bars; and the use

of the Chauvin Shrimp Kicker to improve shrimp retention.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 05/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Michael Barnette, Department of Commerce, National

Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South,

St. Petersburg, FL 33701

Phone: 727 551-5794

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AW93

_______________________________________________________________________

60. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO CORRECT AND CLARIFY AMENDMENT 13 AND

SUBSEQUENT FRAMEWORKS OF THE NORTHEAST MULTISPECIES FISHERY MANAGEMENT

PLAN

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: This action would make corrections and clarifications to the

final rule implementing Amendment 13 to the Northeast Multispecies

Fishery Management Plan, as well as subsequent groundfish actions.

These corrections are administrative in nature and are intended to

correct inaccurate references and other inadvertent errors and to

clarify specific regulations to maintain consistency with the intent of

Amendment 13 and subsequent actions.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 05/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast

Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930

Phone: 978 281-9200

Fax: 978 281-9117

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AW95

_______________________________________________________________________

61. AMENDMENT 11 TO THE ATLANTIC MACKEREL, SQUID, BUTTERFISH FISHERY

MANAGEMENT PLAN

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: Amendment 11 may consider: (1) Limited access in the Atlantic

mackerel (mackerel) fishery; (2) implementation of annual catch limits

(ACLs) and accountability measures (AMs) for mackerel and butterfish

required under the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management

Reauthorization Act of 2006 (MSRA); (3) updating of the description and

identification of essential fish habitat (EFH) for all life stages of

mackerel, Loligo squid, Illex squid, and butterfish (including gear

impacts on Loligo squid egg EFH); and (4) possible limitations on at-

sea processing of mackerel.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice of Intent 08/11/08 73 FR 46590

Notice of Intent Comment Period

End 09/10/08

NPRM 05/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast

Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930

Phone: 978 281-9200

Fax: 978 281-9117

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AX05

[[Page 21757]]

_______________________________________________________________________

62. AMENDMENT 30 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR BERING SEA AND

ALEUTIAN ISLANDS KING AND TANNER CRABS ARBITRATION REGULATIONS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1862; PL 109-241; PL 109-479

Abstract: The proposed action would implement Amendment 30 to the

Fishery Management Plan for Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands King and

Tanner Crabs to make minor modifications to the arbitration system used

to settle price and other disputes among harvesters and processors in

the Bering Sea/Aleutian Islands crab rationalization program.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 05/00/10

Notice of Availability 05/00/10

NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/10

Notice of Availability Comment

Period End 07/00/10

Final Rule 11/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region,

Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802

Phone: 907 586-7221

Fax: 907 586-7249

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AX47

_______________________________________________________________________

63. SALMON BYCATCH REDUCTION MANAGEMENT MEASURES FOR THE FISHERY

MANAGEMENT PLAN 91 IN THE BERING SEA ALEUTIAN ISLANDS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq; 16 USC 3631 et seq; 16 USC 773 et

seq; PL 108-447

Abstract: This fishery management plan amendment and rulemaking will

implement the North Pacific Fishery Management Council's

recommendations for management measures to minimize to the extent

practicable Chinook salmon bycatch in the Bering Sea pollock fishery.

These management measures provide two options for the pollock sectors

(e.g., inshore catcher vessels, offshore catcher-processors, catcher

vessels delivering to motherships, or CDQ entities): fish under a lower

Chinook salmon cap or participate in an incentive program and fish

under a higher cap. Under the first option, the fleet as a whole may

choose to fish under a transferable cap of 47,591 Chinook salmon, which

would be allocated by season and sector. Once each sector reaches its

specific cap, it would be prohibited from continuing to fish for

pollock for the remainder of the season. Alternatively, vessels or CDQ

entities may choose to participate in private contracts called

incentive plan agreements (IPA) which would describe how participants

would maintain low bycatch even when their bycatch levels are well

below the hard cap approved. Those vessels or CDQ entities

participating in an IPA would be allocated a transferable share of up

to 60,000 Chinook salmon. This cap would be reduced for any vessels or

CDQ entities not participating in an IPA and those vessels and CDQ

entities would fish under a lower, non-transferable cap. In addition to

the annual cap levels, if any sector operating under an IPA exceeds its

proportion of 47,591 Chinook salmon three times in any seven-year

period, the sector's maximum bycatch limit will be permanently reduced

to its proportional share of the 47,591 cap. If the FMP amendments and

proposed rule are approved, fishing under the new Chinook salmon

bycatch management measures would start in 2011.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice of Availability 02/18/10 75 FR 7228

NPRM 03/23/10 75 FR 14016

Notice of Availability Comment

Period End 04/19/10

NPRM Comment Period End 05/07/10

Final Rule 11/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region,

Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802

Phone: 907 586-7221

Fax: 907 586-7249

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AX89

_______________________________________________________________________

64. REVOKE INACTIVE QUOTA SHARE AND ANNUAL INDIVIDUAL FISHING QUOTA FROM

A HOLDER OF QUOTA SHARE UNDER THE PACIFIC HALIBUT AND SABLEFISH FIXED

GEAR INDIVIDUAL FISHING QUOTA PROGRAM

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq; 16 USC 773 (Halibut Act)

Abstract: This action would amend existing commercial fishing

regulations for the fixed-gear Pacific Halibut and sablefish individual

fishing quota program at 50 CFR 679. The amendment would revoke

inactive quota share unless the quota share permit holder affirmatively

notices NMFS in writing within 60 days of the agency's preliminary

determination of inactivity that they choose to (a) retain the inactive

IFQ quota share, (b) activate the quota share through transfer or by

fishing, or (c) appeal the preliminary determination. Quota share that

is not activated through this process and is revoked would be

proportionally distributed to the quota share pool. This regulatory

revision is based on the recommendations of the North Pacific Fishery

Management Council in June 2006 and again in February 2009. Amending

the regulations would improve the efficiency of the Pacific Halibut and

Sablefish IFQ program and augment operational flexibility of

participating fisherman.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 05/00/10

NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/10

Final Rule 11/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region,

Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802

Phone: 907 586-7221

Fax: 907 586-7249

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AX91

_______________________________________________________________________

65. 2010 SUMMER FLOUNDER, SCUP, AND BLACK SEA BASS RECREATIONAL

MANAGEMENT MEASURES

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

[[Page 21758]]

Abstract: This action will propose and implement the 2010 recreational

management measures (minimum fish size, fishing seasons, and possession

limits) for the summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass fisheries.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 05/00/10

NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast

Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930

Phone: 978 281-9200

Fax: 978 281-9117

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AY04

_______________________________________________________________________

66. MAXIMIZED RETENTION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR CATCHER VESSELS IN THE

PACIFIC WHITING MOTHERSHIP FISHERY IN THE PACIFIC COAST GROUNDFISH

FISHERY

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: The action would implement a monitoring program for catcher

vessels in the mothership sector of the Pacific whiting fishery off the

coast of Washington, Oregon, and California. The monitoring program

would consist of a camera and other sensors to monitor fishing activity

in order to maintain the integrity of the maximized retention

requirements found at 50 CFR 660.306 (f)(7). Maximized retention

encourages full retention of all catch while allowing minor discard

events to occur. This ensures that unsorted catch is available for

observers to monitor on board the mothership processors and thereby

maintains the integrity of data collected under the observer program.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 05/00/10

NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Frank Lockhart, Program Analyst, Department of

Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand

Point Way NE., Seattle, WA 98115

Phone: 206 526-6142

Fax: 206 526-6736

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AY17

_______________________________________________________________________

67. FISHERIES OF THE CARIBBEAN, GULF OF MEXICO, SOUTH ATLANTIC; GULF OF

MEXICO FISHERIES; GENERIC AMENDMENT FOR ANNUAL CATCH LIMITS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: The generic amendment is intended to modify five of the

