Spring 2014 Semiannual Agenda of Regulations, 34015-34038 [2014-13114]

Download as PDF Vol. 79 Friday, No. 114 June 13, 2014 Part IV Department of Commerce mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS4 Semiannual Regulatory Agenda VerDate Mar<15>2010 18:28 Jun 12, 2014 Jkt 232001 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 4717 Sfmt 4717 E:\FR\FM\13JNP4.SGM 13JNP4 34016 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 114 / Friday, June 13, 2014 / Unified Agenda Office of the Secretary 13 CFR Ch. III 15 CFR Subtitle A; Subtitle B, Chs. I, II, III, VII, VIII, IX, and XI 19 CFR Ch. III 37 CFR Chs. I, IV, and V 48 CFR Ch. 13 50 CFR Chs. II, III, IV, and VI Spring 2014 Semiannual Agenda of Regulations Office of the Secretary, Commerce. ACTION: Semiannual regulatory agenda. AGENCY: In compliance with Executive Order 12866, entitled ‘‘Regulatory Planning and Review,’’ and the Regulatory Flexibility Act, as amended, the Department of Commerce (Commerce), in the spring and fall of each year, publishes in the Federal Register an agenda of regulations under development or review over the next 12 months. Rulemaking actions are grouped according to prerulemaking, proposed rules, final rules, long-term actions, and rulemaking actions completed since the fall 2013 agenda. The purpose of the Agenda is to provide information to the public on regulations that are currently under review, being proposed, or issued by Commerce. The agenda is intended to facilitate comments and views by interested members of the public. Commerce’s spring 2014 regulatory agenda includes regulatory activities that are expected to be conducted during the period April 1, 2014 through March 31, 2015. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Specific: For additional information about specific regulatory actions listed in the agenda, contact the individual identified as the contact person. General: Comments or inquiries of a general nature about the agenda should be directed to Asha Mathew, Chief Counsel for Regulation, Office of the Assistant General Counsel for Legislation and Regulation, U.S. Department of Commerce, Washington, DC 20230, telephone: 202–482–3151. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS4 SUMMARY: VerDate Mar<15>2010 18:28 Jun 12, 2014 Jkt 232001 Commerce hereby publishes its spring 2014 Unified Agenda of Federal Regulatory and Deregulatory Actions pursuant to Executive Order 12866 and the Regulatory Flexibility Act, 5 U.S.C. 601 et seq. Executive Order 12866 requires agencies to publish an agenda of those regulations that are under consideration pursuant to this order. By memorandum of February 4, 2014, the Office of Management and Budget issued guidelines and procedures for the preparation and publication of the spring 2014 Unified Agenda. The Regulatory Flexibility Act requires agencies to publish, in the spring and fall of each year, a regulatory flexibility agenda that contains a brief description of the subject of any rule likely to have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities, and a list that identifies those entries that have been selected for periodic review under section 610 of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. In addition, beginning with the fall 2007 edition, the Internet became the basic means for disseminating the Unified Agenda. The complete Unified Agenda is available online at www.reginfo.gov, in a format that offers users a greatly enhanced ability to obtain information from the Agenda database. Because publication in the Federal Register is mandated for the regulatory flexibility agendas required by the Regulatory Flexibility Act, Commerce’s printed agenda entries include only: (1) Rules that are in the Agency’s regulatory flexibility agenda, in accordance with the Regulatory Flexibility Act, because they are likely to have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities; and (2) Rules that the Agency has identified for periodic review under section 610 of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. Printing of these entries is limited to fields that contain information required by the Regulatory Flexibility Act’s Agenda requirements. Additional information on these entries is available in the Unified Agenda published on the Internet. Within Commerce, the Office of the Secretary and various operating units may issue regulations. These operating units, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 the Bureau of Industry and Security, and the Patent and Trademark Office, issue the greatest share of Commerce’s regulations. A large number of regulatory actions reported in the Agenda deal with fishery management programs of NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS). To avoid repetition of programs and definitions, as well as to provide some understanding of the technical and institutional elements of NMFS’ programs, an ‘‘Explanation of Information Contained in NMFS Regulatory Entries’’ is provided below. Explanation of Information Contained in NMFS Regulatory Entries The Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.) (the Act) governs the management of fisheries within the Exclusive Economic Zone of the United States (EEZ). The EEZ refers to those waters from the outer edge of the State boundaries, generally 3 nautical miles, to a distance of 200 nautical miles. Fishery Management Plans (FMPs) are to be prepared for fisheries that require conservation and management measures. Regulations implementing these FMPs regulate domestic fishing and foreign fishing where permitted. Foreign fishing may be conducted in a fishery in which there is no FMP only if a preliminary fishery management plan has been issued to govern that foreign fishing. Under the Act, eight Regional Fishery Management Councils (Councils) prepare FMPs or amendments to FMPs for fisheries within their respective areas. In the development of such plans or amendments and their implementing regulations, the Councils are required by law to conduct public hearings on the draft plans and to consider the use of alternative means of regulating. The Council process for developing FMPs and amendments makes it difficult for NMFS to determine the significance and timing of some regulatory actions under consideration by the Councils at the time the semiannual regulatory agenda is published. Commerce’s spring 2014 regulatory agenda follows. Justin Antonipillai, Acting General Counsel. E:\FR\FM\13JNP4.SGM 13JNP4 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 114 / Friday, June 13, 2014 / Unified Agenda 34017 INTERNATIONAL TRADE ADMINISTRATION—COMPLETED ACTIONS Regulation Identifier No. Sequence No. Title 27 ...................... Modification of Regulation Regarding the Extension of Time Limits ............................................................... 0625–AA94 NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION—PROPOSED RULE STAGE Regulation Identifier No. Sequence No. Title 28 ...................... 29 ...................... Fishery Management Plan for Regulating Offshore Marine Aquaculture in the Gulf of Mexico ..................... Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Reauthorization Act (MSRA) Environmental Review Procedure. Addendum IV to the Weakfish Interstate Management Plan—Bycatch Trip Limit .......................................... Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Future of the Atlantic Shark Fishery ......................................................... Amendment 6 to the Monkfish Fishery Management Plan ............................................................................. Amendment 22 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Snapper Grouper Fishery of the South Atlantic Region. Implement the 2010 Shark Conservation Act Provisions and Other Regulations in the Atlantic Smoothhound Shark Fishery. Amendment 43 to the FMP for BSAI King and Tanner Crabs and Amendment 103 to the FMP for Groundfish of the BSAI. Amendment 3 to the Spiny Dogfish Fishery Management Plan ..................................................................... Pacific Coast Groundfish Trawl Rationalization Program Trailing Action: Rule to Modify Chafing Gear Regulations for Midwater Trawl Gear Used in the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery. Inner Limit of the Exclusive Economic Zone Under the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act. Fisheries Off West Coast States; West Coast Salmon Fisheries; Amendment 18; Essential Fish Habitat Descriptions for Pacific Salmon. Vessel Monitoring Systems; Specification of Requirements for Mobile Transmitting Unit Type Approval ..... Regulatory Amendment 14 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Snapper-Grouper Fishery of the South Atlantic Region. Amendment 5 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Dolphin Wahoo Fishery of the Atlantic ................... Amendment 5b to the Highly Migratory Species Fishery Management Plan ................................................. Amendment 105 Bering Sea Flatfish Harvest Specifications Flexibility .......................................................... Amendment 39 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish Resources of the Gulf of Mexico ......... International Fisheries; Western and Central Pacific Fisheries for Highly Migratory Species; Fishing Restrictions Regarding the Oceanic Whitetip Shark and the Whale Shark. Southern New England Effort Controls to Address Lobster Stock Rebuilding Measures .............................. Amendment 97 to the Fishery Management Plan for Groundfish of the Gulf of Alaska to Establish Chinook Salmon Prohibited Species Catch Limits for the Non-Pollock Trawl Fisheries. Implementation of the Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission Resolution for the Conservation of Whale Sharks and the Collection and Analyses of Data on Fish Aggregating Devices. Framework Adjustment 8 to the Monkfish Fishery Management Plan ........................................................... South Atlantic Coastal Migratory Pelagics Framework Action 2013 (Section 610 Review) .......................... Implementation of a Program for Transshipments by Large Scale Fishing Vessels in the Eastern Pacific Ocean. Amendment 45 to the Fishery Management Plan for Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands King and Tanner Crab Freezer Longline Catcher/Processor Pacific Cod Sideboard Removal. Information Collection Program for Atlantic Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Fisheries ..................................... Red Snapper Allocation—Amendment 28 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish Resources of the Gulf of Mexico (Section 610 Review). Amendment 96 to the Fishery Management Plan for Groundfish of the Gulf of Alaska to Revise the Community Quota Entity Program. Amendment 7 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Dolphin Wahoo Fishery of the Atlantic ................... Regulatory Amendment 16 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Snapper-Grouper Fishery of the South Atlantic Region. Amendment 8 to the Fishery Management Plan for Coral, Coral Reefs, and Live/Hardbottom Habitats of the South Atlantic Region. Amendment 20A to the Fishery Management Plan for the Coastal Migratory Pelagic Resources of the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Region. Amendment 100 to the FMP for Groundfish of the BSAI Management Area and Amendment 91 to the FMP for Groundfish of the Gulf of Alaska to add Grenadiers to the Ecosystem Component Category. Framework Adjustment 2 to the Northeast Skate Complex Fishery Management Plan ................................ Marine Mammal Protection Act Permit Regulation Revisions ......................................................................... Designation of Critical Habitat for the North Atlantic Right Whale .................................................................. Amendment and Updates to the Bottlenose Dolphin Take Reduction Plan ................................................... Revisions to Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary Regulations ........................... 