[The Regulatory Plan and Unified Agenda of Federal Regulatory and Deregulatory Actions]
[Department of Commerce Semiannual Regulatory Agenda]
[From the U.S. Government Printing Office, www.gpo.gov]
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Part IV
Department of Commerce
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Semiannual Regulatory Agenda
[[Page 71326]]
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
Fall 2008 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 spring 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 fall 2008 regulatory agenda includes
regulatory activities that are expected to be conducted during the
period October 1, 2008, through September 30, 2009.
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 July 7, 2008, the Office of
Management and Budget issued guidelines and procedures for the
preparation and publication of the fall 2008 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.
For this edition of the Department of Commerce's regulatory
agenda, the most important significant regulatory actions and a
Statement of Regulatory Priorities are included in The Regulatory
Plan, which appears in both the online Unified Agenda and in part
II of the Federal Register that includes the Unified Agenda.
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
[[Page 71327]]
significance and timing of some regulatory actions under
consideration by the Councils at the time the semiannual regulatory
agenda is published.
The Department's fall 2008 regulatory agenda follows.
Lily Fu Claffee,
General Counsel.
International Trade Administration--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identifier
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
190 Commercial Availability of Fabric and Yarn............................................ 0625-AA59
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identifier
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
191 Maximize Retention and Monitoring Program in the Shore-Based Pacific Whiting Fishery.. 0648-AR63
192 Amendment 1 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Tilefish Fishery................... 0648-AS25
193 Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS); Reducing Sea Turtle Takes.................... 0648-AS49
194 Amendment to Coastal Migratory Pelagics FMP, Red Drum FMP, Reef Fish FMP, Spiny 0648-AS65
Lobster FMP, and Stone Crab FMP To Provide for Regulation of Marine Aquaculture (Reg
Plan Seq No. 20)......................................................................
195 American Lobster Fishery; Fishing Effort Control Measures To Complement Interstate 0648-AT31
Lobster Management Recommendations by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission.
196 Amendment 10 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fishery Management Plan.. 0648-AT58
197 BSAI Amendment 73 and GOA Amendment 77 FMP To Revise Management Authority of Dark 0648-AU20
Rockfish..............................................................................
198 Amendment 15 to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery Management Plan. 0648-AU36
199 Restrictions for 2007 Purse Seine and Longline Fisheries in the Eastern Tropical 0648-AU79
Pacific Ocean.........................................................................
200 South Atlantic Fishery Ecosystem Plan Comprehensive Amendment......................... 0648-AV31
201 Modifying Maximum Retainable Amounts (MRAs) for Selected Groundfish Species Caught by 0648-AV32
the Non-American Fishing Act Trawl Catcher Processor Sector...........................
202 Certification of Nations Whose Fishing Vessels Are Engaged in IUU Fishing or Bycatch 0648-AV51
of Protected Living Marine Resources (Reg Plan Seq No. 21)............................
203 Rule To Implement a Minimum Possession Size Limit on Spiny Lobster (Panulirus argus).. 0648-AV61
204 Collection and Use of Tax Identification Numbers From Holders of and Applicants for 0648-AV76
National Marine Fisheries Service Permits.............................................
205 American Lobster Data Collection and Broodstock Protection Measures................... 0648-AV77
206 Gulf Reef Fish Amendment 30B.......................................................... 0648-AV80
207 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.......................................................
208 Amendment 15 to the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery Management Plan: Limited Entry 0648-AW08
Program for the Pacific Whiting Fishery...............................................
209 Amendment 17 to the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council Snapper Grouper Fishery 0648-AW11
Management Plan.......................................................................
210 Amendment 15B to the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council Snapper Grouper Fishery 0648-AW12
Management Plan.......................................................................
211 Amendment 2 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Queen Conch Fishery of Puerto Rico 0648-AW15
and the U.S. Virgin Islands...........................................................
212 Amendment 7 to the South Atlantic Shrimp Fishery Management Plan...................... 0648-AW19
213 Marine Mammal Protection Act Stranding Regulation Revisions........................... 0648-AW22
214 Revise Regulations Governing the North Pacific Groundfish Observer Program............ 0648-AW24
215 Amendment 3 to the Northeast Skate Complex Fishery Management Plan.................... 0648-AW30
216 Fisheries in the Western Pacific; Western Pacific Pelagic Fisheries; Amendment 18 to 0648-AW49
the Pelagics Fishery Management Plan; Shallow-Set Longline Swordfish Fishery..........
217 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)...........................
218 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..............................................................
219 Amendment 16 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Snapper Grouper Fishery of the 0648-AW64
South Atlantic Region.................................................................
220 Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Atlantic Shark Management Measures................. 0648-AW65
221 Amendment 4 to the Atlantic Herring Fishery Management Plan........................... 0648-AW75
222 Interim Action To Reduce Fishing Mortality and Maintain Stock Rebuilding; Northeast 0648-AW87
Multispecies Fishery..................................................................
223 Halibut Charter Vessel Moratorium..................................................... 0648-AW92
224 Allowable Modifications to the Turtle Excluder Device (TED) Requirements.............. 0648-AW93
[[Page 71328]]
225 Seabird Avoidance Requirements Revisions for Hook-and-Line Vessels in International 0648-AW94
Pacific Halibut Commission Regulatory Area 4E.........................................
226 Regulatory Amendment (3) To Correct and Clarify Amendment 13 and Subsequent 0648-AW95
Frameworks of the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan......................
227 Amendment 28 to the Fishery Management Plan for Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands King 0648-AW97
and Tanner Crab.......................................................................
228 Amendment 11 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, Butterfish Fishery Management Plan...... 0648-AX05
229 Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; 2009 North and South Atlantic Commercial Quotas.... 0648-AX07
230 Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS); 2009 Atlantic Bluefin Tuna Quota 0648-AX12
Specifications and Management Measures................................................
231 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.........
232 2009 Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Specifications and Management Measures.. 0648-AX16
233 One-Fish Daily Bag Limit for the Guided Sport Charter Vessel Fishery for Halibut in 0648-AX17
Regulatory Area 2C....................................................................
234 Protective Regulations for Killer Whales in the Northwest Region Under the Endangered 0648-AV15
Species Act and Marine Mammal Protection Act..........................................
235 Designation of Critical Habitat for the Endangered U.S. Distinct Population Segment 0648-AV74
(DPS) of Smalltooth Sawfish...........................................................
236 Marine Mammal Protection Act Permit Regulation Revisions.............................. 0648-AV82
237 Rulemaking To Establish Take Prohibitions for the Threatened Southern Distinct 0648-AV94
Population Segment of North American Green Sturgeon...................................
238 Harbor Porpoise Take Reduction Plan Measures.......................................... 0648-AW51
239 Rulemaking To Designate Critical Habitat for the Gulf of Maine Distinct Population 0648-AW77
Segment of Atlantic Salmon............................................................
240 Rulemaking To Designate Critical Habitat for the Threatened Southern Distinct 0648-AX04
Population Segment of North American Green Sturgeon...................................
