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Federal RegisterMay 11, 2009
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Part IV
Department of Commerce
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Semiannual Regulatory Agenda
[[Page 21888]]
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 2009 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 or 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 2008 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 2009 regulatory agenda includes
regulatory activities that are expected to be conducted during the
period April 1, 2009, through March 31, 2010.
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 Jennifer K. Nist, Chief Counsel for
Regulations, 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 8, 2009, the Office of
Management and Budget issued guidelines and procedures for the
preparation and publication of the spring 2009 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 Unified Agenda published on the Internet. In addition, for
fall editions of the Agenda, the entireRegulatory 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.) (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 2009 regulatory agenda follows.
Michael A. Levitt,
Assistant General Counsel for Legislation and Regulation.
[[Page 21889]]
International Trade Administration--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identifier
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
56 Commercial Availability of Fabric and Yarn............................................ 0625-AA59
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identifier
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
57 Maximize Retention and Monitoring Program in the Shore-Based Pacific Whiting Fishery.. 0648-AR63
58 Amendment 1 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Tilefish Fishery................... 0648-AS25
59 Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS); Reducing Sea Turtle Takes.................... 0648-AS49
60 Fishery Management Plan for Regulating Offshore Marine Aquaculture in the Gulf of 0648-AS65
Mexico................................................................................
61 American Lobster Fishery; Fishing Effort Control Measures to Complement Interstate 0648-AT31
Lobster Management Recommendations by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission.
62 Amendment 10 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fishery Management Plan.. 0648-AT58
63 South Atlantic Fishery Ecosystem Plan Comprehensive Amendment......................... 0648-AV31
64 Certification of Nations Whose Fishing Vessels Are Engaged in IUU Fishing or Bycatch 0648-AV51
of Protected Living Marine Resources..................................................
65 Collection and Use of Tax Identification Numbers From Holders of and Applicants for 0648-AV76
National Marine Fisheries Service Permits.............................................
66 Amendment 17 to the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council Snapper Grouper Fishery 0648-AW11
Management Plan.......................................................................
67 Amendment 15B to the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council Snapper Grouper Fishery 0648-AW12
Management Plan.......................................................................
68 Amendment 2 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Queen Conch Fishery of Puerto Rico 0648-AW15
and the U.S. Virgin Islands...........................................................
69 Amendment 7 to the South Atlantic Shrimp Fishery Management Plan...................... 0648-AW19
70 Marine Mammal Protection Act Stranding Regulation Revisions........................... 0648-AW22
71 Revise Regulations Governing the North Pacific Groundfish Observer Program............ 0648-AW24
72 Amendment 3 to the Northeast Skate Complex Fishery Management Plan.................... 0648-AW30
73 Fisheries in the Western Pacific; Western Pacific Pelagic Fisheries; Amendment 18 to 0648-AW49
the Pelagics Fishery Management Plan; Shallow-Set Longline Swordfish Fishery..........
74 Fisheries in the Western Pacific; Compensation to Northwestern Hawaiian Islands 0648-AW52
Bottomfish and Lobster Fishermen Due to Fishery Closure in the Papahanaumokuakea
Marine National Monument..............................................................
75 Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Atlantic Shark Management Measures................. 0648-AW65
76 Amendment 4 to the Atlantic Herring Fishery Management Plan........................... 0648-AW75
77 Halibut Charter Vessel Moratorium..................................................... 0648-AW92
78 Allowable Modifications to the Turtle Excluder Device (TED) Requirements.............. 0648-AW93
79 Regulatory Amendment (No. 3) to Correct and Clarify Amendment 13 and Subsequent 0648-AW95
Frameworks of the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan......................
80 Amendment 11 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, Butterfish Fishery Management Plan...... 0648-AX05
81 Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; 2009 North and South Atlantic Commercial Quotas.... 0648-AX07
82 Amendment 29 to the Fishery Management Plan for Reef Fish Resources of the Gulf of 0648-AX39
Mexico................................................................................
83 Amendment 85 to the Fishery Management Plan for Groundfish of the Gulf of Alaska...... 0648-AX42
84 Amendment 30 to the Fishery Management Plan for Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands King 0648-AX47
and Tanner Crabs Arbitration Regulations..............................................
85 U.S. Citizen Definition............................................................... 0648-AX52
86 2009 Specifications and Management Measures for the Spiny Dogfish Fishery Management 0648-AX57
Plan..................................................................................
87 Reef Fish Amendment 31 To Reduce the Number of Loggerhead Sea Turtles by the Eastern 0648-AX67
Gulf of Mexico Bottom Longline Fishery................................................
88 2009 Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Recreational Management Measures....... 0648-AX69
89 Reef Fish Amendment 30B to the Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish Resources of 0648-AX73
the Gulf of Mexico: Measure to Establish the Edges Seasonal-Area Closure..............
90 Protective Regulations for Killer Whales in the Northwest Region Under the Endangered 0648-AV15
Species Act and Marine Mammal Protection Act..........................................
91 Marine Mammal Protection Act Permit Regulation Revisions.............................. 0648-AV82
92 Rulemaking To Establish Take Prohibitions for the Threatened Southern Distinct 0648-AV94
Population Segment of North American Green Sturgeon...................................
93 Harbor Porpoise Take Reduction Plan Measures.......................................... 0648-AW51
94 Rule to Revise Leatherback Critical Habitat........................................... 0648-AX06
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[[Page 21890]]
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identifier
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
95 Revisions to the Scientific Research Activity, Exempted Fishing, and Exempted 0648-AR78
Educational Activity Regulations......................................................
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 Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Reauthorization Act (MSRA) 0648-AV53
Environmental Review Procedure........................................................
99 American Lobster Data Collection and Broodstock Protection Measures................... 0648-AV77
100 Establish a Permit Fee Collection Framework Under the Fishery Management Plan for U.S. 0648-AW50
West Coast Fisheries for Highly Migratory Species (HMS FMP)...........................
101 Amendment 16 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Snapper Grouper Fishery of the 0648-AW64
South Atlantic Region.................................................................
102 Amendment 27 to the Fishery Management Plan for Bering Sea/Aleutian Islands King and 0648-AW73
Tanner Crabs..........................................................................
103 Amendment 28 to the Fishery Management Plan for Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands King 0648-AW97
and Tanner Crab.......................................................................
104 Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS); 2009 Atlantic Bluefin Tuna Quota 0648-AX12
Specifications and Management Measures................................................
105 Amendment 92 to the Fishery Management Plan for Bering Sea/Aleutian Islands Groundfish 0648-AX14
and Amendment 82 to the Fishery Management Plan for Gulf of Alaska Groundfish.........
106 One-Fish Daily Bag Limit for the Guided Sport Charter Vessel Fishery for Halibut in 0648-AX17
Regulatory Area 2C....................................................................
107 Amendment 90 to the Fishery Management Plan for Bering Sea/Aleutian Islands Groundfish 0648-AX25
and Amendment 78 to the Fishery Management Plan for Gulf of Alaska Groundfish.........
108 2009 Atlantic Bluefish Specifications................................................. 0648-AX49
109 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.............................................................................
110 Atlantic Pelagic Longline Take Reduction Plan......................................... 0648-AV65
111 Designation of Critical Habitat for the Endangered U.S. Distinct Population Segment 0648-AV74
(DPS) of Guided Smalltooth Sawfish....................................................
112 Rulemaking to Designate Critical Habitat for the Gulf of Maine Distinct Population 0648-AW77
Segment of Atlantic Salmon............................................................
113 Rulemaking to Designate Critical Habitat for the Threatened Southern Distinct 0648-AX04
Population Segment of North American Green Sturgeon...................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identifier
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
114 Require Mandatory Observer Coverage in the At-Sea Processing Sector of the Whiting 0648-AK26
Fishery...............................................................................
115 Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands Amendment 73 and Gulf of Alaska Amendment 77 0648-AU20
Groundfish Fishery Management Plans to Revise Management Authority of Dark Rockfish...
116 Amendment 14 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Snapper-Grouper Fishery of the 0648-AU28
South Atlantic Region.................................................................
