Western Pacific Fishery Management Council; Public Meetings, 9522-9524 [E6-2720]

Download as PDF 9522 Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 37 / Friday, February 24, 2006 / Notices Dated: February 16, 2006. Joseph A. Spetrini, Acting Assistant Secretaryfor Import Administration. [FR Doc. E6–2674 Filed 2–23–06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3510–DS–S DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE International Trade Administration [A–821–802] Extension of Time Limit for Sunset Review of the Agreement Suspending the Antidumping Investigation on Uranium from the Russian Federation Import Administration, International Trade Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce. EFFECTIVE DATE: February 24, 2006. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Sally C. Gannon or Aishe Allen, Import Administration, International Trade Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce, 14th Street & Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20230; (202) 482–0162 or (202) 482–0172, respectively. AGENCY: SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: wwhite on PROD1PC65 with NOTICES Extension of Time Limit for Sunset Review: 18:03 Feb 23, 2006 Jkt 208001 Dated: February 17, 2006. Carole Showers, Acting Director Office of Policy. [FR Doc. E6–2677 Filed 2–23–06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3510–DS–S On November 10, 2005, the Department of Commerce (‘‘the Department’’) extended the time limit for the sunset review of the agreement suspending the antidumping investigation on uranium from the Russian Federation in accordance with section 751(c)(5)(B) of the Tariff Act of 1930, as amended (‘‘the Act’’). See, Extension of Time Limit for Sunset Review of the Agreement Suspending the Antidumping Investigation on Uranium from the Russian Federation, 70 FR 68397 (November 10, 2005) (‘‘Notice of Extension’’). On January 17, 2006, the Department determined to conduct a full sunset review of this suspended investigation. See, Memorandum from Sally C. Gannon to Ronald K. Lorentzen; ‘‘Sunset Review of Uranium from the Russian Federation: Adequacy of Domestic and Respondent Interested Party Responses to the Notice of Initiation and Decision to Conduct Full Sunset Review,’’ dated January 17, 2006. On January 24, 2006, the Department determined to provide an additional extension of the time limit for the preliminary results of this sunset review until February 17, 2006. See, Extension of Time Limit for Sunset Review of the Agreement Suspending the Antidumping Investigation on VerDate Aug<31>2005 Uranium from the Russian Federation, 71 FR 3824 (January 24, 2006). Pursuant to section 351.218(f) of the Department’s regulations, the Department normally will issue its preliminary results in a full sunset review not later that 110 days after the date of publication in the Federal Register of the notice of initiation. However, as determined in the Notice of Extension, the sunset review of the agreement suspending the antidumping investigation on uranium from the Russian Federation is extraordinarily complicated and requires additional time for the Department to complete its analysis. Therefore, the Department is extending the deadline for the preliminary results in this proceeding by an additional 35 days and, as a result, intends to issue the preliminary results of the full sunset review no later than March 24, 2006. The Department will issue its final results of the full sunset review on May 30, 2006, as specified in the Notice of Extension. This notice is issued in accordance with sections 751(c)(5)(B) and (C)(v) of the Act. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration [I.D. 021506E] Western Pacific Fishery Management Council; Public Meetings National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Commerce. ACTION: Notice of public meetings and hearings. AGENCY: SUMMARY: The Western Pacific Fishery Management Council (Council) will hold several public hearings in Hawaii to seek input on measures to end bottomfish overfishing in Hawaii and options for fishing regulations for bottomfish and pelagics in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands (NWHI). Further, the Council will hold its 131st meeting and convene a meeting of its Advisory Panel to consider and take actions on fishery management issues in the Western Pacific Region. DATES: The 131st Council meeting and Advisory Panel meetings will be held on March 13 – 16, 2006. The public PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 hearings on the Hawaii bottomfish overfishing options and NWHI Fishing regulations will be held in March 2006. See SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION for specific times and times of these public hearings. ADDRESSES: The 131st Council meeting and Advisory Panel meetings and public hearings will be held at the Ala Moana Hotel, 410 Atkinson Drive, Honolulu, HI; telephone: (808) 955–4811. See SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION for specific locations of the public hearings on the bottomfish overfishing options and NWHI Fishing regulations. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Kitty M. Simonds, Executive Director; telephone: (808) 522–8220. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The location, dates, and times for the public hearings on bottomfish overfishing options and NWHI fishing regulations are listed below: 1. Kahului, Maui, Hawaii—Thursday, March 2, 2006, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m,. at the Maui Beach Hotel, 170 Kaahumanu Ave., Kahului, HI 96732; 2. Hana, Maui, Hawaii—Friday, March 3, 2006, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., at the Helene Social Hall, Hana Bay Rd., Hana, HI 96713; 3. Hilo, Hawaii—Monday, March 6, 2006, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., at the University of Hawaii, Hilo Campus Center, 200 W. Kawili St., Hilo, HI 96720; 4. Naalehu, Hawaii—Tuesday, March 7, 2006, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., at the Naalehu Elementary School, 95545 Mamalahoa Hwy, Naalehu, HI 96772; 5. Kohala, Hawaii—Wednesday, March 8, 2006, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., at the Kohala High School, 54–3611 Akoni Pule Hwy, Kapaau, HI 96755; 6. Kaunakakai, Molokai, Hawaii— Thursday, March 9, 2006, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., at the Mitchell Pauole Center Conference Room, 90 Ainoa St., Kaunakakai, HI 96748; 7. Kapaa, Kauai, Hawaii—Friday, March 10, 2006, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., at the Kapaa High School, 4695 Mailihuna Rd., Kapaa, HI; 8. Oahu, Hawaii—Tuesday, March 14, 2006, from 6 to 9 p.m., at the Ala Moana Hotel, 410 Atkinson Dr., Honolulu, HI 96815; 9. Oahu, Hawaii—Wednesday, March 15, 2006, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the Ala Moana Hotel, 410 Atkinson Dr., Honolulu, HI 96815; 10. Oahu, Hawaii Thursday, March 16, 2006, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the Ala Moana Hotel, 410 Atkinson Dr., Honolulu, HI 96815; For more information on public hearing items, see BACKGROUND INFORMATION. E:\FR\FM\24FEN1.SGM 24FEN1 Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 37 / Friday, February 24, 2006 / Notices wwhite on PROD1PC65 with NOTICES The schedule and agenda for the Council Advisory Panel meeting will include the items listed here. 8 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., Monday, March 13, 2006 A. Introduction and overview B. Council Action Items 1. Pelagics Management a. Bigeye and Other Tuna Conservation b. American Samoa Limited Entry Program Update 2. Bottomfish Management a. MHI Bottomfish Overfishing 3. Ecosystems and Habitat Management a. NWHI Fishing Regulations b. Fishery Ecosystem Plans 4. Fishery Rights of Indigenous People a. Communities Program b. Marine Conservation Plans 5. Other Issues C. Discussion in Island Area Groups 1. American Samoa 2. Guam 3. CNMI 4. Hawai D. Discussion by Advisory Panel Subpanels 1. Commercial Panel 2. Recreational Panel 3. Subsistence Panel 4. Ecosystems & Habitat Panel 8 a.m. – 1 p.m., Tuesday, March 14, 2006 E. Sub-Panel Chairman Reports 1. Commercial Advisory Panel Report and Recommendations 2. Recreational Advisory Panel Report and Recommendations 3. Ecosystem and Habitat Advisory Panel Report and Recommendations 4. Indigenous and Subsistence Advisory Panel Report and Recommendations 5. Discussion 6. Other issues 7. Full Panel Discussion and Recommendations 8. Other Business In addition to the agenda items listed here, the Council will hear recommendations from other Council advisory groups. Public comment periods will be provided throughout the agenda. The order in which agenda items are addressed may change. The Council will meet as late as necessary to complete scheduled business. The schedule for Council Standing Committee meetings is listed here. Monday, March 13, 2006 Standing Committee 1. 7:30 a.m. – 9 a.m., Enforcement/ Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) Standing Committee 2. 9 a.m. – 11 a.m., Ecosystems & Habitat Standing Committee VerDate Aug<31>2005 18:03 Feb 23, 2006 Jkt 208001 3. 10 a.m. – 12 noon, Pelagics & International Standing Commmittee 4. 1 p.m. – 3 p.m., Bottomfish Standing Committee 5. 3 p.m. – 5 p.m., Program Planning, Executive, and Budget Standing Committee The agenda during the full Council meeting will include the items listed here. Schedule and Agenda for Council Meeting 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m., Tuesday, March 14, 2006 1. Introductions 2. Approval of agenda 3. Approval of 129th and 130th meeting minutes 4. Island reports and Island Enforcement Agency Reports A. American Samoa B. Guam C. Hawaii D. CNMI 5. Reports from fishery agencies and organizations A. Department of Commerce a. NMFS i. Pacific Islands Regional Office ii. Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center B. The Department of the Interior a. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) C. NOAA General Counsel Southwest Region/Pacific Islands Region D. Department of State 6. Enforcement/vessel monitoring systems A. U.S. Coast Guard activities B. NOAA Office of Law Enforcement (OLE) Activities C. Status of Violations D. Standing Committee Recommendations 7. Fishery Rights of Indigenous People A. Communities Program B. CDPP Update C. Advisory Panel Recommendations 8. Precious Coral Fisheries A. Black Coral Management and Research a. Black Coral Amendment Update b. Black Coral Workshop Plan B. SSC Recommendations 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m., Wednesday, March 15, 2006 9. Bottomfish Fisheries A. Bottomfish Management a. PIFSC Report on Hawaii Bottomfish b. MHI Bottomfish Overfishing Measures c. Assessment of existing and designation of new State of Hawaii bottomfish Restricted Fishing Areas (RFA) B. Plan Team Recommendations C. Advisory Panel Recommendations PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 9523 D. SSC Recommendations E. Standing Committee Recommendations 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m., Thursday, March 16, 2006 10. Pelagic/International Fisheries A. International Fisheries Management a. WCPFC 2nd Meeting Resolutions i. BET/YFT Conservation ii. Northern & Southern Albacore iii. Bycatch (turtles, seabirds, sharks non-target fish) b. NMFS International Division Activities Report i. Purse Seine Report ii. Other International Activities B. Hawaii Shortline/Handline Fishery Report C. American Samoa & Hawaii Longline 2005 Fishery Reports D. Advisory Panel Recommendations E. SSC Recommendations F. Standing Committee Recommendations 11. Protected Species Issues A. Turtle Conservation Program Update B. Observer Data and Science a. NMFS-Pacific Islands Fishery Science Center b. NMFS-Pacific Islands Regional Office Protected Species Report C. SSC Recommendations D. Standing Committee Recommendations 12. Ecosystems and Habitat A. NWHI Sanctuary Fishing Regulations B. Western Pacific Fishery Ecosystem Plans Update C. NMSP/Council Fishing Regulation Protocol D. NMFS Essential Fish Habitat Update E. Ecosystem Social Science Workshop Report F. Shark Viewing Update G. SSC Recommendations H. Standing Committee Recommendations I. Advisory Panel Recommendations 13. Program Planning A. Update on Legislation B. Magnuson Act Reauthorization C. Status of Fishery Management Actions D. Education and Outreach Report E. Report on State Disaster Relief Program F. FDCC Report G. Report on National Aquaculture H. Standing Committee Recommendations 14. Administrative Matters and Budget A. Financial Reports B. Administrative Reports C. Meetings and Workshops E:\FR\FM\24FEN1.SGM 24FEN1 9524 Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 37 / Friday, February 24, 2006 / Notices wwhite on PROD1PC65 with NOTICES D. SOPP Changes E. Advisory Group Changes F. Standing Committee Recommendations G. Public Comment H. Council Discussion and Action 15. Other Business A. Next Meeting BACKGROUND INFORMATION: 1. Hawaii Bottomfish Overfishing Options (ACTION ITEM) On the basis of fishery information analyzed by NMFS Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center (PIFSC), NMFS’s Pacific Islands Regional Office (PIRO) has determined that overfishing of the bottomfish species complex is occurring within the Hawaii Archipelago. The Regional Administrator for PIRO notified the Council of this overfishing determination on May 27, 2005. The Magnuson-Stevens Act requires that the Council take action to amend the Bottomfish FMP to end bottomfish overfishing within 1 year following NMFS’ notification of the bottomfish overfishing. The Council has been preparing an amendment to the Bottomfish FMP, as well as a Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (DSEIS) to address the ‘‘overfishing’’ of Hawaii’s bottomfish stocks. Contained in the FMP amendment and DSEIS are management measures to end bottomfish overfishing in the Hawaii Archipelago. Hawaii’s bottomfish are managed as a single archipelagic-wide multi-species stock complex, however, bottomfish fisheries in the Hawaii Archipelago occur in two broad management areas, the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands and the Main Hawaiian Islands (MHI). NMFS has determined that the bottomfish overfishing problem is primarily occurring in the MHI and, therefore, reducing fishing mortality (effort) there would be the most effective means to end the overfishing in the Hawaii Archipelago. The management measures considered in the amendment and DSEIS (except for the no action alternative) target a 15 percent or greater reduction in bottomfish fishing mortality in the MHI which has been determined by PIFSC to be the appropriate level of reduction to end overfishing. The Alternatives considered include: (1) No Action; (2a) Closure of Federal waters around Penguin and Middle Banks; (2b) Closure of 15 large area across the main Hawaiian Islands; (3) Annual seasonal closure from May to August; (4a) Total annual quota; 4b) Individual fishing quotas; (5a) Annual VerDate Aug<31>2005 18:03 Feb 23, 2006 Jkt 208001 seasonal closure from May to September except for a limited number of fishermen who fish under individual fishing quotas; and (5b)Annual seasonal closure from June to August and a partial closure of the southwestern portion of Penguin Bank. The Council will consider these alternatives and will take final action on measures to end overfishing in the Hawaii bottomfish stock. 