Council's Fishery Management Plan (FMPs). These include FMPs for: Reef

Fish Resources, Shrimp, Stone Crab, Coral and Coral Reef Resources, and

Red Drum. NMFS and the Council will develop these Annual Catch Limits

(ACLs) in co-operation with the Scientific and Statistical Committee

and the Southeast Fisheries Science Center. NMFS, in collaboration with

the Council, will develop a DEIS to evaluate alternatives and actions

for the ACLs. Some examples of these actions include: establishing

sector specific ACLs, selecting levels of risk associated with species

yields, considering removal or withdrawal of species from FMPs, and

delegating species or species assemblages to state regulators.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice of Intent 08/04/09 74 FR 47206

NPRM 11/00/10

NPRM Comment Period End 12/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region,

Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701

Phone: 727 570-5305

Fax: 727 570-5583

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AY22

_______________________________________________________________________

68. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO REVISE CHARTER HALIBUT

LOGBOOK SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 2431 et seq; 31 USC 9701 et seq

Abstract: Clarifies and revises the charter halibut logbook submission

requirements at 50 CFR part 300 to better match the submission schedule

and reporting format of the Alaska Department of Fish and Game

saltwater charter logbook.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 05/00/10

NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region,

Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802

Phone: 907 586-7221

Fax: 907 586-7249

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AY38

_______________________________________________________________________

69. ADDENDUM IV TO THE WEAKFISH INTERSTATE MANAGEMENT

PLAN--BYCATCH TRIP LIMIT

Legal Authority: 16 USC 5101

Abstract: NMFS takes this action to modify management restrictions in

the Federal weakfish fishery in a manner consistent with the

Commission's Weakfish Management Board's (Board) approved Addendum IV

to Amendment 4 to the ISFMP for Weakfish. In short, the proposed

Federal regulatory change would decrease the incidental catch allowance

for weakfish in the EEZ in non-directed fisheries using smaller mesh

sizes, from 150 pounds to no more than 100 pounds per day or trip,

whichever is longer in duration. In addition it would impose a one fish

possession limit on recreational fishers.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 05/00/10

NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable

Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration, Room 13362, 1315

[[Page 21759]]

East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910

Phone: 301 713-2334

Fax: 301 713-0596

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AY41

_______________________________________________________________________

70. FRAMEWORK 21 TO THE ATLANTIC SEA SCALLOP FISHERY

MANAGEMENT PLAN

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: Framework Adjustment 21 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery

Management Plan (Framework 21) will set specifications for the 2010

scallop fishing year, which begins March 1, 2010, including adjustments

to the total allowable catch, days-at-sea (DAS) allocations, scallop

access area rotation schedule, and access area trip allocations. This

framework is for a single year because the Council is working on

Amendment 15, which will establish a process for implementing annual

catch limits that are required to be in place in 2011 for the scallop

fishery. Framework 21 must also comply with the requirements of the

March 14, 2008 (amended February 5, 2009), Biological Opinion completed

for the Atlantic Sea Scallop fishery, which requires the amount of

allocated scallop fishing effort by limited access DAS scallop vessels

that can be used in the Mid-Atlantic to be limited during the time of

year when sea turtle distribution overlaps with scallop fishing

activity. In addition, Framework 21 considers minor adjustments to the

limited access general category individual fishing quota program,

scheduled to be implemented March 1, 2010, and the observer set-aside

program.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 05/00/10

NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast

Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930

Phone: 978 281-9200

Fax: 978 281-9117

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AY43

_______________________________________________________________________

71. FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN AMENDMENT 95 FOR SKATES

MANAGEMENT IN THE GROUNDFISH FISHERIES OF THE BERING SEA AND ALEUTIAN

ISLANDS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 773 et seq; PL 108-447; PL 106-31; PL 106-554;

PL 109-479; PL 105-277; 16 USC 1801; 16 USC 1540

Abstract: NMFS proposes regulations to implement Amendment 95 to the

Fishery Management Plan for Groundfish of the Bering Sea and Aleutian

Islands Management Area (FMP). If approved, Amendment 95 would move

skates from the ``other species'' category to the target species list

in the FMP. By listing skates as target species, a directed fishery for

skates in the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands Management Area (BSAI)

may be managed to reduce the potential for overfishing skates. This

proposed action is intended to promote the goals and objectives of the

Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, the FMP, and

other applicable laws.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 05/00/10

NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/10

Final Action 11/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region,

Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802

Phone: 907 586-7221

Fax: 907 586-7249

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AY48

_______________________________________________________________________

72. AMENDMENT 2; FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR QUEEN

CONCH FISHERY OF PUERTO RICO AND U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS, AND AMENDMENT 5;

REEF FISH FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN OF PUERTO RICO AND U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: The Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act

(MSRA: Pub. L. 94-265), as amended through January 12, 2007, requires

the establishment of annual catch limits (ACLs) and accountability

measures (AMs) during 2010 for all species that are considered to be

overfished or undergoing overfishing. The present amendment is being

promulgated to meet those MSRA mandates as well as to establish

framework procedures with which to effect future changes to the

management plan and to restructure the fisheries management units for

grouper and snapper. Various alternatives are included in the draft

amendment, including maintenance of the status quo for each action as

well as various alternatives regarding the year-sequences used to

establish ALCs and the strategies to be employed to account for

overages and to respond to needed changes in management methods.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 05/00/10

NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region,

Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701

Phone: 727 570-5305

Fax: 727 570-5583

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AY55

_______________________________________________________________________

73. FISHERIES OFF WEST COAST STATES; PACIFIC COAST

GROUNDFISH FISHERY; INTERIM 2010 TRIBAL WHITING REGULATIONS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: NMFS takes this action to establish an interim 2010 tribal

whiting allocation, reporting and closure regulations, and refine

existing regulations on tribal whiting reapportionment.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 03/12/10 75 FR 11829

NPRM Comment Period End 04/02/10

Final Action 05/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

[[Page 21760]]

Agency Contact: Frank Lockhart, Program Analyst, Department of

Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand

Point Way NE., Seattle, WA 98115

Phone: 206 526-6142

Fax: 206 526-6736

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AY59

_______________________________________________________________________

74. FISHERIES OFF WEST COAST STATES; WEST COAST

SALMON FISHERIES; 2010 MANAGEMENT MEASURES

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1854

Abstract: This final rule implements the 2010 annual management

measures as approved by NMFS.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 05/00/10

NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Frank Lockhart, Program Analyst, Department of

Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand

Point Way NE., Seattle, WA 98115

Phone: 206 526-6142

Fax: 206 526-6736

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AY60

_______________________________________________________________________

75. MARINE MAMMAL PROTECTION ACT PERMIT REGULATION REVISIONS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1374

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is considering

changes to its implementing regulations (50 CFR 216) governing the

issuance of permits for scientific research and enhancement activities

under Section 104 of the Marine Mammal Protection Act and is soliciting

public comment to better inform the process. NMFS intends to streamline

and clarify general permitting requirements and requirements for

scientific research and enhancement permits, simplify procedures for

transferring marine mammal parts, possibly apply the General

Authorization (GA) to research activities involving Level A harassment

of non-endangered marine mammals, and implement a ``permit application

cycle'' for application submission and processing of all marine mammal

permits. NMFS intends to write regulations for marine mammal

photography permits and is considering whether this activity should be

covered by the GA.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM 09/13/07 72 FR 52339

ANPRM Comment Period Extended 10/15/07 72 FR 58279

ANPRM Comment Period End 11/13/07 72 FR 52339

ANPRM Comment Period End 12/13/07 72 FR 58279

NPRM 05/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Dr. Michael Payne, Fishery Biologist, Department of

Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, P.O. Box

21668, Juneau, AK 99802

Phone: 907 586-7235

Fax: 301 713-2521

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AV82

_______________________________________________________________________

76. TAKE AND IMPORT MARINE MAMMALS: PROPOSED RULE FOR TAKE OF MARINE

MAMMALS INCIDENTAL TO ROUTINE OPERATIONS OF 13 POWER GENERATING STATIONS

IN CENTRAL AND SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

Abstract: NMFS proposes to govern the take of marine mammals by Level A

harassment (injury) and mortality from 13 power generating stations

located on the coast of central and southern California incidental to

routine power plant operations for a period of five years, under the

authority of section 101(a)(5)(A) of the Marine Mammal Protection Act.

