Caribbean Fishery Management Council; Scoping Meetings, 41454-41463 [2011-17674]

Download as PDF 41454 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 135 / Thursday, July 14, 2011 / Notices by NOAA on property currently occupied and managed by NOAA. The proposed changes involve demolition of the majority of the NOAA Southwest West Fisheries Science Center Building A and establishment of a geohazard stabilization system consisting of tiebacks to secure foundations for the remaining structure (Building D) and access areas. The tie-back system requires more substantial excavation to be installed within a geologically sensitive coastal bluff. Consistent with 40 CFR 1502.9(c)(1)(i), this SEIS will focus on the environmental effects of the proposed changes and feasible alternatives including the no-action alternative, and analyze the potential effects to affected resources such as: Geological conditions, hydraulic processes, construction noise, traffic/ pedestrian circulation, air emissions, and protected wildlife. While scoping meetings are not being held for the SEIS, NOAA is requesting written comments and input, including, but not limited to, technical information related to the proposed actions, information regarding potentially affected resources in the area, and community interests or concerns on the potential for environmental effects of the proposed action and alternatives. NOAA will also rely on prior scoping documents and comments received during preparation of the original FEIS/EIR. Additional public involvement opportunities associated with this SEIS will occur, including a public comment period on the Supplemental Draft EIS to be announced as a Notice of Availability in the Federal Register. Dated: July 8, 2011. William F. Broglie, Chief Administrative Officer, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. [FR Doc. 2011–17764 Filed 7–13–11; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3510–12–P DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration [RIN 0648–XA565] Caribbean Fishery Management Council; Scoping Meetings National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Commerce. ACTION: Notice of public hearings. AGENCY: The Caribbean Fishery Management Council will hold public hearings to obtain input from fishers, the general public, and the local agencies representatives on the Draft Comprehensive Amendment to the FMPs establishing annual catch limits (ACL) and accountability measures (AMs) for species not overfished or undergoing overfishing. DATES AND ADDRESSES: The scoping meetings will be held on the following dates and locations: For Puerto Rico August 2, 2011, DoubleTree by Hilton San Juan, De Diego Avenue, San Juan, Puerto Rico. August 3, 2011, Holiday Inn Ponce & Tropical Casino, 3315 Ponce By Pass, Ponce, Puerto Rico. ¨ August 4, 2011, Mayaguez Holiday Inn, 2701 Hostos Avenue, ¨ Mayaguez, Puerto Rico. SUMMARY: For the U.S. Virgin Islands August 3, 2011, The Buccaneer Hotel, Estate Shoys, Christiansted, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands. August 4, 2011, Holiday Inn (Windward Passage Hotel) Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands. All meetings will be held from 7 to 10 p.m. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Caribbean Fishery Management Council, ˜ 268 Munoz Rivera Avenue, Suite 1108, San Juan, Puerto Rico 00918–1920, telephone (787) 766–5926. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The Caribbean Fishery Management Council will hold public hearings to receive public input on the following management options. The complete document is available at: https:// www.caribbeanfmc.com or you may contact Ms. Livia Montalvo at livia_montalvo_cfmc@yahoo.com, or the Council office at (787) 766–5926 to obtain copies. 4.0 Actions and Alternatives 4.1 Action 1: Management Reference Points for Species not Undergoing Overfishing within the Reef Fish FMP 4.1.1 Action 1(a). Establish a year sequence for determining average annual landings for each species or species group within the Reef Fish Fishery Management Plan (FMP). Alternative 1. No action. Retain the year sequence as defined in the 2005 Comprehensive Sustainable Fisheries Act Amendment (Caribbean SFA Amendment). Alternative 2. Redefine management reference points or proxies for the Reef Fish FMP based on the longest year sequence of reliable landings data. TABLE 4.1.1—YEAR SEQUENCES BY ISLAND GROUP UNDER ALTERNATIVE 2 Reference point Year sequence Puerto Rico Commercial ................................................................................................................................................................ Puerto Rico Recreational ............................................................................................................................................................... St. Croix ......................................................................................................................................................................................... St. Thomas/St. John ...................................................................................................................................................................... wreier-aviles on DSKGBLS3C1PROD with NOTICES Alternative 3. Redefine management reference points or proxies for the Reef Fish FMP based on the longest year sequence of pre-Caribbean SFA Amendment landings data that is 1988–2009 2000–2009 1999–2008 2000–2008 considered consistently reliable across all islands. TABLE 4.1.2—YEAR SEQUENCES BY ISLAND GROUP UNDER ALTERNATIVE 3 Reference point Year sequence Puerto Rico Commercial ................................................................................................................................................................ Puerto Rico Recreational ............................................................................................................................................................... St. Croix ......................................................................................................................................................................................... St. Thomas/St. John ...................................................................................................................................................................... VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:55 Jul 13, 2011 Jkt 223001 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 E:\FR\FM\14JYN1.SGM 14JYN1 1999–2005 2000–2005 1999–2005 2000–2005 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 135 / Thursday, July 14, 2011 / Notices Alternative 4. Redefine management reference points or proxies for the Reef Fish FMP based on the longest year 41455 sequence of recent reliable landings data. TABLE 4.1.3—YEAR SEQUENCES BY ISLAND GROUP UNDER ALTERNATIVE 4 Reference point Year sequence Puerto Rico Commercial ................................................................................................................................................................ Puerto Rico Recreational ............................................................................................................................................................... St. Croix ......................................................................................................................................................................................... St. Thomas/St. John ...................................................................................................................................................................... Alternative 5. Redefine management reference points or proxies for the Reef 1999–2009 2000–2009 1999–2008 2000–2008 Fish FMP based on the most recent five years of available landings data. TABLE 4.1.4—YEAR SEQUENCES BY ISLAND GROUP UNDER ALTERNATIVE 5 Reference point Year sequence Puerto Rico Commercial ................................................................................................................................................................ Puerto Rico Recreational ............................................................................................................................................................... St. Croix ......................................................................................................................................................................................... St. Thomas/St. John ...................................................................................................................................................................... 4.1.2 Action 1(b). Establish management reference points for the reef fish species not undergoing overfishing. Sub-Action 1. Establish management reference points for the reef fish species not undergoing overfishing in Puerto Rico. Alternative 1: No action. Retain current management reference points or proxies for species/species groups. Alternative 2(a) through 2(o): Redefine management reference points or proxies based on the year sequence of landings data as defined in Action 1(a) Alternatives 1–5. Sub-Action 2. Establish management reference points for the reef fish species not undergoing overfishing in St Croix. Alternative 1: No action. Retain current management reference points or proxies for species/species groups. Alternative 2(a) through 2(o): Redefine management reference points or proxies based on the year sequence of landings data as defined in Action 1(a) Alternatives 1–5. 2005–2009 2005–2009 2004–2008 2004–2008 Sub-Action 3. Establish management reference points for the reef fish species not undergoing overfishing in St. Thomas/St. John. Alternative 1: No action. Retain current management reference points or proxies for species/species groups. Alternative 2(a) through 2(o): Redefine management reference points or proxies based on the year sequence of landings data as defined in Action 1(a) Alternatives 1–5. TABLE 4.1.4—CURRENT MSY PROXY, OY AND OVERFISHING THRESHOLD DEFINITIONS FOR SPECIES/SPECIES GROUPS Reference point Alternative 1—Status quo definition Maximum Sustainable Yield ................................ MSY proxy = C/[(FCURR/FMSY) × (BCURR/BMSY)]; where C is calculated based on commercial landings for the years 1997–2001 for Puerto Rico and 1994–2002 for the USVI, and on recreational landings for the years 2000–2001. MFMT = FMSY. OY = average yield associated with fishing on a continuing basis at FOY; where FOY = 0.75FMSY. Overfishing Threshold ......................................... Optimum Yield ..................................................... TABLE 4.1.5—MANAGEMENT REFERENCE POINTS OR PROXIES PROPOSED FOR THE REEF FISH SPECIES NOT UNDERGOING OVERFISHING UNDER ALTERNATIVE 2 wreier-aviles on DSKGBLS3C1PROD with NOTICES Reference point Maximum Sustainable Yield: Alternative 2(a) ............................................. Alternative 2(b) ............................................. Alternative 2(c) ............................................. Overfishing Threshold: Alternative 2(d) ............................................. Alternative 2(e) .................................................... Alternative 2(f) .............................................. VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:55 Jul 13, 2011 Jkt 223001 MSY proxy = Median annual landings selected by Council in Action 2(a). MSY proxy = Mean annual landings selected by Council in Action 2(a). MSY proxy = Maximum of a single year of recreational landings × 3. OFL = MSY proxy adjusted according to the ORCS scalar; overfishing occurs when annual landings exceed the OFL. OFL = MSY proxy adjusted according to the ORCS scalar; overfishing occurs when annual landings exceed the OFL, unless NOAA Fisheries’ Southeast Fisheries Science Center (in consultation with the Caribbean Fishery Management Council and its SSC) determines the overage occurred because data collection/monitoring improved, rather than because landings actually increased. OFL = MSY proxy; overfishing occurs when annual landings exceed the OFL. PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 E:\FR\FM\14JYN1.SGM 14JYN1 41456 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 135 / Thursday, July 14, 2011 / Notices TABLE 4.1.5—MANAGEMENT REFERENCE POINTS OR PROXIES PROPOSED FOR THE REEF FISH SPECIES NOT UNDERGOING OVERFISHING UNDER ALTERNATIVE 2—Continued Reference point Alternative 2(g) ............................................. Acceptable Biological Catch/ABC Control Rule: Alternative 2(h) ............................................. Alternative 2(i) .............................................. Alternative 2(j) .............................................. Alternative 2(k) ............................................. Optimum Yield/Annual Catch Limit: Alternative 2(l) .............................................. Alternative 2(m) ............................................ Alternative 2(n) ............................................. Alternative 2(o) ............................................. 4.2 Action 2: Management Reference Points for the Caribbean Spiny Lobster 4.2.1 Action 2(a). Establish a year sequence for determining average OFL = MSY proxy; overfishing occurs when annual landings exceed the OFL, unless NOAA Fisheries’ Southeast Fisheries Science Center (in consultation with the Caribbean Fishery Management Council and its SSC) determines the overage occurred because data collection/monitoring improved, rather than because landings actually increased. ABC= ABC= ABC= ABC= OFL. [OFL × 0.85]. [OFL × 0.75]. [OFL × 0.50]. OY OY OY OY ACL ACL ACL ACL = = = = = = = = ABC. [ABC × (0.85)]. [ABC × (0.75)]. [ABC × (0.50)]. annual landings for the Caribbean Spiny Lobster. Alternative 1. No action. Retain the year sequence for Caribbean Spiny Lobster FMP landings as defined in the Caribbean SFA Amendment. Alternative 2. Redefine management reference points or proxies for the Caribbean Spiny Lobster FMP based on the longest year sequence of reliable landings data. TABLE 4.2.1—YEAR SEQUENCES BY ISLAND GROUP UNDER ALTERNATIVE 2 Reference point Year sequence Puerto Rico .................................................................................................................................................................................... St. Croix ......................................................................................................................................................................................... St. Thomas/St. John ...................................................................................................................................................................... Alternative 3. Redefine management reference points or proxies for the Caribbean Spiny Lobster FMP based on the longest year sequence of preCaribbean SFA Amendment landings 1988–2009 1999–2008 2000–2008 data that is considered consistently reliable across all islands. TABLE 4.2.2—YEAR SEQUENCES BY ISLAND GROUP UNDER ALTERNATIVE 3 Reference point Year sequence Puerto Rico .................................................................................................................................................................................... St. Croix ......................................................................................................................................................................................... St. Thomas/St. John ...................................................................................................................................................................... Alternative 4. Redefine management reference points or proxies for the Caribbean Spiny Lobster FMP based on 1999–2005 1999–2005 2000–2005 the longest year sequence of recent reliable landings data. TABLE 4.2.3—YEAR SEQUENCES BY ISLAND GROUP UNDER ALTERNATIVE 4 Reference point Year sequence wreier-aviles on DSKGBLS3C1PROD with NOTICES Puerto Rico .................................................................................................................................................................................... St. Croix ......................................................................................................................................................................................... St. Thomas/St. John ...................................................................................................................................................................... Alternative 5. Redefine management reference points or proxies for the Caribbean Spiny Lobster FMP based on VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:55 Jul 13, 2011 Jkt 223001 the most recent five years of available landings data. PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 E:\FR\FM\14JYN1.SGM 14JYN1 1999–2009 1999–2008 2000–2008 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 135 / Thursday, July 14, 2011 / Notices 41457 TABLE 4.2.4—YEAR SEQUENCES BY ISLAND GROUP UNDER ALTERNATIVE 5 Reference point Year sequence Puerto Rico .................................................................................................................................................................................... St. Croix ......................................................................................................................................................................................... St. Thomas/St. John ...................................................................................................................................................................... 4.2.2 Action 2(b). Establish management reference points for the Caribbean Spiny Lobster. Sub-Action 1. Establish management reference points for the Caribbean Spiny Lobster in Puerto Rico. Alternative 1: No action. Retain current management reference points or proxies for spiny losbter. Alternative 2(a) through 2(n): Redefine management reference points or proxies based on the year sequence of landings data as defined in Action 2(a) Alternatives 1–5. Sub-Action 2. Establish management reference points for the Caribbean Spiny Lobster in St. Croix. Alternative 1: No action. Retain current management reference points or proxies for spiny lobster. Alternative 2(a) through 2(n): Redefine management reference points or proxies based on the year sequence of landings data as defined in Action 2(a) Alternatives 1–5. 2005–2009 2004–2008 2004–2008 Sub-Action 3. Establish management reference points for the Caribbean Spiny Lobster in St. Thomas/St. John. Alternative 1: No action. Retain current management reference points or proxies for spiny lobster groups. Alternative 2(a) through 2(n): Redefine management reference points or proxies based on the year sequence of landings data as defined in Action 2(a) Alternatives 1–5. TABLE 4.2.4—CURRENT MSY PROXY, OY AND OVERFISHING THRESHOLD DEFINITIONS FOR SPINY LOBSTER Reference point Alternative 1—Status quo definition Maximum Sustainable Yield ................................ MSY proxy = C/[(FCURR/FMSY) × (BCURR/BMSY)]; where C is calculated based on commercial landings for the years 1997–2001 for Puerto Rico and 1994–2002 for the USVI, and on recreational landings for the years 2000–2001. MFMT = FMSY. OY = average yield associated with fishing on a continuing basis at FOY; where FOY = 0.75FMSY. Overfishing Threshold ......................................... Optimum Yield ..................................................... TABLE 4.2.5—MANAGEMENT REFERENCE POINTS OR PROXIES PROPOSED FOR SPINY LOBSTER UNDER ALTERNATIVE 2 Reference point Maximum Sustainable Yield: Alternative 2(a) ............................................. Alternative 2(b) ............................................. Overfishing Threshold: Alternative 2(c) ............................................. Alternative 2(d) ............................................. wreier-aviles on DSKGBLS3C1PROD with NOTICES Alternative 2(e) ............................................. Alternative 2(f) .............................................. Acceptable Biological Catch/ABC Control Rule: Alternative 2(g) ............................................. Alternative 2(h) ............................................. Alternative 2(i) .............................................. Alternative 2(j) .............................................. Optimum Yield/Annual Catch Limit: Alternative 2(k) ............................................. Alternative 2(l) .............................................. Alternative 2(m) ............................................ Alternative 2(n) ............................................. VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:55 Jul 13, 2011 Jkt 223001 MSY proxy = Median annual landings selected by Council in Action 2(a). MSY proxy = Mean annual landings selected by Council in Action 2(a). OFL = MSY proxy adjusted according the ORCS scalar; overfishing occurs when annual landings exceed the OFL. OFL = MSY proxy adjusted according the ORCS scalar; overfishing occurs when annual landings exceed the OFL, unless NOAA Fisheries’ Southeast Fisheries Science Center (in consultation with the Caribbean Fishery Management Council and its SSC) determines the overage occurred because data collection/monitoring improved, rather than because landings actually increased. OFL = MSY proxy; overfishing occurs when annual landings exceed the OFL. OFL = MSY proxy; overfishing occurs when annual landings exceed the OFL, unless NOAA Fisheries’ Southeast Fisheries Science Center (in consultation with the Caribbean Fishery Management Council and its SSC) determines the overage occurred because data collection/monitoring improved, rather than because landings actually increased. ABC= ABC= ABC= ABC= OFL. [OFL × 0.85]. [OFL × 0.75]. [OFL × 0.50]. OY OY OY OY ACL ACL ACL ACL PO 00000 = = = = Frm 00010 = = = = ABC. [ABC × (0.85)]. [ABC × (0.75)]. [ABC × (0.50)]. Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 E:\FR\FM\14JYN1.SGM 14JYN1 wreier-aviles on DSKGBLS3C1PROD with NOTICES 41458 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 135 / Thursday, July 14, 2011 / Notices 4.3 Action 3: Redefine Management of the Aquarium Trade Species Fishery Management Units (FMUs) Within the Reef Fish FMP and the Coral and Reef Associated Plants and Invertebrates FMP (Coral FMP) 4.3.1 Action 3(a): Redefine the management of aquarium trade species FMU. Alternative 1: No action. Retain aquarium trade species in both the Corals and Reef Associated Plants and Invertebrates FMP (Coral FMP) and the Reef Fish FMP as defined in the Caribbean SFA Amendment. Alternative 2: Consolidate all aquarium trade species listed in the FMP for Coral FMP and the Reef Fish FMP into a single FMP. Alternative 2A: Move all aquarium trade species listed in the Coral FMP into the Reef Fish FMP. Alternative 2B: Move all of the aquarium trade species listed in the Reef Fish FMP into the Coral FMP. Alternative 2C: Move all of the aquarium trade species listed in both the Coral FMP and the Reef Fish FMPs into a new FMP specific to aquarium trade species. Alternative 3: Remove all aquarium trade species from both the Coral FMP and from the Reef Fish FMPs. Alternative 4: Manage only those aquarium trade species listed in either the Coral FMP or the Reef Fish FMP, for which landings data are available during the year sequence chosen in Action 1(a). Remove remaining aquarium trade species from the Coral FMP and the Reef Fish FMP. Alternative 4A: Aquarium trade species that continue to be Federallymanaged under this alternative will be retained in either the Coral FMP or the Reef Fish FMP as listed after the Caribbean SFA Amendment (Table 4.3.1). Alternative 4B: Aquarium trade species that continue to be Federallymanaged under this alternative will be consolidated and moved into the Coral FMP. Alternative 4C: Aquarium trade species that continue to be Federallymanaged under this alternative will be consolidated and moved into the Reef fish FMP. Alternative 4D: Aquarium trade species that continue to be Federallymanaged under this alternative will be consolidated and moved into a new FMP specific to aquarium trade species. Alternative 5: Delegate management authority for all aquarium trade species listed in either the Coral FMP or the Reef Fish FMP to the jurisdiction of the appropriate