241 Rule To Revise Leatherback Critical Habitat........................................... 0648-AX06
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References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register.
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identifier
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
242 Require Mandatory Observer Coverage in the At-Sea Processing Sector of the Whiting 0648-AK26
Fishery...............................................................................
243 Revisions to the Scientific Research Activity, Exempted Fishing, and Exempted 0648-AR78
Educational Activity Regulations......................................................
244 Western Pacific Squid Fishery......................................................... 0648-AS71
245 Amendment 14 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Snapper-Grouper Fishery of the 0648-AU28
South Atlantic Region.................................................................
246 Framework 4 to the Fishery Management Plan for Monkfish............................... 0648-AU34
247 Revision to Allowable Bycatch Reduction Devices for the Gulf of Mexico Shrimp Fishery. 0648-AV14
248 Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Reauthorization Act (MSRA) 0648-AV53
Environmental Review Procedure (Reg Plan Seq No. 24)..................................
249 Guidance for Annual Catch Limits and Accountability Measures to End Overfishing (Reg 0648-AV60
Plan Seq No. 25)......................................................................
250 General Provisions for Domestic Fisheries; Specifications for Boarding Ladders........ 0648-AV78
251 Amendment 27 to the Fishery Management Plan for Bering Sea/Aleutian Islands King and 0648-AW73
Tanner Crabs..........................................................................
252 Referendum Procedures for a Potential Gulf of Mexico Grouper and Tilefish Individual 0648-AW85
Fishing Quota (IFQ) Program...........................................................
253 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.............................................................................
254 Virginia Modified Pound Net Leader Inspection Program................................. 0648-AU98
255 Endangered and Threatened Species; Designation of Critical Habitat for Elkhorn and 0648-AV35
Staghorn Corals.......................................................................
256 Atlantic Pelagic Longline Take Reduction Plan......................................... 0648-AV65
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register.
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identifier
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
257 Amendment 9 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fishery Management Plan... 0648-AP60
[[Page 71329]]
258 Amendment 72 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Groundfish of the Gulf of Alaska.. 0648-AR72
259 Amend Subsistence Halibut Fishing Regulations in Waters In and Off Alaska............. 0648-AU14
260 Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; International Trade Permit Regulatory Amendment.... 0648-AU88
261 Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Atlantic Shark Management Measures................. 0648-AU89
262 Amendment 25 the Fishery Management Plan in the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands King 0648-AV19
and Tanner Crab Fisheries off Alaska..................................................
263 Fisheries in the Western Pacific; Precious Corals Fisheries; Fishery Management Plan 0648-AV30
for Amendment 7--Gold and Black Coral Management......................................
264 Reef Fish Amendment 30A for Greater Amberjack and Gray Triggerfish: TAC Adjustments, 0648-AV34
Measures To End Overfishing and Establish SFA Parameters..............................
265 2008 Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Recreational Fishery Management 0648-AV41
Measures..............................................................................
266 Individual Fishing Quota Omnibus V Action 2 and 4: Allow Longline Pot Gear in Bering 0648-AV64
Sea during June; Allow Mobilized Military Personnel To Make Temporary Individual
Fishing Quota Transfers...............................................................
267 Framework Adjustment 19 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan........... 0648-AV90
268 Amendment 89 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Bering Sea; Bering Sea Habitat 0648-AW06
Conservation Measures.................................................................
269 Revisions to Regulations for the Guided Sport Charter Vessel Fishery for Halibut in 0648-AW23
Regulatory Area 2C....................................................................
270 Revise Regulations To Exempt Certain Groundfish Catcher-Processors and Motherships 0648-AW28
From Check-In/Check-Out Requirements With Active Vessel Monitoring Systems (VMS)......
271 Framework Adjustment 5 to the Monkfish Fishery Management Plan........................ 0648-AW33
272 Amendment 26 to the Fishery Management Plan for Bering Sea/Aleutian Islands King and 0648-AW45
Tanner Crabs..........................................................................
273 Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS); Renewal of Atlantic Tunas Longline Limited 0648-AW46
Access Permits (LAPs); Atlantic Shark Identification Workshop Attendance Requirements.
274 Approval of Eliminator Trawl Gear for Special Management Programs; Northeast 0648-AW53
Multispecies Fishery..................................................................
275 Allocation of Trips to Closed Area II Yellowtail Flounder Special Access Program...... 0648-AW69
276 Framework Adjustment 6 to the Monkfish Fishery Management Plan........................ 0648-AW81
277 Right Whale Ship Strike Reduction..................................................... 0648-AS36
278 Amendment To Discharge Regulations in Gulf of the Farallones, Monterey Bay, and 0648-AW29
Cordell Banks National Marine Sanctuaries.............................................
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National Telecommunications and Information Administration--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identifier
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
279 Rulemaking To Waive the Household Eligibility and Application Process of the Coupon 0660-AA17
Program for Individuals Residing in Nursing Homes.....................................
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Patent and Trademark Office--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identifier
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
280 Fiscal Year 2009 Revision of Request for Continued Examination, 18-Month Publication, 0651-AC29
and Other Miscellaneous Cost-Recovery Patent Fees.....................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Patent and Trademark Office--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identifier
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
281 Examination of Patent Applications That Include Claims Containing Alternative Language 0651-AC00
282 Fiscal Year 2009 Changes to Patent Cooperation Treaty Search Fees..................... 0651-AC28
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[[Page 71330]]
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC) Long-Term Actions
International Trade Administration (ITA)
_______________________________________________________________________
190. 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
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
________________________________
191. 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 to 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 11/00/08
NPRM Comment Period End 12/00/08
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: D. Robert Lohn, 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
_______________________________________________________________________
192. 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 Transferable Quotas in the tilefish
fishery.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/08
NPRM Comment Period End 12/00/08
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
[[Page 71331]]
_______________________________________________________________________
193. 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 11/00/08
NPRM Comment Period End 12/00/08
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
_______________________________________________________________________
194. AMENDMENT TO COASTAL MIGRATORY PELAGICS FMP, RED DRUM FMP, REEF
FISH FMP, SPINY LOBSTER FMP, AND STONE CRAB FMP TO PROVIDE FOR
REGULATION OF MARINE AQUACULTURE
Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 20 in part II of this issue of
the Federal Register.
RIN: 0648-AS65
_______________________________________________________________________
195. 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 12/00/08
NPRM Comment Period End 02/00/09
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
_______________________________________________________________________
196. 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
_______________________________________________________________________
197. BSAI AMENDMENT 73 AND GOA AMENDMENT 77 FMP 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 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-AU20
_______________________________________________________________________
198. 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.