117 Framework 4 to the Fishery Management Plan for Monkfish............................... 0648-AU34
118 Amendment 15 to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery Management Plan. 0648-AU36
119 Approval of Operations Plan for the Georges Bank Fixed Gear Sector for 2007-2008...... 0648-AU61
120 Restrictions for 2007 Purse Seine and Longline Fisheries in the Eastern Tropical 0648-AU79
Pacific Ocean.........................................................................
121 Revision to Allowable Bycatch Reduction Devices for the Gulf of Mexico Shrimp Fishery. 0648-AV14
122 Fisheries in the Western Pacific; Bottomfish and Seamount Groundfish Fisheries; 0648-AV28
Management Measures for the Northern Mariana Islands..................................
123 Guidance for Annual Catch Limits and Accountability Measures to End Overfishing....... 0648-AV60
124 Rule to Implement a Minimum Possession Size Limit on Spiny Lobster (Panulirus argus).. 0648-AV61
125 General Provisions for Domestic Fisheries; Specifications for Boarding Ladders........ 0648-AV78
126 Gulf Reef Fish Amendment 30B.......................................................... 0648-AV80
127 Amendment 3 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Spiny Lobster Fishery of Puerto 0648-AV98
Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands and Amendment 4 to the Reef Fish Fishery Management
Plan of Puerto Rico and the U.S.......................................................
128 Amendment 15 to the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery Management Plan: Limited Entry 0648-AW08
Program for the Pacific Whiting Fishery...............................................
129 Revise Maximum Retainable Amounts (MRA) of Groundfish in the Gulf of Alaska Arrowtooth 0648-AW40
Flounder Fishery......................................................................
130 Revisions to the Pollock Trip Limit Regulations in the Gulf of Alaska................. 0648-AW54
131 Amendment to the Bottlenose Dolphin Take Reduction Plan............................... 0648-AW68
132 Referendum Procedures for a Potential Gulf of Mexico Grouper and Tilefish Individual 0648-AW85
Fishing Quota (IFQ) Program...........................................................
[[Page 21891]]
133 Interim Action to Reduce Fishing Mortality and Maintain Stock Rebuilding; Northeast 0648-AW87
Multispecies Fishery..................................................................
134 Seabird Avoidance Requirements Revisions for Hook-and-Line Vessels in International 0648-AW94
Pacific Halibut Commission Regulatory Area 4E.........................................
135 Regulatory Amendment to Exempt Dinglebar Fishermen in the Gulf of Alaska from Vessel 0648-AX01
Monitoring System Requirements........................................................
136 2009 Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Specifications and Management Measures.. 0648-AX16
137 Fisheries in the Western Pacific; Bottomfish and Seamount Groundfish Fisheries; Main 0648-AX22
Hawaiian Islands; 2008-09 Bottomfish Total Allowable Catch............................
138 Magnuson-Stevens Act Provisions; Fisheries off West Coast States; Pacific Coast 0648-AX24
Groundfish Fishery; 2009-2010 Biennial Specifications and Management Measures.........
139 2009 Pacific Halibut Fisheries; Catch Sharing Plan.................................... 0648-AX44
140 Virginia Modified Pound Net Leader Inspection Program................................. 0648-AU98
141 Endangered and Threatened Species; Designation of Critical Habitat for Elkhorn and 0648-AV35
Staghorn Corals.......................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Patent and Trademark Office--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identifier
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
142 Examination of Patent Applications That Include Claims Containing Alternative Language 0651-AC00
143 Fiscal Year 2009 Revision of Request for Continued Examination, Eighteen-Month 0651-AC29
Publication, and Other Miscellaneous Cost-Recovery Patent Fees........................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Patent and Trademark Office--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identifier
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
144 Fiscal Year 2009 Changes to Patent Cooperation Treaty Search Fees..................... 0651-AC28
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC) Long-Term Actions
International Trade Administration (ITA)
_______________________________________________________________________
56. 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 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
[[Page 21892]]
Phone: 202 482-4006
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0625-AA59
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC) Proposed Rule Stage
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
_______________________________________________________________________
NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE
________________________________
57. 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 05/00/09
NPRM Comment Period End 07/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Thom Barry, Regional Administrator, Northwest Region,
NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way NE., Building 1, Seattle, WA 48115-
0070
Phone: 206 526-6150
Fax: 206 526-6426
RIN: 0648-AR63
_______________________________________________________________________
58. AMENDMENT 1 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE TILEFISH FISHERY
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: Amendment 1 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Tilefish
Fishery would implement Individual Fishing Quotas in the tilefish
fishery.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 05/00/09
NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
RIN: 0648-AS25
_______________________________________________________________________
59. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES (HMS); REDUCING SEA TURTLE TAKES
Legal Authority: 16 USC 971; 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: This action would amend the regulations governing the
Atlantic pelagic longline fishery based upon a June 1, 2004, Biological
Opinion regarding Atlantic sea turtles. This amendment could include
framework mechanisms that would allow the Agency to take action, such
as partial or rolling closures or gear or effort restrictions, if the
number of sea turtle interactions or mortalities exceed anticipated
levels during a certain period of time. This action would not change
established quotas for target species.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
ANPRM 08/12/04 69 FR 49858
ANPRM Comment Period End 10/12/04
NPRM 05/00/09
NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 13362, Silver Spring, MD
20910
Phone: 301 713-2334
RIN: 0648-AS49
_______________________________________________________________________
60. 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
[[Page 21893]]
systems; (6) siting requirements and conditions; (7) restricted access
zones for aquaculture facilities; (8) recordkeeping and reporting
requirements; and (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
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 05/00/09
NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/09
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-AS65
_______________________________________________________________________
61. 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 05/00/09
NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
RIN: 0648-AT31
_______________________________________________________________________
62. AMENDMENT 10 TO THE ATLANTIC MACKEREL, SQUID, AND BUTTERFISH FISHERY
MANAGEMENT PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: This action would implement a rebuilding program for
butterfish.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 06/00/09
NPRM Comment Period End 07/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
RIN: 0648-AT58
_______________________________________________________________________
63. 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 actions: (1) various actions to
comply with new essential fish habitat requirements; (2) establishment
of deep water coral Habitat Areas of Particular Concern, with possible
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 05/00/09
NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/09
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
_______________________________________________________________________
64. 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 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 32052
NPRM 01/14/09 74 FR 2019
NPRM Comment Period End 05/14/09
Final Action 11/00/09
[[Page 21894]]
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
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AV51
_______________________________________________________________________
65. 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 to provide a Taxpayer
Identification Number (TIN) (business' employer identification number
or individual's 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 11/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 13362, Silver Spring, MD
20910
Phone: 301 713-2334
RIN: 0648-AV76
_______________________________________________________________________
66. 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 10/00/09
NPRM Comment Period End 12/00/09
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
_______________________________________________________________________
67. AMENDMENT 15B TO THE SOUTH ATLANTIC FISHERY MANAGEMENT COUNCIL
SNAPPER GROUPER FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: Amendment 15B would assess the practicability of prohibiting
the sale of recreationally caught fish; assess the practicability of
changes to the renewal period on commercial snapper grouper permits;
assess the practicability of allowing one-to-one transfer of commercial
permits from an individual to a family-held corporation; implement a
plan to monitor and assess bycatch; implement measures to minimize the
impacts of incidental take on sea turtles and smalltooth sawfish;
update management reference points for golden tilefish; and define
allocation for snowy grouper and black sea bass.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 05/00/09
NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/09
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
_______________________________________________________________________
68. 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