commonwealth or territory as defined by Action 5 of this document. VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:55 Jul 13, 2011 Jkt 223001 Table 4.3.1. List of all species included in the Aquarium Trade category in both the Reef Fish and Coral FMPs. Table contents are extracted from Table 8 of the Comprehensive Amendment to the FMPs of the U.S. Caribbean to Address Required Provisions of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (Caribbean SFA Amendment). Reef Fish FMP Clepticus parrae, Creole wrasse. Halichoeres garnoti, Yellowhead wrasse. Halichoeres cyanocephalus, Yellowcheek wrasse. Halichoeres maculipinna, Clown wrasse. Thalassoma bifasciatum, Bluehead wrasse. Liopropoma rubre, Swissguard basslet. Gramma loreto, Royal gramma. Microspathodon chrysurus, Yellowtail damselfish. Stegastes adustus, Dusky damselfish. Stegastes partitus, Bicolor damselfish. Stegastes planifrons, Threespot damselfish. Stegastes leucostictus, Beaugregory. Chaetodon capistratus, Foureye butterflyfish. Chaetodon aculeatus, Longsnout butterflyfish. Chaetodon ocellatus, Spotfin butterflyfish. Chaetodon striatus, Banded butterflyfish. Serranus baldwini, Lantern bass. Serranus annularis, Orangeback bass. Serranus tabacarius, Tobaccofish. Serranus tigrinus, Harlequin bass. Serranus tortugarum, Chalk bass. Opistognathus aurifrons, Yellowhead jawfish. Opistognathus whitehursti, Dusky jawfish. Xyrichtys novacula, Pearly razorfish. Xyrichtys splendens, Green razorfish. Echidna catenata, Chain moray. Gymnothorax funebris, Green moray. Gymnothorax miliaris, Goldentail moray. Elacatinus oceanops, Neon goby. Priolepis hipoliti, Rusty goby. Equetus lanceolatus, Jackknife-fish. Equetus punctatus, Spotted drum. Chromis cyanea, Blue chromis. Chromis insolata, Sunshinefish. Abudefduf saxatilis, Sergeant major. Astrapogon stellatus, Conchfish. Apogon maculatua, Flamefish. Amblycirrhitus pinos, Redspotted hawkfish. Antennarius spp., Frogfish. Bothus lunatus, Peacock flounder. Chaetodipterus faber, Atlantic spadefish. Canthigaster rostrata, Sharpnose puffer. PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 Centropyge argi, Cherubfish. Diodon hystrix, Porcupinefish. Dactylopterus volitans, Flying gurnard. Heteropriacanthus cruentatus, Glasseye snapper. Hypoplectrus unicolor, Butter hamlet. Holocanthus tricolor, Rock beauty. Myrichthys ocellatus, Goldspotted eel. Ophioblennius macclurei, Redlip blenny. Pareques acuminatus, High-hat. Rypticus saponaceus, Greater sopafish. Synodus intermedius, Sand diver. Symphurus diomedianus, Caribbean tonguefish. Family Syngnathidae, Pipefishes and Seahorses. Family Ogcocephalidae, Batfish. Family Scorpaenidae, Scorpionfish. Table 4.3.1. (continued). List of all species included in the Aquarium Trade category in both the Reef Fish and Coral FMPs. Table contents are extracted from Table 8 of the Comprehensive Amendment to the FMPs of the U.S. Caribbean to Address Required Provisions of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (Caribbean SFA Amendment). Coral FMP Aphimedon compressa, Erect rope sponge Astrophyton muricatum, Giant basket star Alpheaus armatus, Snapping shrimp Aiptasia tagetes, Pale anemone Astropecten spp., Sand stars Analcidometra armata, Swimming crinoid Bartholomea annulata, Corkscrew anemone Cynachirella alloclada, sponge (no common name) Condylactis gigantea, Giant pink-tipped anemone Cyphoma gibbosum, Flamingo tongue Chondrilla nucula, Chicken liver sponge Diadema antillarum, Long-spined urchin Davidaster spp., Crinoids Discosoma spp., False coral Echinometra spp., Purple urchin Eucidaris tribuloides, Pencil urchin Gonodactylus (Neogonodactylus) spp., Smashing mantis shrimp Geodia neptuni, Potato sponge Haliclona sp., Finger sponge Holothuria spp., Sea cucumbers Hereractis lucida, Knobby anemone Lima spp., Fileclams Lima scabra, Rough fileclam Lytechinus spp., Pin cushion urchin Lysmata spp., Peppermint shrimp Linckia guildingii, Common comet star Lysiosquilla spp., Spearing mantis shrimp Lebrunia spp., Staghorn anemone Mithrax spp., Clinging crabs E:\FR\FM\14JYN1.SGM 14JYN1 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 135 / Thursday, July 14, 2011 / Notices Mithrax cinctimanus, Banded clinging crab Mithrax sculptus, Green clinging crab Myriastra sp., sponge (no common name) Niphates digitalis, Pink vase sponge Niphates erecta, Lavender rope sponge Nemaster spp., Crinoids Ophiocoma spp., Brittlestars Ophioderma spp., Brittlestars Ophioderma rubicundum, Ruby brittlestar Oreaster reticulatus, Cushion sea star Ophidiaster guildingii, Comet star Oliva reticularis, Netted olive Octopus spp. (except the Common octopus, O. vulgaris) Paguristes spp., Hermit crabs Paguristes cadenati, Red reef hermit crab Percnon gibbesi, Nimble spray crab Periclimenes spp., Cleaner shrimp Ricordia florida, Florida false coral Stichodactyla helianthus, Sun anemone Spirobranchus giganteus, Christmas tree worm Sabellastarte magnifica, Magnificent duster Sabellastarte spp., Tube worms Stenopus scutellatus, Golden shrimp Stenopus hispidus, Banded shrimp Stenorhynchus seticornis, Yellowline arrow crab Spondylus americanus, Atlantic thorny oyster Spinosella plicifera, Iridescent tube sponge Spinosella vaginalis, Lavendar tube sponge Tripneustes ventricosus, Sea egg urchin Thor amboinensis, Anemone shrimp 41459 Tectitethya (Tethya) crypta, sponge (no common name) Subphylum Urochordata, Tunicates Tridachia crispata, Lettuce sea slug Zoanthus spp., Sea mat 4.3.2 Action 3(b). Establish management reference points for the aquarium trade species FMU. Alternative 1: No action. Keep the aquarium trade species in the ‘‘data collection only’’ category as defined in the Caribbean SFA Amendment. Alternative 2(a) through 2(k): Establish management reference points or proxies for the aquarium trade species based on alternative selected in Action 3(a) and time series of landings data as defined in Action 1(a) in Alternatives 1–5. TABLE 4.3.2—MANAGEMENT REFERENCE POINTS OR PROXIES PROPOSED FOR THE AQUARIUM TRADE SPECIES UNDER ALTERNATIVE 2 Reference Point Maximum Sustainable Yield: Alternative 2(a) ............................................. Alternative 2(b) ............................................. Overfishing Threshold: Alternative 2(c) ............................................. Alternative 2(d) ............................................. Acceptable Biological Catch/ABC Control Rule: Alternative 2(e) ............................................. Alternative 2(f) .............................................. Alternative 2(g) ............................................. Alternative 2(h) ............................................. Optimum Yield/Annual Catch Limit: Alternative 2(i) .............................................. Alternative 2(j) .............................................. Alternative 2(k) ............................................. Alternative 2(l) .............................................. wreier-aviles on DSKGBLS3C1PROD with NOTICES Alternative 1: No action. Do not reevaluate and revise the conch species FMU. Alternative 2: Remove all conch species, except for the queen conch (Strombus gigas), from the Queen Conch FMP. Alternative 3: Delegate management authority, for all conch species except queen conch (Strombus gigas), listed in the Queen Conch FMP, to the jurisdiction of the appropriate commonwealth or territory as defined by Action 5. Alternative 4: Retain all conch species under the Queen Conch FMP and define management reference points or proxies based on the ACL established for queen 14:55 Jul 13, 2011 Jkt 223001 OFL = MSY proxy; overfishing occurs when annual landings exceed the OFL. OFL = MSY proxy; overfishing occurs when annual landings exceed the OFL, unless NOAA Fisheries’ Southeast Fisheries Science Center (in consultation with the Caribbean Fishery Management Council and its SSC) determines the overage occurred because data collection/monitoring improved, rather than because landings actually increased. ABC ABC ABC ABC = = = = OY OY OY OY ACL ACL ACL ACL = = = = OFL. [OFL × 0.85]. [OFL × 0.75]. [OFL × 0.50]. = = = = ABC. [ABC × (0.85)]. [ABC × (0.75)]. [ABC × (0.50)]. conch in the 2010 Caribbean ACL Amendment public hearing draft. 4.4 Action 4: Redefine the Management of Conch Species FMU Within the Queen Conch FMP VerDate Mar<15>2010 MSY proxy = Median annual landings selected by Council in Action 2(a). MSY proxy = Mean annual landings selected by Council in Action 2(a). TABLE 4.4.1—LIST OF CONCH SPECIES WITHIN THE QUEEN CONCH FMP NOT UNDERGOING OVERFISHING AS ESTABLISHED IN THE CARIBBEAN SFA AMENDMENT Scientific names Common names Strombus gigas ......... Strombus costatus .... Strombus pugilis ....... Queen conch. Milk conch. West Indian Fighting Conch. Roostertail Conch. Hawkwing Conch. True Tulip. Atlantic Triton’s Trumpet. Cameo Helmet. Strombus gallus ........ Strombus raninus ...... Fasciolaria tulipa ....... Charonia variegata .... Cassis madagascarensis. Astrea tuber .............. PO 00000 Green Start Shell. 4.5 Action 5. Geographic Allocation/ Management Alternative 1. No Action. Maintain U.S. Caribbean-wide reference points. Alternative 2. Divide and manage ACLs by island group (i.e., Puerto Rico, St. Thomas/St. John, St. Croix) based on the preferred management reference point time series selected by the Council in Actions 1(a) and 2(a). Alternative 2A. Use a mid-point or equidistant method for dividing the EEZ among islands. Alternative 2B. Use a straight-line approach for dividing the EEZ among islands. Alternative 2C. Use the St. Thomas Fishermen’s Association recommendation for dividing the EEZ among islands. BILLING CODE 3510–22–P Frm 00012 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 E:\FR\FM\14JYN1.SGM 14JYN1 VerDate Mar<15>2010 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 135 / Thursday, July 14, 2011 / Notices 14:55 Jul 13, 2011 Jkt 223001 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4725 E:\FR\FM\14JYN1.SGM 14JYN1 EN14JY11.000</GPH> wreier-aviles on DSKGBLS3C1PROD with NOTICES 41460 41461 BILLING CODE 3510–22–C VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:55 Jul 13, 2011 Jkt 223001 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 E:\FR\FM\14JYN1.SGM 14JYN1 EN14JY11.001</GPH> wreier-aviles on DSKGBLS3C1PROD with NOTICES Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 135 / Thursday, July 14, 2011 / Notices wreier-aviles on DSKGBLS3C1PROD with NOTICES 41462 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 135 / Thursday, July 14, 2011 / Notices 4.6 Action 6: Annual Catch Limit Allocation and Management 4.6.1 Action 6(a) Separation of recreational and commercial sectors (Puerto Rico only). Alternative 1. No action. Do not specify sector-specific ACLs. Alternative 2. Specify separate commercial and recreational ACLs based on the preferred management reference point time series. 4.6.2 Action 6(b) Establish bag limit restrictions on recreational reef fish harvest. Alternative 1. No action. Do not establish bag limit restrictions on recreational reef fish harvest. Alternative 2. Establish a 5-fish aggregate bag limit per person per fishing day (would not apply to a fisher who has a valid commercial fishing license) Alternative 3. Establish a 2-fish aggregate bag limit per person per fishing day (would not apply to a fisher who has a valid commercial fishing license) Alternative 4. Prohibits the harvest of species in the surgeonfish FMU (would not apply to a fisher who has a valid commercial fishing license). Alternative 5. Establish an aggregate bag limit of 10 fish per fisher including not more than two surgeonfish per fisher or six surgeonfish per boat, and 30 aggregate fish per boat on a fishing day (would not apply to a fishers who has a valid commercial fishing license). Alternative 6. Establish an aggregate bag limit of 5 fish per fisher including not more than two surgeonfish per fisher or six surgeonfish per boat, and 15 aggregate fish per boat on a fishing day (would not apply to a fisher who has a valid commercial fishing license). 