30 31 32 33 ...................... ...................... ...................... ...................... 34 ...................... 35 ...................... 36 ...................... 37 ...................... 38 ...................... 39 ...................... 40 ...................... 41 ...................... 42 43 44 45 46 ...................... ...................... ...................... ...................... ...................... 47 ...................... 48 ...................... 49 ...................... 50 ...................... 51 ...................... 52 ...................... 53 ...................... 54 ...................... 55 ...................... 56 ...................... 57 ...................... 58 ...................... mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS4 59 ...................... 60 ...................... 61 ...................... 62 63 64 65 66 ...................... ...................... ...................... ...................... ...................... VerDate Mar<15>2010 18:28 Jun 12, 2014 Jkt 232001 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\13JNP4.SGM 13JNP4 0648–AS65 0648–AV53 0648–AY41 0648–BA17 0648–BA50 0648–BA53 0648–BB02 0648–BC34 0648–BC77 0648–BC84 0648–BC92 0648–BC95 0648–BD02 0648–BD07 0648–BD08 0648–BD22 0648–BD23 0648–BD25 0648–BD44 0648–BD45 0648–BD48 0648–BD53 0648–BD56 0648–BD58 0648–BD59 0648–BD61 0648–BD64 0648–BD68 0648–BD74 0648–BD76 0648–BD78 0648–BD81 0648–BD83 0648–BD98 0648–BD99 0648–AV82 0648–AY54 0648–BB37 0648–BD97 34018 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 114 / Friday, June 13, 2014 / Unified Agenda NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION—FINAL RULE STAGE Regulation Identifier No. Sequence No. Title 67 ...................... American Lobster Fishery; Fishing Effort Control Measures to Complement Interstate Lobster Management Recommendations by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission. Amendment 7 to the 2006 Consolidated Highly Migratory Species Fishery Management Plan .................... Generic Amendment to Several Fishery Management Plans in the Gulf of Mexico and South Atlantic Regions to Modify Federally-Permitted Seafood Dealer Reporting Requirements. Georges Bank Yellowtail Flounder Emergency Action to Provide a Partial Exemption from Accountability Measures to the Atlantic Scallop Fishery. Modification to the Hired Skipper Regulations for Management of the Individual Fishing Quota Program for the Fixed-Gear Commercial Fisheries for Pacific Halibut and Sablefish in Waters of Alaska. Allowing Northeast Multispecies Sector Vessels Access to Year Round Closed Areas ................................ Pacific Coast Groundfish Trawl Rationalization Program Trailing Actions: Permitting Requirements for Observer and Catch Monitor Providers. Pacific Coast Groundfish Trawl Rationalization Program; Second Program Improvement and Enhancement Rule. Modifications to the Pacific Coast Groundfish Trawl Rockfish Conservation Area Boundaries ..................... Framework Adjustment 8 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid and Butterfish Fishery Management Plan ........... Implementation of the Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission Resolution to Establish a Vessel Monitoring System Program in the Eastern Pacific Ocean. Implementation of the Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission Resolution to Adopt Conservation and Management Measures for Pacific Bluefin Tuna in the Eastern Pacific Ocean. 2014 Specifications and Management Measures for the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fisheries Modifications to Identification Markings on Fishing Gear Marker Buoys ........................................................ Pacific Halibut Fisheries; Catch Sharing Plan ................................................................................................. Temporary Rule Through Emergency Action to Revise Annual Catch Limits and Accountability Measures for Blueline Tilefish and the Deep-Water Complex in the South Atlantic Region. Revision of Hawaiian Monk Seal Critical Habitat ............................................................................................ Endangered and Threatened Species: Designation of Critical Habitat for Threatened Lower Columbia River Coho Salmon and Puget Sound Steelhead. Designation of Critical Habitat for the Distinct Population Segments of Yelloweye Rockfish, Canary Rockfish, and Bocaccio. Amending the Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Plan ............................................................................. Designation of Critical Habitat for the Northwest Atlantic Ocean Loggerhead Sea Turtle DPS and the Determination Regarding Critical Habitat for the North Pacific Ocean Loggerhead DPS. 68 ...................... 69 ...................... 70 ...................... 71 ...................... 72 ...................... 73 ...................... 74 ...................... 75 ...................... 76 ...................... 77 ...................... 78 ...................... 79 80 81 82 ...................... ...................... ...................... ...................... 83 ...................... 84 ...................... 85 ...................... 86 ...................... 87 ...................... 0648–AT31 0648–BC09 0648–BC12 0648–BC33 0648–BC62 0648–BD09 0648–BD30 0648–BD31 0648–BD37 0648–BD50 0648–BD54 0648–BD55 0648–BD65 0648–BD66 0648–BD82 0648–BD87 0648–BA81 0648–BB30 0648–BC76 0648–BC90 0648–BD27 NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION—LONG-TERM ACTIONS Sequence No. 88 89 90 91 ...................... ...................... ...................... ...................... Regulation Identifier No. Title Comprehensive Fishery Management Plan for Puerto Rico ........................................................................... Comprehensive Fishery Management Plan for St. Croix ................................................................................ Comprehensive Fishery Management Plan for St. Thomas/St. John ............................................................. Designate Critical Habitat for the Hawaiian Insular False Killer Whale Distinct Population Segment ........... 0648–BD32 0648–BD33 0648–BD34 0648–BC45 NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION—COMPLETED ACTIONS Sequence No. 92 93 94 95 ...................... ...................... ...................... ...................... 96 ...................... mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS4 97 ...................... 98 ...................... 99 ...................... 100 .................... 101 .................... 102 .................... 103 .................... VerDate Mar<15>2010 Regulation Identifier No. Title Marine Mammal Protection Act Stranding Regulation Revisions .................................................................... Amendment 14 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fishery Management Plan .......................... Amendment 5 to the Atlantic Herring Fishery Management Plan ................................................................... Regulatory Amendment to Implement a Halibut Catch Sharing Plan for International Pacific Halibut Commission Area 2C and Area 3A. Fisheries off West Coast States; Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery; Trawl Rationalization Program; Cost Recovery Program. Amendment 89 to the Gulf of Alaska Groundfish Fishery Management Plan Area Closures for Tanner Crab Protection in Gulf of Alaska Groundfish Fisheries. Amendment to the Vessel Ownership Requirements of the Individual Fishing Quota Program for FixedGear Pacific Halibut and Sablefish Fisheries in and off of Alaska. Amendment 95 to the Fishery Management Plan for Groundfish of the Gulf of Alaska ................................ 2013 Monkfish Emergency Action ................................................................................................................... Framework Adjustment 50 to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan ................................... Amendment 102 to the FMP for Groundfish of the BSAI to Establish a Community Quota Entity Program in the Aleutian Islands and a Regulatory Amendment to Allow IFQ Derived From Category D Quota Share. Amendment 2 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Queen Conch Resources of Puerto Rico and the USVI: Compatibility of Trip and Bag Limits in the Management Area of St. Croix, USVI. 18:28 Jun 12, 2014 Jkt 232001 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\13JNP4.SGM 13JNP4 0648–AW22 0648–AY26 0648–AY47 0648–BA37 0648–BB17 0648–BB76 0648–BB78 0648–BC39 0648–BC79 0648–BC97 0648–BD03 0648–BD15 34019 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 114 / Friday, June 13, 2014 / Unified Agenda NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION—COMPLETED ACTIONS—Continued Regulation Identifier No. Sequence No. Title 104 .................... Framework Adjustment 2 to the Atlantic Herring Fishery Management Plan and Management Measures for Atlantic Herring for the 2013–2015 Fishing Years. Joint For-Hire Generic Reporting Amendment for the South Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico ............................. Modification of Vessel Monitoring System Requirements for Atlantic Highly Migratory Species Fisheries .... Abbreviated Framework Action to Establish Funding Responsibilities for the Electronic Logbook Program in the Shrimp Fishery of the Gulf of Mexico. Eliminate the Expiration Date Contained in the Final Rule to Reduce the Threat of Ship Collisions With North Atlantic Right Whales. 105 .................... 106 .................... 107 .................... 108 .................... DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC) Completed Actions International Trade Administration (ITA) 27. Modification of Regulation Regarding the Extension of Time Limits Legal Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301; 19 U.S.C. 1202 note; 19 U.S.C. 1303 note; 19 U.S.C. et seq.; 19 U.S.C. 3538 Abstract: A rule to modify 19 CFR 351.302, which concerns the extension of time limits for submissions in antidumping and countervailing duty proceedings. Timetable: Action Date FR Cite Proposed Rule .... Comment Period End. Final Action ......... 01/16/13 03/18/13 78 FR 3367 09/20/13 78 FR 57790 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Charles Vannatta, Policy Analyst, Department of Commerce, International Trade Administration, 1401 Constitution Ave. NW., Washington, DC 20230, Phone: 202 482–4036, Email: charles.vannatta@ trade.gov. RIN: 0625–AA94 DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC) Proposed Rule Stage National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS4 National Marine Fisheries Service 28. Fishery Management Plan for Regulating Offshore Marine Aquaculture in the Gulf of Mexico Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: The purpose of this fishery management plan is to develop a regional permitting process for regulating and promoting environmentally sound and economically sustainable aquaculture in the Gulf of Mexico exclusive economic VerDate Mar<15>2010 18:28 Jun 12, 2014 Jkt 232001 zone. This fishery management plan consists of ten actions, each with an associated range of management alternatives, which would facilitate the permitting of an estimated 5 to 20 offshore aquaculture operations in the Gulf of Mexico over the next 10 years, with an estimated annual production of up to 64 million pounds. By establishing a regional permitting process for aquaculture, the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council will be positioned to achieve their primary goal of increasing maximum sustainable yield and optimum yield of federal fisheries in the Gulf of Mexico by supplementing harvest of wild caught species with cultured product. This rulemaking would outline a regulatory permitting process for aquaculture in the Gulf of Mexico, including: (1) Required permits; (2) duration of permits; (3) species allowed; (4) designation of sites for aquaculture; (5) reporting requirements; and (6) regulations to aid in enforcement. Timetable: Action Date FR Cite Notice of Availability. NOA Comment Period End. NPRM .................. 