[[Page 21895]]
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 10/00/09
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
_______________________________________________________________________
69. AMENDMENT 7 TO THE SOUTH ATLANTIC SHRIMP FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: The South Atlantic Fishery Management Council is proposing to
take action to maintain a viable rock shrimp fishery in the South
Atlantic region. Actions in the amendment would: 1) Remove the 15,000-
pound landing requirement; 2) reinstate all endorsements lost due to
not meeting the landing requirement in one of four consecutive calendar
years; 3) reinstate limited access endorsements for vessel owners who
renewed their open access permit in the year in which they failed to
renew their limited access endorsement; 4) rename the limited access
endorsement and the open access permit of the existing permit system to
reduce confusion; and 5) require all South Atlantic shrimp permit
holders to provide economic data if selected.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 05/00/09
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-AW19
_______________________________________________________________________
70. 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 section 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
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 10/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: David Cottingham, 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-AW22
_______________________________________________________________________
71. 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 would revise 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 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 04/00/09
NPRM Comment Period End 05/00/09
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
RIN: 0648-AW24
[[Page 21896]]
_______________________________________________________________________
72. AMENDMENT 3 TO THE NORTHEAST SKATE COMPLEX FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: Amendment 3 is intended to address the overfished status of
winter, thorny, and smooth skates, and end overfishing of thorny
skates. It will establish a rebuilding program for winter and smooth
skates, and modify the Skate FMP to reduce fishing mortality on the
entire skate complex. Additionally, Amendment 3 will implement annual
catch limits and accountability measures, consistent with the
requirements of the reauthorized Magnuson-Stevens Act.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 10/00/09
NPRM Comment Period End 11/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
RIN: 0648-AW30
_______________________________________________________________________
73. 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 would remove the annual limit on the number of
fishing gear deployments (sets) for the Hawaii-based pelagic longline
fishery. The amendment would also revise 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 would 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
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 03/20/09 74 FR 11518
NPRM Comment Period End 05/18/09
Final Action 07/00/09
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
RIN: 0648-AW49
_______________________________________________________________________
74. FISHERIES IN THE WESTERN PACIFIC; COMPENSATION TO NORTHWESTERN
HAWAIIAN ISLANDS BOTTOMFISH AND LOBSTER FISHERMEN DUE TO FISHERY CLOSURE
IN THE PAPAHANAUMOKUAKEA MARINE NATIONAL MONUMENT
Legal Authority: PL 110-161
Abstract: The Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2008 authorizes the
Secretary of Commerce to provide compensation to bottomfish and lobster
fishery participants who will be displaced by the 2011 fishery closure
resulting from the establishment by Presidential Proclamation of the
Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument, Northwestern Hawaiian
Islands. The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) (designee of the
Secretary) is required to promulgate regulations to implement a
voluntary capacity reduction program that: (1) identifies eligible
participants as those individuals holding Federal fishing permits for
lobster or bottomfish in the designated waters within the monument; (2)
provides a mechanism to compensate eligible participants for no more
than the economic value of their permits; and (3) at the option of each
eligible permit holder, provides an optional mechanism for additional
compensation based on the value of the fishing vessel and gear of
eligible participants who decide to receive these additional funds,
provided that the vessels of such participants will not be used for
fishing. For this purpose, $6,697,500 is authorized to be appropriated
to the NMFS for FY 2008.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 04/07/09 74 FR 15685
NPRM Comment Period End 05/04/09
Final Action 07/00/09
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
RIN: 0648-AW52
_______________________________________________________________________
75. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES; ATLANTIC SHARK MANAGEMENT
MEASURES
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: This rule would evaluate 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 would implement 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
[[Page 21897]]
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 10/00/09
NPRM Comment Period End 11/00/09
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
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AW65
_______________________________________________________________________
76. 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
________________________________________________________________________
NOI To Prepare an EIS 05/08/08 73 FR 26082
NPRM 10/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
RIN: 0648-AW75
_______________________________________________________________________
77. HALIBUT CHARTER VESSEL MORATORIUM
Legal Authority: 16 USC 773-773k
Abstract: This action would implement 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).
If approved, this moratorium would limit 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 Action 10/00/09
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
RIN: 0648-AW92
_______________________________________________________________________
78. 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 11/00/09
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
RIN: 0648-AW93
_______________________________________________________________________
79. REGULATORY AMENDMENT (NO. 3) 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
[[Page 21898]]
maintain consistency with the intent of Amendment 13 and subsequent
actions.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 10/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
RIN: 0648-AW95
_______________________________________________________________________
80. 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
NPRM 06/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
RIN: 0648-AX05
_______________________________________________________________________
81. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES; 2009 NORTH AND SOUTH ATLANTIC
COMMERCIAL QUOTAS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: This rule would establish the 2009 fishing season quotas for
North and South Atlantic swordfish based on recent updated landings
information and recommendations 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
the U.S. North and South Atlantic swordfish allocations. This rule will
also include other minor regulatory clarifications, eliminate an
existing sunset provision in the Madison-Swanson and Steamboat Lumps
time/area closure, and establish a small time/area closure in the Gulf
of Mexico.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 04/00/09
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
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AX07
_______________________________________________________________________
82. 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 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% 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 04/00/09
NPRM Comment Period End 05/00/09
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
_______________________________________________________________________
83. AMENDMENT 85 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR
GROUNDFISH OF THE GULF OF ALASKA
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801; 16 USC 3631; 16 USC 773; PL 108-199; PL
109-479
Abstract: Amendment 85 to the FMP would remove a provision that
restricts participation of Central Gulf of Alaska Rockfish Program
catcher processors (CPs) in Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands (BSAI)
groundfish fisheries. The participation restriction was developed to
prevent rockfish program CPs from unfairly benefiting from their
rockfish harvesting privileges by increasing effort in BSAI fisheries
that remained subject to a race for fish. Since the implementation of
the rockfish program, most BSAI groundfish target species have been
allocated among participating sectors, and most CPs in the rockfish
program received exclusive privileges for harvesting these BSAI
species. Consequently, the July stand down may no longer be required as
a protection measure for other BSAI participants and its removal would
enable the rockfish program CPs to more efficiently manage their
harvesting activities. This action is intended to promote the goals and
objectives of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management
Act, the FMP, and other applicable law.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Availabilty 03/24/09 74 FR 12300
NPRM 04/06/09 74 FR 15420
[[Page 21899]]
NPRM Comment Period End 05/21/09
Notice of Availability Comment
Period End 05/26/09
Final Action 07/00/09
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
RIN: 0648-AX42
_______________________________________________________________________
84. 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 04/00/09
NOA for PR 04/00/09
NOA Public Comment Period End 06/00/09
PR Comment Period End 06/00/09
Final Rule 08/00/09
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
RIN: 0648-AX47
_______________________________________________________________________
85. U.S. CITIZEN DEFINITION
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: The current definition of ``U.S. Citizen'' at 50 CFR section
679.2 is critical for permits and licenses, some of which are intended
to be issued only to, and held only by, persons who are U.S. citizens.