4.6.3 Action 6(c) Establish bag limit restrictions on recreational spiny lobster harvest. Alternative 1. No action. Do not establish bag limit restrictions on recreational lobster harvest. Alternative 2. Establish a 5-spiny lobster aggregate bag limit per person per fishing day (would not apply to a fisher who has a valid commercial fishing license). Alternative 3. Establish a 2-spiny lobster bag limit per person per fishing day (would not apply to a fisher who has a valid commercial fishing license). Alternative 4. Prohibits the harvest of spiny lobster (would not apply to a fishers who has a valid commercial fishing license). Alternative 5. Establish a bag limit of: 5 spiny lobster per fisher and 15 spiny lobster per boat on a fishing day (would not apply to a fisher who has a valid commercial fishing license). VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:55 Jul 13, 2011 Jkt 223001 Alternative 6. Establish a bag limit of: 2 spiny lobster per fisher and 12 spiny lobster per boat on a fishing day (would not apply to a fisher who has a valid commercial fishing license). 4.7 Action 7: Accountability Measures for Species Considered in This Amendment Accountability measures (AMs) are defined as management controls to prevent ACLs, including sector-specific ACLs, from being exceeded, and to correct or mitigate overages of the ACL if they occur (50 CFR 310(g)(1)). 4.7.1 Action 7(a) Triggering accountability measures. Actions 1, 2, 3, and 4 include alternatives to establish and allocate ACLs. If an ACL is exceeded, AM alternatives are provided to address overages. Action 7 alternatives are presented in two parts, the first addresses the triggering of AMs and the second addresses the actual actions needed to redress overages. Alternative 1. No Action. Do not establish criteria for triggering AMs. Alternative 2. Trigger AMs if the ACL is exceeded based upon: Alternative 2A: A single year of landings beginning with landings from 2011. Alternative 2B: A single year of landings beginning with landings from 2011, then a 2-year running average of landings in 2012 (average of 2011+2012) and thereafter (i.e., 2011, 2011–2012, 2012–2013, etc.). Alternative 2C: A single year of landings beginning with landings from 2011, a 2-year average of landings in 2012 (average of 2011+2012), then a 3year running average of landings in 2013 (average of 2011+2012+2013) and thereafter (i.e., 2011, 2011–2012, 2011– 2013, 2012–2014, etc.). Alternative 3. Trigger AMs if the ACL is exceeded as defined below unless NOAA Fisheries’ SEFSC (in consultation with the Council and its SSC) determines the overage occurred because data collection/monitoring improved rather than because catches actually increased: Alternative 3A: A single year of landings effective beginning 2011. Alternative 3B: A single year of landings effective beginning 2011, then a 2-year running average of landings effective 2012 and thereafter (i.e., 2011, 2011–2012, 2012–2013, etc.). Alternative 3C: A single year of landings effective beginning 2011, a 2year running average of landings effective 2012, then a 3-year running average of landings effective 2013 and thereafter (i.e., 2011, 2011–2012, 2011– 2013, 2012–2014, etc.). PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 4.7.2 Action 7(b) Applying accountability measures. Alternative 1. No Action. Do not apply AMs. Alternative 2. If AMs are triggered, based upon the preferred criteria chosen in Action 7(a), reduce the length of the fishing season for that species or species group the year following the trigger determination by the amount needed to prevent such an overage from occurring again. The needed changes will remain in effect until modified. Alternative 3. If AMs are triggered based upon the preferred criteria chosen in action 7(a), reduce the length of the fishing season for that species or species group the year following the trigger determination by the amount needed to prevent such an overage from occurring again and to pay back the overage. The needed changes will remain in effect until modified. 4.8 Action 8: Framework Measures 4.8.1 Action 8(a): Establish Framework Measures for Spiny Lobster FMP. Alternative 1: No Action. Do not establish framework measures for the Spiny Lobster FMP. Alternative 2: Amend the framework procedures for the Spiny Lobster FMP to provide a mechanism to expeditiously adjust the following reference points and management measures through framework action: a. Quota Requirements. b. Seasonal Closures. c. Area Closures. d. Fishing Year. e. Trip/Bag Limit. f. Size Limits. g. Gear Restrictions or Prohibitions. h. Fishery Management Units (FMUs). i. Total Allowable Catch (TAC). j. Annual Catch Limits (ACLs). k. Accountability Measures (AMs). l. Annual Catch Targets (ACTs). m. Maximum Sustainable Yield (MSY). n. Optimum Yield (OY). o. Minimum Stock Size Threshold (MSST). p. Maximum Fishing Mortality Threshold (MFMT). q. Overfishing Limit (OFL). r. Acceptable Biological Catch (ABC) Control Rules. s. Actions To Minimize the Interaction of Fishing Gear With Endangered Species or Marine Mammals. Alternative 3: Amend the framework procedures for the Spiny Lobster FMP to provide the Council with a mechanism to expeditiously adjust a subset of management measures outlined in Alternative 2. 4.8.2 Action 8 (b): Establish Framework Measures for Corals and E:\FR\FM\14JYN1.SGM 14JYN1 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 135 / Thursday, July 14, 2011 / Notices Reef Associated Plants and Invertebrates FMP. Alternative 1: No Action. Do not amend the current framework measures for the Corals FMP. Alternative 2: Amend the framework procedures for the Coral FMP to provide a mechanism to expeditiously adjust the following reference points and management measures through framework action: a. Quota Requirements. b. Seasonal Closures. c. Area Closures. d. Fishing Year. e. Trip/Bag Limit. f. Size Limits. g. Gear Restrictions or Prohibitions. h. Fishery Management Units (FMUs). i. Total Allowable Catch (TAC). j. Annual Catch Limits (ACLs). k. Accountability Measures (AMs). l. Annual Catch Targets (ACTs). m. Maximum Sustainable Yield (MSY). n. Optimum Yield (OY). o. Minimum Stock Size Threshold (MSST). p. Maximum Fishing Mortality Threshold (MFMT). q. Overfishing Limit (OFL). r. Acceptable Biological Catch (ABC) control rules. s. Actions To Minimize the Interaction of Fishing Gear With Endangered Species or Marine Mammals. Alternative 3: Amend the framework procedures for the Coral FMP to provide the Council with a mechanism to expeditiously adjust a subset of management measures outlined in Alternative 2. Written comments can be sent to the Council not later than August 15, 2011, or submitted at the Council meeting that will take place at La Concha hotel, in San Juan, Puerto Rico on August 30–31, 2011. wreier-aviles on DSKGBLS3C1PROD with NOTICES Special Accommodations These meetings are physically accessible to people with disabilities. For more information or request for sign language interpretation and other auxiliary aids, please contact Mr. ´ Miguel A. Rolon, Executive Director, Caribbean Fishery Management Council, ˜ 268 Munoz Rivera Avenue, Suite 1108, San Juan, Puerto Rico 00918–1920, telephone (787) 766–5926, at least five days prior to the meeting date. Dated: July 8, 2011. Tracey L. Thompson, Acting Director, Office of Sustainable Fisheries, National Marine Fisheries Service. [FR Doc. 2011–17674 Filed 7–13–11; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3510–22–P VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:55 Jul 13, 2011 Jkt 223001 41463 DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE the contact listed below (see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT), or National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration visiting the Internet at: https:// www.nmfs.noaa.gov/pr/permits/ incidental.htm. The National Science Foundation (NSF), which is providing funding to UAGI to conduct the survey, has prepared a draft ‘‘Environmental Assessment of a Marine Geophysical Survey by the R/V Marcus G. Langseth in the Arctic Ocean, September–October 2011,’’ prepared by LGL Ltd., Environmental Research Associates (LGL), on behalf of UAGI and NSF, which is also available at the same internet address. Documents cited in this notice may also be viewed, by appointment, during regular business hours, at the aforementioned address. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Candace Nachman, Office of Protected Resources, NMFS, (301) 427–8401. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: RIN 0648–XA568 Takes of Marine Mammals Incidental to Specified Activities; Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to a Marine Geophysical Survey in the Arctic Ocean, September–October 2011 Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS). ACTION: Notice; proposed incidental harassment authorization; request for comments. AGENCY: NMFS has received an application from the University of Alaska Geophysics Institute (UAGI) for an Incidental Harassment Authorization (IHA) to take marine mammals, by harassment, incidental to conducting a marine geophysical seismic survey in the Arctic Ocean during September– October 2011. Pursuant to the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), NMFS is requesting comments on its proposal to issue an IHA to UAGI to take, by Level B harassment only, several species of marine mammals during the specified activity. DATES: Comments and information must be received no later than August 15, 2011. SUMMARY: Comments on the application should be addressed to P. Michael Payne, Chief, Permits, Conservation and Education Division, Office of Protected Resources, National Marine Fisheries Service, 1315 EastWest Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910. The mailbox address for providing e-mail comments is ITP.Nachman@noaa.gov. NMFS is not responsible for e-mail comments sent to addresses other than the one provided here. Comments sent via e-mail, including all attachments, must not exceed a 10-megabyte file size. Instructions: All comments received are a part of the public record and will generally be posted to https:// www.nmfs.noaa.gov/pr/permits/ incidental.htm without change. All Personal Identifying Information (for example, name, address, etc.) voluntarily submitted by the commenter may be publicly accessible. Do not submit Confidential Business Information or otherwise sensitive or protected information. A copy of the application used in this document may be obtained by writing to the address specified above, telephoning ADDRESSES: PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 Background Sections 101(a)(5)(A) and (D) of the MMPA (16 U.S.C. 1361 et seq.) direct the Secretary of Commerce to allow, upon request, the incidental, but not intentional, taking of small numbers of marine mammals by U.S. citizens who engage in a specified activity (other than commercial fishing) within a specified geographical region if certain findings are made and either regulations are issued or, if the taking is limited to harassment, a notice of a proposed authorization is provided to the public for review. Authorization for incidental takings shall be granted if NMFS finds that the taking will have a negligible impact on the species or stock(s), will not have an unmitigable adverse impact on the availability of the species or stock(s) for subsistence uses (where relevant), and if the permissible methods of taking and requirements pertaining to the mitigation, monitoring, and reporting of such takings are set forth. NMFS has defined ‘‘negligible impact’’ in 50 CFR 216.103 as ‘‘* * * an impact resulting from the specified activity that cannot be reasonably expected to, and is not reasonably likely to, adversely affect the species or stock through effects on annual rates of recruitment or survival.’’ Section 101(a)(5)(D) of the MMPA established an expedited process by which citizens of the U.S. can apply for an authorization to incidentally take small numbers of marine mammals by harassment. Section 101(a)(5)(D) establishes a 45-day time limit for NMFS review of an application followed by a 30 day public notice and comment period on any proposed E:\FR\FM\14JYN1.SGM 14JYN1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 76, Number 135 (Thursday, July 14, 2011)]
[Notices]
[Pages 41454-41463]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2011-17674]