06/04/09 74 FR 26829 08/03/09 06/00/14 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 727 824–5305, Fax: 727 824–5308, Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–AS65 29. Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Reauthorization Act (MSRA) Environmental Review Procedure Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: This rule revises and updates the National Marine Fisheries PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 0648–BD17 0648–BD21 0648–BD24 0648–BD41 0648–BB20 Service procedures for complying with National Environmental Protection Act in the context of fishery management actions developed pursuant to MSRA. Timetable: Action Date FR Cite NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. Withdrawal of Proposed Rule. 05/14/08 06/13/08 73 FR 27998 06/00/14 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Steve Leathery, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 713–2239, Email: steve.leathery@noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–AV53 30. Addendum IV to the Weakfish Interstate Management Plan—Bycatch Trip Limit Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 5101 Abstract: This action would modify management restrictions in the Federal weakfish fishery in a manner consistent with the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission Interstate Plan. The proposed change would decrease the incidental catch allowance for weakfish in the exclusive economic zone in non-directed fisheries using smaller mesh sizes, from 150 pounds to no more than 100 pounds per day or trip, whichever is longer in duration. In addition, it would impose a one fish possession limit on recreational fishers. Timetable: Action Date FR Cite NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. NPRM Comment Period Reopened. Comment Period End. 05/12/10 06/11/10 75 FR 26703 06/16/10 75 FR 34092 E:\FR\FM\13JNP4.SGM 13JNP4 06/30/10 34020 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 114 / Friday, June 13, 2014 / Unified Agenda Action Date Next Stage Undetermined. FR Cite 08/00/14 Fishery Conservation and Management Act. Timetable: Action Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Room 13362, 1315 EastWest Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 713–2334, Fax: 301 713–0596, Email: alan.risenhoover@ noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–AY41 31. Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Future of the Atlantic Shark Fishery Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 971 et seq. Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service is considering adjusting the regulations governing the U.S. Atlantic shark fishery to address current fishery issues and to identify specific shark fishery goals for the future. This action will discuss potential changes to the quota and/or permit structure that are currently in place for the Atlantic shark fishery, and various catch share programs such as limited access privilege programs, individual fishing quotas, and sectors for the Atlantic shark fishery. Timetable: Action Date FR Cite ANPRM ............... ANPRM Comment Period End. NPRM .................. 09/20/10 01/14/11 75 FR 57235 09/00/14 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Room 13362, 1315 EastWest Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 713–2334, Fax: 301 713–0596, Email: alan.risenhoover@ noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BA17 mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS4 32. Amendment 6 to the Monkfish Fishery Management Plan Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: The purpose of Amendment 6 to the Monkfish Fishery Management Plan is to consider developing a catch share management program for this fishery. This would very likely also involve the development of a referendum for such a program as required under the Magnuson-Stevens VerDate Mar<15>2010 18:28 Jun 12, 2014 Jkt 232001 Date FR Cite Notice of Intent to Prepare an EIS. Next Stage Undetermined. 11/30/10 75 FR 74005 03/00/15 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 978 281–9287, Email: john.bullard@ noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BA50 33. Amendment 22 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Snapper Grouper Fishery of the South Atlantic Region Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: The red snapper stock in the South Atlantic was assessed through the Southeast, Data, Assessment, and Review process in 2008 and 2010. The assessments indicate that the stock is experiencing overfishing and is overfished. As a result of the 2008 assessment, fishing for red snapper has been prohibited in Federal waters off the south Atlantic states since January 4, 2010. In Amendment 22, the National Marine Fisheries Service and the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council are considering alternatives to change the current harvest restrictions on red snapper as the stock increases in biomass. Examples of measures under consideration include the implementation of red snapper trip limits, bag limits, a catch share program, tag program, temporal and spatial closures including those to protect spawning stocks, and gear prohibitions. Timetable: Action Date Notice of Intent .... Notice of Intent Comment Period End. NPRM .................. 01/03/11 02/14/11 FR Cite 76 FR 101 03/00/15 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 727 824–5305, Fax: 727 824–5308, Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov. PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 RIN: 0648–BA53 34. Implement the 2010 Shark Conservation Act Provisions and Other Regulations in the Atlantic Smoothhound Shark Fishery Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: This rule considers implementing the provisions of the 2010 Shark Conservation Act and other regulations in the Atlantic Smoothhound Fishery (which includes smooth dogfish and the Florida smoothhound). Specifically, this action would: (1) Modify regulations for smooth dogfish as needed to be consistent with the Shark Conservation Act; (2) consider other management measures, as needed, including the terms and conditions of the Endangered Species Act Smoothhound Biological Opinion; and (3) consider revising the current smoothhound shark quota based on updated catch data. Timetable: Action Date NPRM .................. FR Cite 06/00/14 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Room 13362, 1315 EastWest Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 713–2334, Fax: 301 713–0596, Email: alan.risenhoover@ noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BB02 35. Amendment 43 to the FMP for BSAI King and Tanner Crabs and Amendment 103 to the FMP for Groundfish of the BSAI Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 Abstract: This rule would implement both Amendment 43 to the Fishery Management Plan for Bering Sea/ Aleutian Islands King and Tanner Crabs and Amendment 103 to the Fishery Management Plan for Groundfish of the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands Management Area. Amendment 43 revises the current rebuilding plan for Pribilof Islands blue king crab (blue king crab) and Amendment 103 implements groundfish fishing restrictions. A notrawl Pribilof Islands Habitat Conservation Zone (Zone) was established in 1995 and the directed fishery for blue king crab has been closed since 1999. A rebuilding plan was implemented in 2003; however, blue king crab remains overfished and the current rebuilding plan has not achieved adequate progress towards E:\FR\FM\13JNP4.SGM 13JNP4 34021 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 114 / Friday, June 13, 2014 / Unified Agenda rebuilding the stock by 2014. The rule would close the Zone to all Pacific cod pot fishing in addition to the current trawl prohibition. This measure would help support blue king crab rebuilding and prevent exceeding the overfishing limit of blue king crab by minimizing to the extent practical blue king crab bycatch in the groundfish fisheries. Timetable: Action Date NPRM .................. FR Cite 06/00/14 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: James Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 709 West Ninth Street, Juneau, AK 99801, Phone: 907 586– 7221, Fax: 907 586–7465, Email: jim.balsiger@noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BC34 36. Amendment 3 to the Spiny Dogfish Fishery Management Plan Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: The action would make four modifications to the management measures in the Spiny Dogfish Fishery Management Plan. These include allowing up to 3 percent of the annual quota to be set aside for research purposes (research set-aside), updating the essential fish habitat definitions for spiny dogfish, allowing the previous year’s management measures to be carried over into the subsequent year in the case of rulemaking delays, and removing the seasonal allocation of the commercial quota. The action is needed to improve the efficiency of the Spiny Dogfish Fishery Management Plan, and help reduce misalignment of regulations with the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission’s Interstate Fishery Management Plan for spiny dogfish. Timetable: Date NPRM .................. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS4 Action FR Cite 06/00/14 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 978 281–9287, Email: john.bullard@ noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BC77 VerDate Mar<15>2010 18:28 Jun 12, 2014 Jkt 232001 37. Pacific Coast Groundfish Trawl Rationalization Program Trailing Action: Rule To Modify Chafing Gear Regulations for Midwater Trawl Gear Used in the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: This action would modify the existing chafing gear regulations for midwater trawl gear, and includes housekeeping measures to clarify which vessels can use midwater trawl gear and where midwater trawl gear can be used. This action includes regulations that affect all trawl sectors (Shorebased Individual Fishing Quota Program, Mothership Cooperative Program, Catcher/Processor Cooperative Program, and tribal fishery) managed under the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery Management Plan. Timetable: Action Date NPRM .................. FR Cite 06/00/14 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Barry Thom, Deputy Regional Administrator, Northwest Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Building 1, 7600 Sand Point Way NE., Seattle, WA 48115–0070, Phone: 206 526–6150, Fax: 206 526–6426, Email: barry.thom@ noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BC84 38. Inner Limit of the Exclusive Economic Zone Under the MagnusonStevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: This action would define the term ‘‘inner limit of the exclusive economic zone’’ under the MagnusonStevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (MSA). The MSA establishes sovereign rights and exclusive management authority over fishery resources of the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone. The inner limit of the Exclusive Economic Zone is described as a line coterminous with the seaward boundary of each of the coastal states. National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), as well as the U.S. Coast Guard and state partners, enforce Federal fishery regulations on the basis of the 3 nautical mile line as it is represented on National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) charts. The use of 3 nautical mile line has caused confusion when NOAA charts are updated because the baseline for establishing this line is ambulatory. NMFS proposes to clarify/correct this by PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 defining this seaward boundary line to be a line established pursuant to the Submerged Lands Act. Timetable: Action Date Next Stage Undetermined. FR Cite 03/00/15 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Room 13362, 1315 