[[Page 71332]]
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/08
NPRM Comment Period End 01/00/09
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-AU36
_______________________________________________________________________
199. 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 and any national longline fishery which 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 establish prohibition of
U.S. vessels purse seine fishing for tuna in the Inter-American
Tropical Tuna Commission (IATTC) Convention Area from November 20 to
December 31 period, and to announce the closure of the U.S. longline
fishery. This will conform to the IATTC recommendation that was
approved by the State Department.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/08
NPRM Comment Period End 02/00/09
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-AU79
_______________________________________________________________________
200. 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 11/00/08
NPRM Comment Period End 12/00/08
Final Rule 01/00/09
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
_______________________________________________________________________
201. 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 12/00/08
NPRM Comment Period end 01/00/09
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
_______________________________________________________________________
202. CERTIFICATION OF NATIONS WHOSE FISHING VESSELS ARE ENGAGED IN IUU
FISHING OR BYCATCH OF PROTECTED LIVING MARINE RESOURCES
Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 21 in part II of this issue of
the Federal Register.
RIN: 0648-AV51
_______________________________________________________________________
203. 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 over 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
[[Page 71333]]
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 07/26/07 72 FR 41063
NPRM 11/00/08
NPRM Comment Period End 12/00/08
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-AV61
_______________________________________________________________________
204. 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 11/00/08
NPRM Comment Period End 12/00/08
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
_______________________________________________________________________
205. AMERICAN LOBSTER DATA COLLECTION AND BROODSTOCK PROTECTION MEASURES
Legal Authority: 16 USC 5101 et seq
Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service 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 Rule 02/00/09
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
_______________________________________________________________________
206. 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 are 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. 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
NPRM 11/00/08
NPRM Comment Period End 12/00/08
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
[[Page 71334]]
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AV80
_______________________________________________________________________
207. 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.
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: Many species of fish in the reef fish fishery in Puerto Rico
and the USVI are believed to be overexploited, largely due to trap
fishing and bycatch associated with this fishery. Landings from the
trap fishery have continuously decreased since 1990 in Puerto Rico;
species composition has changed; and size frequency of some fish has
decreased over the last 10 years. These effects have been attributed to
excessive trap fishing effort, lack of compliance with trap
construction requirements (i.e., fishers often do not use the required
biodegradable fasteners on trap doors), use of other gears by
commercial fishers (e.g., gill nets), and the lack of escape panels in
traps which would allow smaller fishes to escape, resulting in high
mortality of juveniles and a loss of long-term potential yield. Under
current fishing practices, bycatch and the associated mortality of
bycatch is not expected to be reduced sufficiently in the reef fish or
spiny lobster trap fisheries. Without a reduction in bycatch, those
stocks experiencing overfishing may become overfished, and those stocks
overfished may not meet the goals of the rebuilding plan set forth in
the Sustainable Fisheries Act Amendment of 2005. Therefore, the use of
escape panels as a management tool is proposed in this amendment to
help achieve the necessary reductions in fishing mortality among the
species harvested by traps.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 01/00/09
NPRM Comment Perioed End 02/00/09
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-AV98
_______________________________________________________________________
208. 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 12/00/08
NPRM Comment Period End 01/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: D. Robert Lohn, 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-AW08
_______________________________________________________________________
209. 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;
specify allocations for 10 species undergoing overfishing; reconsider
OY for 10 species undergoing overfishing; specify ABC Control Rules;
extend the range of the snapper grouper fishery management plan north
through the Mid-Atlantic Council's area of authority; promote fair and
equitable regulations in the commercial fishery for snowy grouper; 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
_______________________________________________________________________
210. 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 11/00/08
NPRM Comment Period End 12/00/08
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
[[Page 71335]]
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
_______________________________________________________________________
211. 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 to 2001 fishing
season. In 2005 to 2006 the commercial harvest was over four times
sustainable levels. Additionally, there is an unknown but significant
recreational harvest. Overfishing of queen conch has led to resource
collapse in other regions and in some cases, long-term resource loss.
According to the NMFS Report on the Status of the U.S. Fisheries for
2006, queen conch is overfished and undergoing overfishing. Under
current fishing practices, reductions in mortality are not expected to
be sufficient in the queen conch fishery. Without a reduction in
mortality, queen conch are not expected to achieve the rebuilding goals
established in the Sustainable Fisheries Amendment of 2005. Therefore,
a change in fishing practices is needed to help achieve the necessary
reductions in queen conch fishing mortality.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Intent 10/11/07 72 FR 58057
NPRM 11/00/08
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-AW15
_______________________________________________________________________
212. AMENDMENT 7 TO THE SOUTH ATLANTIC SHRIMP FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: The South Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) in
conjunction with NMFS intends to prepare a DEIS to assess the impacts
on the natural and human environment of the management measures
proposed in its draft Amendment 7 to the Fishery Management Plan (FMP)
for the Shrimp Fishery of the South Atlantic Region. Options will
address the 15,000-pound landings requirement for permits, permits that
may have been lost due to not meeting the 15,000-pound requirement or
failure to renew the limited entry permit, and requirements for all
shrimp permit holders to provide economic data if selected.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/08
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-AW19
_______________________________________________________________________
213. 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 11/00/08
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
_______________________________________________________________________
214. 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, the proposed actions
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
[[Page 71336]]
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 02/00/09
NPRM Comment Period End 03/00/09
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
_______________________________________________________________________
215. 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 and thorny skates, and prevent other skate species in the
complex from becoming overfished. It will establish a rebuilding
program for winter skate, and modify the Skate FMP to reduce fishing
mortality on the entire skate complex.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/08
NPRM Comment Period end 12/00/08
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
_______________________________________________________________________
216. 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: The Hawaii-based shallow-set longline fishery currently
operates under regulations that limit fishing effort and interactions
with sea turtles. This action would increase fishing opportunities,
while continuing to protected turtles and other protected resources.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/08
NPRM Comment Period End 01/00/09
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
_______________________________________________________________________
217. 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 11/00/08
NPRM Comment Period End 12/00/08
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Craig Heberer, Fisheries Biologist, Department of
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 501 West
Ocean Boulevard, Long Beach, CA 90802
Phone: 760 431-9440
Fax: 562 980-4047
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AW50
_______________________________________________________________________
218. 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 11/00/08
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
[[Page 71337]]
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
_______________________________________________________________________
219. AMENDMENT 16 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR
THE SNAPPER GROUPER FISHERY OF THE SOUTH ATLANTIC REGION
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
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 of DEIS 04/25/08 73 FR 22365
NPRM 02/00/09
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
_______________________________________________________________________
220. 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. This action is not significant under the
meaning of E.O. 12866 since it is below the economic threshold of
impact and has no novel policy issues associated with it. Additionally,
NMFS does not anticipate that major changes to shark management will
occur as a result of this action.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/08
NPRM Comment Period End 12/00/08
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
_______________________________________________________________________
221. 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 Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and
Management Reauthorization Act (MSRA) of 2006. The proposed objectives
of Amendment 4 are as follows: To implement measures to improve the
long-term monitoring of catch (landings and bycatch) in the herring
fishery; to implement Annual Catch Limits (ACLs) and Accountability
Measures (AMs) consistent with the MSRA; to implement other management
measures as necessary to ensure compliance with the new provisions of
the MSRA; to develop a sector allocation process or other Limited
Access Privilege Program (LAPP) for the herring fishery; and in the
context of the previous objectives, to consider the health of the
herring resource and the important role of herring as a forage fish and
predator fish throughout.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice 05/08/08 73 FR 26082
Notice Comment Period End 06/30/08
NPRM 11/00/08
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
_______________________________________________________________________
222. INTERIM ACTION TO REDUCE FISHING MORTALITY AND
MAINTAIN STOCK REBUILDING; NORTHEAST MULTISPECIES FISHERY
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: The Fishery Management Plan (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
[[Page 71338]]
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 of 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 11/00/08
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
_______________________________________________________________________
223. HALIBUT CHARTER VESSEL MORATORIUM
Legal Authority: 16 USC 773 to 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. The National Marine Fisheries Service 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 11/00/08
NPRM Comment Period End 01/00/09
Final Action 03/00/09
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
_______________________________________________________________________
224. ALLOWABLE MODIFICATIONS TO THE TURTLE EXCLUDER
DEVICE (TED) REQUIREMENTS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq
Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service proposes to revise the
turtle excluder device (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 11/00/08
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Michael Barnette, Department of Commerce, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St.
Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 551-5794
RIN: 0648-AW93
_______________________________________________________________________
225. 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: The National Marine Fisheries Service 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 for hook-and-line vessels less
than or equal to 55 feet length overall in portions of Area 4E. This
action is necessary to revise seabird avoidance regulations based on
the latest scientific information regarding the location of seabirds
and fishing activities and to reduce unnecessary regulatory burdens and
associated costs.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/08
NPRM Comment Period End 12/00/08
Final Rule 01/00/09
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-AW94
_______________________________________________________________________
226. REGULATORY AMENDMENT (#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
[[Page 71339]]
corrections are administrative in nature and are intended to correct
inaccurate references and other inadvertent errors and to clarify
specific regulations to maintain consistency with the intent of
Amendment 13 and subsequent actions.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/08
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
_______________________________________________________________________
227. 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 over harvest of
allocations.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/08
NPRM Comment Period End 12/00/08
Final Rule 01/00/09
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
_______________________________________________________________________
228. 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
_______________________________________________________________________
229. 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 from the 2008 annual meeting of the
International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas
(ICCAT). This rule is necessary to ensure that current swordfish quotas
account for underharvests and reserve transfer from the 2008 fishing
year, consistent with regulations at 50 CFR part 635 and ICCAT
recommendations that establish the U.S. North and South Atlantic
swordfish allocations. This proposed rule may also include other minor
regulatory clarifications.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 03/00/09
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
_______________________________________________________________________
230. 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 to 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 (ICCAT) 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 (FMP). Other BFT regulatory
[[Page 71340]]
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 01/00/09
NPRM Comment Period End 02/00/09
Final Action 03/00/09
Final Action Effective 04/00/09
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
_______________________________________________________________________
231. 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
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/08
Final Action 01/00/09
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
_______________________________________________________________________
232. 2009 ATLANTIC MACKEREL, SQUID, AND BUTTERFISH
SPECIFICATIONS AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: This action would establish 2009 specifications and
management measures for the MSB fisheries.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/08
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-AX16
_______________________________________________________________________
233. 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.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/08
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
_______________________________________________________________________
234. 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
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 03/22/07 72 FR 13464
NPRM Comment Period End 04/23/07
Second NPRM 12/00/08
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
[[Page 71341]]
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
RIN: 0648-AV15
_______________________________________________________________________
235. DESIGNATION OF CRITICAL HABITAT FOR THE ENDANGERED U.S. DISTINCT
POPULATION SEGMENT (DPS) OF 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 12/00/08
NPRM Comment Period End 02/00/09
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
_______________________________________________________________________
236. MARINE MAMMAL PROTECTION ACT PERMIT REGULATION REVISIONS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1374
Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is considering
proposing 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. Any recommendations
received in response to this advance notice of proposed rulemaking
regarding regulations at 50 CFR part 216 will be considered prior to
proposed rulemaking.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
ANPRM 09/13/07 72 FR 52339
Comment Period Extended to
December 13, 2007 10/15/07 72 FR 58279
ANPRM Comment Period End 11/13/07
NPRM 07/00/09
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
RIN: 0648-AV82
_______________________________________________________________________
237. 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 11/00/08
NPRM Comment Period End 01/00/09
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
_______________________________________________________________________
238. 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,
[[Page 71342]]
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 to 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 to May; establish
Cape Cod South Expansion and Eastern Cape Cod Consequence Closure
Areas; and require closure from February to 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 to March 15; and modify tie-down requirement.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 01/00/09
NPRM Comment Period End 02/00/09
Final Action 06/00/09
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
_______________________________________________________________________
239. 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
NPRM Comment Period End Extended12/05/08
Final Action 02/00/09
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
_______________________________________________________________________
240. 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
NPRM Comment Period End 12/22/08
Final Action 06/00/09
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-AX04
_______________________________________________________________________
241. RULE TO REVISE LEATHERBACK CRITICAL HABITAT
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq
Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service announces a rule to
revise leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea) critical habitat under
the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended. The leatherback is
currently listed as endangered throughout its range, and critical
habitat consists of Sandy Point Beach and adjacent waters, St. Croix,
U.S. Virgin Islands. This rule would revise critical habitat to include
waters along the U.S. West Coast.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/08
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
[[Page 71343]]
Fax: 301 713-0376
RIN: 0648-AX06
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC) Final Rule Stage
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
_______________________________________________________________________
NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE
________________________________
242. 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
Interim Final Rule 06/07/04 69 FR 31751
Interim Final Rule Comment
Period End 07/07/04
Final Action 11/00/08
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: D. Robert Lohn, 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
_______________________________________________________________________
243. 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
NPRM Comment Period Extended End04/04/08
Final Action 11/00/08
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
_______________________________________________________________________
244. WESTERN PACIFIC SQUID FISHERY
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 11/00/08
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
_______________________________________________________________________
245. 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 11/00/08
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-AU28
_______________________________________________________________________
246. 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
[[Page 71344]]
to 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
Comment Period End 04/19/07
Interim Final Rule 04/27/07 72 FR 20952
Interim Final Rule 09/21/07 72 FR 53942
Interim Final Rule Comment
Period End 10/22/07
Final Action 12/00/08
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
_______________________________________________________________________
247. 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
Final Action 11/00/08
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-AV14
_______________________________________________________________________
248. MAGNUSON-STEVENS FISHERY CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT
REAUTHORIZATION ACT (MSRA) ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW PROCEDURE
Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 24 in part II of this issue of
the Federal Register.
RIN: 0648-AV53
_______________________________________________________________________
249. GUIDANCE FOR ANNUAL CATCH LIMITS AND ACCOUNTABILITY MEASURES TO END
OVERFISHING
Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 25 in part II of this issue of
the Federal Register.