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

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

[RIN 0648-XA565]

Caribbean Fishery Management Council; Scoping Meetings

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

ACTION: Notice of public hearings.

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

SUMMARY: The Caribbean Fishery Management Council will hold public
hearings to obtain input from fishers, the general public, and the
local agencies representatives on the Draft Comprehensive Amendment to
the FMPs establishing annual catch limits (ACL) and accountability
measures (AMs) for species not overfished or undergoing overfishing.

DATES AND ADDRESSES: The scoping meetings will be held on the following
dates and locations:

For Puerto Rico
August 2, 2011, DoubleTree by Hilton San Juan, De Diego Avenue, San
Juan, Puerto Rico.
August 3, 2011, Holiday Inn Ponce & Tropical Casino, 3315 Ponce By
Pass, Ponce, Puerto Rico.
August 4, 2011, Mayag[uuml]ez Holiday Inn, 2701 Hostos Avenue,
Mayag[uuml]ez, Puerto Rico.
For the U.S. Virgin Islands
August 3, 2011, The Buccaneer Hotel, Estate Shoys, Christiansted,
St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands.
August 4, 2011, Holiday Inn (Windward Passage Hotel) Charlotte
Amalie, St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands.
All meetings will be held from 7 to 10 p.m.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Caribbean Fishery Management Council,
268 Mu[ntilde]oz Rivera Avenue, Suite 1108, San Juan, Puerto Rico
00918-1920, telephone (787) 766-5926.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The Caribbean Fishery Management Council
will hold public hearings to receive public input on the following
management options. The complete document is available at: https://www.caribbeanfmc.com or you may contact Ms. Livia Montalvo at livia_montalvo_cfmc@yahoo.com, or the Council office at (787) 766-5926 to
obtain copies.

4.0 Actions and Alternatives

4.1 Action 1: Management Reference Points for Species not Undergoing
Overfishing within the Reef Fish FMP

4.1.1 Action 1(a). Establish a year sequence for determining
average annual landings for each species or species group within the
Reef Fish Fishery Management Plan (FMP).
Alternative 1. No action. Retain the year sequence as defined in
the 2005 Comprehensive Sustainable Fisheries Act Amendment (Caribbean
SFA Amendment).
Alternative 2. Redefine management reference points or proxies for
the Reef Fish FMP based on the longest year sequence of reliable
landings data.

Table 4.1.1--Year Sequences by Island Group Under Alternative 2
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reference point Year sequence
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Puerto Rico Commercial............................... 1988-2009
Puerto Rico Recreational............................. 2000-2009
St. Croix............................................ 1999-2008
St. Thomas/St. John.................................. 2000-2008
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Alternative 3. Redefine management reference points or proxies for
the Reef Fish FMP based on the longest year sequence of pre-Caribbean
SFA Amendment landings data that is considered consistently reliable
across all islands.

Table 4.1.2--Year Sequences by Island Group Under Alternative 3
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reference point Year sequence
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Puerto Rico Commercial............................... 1999-2005
Puerto Rico Recreational............................. 2000-2005
St. Croix............................................ 1999-2005
St. Thomas/St. John.................................. 2000-2005
------------------------------------------------------------------------

[[Page 41455]]

Alternative 4. Redefine management reference points or proxies for
the Reef Fish FMP based on the longest year sequence of recent reliable
landings data.

Table 4.1.3--Year sequences by Island Group Under Alternative 4
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reference point Year sequence
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Puerto Rico Commercial............................... 1999-2009
Puerto Rico Recreational............................. 2000-2009
St. Croix............................................ 1999-2008
St. Thomas/St. John.................................. 2000-2008
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Alternative 5. Redefine management reference points or proxies for
the Reef Fish FMP based on the most recent five years of available
landings data.

Table 4.1.4--Year Sequences by Island Group Under Alternative 5
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reference point Year sequence
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Puerto Rico Commercial............................... 2005-2009
Puerto Rico Recreational............................. 2005-2009
St. Croix............................................ 2004-2008
St. Thomas/St. John.................................. 2004-2008
------------------------------------------------------------------------

4.1.2 Action 1(b). Establish management reference points for the
reef fish species not undergoing overfishing.
Sub-Action 1. Establish management reference points for the reef
fish species not undergoing overfishing in Puerto Rico.
Alternative 1: No action. Retain current management reference
points or proxies for species/species groups.
Alternative 2(a) through 2(o): Redefine management reference points
or proxies based on the year sequence of landings data as defined in
Action 1(a) Alternatives 1-5.
Sub-Action 2. Establish management reference points for the reef
fish species not undergoing overfishing in St Croix.
Alternative 1: No action. Retain current management reference
points or proxies for species/species groups.
Alternative 2(a) through 2(o): Redefine management reference points
or proxies based on the year sequence of landings data as defined in
Action 1(a) Alternatives 1-5.
Sub-Action 3. Establish management reference points for the reef
fish species not undergoing overfishing in St. Thomas/St. John.
Alternative 1: No action. Retain current management reference
points or proxies for species/species groups.
Alternative 2(a) through 2(o): Redefine management reference points
or proxies based on the year sequence of landings data as defined in
Action 1(a) Alternatives 1-5.