EastWest Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 713–2334, Fax: 301 713–0596, Email: alan.risenhoover@ noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BC92 39. Fisheries Off West Coast States; West Coast Salmon Fisheries; Amendment 18; Essential Fish Habitat Descriptions for Pacific Salmon Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: The action would implement Amendment 18 to the Pacific Coast Salmon Fishery Management Plan. The purpose of the amendment is to address revisions to the Pacific coast salmon essential fish habitat provisions under the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act. Timetable: Action Date NPRM .................. FR Cite 06/00/14 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: William Stelle Jr., Regional Administrator West Coast Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way Northeast, Seattle, WA 98115, Phone: 206 526–6150. RIN: 0648–BC95 40. Vessel Monitoring Systems; Specification of Requirements for Mobile Transmitting Unit Type Approval Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: All vessels participating in a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Vessel Monitoring System program are required to acquire a National Marine Fisheries Serviceapproved mobile transmitting unit to comply with the Vessel Monitoring System requirements. Previously, this action was only taken through the publication of a notice in the Federal Register. However, this rule will establish the type-approval standards, E:\FR\FM\13JNP4.SGM 13JNP4 34022 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 114 / Friday, June 13, 2014 / Unified Agenda specifications, and procedures that vendors may reference to maintain typeapproval for their products and/or services. This action will establish typeapproval standards for the initial approval, subsequent assessments, and the procedures for rescinding the typeapproval if the vendor fails to comply with the performance standards. This action is necessary to ensure Vessel Monitoring System vendors continue to meet minimum performance standards over the long term. Timetable: Action Date NPRM .................. Final Action ......... FR Cite 06/00/14 08/00/14 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Room 13362, 1315 EastWest Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 713–2334, Fax: 301 713–0596, Email: alan.risenhoover@ noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BD02 mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS4 41. Regulatory Amendment 14 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Snapper-Grouper Fishery of the South Atlantic Region Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: The purpose of Regulatory Amendment 14 is to enhance socioeconomic benefits to fishermen and fishing communities that utilize the snapper-grouper fishery. Specifically, this rulemaking modifies the fishing year for greater amberjack, increases the minimum size limit for hogfish, modify the fishing year for black sea bass, changes the commercial fishing season for vermilion snapper, modifies the aggregate grouper bag limit, and revises the accountability measures for gag and vermilion snapper. Modifying the accountability measures for gag and vermilion snapper would enhance consistency and accuracy in the approach taken when the annual catch limit is met or projected to be met for these species. Timetable: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 727 824–5305, Fax: 727 824–5308, Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BD07 42. Amendment 5 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Dolphin Wahoo Fishery of the Atlantic Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: Amendment 5 to the Dolphin Wahoo Fishery Management Plan includes revisions to the acceptable biological catches, annual catch limits, recreational annual catch targets, and accountability measures for dolphin and wahoo; modifications to the framework procedure; and modifications to the sector allocations and trip limits for dolphin. The revisions incorporate updates to the recreational data as per the Marine Recreational Information Program, as well as revisions to commercial and forhire landings. The revisions are necessary to avoid triggering accountability measures for dolphin and wahoo based on recreational data under the Marine Recreational Fisheries Statistics Survey system. National Marine Fisheries Service no longer uses the Marine Recreational Fisheries Statistics Survey system, and now estimates recreational landings using the Marine Recreational Information Program. Additionally, this amendment would modify the framework procedure for dolphin and wahoo; modify sector allocations and adjust trip limits for dolphin. Timetable: Action Date FR Cite Notice .................. NPRM .................. 02/28/14 06/00/14 79 FR 11383 Action Date FR Cite Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 727 824–5305, Fax: 727 824–5308, Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BD08 Notice .................. Notice .................. NPRM .................. 04/17/13 08/02/13 06/00/14 78 FR 22846 78 FR 46925 43. Amendment 5B to the Highly Migratory Species Fishery Management Plan Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, VerDate Mar<15>2010 18:28 Jun 12, 2014 Jkt 232001 Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 971 et seq. Abstract: This rulemaking would propose management measures for dusky sharks, based on a recent stock PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 assessment, taking into consideration comments received on the proposed rule and Amendment 5 to the 2006 Consolidated Highly Migratory Species Fishery Management Plan. This rulemaking could consider a range of commercial and recreational management measures in both directed and incidental shark fisheries including, among other things, gear modifications, time/area closures, permitting, shark identification requirements, and reporting requirements. NMFS determined that dusky sharks are still overfished and still experiencing overfishing and originally proposed management measures to end overfishing and rebuild dusky sharks in a proposed rule for Draft Amendment 5 to the 2006 Consolidated Atlantic Highly Migratory Species Fishery Management Plan. That proposed rule also contained management measures for scalloped hammerhead, sandbar, blacknose and Gulf of Mexico blacktip sharks. NMFS decided to move forward with Draft Amendment 5’s management measures for scalloped hammerhead, sandbar, blacknose and Gulf of Mexico blacktip sharks in a final rule and final amendment that will now be referred to as ‘‘Amendment 5a’’ to the 2006 Consolidated Atlantic Highly Migratory Species Fishery Management Plan. Dusky shark management measures will be addressed in this separate, but related, action and will be referred to as ‘‘Amendment 5b’’. Timetable: Action Date NPRM .................. FR Cite 11/00/14 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Room 13362, 1315 EastWest Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 713–2334, Fax: 301 713–0596, Email: alan.risenhoover@ noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BD22 44. Amendment 105 Bering Sea Flatfish Harvest Specifications Flexibility Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: This action intends to provide additional harvest opportunities to participants in Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands (BSAI) flatfish fisheries while (1) maintaining catch below the annual catch limits for these species, and (2) ensuring that the maximum optimum yield for BSAI groundfish fisheries will not be exceeded. E:\FR\FM\13JNP4.SGM 13JNP4 34023 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 114 / Friday, June 13, 2014 / Unified Agenda Specifically, Amendment 105 to the BSAI Fishery Management Plan would establish a process for Amendment 80 cooperatives and Western Alaska Community Development Quota groups to exchange harvest quota from one of the three flatfish species for an equivalent amount of quota of another species. In no case could the amount of fish exchanged exceed the annual catch limit, commonly known as the allowable biological catch, of that species. This action would modify the annual harvest specification process to allow the North Pacific Fishery Management Council (Council) to establish the maximum amount of harvest quota that can be exchanged for each of the three flatfish species. This process would allow the Council to establish a buffer below the allowable biological catch to account for management or socioeconomic considerations. Each participant could only exchange harvest quota up to three times per year. This action is intended to promote the goals and objectives of the BSAI Fishery Management Plan, the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, and other applicable laws. Timetable: Action Date NPRM .................. FR Cite 06/00/14 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: James Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 709 West Ninth Street, Juneau, AK 99801, Phone: 907 586– 7221, Fax: 907 586–7465, Email: jim.balsiger@noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BD23 mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS4 45. Amendment 39 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish Resources of the Gulf of Mexico Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: The purpose of this action is to facilitate management of the recreational red snapper component in the reef fish fishery by reorganizing the federal fishery management strategy to better account for biological, social, and economic differences among the regions of the Gulf of Mexico. Regional management would enable regions and their associated communities to specify the optimal management parameters that best meet the needs of their local constituents thereby addressing regional socio-economic concerns. Timetable: VerDate Mar<15>2010 18:28 Jun 12, 2014 Jkt 232001 Action Date FR Cite Notice .................. NPRM .................. 05/13/13 03/00/15 78 FR 27956 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 727 824–5305, Fax: 727 824–5308, Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BD25 46. International Fisheries; Western and Central Pacific Fisheries for Highly Migratory Species; Fishing Restrictions Regarding the Oceanic Whitetip Shark and the Whale Shark Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 6901 et seq. Abstract: The rule would establish regulations under authority of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Convention Implementation Act to implement decisions of the Commission for the Conservation and Management of Highly Migratory Fish Stocks in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean on fishing restrictions regarding the oceanic whitetip shark and the whale shark. The regulations would apply to owners and operators of U.S. fishing vessels used for commercial fishing for highly migratory species in the area of application of the Convention on the Conservation and Management of Highly Migratory Fish Stocks in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean (Convention). The regulations for oceanic whitetip sharks would prohibit the retention, transshipment, storage, or landing of oceanic whitetip sharks and would require the release of any oceanic whitetip shark as soon as possible after it is caught. The regulations for whale sharks would prohibit setting a purse seine on a whale shark and would specify certain measures to be taken and reporting requirements in the event a whale shark is encircled in a purse seine net. This action is necessary for the United States to satisfy its obligations under the Convention, to which it is a Contracting Party. Timetable: Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Suite 1110, Honolulu, HI 96814, Phone: 808 944– 2281. RIN: 0648–BD44 47. Southern New England Effort Controls To Address Lobster Stock Rebuilding Measures Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: NMFS is considering to make revisions to Federal American lobster regulations intended to assist in rebuilding the Southern New England lobster stock. The proposed measures include trap reductions in Lobster Management Areas 2 and 3, a minimum carapace size increase for Lobster Management Area 3, mandatory vnotching of egg-bearing female lobster in Lobster Management Areas 2, 4, and 5, and seasonal closures in Lobster Management Areas 4, 5, and 6. These actions are recommended for Federal implementation by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (Commission). The proposed stock rebuilding measures were recommended by the Commission in consultation with some, but not all, Federal lobster permit holders through associated industry participation on the Commissions Lobster Conservation Management Teams. While this action could limit fishing effort and landings by Federal lobster permit holders in Southern New England, the proposed measures are consistent with those already implemented by the affected states. Timetable: Action Date FR Cite ANPRM ............... NPRM .................. 