The current definition for general applicability refers only to
individual persons and lacks reference to non-individuals, such as
corporations, partnerships, or associations. For consistency and to
avoid confusion among permit applicants, NMFS proposes to revise the
definition of U.S. Citizen.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 04/00/09
NPRM Comment Period End 05/00/09
Final Action 06/00/09
Final Action Effective 07/00/09
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
RIN: 0648-AX52
_______________________________________________________________________
86. 2009 SPECIFICATIONS AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES FOR
THE SPINY DOGFISH FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: This action would set the 2009 fishing year annual quota and
possession limit for the spiny dogfish fishery on the Atlantic coast of
the U.S. consistent with the rebuilding program in the Spiny Dogfish
Fishery Management Plan (FMP). The quota is divided semi-annually, with
quota period 1 (May 1 through October 31) being allocated 57.9% of the
annual quota, and quota period 2 (November 1 through April 30) being
allocated 42.1%.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 03/19/09 74 FR 11706
NPRM Comment Period End 04/03/09
Final Action 07/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Jamie Goen, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic
and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle, WA
98115
Phone: 206 526-4646
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AX57
_______________________________________________________________________
87. REEF FISH AMENDMENT 31 TO REDUCE THE NUMBER OF
LOGGERHEAD SEA TURTLES BY THE EASTERN GULF OF MEXICO BOTTOM LONGLINE
FISHERY
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: In September 2008, NOAA's National Marine Fisheries (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; 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 04/00/09
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
_______________________________________________________________________
88. 2009 SUMMER FLOUNDER, SCUP, AND BLACK SEA BASS
RECREATIONAL MANAGEMENT MEASURES
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
[[Page 21900]]
Abstract: This rulemaking will propose and implement recreational
management measures for the summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass
2009 recreational fisheries. The final rule will contain implementing
regulations that specify the minimum fish size, possession limit, and
fishing season for the three species.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 04/01/09 74 FR 14760
NPRM Comment Period End 05/01/09
Final Action 07/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
RIN: 0648-AX69
_______________________________________________________________________
89. REEF FISH AMENDMENT 30B TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT
PLAN FOR THE REEF FISH RESOURCES OF THE GULF OF MEXICO: MEASURE TO
ESTABLISH THE EDGES SEASONAL-AREA CLOSURE
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: A proposed rule for Amendment 30B was published on November
18, 2009 (73 FR 68390). Unfortunately, the proposed rule was in error
relative to the time period ``The Edges'' seasonal-area closure would
be closed to fishing. Rather than a 4-month closure, as supported by
Amendment 30B and correctly stated in the proposed rule's preamble, the
codified text would have established a year-round closure. However,
other actions in the final rule for Amendment 30B need to be
implemented soon so that states can enact similar regulations for state
waters. Therefore, measures to establish ``The Edges'' seasonal-area
closure from January 1 through April 30 consistent with the intent of
Amendment 30B have been removed from the final rule associated with RIN
0648-AV80 and will be developed through a second rulemaking.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 04/17/09 74 FR 17812
NPRM Comment Period End 05/04/09
Final Action 07/00/09
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-AX73
_______________________________________________________________________
90. 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, 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 06/20/07
NPRM 05/00/09
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
_______________________________________________________________________
91. 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 part 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
[[Page 21901]]
ANPRM Comment Period Extended 10/15/07 72 FR 58279
ANPRM Comment Period End 11/13/07
ANPRM Comment Period Extended
End 12/13/07
NPRM 07/00/09
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
RIN: 0648-AV82
_______________________________________________________________________
92. 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 rulemaking would establish an ESA 4(d) rule
representing regulations that NMFS believes necessary and advisable to
conserve the threatened Southern Distinct Population Segment of North
American green sturgeon (Southern DPS of green sturgeon). The 4(d) rule
would apply the prohibitions listed under ESA section 9(a)(1)(A) and
9(a)(1)(D) through 9(a)(1)(G) for the Southern DPS and apply ESA
section 9(a)(1)(B) and (a)(1)(C) prohibitions (called the ``take
prohibitions'') to specific activities that take Southern DPS fish or
alter its habitat in a manner detrimental to the continued existence of
the species. The 4(d) rule would include exceptions to the take
prohibitions for activities conducted in a way that NMFS deems adequate
to protect or conserve the Southern DPS.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 10/00/09
NPRM Comment Period End 12/00/09
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
_______________________________________________________________________
93. HARBOR PORPOISE TAKE REDUCTION PLAN MEASURES
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq
Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service is preparing a proposed
rule 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 implemented measures to reduce the incidental
capture of harbor porpoises in sink gillnets to below the stock's
Potential Biological Removal level (PBR) in 1999. Measures include:
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. The proposed rule will 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 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 tie-down requirement.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 05/00/09
NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/09
Final Action 11/00/09
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
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AW51
_______________________________________________________________________
94. RULE TO REVISE LEATHERBACK CRITICAL HABITAT
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq
Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), announces a
rule to revise leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea) critical
habitat under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (ESA). 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 12/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Therese Conant, Department of Commerce, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-1431
Fax: 301 713-0376
RIN: 0648-AX06
[[Page 21902]]
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC) Final Rule Stage
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
_______________________________________________________________________
NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE
________________________________
95. REVISIONS TO THE SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH ACTIVITY, EXEMPTED FISHING, AND
EXEMPTED EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITY REGULATIONS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service amends the regulations
at 50 CFR 600.745. The action is intended to provide clearer guidance
to the public for obtaining appropriate acknowledgments and permits and
to facilitate the timely conduct of research to address bycatch and
habitat issues in the fisheries.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/21/07 72 FR 72657
NPRM Comment Period Extended 03/18/08 73 FR 14428
NPRM Comment Period End 03/20/08
Comment Period End 04/04/08
Final Action 05/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 13362, Silver Spring, MD
20910
Phone: 301 713-2334
RIN: 0648-AR78
_______________________________________________________________________
96. FISHERIES IN THE WESTERN PACIFIC; PELAGIC FISHERIES; SQUID JIG
FISHERIES
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: This action would designate pelagic squid as a management
unit species under the Western Pacific Pelagics Fishery Management
Plan, and establish 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 05/00/09
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
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 03/13/09 74 FR 7209
NPRM Comment Period End 03/16/09
Final Action 05/00/09
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
RIN: 0648-AV32
_______________________________________________________________________
98. 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 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; and 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 27997
NPRM Comment Period End 06/13/08
Final Action 11/00/09
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
[[Page 21903]]
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AV53
_______________________________________________________________________
99. AMERICAN LOBSTER DATA COLLECTION AND BROODSTOCK PROTECTION MEASURES
Legal Authority: 16 USC 5101 et seq
Abstract: NMFS is considering the implementation of management measures
in the Federal lobster fishery, consistent with recommendations for
Federal action as specified in the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries
Commission's Interstate Fishery Management Plan for American Lobster.
These proposed management measures include: 100 percent mandatory
dealer reporting requirements for Federal lobster dealers;
implementation of a maximum size limit (maximum carapace length
restriction) in several Lobster Management Areas (LMA); and, revision
to the definition of a V-notch for protection of egg-bearing female
lobsters in several LMAs in the Federal American lobster fishery.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
ANPRM 09/19/07 72 FR 53978
ANPRM Comment Period End 10/22/07
NPRM 10/06/08 73 FR 58099
NPRM Comment Period End 11/20/08
Final Action 05/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
RIN: 0648-AV77
_______________________________________________________________________
100. ESTABLISH A PERMIT FEE COLLECTION FRAMEWORK UNDER THE FISHERY
MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR U.S. WEST COAST FISHERIES FOR HIGHLY MIGRATORY
SPECIES (HMS FMP)
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: This action would establish the authority to collect permit
fees under the Fishery Management Plan for U.S. West Coast Fisheries
for Highly Migratory Species. This rule would amend the FMP regulations
under 50 CFR 660.707 to establish a permit fee collection framework for
HMS commercial and recreational charter vessels operating off the West
Coast. The action is consistent with and implements elements of the
NMFS Permit Fee National Policy Directive 30-120.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/19/08 73 FR 77589
NPRM Comment Period End 01/20/09
Final Action 05/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Mark Helvey, Assistant Regional Administrator for
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration, 501 West Ocean Boulevard, Long Beach, CA
90802
Phone: 562 980-4040
RIN: 0648-AW50
_______________________________________________________________________
101. AMENDMENT 16 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE SNAPPER GROUPER
FISHERY OF THE SOUTH ATLANTIC REGION
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: The need for action through Amendment 16 is to end
overfishing of gag and vermilion snapper. Species in the fishery
management unit are assessed on a routine basis and stock status may
change as new information becomes available. In addition, changes in
management regulations, fishing techniques, and social/economic
structure can result in shifts in the percentage of harvest between
user groups over time. More specifically, these proposed actions for
gag and vermilion snapper would: implement measures to end overfishing
of gag and vermilion snapper; allow the Regional Administrator to make
adjustments to commercial and recreational management measures based on
the reduction in harvest needed to achieve yield at Foy pending the
outcome of a new benchmark assessment for vermillion snapper; specify
the total allowable catch and define interim allocations for gag and
vermilion snapper; update management reference points for gag and
vermilion snapper; and reduce bycatch of snapper grouper species.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Availability 12/24/08 73 FR 79037
NPRM 02/06/09 74 FR 6257
Notice of Availability Comment
Period End 02/23/09
NPRM Comment Period End 03/09/09
Final Action 05/00/09
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-AW64
_______________________________________________________________________
102. AMENDMENT 27 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR BERING SEA/ALEUTIAN
ISLANDS KING AND TANNER CRABS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: Amendment 27 to the Fishery Management Plan (FMP) would amend
the FMP to allow processors to modify use caps that limit the amount of
individual processor quota (IPQ) shares that may be used by persons
processing crab. Specifically, Amendment 27 would allow persons holding
IPQ shares to process their crab at processing facilities they do not
own through contractual arrangements with the facility owners to have
their crab custom processed at that facility. Any crab processed under
such a custom processing arrangement would not be applied against the
IPQ use cap of the facility owners. This action is intended to promote
the goals and objectives of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation
and Management Act, the FMP, and other applicable law.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 09/19/08 73 FR 54346
NPRM Comment Period End 11/03/08
Final Rule 05/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region,
Department of Commerce, National
[[Page 21904]]
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK
99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249
RIN: 0648-AW73
_______________________________________________________________________
103. AMENDMENT 28 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR BERING SEA AND
ALEUTIAN ISLANDS KING AND TANNER CRAB
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1862; PL 109-241; PL 109-479
Abstract: This action would implement Amendment 28 to the Fishery
Management Plan for Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands King and Tanner
Crabs to allow unlimited post-delivery transfers of shares to cover
overages within the crab fishing year ending June 30. Under the crab
rationalization program, harvesters receive annual allocations of
individual fishing quota that provide an exclusive privilege to harvest
a specific number of pounds of crab from a fishery. Any harvest in
excess of an individual fishing quota allocation is a regulatory
violation punishable by confiscation of crab or other penalties.