Table 4.1.4--Current MSY Proxy, OY and Overfishing Threshold Definitions
for Species/Species Groups
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reference point Alternative 1--Status quo definition
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maximum Sustainable Yield......... MSY proxy = C/[(FCURR/FMSY) x (BCURR/
BMSY)]; where C is calculated based
on commercial landings for the
years 1997-2001 for Puerto Rico and
1994-2002 for the USVI, and on
recreational landings for the years
2000-2001.
Overfishing Threshold............. MFMT = FMSY.
Optimum Yield..................... OY = average yield associated with
fishing on a
continuing basis at FOY; where FOY =
0.75FMSY.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Table 4.1.5--Management Reference Points or Proxies Proposed for the
Reef Fish Species not Undergoing Overfishing Under Alternative 2
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reference point
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maximum Sustainable Yield:
Alternative 2(a).............. MSY proxy = Median annual landings
selected by Council in Action 2(a).
Alternative 2(b).............. MSY proxy = Mean annual landings
selected by Council in Action 2(a).
Alternative 2(c).............. MSY proxy = Maximum of a single year
of recreational landings x 3.
Overfishing Threshold:
Alternative 2(d).............. OFL = MSY proxy adjusted according
to the ORCS scalar; overfishing
occurs when annual landings exceed
the OFL.
Alternative 2(e).................. OFL = MSY proxy adjusted according
to the ORCS scalar; overfishing
occurs when annual landings exceed
the OFL, unless NOAA Fisheries'
Southeast Fisheries Science Center
(in consultation with the Caribbean
Fishery Management Council and its
SSC) determines the overage
occurred because data collection/
monitoring improved, rather than
because landings actually
increased.
Alternative 2(f).............. OFL = MSY proxy; overfishing occurs
when annual landings exceed the
OFL.

[[Page 41456]]

Alternative 2(g).............. OFL = MSY proxy; overfishing occurs
when annual landings exceed the
OFL, unless NOAA Fisheries'
Southeast Fisheries Science Center
(in consultation with the Caribbean
Fishery Management Council and its
SSC) determines the overage
occurred because data collection/
monitoring improved, rather than
because landings actually
increased.
Acceptable Biological Catch/ABC
Control Rule:
Alternative 2(h).............. ABC= OFL.
Alternative 2(i).............. ABC= [OFL x 0.85].
Alternative 2(j).............. ABC= [OFL x 0.75].
Alternative 2(k).............. ABC= [OFL x 0.50].
Optimum Yield/Annual Catch Limit:
Alternative 2(l).............. OY = ACL = ABC.
Alternative 2(m).............. OY = ACL = [ABC x (0.85)].
Alternative 2(n).............. OY = ACL = [ABC x (0.75)].
Alternative 2(o).............. OY = ACL = [ABC x (0.50)].
------------------------------------------------------------------------

4.2 Action 2: Management Reference Points for the Caribbean Spiny
Lobster

4.2.1 Action 2(a). Establish a year sequence for determining
average annual landings for the Caribbean Spiny Lobster.
Alternative 1. No action. Retain the year sequence for Caribbean
Spiny Lobster FMP landings as defined in the Caribbean SFA Amendment.
Alternative 2. Redefine management reference points or proxies for
the Caribbean Spiny Lobster FMP based on the longest year sequence of
reliable landings data.

Table 4.2.1--Year Sequences by Island Group Under Alternative 2
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reference point Year sequence
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Puerto Rico.......................................... 1988-2009
St. Croix............................................ 1999-2008
St. Thomas/St. John.................................. 2000-2008
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Alternative 3. Redefine management reference points or proxies for
the Caribbean Spiny Lobster FMP based on the longest year sequence of
pre-Caribbean SFA Amendment landings data that is considered
consistently reliable across all islands.

Table 4.2.2--Year Sequences by Island Group Under Alternative 3
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reference point Year sequence
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Puerto Rico.......................................... 1999-2005
St. Croix............................................ 1999-2005
St. Thomas/St. John.................................. 2000-2005
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Alternative 4. Redefine management reference points or proxies for
the Caribbean Spiny Lobster FMP based on the longest year sequence of
recent reliable landings data.

Table 4.2.3--Year Sequences by Island Group Under Alternative 4
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reference point Year sequence
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Puerto Rico.......................................... 1999-2009
St. Croix............................................ 1999-2008
St. Thomas/St. John.................................. 2000-2008
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Alternative 5. Redefine management reference points or proxies for
the Caribbean Spiny Lobster FMP based on the most recent five years of
available landings data.

[[Page 41457]]

Table 4.2.4--Year Sequences by Island Group Under Alternative 5
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reference point Year sequence
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Puerto Rico.......................................... 2005-2009
St. Croix............................................ 2004-2008
St. Thomas/St. John.................................. 2004-2008
------------------------------------------------------------------------

4.2.2 Action 2(b). Establish management reference points for the
Caribbean Spiny Lobster.
Sub-Action 1. Establish management reference points for the
Caribbean Spiny Lobster in Puerto Rico.
Alternative 1: No action. Retain current management reference
points or proxies for spiny losbter.
Alternative 2(a) through 2(n): Redefine management reference points
or proxies based on the year sequence of landings data as defined in
Action 2(a) Alternatives 1-5.
Sub-Action 2. Establish management reference points for the
Caribbean Spiny Lobster in St. Croix.
Alternative 1: No action. Retain current management reference
points or proxies for spiny lobster.
Alternative 2(a) through 2(n): Redefine management reference points
or proxies based on the year sequence of landings data as defined in
Action 2(a) Alternatives 1-5.
Sub-Action 3. Establish management reference points for the
Caribbean Spiny Lobster in St. Thomas/St. John.
Alternative 1: No action. Retain current management reference
points or proxies for spiny lobster groups.
Alternative 2(a) through 2(n): Redefine management reference points
or proxies based on the year sequence of landings data as defined in
Action 2(a) Alternatives 1-5.

Table 4.2.4--Current MSY Proxy, OY and Overfishing Threshold Definitions
for Spiny Lobster
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reference point Alternative 1--Status quo definition
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maximum Sustainable Yield......... MSY proxy = C/[(FCURR/FMSY) x (BCURR/
BMSY)]; where C is calculated based
on commercial landings for the
years 1997-2001 for Puerto Rico and
1994-2002 for the USVI, and on
recreational landings for the years
2000-2001.
Overfishing Threshold............. MFMT = FMSY.
Optimum Yield..................... OY = average yield associated with
fishing on a
continuing basis at FOY; where FOY =
0.75FMSY.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Table 4.2.5--Management Reference Points or Proxies Proposed for Spiny
Lobster Under Alternative 2
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reference point
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maximum Sustainable Yield:
Alternative 2(a).............. MSY proxy = Median annual landings
selected by Council in Action 2(a).
Alternative 2(b).............. MSY proxy = Mean annual landings
selected by Council in Action 2(a).
Overfishing Threshold:
Alternative 2(c).............. OFL = MSY proxy adjusted according
the ORCS scalar; overfishing occurs
when annual landings exceed the
OFL.
Alternative 2(d).............. OFL = MSY proxy adjusted according
the ORCS scalar; overfishing occurs
when annual landings exceed the
OFL, unless NOAA Fisheries'
Southeast Fisheries Science Center
(in consultation with the Caribbean
Fishery Management Council and its
SSC) determines the overage
occurred because data collection/
monitoring improved, rather than
because landings actually
increased.
Alternative 2(e).............. OFL = MSY proxy; overfishing occurs
when annual landings exceed the
OFL.
Alternative 2(f).............. OFL = MSY proxy; overfishing occurs
when annual landings exceed the
OFL, unless NOAA Fisheries'
Southeast Fisheries Science Center
(in consultation with the Caribbean
Fishery Management Council and its
SSC) determines the overage
occurred because data collection/
monitoring improved, rather than
because landings actually
increased.
Acceptable Biological Catch/ABC
Control Rule:
Alternative 2(g).............. ABC= OFL.
Alternative 2(h).............. ABC= [OFL x 0.85].
Alternative 2(i).............. ABC= [OFL x 0.75].
Alternative 2(j).............. ABC= [OFL x 0.50].
Optimum Yield/Annual Catch Limit:
Alternative 2(k).............. OY = ACL = ABC.
Alternative 2(l).............. OY = ACL = [ABC x (0.85)].
Alternative 2(m).............. OY = ACL = [ABC x (0.75)].
Alternative 2(n).............. OY = ACL = [ABC x (0.50)].
------------------------------------------------------------------------

[[Page 41458]]

4.3 Action 3: Redefine Management of the Aquarium Trade Species Fishery
Management Units (FMUs) Within the Reef Fish FMP and the Coral and Reef
Associated Plants and Invertebrates FMP (Coral FMP)

4.3.1 Action 3(a): Redefine the management of aquarium trade
species FMU.
Alternative 1: No action. Retain aquarium trade species in both the
Corals and Reef Associated Plants and Invertebrates FMP (Coral FMP) and
the Reef Fish FMP as defined in the Caribbean SFA Amendment.
Alternative 2: Consolidate all aquarium trade species listed in the
FMP for Coral FMP and the Reef Fish FMP into a single FMP.
Alternative 2A: Move all aquarium trade species listed in the Coral
FMP into the Reef Fish FMP.
Alternative 2B: Move all of the aquarium trade species listed in
the Reef Fish FMP into the Coral FMP.
Alternative 2C: Move all of the aquarium trade species listed in
both the Coral FMP and the Reef Fish FMPs into a new FMP specific to
aquarium trade species.
Alternative 3: Remove all aquarium trade species from both the
Coral FMP and from the Reef Fish FMPs.
Alternative 4: Manage only those aquarium trade species listed in
either the Coral FMP or the Reef Fish FMP, for which landings data are
available during the year sequence chosen in Action 1(a). Remove
remaining aquarium trade species from the Coral FMP and the Reef Fish
FMP.
Alternative 4A: Aquarium trade species that continue to be
Federally-managed under this alternative will be retained in either the
Coral FMP or the Reef Fish FMP as listed after the Caribbean SFA
Amendment (Table 4.3.1).
Alternative 4B: Aquarium trade species that continue to be
Federally-managed under this alternative will be consolidated and moved
into the Coral FMP.
Alternative 4C: Aquarium trade species that continue to be
Federally-managed under this alternative will be consolidated and moved
into the Reef fish FMP.
Alternative 4D: Aquarium trade species that continue to be
Federally-managed under this alternative will be consolidated and moved
into a new FMP specific to aquarium trade species.
Alternative 5: Delegate management authority for all aquarium trade
species listed in either the Coral FMP or the Reef Fish FMP to the
jurisdiction of the appropriate commonwealth or territory as defined by
Action 5 of this document.
Table 4.3.1. List of all species included in the Aquarium Trade
category in both the Reef Fish and Coral FMPs. Table contents are
extracted from Table 8 of the Comprehensive Amendment to the FMPs of
the U.S. Caribbean to Address Required Provisions of the Magnuson-
Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (Caribbean SFA
Amendment).