08/20/13 06/00/14 78 FR 51131 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 978 281–9287, Email: john.bullard@ noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BD45 FR Cite 48. Amendment 97 to the Fishery Management Plan for Groundfish of the Gulf of Alaska To Establish Chinook Salmon Prohibited Species Catch Limits for the Non-Pollock Trawl Fisheries Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Michael Tosatto, Regional Administrator for the Pacific Islands Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 773 et seq. Abstract: This rule would limit Chinook salmon prohibited species catch in the Western and Central Gulf of Alaska non-pollock trawl fisheries. Action Date NPRM .................. 06/00/14 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\13JNP4.SGM 13JNP4 34024 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 114 / Friday, June 13, 2014 / Unified Agenda Chinook salmon is a fully utilized species in Alaska coastal subsistence, recreational, and commercial fisheries. In recent years the returns of Chinook salmon to some Alaska river systems have been below the biological escapement goals established by the State of Alaska. This action is necessary to minimize the catch of Chinook salmon to the extent practicable in the Gulf of Alaska non-pollock trawl fisheries. The rule would establish a 7,500 Chinook salmon prohibited species annual limit that would be seasonally apportioned among fishing vessel sectors. If a sector reached its Chinook salmon prohibited species limit, further directed fishing for groundfish by vessels in that sector and season would be prohibited. Vessel operators would be required to retain salmon until the number of salmon has been determined by the vessel or plant observer and the observers data collection has been completed. About 70 vessels could be affected by this action. This action could reduce revenues from the fisheries, if the Chinook salmon prohibited species limit is reached before the groundfish quota is harvested. The action may also increase costs if vessel operators move fishing operations or take other actions to lower their catch of Chinook salmon. Timetable: Action Date NPRM .................. FR Cite 06/00/14 mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS4 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: James Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 709 West Ninth Street, Juneau, AK 99801, Phone: 907 586– 7221, Fax: 907 586–7465, Email: jim.balsiger@noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BD48 49. Implementation of the InterAmerican Tropical Tuna Commission Resolution for the Conservation of Whale Sharks and the Collection and Analyses of Data on Fish Aggregating Devices Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 951 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 961 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 971 et seq. Abstract: This rule would implement the Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commissions Resolution intended to conserve whale sharks and collect information on fish aggregating devices. This action would require that by July 1, 2014, owners and operators of purse seine vessels in the eastern Pacific VerDate Mar<15>2010 18:28 Jun 12, 2014 Jkt 232001 Ocean would be prohibited from setting a purse seine on a school of tuna associated with a live whale shark, if the shark is sighted prior to the beginning of the set. If a whale shark is encircled in the purse seine net the master of the vessel would be required to ensure that all reasonable steps are taken to ensure its safe release and report the details of the incident to the Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission and NMFS. By January 1, 2015, owners and operators of purse seine vessels operating in the Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission Convention area when fishing on fish aggregating devices would be required to collect and report the fish aggregating devices location and type. The data may be collected through a dedicated logbook, modifications to existing regional logsheets, or other domestic reporting procedures. Timetable: Action Date NPRM .................. FR Cite 06/00/14 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: William Stelle Jr., Regional Administrator West Coast Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way Northeast, Seattle, WA 98115, Phone: 206 526–6150. RIN: 0648–BD53 50. Framework Adjustment 8 to the Monkfish Fishery Management Plan Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: Framework Adjustment 8 would specify acceptable biological catch amounts, and annual catch limits, for the monkfish fishery during fishing years 2014–2016, based on an updated stock assessment completed in April 2013. This action would also set monkfish days-at-sea allocations and trip limits for both the Northern and Southern Fishery Management Areas to achieve recommended annual catch targets. In addition, this action would allow vessels issued a limited access monkfish Category H permit to fish throughout the Southern Fishery Management Area. Both the directed and incidental monkfish fisheries would be affected by this action. Specifically, Category H vessels would be provided with greater flexibility to fish for monkfish in a broader geographical area. Since the fishery has not fully harvested available quotas in recent years, it is not expected that potential increases or decreases in catch allowances are likely to have a substantial economic effect. PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 Timetable: Action Date NPRM .................. FR Cite 06/00/14 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 978 281–9287, Email: john.bullard@ noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BD56 51. South Atlantic Coastal Migratory Pelagics Framework Action 2013 (Section 610 Review) Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: Currently in the South Atlantic, transfer of harvested fish at sea is prohibited for any species under a commercial trip limit, and only two gillnets are allowed on a federally permitted Spanish mackerel vessel. In some instances the trip limit may be exceeded with just one gillnet set, and the excess fish must be discarded. Most discarded fish caught in gillnet gear die due to trauma caused during capture. The Framework Action would allow a portion of a gillnet and its contents to be transferred from a vessel that has met the Spanish mackerel trip limit to another vessel that has not yet reached the trip limit. Allowing transfer at sea for federally permitted Spanish mackerel vessels using gillnet gear is intended to reduce dead discards, and minimize waste when catch in one net exceeds the trip limit for the vessel. Additionally, the Framework Action would modify the commercial trip limits for Atlantic king mackerel in the Florida east coast subzone. The current system of trip limits may increase the rate of harvest causing the commercial sector to close before Lent, the most lucrative part of the fishing season. Therefore, the trip limit modifications that would be implemented through the Framework Action are expected to help minimize lost opportunities to fish, and optimize profitability in the king mackerel sector of the coastal migratory pelagics fishery. Timetable: Action Date NPRM .................. FR Cite 06/00/14 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, Department of Commerce, National E:\FR\FM\13JNP4.SGM 13JNP4 34025 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 114 / Friday, June 13, 2014 / Unified Agenda Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 727 824–5305, Fax: 727 824–5308, Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BD58 52. Implementation of a Program for Transshipments by Large Scale Fishing Vessels in the Eastern Pacific Ocean Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 951 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 971 et seq. Abstract: This rule would implement the Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission program to monitor transshipments by large-scale tuna fishing vessels, and would govern transshipments by U.S. large-scale tuna fishing vessels and carrier, or receiving, vessels. The rule would establish: Criteria for transshipping in port; criteria for transshipping at sea by longline vessels to an authorized carrier vessel with an Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission observer onboard and an operational vessel monitoring system; and require a Pacific Transshipment Declaration Form, which must be used to report transshipments in the Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission Convention Area. The rule is neither applicable to troll and poleand-line vessels, nor to vessels that transship fresh fish at sea.The frequency of transshipments in the Eastern Pacific Ocean is uncertain, but only a few transshipments are expected annually. A similar rule was adopted in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean and NMFS calculated that an average of twenty-four at-sea transshipments of fish caught by longline gear there have occurred annually from 1993 through 2009. Transshipments in the Eastern Pacific Ocean are likely to be much less than twenty-four per year. This rule is necessary for the United States to satisfy its international obligations under the 1949 Convention for the Establishment of an Inter-American Tropical Tuna, to which it is a Contracting Party. Timetable: Date NPRM .................. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS4 Action FR Cite 06/00/14 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: William Stelle Jr., Regional Administrator West Coast Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way Northeast, Seattle, WA 98115, Phone: 206 526–6150. RIN: 0648–BD59 VerDate Mar<15>2010 18:28 Jun 12, 2014 Jkt 232001 53. Amendment 45 to the Fishery Management Plan for Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands King and Tanner Crab Freezer Longline Catcher/Processor Pacific Cod Sideboard Removal Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: This rule would establish conditions for the removal of Gulf of Alaska Pacific cod catch limits, known as sideboards, which apply to some catcher/processor vessels using hookand-line gear, also known as freezer longliners. The newly reorganized sideboard limits have effectively eliminated the ability of these stakeholders to participant in these Gulf of Alaska fisheries. The rule would remove the Gulf of Alaska Pacific cod sideboards from 6 freezer longline vessels if owners of vessels endorsed to catch and process Pacific cod in the Western Gulf of Alaska, Central Gulf of Alaska, or both (a total of 9 vessels) agree to removal of the sideboards, within one year from the effective date of a final rule. If an agreement is not reached by the deadline, the sideboarded vessels would not be able to participate in the Gulf of Alaska fisheries. The requirement for an agreement is intended to promote cooperation among all affected parties prior to the removal of sideboards. Timetable: Action Date NPRM .................. FR Cite 07/00/14 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: James Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 709 West Ninth Street, Juneau, AK 99801, Phone: 907 586– 7221, Fax: 907 586–7465, Email: jim.balsiger@noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BD61 54. Information Collection Program for Atlantic Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Fisheries Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: NMFS is implementing this information collection program at the request of the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council). This program will collect additional information about the individuals who hold and/or control Individual Transferable Quota in the Atlantic surfclam and ocean quahog fisheries. This information will be used by the Council in the consideration and development of excessive shares cap(s) in these Individual Transferable Quota fisheries. PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 Timetable: Action Date NPRM .................. FR Cite 06/00/14 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 978 281–9287, Email: john.bullard@ noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BD64 55. • Red Snapper Allocation— Amendment 28 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish Resources of the Gulf of Mexico (Section 610 Review) Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: The current allocation of red snapper between the commercial and recreational sectors is 51:49 percent, respectively. The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council (Council) is considering a change in the allocation with the aim of increasing the net benefits from red snapper fishing and increasing the stability of the red snapper component of the reef fish fishery, particularly for the recreational sector which has experienced shorter and shorter seasons. The Council initially considered options that increased the commercial sectors allocation above the current 51 percent. However, after considering the economic analyses conducted by the Southeast Fisheries Science Center and the loss of fishing opportunities by the recreational sector, the Council concluded that such a reallocation would not meet the purpose and need of this action. Therefore, the Council has limited the options under consideration to those that would increase the recreational sectors allocation above 49 percent. Timetable: Action Date NPRM .................. FR Cite 08/00/14 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 727 824–5305, Fax: 727 824–5308, Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BD68 E:\FR\FM\13JNP4.SGM 13JNP4 34026 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 114 / Friday, June 13, 2014 / Unified Agenda 56. • Amendment 96 to the Fishery Management Plan for Groundfish of the Gulf of Alaska To Revise the Community Quota Entity Program Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 773 et seq. Abstract: Amendment 96 to the Fishery Management Plan for Groundfish of the Gulf of Alaska would modify the halibut and sablefish Individual Fishing Quota Program regulations for management of community quota entities in the Gulf of Alaska. The action revises the Individual Fishing Quota Program by removing a restriction on community quota entities holdings of quota share. Removing this restriction provides community quota entities access to more affordable quota shares, which could enhance the ability of the community quota entities community to realize economic benefits from additional community resident participation in the halibut and sablefish fisheries. Timetable: Action Date NPRM .................. FR Cite 06/00/14 mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS4 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: James Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 709 West Ninth Street, Juneau, AK 99801, Phone: 907 586– 7221, Fax: 907 586–7465, Email: jim.balsiger@noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BD74 57. • Amendment 7 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Dolphin Wahoo Fishery of the Atlantic Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: The intent of this amendment is to make regulations for dolphin and wahoo consistent with those existing regulations for snappergrouper species. Amendment 7 to the Dolphin Wahoo Fishery Management Plan would allow fishermen to bring fillets of dolphin and wahoo from the Bahamas into the U.S. exclusive economic zone, as regulations already allow fillets of snapper-grouper species to be brought from the Bahamas into the U.S. exclusive economic zone. This rule would allow fishermen to bring fillets of dolphin and wahoo into the U.S. exclusive economic zone that were lawfully harvested in Bahamian waters, provided valid Bahamian fishing and cruising permits are on board the vessel, and the vessel is in transit through the Atlantic exclusive economic zone. VerDate Mar<15>2010 18:28 Jun 12, 2014 Jkt 232001 Timetable: Action Date NPRM .................. FR Cite 12/00/14 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 727 824–5305, Fax: 727 824–5308, Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BD76 58. • Regulatory Amendment 16 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Snapper–Grouper Fishery of the South Atlantic Region Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: Regulatory Amendment 16 contains an action to address the prohibition on the use of black sea bass pots annually from November 1 through April 30 that was implemented through Regulatory Amendment 19. The prohibition was a precautionary measure to prevent interactions between black sea bass pot gear and whales listed under the Endangered Species Act during large whale migrations and the right whale calving season off the southeastern coast. The South Atlantic Fishery Management Council, through Regulatory Amendment 16, is considering removal of the closure, changing the length of the closure, and changing the area of the closure. The goal is to minimize adverse socioeconomic impacts to black sea bass pot endorsement holders while maintaining protection for Endangered Species Actlisted whales in the South Atlantic region. Timetable: Action Date NPRM .................. FR Cite 03/00/15 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 727 824–5305, Fax: 727 824–5308, Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BD78 59. • Amendment 8 to the Fishery Management Plan for Coral, Coral Reefs, and Live/Hardbottom Habitats of the South Atlantic Region Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 Abstract: Coral Amendment 8 would modify the boundaries of the Oculina Bank Habitat Area of Particular Concern, the Stetson-Miami Terrace Coral Habitat Area of Particular Concern, and the Cape Lookout Coral Habitat Area of Particular Concern to protect deepwater coral ecosystems. The amendment also proposes to implement a transit provision through the Oculina Bank Habitat Area of Particular Concern for fishing vessels with rock shrimp onboard. Timetable: Action Date NPRM .................. FR Cite 06/00/14 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 727 824–5305, Fax: 727 824–5308, Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BD81 60. • Amendment 20A to the Fishery Management Plan for the Coastal Migratory Pelagic Resources of the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Region Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: Amendment 20A would prohibit the sale of king and Spanish mackerel caught under the bag limit in the Gulf of Mexico and South Atlantic regions except under limited circumstances. For the Gulf of Mexico, the amendment would prohibit the sale of king and Spanish mackerel caught under the bag limit unless those fish are either caught on a for-hire trip and the vessel has both a for-hire and commercial vessel permit, or the fish are caught as part of a state-permitted tournament and the proceeds from the sale are donated to charity. For the South Atlantic region, the amendment would prohibit the sale of king and Spanish mackerel caught under the bag limit unless the fish are caught as part of a state-permitted tournament and the proceeds from the sale are donated to charity. In addition, the amendment would remove the income qualification requirement for king and Spanish mackerel commercial permits. This action would not affect the number of king mackerel permits, which are limited access, but could increase the number of Spanish mackerel permits, which are open access. Timetable: E:\FR\FM\13JNP4.SGM 13JNP4 34027 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 114 / Friday, June 13, 2014 / Unified Agenda Action Date NPRM .................. FR Cite 06/00/14 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 727 824–5305, Fax: 727 824–5308, Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BD83 61. • Amendment 100 to the FMP for Groundfish of the BSAI Management Area and Amendment 91 to the FMP for Groundfish of the Gulf of Alaska To Add Grenadiers to the Ecosystem Component Category Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: Amendments 100 and 91 would amend the Fishery Management Plan to add grenadiers to the ecosystem component category. Grenadiers are caught incidentally in the groundfish fisheries, and adding them to the Fishery Management Plans would recognize their role in the ecosystem. NMFS would also implement regulations for federally-permitted groundfish fishermen to improve reporting of grenadiers, limit retention, and prevent directed fishing for grenadiers. This action is necessary to limit the groundfish fisheries impact on grenadiers. Federally-permitted groundfish fishermen would be affected by the proposed rule, however, the anticipated impacts are considered to be de minimis according the economic analysis prepared for this action. Timetable: Date NPRM .................. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS4 Action FR Cite 06/00/14 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: James Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 709 West Ninth Street, Juneau, AK 99801, Phone: 907 586– 7221, Fax: 907 586–7465, Email: jim.balsiger@noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BD98 62. • Framework Adjustment 2 to the Northeast Skate Complex Fishery Management Plan Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: This action includes skate fishery specifications for the 2014–2015 fishing years, and modifications to skate VerDate Mar<15>2010 18:28 Jun 12, 2014 Jkt 232001 reporting requirements for vessels and dealers. This action would establish: an annual catch limit for the skate complex of 35,479 mt (a decrease from 50,435 mt in 2013); an overall total allowable landings of 16,385 mt (a decrease from 23,365 mt in 2013); status quo possession limits for the skate wing and bait fisheries; and changes to skate vessel and dealer reporting requirements to improve speciesspecific landings data, including removal of ‘‘unclassified skate’’ reporting options. Timetable: Action Date NPRM .................. FR Cite 06/00/14 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 978 281–9287, Email: john.bullard@ noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BD99 63. Marine Mammal Protection Act Permit Regulation Revisions Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1374 Abstract: This action would consider revisions to the implementing regulations governing the issuance of permits for activities under section 104 of the Marine Mammal Protection Act. The intent of this action would be to streamline and update (using plain language) the general permitting information and the specific requirements for the four categories of permits: scientific research (including the General Authorization); enhancement; educational and commercial photography; and public display. The revisions would also simplify procedures for collection, possession, and transfer of marine mammals parts collected before the effective date of the Marine Mammal Protection Act, and also clarify reporting requirements for public display facilities holding marine mammals. Timetable: Action Date FR Cite ANPRM ............... ANPRM Comment Period Extended. ANPRM Comment Period End. 09/13/07 10/15/07 72 FR 52339 72 FR 58279 11/13/07 72 FR 52339 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 Action Date FR Cite ANPRM Comment Period Extended End. NPRM .................. 