2. Northwestern Hawaiian Islands Fishing Regulations (ACTION ITEM) On January 18, 2006, the Council was informed by the Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere, that NOAA is developing alternatives in the Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the proposed Northwestern Hawaiian Islands National Marine Sanctuary that would enable the Council to continue to recommend management measures to limit bottomfish and pelagic fisheries through regulations under the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, consistent with the goals and objectives of the proposed sanctuary. The Council was also informed that if, by May 1, 2006, it transmits for Secretarial review, an amendment to the Bottomfish and Pelagics FMPs and corresponding proposed regulations implementing limits to bottomfish and pelagic fishing, NOAA may review those Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act regulations as potential mechanisms to implement NOAA’s preferred alternative for the proposed sanctuary, rather than implementing the alternative via the National Marine Sanctuaries Act. The Council will conduct public hearings on options to limit bottomfish and pelagic fishing in the NWHI. Although non-emergency issues not contained in this agenda may come before this group for discussion, those issues may not be the subject of formal action during this meeting. Action will be restricted to those issues specifically identified in this notice and any issues arising after publication of this notice that require emergency action under section 305(c) of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, provided the public has been notified of the Council’s intent to take final action to address the emergency. Special Accommodations These meetings are physically accessible to people with disabilities. Requests for sign language interpretation or other auxiliary aids should be directed to Kitty M. Simonds, 808–522–8220 (voice) or (808)522–8226 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 (fax), at least 5 days prior to the meeting date. Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Dated: February 17, 2006. Tracey L. Thompson, Acting Director, Office of Sustainable Fisheries, National Marine Fisheries Service. [FR Doc. E6–2720 Filed 2–23–06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3510–22–S DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration [I.D. 021606C] Endangered Species; File No. 1556 National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Commerce. ACTION: Notice; receipt of application. AGENCY: SUMMARY: Notice is hereby given that the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, USA (CNMI), Division of Fish and Wildlife [Paul Hamilton, responsible official], P.O. Box 10007, Saipan, Mariana Islands 96950, has applied in due form for a permit to take green (Chelonia mydas), and hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricata) sea turtles for purposes of scientific research. DATES: Written, telefaxed, or e-mail comments must be received on or before March 27, 2006. ADDRESSES: The application and related documents are available for review upon written request or by appointment in the following offices: Permits, Conservation and Education Division, Office of Protected Resources, NMFS, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 13705, Silver Spring, MD 20910; phone (301) 713–2289; fax (301) 427–2521; and Pacific Islands Region, NMFS, 1601 Kapiolani Blvd., Rm 1110, Honolulu, HI 96814–4700; phone (808) 973–2935; fax (808) 973–2941. Written comments or requests for a public hearing on this application should be mailed to the Chief, Permits, Conservation and Education Division, F/PR1, Office of Protected Resources, NMFS, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 13705, Silver Spring, MD 20910. Those individuals requesting a hearing should set forth the specific reasons why a hearing on this particular request would be appropriate. Comments may also be submitted by facsimile at (301) 427–2521, provided the facsimile is confirmed by hard copy submitted by mail and postmarked no later than the closing date of the comment period. E:\FR\FM\24FEN1.SGM 24FEN1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 71, Number 37 (Friday, February 24, 2006)]
[Notices]
[Pages 9522-9524]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E6-2720]


