[Federal Register Volume 62, Number 72 (Tuesday, April 15, 1997)] [Notices] [Page 18316] From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] [FR Doc No: 97-9630] ----------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration [I.D. 040997A] Groundfish of the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands AGENCY: National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Commerce. ACTION: Notice of receipt of an experimental fishing permit. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: This notice announces receipt of an application from John Gauvin, Groundfish Forum, Inc., for an Experimental Fishing Permit (EFP). If awarded, this permit would be used to systematically test the effects of a different trawl net design on species and size composition of catch in trawls targeting flatfish. It is intended to promote the objectives of the Fishery Management Plan for the Groundfish Fishery of the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands Area (FMP). ADDRESSES: Copies of the EFP application are available from Steven Pennoyer, Administrator, Alaska Region, NMFS, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802, Attn: Lori Gravel. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Kent Lind, 907-586-7228. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The FMP and its implementing regulations at 50 CFR part 679.6 authorize issuance of EFPs to allow fishing that would otherwise be prohibited. Procedures for issuing EFPs are contained in the implementing regulations. NMFS received a request from the applicant on March 14, 1997, that, if approved, would be used to systematically test the effects of a different trawl net design on species and size composition of catch in trawls targeting flatfish. Information from this experiment could be used by the fishing industry to reduce catches of non-target species (e.g., pollock and cod) while fishing for flatfish, thereby reducing waste and discard of those species. In accordance with regulations, NMFS has determined that the proposal warrants further consideration and has initiated consultation with the North Pacific Fishery Management Council (Council) by forwarding the application to the Council. The Council will consider the EFP application during its April 15-19, 1997, meeting and has invited the applicant to appear in support of the application if he so desires. A copy of the application is available for review from the NMFS Regional Administrator (see ADDRESSES). Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seg. Dated: April 9, 1997. Gary C. Matlock, Director, Office of Sustainable Fisheries, National Marine Fisheries Service. [FR Doc. 97-9630 Filed 4-14-97; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3510-22-F