Precisely estimating of catch at sea during the fishery is difficult
and costly due to variation in size of crab, and sorting and
measurement requirements. Overages can result from inadvertent mistakes
by participants attempting to accurately estimate catch. A provision
allowing for post-delivery transfer of individual fishing quota to
cover overages could reduce the number of inadvertent violations,
allowing for more complete harvest of allocations, and reduce
enforcement costs without increasing the risk of overharvest of
allocations.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Availability 11/25/08 73 FR 71598
NPRM 12/12/08 73 FR 75661
Notice of Availability Comment
Period End 12/25/08
NPRM Comment Period End 01/26/09
Final Action 05/00/09
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
RIN: 0648-AW97
_______________________________________________________________________
104. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES (HMS); 2009 ATLANTIC BLUEFIN TUNA
QUOTA SPECIFICATIONS AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES
Legal Authority: 16 USC 971 et seq; 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: This rule would set Atlantic bluefin tuna (BFT) quota
specifications and seasonal management measures for the 2009 fishing
year (January 1, 2009-December 31, 2009), and amend the BFT
regulations. This action would implement the U.S. annual BFT quota as
recommended by the International Commission for the Conservation of
Atlantic Tunas and allocate that quota among the domestic fishing
categories. The seasonal management measures would set daily retention
limits and their duration for both the General and Angling categories.
The annual specification process is set forth in current regulations
implemented under the Consolidated Highly Migratory Species Fishery
Management Plan. Other BFT regulatory amendments would be made within
the framework procedures of the FMP.
As ICCAT meets in November of the prior year, the rulemaking process
needs to be performed expeditiously in order to publish the measures as
soon as possible in the 2009 fishing year.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 02/18/09 74 FR 7577
NPRM Comment Period End 03/20/09
Final Action 04/00/09
Final Action Effective 05/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 13362, Silver Spring, MD
20910
Phone: 301 713-2334
RIN: 0648-AX12
_______________________________________________________________________
105. AMENDMENT 92 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR BERING SEA/ALEUTIAN
ISLANDS GROUNDFISH AND AMENDMENT 82 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR
GULF OF ALASKA GROUNDFISH
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: Amendments 92/82 would remove trawl gear endorsements on
licenses issued under the license limitation program in specific
management areas if those licenses have not been used on vessels that
meet minimum recent landing requirements using trawl gear. This action
would provide exemptions to this requirement for licenses that are used
in trawl fisheries subject to quota-based management. This action would
issue new area endorsements for trawl catcher vessels in the Aleutian
Islands if minimum recent landing requirements in the Aleutian Islands
were met. This action is intended to promote the goals and objectives
of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, the
FMPs, and other applicable law.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Availability 12/12/08 73 FR 75659
NPRM 12/30/08 73 FR 79773
Notice of Availability Comment
Period End 02/10/09
NPRM Comment Period End 02/13/09
Final Action 05/00/09
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
RIN: 0648-AX14
_______________________________________________________________________
106. ONE-FISH DAILY BAG LIMIT FOR THE GUIDED SPORT CHARTER VESSEL
FISHERY FOR HALIBUT IN REGULATORY AREA 2C
Legal Authority: 16 USC 773 to 773K
Abstract: The regulatory action would implement a one-fish daily bag
limit to reduce the charter halibut fishery harvest in Area 2C to the
guideline harvest limit.
[[Page 21905]]
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/22/08 73 FR 78276
NPRM Comment Period End 01/21/09
Final Action 04/00/09
Final Action Effective 05/00/09
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
RIN: 0648-AX17
_______________________________________________________________________
107. AMENDMENT 90 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR
BERING SEA/ALEUTIAN ISLANDS GROUNDFISH AND AMENDMENT 78 TO THE FISHERY
MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR GULF OF ALASKA GROUNDFISH
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq.
Abstract: Amendments 90/78 would allow post-delivery transfers of
cooperative quota to cover overages in the Amendment 80 Program and the
Central Gulf of Alaska Rockfish Program. This action is necessary to
mitigate potential overages, reduce enforcement costs, and provide for
more precise total allowable catch management. This action is intended
to promote the goals and objectives of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery
Conservation and Management Act, the FMPs, and other applicable law.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 01/05/09 74 FR 254
NPRM Comment Period End 02/19/09
Final Action 06/00/09
Final Action Effective 07/00/09
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
RIN: 0648-AX25
_______________________________________________________________________
108. 2009 ATLANTIC BLUEFISH SPECIFICATIONS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) and the
Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission manage the Atlantic
bluefish fishery jointly through the Atlantic Bluefish Fishery
Management Plan (FMP). The FMP includes a specification process that
requires the Council to recommend, on an annual basis, a total
allowable catch (TAC) and total allowable landings (TAL) that are
consistent with the stock rebuilding program. The TAL is composed of a
commercial quota (allocated to the states from Maine to Florida in
specified shares) and a coastwide recreational harvest limit. The
Council may also specify a research set-aside (RSA) quota. The FMP also
requires the Council to recommend annual fishing measures, such as
possession limits, to assure that the recommended quotas will not be
exceeded. The Council has submitted proposed specifications for the
2009 Atlantic bluefish fishery. In summary, the specifications propose:
(1) A TAC for bluefish of 34.081 million lb (an increase from 31.887
million lb in 2008); (2) an overall TAL of 29.356 million lb (an
increase from 28.156 million lb in 2008); (3) zero transfer from the
recreational sector to the commercial sector, to achieve a commercial
quota of 4.991 million lb (a reduction from 7.692 million lb in 2008)
and a recreational harvest limit of 24.366 million lb (an increase from
20.415 million lb in 2008); (4) an RSA quota of 97,750 lb (would
further reduce quota and limit above); and (5) a recreational
possession limit of 15 fish.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 03/02/09 74 FR 9072
NPRM Comment Period End 03/17/09
Final Action 05/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
RIN: 0648-AX49
_______________________________________________________________________
109. 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 07/00/09
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
RIN: 0648-AH26
_______________________________________________________________________
110. ATLANTIC PELAGIC LONGLINE TAKE REDUCTION PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq
Abstract: With this action, the National Marine Fisheries Service
implements the Atlantic Pelagic Longline Take Reduction Plan in order
to reduce serious injuries and mortalities of long-finned pilot whales,
short-finned pilot whales, and Risso's dolphins in the Atlantic pelagic
longline fishery to insignificant levels approaching a zero mortality
and serious injury rate, within five years of its implementation. The
proposed plan is based on consensus recommendations draft plan was by
the Atlantic Pelagic Longline Take Reduction Team (Team) and includes
both regulatory and non-regulatory measures. Regulatory measures
include: (1) Limiting the mainline length to 20 nautical miles or
[[Page 21906]]
less within the Mid-Atlantic Bight; (2) designating a special research
area offshore of Cape Hatteras, NC; and (3) requiring all pelagic
longline vessels post an informational placards on careful handling and
release of marine mammals in the wheelhouse and working decks of the
vessel. Non-regulatory measures of the plan include: (1) Providing for
12-15 percent observer coverage throughout all Atlantic pelagic
longline fisheries that interact with pilot whales or Risso's dolphins;
(2) encouraging vessel operators throughout the fishery to maintain
daily communications with other local vessel captains; (3) updating
guidelines for careful handling and release of entangled or hooked
marine mammals; and (4) distributing quarterly reports of bycatch of
marine mammals in the pelagic longline fishery to the Team.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 06/24/08 73 FR 35623
NPRM Comment Period End 09/22/08
Final Action 05/00/09
Final Rule Effective 06/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Kristy Long, Fisheries Biologist, Department of
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-
West Highway, Room 13738, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2322
Fax: 301 427-2522
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AV65
_______________________________________________________________________
111. DESIGNATION OF CRITICAL HABITAT FOR THE ENDANGERED U.S. DISTINCT
POPULATION SEGMENT (DPS) OF GUIDED SMALLTOOTH SAWFISH
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq
Abstract: This action would designate critical habitat for the U.S. DPS
of smalltooth sawfish, which was listed as endangered on April 1, 2003.