RIN: 0648-AV60
_______________________________________________________________________
250. 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 11/00/08
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
_______________________________________________________________________
251. 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
[[Page 71345]]
NPRM Comment Period End 11/03/09
Final Rule 01/00/09
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-AW73
_______________________________________________________________________
252. 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 Rule 01/00/09
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-AW85
_______________________________________________________________________
253. 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: Tanya Dobrzynski, Marine Resource Manager, Office of
Protected Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD
20910
Phone: 301 713-2289
RIN: 0648-AH26
_______________________________________________________________________
254. VIRGINIA MODIFIED POUND NET LEADER INSPECTION PROGRAM
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq
Abstract: With this action, the National Marine Fisheries Service
(NMFS) issues a rule to implement an inspection program for modified
pound net leaders in the Virginia waters of the mainstem Chesapeake
Bay. Previous regulations (71 FR 36024, June 23, 2006) required
modified pound net leaders in a portion of the Virginia Chesapeake Bay
from May 6 to July 15 each year, and this action would ensure that
leaders used in that area do in fact meet the definition of a modified
pound net leader. To comply with the inspection program, a pound net
fisherman intending to set a modified leader must call NMFS to arrange
for an inspection meeting. Then, the fisherman must meet NMFS and allow
for the inspection of his or her gear to ensure the modified leader
meets the definition of a modified pound net leader, as described in
the regulations. The purpose of this action is to help protect
threatened and endangered sea turtles, while enabling fishermen to use
leaders, an important component of pound net gear, during the regulated
period.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 03/01/07 72 FR 9297
NPRM Comment Period End 04/02/07
Final Action 11/00/08
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Carrie Upite, Fishery Biologist, Department of
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, One
Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9300
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AU98
_______________________________________________________________________
255. ENDANGERED AND THREATENED SPECIES; DESIGNATION OF CRITICAL HABITAT
FOR ELKHORN AND STAGHORN CORALS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 to 1544
Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service proposes to designate
critical habitat for elkhorn and staghorn corals, which we recently
listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Areas
proposed for designation will be within the current geographic ranges
of these species that are under U.S. jurisdiction, including areas in
Southeast Florida, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Comments
from the public on all aspects of the proposal, including information
on the economic, national security, and other
[[Page 71346]]
relevant impacts of the proposed designation, as well as the benefits
to elkhorn and staghorn corals from 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 proposal.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 02/06/08 73 FR 6895
Correction 03/06/08 73 FR 12068
NPRM Comment Period End 05/06/08
Final Action 11/00/08
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-AV35
_______________________________________________________________________
256. 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
including both regulatory and non-regulatory measures. Regulatory
measures include: (1) Limiting the mainline length to 20 nautical miles
or 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 to 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 02/00/09
Final Rule Effective 03/00/09
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
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC) Completed Actions
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
_______________________________________________________________________
257. AMENDMENT 9 TO THE ATLANTIC MACKEREL, SQUID, AND BUTTERFISH FISHERY
MANAGEMENT PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: Amendment 9 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish
(MSB) Fishery Management Plan (FMP) was developed by the Mid-Atlantic
Fishery Management Council to remedy deficiencies in the FMP and to
address other issues that have arisen since Amendment 8 to the MSB FMP
became effective in 1998. Amendment 9 to the MSB FMP considers:
Allowing multi-year specifications and management measures; extending
or eliminating the moratorium on entry into the directed Illex fishery;
revising current biological reference points for Loligo; designating
essential fish habitat (EFH) for Loligo eggs; implementing closures of
EFH areas to reduce gear impacts from MSB fisheries; increasing the
Loligo possession limit for Illex vessels during a closure of the
Loligo fishery; and requiring real-time electronic reporting via a
vessel monitoring system in the Illex fishery.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice Of Availability 03/25/08 73 FR 15716
NPRM 04/04/08 73 FR 18483
NPRM Comment Period End 05/19/08
Final Action 07/01/08 73 FR 37382
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-AP60
_______________________________________________________________________
258. AMENDMENT 72 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE GROUNDFISH OF
THE GULF OF ALASKA
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: This amendment would revise the Gulf of Alaska (GOA)
Groundfish Fishery Management Plan to state that the Council will
annually review the discards of shallow-water flatfish in Gulf of
Alaska groundfish fisheries. After review of this annual report, the
Council may recommend revisions to the retention and utilization
requirements if the discard rate for shallow-water flatfish falls above
or below a specified threshold. This fishery management plan has no
implementing regulations.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Intent 05/28/08 73 FR 30598
[[Page 71347]]
Final Action 08/29/08 73 FR 50888
Final Action Effective 10/25/08
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-AR72
_______________________________________________________________________
259. AMEND SUBSISTENCE HALIBUT FISHING REGULATIONS IN WATERS IN AND OFF
ALASKA
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq; 16 USC 773 et seq
Abstract: This regulatory action amends the subsistence fishery rules
for Pacific halibut in waters in and off Alaska. This action proposes
six changes to the subsistence halibut regulations that would: (1)
Revise the subsistence gear restrictions in Kodiak and add seasonal
gear and vessel limits in Sitka Sound; (2) add the village of Naukati
to the list of eligible subsistence halibut communities; (3) implement
a possession limit to enhance enforcement; (4) revise the definition of
charter vessel; (5) revise regulations allowing customary trade; and
(6) allow the use of special permits within non-subsistence use areas
by tribes eligible for the permits. Additional administrative revisions
to regulations include converting the gear and harvest restrictions
from text to table format and revising language to consistently refer
to Sitka Sound rather than Sitka LAMP. These regulations are necessary
to address subsistence halibut management concerns in densely populated
areas. This action is intended to support the conservation and
management provisions of the Northern Pacific Halibut Act of 1982.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 04/14/08 73 FR 20008
NPRM Comment Period End 05/14/08
Final Action 09/24/08 73 FR 54932
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-AU14
_______________________________________________________________________
260. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES; INTERNATIONAL TRADE PERMIT
REGULATORY AMENDMENT
Legal Authority: 16 USC 971 et seq; 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Species makes regulatory
changes to the highly migratory species (HMS) international trade
program, which encompasses dealer permitting and reporting for
international trade of swordfish, bluefin tuna, and bigeye tuna. The
regulatory changes will include adjustments to improve program efficacy
and consistency with regulations of other U.S. agencies.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 04/04/08 73 FR 18473
NPRM Comment Period End 05/05/08
Final Action 06/02/08 73 FR 31380
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-AU88
_______________________________________________________________________
261. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES; ATLANTIC SHARK MANAGEMENT
MEASURES
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: This rule would reevaluate the management measures for large
coastal sharks (LCS) and pelagic sharks based on the 2005/2006 LCS
stock assessment, the 2006 dusky shark stock assessment, and the
Canadian 2005 porbeagle shark stock assessment. This rulemaking could
consider, among other things, changes to existing rebuilding plans for
overfished species, commercial quotas and trip limits, recreational
minimum size and bag limits, and the public display quota. In addition,
this rule would likely reevaluate the Mid-Atlantic shark closure and
its role in the rebuilding plan for LCS. This action is necessary in
light of recent stock assessments, which have determined that dusky and
sandbar sharks are overfished with overfishing occurring, the status is
unknown for the Atlantic blacktip shark population, and porbeagle