Reef Fish FMP

Clepticus parrae, Creole wrasse.
Halichoeres garnoti, Yellowhead wrasse.
Halichoeres cyanocephalus, Yellowcheek wrasse.
Halichoeres maculipinna, Clown wrasse.
Thalassoma bifasciatum, Bluehead wrasse.
Liopropoma rubre, Swissguard basslet.
Gramma loreto, Royal gramma.
Microspathodon chrysurus, Yellowtail damselfish.
Stegastes adustus, Dusky damselfish.
Stegastes partitus, Bicolor damselfish.
Stegastes planifrons, Threespot damselfish.
Stegastes leucostictus, Beaugregory.
Chaetodon capistratus, Foureye butterflyfish.
Chaetodon aculeatus, Longsnout butterflyfish.
Chaetodon ocellatus, Spotfin butterflyfish.
Chaetodon striatus, Banded butterflyfish.
Serranus baldwini, Lantern bass.
Serranus annularis, Orangeback bass.
Serranus tabacarius, Tobaccofish.
Serranus tigrinus, Harlequin bass.
Serranus tortugarum, Chalk bass.
Opistognathus aurifrons, Yellowhead jawfish.
Opistognathus whitehursti, Dusky jawfish.
Xyrichtys novacula, Pearly razorfish.
Xyrichtys splendens, Green razorfish.
Echidna catenata, Chain moray.
Gymnothorax funebris, Green moray.
Gymnothorax miliaris, Goldentail moray.
Elacatinus oceanops, Neon goby.
Priolepis hipoliti, Rusty goby.
Equetus lanceolatus, Jackknife-fish.
Equetus punctatus, Spotted drum.
Chromis cyanea, Blue chromis.
Chromis insolata, Sunshinefish.
Abudefduf saxatilis, Sergeant major.
Astrapogon stellatus, Conchfish.
Apogon maculatua, Flamefish.
Amblycirrhitus pinos, Redspotted hawkfish.
Antennarius spp., Frogfish.
Bothus lunatus, Peacock flounder.
Chaetodipterus faber, Atlantic spadefish.
Canthigaster rostrata, Sharpnose puffer.
Centropyge argi, Cherubfish.
Diodon hystrix, Porcupinefish.
Dactylopterus volitans, Flying gurnard.
Heteropriacanthus cruentatus, Glasseye snapper.
Hypoplectrus unicolor, Butter hamlet.
Holocanthus tricolor, Rock beauty.
Myrichthys ocellatus, Goldspotted eel.
Ophioblennius macclurei, Redlip blenny.
Pareques acuminatus, High-hat.
Rypticus saponaceus, Greater sopafish.
Synodus intermedius, Sand diver.
Symphurus diomedianus, Caribbean tonguefish.
Family Syngnathidae, Pipefishes and Seahorses.
Family Ogcocephalidae, Batfish.
Family Scorpaenidae, Scorpionfish.

Table 4.3.1. (continued). List of all species included in the
Aquarium Trade category in both the Reef Fish and Coral FMPs. Table
contents are extracted from Table 8 of the Comprehensive Amendment to
the FMPs of the U.S. Caribbean to Address Required Provisions of the
Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (Caribbean SFA
Amendment).

Coral FMP

Aphimedon compressa, Erect rope sponge
Astrophyton muricatum, Giant basket star
Alpheaus armatus, Snapping shrimp
Aiptasia tagetes, Pale anemone
Astropecten spp., Sand stars
Analcidometra armata, Swimming crinoid
Bartholomea annulata, Corkscrew anemone
Cynachirella alloclada, sponge (no common name)
Condylactis gigantea, Giant pink-tipped anemone
Cyphoma gibbosum, Flamingo tongue
Chondrilla nucula, Chicken liver sponge
Diadema antillarum, Long-spined urchin
Davidaster spp., Crinoids
Discosoma spp., False coral
Echinometra spp., Purple urchin
Eucidaris tribuloides, Pencil urchin
Gonodactylus (Neogonodactylus) spp., Smashing mantis shrimp
Geodia neptuni, Potato sponge
Haliclona sp., Finger sponge
Holothuria spp., Sea cucumbers
Hereractis lucida, Knobby anemone
Lima spp., Fileclams
Lima scabra, Rough fileclam
Lytechinus spp., Pin cushion urchin
Lysmata spp., Peppermint shrimp
Linckia guildingii, Common comet star
Lysiosquilla spp., Spearing mantis shrimp
Lebrunia spp., Staghorn anemone
Mithrax spp., Clinging crabs

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Mithrax cinctimanus, Banded clinging crab
Mithrax sculptus, Green clinging crab
Myriastra sp., sponge (no common name)
Niphates digitalis, Pink vase sponge
Niphates erecta, Lavender rope sponge
Nemaster spp., Crinoids
Ophiocoma spp., Brittlestars
Ophioderma spp., Brittlestars
Ophioderma rubicundum, Ruby brittlestar
Oreaster reticulatus, Cushion sea star
Ophidiaster guildingii, Comet star
Oliva reticularis, Netted olive
Octopus spp. (except the Common octopus, O. vulgaris)
Paguristes spp., Hermit crabs
Paguristes cadenati, Red reef hermit crab
Percnon gibbesi, Nimble spray crab
Periclimenes spp., Cleaner shrimp
Ricordia florida, Florida false coral
Stichodactyla helianthus, Sun anemone
Spirobranchus giganteus, Christmas tree worm
Sabellastarte magnifica, Magnificent duster
Sabellastarte spp., Tube worms
Stenopus scutellatus, Golden shrimp
Stenopus hispidus, Banded shrimp
Stenorhynchus seticornis, Yellowline arrow crab
Spondylus americanus, Atlantic thorny oyster
Spinosella plicifera, Iridescent tube sponge
Spinosella vaginalis, Lavendar tube sponge
Tripneustes ventricosus, Sea egg urchin
Thor amboinensis, Anemone shrimp
Tectitethya (Tethya) crypta, sponge (no common name)
Subphylum Urochordata, Tunicates
Tridachia crispata, Lettuce sea slug
Zoanthus spp., Sea mat

4.3.2 Action 3(b). Establish management reference points for the
aquarium trade species FMU. Alternative 1: No action. Keep the aquarium
trade species in the ``data collection only'' category as defined in
the Caribbean SFA Amendment.
Alternative 2(a) through 2(k): Establish management reference
points or proxies for the aquarium trade species based on alternative
selected in Action 3(a) and time series of landings data as defined in
Action 1(a) in Alternatives 1-5.

Table 4.3.2--Management Reference Points or Proxies Proposed for the
Aquarium Trade Species Under Alternative 2
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reference Point
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maximum Sustainable Yield:
Alternative 2(a).............. MSY proxy = Median annual landings
selected by Council in Action 2(a).
Alternative 2(b).............. MSY proxy = Mean annual landings
selected by Council in Action 2(a).
Overfishing Threshold:
Alternative 2(c).............. OFL = MSY proxy; overfishing occurs
when annual landings exceed the
OFL.
Alternative 2(d).............. OFL = MSY proxy; overfishing occurs
when annual landings exceed the
OFL, unless NOAA Fisheries'
Southeast Fisheries Science Center
(in consultation with the Caribbean
Fishery Management Council and its
SSC) determines the overage
occurred because data collection/
monitoring improved, rather than
because landings actually
increased.
Acceptable Biological Catch/ABC
Control Rule:
Alternative 2(e).............. ABC = OFL.
Alternative 2(f).............. ABC = [OFL x 0.85].
Alternative 2(g).............. ABC = [OFL x 0.75].
Alternative 2(h).............. ABC = [OFL x 0.50].
Optimum Yield/Annual Catch Limit:
Alternative 2(i).............. OY = ACL = ABC.
Alternative 2(j).............. OY = ACL = [ABC x (0.85)].
Alternative 2(k).............. OY = ACL = [ABC x (0.75)].
Alternative 2(l).............. OY = ACL = [ABC x (0.50)].
------------------------------------------------------------------------

4.4 Action 4: Redefine the Management of Conch Species FMU Within the
Queen Conch FMP

Alternative 1: No action. Do not re-evaluate and revise the conch
species FMU.
Alternative 2: Remove all conch species, except for the queen conch
(Strombus gigas), from the Queen Conch FMP.
Alternative 3: Delegate management authority, for all conch species
except queen conch (Strombus gigas), listed in the Queen Conch FMP, to
the jurisdiction of the appropriate commonwealth or territory as
defined by Action 5.
Alternative 4: Retain all conch species under the Queen Conch FMP
and define management reference points or proxies based on the ACL
established for queen conch in the 2010 Caribbean ACL Amendment public
hearing draft.