The designation would be located in Florida, within the current
geographic range of the species. Comments from the public on the
proposal, including information on the economic impacts, national
security, and other relevant documents, as well as the benefits to the
species from the designation will be solicited during a 60-day comment
period. A draft economic analysis and Section 4(b)(2) report will be
conducted in support of this proposed rule.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/20/08 73 FR 70290
Notice 12/09/08 73 FR 74681
NPRM Comment Period End 01/20/09
Notice--Reopen Comment Period 01/29/09 74 FR 5141
Comment Period End 02/13/09
Final Action 05/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Shelley L. Norton, Smalltooth Sawfish and Johnson's
Seagrass Coordinator, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration, 253 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL
33701
Phone: 727 551-5781
Fax: 727 524-5309
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AV74
_______________________________________________________________________
112. RULEMAKING TO DESIGNATE CRITICAL HABITAT FOR THE GULF OF MAINE
DISTINCT POPULATION SEGMENT OF ATLANTIC SALMON
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq
Abstract: Under section 4 of the Endangered Species Act (ESA), the
Secretary of Commerce (Secretary) shall designate critical habitat for
species listed as threatened or endangered. This rulemaking would
designate critical habitat in 45 specific areas occupied by Atlantic
salmon at the time of listing that comprise approximately 203,781 km of
perennial river, stream, and estuary habitat and 868 square km of lake
habitat within the range of the Gulf of Maine's distinct population
segment and on which are found those physical and biological features
essential to the conservation of the species. A draft economic
analysis, biological report, and ESA section 4(b)(2) analysis report in
support of the proposed rulemaking will be available for public review
and comment. We solicit comments from the public regarding the proposed
rulemaking, including comments on economic, national security, or other
relevant impacts, as well as the benefits of the designation to Gulf of
Maine Atlantic salmon.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 09/05/08 73 FR 51747
NPRM Comment Period End 11/04/08
Final Action 11/00/09
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-AW77
_______________________________________________________________________
113. RULEMAKING TO DESIGNATE CRITICAL HABITAT FOR THE THREATENED
SOUTHERN DISTINCT POPULATION SEGMENT OF NORTH AMERICAN GREEN STURGEON
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq
Abstract: Under section 4 of the Endangered Species Act (ESA), the
Secretary of Commerce (Secretary) shall designate critical habitat for
species listed as threatened or endangered. This rulemaking would
designate critical habitat for the threatened Southern Distinct
Population Segment of North American green sturgeon (Southern DPS),
including: the Sacramento River, lower Feather River, and lower Yuba
River in California; the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta and Suisun, San
Pablo, and San Francisco Bays in California; certain coastal bays and
estuaries in California, Oregon, and Washington; and coastal marine
waters within 110 m depth off California, Oregon, and Washington. A
draft economic analysis, biological report, and ESA section 4(b)(2)
analysis report in support of the proposed rulemaking will be available
for public review and comment.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 09/08/08 73 FR 52084
Notice of Public Workshop;
Correction to a Proposed Rule--
10/16/2008 10/07/08 73 FR 58527
NPRM Comment Period End 11/07/08
Final Action 06/00/09
[[Page 21907]]
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-AX04
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC) Completed Actions
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
_______________________________________________________________________
114. REQUIRE MANDATORY OBSERVER COVERAGE IN THE AT-SEA PROCESSING SECTOR
OF THE WHITING FISHERY
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: This action amends the regulations implementing the Pacific
Coast Groundfish Fishery Management Plan to provide for a mandatory,
vessel-financed observer program on at-sea processing vessels.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 09/10/03 68 FR 53334
NPRM Comment Period End 10/10/03
Final Rule 05/11/04 69 FR 31751
Interim Final Rule 06/07/04 69 FR 31751
Interim Final Rule Comment
Period End 07/07/04
Final Action 07/07/04 69 FR 31751
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Thom Barry, Regional Administrator, Northwest Region,
NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way NE., Building 1, Seattle, WA 48115-
0070
Phone: 206 526-6150
Fax: 206 526-6426
RIN: 0648-AK26
_______________________________________________________________________
115. BERING SEA AND ALEUTIAN ISLANDS AMENDMENT 73 AND GULF OF ALASKA
AMENDMENT 77 GROUNDFISH FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLANS TO REVISE MANAGEMENT
AUTHORITY OF DARK ROCKFISH
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: This amendment would remove dark rockfish (Sebastes ciliatus)
from the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands (BSAI) and Gulf of Alaska
(GOA) groundfish fishery management plans (FMP). The State of Alaska
would then assume management of dark rockfish in the BSAI and GOA.
Regulatory amendments are needed to implement these FMP amendments to
remove dark rockfish from Table 2a of 50 CFR part 679 (FMP species) and
to add dark rockfish to Table 2d of 50 CFR part 679 (non-FMP species).