Under that authority NMFS also must prescribe mitigation, monitoring,

and reporting requirements in connection with take authorizations.

Incidental takings of marine mammals, including California sea lions,

harbor seals, and northern elephant seals can and do occur as a result

of the operation of circulating water systems (CWS) by the electrical

power generation plants located on the coast of central and southern

California described in the incidental take authorization applications.

These CWS are an integral part of these power stations that provide

continuous cooling water necessary for power generation and safety of

the facility. The typical location of entrainment occurs as water is

taken into the plant via submerged structures or canals. Intake

velocities may be strong enough to pull live animals into the plant,

particularly if they are actively seeking prey in the vicinity of

intake structures. Confinement within intake plumbing could lead to

confusion and panic, especially for young, immature animals. If the

animal is unable to escape, it could (1) Drown or become fatally

injured in transit between intake and large sedimentation basins within

the plants known as forebays; (2) survive the transit and succumb in

the forebay due to exhaustion, illness, or disease; or (3) survive the

transit and be rescued by plant personnel using cages specially

designed for such an activity. It is also likely that previously dead

animals may end up entrained as well.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 05/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Dr. Michael Payne, Fishery Biologist, Department of

Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, P.O. Box

21668, Juneau, AK 99802

Phone: 907 586-7235

Fax: 301 713-2521

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AW59

_______________________________________________________________________

77. REDUCE SEA TURTLE BYCATCH IN ATLANTIC TRAWL

FISHERIES

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq

Abstract: NMFS is initiating a rulemaking action to reduce injury and

mortality to endangered and threatened sea turtles resulting from

incidental take, or bycatch, in trawl fisheries in the Atlantic waters.

NMFS will likely address the size of the turtle excluder device (TED)

escape opening currently required in the summer flounder trawl fishery,

the definition of a summer flounder trawler and the use of TEDS in this

fishery; the use of TEDs in the croaker and weakfish flynet, whelk,

Atlantic sea scallop, and calico scallop trawl fisheries of the

Atlantic Ocean; and new seasonal and temporal

[[Page 21761]]

boundaries for TED requirements. In addition, this rule will address

the definition of the Gulf Area applicable to the shrimp trawl fishery

in the southeast Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico. The purpose of the rule

is to aid in the protection and recovery of listed sea turtle

populations by reducing mortality in trawl fisheries through the use of

TEDs.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 05/00/10

NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Alexis Gutierrez, Department of Commerce, National

Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver

Spring, MD 20910

Phone: 301 713-2322

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AY61

_______________________________________________________________________

Department of Commerce (DOC) Final Rule Stage

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

_______________________________________________________________________

NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE

____________________________________________________

78. CERTIFICATION OF NATIONS WHOSE FISHING VESSELS ARE ENGAGED IN IUU

FISHING OR BYCATCH OF PROTECTED LIVING MARINE RESOURCES

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq; 16 USC 1826d to 1826k

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is establishing

a process of identification and certification to address illegal,

unreported, or unregulated (IUU) activities and bycatch of protected

species in international fisheries. Nations whose fishing vessels

engage, or have been engaged, in IUU fishing or bycatch of protected

living marine resources would be identified in a biennial report to

Congress, as required under section 403 of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery

Conservation and Management Reauthorization Act (MSRA) of 2006. NMFS

would subsequently certify whether identified nations have taken

appropriate corrective action with respect to the activities of its

fishing vessels, as required under section 403 of MSRA.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM 06/11/07 72 FR 33436

ANPRM Comment Period End 07/05/07

NPRM 01/14/09 74 FR 2019

NPRM Comment Period End 05/14/09

Final Action 05/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Christopher Rogers, Division Chief, Department of

Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-

West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910

Phone: 301 713-9090

Fax: 301 713-9106

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AV51

_______________________________________________________________________

79. MAGNUSON-STEVENS FISHERY CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT REAUTHORIZATION

ACT (MSRA) ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW PROCEDURE

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: Section 107 of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and

Management Reauthorization Act (MSRA) (Pub. L. 109-479) requires NOAA

Fisheries to revise and update agency procedures for complying with the

National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) in the context of fishery

management actions. It further requires that NOAA Fisheries consult

with the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) and the Regional

Fishery Management Councils (Councils) and involve the public in the

development of the revised procedures. The MSRA provides that the

resulting procedures will be the sole environmental impact assessment

procedure for fishery management actions, and that they must conform to

the time lines for review and approval of fishery management plans and

plan amendments. They must also integrate applicable environmental

analytical procedures, including the time frames for public input, with

the procedure for the preparation and dissemination of fishery

management plans, plan amendments, and other actions taken or approved

pursuant to this Act in order to provide for timely, clear, and concise

analysis that is useful to decision makers and the public, reduce

extraneous paperwork, and effectively involve the public.

NOAA Fisheries is currently consulting with the councils, the public

and CEQ to develop a proposed procedure.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 05/14/08 73 FR 27998

NPRM Comment Period End 06/13/08

Final Action 05/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Steve Leathery, Department of Commerce, National

Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver

Spring, MD 20910

Phone: 301 713-2239

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AV53

_______________________________________________________________________

80. REVISE REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE NORTH PACIFIC GROUNDFISH OBSERVER

PROGRAM

Legal Authority: 118 Stat 110; 16 USC 773 et seq; 16 USC 1801 et seq;

16 USC 3631 et seq; PL 108-199

Abstract: This rulemaking revises Federal regulations relevant to

numerous administrative and procedural requirements applicable to

observer providers, observers, and industry participating in the North

Pacific Groundfish Observer Program. Specifically, this action would:

Modify the current permit issuance process so that observer and

observer provider permit issuance is a discretionary National Marine

Fisheries Service (NMFS) decision; amend current Federal regulations

addressing observer behavior involving drugs, alcohol, and physical

sexual conduct to remove NMFS oversight of observer behavior

[[Page 21762]]

that does not affect job performance; require that observer providers

submit policies related to these activities and continue to notify NMFS

upon learning of an incident; revise Federal regulations so that

observer providers are allowed to provide observers or technical staff

for purposes of exempted fishing permits, scientific research permits,

or other scientific research activities; revise the definition of

``fishing day'' in Federal regulations; require observer providers to

annually submit detailed economic information to NMFS; specify a date

by which observers who have collected data in the previous fishing year

would be required to be available for debriefing; and implement

housekeeping issues related to errors or clarifications in existing

regulations at 50 CFR 679.50.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 09/30/09 74 FR 50155

NPRM Comment Period End 10/31/09

Final Action 05/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region,

Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802

Phone: 907 586-7221

Fax: 907 586-7249

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AW24

_______________________________________________________________________

81. AMENDMENT 3 TO THE NORTHEAST SKATE COMPLEX FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: NMFS proposes regulations to implement measures in Amendment

3 to the Northeast Skate Complex Fishery Management Plan (Skate FMP).

Amendment 3 was developed by the New England Fishery Management Council

(Council) to rebuild overfished skate stocks (thorny and smooth skates)

and implement annual catch limits (ACLs) and accountability measures

(AMs) consistent with the requirements of the reauthorized Magnuson-

Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act. Amendment 3 would

establish an ACL and annual catch target (ACT) for the skate complex,

total allowable landings (TAL) for the skate wing and bait fisheries,

seasonal quotas for the bait fishery, reduced possession limits, in-

season possession limit triggers, and other measures to improve

management of the skate fisheries. This rule also includes skate

fishery specifications for fishing years (FY) 2010 through 2011.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 01/21/10 75 FR 3434

NPRM Comment Period End 02/22/10

Final Action 05/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast

Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930

Phone: 978 281-9200

Fax: 978 281-9117

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AW30

_______________________________________________________________________

82. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES; ATLANTIC SHARK MANAGEMENT

MEASURES

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: This rule evaluates the management measures for small coastal

sharks (SCS) based on the results of the 2007 SCS stock assessment.