12/13/07 72 FR 58279 12/00/14 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Donna Wieting, Fishery Biologist, Office of Protected Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 713–2322. RIN: 0648–AV82 64. Designation of Critical Habitat for the North Atlantic Right Whale Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1361 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 1531 to 1543 Abstract: National Marine Fisheries Service proposes to designate critical habitat for the North Atlantic right whale. This proposal would result in an expansion of critical habitat in the northeast feeding area (Gulf of MaineGeorges Bank region) and the southeast calving area (Florida to North Carolina) compared to what was designated in 1994 for right whales. Timetable: Action Date NPRM .................. FR Cite 09/00/14 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Donna Wieting, Fishery Biologist, Office of Protected Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 713–2322. RIN: 0648–AY54 65. Amendment and Updates to the Bottlenose Dolphin Take Reduction Plan Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1361 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. Abstract: This action would amend regulations under the Bottlenose Dolphin Take Reduction Plan (Plan) to reduce bottlenose dolphin serious injuries and mortalities incidental to the Virginia Pound net fishery. The Plan recommends the year-round use of modified leaders for offshore pound nets within parts of the Chesapeake Bay and Virginia coastal waters. Regulations for Virginia Pound Nets are currently implemented under the Endangered Species Act for sea turtle conservation. The Plan recommended similar E:\FR\FM\13JNP4.SGM 13JNP4 34028 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 114 / Friday, June 13, 2014 / Unified Agenda regulations to those currently enacted under the Endangered Species Act; however, the regulations under the Plan will offer greater conservation benefits to both bottlenose dolphins and sea turtles. Because the regulations may affect current sea turtle regulations, a joint-rulemaking will be conducted under both the Marine Mammal Protection Act and Endangered Species Act to amend: (1) the Plan under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, proposing Virginia pound net requirements; and (2) current federal sea turtle regulations for Virginia pound nets under the Endangered Species Act to ensure consistency between regulations. Timetable: Action NPRM Date FR Cite NOS/ONMS mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS4 66. • Revisions to Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary Regulations Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1431 et seq. Abstract: In 2010, the Office of National Marine Sanctuaries (ONMS) initiated a review of the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary management plan, to evaluate substantive progress toward implementing the goals for the sanctuary, and to make revisions to its management plan and regulations as necessary to fulfill the purposes and policies of the National Marine Sanctuaries Act (NMSA) and the Hawaiian Islands National Marine Sanctuary Act (HINMSA; Title II, Subtitle C, Pub. L. 102587). ONMS intends to publish a proposed rule and draft EIS that proposes to expand the scope of the sanctuary to ecosystem based management rather than concentrating on only humpback whales. In addition, possible boundary expansion will be discussed. Timetable: 18:28 Jun 12, 2014 Jkt 232001 Date FR Cite Notice .................. NPRM .................. 07/14/10 09/00/14 75 FR 40759 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Edward Lindelof, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 713–3137. RIN: 0648–BD97 DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC) Final Rule Stage National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) 68. Amendment 7 to the 2006 Consolidated Highly Migratory Species Fishery Management Plan Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 971 et seq. Abstract: Amendment 7 focuses on bluefin tuna fishery management issues consistent with the need to end overfishing and rebuild the stock. Measures in draft Amendment 7 address several of the long-standing challenges facing the fishery and will analyze, among other things, revisiting quota allocations; reducing and accounting for dead discards; adding or modifying time/area closures or gear-restricted areas; and improving the reporting and monitoring of dead discards and landings in all categories. Timetable: Action Date Notice .................. Notice .................. NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period Extended. Public Hearing ..... NPRM Comment Period Reopened. Public Hearing ..... Final Action ......... 04/23/12 06/08/12 08/21/13 09/18/13 77 77 78 78 11/05/13 12/11/13 78 FR 66327 78 FR 75327 12/26/13 09/00/14 78 FR 78322 National Marine Fisheries Service 06/00/14 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Donna Wieting, Fishery Biologist, Office of Protected Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 713–2322. RIN: 0648–BB37 VerDate Mar<15>2010 Action 67. American Lobster Fishery; Fishing Effort Control Measures To Complement Interstate Lobster Management Recommendations by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 5101 et seq. Abstract: The action would limit future access in the Lobster Conservation Management Area (Area) 2 and Outer Cape Area lobster trap fishery based on historic participation criteria, and implement a transferable trap program in Area 2, Area 3, and the Outer Cape Area as recommended by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission. National Marine Fisheries Service proposes to use the same historic participation data and qualification criteria used by state agencies to qualify state lobstermen fishing in the state waters of the subject management areas. Timetable: Action Date FR Cite ANPRM ............... ANPRM Comment Period End. Notice of Public Meeting. NPRM .................. Final Action ......... 05/10/05 06/09/05 70 FR 24495 05/03/10 75 FR 23245 06/12/13 06/00/14 78 FR 35217 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 978 281–9287, Email: john.bullard@ noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–AT31 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 FR Cite FR FR FR FR 24161 34025 52032 57340 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Room 13362, 1315 EastWest Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 713–2334, Fax: 301 713–0596, Email: alan.risenhoover@ noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BC09 69. Generic Amendment to Several Fishery Management Plans in the Gulf of Mexico and South Atlantic Regions To Modify Federally-Permitted Seafood Dealer Reporting Requirements Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: To better ensure commercial landings of managed fish stocks do not exceed annual catch limits, improvements are needed to the accuracy, completeness, consistency, and timeliness of data submitted by federally-permitted seafood dealers. The purpose of the generic amendment is to change the current reporting requirements for those dealers who purchase fish managed under several of the Gulf of Mexico and South Atlantic Fishery Management Council fishery management plans. Changes are proposed to the current six dealer E:\FR\FM\13JNP4.SGM 13JNP4 34029 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 114 / Friday, June 13, 2014 / Unified Agenda permits to increase the species that must be reported. Changes are also proposed to the method and frequency of dealer reporting. This action will aid in achieving the optimum yield from each fishery while reducing (1) undue socioeconomic harm to dealers and fishermen and (2) administrative burdens to fishery agencies. Timetable: Action Date FR Cite Notice .................. NPRM .................. Final Action ......... 12/19/13 01/02/14 06/00/14 78 FR 76807 79 FR 81 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No. Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 727 824–5305, Fax: 727 824–5308, Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BC12 mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS4 70. Georges Bank Yellowtail Flounder Emergency Action To Provide a Partial Exemption From Accountability Measures to the Atlantic Scallop Fishery Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: This action, requested by the New England Fishery Management Council, exempts the Atlantic sea scallop fishery from any accountability measure for catch of Georges Bank yellowtail flounder exceeding the revised sub-annual catch limit of 156.9 mt up to the initial sub-annual catch limit level of 307.5 mt. By exempting the scallop fleet from accountability measures at the lower revised 156.9 mt sub-ACL, but maintaining accountability at the 307.5 mt level initially set for the fishing year, there remains a need for the scallop fleet to mitigate yellowtail flounder catch but to do so within the context of the initial level established for the fishing year. This specific accountability measure is not needed to comply with Magnuson Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act requirements because there is an accountability measure at the fishery level that remains unchanged by this proposed action. Any overage of the fishery level ACL is repaid pound-forpound in a subsequent fishing year. Timetable: Action Date FR Cite NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. 10/01/12 10/31/12 77 FR 59883 VerDate Mar<15>2010 18:28 Jun 12, 2014 Jkt 232001 Action Date Final Action— Withdrawal of the Proposed Rule. FR Cite 06/00/14 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 978 281–9287, Email: john.bullard@ noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BC33 71. Modification to the Hired Skipper Regulations for Management of the Individual Fishing Quota Program for the Fixed-GEAR Commercial Fisheries for Pacific Halibut and Sablefish in Waters of Alaska Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 773 et seq. Abstract: This action would amend the hired master regulations of the Individual Fishing Quota Program for the fixed-gear commercial Pacific halibut and sablefish fisheries in the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands management area and the Gulf of Alaska. The Individual Fishing Quota Program allows initial recipients of catcher vessel halibut and sablefish quota share to hire a vessel master to harvest Individual Fishing Quota derived from the quota share. When a hired master fishes an initial recipients Individual Fishing Quota, the initial recipient is exempt from being onboard the vessel. This action would remove the owner-onboard exemption to hire a master to harvest Individual Fishing Quota derived from quota share that an initial recipient received by transfer after February 12, 2010. Between February 12, 2010 and the effective date of this action, initial recipient quota share transferred into a quota share block of the same category would retain the hired master privilege. After the effective date of this action, no hired master privilege would be retained on initial recipient quota share consolidated with quota share of the same category. This action is necessary to maintain a predominantly owneroperated fishery. Timetable: Action Date FR Cite NPRM .................. Final Action ......... 