sharks are likely overfished. In addition, the 2005/2006 LCS stock
assessment determined it is inappropriate to assess the LCS complex as
a whole, which has been the basis of managing these species since 1993.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 07/27/07 72 FR 41392
NPRM Comment Period Reopened 10/03/07 72 FR 56330
NPRM Comment Period End 10/10/07
Comment Period End 11/02/07
Final Action 06/24/08 73 FR 35778
Correction 07/15/08 73 FR 40658
Final Rule Announcing OMB
Approval for PRA 08/14/08 73 FR 47851
Correction 08/15/08 73 FR 47851
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-AU89
_______________________________________________________________________
262. AMENDMENT 25 THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN IN THE BERING SEA AND
ALEUTIAN ISLANDS KING AND TANNER CRAB FISHERIES OFF ALASKA
Legal Authority: 16 USC 773 to 773k; 16 USC 1801; 16 USC 3631
Abstract: On January 12, 2007, the President signed the Magnuson-
Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Reauthorization Act of
2006, which requires the Secretary of Commerce (Secretary), not later
than 90 days after the date of enactment of that Act, to amend the
Fishery Management Plan for the Bering Sea/Aleutian Islands King and
Tanner Crabs (FMP) to
[[Page 71348]]
authorize conversion of catcher vessel owner quota shares and processor
quota shares to newly created North Region catcher/processor owner
quota shares. Proposed Amendment 25 to the FMP would satisfy this
requirement. Proposed Amendment 25 to the Fishery Management Plan in
the BSAI King and Tanner Crab Fisheries would promote the goals and
objectives of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management
Act (Magnuson-Stevens Act), the FMP, and other applicable laws.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NOA 02/05/07 72 FR 5255
NPRM 02/15/08 73 FR 8838
NPRM Comment Period End 03/17/08
Final Action 05/23/08 73 FR 29979
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-AV19
_______________________________________________________________________
263. FISHERIES IN THE WESTERN PACIFIC; PRECIOUS CORALS FISHERIES;
FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR AMENDMENT 7--GOLD AND BLACK CORAL MANAGEMENT
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: Amendment 7 to the Fishery Management Plan for Precious Coral
Fisheries in the Western Pacific would establish the Auau Channel,
Hawaii, black coral bed as an established bed with an annual harvest
quota of 5,000 kg every 2 years, and would place a 5-year moratorium on
the harvest of gold coral in the Western Pacific.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice Of Availability 05/23/08 73 FR 30038
Proposed Rule 05/30/08 73 FR 31047
NPRM Comment Period End 07/14/08
Final Rule 08/13/08 73 FR 47098
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-AV30
_______________________________________________________________________
264. REEF FISH AMENDMENT 30A FOR GREATER AMBERJACK AND GRAY TRIGGERFISH:
TAC ADJUSTMENTS, MEASURES TO END OVERFISHING AND ESTABLISH SFA
PARAMETERS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: Greater amberjack are under a rebuilding plan. A 2006 stock
assessment (SEDAR 9) concluded the stock is not recovering as
projected. It continues to be overfished and is undergoing overfishing.
Adjustments to TAC and management measures are needed to end
overfishing and bring the recovery of the greater amberjack stock back
into compliance with its ten-year rebuilding time frame. Gray
triggerfish were determined to be undergoing overfishing based on a
2006 stock assessment (SEDAR 9). Management measures are necessary to
end overfishing of gray triggerfish. Additionally, the Council has not
yet approved post-Sustainable Fisheries Act (SFA) benchmarks and
reference points for gray triggerfish.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 04/08/08 73 FR 19040
NPRM Comment Period End 05/23/08
Final Action 07/03/08 73 FR 38139
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-AV34
_______________________________________________________________________
265. 2008 SUMMER FLOUNDER, SCUP, AND BLACK SEA BASS RECREATIONAL FISHERY
MANAGEMENT MEASURES
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: This action would establish the recreational management
measures (minimum fish size, possession limits, and fishing seasons)
for the 2008 summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass recreational
fisheries. The annual recreational management measures are considered
to be annual specifications. This action initially assigned to the 2008
fluke, scup, and BSB specifications; that action published under 0648-
XC84 (X-RIN) because the action contained no implementing regulations.
This action was reassigned to the recreational management measures on
January 23, 2008.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 03/21/08 73 FR 15111
NPRM Comment Period End 04/21/08
Final Rule 05/23/08 73 FR 29990
Correction 06/04/08 73 FR 31769
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-AV41
_______________________________________________________________________
266. INDIVIDUAL FISHING QUOTA OMNIBUS V ACTION 2 AND 4: ALLOW LONGLINE
POT GEAR IN BERING SEA DURING JUNE; ALLOW MOBILIZED MILITARY PERSONNEL
TO MAKE TEMPORARY INDIVIDUAL FISHING QUOTA TRANSFERS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: The regulatory action amends existing commercial fishing
regulations at 50 CFR part 679. The amendment would enhance the
management of the halibut and sablefish Individual Fishing Quota (IFQ)
fisheries, as well as the sablefish Community Development Quota (CDQ)
fishery. In June 2006, the North Pacific Fishery Management Council
recommended a suite of four amendments to the halibut and sablefish IFQ
fishery regulations, otherwise known as OMNI V. This proposed action
addresses Action 2 and Action 4 of the Council's proposed regulatory
amendments. The action would amend regulations to (1) Allow the use of
longline pot gear in the Bering Sea sablefish IFQ and CDQ
[[Page 71349]]
fisheries during the month of June; and (2) allow the temporary
transfer of IFQ held by mobilized reservists and guardsmen.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 03/05/08 73 FR 11851
NPRM Comment Period End 04/04/08
Final Action 05/19/08 73 FR 28733
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-AV64
_______________________________________________________________________
267. FRAMEWORK ADJUSTMENT 19 TO THE ATLANTIC SEA SCALLOP FISHERY
MANAGEMENT PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: Framework 19 would establish management measures for the
scallop fishery for the 2008 and 2009 fishing years. It will include
measures to implement new management measures developed and implemented
under Amendment 11 to the Scallop FMP, if approved. Management measures
in Framework 19 would include scallop days-at-sea and trip allocations,
new area closures and/or access areas, and allocations for scallop
fishing in the groundfish closed areas. It would also include
improvements to some current management measures to make management of
the scallop fishery more efficient and effective.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 03/19/08 73 FR 14748
NPRM Comment Period End 04/08/08
Final Rule 05/29/08 73 FR 30790
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-AV90
_______________________________________________________________________
268. AMENDMENT 89 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE BERING SEA;
BERING SEA HABITAT CONSERVATION MEASURES
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: This regulatory amendment would implement Amendment 89 to the
Fishery Management Plan for Groundfish of the Bering Sea and Aleutian
Islands Management Area. The regulations would prohibit nonpelagic
trawling in certain areas of the Bering Sea subarea to protect bottom
habitat and certain nearshore bottom habitat areas that provide
subsistence resources. The amendment also would provide for a Northern
Bering Sea research area where the effects of nonpelagic trawling may
be studied.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 03/07/08 73 FR 12357
NPRM Comment Period End 04/21/08
Final Action 07/25/08 73 FR 43362
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-AW06
_______________________________________________________________________
269. REVISIONS TO REGULATIONS FOR THE GUIDED SPORT CHARTER VESSEL
FISHERY FOR HALIBUT IN REGULATORY AREA 2C
Legal Authority: 16 USC 773 to 773k
Abstract: The proposed action would implement management measures to
reduce the charter halibut fishery harvest in Area 2C to the GHL.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/31/07 72 FR 74257
NPRM Comment Period End 01/30/08
Final Action 05/28/08 73 FR 30504
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-AW23
_______________________________________________________________________
270. REVISE REGULATIONS TO EXEMPT CERTAIN GROUNDFISH CATCHER-PROCESSORS
AND MOTHERSHIPS FROM CHECK-IN/CHECK-OUT REQUIREMENTS WITH ACTIVE VESSEL
MONITORING SYSTEMS (VMS)
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: This regulatory amendment would exempt groundfish catcher-
processors (CPs) and motherships carrying a transmitting vessel
monitoring system (VMS) unit from check-in and check-out requirements
in Alaska Region groundfish fishing regulations. The current check-in/
out regulation requires CPs and motherships to submit check-in/out
reports before they deploy gear in, or begin to process fish from,
Federal management areas off Alaska. Additional reports are required
for the use of additional gears, or for changes in the status (e.g.,
community development quota, exempted permit) of the fish being
targeted. For many years the Alaska Region has required groundfish CPs
and mothership vessels to file check-in check-out reports. This
information was used for in-season management. However, in recent years
new sources of information have become available, such as VMS, which
make check in/out reports unnecessary.