This rulemaking could consider, among other things, commercial quotas

and trip limits, recreational minimum size and bag limits, time/area

closures, and the public display quota. In addition, this rule

implements a rebuilding plan for blacknose sharks. To the extent that

blacknose sharks are caught in fisheries that are not targeted highly

migratory species fisheries, the National Marine Fisheries Service

(NMFS) will work with the appropriate Regional Fishery Management

Council, Interstate Commission, and States to implement regulations

through their processes to rebuild blacknose sharks. This action is

necessary in light of recent stock assessments, which have determined

that blacknose sharks are overfished with overfishing occurring. As

needed, this rule may include others items to clarify existing

regulations.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice of Intent 05/07/08 73 FR 25665

Notice of Scoping Meetings and

Extension of Comment Period 07/02/08 73 FR 37932

Notice of Intent Comment Period

End 08/05/08

Notice of Intent Comment Period

Extended--Second Extension 10/29/08 73 FR 64307

Notice of Intent Comment Period

Extension End 10/31/08

Second Extension Comment Period

End 11/14/08

NPRM 07/24/09 74 FR 36892

NPRM Comment Period Extended 08/10/09 74 FR 39914

NPRM Comment Period End 09/22/09

NPRM Comment Period Extended End09/25/09

Final Action 05/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Margo Schulze-Haugen, Department of Commerce, National

Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver

Spring, MD 20910

Phone: 301 713-0234

Fax: 301 713-1917

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AW65

_______________________________________________________________________

83. AMENDMENT 31 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE REEF FISH

RESOURCES OF THE GULF OF MEXICO

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: In September 2008, NOAA's National Marine Fisheries Service

(NMFS) released a report based on observer data that indicated the

total number of loggerhead sea turtle takes by the eastern Gulf of

Mexico reef fish bottom longline fishery was much greater than that

authorized in the most recent biological opinion. In response, the Gulf

of Mexico Fishery Management Council (Council) requested NMFS take

emergency action to reduce the number of takes by the fishery during

the short term while the Council develops long-term measures in

Amendment 31. Measures being considered include: (1) Modifying baits;

(2) area, season, and depth restrictions;

[[Page 21763]]

(3) reducing effort through a longline endorsement program; and (4)

using observers or electronic monitoring to close the fishery once a

sea turtle take threshold has been met.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 01/15/10 75 FR 2469

NPRM Comment Period End 03/01/10

Final Action 05/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region,

Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701

Phone: 727 570-5305

Fax: 727 570-5583

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AX67

_______________________________________________________________________

84. SNAPPER-GROUPER FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN OF THE SOUTH ATLANTIC

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: This action would implement a prohibition on the harvest of

red snapper for 180 days to address overfishing of red snapper, through

interim measures.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 07/06/09 74 FR 31906

NPRM Comment Period End 08/05/09

Final Action 12/04/09 74 FR 63673

Final Action Effective 01/04/10

Extension of Final Action 06/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region,

Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701

Phone: 727 570-5305

Fax: 727 570-5583

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AX75

_______________________________________________________________________

85. FRAMEWORK ADJUSTMENT 44 AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR

THE NORTHEAST MULTISPECIES FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: Framework Adjustment 44 and Specifications will modify

management measures for the Northeast (NE) Multispecies Fishery

Management Plan (FMP) to make the FMP more precautionary, and implement

Annual Catch Limit (ACL) specifications for the fishery for fishing

years 2010, 2011, and 2012.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 02/01/10 75 FR 5016

NPRM Comment Period End 03/01/10

Final Action 05/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast

Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930

Phone: 978 281-9200

Fax: 978 281-9117

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AY29

_______________________________________________________________________

86. FY 2010 ATLANTIC DEEP-SEA RED CRAB SPECIFICATIONS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: NMFS takes this action to establish the target total

allowable catch and days-at-sea allocation for FY 2010 for the red crab

fishery.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 02/19/10 75 FR 7435

NPRM Comment Period End 03/22/10

Final Action 05/00/10

Final Action Effective 06/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast

Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930

Phone: 978 281-9200

Fax: 978 281-9117

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AY51

_______________________________________________________________________

87. PROVIDE REGULATIONS FOR PERMITS FOR CAPTURE, TRANSPORT, IMPORT, AND

EXPORT OF PROTECTED SPECIES FOR PUBLIC DISPLAY, AND FOR MAINTAINING A

CAPTIVE MARINE MAMMAL INVENTORY

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1372(c)

Abstract: This rule will revise and simplify criteria and procedures

specific to permits for taking, transporting, importing, and exporting

protected species for public display and provide convenient formats for

reporting marine mammal captive holdings and transports as required by

amendments made in 1994 to the Marine Mammal Protection Act.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 07/03/01 66 FR 35209

NPRM Comment Period Extended 08/22/01 66 FR 44109

NPRM Comment Period End 09/04/01

Comment Period Extended 11/02/01

Final Action 11/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Dr. Michael Payne, Fishery Biologist, Department of

Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, P.O. Box

21668, Juneau, AK 99802

Phone: 907 586-7235

Fax: 301 713-2521

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AH26

_______________________________________________________________________

88. PROTECTIVE REGULATIONS FOR KILLER WHALES IN THE NORTHWEST REGION

UNDER THE ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT AND MARINE MAMMAL PROTECTION ACT

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq; 16 USC 1531 to 1543

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is considering

whether to propose regulations to protect killer whales (Orcinus orca)

in the Pacific Northwest. The Southern Resident killer whale distinct

population segment (DPS) was listed as endangered under the Endangered

Species Act (ESA) on November 18,

[[Page 21764]]

2005 (70 FR 69903). In the final rule announcing the listing, NMFS

identified vessel effects, including direct interference and sound, as

a potential contributing factor in the recent decline of this

population. Both the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) and the ESA

prohibit take, including harassment, of killer whales, but these

statutes do not prohibit specified acts. NMFS is now considering

whether to propose regulations that would prohibit certain acts, under

our general authorities under the ESA and MMPA and their implementing

regulations. The Proposed Recovery Plan for Southern Resident killer

whales (71 FR 69101; November 29, 2006) includes as a management action

the evaluation of current guidelines and the need for regulations and/

or protected areas. The scope of this ANPR encompasses the activities

of any person or conveyance that may result in the unauthorized taking

of killer whales and/or that may cause detrimental individual-level and

population-level impacts. NMFS requests comments on whether--and if so,

what type of--conservation measures, regulations, and, if necessary,

other measures would be appropriate to protect killer whales from the

effects of these activities.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM 03/22/07 72 FR 13464

ANPRM Comment Period End 04/23/07

NPRM 07/29/09 74 FR 37674

NPRM Comment Period Extended 10/19/09 74 FR 53454

NPRM Comment Period End 10/27/09

NPRM Extended Comment Period End01/15/10

Final Rule 05/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: James H. Lecky, Director, Office of Protected

Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910

Phone: 301 713-2332

Fax: 301 427-2520

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AV15

_______________________________________________________________________

89. RULEMAKING TO ESTABLISH TAKE PROHIBITIONS FOR THE THREATENED

SOUTHERN DISTINCT POPULATION SEGMENT OF NORTH AMERICAN GREEN STURGEON

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 to 1543

Abstract: Under section 4(d) of the Federal Endangered Species Act

(ESA), the Secretary of Commerce is required to adopt such regulations

as he deems necessary and advisable for the conservation of species

listed as threatened. This rule would apply the prohibitions under ESA

section 9(a)(1)(A) through 9(a)(1)(G) for threatened Southern DPS green

sturgeon, but would include certain exceptions and exemptions from the

take prohibitions. Exceptions are included for certain scientific

research, emergency fish rescue, law enforcement, and habitat

restoration activities that meet the criteria specified in the

protective regulations under Section 4(d) of the ESA for Southern DPS

green sturgeon. Exemptions are included for state scientific research,

fisheries activities, and tribal activities conducted under NMFS

approved ESA 4(d) programs. Thus, take of Southern DPS fish may be

authorized under ESA section 7 or 10, or under an exception or

exemption to the take prohibitions if the activities are conducted in

compliance with NMFS criteria or NMFS-approved plans.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 05/21/09 74 FR 23822

NPRM Comment Period End 07/20/09

Final Action 05/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Marta Nammack, Office of Protected Resources,

Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910

Phone: 301 713-1401

Fax: 301 427-2523

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AV94

_______________________________________________________________________

90. TAKING AND IMPORTING MARINE MAMMALS; U.S. NAVAL SURFACE WARFARE

CENTER PANAMA CITY DIVISION MISSION ACTIVITIES

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

Abstract: On April 3, 2008, the National Marine Fisheries Service

(NMFS) received an application from the Navy requesting an

authorization for the take of 15 species/stocks of cetacean incidental

to the proposed mission activities in the Naval Surface Warfare Center

Panama City Division (NSWC PCD) study area over the course of 5 years.

These mission activities are classified as military readiness

activities. The purpose of the proposed mission activities is to

enhance NSWC PCD's capability and capacity to meet littoral and

expeditionary warfare requirements by providing Research, Development,

Test, and Evaluation (RDT&E) and in service engineering for

expeditionary maneuver warfare, operations in extreme environments,

mine warfare, maritime operations, and coastal operations. The Navy

states that these training activities may cause various impacts to

marine mammal species in the NSWC PCD study area. The Navy requests an

authorization to take individuals of these cetacean species by Level B

Harassment. Further, the Navy requests an authorization to take 1

individual each of bottlenose, Atlantic spotted, and pantropical

spotted dolphins per year by injury, as a result of the proposed

mission activities.

NMFS is issuing a proposed rule to govern the take of these marine

mammals by Level B harassment (behavior) and Level A harassment

(injury) incidental to the aforementioned mission activities in the

Naval NSWC PCD study area for a period of five years, under the

authority of section 101(a)(5)(A) of the Marine Mammal Protection Act.

Under that authority NMFS also must prescribe mitigation, monitoring,

and reporting requirements in connection with take authorizations.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 04/30/09 74 FR 20156

NPRM Comment Period End 06/01/09

Final Action 05/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Dr. Michael Payne, Fishery Biologist, Department of

Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, P.O. Box

21668, Juneau, AK 99802

Phone: 907 586-7235

Fax: 301 713-2521

[[Page 21765]]

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AW80

_______________________________________________________________________

91. RULE TO REVISE THE CRITICAL HABITAT DESIGNATION FOR THE ENDANGERED

LEATHERBACK SEA TURTLE

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service, announces a rule to

revise leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea) critical habitat under

the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended. The leatherback is

currently listed as endangered throughout its range, and critical

habitat consists of Sandy Point Beach and adjacent waters, St. Croix,

U.S. Virgin Islands. This rule would revise critical habitat to include

waters along the U.S. West Coast.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 01/05/10 75 FR 319

NPRM Comment Period Extension 02/19/10 75 FR 7434

NPRM Comment Period End 03/08/10

NPRM Comment Period Extension

End 04/19/10

Final Action 05/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Sara McNulty, Ecologist, Department of Commerce,

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West

Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910

Phone: 301 713-2322

RIN: 0648-AX06

_______________________________________________________________________

92. CRITICAL HABITAT DESIGNATION FOR COOK INLET BELUGA WHALE UNDER THE

ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) listed the Cook

Inlet beluga whale Distinct Population Segment as endangered under the

Endangered Species Act on October 17, 2009. NMFS is required to

designate critical habitat no later than one year after the publication

of a listing. NMFS intends to publish a proposed rule by October 17,

2009.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM 04/14/09 74 FR 17131

ANPRM Comment Period End 05/14/09

NPRM 12/02/09 74 FR 63080

NPRM Comment Period Extended 01/12/10 75 FR 1582

NPRM Comment Period End 02/01/10

Final Action 12/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Marta Nammack, Office of Protected Resources,

Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910

Phone: 301 713-1401

Fax: 301 427-2523

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AX50

_______________________________________________________________________

93. TAKING OF MARINE MAMMALS INCIDENTAL TO SPECIFIED ACTIVITIES; TAKING

MARINE MAMMALS INCIDENTAL TO TRAINING OPERATIONS CONDUCTED WITHIN THE

GULF OF MEXICO RANGE COMPLEX

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

Abstract: NMFS has received requests from the U.S. Navy (Navy) for

authorizations for the taking of marine mammals incidental to training

and operational activities conducted by the Navy's Atlantic Fleet

within Gulf of Mexico (GOMEX) Range Complex for the period beginning

December 3, 2009, and ending December 2, 2014. Pursuant to the

implementing regulations of the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA),

NMFS is proposing regulations to govern that take and requesting

information, suggestions, and comments on these proposed regulations.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 07/14/09 74 FR 33960

NPRM Comment Period End 08/13/09

Final Action 05/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: James H. Lecky, Director, Office of Protected

Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910

Phone: 301 713-2332

Fax: 301 427-2520

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AX86

_______________________________________________________________________

Department of Commerce (DOC) Long-Term Actions

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

_______________________________________________________________________

NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE

____________________________________________________

94. FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR REGULATING OFFSHORE MARINE AQUACULTURE

IN THE GULF OF MEXICO

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: The purpose of the amendment is to develop a regulatory

permitting process for regulating and promoting environmentally sound

and economically sustainable aquaculture in the Gulf Exclusive Economic

Zone. Management actions include: (1) Types of aquaculture permits

required; (2) duration aquaculture permits are effective; (3)

conditions for permit issuance; (4) species allowed for aquaculture;

(5) allowable aquaculture systems; (6) siting requirements and

conditions; (7) restricted access zones for aquaculture facilities; (8)

recordkeeping and reporting requirements; (9) biological reference

points and status determination criteria; and (10) framework procedures

for modifying status determination criteria and regulatory measures.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice of Availability 06/04/09 74 FR 26829

Notice of Availability Comment

Period End 08/03/09

NPRM To Be Determined

[[Page 21766]]

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree

Phone: 727 570-5305

Fax: 727 570-5583

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AS65

_______________________________________________________________________

95. AMENDMENT 5 TO THE ATLANTIC HERRING FISHERY

MANAGEMENT PLAN

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: Amendment 5 to the Atlantic Herring Fishery Management Plan

will consider: catch monitoring program; Interactions with river

herring; access by herring midwater trawl vessels in groundfish closed

areas; and interactions with the mackerel fishery.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 09/00/11

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast

Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930

Phone: 978 281-9200

Fax: 978 281-9117

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AY47

_______________________________________________________________________

Department of Commerce (DOC) Completed Actions

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

_______________________________________________________________________

96. FISHERIES IN THE WESTERN PACIFIC; PELAGIC FISHERIES; SQUID JIG

FISHERIES

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: This action designates pelagic squid as a management unit

species under the Western Pacific Pelagics Fishery Management Plan and

establishes permitting and reporting requirements.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice of Availability 08/11/08 73 FR 46581

NPRM 08/28/08 73 FR 50751

Notice Comment Period End 10/10/08

NPRM Comment Period End 10/14/08

Final Action 11/21/08 73 FR 70600

Collection of Information

Approval 09/04/09 74 FR 45756

Correction 03/03/10 75 FR 9531

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator,

Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and

Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI

96814

Phone: 808 944-2207

Fax: 808 973-2941

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AS71

_______________________________________________________________________

97. MODIFYING MAXIMUM RETAINABLE AMOUNTS (MRAS) FOR SELECTED GROUNDFISH

SPECIES CAUGHT BY THE NON-AMERICAN FISHING ACT TRAWL CATCHER PROCESSOR

SECTOR

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service issues this action to

amend regulations specifying the current interval of time allowed for

determining the maximum retainable amount (MRA) of selected groundfish

species that can be retained by non-American Fishery Act trawl catcher

processors. This action would change MRA regulations located at 50 CFR

679.20(e) that establish the calculation of MRAs for groundfish species

that are closed to directed fishing by increasing the interval of time

each vessel in this sector would have to retain the MRA specified in

regulation for several species in the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands.