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DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

[I.D. 021506E]


Western Pacific Fishery Management Council; Public Meetings

AGENCY: National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Commerce.

ACTION: Notice of public meetings and hearings.

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

SUMMARY: The Western Pacific Fishery Management Council (Council) will 
hold several public hearings in Hawaii to seek input on measures to end 
bottomfish overfishing in Hawaii and options for fishing regulations 
for bottomfish and pelagics in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands 
(NWHI). Further, the Council will hold its 131st meeting and convene a 
meeting of its Advisory Panel to consider and take actions on fishery 
management issues in the Western Pacific Region.

DATES: The 131st Council meeting and Advisory Panel meetings will be 
held on March 13 - 16, 2006. The public hearings on the Hawaii 
bottomfish overfishing options and NWHI Fishing regulations will be 
held in March 2006. See SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION for specific times 
and times of these public hearings.

ADDRESSES: The 131st Council meeting and Advisory Panel meetings and 
public hearings will be held at the Ala Moana Hotel, 410 Atkinson 
Drive, Honolulu, HI; telephone: (808) 955-4811. See SUPPLEMENTARY 
INFORMATION for specific locations of the public hearings on the 
bottomfish overfishing options and NWHI Fishing regulations.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Kitty M. Simonds, Executive Director; 
telephone: (808) 522-8220.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 
    The location, dates, and times for the public hearings on 
bottomfish overfishing options and NWHI fishing regulations are listed 
below:
    1. Kahului, Maui, Hawaii--Thursday, March 2, 2006, from 6 p.m. to 9 
p.m,. at the Maui Beach Hotel, 170 Kaahumanu Ave., Kahului, HI 96732;
    2. Hana, Maui, Hawaii--Friday, March 3, 2006, from 6 p.m. to 9 
p.m., at the Helene Social Hall, Hana Bay Rd., Hana, HI 96713;
    3. Hilo, Hawaii--Monday, March 6, 2006, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., at 
the University of Hawaii, Hilo Campus Center, 200 W. Kawili St., Hilo, 
HI 96720;
    4. Naalehu, Hawaii--Tuesday, March 7, 2006, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., 
at the Naalehu Elementary School, 95545 Mamalahoa Hwy, Naalehu, HI 
96772;
    5. Kohala, Hawaii--Wednesday, March 8, 2006, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., 
at the Kohala High School, 54-3611 Akoni Pule Hwy, Kapaau, HI 96755;
    6. Kaunakakai, Molokai, Hawaii--Thursday, March 9, 2006, from 6 
p.m. to 9 p.m., at the Mitchell Pauole Center Conference Room, 90 Ainoa 
St., Kaunakakai, HI 96748;
    7. Kapaa, Kauai, Hawaii--Friday, March 10, 2006, from 6 p.m. to 9 
