Taking of Marine Mammals Incidental to Commercial Fishing Operations; Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Plan, 11837-11840 [08-952]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 44 / Wednesday, March 5, 2008 / Rules and Regulations 11837 announcing the effective date of the information collection requirements. On Environmental protection, January 23, 2008, OMB approved the Administrative practice and procedure, * * * * * information collection requirements Agricultural commodities, Pesticides contained in this Report and Order and pests, Reporting and recordkeeping Vegetable, legume, edible-podpursuant to OMB Control Number: ded, subgroup 6A ................. 6.0 requirements. 3060–1112, Comprehensive Review of * * * * * Dated: February 22, 2008. the Universal Service Fund Lois Rossi, Wax jambu ................................ 0.90 Management, Administration, and Oversight. Accordingly, the information Director, Registration Division, Office of Pesticide Programs. collection requirements contained in the * * * * * Report and Order became effective on I Therefore, 40 CFR chapter I is [FR Doc. E8–4142 Filed 3–4–08; 8:45 am] January 23, 2008. The expiration date amended as follows: BILLING CODE 6560–50–S for the information collection is January 31, 2011. PART 180—AMENDED The Commission also published a FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS I 1. The authority citation for part 180 separate Notice in the Federal Register COMMISSION continues to read as follows: on January 31, 2008 (73 FR 5843) in which the PRA various burden Authority: 21 U.S.C. 321(q), 346a and 371. 47 CFR Part 54 estimates for this information collection, [WC Docket No. 05–195; CC Docket No. 96– I 2. Section 180.572 is amended by 3060–1112, Comprehensive Review of 45; CC Docket No. 02–6; WC Docket No. removing the entries ‘‘Pea, edible the Universal Service Fund 02–60; WC Docket No. 03–109; CC Docket podded, succulent’’ and ‘‘Pea, garden, Management, which OMB has No. 97–21; FCC 07–150] succulent’’ in the table in paragraph approved, were listed. (a)(1) and alphabetically adding the Pursuant to the Paperwork Reduction Comprehensive Review of the following commodities to read as Act of 1995, 44 U.S.C. 3501–3520, an Universal Service Fund follows: agency may not conduct or sponsor a AGENCY: Federal Communications collection of information unless it § 180.572 Bifenazate; tolerance for Commission. displays a currently valid control residues. number. Notwithstanding any other ACTION: Final rule; announcement of (a) General. (1) * * * provisions of law, no person shall be effective date. subject to any penalty for failing to Parts per SUMMARY: On August 29, 2007, the FCC Commodity comply with a collection of information million released a Report and Order, subject to the Paperwork Reduction Act Acerola ...................................... 0.90 Comprehensive Review of the Universal (PRA) that does not display a valid Service Fund Management, control number. Questions concerning * * * * * Administration, and Oversight; Federal- this information collection, 3060–1112, Black sapote ............................. 7.0 State Joint Board on Universal Service; should be directed to Leslie F. Smith, Caneberry subgroup 13-07A .... 5.0 Schools and Libraries Universal Service Federal Communications Commission, Canistel ..................................... 7.0 Support Mechanism; Rule Health Care and (202) 418–0217 or via the Internet * * * * * Support Mechanism; Lifeline and Linkat Leslie.Smith@fcc.gov. up; and Changes to the Board of Federal Communications Commission. Feijoa ........................................ 0.90 Directors for the National Exchange * * * * * Carrier Association, Inc., WC Docket No. Marlene H. Dortch, Secretary. Guave ....................................... 0.90 05–195; CC Docket No. 96–45; CC Docket No. 02–6; WC Docket No. 02–60; [FR Doc. E8–4047 Filed 3–4–08; 8:45 am] * * * * * WC Docket No. 03–109; CC Docket No. BILLING CODE 6712–01–P Jaboticaba ................................ 0.90 97–21; FCC 07–150. The information Longan ...................................... 5.0 collection requirements in this Report Lychee ...................................... 5.0 and Order required approval from the DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE Mango ....................................... 7.0 Office of Management and Budget. This * * * * * National Oceanic and Atmospheric document announces the effective date Administration of these information collection Papaya ...................................... 7.0 Passionfruit ............................... 0.90 requirements. 50 CFR Part 229 Pea and bean, succulent DATES: The information collection List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 180 * shelled, subgroup 6B ............ * * * yshivers on PROD1PC62 with RULES Pulasan ..................................... Rambutan ................................. Sapodilla ................................... Sapote, mamey ........................ * * * * Soybean, succulent shelled ...... Spanish lime ............................. * * * * 0.70 * 5.0 5.0 7.0 7.0 * 0.70 5.0 * Star apple ................................. Starfruit ..................................... VerDate Aug<31>2005 14:21 Mar 04, 2008 7.0 0.90 Jkt 214001 Parts per million Commodity requirements in amendments to §§ 54.202, 54.417, 54.619, and 54.706, published at 72 FR 54214, September 24, 2007, were approved by the Office of Management and Budget on January 23, 2008. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mika Savir, Senior Attorney, Office of the Managing Director, (202) 418–0384, TTY 1 (888) 835–5322. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The Report and Order stated that the Commission would publish a notice PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 [Docket No. 080228330–8334–01] RIN 0648–XF96 Taking of Marine Mammals Incidental to Commercial Fishing Operations; Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Plan National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Commerce. ACTION: Temporary rule. AGENCY: E:\FR\FM\05MRR1.SGM 05MRR1 11838 Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 44 / Wednesday, March 5, 2008 / Rules and Regulations SUMMARY: The Assistant Administrator for Fisheries (AA), NOAA, announces temporary restrictions consistent with the requirements of the Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Plan’s (ALWTRP) implementing regulations. These regulations apply to lobster trap/ pot and anchored gillnet fishermen in an area totaling approximately 1,238 nm2 (4,246 km2), east of Chatham, Massachusetts for 15 days. The purpose of this action is to provide protection to an aggregation of northern right whales (right whales). DATES: Effective beginning at 0001 hours March 7, 2008, through 2400 hours March 21, 2008. ADDRESSES: Copies of the proposed and final Dynamic Area Management (DAM) rules, Environmental Assessments (EAs), Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Team (ALWTRT) meeting summaries, and progress reports on implementation of the ALWTRP may also be obtained by writing Diane Borggaard, NMFS/Northeast Region, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Diane Borggaard, NMFS/Northeast Region, 978–281–9300 x6503; or Kristy Long, NMFS, Office of Protected Resources, 301–713–2322. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: yshivers on PROD1PC62 with RULES Electronic Access Several of the background documents for the ALWTRP and the take reduction planning process can be downloaded from the ALWTRP web site at https:// www.nero.noaa.gov/whaletrp/. Background The ALWTRP was developed pursuant to section 118 of the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) to reduce the incidental mortality and serious injury of three endangered species of whales (right, fin, and humpback) due to incidental interaction with commercial fishing activities. In addition, the measures identified in the ALWTRP would provide conservation benefits to a fourth species (minke), which are neither listed as endangered nor threatened under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). The ALWTRP, implemented through regulations codified at 50 CFR 229.32, relies on a combination of fishing gear modifications and time/area closures to reduce the risk of whales becoming entangled in commercial fishing gear (and potentially suffering serious injury or mortality as a result). On January 9, 2002, NMFS published the final rule to implement the ALWTRP’s DAM program (67 FR 1133). VerDate Aug<31>2005 14:21 Mar 04, 2008 Jkt 214001 On August 26, 2003, NMFS amended the regulations by publishing a final rule, which specifically identified gear modifications that may be allowed in a DAM zone (68 FR 51195). The DAM program provides specific authority for NMFS to restrict temporarily on an expedited basis the use of lobster trap/ pot and anchored gillnet fishing gear in areas north of 40° N. lat. to protect right whales. Under the DAM program, NMFS may: (1) require the removal of all lobster trap/pot and anchored gillnet fishing gear for a 15–day period; (2) allow lobster trap/pot and anchored gillnet fishing within a DAM zone with gear modifications determined by NMFS to sufficiently reduce the risk of entanglement; and/or (3) issue an alert to fishermen requesting the voluntary removal of all lobster trap/pot and anchored gillnet gear for a 15–day period and asking fishermen not to set any additional gear in the DAM zone during the 15–day period. A DAM zone is triggered when NMFS receives a reliable report from a qualified individual of three or more right whales sighted within an area (75 nm2 (257 km2)) such that right whale density is equal to or greater than 0.04 right whales per nm2 (3.43 km2). A qualified individual is an individual ascertained by NMFS to be reasonably able, through training or experience, to identify a right whale. Such individuals include, but are not limited to, NMFS staff, U.S. Coast Guard and Navy personnel trained in whale identification, scientific research survey personnel, whale watch operators and naturalists, and mariners trained in whale species identification through disentanglement training or some other training program deemed adequate by NMFS. A reliable report would be a credible right whale sighting. On February 25, 2008, an aerial survey reported an aggregation of six right whales in the proximity of 41° 40′ N. latitude and 69° 39′ W. long. The position lies approximately 15 nm east of