The regulations implementing Amendment 73/77 also would revise the
scientific name and species code for dusky rockfish on Table 2a to 50
CFR part 679.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 09/24/08 73 FR 55010
NPRM Comment Period End 11/17/08
Final Action 12/31/08 73 FR 80307
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
RIN: 0648-AU20
_______________________________________________________________________
116. AMENDMENT 14 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE SNAPPER-GROUPER
FISHERY OF THE SOUTH ATLANTIC REGION
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: Amendment 14 would establish a series of 8 Type II Marine
Protected Areas (MPAs) in federal waters in the South Atlantic. The
MPAs range in size from 8 square nautical miles to 150 square nautical
miles, and would be distributed from North Carolina south to the
Florida Keys. Within the MPAs, fishing for, or retention of, species in
the snapper grouper management complex would be prohibited, as would
the use of shark bottom longline fishing gear. Trolling for pelagic
species such as tuna, dolphin, and mackerel would be allowed within the
MPAs.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice 07/20/06 71 FR 41207
Notice of Availability 06/06/08 73 FR 32281
NPRM 07/16/08 73 FR 40824
NPRM Comment Period End 08/15/08
Final Action 01/13/09 74 FR 1621
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-AU28
_______________________________________________________________________
117. FRAMEWORK 4 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR MONKFISH
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: This framework adjustment would establish target TACs of
5,000 mt and 5,100 mt for the Northern Fishery Management Area (NFMA)
and Southern Fishery Management Area (SFMA), respectively, for the
final 3 years of the rebuilding plan (FY 2007-FY 2009), unless
otherwise modified by the Monkfish Monitoring Committee (MFMC) during
their annual review process. Essentially, this framework adjustment
would remove the Framework 2 control rule and replace it with target
TACs that were developed based upon an analysis conducted by the
Monkfish Plan Development Team (PDT). This framework would also
implement monkfish Days-at-Sea requirements for vessels fishing in the
NFMA, and addresses other minor issues raised by industry.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Proposed Rule and Proposed
Interim Rule 03/20/07 72 FR 13069
[[Page 21908]]
NPRM Comment Period End 04/19/07
Interim Final Rule 04/27/07 72 FR 20952
Final Rule 09/21/07 72 FR 53942
Interim Final Rule Comment
Period End 10/22/07
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
RIN: 0648-AU34
_______________________________________________________________________
118. AMENDMENT 15 TO THE SUMMER FLOUNDER, SCUP, AND BLACK SEA BASS
FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: Amendment 15 would address allocation and other issues in the
summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass fisheries.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Withdrawn 04/30/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
RIN: 0648-AU36
_______________________________________________________________________
119. APPROVAL OF OPERATIONS PLAN FOR THE GEORGES BANK FIXED GEAR SECTOR
FOR 2007-2008
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Duplicate of 0648-AV22 02/05/09
RIN: 0648-AU61
_______________________________________________________________________
120. RESTRICTIONS FOR 2007 PURSE SEINE AND LONGLINE FISHERIES IN THE
EASTERN TROPICAL PACIFIC OCEAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 951 to 961; 16 USC 971
Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service announces the 2007
conservation and management measures for international tuna fisheries
in the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean. The purse seine fishery will be
closed for six weeks from August 1, 2007, to September 11, 2007, and
any national longline fishery that reaches a catch level for bigeye
tuna equal to the 2001 catch levels will also be closed. The intended
effect of this rule is to limit fishing mortality caused by purse seine
fishing and longline fishing in the ETP, and to contribute to long-term
conservation of the tuna stocks at levels that support healthy
fisheries. This will conform to the Inter-American Tropical Tuna
Commission recommendation that was approved by the State Department.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 02/26/07 72 FR 8333
NPRM Comment Period End 03/28/07
Final Rule 06/04/07 72 FR 30711
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Mark Helvey, Assistant Regional Administrator for
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration, 501 West Ocean Boulevard, Long Beach, CA
90802
Phone: 562 980-4040
RIN: 0648-AU79
_______________________________________________________________________
121. REVISION TO ALLOWABLE BYCATCH REDUCTION DEVICES FOR THE GULF OF
MEXICO SHRIMP FISHERY
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: In accordance with the framework procedures for adjusting
management measures of the Fishery Management Plan for the Shrimp
Fishery of the Gulf of Mexico (FMP), the National Marine Fisheries
Service proposes to decertify the expanded mesh bycatch reduction
device (BRD), the Gulf fisheye BRD, and to revise the allowable
configuration of the fisheye BRD for use in the Gulf of Mexico shrimp
fishery. The intended effect of this rule is to improve bycatch
reduction in the shrimp fishery and better meet the requirements of
national standard 9.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 06/03/08 73 FR 31669
NPRM Comment Period End 07/03/08
Comment Period Extended 07/07/08 73 FR 38387
Comment Period Ends 08/06/08
Final Rule 11/18/08 73 FR 68355
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-AV14
_______________________________________________________________________
122. FISHERIES IN THE WESTERN PACIFIC; BOTTOMFISH AND SEAMOUNT
GROUNDFISH FISHERIES; MANAGEMENT MEASURES FOR THE NORTHERN MARIANA
ISLANDS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: Amendment 10 to the fishery management plan for Bottomfish
and Seamount Groundfish Fisheries in the Western Pacific would
establish Federal permitting and reporting requirements, closed areas,
and vessel monitoring system requirements, for commercial bottomfish
fishing in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Availability 08/20/08 73 FR 49157
NPRM 09/08/08 73 FR 51992
NOA Comment Period End 10/20/08
NPRM Comment Period End 10/23/08
Final Action 12/12/08 73 FR 75615
Final Action--Collection of
Information Approval 04/06/09 74 FR 15373
Final Action Effective--
Collection of Information
Approval 05/06/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator,
[[Page 21909]]
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI
96814
Phone: 808 944-2207
RIN: 0648-AV28
_______________________________________________________________________
123. GUIDANCE FOR ANNUAL CATCH LIMITS AND ACCOUNTABILITY MEASURES TO END
OVERFISHING
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1853
Abstract: Section 104(b) of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation
and Management Reauthorization Act of 2006 (MSRA), requires that in
fishing year 2010, for fisheries determined by the Secretary to be
subject to overfishing, and in fishing year 2011, for all other
fisheries, that fishery management plans establish annual catch limits
(ACLs), including regulations and annual specifications, at a level
such that overfishing does not occur in a fishery, including measures
to ensure accountability.
The National Marine Fisheries Service intends to prepare guidance on
how to establish adequate ACLs and AMs by revising its National
Standard 1 (NS1) guidelines at 50 CFR 600.310. This is because NS1 of
the Magnuson-Stevens Act states that ``Conservation and management
measures shall prevent overfishing while achieving, on a continuing
basis, the optimum yield from each fishery for the United States
fishing industry.''
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 06/09/08 73 FR 32526
Notice 06/26/08 73 FR 36300
NRPM Comment Period Extended 08/13/08 73 FR 47125
NPRM Comment Period End 09/08/08
NRPM Comment Period End 09/22/08
Final Action 01/16/09 74 FR 3178
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 13362, Silver Spring, MD
20910
Phone: 301 713-2334
RIN: 0648-AV60
_______________________________________________________________________
124. RULE TO IMPLEMENT A MINIMUM POSSESSION SIZE LIMIT ON SPINY LOBSTER
(PANULIRUS ARGUS)
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: The United States is a major importer of spiny lobster from
the Caribbean, importing more than 88,000 tons (over 194 million lbs)
over the past 10 years, worth an estimated $2.27 billion dollars. The
United States imports over 90 percent of the spiny lobster harvested in
Brazil, Colombia, Central America and the Caribbean countries. The
major exporters to the United States are the Bahamas, Brazil, Honduras
and Nicaragua. All of these exporting countries have some form of
minimum size requirement, but they are not standardized and enforcement
is severely lacking. Therefore, NOAA Fisheries Service in coordination
with the Caribbean, South Atlantic, and Gulf of Mexico Fishery
Management Councils is proposing to place a minimum size limit
restriction on imports to curtail the flow of undersized lobster
harvested in foreign countries.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Intent 07/26/07 72 FR 41063
Notice of Availability 10/15/08 73 FR 61015
NPRM 10/29/08 73 FR 64295
NPRM Comment Period End 12/15/08
Final Action 01/12/09 74 FR 1148
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-AV61
_______________________________________________________________________
125. GENERAL PROVISIONS FOR DOMESTIC FISHERIES; SPECIFICATIONS FOR
BOARDING LADDERS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq; 16 USC 2431 et seq; 16 USC
3636(b); 16 USC 5501 et seq; 16 USC 773 et seq; 16 USC 951 to 961; 16
USC 973 to 973r; 16 USC 971 et seq
Abstract: This regulation would require domestic fishing vessels to
have a U.S. Coast Guard-approved pilot ladder on board as a safer means
for authorized personnel to board the vessels in carrying out their
duties under the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management
Act, the Atlantic Tunas Convention Act and other applicable laws. This
action is necessary to provide for the safety of personnel boarding
domestic fishing vessels, as current standards have proven to be
inadequate. This action would establish a safer and more enforceable
national standard for ladders used by authorized officers for boarding
domestic fishing vessels subject to Federal regulation.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/11/07 72 FR 70286
NPRM Comment Period End 01/10/08
Second NPRM 01/25/08 73 FR 4514
Second NPRM Comment Period End 02/25/08
Final Action 11/17/08 73 FR 67805
Final Action Effective Date 01/01/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 13362, Silver Spring, MD
20910
Phone: 301 713-2334
RIN: 0648-AV78
_______________________________________________________________________
126. GULF REEF FISH AMENDMENT 30B
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: Amendment 30B addresses the findings of Gulf of Mexico red
grouper and gag stock assessments. Red grouper is not undergoing
overfishing and is not overfished. Gag is undergoing overfishing and
whether gag is overfished is still being determined. This action
incorporates both red grouper and gag management measures together as
the measures affecting one species invariably affect the other. The
amendment would implement management measures to increase red grouper
total allowable catch and to end overfishing of gag.