This action is expected to reduce industry costs by about $60,000 per
year and to reduce public administrative costs by about $40,000 per
year. This rule is not anticipating additional costs.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 05/29/08 73 FR 30876
NPRM Comment Period End 06/30/08
Final Action 09/16/08 73 FR 53390
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
[[Page 71350]]
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249
RIN: 0648-AW28
_______________________________________________________________________
271. FRAMEWORK ADJUSTMENT 5 TO THE MONKFISH FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: Framework Adjustment 5 to the Monkfish FMP will update the
biological reference points in the Monkfish FMP to be consistent with
the most recent monkfish stock assessment (i.e., July 2007 Northeast
Data Poor Stocks working Group). In addition, this action will reduce
carryover days-at-sea (DAS); eliminate a provision that allows gillnet
vessels to land monkfish on trips less than 3-hours and only be charged
for the actual time fished; establish a restrictive monkfish incidental
catch limit for vessels that are fishing in the Southern New England
Regulated Mesh Area (as defined under the Northeast Multispecies FMP)
east of 72 degrees 30 feet west longitude; and eliminate the
requirement to obtain a letter of authorization to fish in the Northern
Fishery Management Area for vessels that are using a vessel monitoring
system.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 03/04/08 73 FR 11606
NPRM Comment Period End 03/25/08
Final Action 04/28/08 73 FR 22831
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-AW33
_______________________________________________________________________
272. AMENDMENT 26 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR BERING SEA/ALEUTIAN
ISLANDS KING AND TANNER CRABS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: Amendment 26 to the FMP would amend the FMP to exempt quota
share issued to crew members, and the annual harvest privileges derived
from that quota share, from requirements for: delivery to specific
processors; delivery within specific geographic regions; and
participation in an arbitration system to resolve price disputes. 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 03/31/08 73 FR 16830
NPRM Comment Period End 05/15/08
Final Action 06/20/08 73 FR 35084
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: James Balsiger, Department of Commerce, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 709 West Ninth Street, Juneau,
AK 99801
Phone: 907 586-7221
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AW45
_______________________________________________________________________
273. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES (HMS); RENEWAL OF ATLANTIC TUNAS
LONGLINE LIMITED ACCESS PERMITS (LAPS); ATLANTIC SHARK IDENTIFICATION
WORKSHOP ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: This rule would amend the regulations governing the renewal
of Atlantic tunas longline LAPs, and workshop attendance requirements
for businesses issued Atlantic shark dealer permits. Specifically,
these regulatory changes would allow for the renewal of Atlantic tunas
longline LAPs that have been expired for more than one year, if an
otherwise qualified permit holder has maintained their associated
swordfish and shark LAPs through timely renewal. Also, the rule would
modify the Atlantic Shark Identification Workshop attendance
requirements for businesses issued Atlantic shark dealer permits that
have more than one dealer location listed on their permit. The
regulations would specify that a dealer must submit a Atlantic Shark
Identification Workshop certificate (dealer or proxy) for each place of
business where Atlantic sharks are received, rather than from each
location listed on their dealer permit.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 04/11/08 73 FR 19795
NPRM Comment Period End 05/12/08
Final Rule 07/03/08 73 FR 38144
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-AW46
_______________________________________________________________________
274. APPROVAL OF ELIMINATOR TRAWL GEAR FOR SPECIAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS;
NORTHEAST MULTISPECIES FISHERY
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: This action would authorize the use of the `eliminator trawl'
gear for use in two special management programs of the Northeast
Multispecies Fishery. The Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management
Plan (FMP) specifies a procedure for approval of additional gear for
two of the Special Management Programs (Eastern U.S./Canada Haddock
Special Access Program and Regular B Days-at-Sea Program). At the
request of the New England Fishery Management Council (Council), the
Regional Administrator may authorize additional gear if, based upon an
experiment, the gear satisfies existing standards. On February 13,
2008, the Council sent a letter to the National Marine Fisheries
Service (NMFS) requesting that it authorize the proposed trawl gear.