p.m., at the Kapaa High School, 4695 Mailihuna Rd., Kapaa, HI;
    8. Oahu, Hawaii--Tuesday, March 14, 2006, from 6 to 9 p.m., at the 
Ala Moana Hotel, 410 Atkinson Dr., Honolulu, HI 96815;
    9. Oahu, Hawaii--Wednesday, March 15, 2006, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 
p.m., at the Ala Moana Hotel, 410 Atkinson Dr., Honolulu, HI 96815;
    10. Oahu, Hawaii Thursday, March 16, 2006, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 
p.m., at the Ala Moana Hotel, 410 Atkinson Dr., Honolulu, HI 96815;
    For more information on public hearing items, see BACKGROUND 
INFORMATION.

[[Page 9523]]

    The schedule and agenda for the Council Advisory Panel meeting will 
include the items listed here.
8 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., Monday, March 13, 2006
    A. Introduction and overview
    B. Council Action Items
    1. Pelagics Management
    a. Bigeye and Other Tuna Conservation
    b. American Samoa Limited Entry Program Update
    2. Bottomfish Management
    a. MHI Bottomfish Overfishing
    3. Ecosystems and Habitat Management
    a. NWHI Fishing Regulations
    b. Fishery Ecosystem Plans
    4. Fishery Rights of Indigenous People
    a. Communities Program
    b. Marine Conservation Plans
    5. Other Issues
    C. Discussion in Island Area Groups
    1. American Samoa
    2. Guam
    3. CNMI
    4. Hawai
    D. Discussion by Advisory Panel Sub-panels
    1. Commercial Panel
    2. Recreational Panel
    3. Subsistence Panel
    4. Ecosystems & Habitat Panel
8 a.m. - 1 p.m., Tuesday, March 14, 2006
    E. Sub-Panel Chairman Reports
    1. Commercial Advisory Panel Report and Recommendations
    2. Recreational Advisory Panel Report and Recommendations
    3. Ecosystem and Habitat Advisory Panel Report and Recommendations
    4. Indigenous and Subsistence Advisory Panel Report and 
Recommendations
    5. Discussion
    6. Other issues
    7. Full Panel Discussion and Recommendations
    8. Other Business
    In addition to the agenda items listed here, the Council will hear 
recommendations from other Council advisory groups. Public comment 
periods will be provided throughout the agenda. The order in which 
agenda items are addressed may change. The Council will meet as late as 
necessary to complete scheduled business.
    The schedule for Council Standing Committee meetings is listed 
here.
Monday, March 13, 2006

Standing Committee

    1. 7:30 a.m. - 9 a.m., Enforcement/Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) 
Standing Committee
    2. 9 a.m. - 11 a.m., Ecosystems & Habitat Standing Committee
    3. 10 a.m. - 12 noon, Pelagics & International Standing Commmittee
    4. 1 p.m. - 3 p.m., Bottomfish Standing Committee
    5. 3 p.m. - 5 p.m., Program Planning, Executive, and Budget 
Standing Committee
    The agenda during the full Council meeting will include the items 
listed here.