Chatham, Massachusetts. After conducting an investigation, NMFS ascertained that the report came from a qualified individual and determined that the report was reliable. Thus, NMFS has received a reliable report from a qualified individual of the requisite right whale density to trigger the DAM provisions of the ALWTRP. Once a DAM zone is triggered, NMFS determines whether to impose restrictions on fishing and/or fishing gear in the zone. This determination is based on the following factors, including but not limited to: the location of the DAM zone with respect to other fishery closure areas, weather PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 conditions as they relate to the safety of human life at sea, the type and amount of gear already present in the area, and a review of recent right whale entanglement and mortality data. NMFS has reviewed the factors and management options noted above relative to the DAM under consideration. As a result of this review, NMFS prohibits lobster trap/pot and anchored gillnet gear in this area during the 15–day restricted period unless it is modified in the manner described in this temporary rule. The DAM Zone is bound by the following coordinates: 42° 02′ N., 69° 24′ W. (NW Corner) 42° 02′ N., 69° 11′ W. 41° 19′ N., 69° 11′ W. 41° 19′ N., 69° 59′ W., then follow the northern Nantucket coastline westward to 41° 19′ N., 70° 04′ W. 41° 19′ N., 70° 09′ W. 41° 39′ N., 70° 09′ W., then follow the Cape Cod coastline eastward to 41° 45′ N., 69° 56′ W. 41° 45′ N., 69° 33′ W. 41° 49′ N., 69° 24′ W. 42° 02′ N., 69° 24′ W. (NW Corner) In addition to those gear modifications currently implemented under the ALWTRP at 50 CFR 229.32, the following gear modifications are required in the DAM zone. If the requirements and exceptions for gear modification in the DAM zone, as described below, differ from other ALWTRP requirements for any overlapping areas and times, then the more restrictive requirements will apply in the DAM zone. Special note for gillnet fisherman: a portion of this DAM zone overlaps the Northeast Multispecies year-round Closed Area I found at 50 CFR 648.81(f)(a), and the Northeast Multispecies seasonal Gulf of Maine Rolling Closure Area I for found at 50 CFR 648.81(f)(i). Due to these closures, sink gillnet gear is prohibited from these portions of the DAM zone. Lobster Trap/Pot Gear Fishermen utilizing lobster trap/pot gear within portions of Northern Inshore State Lobster Waters and Northern Nearshore Lobster Waters that overlap with the DAM zone are required to utilize all of the following gear modifications while the DAM zone is in effect: 1. Groundlines must be made of either sinking or neutrally buoyant line. Floating groundlines are prohibited; 2. All buoy lines must be made of either sinking or neutrally buoyant line, except the bottom portion of the line, which may be a section of floating line not to exceed one-third the overall length of the buoy line; E:\FR\FM\05MRR1.SGM 05MRR1 Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 44 / Wednesday, March 5, 2008 / Rules and Regulations 3. Fishermen are allowed to use two buoy lines per trawl; and 4. A weak link with a maximum breaking strength of 600 lb (272.4 kg) must be placed at all buoys. Fishermen utilizing lobster trap/pot gear within the portion of the Offshore Lobster Waters Area that overlap with the DAM zone are required to utilize all of the following gear modifications while the DAM zone is in effect: 1. Groundlines must be made of either sinking or neutrally buoyant line. Floating groundlines are prohibited; 2. All buoy lines must be made of either sinking or neutrally buoyant line, except the bottom portion of the line, which may be a section of floating line not to exceed one-third the overall length of the buoy line; 3. Fishermen are allowed to use two buoy lines per trawl; and 4. A weak link with a maximum breaking strength of 1,500 lb (680.4 kg) must be placed at all buoys. yshivers on PROD1PC62 with RULES Anchored Gillnet Gear Fishermen utilizing anchored gillnet gear within the portions of the Other Northeast Gillnet Waters Area that overlap with the DAM zone are required to utilize all the following gear modifications while the DAM zone is in effect: 1. Groundlines must be made of either sinking or neutrally buoyant line. Floating groundlines are prohibited; 2. All buoy lines must be made of either sinking or neutrally buoyant line, except the bottom portion of the line, which may be a section of floating line not to exceed one-third the overall length of the buoy line; 3. Fishermen are allowed to use two buoy lines per string; 4. The breaking strength of each net panel weak link must not exceed 1,100 lb (498.8 kg). The weak link requirements apply to all variations in net panel size. One weak link must be placed in the center of the floatline and one weak link must be placed in the center of each of the up and down lines at both ends of the net panel. Additionally, one weak link must be placed as close as possible to each end of the net panels on the floatline; or, one weak link must be placed between floatline tie-loops between net panels and one weak link must be placed where the floatline tie-loops attach to the bridle, buoy line, or groundline at each end of a net string; 5. A