Based upon a preliminary review of the experimental data, the proposed
eliminator trawl net meets one of the current gear standards. The
implementation of new gear requirement would provide another option for
vessels fishing in these Special Management Programs, which could
provide additional flexibility for the industry. Further, authorization
of the net would enhance industry and NMFS efforts to reduce bycatch in
the FMP.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 05/20/08 73 FR 29098
[[Page 71351]]
NPRM Comment Period End 06/04/08
Final Action 07/14/08 73 FR 40186
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-AW53
_______________________________________________________________________
275. ALLOCATION OF TRIPS TO CLOSED AREA II YELLOWTAIL
FLOUNDER SPECIAL ACCESS PROGRAM
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: This action would set allocations for Trips to Closed Area II
Yellowtail Flounder Special Access Program for 2008 fishing year.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 05/06/08 73 FR 24936
NPRM Comment Period End 05/21/08
Final Rule 06/04/08 73 FR 31770
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-AW69
_______________________________________________________________________
276. FRAMEWORK ADJUSTMENT 6 TO THE MONKFISH FISHERY
MANAGEMENT PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: The proposed action would eliminate the backstop provision
adopted in Framework 4. This provision would have adjusted, and
potentially closed, the directed monkfish fishery in 2009 if the
monkfish landings in the 2007 fishing year (FY) exceeded the target
total allowable catch (TTAC). Available landings information for FY
2007 indicates that the TTAC will be exceeded by 30 percent in the
Southern Fishery Management Area. Given the most recent information on
the status of the monkfish stocks, and the expected minimal biological
impact of a 30-percent TTAC overage on stock status, based on the
revised reference points established through the recently implemented
Framework Adjustment 5 to the FMP (73 FR 22831; April 28, 2008), the
backstop provision is deemed no longer necessary.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 07/10/08 73 FR 39643
NPRM Comment Period End 08/11/08
Final Action 09/10/08 73 FR 52635
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-AW81
_______________________________________________________________________
277. RIGHT WHALE SHIP STRIKE REDUCTION
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361
Abstract: These regulations would establish speed restrictions to
reduce the number of deaths to North Atlantic right whales as a result
of collisions with vessels, which account for more confirmed right
whale deaths than any other anthropogenic cause. Speed restrictions
would be limited to areas and times when North Atlantic right whales
and ships overlap to reduce the likelihood of ship strikes to the
extent practicable.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
ANPRM 06/01/04 69 FR 30857
ANPRM Comment Period Extended 07/09/04 69 FR 41446
ANPRM Comment Period Extended 09/13/04 69 FR 55135
NPRM 06/26/06 71 FR 36299
Comment Period Extended 08/14/06 71 FR 46440
NPRM Comment Period End 08/25/06
Comment Period End 10/05/06
Final Action 10/10/08 73 FR 60173
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
RIN: 0648-AS36
_______________________________________________________________________
278. AMENDMENT TO DISCHARGE REGULATIONS IN GULF OF THE FARALLONES,
MONTEREY BAY, AND CORDELL BANKS NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARIES
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Duplicate of RINs 0648-AT14,
AT15 and AT16 11/06/08
RIN: 0648-AW29
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC) Completed Actions
National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA)
_______________________________________________________________________
279. RULEMAKING TO WAIVE THE HOUSEHOLD ELIGIBILITY
AND APPLICATION PROCESS OF THE COUPON PROGRAM FOR INDIVIDUALS RESIDING
IN NURSING HOMES
Legal Authority: PL 109-171
Abstract: In this document, the National Telecommunications and
Information Administration (NTIA) proposes certain changes affecting
section 301.3 of its Digital-To-Analog Converter Box Coupon Program
rules. 47 CFR section 301.3. Specifically, NTIA proposes to waive the
``eligible household'' and application requirements in section
301.3(a), and section 301.3(e), for individuals residing in nursing
homes or other senior care facilities, subject to alternative
application requirements specified herein. NTIA also proposes to amend
section 301.3(a)(2) to permit an
[[Page 71352]]
otherwise eligible household that utilizes a post office box for mail
receipt to apply for and receive coupons subject to providing
satisfactory proof of physical residence as specified herein.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 04/24/08 73 FR 22120
NPRM Comment Period End 06/09/08
Final Rule 09/19/08 73 FR 54325
Final Action Effective 10/20/08
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Milton Brown, Deputy Chief Counsel, Department of
Commerce, National Telecommunications and Information Administration,
14th & Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-1816
Fax: 202 501-8013
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0660-AA17
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC) Proposed Rule Stage
Patent and Trademark Office (PTO)
_______________________________________________________________________
280. FISCAL YEAR 2009 REVISION OF REQUEST FOR
CONTINUED EXAMINATION, 18-MONTH PUBLICATION, AND OTHER MISCELLANEOUS
COST-RECOVERY PATENT FEES
Legal Authority: 35 USC 2(b)(2); 35 USC 41(d); 35 USC 132(b)
Abstract: The USPTO is proposing to revise the rules of practice to
adjust the fee or set a fee for certain processes and services for
which the USPTO is required to set a cost-recovery fee. The USPTO is
specifically proposing to adjust the fee for a request for continued
examination, 18-month publication, and a certificate of correction
(applicant's mistake) fee, and set a fee for requesting a corrected
republication of a patent application publication. The rules of
practice currently do not set a fee, or do not set a fee that recovers
the USPTO's costs, for these processes or services. The USPTO is
proposing to adjust or set these fee amounts such that they more
accurately reflect the Office costs for these processes or services.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/08
NPRM Comment Period End 01/00/09
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr, Senior Patent Attorney, Department of
Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, Mail Stop Comments-Patents,
Commissioner for Patents, P. O. Box 1450, Alexandria, VA 22313
Phone: 571 272-8800
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0651-AC29
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC) Final Rule Stage
Patent and Trademark Office (PTO)
_______________________________________________________________________
281. EXAMINATION OF PATENT APPLICATIONS THAT INCLUDE CLAIMS CONTAINING
ALTERNATIVE LANGUAGE
Legal Authority: 35 USC 2(b)(2)
Abstract: The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (Office) is considering
revising the rules of practice to address Markush-type and other claims
written so as to claim an invention in the alternative. The search and
examination of Markush-type and other claims written in the alternative
generally consume a disproportionate amount of Office resources as
compared to other types of claims, because these claims can encompass
multiple independent and distinct inventions and determining the
patentability of such a claim may require a separate examination of
each of the alternatives within the claim. The Office anticipates that
requiring applicants who choose this claim-drafting format to ensure a
certain degree of relatedness among the members of a Markush group or
the alternatives presented in the claims will allow the Office to do a
better, more thorough and reliable examination of Markush-type and
other claims written in the alternative.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 08/10/07 72 FR 44992
NPRM Comment Period End 10/09/07
NPRM 03/10/08 73 FR 12679
NPRM Comment Period End 04/09/08
Final Action 11/00/08
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr, Senior Patent Attorney, Department of
Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, Mail Stop Comments-Patents,
Commissioner for Patents, P. O. Box 1450, Alexandria, VA 22313
Phone: 571 272-8800
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0651-AC00
_______________________________________________________________________
282. FISCAL YEAR 2009 CHANGES TO PATENT COOPERATION
TREATY SEARCH FEES
Legal Authority: 35 USC 2(b)(2) ; 35 USC 376
Abstract: The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is
proposing to revise the rules of practice to adjust the transmittal and
search fees for international applications filed under the Patent
Cooperation Treaty (PCT). The USPTO is proposing to adjust the PCT
transmittal and search fees to recover the estimated average cost to
the USPTO of processing PCT international applications and preparing
international search reports and written opinions for PCT international
applications.
[[Page 71353]]
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 06/18/08 73 FR 34672
NPRM Comment Period End 08/18/08
Final Action 11/00/08
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr, Senior Patent Attorney, Department of
Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, P.O. Box 1450, Alexandria, VA
22313-1450
Phone: 571 272-8800
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0651-AC28
[FR Doc. E8-21259 Filed 11-21-08; 8:45 am]
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