Schedule and Agenda for Council Meeting

8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., Tuesday, March 14, 2006
    1. Introductions
    2. Approval of agenda
    3. Approval of 129th and 130th meeting minutes
    4. Island reports and Island Enforcement Agency Reports
    A. American Samoa
    B. Guam
    C. Hawaii
    D. CNMI
    5. Reports from fishery agencies and organizations
    A. Department of Commerce
    a. NMFS
    i. Pacific Islands Regional Office
    ii. Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center
    B. The Department of the Interior
    a. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)
    C. NOAA General Counsel Southwest Region/Pacific Islands Region
    D. Department of State
    6. Enforcement/vessel monitoring systems
    A. U.S. Coast Guard activities
    B. NOAA Office of Law Enforcement (OLE) Activities
    C. Status of Violations
    D. Standing Committee Recommendations
    7. Fishery Rights of Indigenous People
    A. Communities Program
    B. CDPP Update
    C. Advisory Panel Recommendations
    8. Precious Coral Fisheries
    A. Black Coral Management and Research
    a. Black Coral Amendment Update
    b. Black Coral Workshop Plan
    B. SSC Recommendations
8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., Wednesday, March 15, 2006
    9. Bottomfish Fisheries
    A. Bottomfish Management
    a. PIFSC Report on Hawaii Bottomfish
    b. MHI Bottomfish Overfishing Measures
    c. Assessment of existing and designation of new State of Hawaii 
bottomfish Restricted Fishing Areas (RFA)
    B. Plan Team Recommendations
    C. Advisory Panel Recommendations
    D. SSC Recommendations
    E. Standing Committee Recommendations
8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., Thursday, March 16, 2006
    10. Pelagic/International Fisheries
    A. International Fisheries Management
    a. WCPFC 2nd Meeting Resolutions
    i. BET/YFT Conservation
    ii. Northern & Southern Albacore
    iii. Bycatch (turtles, seabirds, sharks non-target fish)
    b. NMFS International Division Activities Report
    i. Purse Seine Report
    ii. Other International Activities
    B. Hawaii Shortline/Handline Fishery Report
    C. American Samoa & Hawaii Longline 2005 Fishery Reports
    D. Advisory Panel Recommendations
    E. SSC Recommendations
    F. Standing Committee Recommendations
    11. Protected Species Issues
    A. Turtle Conservation Program Update
    B. Observer Data and Science
    a. NMFS-Pacific Islands Fishery Science Center
    b. NMFS-Pacific Islands Regional Office Protected Species Report
    C. SSC Recommendations
    D. Standing Committee Recommendations
    12. Ecosystems and Habitat
    A. NWHI Sanctuary Fishing Regulations
    B. Western Pacific Fishery Ecosystem Plans Update
    C. NMSP/Council Fishing Regulation Protocol
    D. NMFS Essential Fish Habitat Update
    E. Ecosystem Social Science Workshop Report
    F. Shark Viewing Update
    G. SSC Recommendations
    H. Standing Committee Recommendations
    I. Advisory Panel Recommendations
    13. Program Planning
    A. Update on Legislation
    B. Magnuson Act Reauthorization
    C. Status of Fishery Management Actions
    D. Education and Outreach Report
    E. Report on State Disaster Relief Program
    F. FDCC Report
    G. Report on National Aquaculture
    H. Standing Committee Recommendations
    14. Administrative Matters and Budget
    A. Financial Reports
    B. Administrative Reports
    C. Meetings and Workshops

[[Page 9524]]

    D. SOPP Changes
    E. Advisory Group Changes
    F. Standing Committee Recommendations
    G. Public Comment
    H. Council Discussion and Action
    15. Other Business
    A. Next Meeting

BACKGROUND INFORMATION:

1. Hawaii Bottomfish Overfishing Options (ACTION ITEM)
    On the basis of fishery information analyzed by NMFS Pacific 
Islands Fisheries Science Center (PIFSC), NMFS's Pacific Islands 
Regional Office (PIRO) has determined that overfishing of the 
bottomfish species complex is occurring within the Hawaii Archipelago. 
The Regional Administrator for PIRO notified the Council of this 
overfishing determination on May 27, 2005. The Magnuson-Stevens Act 
requires that the Council take action to amend the Bottomfish FMP to 
end bottomfish overfishing within 1 year following NMFS' notification 
of the bottomfish overfishing.
    The Council has been preparing an amendment to the Bottomfish FMP, 
as well as a Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (DSEIS) 
to address the ``overfishing'' of Hawaii's bottomfish stocks. Contained 
in the FMP amendment and DSEIS are management measures to end 
bottomfish overfishing in the Hawaii Archipelago.
    Hawaii's bottomfish are managed as a single archipelagic-wide 
multi-species stock complex, however, bottomfish fisheries in the 
Hawaii Archipelago occur in two broad management areas, the 
Northwestern Hawaiian Islands and the Main Hawaiian Islands (MHI). NMFS 
has determined that the bottomfish overfishing problem is primarily 
occurring in the MHI and, therefore, reducing fishing mortality 
(effort) there would be the most effective means to end the overfishing 
in the Hawaii Archipelago. The management measures considered in the 
amendment and DSEIS (except for the no action alternative) target a 15 
percent or greater reduction in bottomfish fishing mortality in the MHI 
which has been determined by PIFSC to be the appropriate level of 
reduction to end overfishing.
    The Alternatives considered include: (1) No Action; (2a) Closure of 
Federal waters around Penguin and Middle Banks; (2b) Closure of 15 
large area across the main Hawaiian Islands; (3) Annual seasonal 
closure from May to August; (4a) Total annual quota; 4b) Individual 
fishing quotas; (5a) Annual seasonal closure from May to September 
except for a limited number of fishermen who fish under individual 
fishing quotas; and (5b)Annual seasonal closure from June to August and 
a partial closure of the southwestern portion of Penguin Bank.
    The Council will consider these alternatives and will take final 
action on measures to end overfishing in the Hawaii bottomfish stock.
2. Northwestern Hawaiian Islands Fishing Regulations (ACTION ITEM)
    On January 18, 2006, the Council was informed by the Under 
Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere, that NOAA is 
developing alternatives in the Draft Environmental Impact Statement for 
the proposed Northwestern Hawaiian Islands National Marine Sanctuary 
that would enable the Council to continue to recommend management 
measures to limit bottomfish and pelagic fisheries through regulations 
under the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, 
consistent with the goals and objectives of the proposed sanctuary.
    The Council was also informed that if, by May 1, 2006, it transmits 
for Secretarial review, an amendment to the Bottomfish and Pelagics 
FMPs and corresponding proposed regulations implementing limits to 
bottomfish and pelagic fishing, NOAA may review those Magnuson-Stevens 
Fishery Conservation and Management Act regulations as potential 
mechanisms to implement NOAA's preferred alternative for the proposed 
sanctuary, rather than implementing the alternative via the National 
Marine Sanctuaries Act.
    The Council will conduct public hearings on options to limit 
bottomfish and pelagic fishing in the NWHI.
    Although non-emergency issues not contained in this agenda may come 
before this group for discussion, those issues may not be the subject 
of formal action during this meeting. Action will be restricted to 
those issues specifically identified in this notice and any issues 
arising after publication of this notice that require emergency action 
under section 305(c) of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and 
Management Act, provided the public has been notified of the Council's 
intent to take final action to address the emergency.

Special Accommodations

    These meetings are physically accessible to people with 
disabilities. Requests for sign language interpretation or other 
auxiliary aids should be directed to Kitty M. Simonds, 808-522-8220 
(voice) or (808)522-8226 (fax), at least 5 days prior to the meeting 
date.

    Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.

    Dated: February 17, 2006.
Tracey L. Thompson,
Acting Director, Office of Sustainable Fisheries, National Marine 
Fisheries Service.
[FR Doc. E6-2720 Filed 2-23-06; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3510-22-S
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