This action is intended to promote the goals and objectives of the

Fishery Management Plan (FMP) for Groundfish of the Bering Sea and

Aleutian Islands Management Area.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 02/13/09 74 FR 7209

NPRM Comment Period End 03/16/09

Final Rule 12/10/09 74 FR 65503

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region,

Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802

Phone: 907 586-7221

Fax: 907 586-7249

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AV32

_______________________________________________________________________

98. INITIAL IMPLEMENTATION OF THE WESTERN AND CENTRAL PACIFIC FISHERIES

CONVENTION IMPLEMENTATION ACT

Legal Authority: 44 USC 3501 et seq; PL 109-479

Abstract: This action will implement, in part, the Western and Central

Pacific Fisheries Convention (WCPFC) Implementation Act, which

authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to promulgate regulations needed

to carry out the obligations of the United States under the WCPFC. The

action will include regulations applicable to owners and operators of

U.S. vessels used to fish for highly migratory fish stocks in the

western and central Pacific Ocean, possibly including requirements to,

among others, obtain authorization to fish, carry position-fixing

transmitters as part of a vessel monitoring system, accommodate

observers from a regional observer program, report fishing activity,

accept boarding and inspection by authorized inspectors of other

members of the Commission, and prohibit transshipping at sea from purse

seine vessels.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 05/22/09 74 FR 23965

NPRM Comment Period End 06/22/09

Final Action 01/21/10 75 FR 3335

Correction 02/19/10 75 FR 7361

[[Page 21767]]

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Dr. Charles Karnella, Pacific Islands Area Office,

Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration, Suite 1110, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI

96814-4700

Phone: 808 973-2985

Fax: 808 973-2941

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AV63

_______________________________________________________________________

99. AMENDMENT 15B TO THE SOUTH ATLANTIC FISHERY MANAGEMENT COUNCIL

SNAPPER GROUPER FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: Amendment 15B assesses the practicability of prohibiting the

sale of recreationally caught fish; assesses the practicability of

changes to the renewal period on commercial snapper grouper permits;

assesses the practicability of allowing one-to-one transfers of

commercial permits from an individual to a family-held corporation;

implements a plan to monitor and assess bycatch; implements measures to

minimize the impacts of incidental take on sea turtles and smalltooth

sawfish; updates management reference points for golden tilefish; and

defines allocation for snowy grouper and black sea bass.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice of Availability 06/04/09 74 FR 26827

NPRM 06/30/09 74 FR 31225

Comment Period End 08/03/09

NPRM Comment Period End 08/04/09

Final Action 11/16/09 74 FR 58902

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region,

Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701

Phone: 727 570-5305

Fax: 727 570-5583

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AW12

_______________________________________________________________________

100. FISHERIES IN THE WESTERN PACIFIC; WESTERN PACIFIC PELAGIC

FISHERIES; AMENDMENT 18 TO THE PELAGICS FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN;

SHALLOW-SET LONGLINE SWORDFISH FISHERY

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: Amendment 18 removes the annual limit on the number of

fishing gear deployments (sets) for the Hawaii-based pelagic longline

fishery. The amendment also revises the current maximum limit on the

number of physical interactions that occur annually between loggerhead

sea turtles and vessels registered for use under Hawaii longline

limited access permits while shallow-setting. Other measures currently

applicable to the fishery remain unchanged. Amendment 18 is intended to

increase opportunities for the shallow-set fishery to sustainably

harvest swordfish and other fish species, without jeopardizing the

continued existence of sea turtles and other protected resources.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice of Availability 03/18/09 74 FR 11518

Notice of Availability Comment

Period End 05/18/09

NPRM 06/19/09 74 FR 29158

NPRM Comment Period End 08/03/09

Final Action 12/10/09 74 FR 65460

Correction--Final Action 01/08/10 75 FR 1023

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator,

Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and

Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI

96814

Phone: 808 944-2207

Fax: 808 973-2941

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AW49

_______________________________________________________________________

101. HALIBUT CHARTER VESSEL MORATORIUM

Legal Authority: 16 USC 773 to 773k

Abstract: This action implements a moratorium on the entry of

additional charter vessels into the guided sport fishery for Pacific

halibut in waters of International Pacific Halibut Commission

regulatory areas 2C (Southeast Alaska) and 3A (Central Gulf of Alaska).

This moratorium limits the number of charter vessels that may

participate in the guided sport fishery for halibut in these areas.

NMFS would issue a moratorium permit to a licensed charter vessel

fishing business owner based on his or her past participation in the

charter vessel fishery for halibut and to a Community Quota Entity

representing specific rural communities. All moratorium permit holders

would be subject to limits on the number of permits they could hold and

on the number of charter vessel anglers who could catch and retain

halibut on the permitted charter vessel. This action is proposed to

achieve the halibut fishery management goals of the North Pacific

Fishery Management Council. The intended effect is to curtail growth of

fishing capacity in the guided sport fishery for halibut.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 04/21/09 74 FR 18178

NPRM Comment Period End 06/05/09

Final Rule 01/05/10 75 FR 554

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region,

Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802

Phone: 907 586-7221

Fax: 907 586-7249

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AW92

_______________________________________________________________________

102. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES; 2009 NORTH AND SOUTH ATLANTIC

COMMERCIAL QUOTAS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: This rule establishes the 2009 fishing season quotas for

North and South Atlantic swordfish based on recent updated landings

information and recommendations from the 2008 annual meeting of the

International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas

(ICCAT). This rule is necessary to ensure that current swordfish quotas

account for underharvests and reserve transfer from the 2008 fishing

year, consistent with regulations at 50 CFR part 635 and ICCAT

recommendations that establish

[[Page 21768]]

the U.S. North and South Atlantic swordfish allocations. This rule may

also include other minor regulatory clarifications.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 08/05/09 74 FR 39032

NPRM Comment Period End 09/04/09

Final Rule 12/16/09 74 FR 66585

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Margo Schulze-Haugen, Department of Commerce, National

Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver

Spring, MD 20910

Phone: 301 713-0234

Fax: 301 713-1917

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AX07

_______________________________________________________________________

103. AMENDMENT 29 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR REEF FISH RESOURCES

OF THE GULF OF MEXICO

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: Grouper and tilefish species in the Gulf of Mexico are

managed under the reef fish fishery management plan. Past management

practices under the plan have contributed to overcapitalization in

these fisheries, which the Council now seeks to address. The amendment

creates an individual fishing quota (IFQ) program to further control

effort in the commercial grouper and tilefish fisheries in the Gulf of

Mexico. The IFQ program was supported by over 80 percent of all

eligible fishermen voting in a referendum for the IFQ program. The

proposed rule would implement the IFQ program, establish design

elements for the program, and allow consolidation of commercial permit

landings history through permit stacking.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 04/30/09 74 FR 20134

NPRM Comment Period End 06/15/09

Final Rule 08/31/09 74 FR 44732

Supplemental NPRM 12/10/09 74 FR 65500

Supplemental NPRM Comment Period

End 01/11/10

Second Final Rule 03/01/10 75 FR 9116

Final Rule Effective 03/31/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region,

Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701

Phone: 727 570-5305

Fax: 727 570-5583

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AX39

_______________________________________________________________________

104. WESTERN AND CENTRAL PACIFIC FISHERIES FOR HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES;

IMPLEMENTATION OF THE LONGLINE CATCH LIMITS ADOPTED AT THE FIFTH SESSION

OF THE WESTERN AND CENTRAL PACIFIC FISHERIES COMMISSION

Legal Authority: 16 USC 6901 et seq

Abstract: This rule implements the decisions adopted at the Fifth

Session of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission

(Commission) to reduce or otherwise control the fishing mortality rate

from longline fishing of bigeye tuna and potentially other highly

migratory fish species in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean.