Table 4.4.1--List of Conch Species Within the Queen Conch FMP Not
Undergoing Overfishing as Established in the Caribbean SFA Amendment
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Scientific names Common names
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Strombus gigas............................ Queen conch.
Strombus costatus......................... Milk conch.
Strombus pugilis.......................... West Indian Fighting Conch.
Strombus gallus........................... Roostertail Conch.
Strombus raninus.......................... Hawkwing Conch.
Fasciolaria tulipa........................ True Tulip.
Charonia variegata........................ Atlantic Triton's Trumpet.
Cassis madagascarensis.................... Cameo Helmet.
Astrea tuber.............................. Green Start Shell.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

4.5 Action 5. Geographic Allocation/Management

Alternative 1. No Action. Maintain U.S. Caribbean-wide reference
points.
Alternative 2. Divide and manage ACLs by island group (i.e., Puerto
Rico, St. Thomas/St. John, St. Croix) based on the preferred management
reference point time series selected by the Council in Actions 1(a) and
2(a).
Alternative 2A. Use a mid-point or equidistant method for dividing
the EEZ among islands.
Alternative 2B. Use a straight-line approach for dividing the EEZ
among islands.
Alternative 2C. Use the St. Thomas Fishermen's Association
recommendation for dividing the EEZ among islands.

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4.6 Action 6: Annual Catch Limit Allocation and Management

4.6.1 Action 6(a) Separation of recreational and commercial sectors
(Puerto Rico only).
Alternative 1. No action. Do not specify sector-specific ACLs.
Alternative 2. Specify separate commercial and recreational ACLs
based on the preferred management reference point time series.
4.6.2 Action 6(b) Establish bag limit restrictions on recreational
reef fish harvest.
Alternative 1. No action. Do not establish bag limit restrictions
on recreational reef fish harvest.
Alternative 2. Establish a 5-fish aggregate bag limit per person
per fishing day (would not apply to a fisher who has a valid commercial
fishing license)
Alternative 3. Establish a 2-fish aggregate bag limit per person
per fishing day (would not apply to a fisher who has a valid commercial
fishing license)
Alternative 4. Prohibits the harvest of species in the surgeonfish
FMU (would not apply to a fisher who has a valid commercial fishing
license).
Alternative 5. Establish an aggregate bag limit of 10 fish per
fisher including not more than two surgeonfish per fisher or six
surgeonfish per boat, and 30 aggregate fish per boat on a fishing day
(would not apply to a fishers who has a valid commercial fishing
license).
Alternative 6. Establish an aggregate bag limit of 5 fish per
fisher including not more than two surgeonfish per fisher or six
surgeonfish per boat, and 15 aggregate fish per boat on a fishing day
(would not apply to a fisher who has a valid commercial fishing
license).
4.6.3 Action 6(c) Establish bag limit restrictions on recreational
spiny lobster harvest.
Alternative 1. No action. Do not establish bag limit restrictions
on recreational lobster harvest.
Alternative 2. Establish a 5-spiny lobster aggregate bag limit per
person per fishing day (would not apply to a fisher who has a valid
commercial fishing license).
Alternative 3. Establish a 2-spiny lobster bag limit per person per
fishing day (would not apply to a fisher who has a valid commercial
fishing license).
Alternative 4. Prohibits the harvest of spiny lobster (would not
apply to a fishers who has a valid commercial fishing license).
Alternative 5. Establish a bag limit of: 5 spiny lobster per fisher
and 15 spiny lobster per boat on a fishing day (would not apply to a
fisher who has a valid commercial fishing license).
Alternative 6. Establish a bag limit of: 2 spiny lobster per fisher
and 12 spiny lobster per boat on a fishing day (would not apply to a
fisher who has a valid commercial fishing license).

4.7 Action 7: Accountability Measures for Species Considered in This
Amendment

Accountability measures (AMs) are defined as management controls to
prevent ACLs, including sector-specific ACLs, from being exceeded, and
to correct or mitigate overages of the ACL if they occur (50 CFR
310(g)(1)).
4.7.1 Action 7(a) Triggering accountability measures. Actions 1, 2,
3, and 4 include alternatives to establish and allocate ACLs. If an ACL
is exceeded, AM alternatives are provided to address overages. Action 7
alternatives are presented in two parts, the first addresses the
triggering of AMs and the second addresses the actual actions needed to
redress overages.
Alternative 1. No Action. Do not establish criteria for triggering
AMs.
Alternative 2. Trigger AMs if the ACL is exceeded based upon:
Alternative 2A: A single year of landings beginning with landings
from 2011.
Alternative 2B: A single year of landings beginning with landings
from 2011, then a 2-year running average of landings in 2012 (average
of 2011+2012) and thereafter (i.e., 2011, 2011-2012, 2012-2013, etc.).
Alternative 2C: A single year of landings beginning with landings
from 2011, a 2-year average of landings in 2012 (average of 2011+2012),
then a 3-year running average of landings in 2013 (average of
2011+2012+2013) and thereafter (i.e., 2011, 2011-2012, 2011-2013, 2012-
2014, etc.).
Alternative 3. Trigger AMs if the ACL is exceeded as defined below
unless NOAA Fisheries' SEFSC (in consultation with the Council and its
SSC) determines the overage occurred because data collection/monitoring
improved rather than because catches actually increased:
Alternative 3A: A single year of landings effective beginning 2011.
Alternative 3B: A single year of landings effective beginning 2011,
then a 2-year running average of landings effective 2012 and thereafter
(i.e., 2011, 2011-2012, 2012-2013, etc.).
Alternative 3C: A single year of landings effective beginning 2011,
a 2-year running average of landings effective 2012, then a 3-year
running average of landings effective 2013 and thereafter (i.e., 2011,
2011-2012, 2011-2013, 2012-2014, etc.).
4.7.2 Action 7(b) Applying accountability measures.
Alternative 1. No Action. Do not apply AMs.
Alternative 2. If AMs are triggered, based upon the preferred
criteria chosen in Action 7(a), reduce the length of the fishing season
for that species or species group the year following the trigger
determination by the amount needed to prevent such an overage from
occurring again. The needed changes will remain in effect until
modified.
Alternative 3. If AMs are triggered based upon the preferred
criteria chosen in action 7(a), reduce the length of the fishing season
for that species or species group the year following the trigger
determination by the amount needed to prevent such an overage from
occurring again and to pay back the overage. The needed changes will
remain in effect until modified.

4.8 Action 8: Framework Measures

4.8.1 Action 8(a): Establish Framework Measures for Spiny Lobster
FMP.
Alternative 1: No Action. Do not establish framework measures for
the Spiny Lobster FMP.
Alternative 2: Amend the framework procedures for the Spiny Lobster
FMP to provide a mechanism to expeditiously adjust the following
reference points and management measures through framework action:

a. Quota Requirements.
b. Seasonal Closures.
c. Area Closures.
d. Fishing Year.
e. Trip/Bag Limit.
f. Size Limits.
g. Gear Restrictions or Prohibitions.
h. Fishery Management Units (FMUs).
i. Total Allowable Catch (TAC).
j. Annual Catch Limits (ACLs).
k. Accountability Measures (AMs).
l. Annual Catch Targets (ACTs).
m. Maximum Sustainable Yield (MSY).
n. Optimum Yield (OY).
o. Minimum Stock Size Threshold (MSST).
p. Maximum Fishing Mortality Threshold (MFMT).
q. Overfishing Limit (OFL).
r. Acceptable Biological Catch (ABC) Control Rules.
s. Actions To Minimize the Interaction of Fishing Gear With Endangered
Species or Marine Mammals.

Alternative 3: Amend the framework procedures for the Spiny Lobster
FMP to provide the Council with a mechanism to expeditiously adjust a
subset of management measures outlined in Alternative 2.
4.8.2 Action 8 (b): Establish Framework Measures for Corals and

[[Page 41463]]

Reef Associated Plants and Invertebrates FMP.
Alternative 1: No Action. Do not amend the current framework
measures for the Corals FMP.
Alternative 2: Amend the framework procedures for the Coral FMP to
provide a mechanism to expeditiously adjust the following reference
points and management measures through framework action:

a. Quota Requirements.
b. Seasonal Closures.
c. Area Closures.
d. Fishing Year.
e. Trip/Bag Limit.
f. Size Limits.
g. Gear Restrictions or Prohibitions.
h. Fishery Management Units (FMUs).
i. Total Allowable Catch (TAC).
j. Annual Catch Limits (ACLs).
k. Accountability Measures (AMs).
l. Annual Catch Targets (ACTs).
m. Maximum Sustainable Yield (MSY).
n. Optimum Yield (OY).
o. Minimum Stock Size Threshold (MSST).
p. Maximum Fishing Mortality Threshold (MFMT).
q. Overfishing Limit (OFL).
r. Acceptable Biological Catch (ABC) control rules.
s. Actions To Minimize the Interaction of Fishing Gear With Endangered
Species or Marine Mammals.

Alternative 3: Amend the framework procedures for the Coral FMP to
provide the Council with a mechanism to expeditiously adjust a subset
of management measures outlined in Alternative 2.
Written comments can be sent to the Council not later than August
15, 2011, or submitted at the Council meeting that will take place at
La Concha hotel, in San Juan, Puerto Rico on August 30-31, 2011.

Special Accommodations

These meetings are physically accessible to people with
disabilities. For more information or request for sign language
interpretation and other auxiliary aids, please contact Mr. Miguel A.
Rol[oacute]n, Executive Director, Caribbean Fishery Management Council,
268 Mu[ntilde]oz Rivera Avenue, Suite 1108, San Juan, Puerto Rico
00918-1920, telephone (787) 766-5926, at least five days prior to the
meeting date.

Dated: July 8, 2011.
Tracey L. Thompson,
Acting Director, Office of Sustainable Fisheries, National Marine
Fisheries Service.
[FR Doc. 2011-17674 Filed 7-13-11; 8:45 am]
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