[[Page 21910]]
The amendment also proposes definitions for gag status criteria and
reference points. The amendment also examines grouper accountability
measures, closed fishing areas, and ways to reduce discard mortality.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice 03/07/08 73 FR 12393
Notice of Availability 10/28/08 73 FR 63932
NPRM 11/18/08 73 FR 68390
Interim Final Rule 12/02/08 73 FR 73219
Notice of Availability 12/29/08
NPRM Comment Period End 01/02/09
Final Action 04/16/09 74 FR 17603
Final Action Effective 05/18/09
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-AV80
_______________________________________________________________________
127. AMENDMENT 3 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE SPINY LOBSTER
FISHERY OF PUERTO RICO AND THE U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS AND AMENDMENT 4 TO
THE REEF FISH FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN OF PUERTO RICO AND THE U.S.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Duplicate of 0648-AV61 02/05/09
RIN: 0648-AV98
_______________________________________________________________________
128. AMENDMENT 15 TO THE PACIFIC COAST GROUNDFISH FISHERY MANAGEMENT
PLAN: LIMITED ENTRY PROGRAM FOR THE PACIFIC WHITING FISHERY
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: Amendment 15 to the Pacific Coast Groundfish FMP would
implement a limited entry program for the Pacific whiting fishery,
which occurs within the Exclusive Economic Zone off the coasts of
Washington, Oregon, and California. This action would limit future
participation in each of the three non-tribal sectors of the Pacific
whiting fishery to those vessels with historic participation in those
particular sectors.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 07/11/08 73 FR 39930
NPRM Comment Period End 08/11/08
Final Action 03/10/09 74 FR 10189
Correction 03/20/09 74 FR 11880
Correction Effective 04/09/09
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
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AW08
_______________________________________________________________________
129. REVISE MAXIMUM RETAINABLE AMOUNTS (MRA) OF GROUNDFISH IN THE GULF
OF ALASKA ARROWTOOTH FLOUNDER FISHERY
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: This regulatory amendment would revise the maximum retainable
amounts (MRAs) of groundfish using arrowtooth flounder as a basis
species in the Gulf of Alaska. MRAs for deep-water flatfish, rex sole,
flathead sole, shallow-water flatfish, Atka mackerel, and skates would
be increased from 0 percent to 20 percent; the MRA for aggregated
rockfish would be increased from 0 percent to 5 percent; and the MRA
for sablefish would be increased from 0 percent to 1 percent for
sablefish. This action would reduce regulatory discards of otherwise
marketable groundfish in the arrowtooth flounder fishery.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/25/08 73 FR 71592
NPRM Comment Period End 12/26/08
Final Action 03/27/09 74 FR 13348
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
RIN: 0648-AW40
_______________________________________________________________________
130. REVISIONS TO THE POLLOCK TRIP LIMIT REGULATIONS IN THE GULF OF
ALASKA
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: This regulatory action revises the current pollock trip limit
regulation to prohibit a catcher vessel from retaining more than 136 mt
(300,000 lb) of unprocessed pollock during a calendar day, and landing
more than 136 mt (300,000 lb) of pollock during a fishing trip. The
National Marine Fisheries Service also proposes to prohibit a vessel
from landing a cumulative amount of unprocessed pollock from any Gulf
of Alaska (GOA) reporting area that exceeds 136 mt (300,000 lb) times
the number of days the pollock fishery is open to directed fishing in a
season. The objective of this rule is to prevent certain pollock catch
and delivery practices that allow some vessels to circumvent the intent
of current trip limit regulations. These delivery practices have caused
seasonal pollock quotas to be exceeded, and if allowed to continue
could conflict with Steller sea lion protection measures under
Endangered Species Act (ESA) that are intended to disperse pollock
catches in the GOA. These delivery practices have caused seasonal
pollock quotas to be exceeded, and if allowed to continue could
conflict with Steller sea lion protection measures under ESA that are
intended to disperse pollock catches in the GOA. Current regulations in
the pollock directed fishery prohibit catcher vessels from exceeding a
catch of 136 mt (300,000 lb) of pollock in a fishing trip. Since trip
limits were implemented in 1999, these regulations have become less
effective, as multiple trips during a day and partial offloads of
pollock product during a trip have allowed for increasing amounts of
pollock to be caught in some areas of the GOA. Amending the current
trip limit regulation to limit legal opportunities for a vessel to
exceed 136 mt (300,000 lb) of pollock caught in a day, would continue
to disperse catches of pollock in a manner that is consistent with the
intent of Steller sea lion protection measures in the GOA.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 10/20/08 73 FR 62241
[[Page 21911]]
NPRM Comment Period End 11/19/08
Final Action 04/21/09 74 FR 18156
Final Action Effective 05/21/09
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
RIN: 0648-AW54
_______________________________________________________________________
131. AMENDMENT TO THE BOTTLENOSE DOLPHIN TAKE REDUCTION PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq
Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) amends the
Bottlenose Dolphin Take Reduction Plan's (BDTRP) implementing
regulations by extending, for an additional three years, fishing
restrictions expiring on May 26, 2009. This action will continue,
without modification, current nighttime fishing restrictions of medium
mesh gillnets operating in the North Carolina portion of the Winter-
Mixed Management Unit during the winter. Members of the Bottlenose
Dolphin Take Reduction Team (BDTRT) recommended these regulations be
extended for an additional three years to ensure continued conservation
of the Western North Atlantic coastal bottlenose dolphin stock, should
a directed spiny dogfish fishery reemerge in North Carolina.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 08/22/08 73 FR 49634
NPRM Comment Period End 09/22/08
Final Action 12/19/08 73 FR 77531
Final Action Effective 01/20/09
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
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AW68
_______________________________________________________________________
132. REFERENDUM PROCEDURES FOR A POTENTIAL GULF OF MEXICO GROUPER AND
TILEFISH INDIVIDUAL FISHING QUOTA (IFQ) PROGRAM
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
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 Council is
considering an IFQ program to further control effort in the commercial
grouper and tilefish fisheries in the Gulf of Mexico. Under the
Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (Magnuson-
Stevens Act), NOAA's National Marine Fisheries Service must conduct a
referendum to determine whether an IFQ program, as ultimately
developed, should be submitted to the Secretary of Commerce for review,
approval, and implementation. This proposed rule would provide
potential referendum participants information concerning the schedule,
procedures, and eligibility requirements for participating in the
referendum. The intended effect of this proposed rule is to implement
the requirements of the Magnuson-Stevens Act for implementing an IFQ
program in the Gulf of Mexico.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 09/04/08 73 FR 51617
NPRM Comment Period End 10/06/08
Final Action 10/30/08 73 FR 64562
Final Action Effective 12/01/08
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-AW85
_______________________________________________________________________
133. INTERIM ACTION TO REDUCE FISHING MORTALITY AND MAINTAIN STOCK
REBUILDING; NORTHEAST MULTISPECIES FISHERY
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: The FMP requires fishing mortality reductions to be
implemented May 1, 2009, as a part of the rebuilding plan specified
under Amendment 13 to the FMP, and if additional reductions in fishing
mortality are necessary as a result of stock assessments that will
occur in August 2008. The New England Fishery Management Council is
currently developing Amendment 16 to the FMP that, if approved, would
implement management measures to achieve the necessary fishing
mortality reductions to meet the required objectives of the FMP, as
well as other extensive modifications to the FMP. However, due to the
scope and complexity of Amendment 16, it is likely that the development
the Amendment may be behind schedule and not be implemented by May 1,
2009. Therefore, due to the need to meet the rebuilding goals of the
FMP by May 1, 2009, an interim action is being developed by NOAA's
National Marine Fisheries Service. This interim action would be more
narrow in scope than Amendment 16 and focus on the required adjustments
to the FMP, and include a measure that would provide flexibility to the
industry and mitigate negative economic impacts. This action would
remain in effect until Amendment 16 is implemented, which is expected
no later than May 1, 2010.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 01/16/09 74 FR 2959
NPRM Comment Period End 02/17/09
Final Action 04/13/09 74 FR 17030
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
RIN: 0648-AW87
[[Page 21912]]
_______________________________________________________________________
134. SEABIRD AVOIDANCE REQUIREMENTS REVISIONS FOR HOOK-AND-LINE VESSELS
IN INTERNATIONAL PACIFIC HALIBUT COMMISSION REGULATORY AREA 4E
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: NMFS takes this action to revise the seabird avoidance
regulations for the hook-and-line fishery for groundfish and halibut in
the International Pacific Halibut Commission regulatory area 4E of the
Bering Sea. This action would eliminate seabird avoidance requirements
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