Pursuant to the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Convention

Implementation Act, the Secretary of Commerce is authorized to

implement regulations to carry out the obligations of the United States

under the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Convention

(Convention), including the implementation of Commission decisions. At

its Fifth Regular Session, in December 2008, the Commission adopted

specific catch limits in longline fisheries for certain highly

migratory fish species in the Convention's area of application for

2009, 2010, and 2011. This rule fulfills the international obligations

of the United States regarding these catch limits. Moreover, this rule

could establish a framework for implementing future Commission

decisions of a similar nature.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 07/08/09 74 FR 32521

NPRM Comment Period End 08/07/09

Final Rule 12/07/09 74 FR 63999

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Dr. Charles Karnella, Pacific Islands Area Office,

Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration, Suite 1110, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI

96814-4700

Phone: 808 973-2985

Fax: 808 973-2941

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AX59

_______________________________________________________________________

105. FISHERIES OFF WEST COAST STATES; PACIFIC COAST GROUNDFISH FISHERY;

DATA COLLECTION FOR THE TRAWL RATIONALIZATION PROGRAM

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: NMFS plans to collect data to support implementation of a

future trawl rationalization program under the Pacific Coast Groundfish

Fishery Management Plan (FMP). NMFS may collect ownership information

from all potential participants in the trawl rationalization program.

In addition, NMFS is notifying potential participants on notice that

the agency intends to use the Pacific States Marine Fisheries

Commission's Pacific Fisheries Information Network (PacFIN) and the

NMFS, Northwest Fisheries Science Center's Pacific whiting observer

(NORPAC) databases to determine initial allocation of quota share for

the trawl rationalization program.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 10/16/09 74 FR 47545

NPRM Comment Period End 10/16/09

Final Action 01/29/10 75 FR 4684

Final Action Effective 03/01/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Frank Lockhart, Program Analyst, Department of

Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand

Point Way NE., Seattle, WA 98115

Phone: 206 526-6142

Fax: 206 526-6736

[[Page 21769]]

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AX98

_______________________________________________________________________

106. AMENDMENT 10 TO THE ATLANTIC MACKEREL, SQUID, AND BUTTERFISH

FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: The purpose of Amendment 10 is to: (1) Develop a rebuilding

program that allows the butterfish stock to rebuild in the shortest

amount of time possible (but not to exceed ten years) and permanently

protects the long-term health and stability of the rebuilt stock; (2)

minimize bycatch and the fishing mortality of unavoidable bycatch, to

the extent practicable, in mackerel, squid, and butterfish (MSB)

fisheries; and (3) minimize the race to fish and promote efficient use

of fishing capital in Loligo and Illex fisheries while providing a

means for the industry to proactively engage in resource governance and

to provide greater flexibility in developing management measures that

fit localized needs through the development of sectors in the Loligo

and Illex fisheries.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice of Availability 07/13/09 74 FR 33986

NPRM 09/03/09 74 FR 45597

NPRM Comment Period End 10/19/09

Final Action 03/11/10 75 FR 11441

Final Action Effective 04/12/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast

Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930

Phone: 978 281-9200

Fax: 978 281-9117

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AY00

_______________________________________________________________________

107. FISHING RESTRICTIONS IN THE LONGLINE AND PURSE SEINE FISHERIES IN

THE EASTERN PACIFIC OCEAN IN 2009, 2010, AND 2011

Legal Authority: 16 USC 951-961 ; 16 USC 971 et seq

Abstract: NMFS is proposing regulations under the Tuna Conventions Act

of 1950 to implement a resolution adopted by the Inter-American

Tropical Tuna Commission (IATTC Resolution C-09-01). That resolution

requires that the United States restrict the catch of bigeye tuna in

the longline fishery and the effort in the purse seine fishery in the

eastern Pacific Ocean in each of the years 2009, 2010, and 2011 to

prevent overfishing of bigeye and yellowfin tuna. First, NMFS would

implement a 500 metric ton (mt) catch limit on bigeye tuna caught by

longline vessels greater than 24 meters in length in the IATTC

Convention Area in 2009, 2010, and 2011. Second, NMFS would prohibit

purse seine vessels of class size 4-6 (carrying capacity greater than

182 metric tons) from fishing for yellowfin, bigeye, and skipjack tunas

in the IATTC Convention Area for a period of 59 days in 2009, 62 days

in 2010, and 73 days in 2011. Notwithstanding this closure, purse seine

vessels of class size 4 (between 182 and 272 mt carrying capacity) may

make a single fishing trip of up to 30 days during the closed period.

Third, class size 4-6 purse seine vessels would be prohibited from

fishing for yellowfin, bigeye, and skipjack tunas between 96[deg] and

100[deg] W. longitude and between 4[deg] N. and 3[deg] S. latitude from

September 29 to through October 29 for 2009, 2010, and 2011. And

lastly, class size 4-6 purse seine vessels would continue to be

required to retain all tuna caught unless it is unfit for human

consumption for reasons other than size (which continues a long-term

requirement).

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 10/19/09 74 FR 53455

NPRM Comment Period End 11/09/09

Final Rule 11/23/09 74 FR 61046

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Heidi Hermsmeyer, Department of Commerce, National

Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 501 West Ocean Boulevard, Long

Beach, CA 90802

Phone: 562 980-4036

Fax: 562 980-4047

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AY08

_______________________________________________________________________

108. 2010 ATLANTIC MACKEREL, SQUID, AND BUTTERFISH FISHERY

SPECIFICATIONS AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: NMFS would implement specifications for the 2010 fishing year

for Atlantic mackerel, squid, and butterfish (MSB). The intent of this

action is to fulfill this requirement and to promote the development

and conservation of the MSB resources.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 11/12/09 74 FR 58234

NPRM Comment Period End 12/14/09

Final Action 02/03/10 75 FR 5537

Final Action Effective 03/05/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast

Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930

Phone: 978 281-9200

Fax: 978 281-9117

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AY13

_______________________________________________________________________

109. 2010 PACIFIC HALIBUT FISHERIES; CATCH SHARING

PLAN

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: NMFS takes this action to approve and implement changes to

the Pacific Halibut Catch Sharing Plan (Plan) for the International

Pacific Halibut Commission's (IPHC or Commission) regulatory Area 2A

off Washington, Oregon, and California (Area 2A). NMFS proposes to

implement the portions of the Plan and management measures that are not

implemented through the IPHC, which includes tribal regulations and the

sport fishery allocations and management measures for Area 2A. These

actions are intended to enhance the conservation of Pacific halibut, to

provide greater angler opportunity where available, and to protect

yelloweye rockfish and other overfished groundfish species from

incidental catch in the halibut fisheries.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 02/04/10 75 FR 5745

[[Page 21770]]

NPRM Comment Period End 02/19/10

Final Action 03/18/10 75 FR 13024

Final Action Effective 04/19/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Barry Thom, Fishery Biologist, Office of Protected

Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910

Phone: 301 713-1401

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AY31

_______________________________________________________________________

110. HARBOR PORPOISE TAKE REDUCTION PLAN REGULATIONS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service is taking this action

to reduce the number of harbor porpoise taken in sink gillnet fisheries

in the Gulf of Maine and Mid-Atlantic. The Harbor Porpoise Take

Reduction Plan of 1999 implemented measures to reduce the incidental

capture of harbor porpoises in sink gillnets to below the stock's

Potential Biological Removal level (PBR). Measures included management

areas in which deterrent devices (pingers) are required on gillnets;

gear modifications; and seasonal closures. Between 2001 and 2005,

incidental takes of harbor porpoise showed an increasing trend, and

currently takes exceed PBR. This action would implement measures

developed through discussions with the Harbor Porpoise Take Reduction

Team, which was reconvened in 2007, when it was clear that existing

measures were not sufficient to keep porpoise bycatch to below PBR. For

the Gulf of Maine, this action would expand pinger use in Massachusetts

Bay to include November; establish Stellwagen Bank Management Area,

requiring pingers from November-May; establish Coastal Gulf of Maine

Consequence Closure Area and require closure in October and November

only if, after the most current two years, the average bycatch rate

exceeds the trigger rate of .031, identified from observed compliant

boats from the Mid-Coast, Massachusetts Bay, and Stellwagen Bank

Management Areas; create Southern New England Management Area (includes

current Cape Cod South Management Area); require pingers from December-

May; establish Cape Cod South Expansion and Eastern Cape Cod

Consequence Closure Areas; and require closure from February-April only

if, after the most current two years, the average bycatch rate exceeds

the trigger rate of 0.023, identified from observed compliant vessels

fishing in the Southern New England Management Area. For the Mid

Atlantic, this action would establish Mudhole South Management Area;

close from February 1-March 15; and modify the tie-down requirement.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 07/21/09 74 FR 36058

Correction 08/10/09 74 FR 39910

NPRM Comment Period End 08/20/09

Final Action 02/19/10 75 FR 7383

Final Action Delay of Effective

Date 03/17/10 75 FR 12698

Final Action Effective 03/22/10

Final Action Delay of Effective

Date End 09/15/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Melissa Andersen, Department of Commerce, National

Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver

Spring, MD 20910

Phone: 301 713-2322

Fax: 301 713-2521

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AW51

_______________________________________________________________________

Department of Commerce (DOC) Proposed Rule Stage

Patent and Trademark Office (PTO)

_______________________________________________________________________

111. REVISION OF USPTO FEES FOR FISCAL YEAR 2011

Legal Authority: 35 USC 41; 35 USC 119 and 120; 35 USC 132(b) and 376;

PL 109-383; PL 110-116; PL 110-137; PL 110-149; PL 110-161; PL 110-5;

PL 110-92

Abstract: The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is

taking this action to adjust certain patent and trademark fee amounts

set in the aggregate to recover the estimated cost to the USPTO for

processing activities and services and materials relating to patents

and trademarks, respectively, including proportionate shares of the

administrative costs of the USPTO.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 05/00/10

NPRM Comment Period End 07/00/10

Final Action 10/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Walter Schlueter, Budget Analyst--Fees and Forecasting,

Department of Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, P.O. Box 1450,

Alexandria, VA 22314

Phone: 571 272-6299

Fax: 571 273-6299

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AC43

_______________________________________________________________________

112. REVISION OF USPTO FEES FOR FISCAL YEAR 2012

Legal Authority: 35 USC 41; 35 USC 119 and 120; 35 USC 132(b) and 376;

PL 109-383; PL 110-116; PL 110-137; PL 110-149; PL 110-161; PL 110-5;

PL 110-92

Abstract: The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is

taking this action to adjust certain patent and trademark fee amounts

set in the aggregate to recover the estimated cost to the USPTO for

processing activities and services and materials relating to patents

and trademarks, respectively, including proportionate shares of the

administrative costs of the USPTO.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 12/00/10

NPRM Comment Period End 02/00/11

Final Action 06/00/11

Final Action Effective 07/00/11

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

[[Page 21771]]

Agency Contact: Walter Schlueter, Budget Analyst--Fees and Forecasting,

Department of Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, P.O. Box 1450,

Alexandria, VA 22314

Phone: 571 272-6299

Fax: 571 273-6299

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AC44

_______________________________________________________________________

Department of Commerce (DOC) Final Rule Stage

Patent and Trademark Office (PTO)

_______________________________________________________________________

113. INTERIM INCREASE ON PATENT FEES FOR FISCAL YEAR

2011

Legal Authority: 35 USC 41; 35 USC 119 and 120; 35 USC 132(b); 35 USC

376; PL 109-383; PL 110-116; PL 110-137; PL 110-149; PL 110-161; PL

110-5; PL 110-92

Abstract: The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is

proposing an interim increase on certain patent fees to fund the

requirements for putting the USPTO on a sustainable path to fund agency

operations, reduce patent inventory and pendency, and invest in

information technology.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action 10/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Walter Schlueter, Budget Analyst--Fees and Forecasting,

Department of Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, P.O. Box 1450,

Alexandria, VA 22314

Phone: 571 272-6299

Fax: 571 273-6299

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AC42

_______________________________________________________________________

Department of Commerce (DOC) Completed Actions

Patent and Trademark Office (PTO)

_______________________________________________________________________

114. EXAMINATION OF PATENT APPLICATIONS THAT INCLUDE CLAIMS CONTAINING

ALTERNATIVE LANGUAGE

Legal Authority: 35 USC 2(b)(2)

Abstract: The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (Office) is considering

revising the rules of practice to address Markush-type and other claims

written so as to claim an invention in the alternative. The search and

examination of Markush-type and other claims written in the alternative

generally consume a disproportionate amount of Office resources as

compared to other types of claims, because these claims can encompass

multiple independent and distinct inventions and determining the

patentability of such a claim may require a separate examination of

each of the alternatives within the claim. The Office anticipates that

requiring applicants who choose this claim-drafting format to ensure a

certain degree of relatedness among the members of a Markush group or

the alternatives presented in the claims will allow the Office to do a

better, more thorough, and reliable examination of Markush-type and

other claims written in the alternative.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM 08/10/07 72 FR 44992

NPRM Comment Period End 10/09/07

Initial Regulatory Flexibility

Analysis Comment Request 03/10/08 73 FR 12679

NPRM Comment Period End 04/09/08

Withdrawn 01/25/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr, Acting Associate Commissioner for

Patent Examination Policy, Department of Commerce, Patent and Trademark

Office, P.O. Box 1450, Alexandria, VA 22313

Phone: 571 272-8800

Fax: 571 273-0125

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AC00

_______________________________________________________________________

115. FISCAL YEAR 2009 REVISION OF REQUEST FOR CONTINUED EXAMINATION, 18-

MONTH PUBLICATION, AND OTHER MISCELLANEOUS COST-RECOVERY PATENT FEES

Legal Authority: 35 USC 2(b)(2); 35 USC 41(d); 35 USC 132(b)

Abstract: The USPTO is taking this action to revise the rules of

practice to adjust the fee or set a fee for certain processes and

services for which the USPTO is required to set a cost-recovery fee.

The USPTO is specifically adjusting the fee for a request for continued

examination, 18-month publication, and a certificate of correction

(applicant's mistake) fee, and set a fee for requesting a corrected

republication of a patent application publication. The rules of

practice currently do not set a fee, or do not set a fee that recovers

the USPTO's costs, for these processes or services. The USPTO is

adjusting or setting these fee amounts such that they more accurately

reflect the Office costs for these processes or services.

Timetable:

________________________________________________________________________

Action Date FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn 01/25/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr, Acting Associate Commissioner for

Patent Examination Policy, Department of Commerce, Patent and Trademark

Office, P.O. Box 1450, Alexandria, VA 22313

Phone: 571 272-8800

Fax: 571 273-0125

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AC29

[FR Doc. 2010-8930 Filed 04-23-10; 8:45 am]

BILLING CODE 3510-12-S