weak link with a maximum breaking strength of 1,100 lb (498.8 kg) must be placed at all buoys; and 6. All anchored gillnets, regardless of the number of net panels, must be securely anchored with the holding VerDate Aug<31>2005 14:21 Mar 04, 2008 Jkt 214001 power of at least a 22 lb (10.0 kg) Danforth-style anchor at each end of the net string. The restrictions will be in effect beginning at 0001 hours March 7, 2008, through 2400 hours March 16, 2008, unless terminated sooner or extended by NMFS through another notification in the Federal Register. The restrictions will be announced to state officials, fishermen, ALWTRT members, and other interested parties through e-mail, phone contact, NOAA website, and other appropriate media immediately upon issuance of the rule by the AA. Classification In accordance with section 118(f)(9) of the MMPA, the Assistant Administrator (AA) for Fisheries has determined that this action is necessary to implement a take reduction plan to protect North Atlantic right whales. Environmental Assessments for the DAM program were prepared on December 28, 2001, and August 6, 2003. This action falls within the scope of the analyses of these EAs, which are available from the agency upon request. NMFS provided prior notice and an opportunity for public comment on the regulations establishing the criteria and procedures for implementing a DAM zone. Providing prior notice and opportunity for comment on this action, pursuant to those regulations, would be impracticable because it would prevent NMFS from executing its functions to protect and reduce serious injury and mortality of endangered right whales. The regulations establishing the DAM program are designed to enable the agency to help protect unexpected concentrations of right whales. In order to meet the goals of the DAM program, the agency needs to be able to create a DAM zone and implement restrictions on fishing gear as soon as possible once the criteria are triggered and NMFS determines that a DAM restricted zone is appropriate. If NMFS were to provide prior notice and an opportunity for public comment upon the creation of a DAM restricted zone, the aggregated right whales would be vulnerable to entanglement which could result in serious injury and mortality. Additionally, the right whales would most likely move on to another location before NMFS could implement the restrictions designed to protect them, thereby rendering the action obsolete. Therefore, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553(b)(B), the AA finds that good cause exists to waive prior notice and an opportunity to comment on this action to implement a DAM restricted zone to reduce the risk of entanglement of PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 11839 endangered right whales in commercial lobster trap/pot and anchored gillnet gear as such procedures would be impracticable. For the same reasons, the AA finds that, under 5 U.S.C. 553(d)(3), good cause exists to waive the 30–day delay in effective date. If NMFS were to delay for 30 days the effective date of this action, the aggregated right whales would be vulnerable to entanglement, which could cause serious injury and mortality. Additionally, right whales would likely move to another location between the time NMFS approved the action creating the DAM restricted zone and the time it went into effect, thereby rendering the action obsolete and ineffective. Nevertheless, NMFS recognizes the need for fishermen to have time to either modify or remove (if not in compliance with the required restrictions) their gear from a DAM zone once one is approved. Thus, NMFS makes this action effective 2 days after the date of publication of this document in the Federal Register. NMFS will also endeavor to provide notice of this action to fishermen through other means upon issuance of the rule by the AA, thereby providing approximately 3 additional days of notice while the Office of the Federal Register processes the document for publication. NMFS determined that the regulations establishing the DAM program and actions such as this one taken pursuant to those regulations are consistent to the maximum extent practicable with the enforceable policies of the approved coastal management program of the U.S. Atlantic coastal states. This determination was submitted for review by the responsible state agencies under section 307 of the Coastal Zone Management Act. Following state review of the regulations creating the DAM program, no state disagreed with NMFS’ conclusion that the DAM program is consistent to the maximum extent practicable with the enforceable policies of the approved coastal management program for that state. The DAM program under which NMFS is taking this action contains policies with federalism implications warranting preparation of a federalism assessment under Executive Order 13132. Accordingly, in October 2001 and March 2003, the Assistant Secretary for Intergovernmental and Legislative Affairs, Department of Commerce, provided notice of the DAM program and its amendments to the appropriate elected officials in states to be affected by actions taken pursuant to the DAM program. Federalism issues raised by state officials were addressed in the final rules implementing the DAM E:\FR\FM\05MRR1.SGM 05MRR1 11840 Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 44 / Wednesday, March 5, 2008 / Rules and Regulations program. A copy of the federalism Summary Impact Statement for the final rules is available upon request (ADDRESSES). The rule implementing the DAM program has been determined to be not significant under Executive Order 12866. Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1361 et seq. and 50 CFR 229.32(g)(3). Dated: February 28, 2008. James W. Balsiger, Acting Assistant Administrator for Fisheries, National Marine Fisheries Service. [FR Doc. 08–952 Filed 2–29–08; 12:35 pm] BILLING CODE 3510–22–S DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration 50 CFR Part 679 [Docket No. 071106671–8010–02] RIN 0648–XG00 Fisheries of the Exclusive Economic Zone Off Alaska; Pacific Cod by Vessels Catching Pacific Cod for Processing by the Inshore Component in the Western Regulatory Area of the Gulf of Alaska National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Commerce. ACTION: Temporary rule; closure. AGENCY: yshivers on PROD1PC62 with RULES SUMMARY: NMFS is prohibiting directed fishing for Pacific cod by vessels catching Pacific cod for processing by the inshore component in the Western Regulatory Area of the Gulf of Alaska (GOA). This action is necessary to prevent exceeding the A season allocation of the 2008 total allowable catch (TAC) of Pacific cod apportioned to vessels catching Pacific cod for VerDate Aug<31>2005 14:21 Mar 04, 2008 Jkt 214001 processing by the inshore component of the Western Regulatory Area of the GOA. Effective 1200 hrs, Alaska local time (A.l.t.), February 29, 2008, until 1200 hrs, A.l.t., September 1, 2008. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Jennifer Hogan, 907–586–7228. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: NMFS manages the groundfish fishery in the GOA exclusive economic zone according to the Fishery Management Plan for Groundfish of the Gulf of Alaska (FMP) prepared by the North Pacific Fishery Management Council under authority of the MagnusonStevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act. Regulations governing fishing by U.S. vessels in accordance with the FMP appear at subpart H of 50 CFR part 600 and 50 CFR part 679. The A season allocation of the 2008 TAC of Pacific cod apportioned to vessels catching Pacific cod for processing by the inshore component of the Western Regulatory Area of the GOA is 10,502 metric tons (mt) as established by the 2008 and 2009 harvest specifications for groundfish of the GOA (73 FR 10562, February 27, 2008). In accordance with § 679.20(d)(1)(i), the Administrator, Alaska Region, NMFS (Regional Administrator), has determined that the 2008 TAC of Pacific cod apportioned to vessels catching Pacific cod for processing by the inshore component of the Western Regulatory Area of the GOA will soon be reached. Therefore, the Regional Administrator is establishing a directed fishing allowance of 10,302 mt, and is setting aside the remaining 200 mt as bycatch to support other anticipated groundfish fisheries. In accordance with § 679.20(d)(1)(iii), the Regional Administrator finds that this directed fishing allowance has been reached. Consequently, NMFS is prohibiting directed fishing for Pacific cod by vessels catching Pacific cod for DATES: PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 processing by the inshore component in the Western Regulatory Area of the GOA. After the effective date of this closure the maximum retainable amounts at § 679.20(e) and (f) apply at any time during a trip. Classification This action responds to the best available information recently obtained from the fishery. The Assistant Administrator for Fisheries, NOAA (AA), finds good cause to waive the requirement to provide prior notice and opportunity for public comment pursuant to the authority set forth at 5 U.S.C. 553(b)(B) as such requirement is impracticable and contrary to the public interest. This requirement is impracticable and contrary to the public interest as it would prevent NMFS from responding to the most recent fisheries data in a timely fashion and would delay the closure of Pacific cod apportioned to vessels catching Pacific cod for processing by the inshore component of the Western Regulatory Area of the GOA. NMFS was unable to publish a notice providing time for public comment because the most recent, relevant data only became available as of February 27, 2008. The AA also finds good cause to waive the 30-day delay in the effective date of this action under 5 U.S.C. 553(d)(3). This finding is based upon the reasons provided above for waiver of prior notice and opportunity for public comment. This action is required by § 679.20 and is exempt from review under Executive Order 12866. Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Dated: February 28, 2008. James P. Burgess, Acting Director, Office of Sustainable Fisheries, National Marine Fisheries Service. [FR Doc. 08–951 Filed 2–29–08; 12:35 pm] BILLING CODE 3510–22–S E:\FR\FM\05MRR1.SGM 05MRR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 73, Number 44 (Wednesday, March 5, 2008)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 11837-11840]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 08-952]


=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

50 CFR Part 229

[Docket No. 080228330-8334-01]
RIN 0648-XF96


Taking of Marine Mammals Incidental to Commercial Fishing 
Operations; Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Plan

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

ACTION: Temporary rule.

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

[[Page 11838]]

SUMMARY: The Assistant Administrator for Fisheries (AA), NOAA, 
announces temporary restrictions consistent with the requirements of 
the Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Plan's (ALWTRP) implementing 
regulations. These regulations apply to lobster trap/pot and anchored 
gillnet fishermen in an area totaling approximately 1,238 nm\2\ (4,246 
km\2\), east of Chatham, Massachusetts for 15 days. The purpose of this 
action is to provide protection to an aggregation of northern right 
whales (right whales).

DATES: Effective beginning at 0001 hours March 7, 2008, through 2400 
hours March 21, 2008.

ADDRESSES: Copies of the proposed and final Dynamic Area Management 
(DAM) rules, Environmental Assessments (EAs), Atlantic Large Whale Take 
Reduction Team (ALWTRT) meeting summaries, and progress reports on 
implementation of the ALWTRP may also be obtained by writing Diane 
Borggaard, NMFS/Northeast Region, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 
01930.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Diane Borggaard, NMFS/Northeast 
Region, 978-281-9300 x6503; or Kristy Long, NMFS, Office of Protected 
Resources, 301-713-2322.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Electronic Access

    Several of the background documents for the ALWTRP and the take 
reduction planning process can be downloaded from the ALWTRP web site 
at https://www.nero.noaa.gov/whaletrp/.

Background

    The ALWTRP was developed pursuant to section 118 of the Marine 
Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) to reduce the incidental mortality and 
serious injury of three endangered species of whales (right, fin, and 
humpback) due to incidental interaction with commercial fishing 
activities. In addition, the measures identified in the ALWTRP would 
provide conservation benefits to a fourth species (minke), which are 
neither listed as endangered nor threatened under the Endangered 
Species Act (ESA). The ALWTRP, implemented through regulations codified 
at 50 CFR 229.32, relies on a combination of fishing gear modifications 
and time/area closures to reduce the risk of whales becoming entangled 
in commercial fishing gear (and potentially suffering serious injury or 
mortality as a result).
    On January 9, 2002, NMFS published the final rule to implement the 
ALWTRP's DAM program (67 FR 1133). On August 26, 2003, NMFS amended the 
regulations by publishing a final rule, which specifically identified 
gear modifications that may be allowed in a DAM zone (68 FR 51195). The 
DAM program provides specific authority for NMFS to restrict 
temporarily on an expedited basis the use of lobster trap/pot and 
anchored gillnet fishing gear in areas north of 40[deg] N. lat. to 
protect right whales. Under the DAM program, NMFS may: (1) require the 
removal of all lobster trap/pot and anchored gillnet fishing gear for a 
15-day period; (2) allow lobster trap/pot and anchored gillnet fishing 
within a DAM zone with gear modifications determined by NMFS to 
sufficiently reduce the risk of entanglement; and/or (3) issue an alert 
to fishermen requesting the voluntary removal of all lobster trap/pot 
and anchored gillnet gear for a 15-day period and asking fishermen not 
to set any additional gear in the DAM zone during the 15-day period.
    A DAM zone is triggered when NMFS receives a reliable report from a 
qualified individual of three or more right whales sighted within an 
area (75 nm\2\ (257 km\2\)) such that right whale density is equal to 
or greater than 0.04 right whales per nm\2\ (3.43 km\2\). A qualified 
individual is an individual ascertained by NMFS to be reasonably able, 
through training or experience, to identify a right whale. Such 
individuals include, but are not limited to, NMFS staff, U.S. Coast 
Guard and Navy personnel trained in whale identification, scientific 
research survey personnel, whale watch operators and naturalists, and 
mariners trained in whale species identification through 
disentanglement training or some other training program deemed adequate 
by NMFS. A reliable report would be a credible right whale sighting.
    On February 25, 2008, an aerial survey reported an aggregation of 
six right whales in the proximity of 41[deg] 40' N. latitude and 
69[deg] 39' W. long. The position lies approximately 15 nm east of 
Chatham, Massachusetts. After conducting an investigation, NMFS 
ascertained that the report came from a qualified individual and 
determined that the report was reliable. Thus, NMFS has received a 
reliable report from a qualified individual of the requisite right 
whale density to trigger the DAM provisions of the ALWTRP.
    Once a DAM zone is triggered, NMFS determines whether to impose 
restrictions on fishing and/or fishing gear in the zone. This 
determination is based on the following factors, including but not 
limited to: the location of the DAM zone with respect to other fishery 
closure areas, weather conditions as they relate to the safety of human 
life at sea, the type and amount of gear already present in the area, 
and a review of recent right whale entanglement and mortality data.
    NMFS has reviewed the factors and management options noted above 
relative to the DAM under consideration. As a result of this review, 
NMFS prohibits lobster trap/pot and anchored gillnet gear in this area 
during the 15-day restricted period unless it is modified in the manner 
described in this temporary rule.
    The DAM Zone is bound by the following coordinates:
    42[deg] 02' N., 69[deg] 24' W. (NW Corner)
    42[deg] 02' N., 69[deg] 11' W.
    41[deg] 19' N., 69[deg] 11' W.
    41[deg] 19' N., 69[deg] 59' W., then follow the northern Nantucket 
coastline westward to
    41[deg] 19' N., 70[deg] 04' W.
    41[deg] 19' N., 70[deg] 09' W.
    41[deg] 39' N., 70[deg] 09' W., then follow the Cape Cod coastline 
eastward to
    41[deg] 45' N., 69[deg] 56' W.
    41[deg] 45' N., 69[deg] 33' W.
    41[deg] 49' N., 69[deg] 24' W.
    42[deg] 02' N., 69[deg] 24' W. (NW Corner)
    In addition to those gear modifications currently implemented under 
the ALWTRP at 50 CFR 229.32, the following gear modifications are 
required in the DAM zone. If the requirements and exceptions for gear 
modification in the DAM zone, as described below, differ from other 
ALWTRP requirements for any overlapping areas and times, then the more 
restrictive requirements will apply in the DAM zone. Special note for 
gillnet fisherman: a portion of this DAM zone overlaps the Northeast 
Multispecies year-round Closed Area I found at 50 CFR 648.81(f)(a), and 
the Northeast Multispecies seasonal Gulf of Maine Rolling Closure Area 
I for found at 50 CFR 648.81(f)(i). Due to these closures, sink gillnet 
gear is prohibited from these portions of the DAM zone.

Lobster Trap/Pot Gear

    Fishermen utilizing lobster trap/pot gear within portions of 
Northern Inshore State Lobster Waters and Northern Nearshore Lobster 
Waters that overlap with the DAM zone are required to utilize all of 
the following gear modifications while the DAM zone is in effect:
    1. Groundlines must be made of either sinking or neutrally buoyant 
line. Floating groundlines are prohibited;
    2. All buoy lines must be made of either sinking or neutrally 
buoyant line, except the bottom portion of the line, which may be a 
section of floating line not to exceed one-third the overall length of 
the buoy line;

[[Page 11839]]

    3. Fishermen are allowed to use two buoy lines per trawl; and
    4. A weak link with a maximum breaking strength of 600 lb (272.4 
kg) must be placed at all buoys.
    Fishermen utilizing lobster trap/pot gear within the portion of the 
Offshore Lobster Waters Area that overlap with the DAM zone are 
required to utilize all of the following gear modifications while the 
DAM zone is in effect:
    1. Groundlines must be made of either sinking or neutrally buoyant 
line. Floating groundlines are prohibited;
    2. All buoy lines must be made of either sinking or neutrally 
buoyant line, except the bottom portion of the line, which may be a 
section of floating line not to exceed one-third the overall length of 
the buoy line;
    3. Fishermen are allowed to use two buoy lines per trawl; and
    4. A weak link with a maximum breaking strength of 1,500 lb (680.4 
kg) must be placed at all buoys.

Anchored Gillnet Gear

    Fishermen utilizing anchored gillnet gear within the portions of 
the Other Northeast Gillnet Waters Area that overlap with the DAM zone 
are required to utilize all the following gear modifications while the 
DAM zone is in effect:
    1. Groundlines must be made of either sinking or neutrally buoyant 
line. Floating groundlines are prohibited;
    2. All buoy lines must be made of either sinking or neutrally 
buoyant line, except the bottom portion of the line, which may be a 
section of floating line not to exceed one-third the overall length of 
the buoy line;
    3. Fishermen are allowed to use two buoy lines per string;
    4. The breaking strength of each net panel weak link must not 
exceed 1,100 lb (498.8 kg). The weak link requirements apply to all 
variations in net panel size. One weak link must be placed in the 
center of the floatline and one weak link must be placed in the center 
of each of the up and down lines at both ends of the net panel. 
Additionally, one weak link must be placed as close as possible to each 
end of the net panels on the floatline; or, one weak link must be 
placed between floatline tie-loops between net panels and one weak link 
must be placed where the floatline tie-loops attach to the bridle, buoy 
line, or groundline at each end of a net string;
    5. A weak link with a maximum breaking strength of 1,100 lb (498.8 
kg) must be placed at all buoys; and
    6. All anchored gillnets, regardless of the number of net panels, 
must be securely anchored with the holding power of at least a 22 lb 
(10.0 kg) Danforth-style anchor at each end of the net string.
    The restrictions will be in effect beginning at 0001 hours March 7, 
2008, through 2400 hours March 16, 2008, unless terminated sooner or 
extended by NMFS through another notification in the Federal Register.
    The restrictions will be announced to state officials, fishermen, 
ALWTRT members, and other interested parties through e-mail, phone 
contact, NOAA website, and other appropriate media immediately upon 
issuance of the rule by the AA.

Classification

    In accordance with section 118(f)(9) of the MMPA, the Assistant 
Administrator (AA) for Fisheries has determined that this action is 
necessary to implement a take reduction plan to protect North Atlantic 
right whales.
    Environmental Assessments for the DAM program were prepared on 
December 28, 2001, and August 6, 2003. This action falls within the 
scope of the analyses of these EAs, which are available from the agency 
upon request.
    NMFS provided prior notice and an opportunity for public comment on 
the regulations establishing the criteria and procedures for 
implementing a DAM zone. Providing prior notice and opportunity for 
comment on this action, pursuant to those regulations, would be 
impracticable because it would prevent NMFS from executing its 
functions to protect and reduce serious injury and mortality of 
endangered right whales. The regulations establishing the DAM program 
are designed to enable the agency to help protect unexpected 
concentrations of right whales. In order to meet the goals of the DAM 
program, the agency needs to be able to create a DAM zone and implement 
restrictions on fishing gear as soon as possible once the criteria are 
triggered and NMFS determines that a DAM restricted zone is 
appropriate. If NMFS were to provide prior notice and an opportunity 
for public comment upon the creation of a DAM restricted zone, the 
aggregated right whales would be vulnerable to entanglement which could 
result in serious injury and mortality. Additionally, the right whales 
would most likely move on to another location before NMFS could 
implement the restrictions designed to protect them, thereby rendering 
the action obsolete. Therefore, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553(b)(B), the AA 
finds that good cause exists to waive prior notice and an opportunity 
to comment on this action to implement a DAM restricted zone to reduce 
the risk of entanglement of endangered right whales in commercial 
lobster trap/pot and anchored gillnet gear as such procedures would be 
impracticable.
    For the same reasons, the AA finds that, under 5 U.S.C. 553(d)(3), 
good cause exists to waive the 30-day delay in effective date. If NMFS 
were to delay for 30 days the effective date of this action, the 
aggregated right whales would be vulnerable to entanglement, which 
could cause serious injury and mortality. Additionally, right whales 
would likely move to another location between the time NMFS approved 
the action creating the DAM restricted zone and the time it went into 
effect, thereby rendering the action obsolete and ineffective. 
Nevertheless, NMFS recognizes the need for fishermen to have time to 
either modify or remove (if not in compliance with the required 
restrictions) their gear from a DAM zone once one is approved. Thus, 
NMFS makes this action effective 2 days after the date of publication 
of this document in the Federal Register. NMFS will also endeavor to 
provide notice of this action to fishermen through other means upon 
issuance of the rule by the AA, thereby providing approximately 3 
additional days of notice while the Office of the Federal Register 
processes the document for publication.
    NMFS determined that the regulations establishing the DAM program 
and actions such as this one taken pursuant to those regulations are 
consistent to the maximum extent practicable with the enforceable 
policies of the approved coastal management program of the U.S. 
Atlantic coastal states. This determination was submitted for review by 
the responsible state agencies under section 307 of the Coastal Zone 
Management Act. Following state review of the regulations creating the 
DAM program, no state disagreed with NMFS' conclusion that the DAM 
program is consistent to the maximum extent practicable with the 
enforceable policies of the approved coastal management program for 
that state.
    The DAM program under which NMFS is taking this action contains 
policies with federalism implications warranting preparation of a 
federalism assessment under Executive Order 13132. Accordingly, in 
October 2001 and March 2003, the Assistant Secretary for 
Intergovernmental and Legislative Affairs, Department of Commerce, 
provided notice of the DAM program and its amendments to the 
appropriate elected officials in states to be affected by actions taken 
pursuant to the DAM program. Federalism issues raised by state 
officials were addressed in the final rules implementing the DAM

[[Page 11840]]

program. A copy of the federalism Summary Impact Statement for the 
final rules is available upon request (ADDRESSES).
    The rule implementing the DAM program has been determined to be not 
significant under Executive Order 12866.

    Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1361 et seq. and 50 CFR 229.32(g)(3).

    Dated: February 28, 2008.
James W. Balsiger,
Acting Assistant Administrator for Fisheries, National Marine Fisheries 
Service.
[FR Doc. 08-952 Filed 2-29-08; 12:35 pm]
BILLING CODE 3510-22-S
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.