04/26/13 06/00/14 78 FR 24707 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 Agency Contact: James Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 709 West Ninth Street, Juneau, AK 99801, Phone: 907 586– 7221, Fax: 907 586–7465, Email: jim.balsiger@noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BC62 72. Allowing Northeast Multispecies Sector Vessels Access to Year-Round Closed Areas Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: This action allows Northeast Multispecies vessels enrolled in a sector to fish in any of three year-round closed areas on Georges Bank during select times of the 2013 fishing year. This rule allows fishing access for Northeast multispecies sectors to two portions of the Southern New England Nantucket Lightship Closed Area for the remainder of the 2013 fishing year, under specified conditions. The intent of this rule is to allow sector vessels increased opportunities to harvest non-groundfish stocks such as monkfish, dogfish, and skates, while minimizing impacts to overfished groundfish stock such as Georges Bank cod and yellowtail flounder. Timetable: Action Date FR Cite NPRM .................. Interim Final Rule Final Action ......... 07/11/13 12/16/13 06/00/14 78 FR 41772 78 FR 76077 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 978 281–9287, Email: john.bullard@ noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BD09 73. Pacific Coast Groundfish Trawl Rationalization Program Trailing Actions: Permitting Requirements for Observer and Catch Monitor Providers Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: This action would modify regulations pertaining to certified catch monitors and observers required under the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery Management Plan. The action specifies permitting requirements for business entities interested in providing certified observers and catch monitor services, as well as addresses numerous housekeeping measures and updates observer provider and vessel responsibilities relative to observer E:\FR\FM\13JNP4.SGM 13JNP4 34030 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 114 / Friday, June 13, 2014 / Unified Agenda safety such that the regulations are consistent with the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act of 2012. This action affects individuals serving as certified catch monitors and observers, business entities that provide certified catch monitors and observers, vessels that are required to carry certified observers, and shore-based business entities that are required to employ the services of certified catch monitors. Timetable: Action Date FR Cite NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. Final Action ......... 02/19/14 03/21/14 79 FR 9591 06/00/14 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: William Stelle Jr., Regional Administrator West Coast Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way Northeast, Seattle, WA 98115, Phone: 206 526–6150. RIN: 0648–BD30 74. Pacific Coast Groundfish Trawl Rationalization Program; Second Program Improvement and Enhancement Rule mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS4 Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: This action implements trailing actions for the Pacific coast groundfish trawl rationalization program in order to further improve and refine the program. Since implementation of the program in January 2011, the Pacific Fishery Management Council (Council) and NMFS have developed numerous trailing actions to the program. This action includes multiple components that either implement original provisions of the program, or increase flexibility or efficiency, or address minor revisions/clarifications. Implementation of Quota share transfer regulations is also included in this action. The other components of this action are intended to increase flexibility and efficiency for participants and the Agency, and to make minor clarifications to the program regulations. Timetable: Action Date FR Cite NPRM .................. Final Rule ............ Correcting Amendment. 07/19/13 11/15/13 06/00/14 78 FR 43125 78 FR 68764 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. VerDate Mar<15>2010 18:28 Jun 12, 2014 Jkt 232001 Agency Contact: William Stelle Jr., Regional Administrator West Coast Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way Northeast, Seattle, WA 98115, Phone: 206 526–6150. RIN: 0648–BD31 75. Modifications to the Pacific Coast Groundfish Trawl Rockfish Conservation Area Boundaries Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: This action would implement recommendations from the Pacific Fishery Management Council to liberalize trawl Rockfish Conservation Area boundaries for participants in the Pacific Coast groundfish shorebased individual fishing quota program, beginning November 1, 2013 through the end of 2014. Different trawl Rockfish Conservation Area variations have been in place since 2002–2003 and are typically adjusted through routine inseason actions to keep overfished fish species within acceptable catch limits or harvest guidelines. This rule proposes to modify the trawl Rockfish Conservation Area boundaries, in order to increase access to target species. This rule would increase fishermen’s access to their target species allocations, while allowing the individual accountability inherent in the individual fishing quota program to reduce bycatch. This action would also increase the flexibility and efficiency for individual fishing quota program participants, and maintain the full catch accounting requirements of the individual fishing quota program. Timetable: Action Date FR Cite NPRM .................. Final Action ......... 09/13/13 06/00/14 78 FR 56641 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: William Stelle Jr., Regional Administrator West Coast Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way Northeast, Seattle, WA 98115, Phone: 206 526–6150. RIN: 0648–BD37 76. Framework Adjustment 8 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid and Butterfish Fishery Management Plan Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: Framework 8 announces several changes to facilitate the operation of the butterfish discard cap on the longfin squid fishery. The alternatives proposed in Framework 8 would allocate the butterfish discard PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 cap among the Trimesters in the same percentages used for the trimester allocations for longfin squid. In addition, Framework 8 would allow NMFS to transfer, in either direction, a certain amount of unused quota between the butterfish landing allocation and the discard cap on the longfin squid fishery. This would occur near the end of the year, in order to optimally utilize the butterfish that is available for fishing each year. Timetable: Action Date FR Cite NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. Final Action ......... 01/31/14 03/03/14 79 FR 5364 06/00/14 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 978 281–9287, Email: john.bullard@ noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BD50 77. Implementation of the InterAmerican Tropical Tuna Commission Resolution To Establish a Vessel Monitoring System Program in the Eastern Pacific Ocean Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 951 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 971 et seq. Abstract: This rule would implement the Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commissions Resolution intended to require owners and operators of tunafishing vessels to have installed, activate, carry and operate vessel monitoring system units (also known as mobile transmitting units).This regulation would apply to owners and operators of tuna-fishing vessels 24 meters or more in length, operating in the eastern Pacific Ocean. The vessel monitoring system units would have to be type-approved, and authorize the Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission and NMFS to receive and relay transmissions (also called position reports) from the vessel monitoring system unit. Vessel monitoring systems may enhance the safety of some vessels by allowing the vessels location to be tracked, which could assist in rescue efforts. This regulation would apply to commercial vessels and would not apply to recreational or charter vessels. This rule would apply to approximately seventy-four vessels, however, roughly thirty-eight of these vessels are already subject to vessel monitoring system E:\FR\FM\13JNP4.SGM 13JNP4 34031 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 114 / Friday, June 13, 2014 / Unified Agenda requirements under the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission. Due to the relatively small number of vessels affected, this rule is not expected to garner public opposition or congressional interest. Timetable: Action Date FR Cite NPRM .................. Correction ............ Final Action ......... 02/06/14 02/25/14 06/00/14 79 FR 7152 79 FR 10465 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: William Stelle Jr., Regional Administrator West Coast Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way Northeast, Seattle, WA 98115, Phone: 206 526–6150. RIN: 0648–BD54 mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS4 78. Implementation of the InterAmerican Tropical Tuna Commission Resolution To Adopt Conservation and Management Measures for Pacific Bluefin Tuna in the Eastern Pacific Ocean Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 951 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 971 et seq. Abstract: This action proposes regulations adopted by the InterAmerican Tropical Tuna Commission that would place a limit on commercial harvests of Pacific bluefin tuna in the eastern Pacific Ocean in 2014. The InterAmerican Tropical Tuna Commission resolution imposes an international aggregate catch limit of 5,000 metric tons for commercial fleets in the Eastern Pacific Ocean and, as in past years, the Resolution allows a minimum of 500 metric tons for nations such as the United States that have historically fished Pacific bluefin tuna in the Eastern Pacific Ocean but do not harvest large amounts. The rule is expected to have a beneficial impact on Pacific bluefin tuna and other living marine resources since it would extend catch limits currently set to expire December 31, 2013. This rule is likely to have negligible economic impacts because the U.S. fleets that catch Pacific bluefin tuna have not caught more than 500 metric tons of bluefin in more than a decade. Timetable: Action Date FR Cite NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. Final Action ......... 01/10/14 02/10/14 79 FR 1810 VerDate Mar<15>2010 06/00/14 18:28 Jun 12, 2014 Jkt 232001 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: William Stelle Jr., Regional Administrator West Coast Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way Northeast, Seattle, WA 98115, Phone: 206 526–6150. RIN: 0648–BD55 79. 2014 Specifications and Management Measures for the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fisheries Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: This action establishes catch levels and associated management measures for the 2014 fishing year for species managed under the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fishery Management Plan. The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council reaffirmed the 3-year catch level recommendations for Illex squid and longfin squid (2012– 2014), and for Atlantic mackerel (2013– 2015), so no changes are proposed for catch levels for those species. The proposed action would: increase the butterfish ABC by 8 percent, and the butterfish landings limit by 24 percent, compared to 2013; set a 236 mt cap on river herring and shad catch in the mackerel fishery; raise the post-closure possession limit for longfin squid to 10,000 lb for vessels targeting Illex squid; and change the butterfish Phase 3 trip limit to 600 lb (from 500 lb) for longfin squid/butterfish moratorium permit holders to make it consistent with the incidental butterfish trip limit. Timetable: Action Date FR Cite NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. Final Action ......... 01/10/14 02/10/14 79 FR 1813 06/00/14 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 978 281–9287, Email: john.bullard@ noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BD65 80. Modifications to Identification Markings on Fishing Gear Marker Buoys Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 3631 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 773 et seq.; Pub. L. 108–447 Abstract: This rule would eliminate the requirement that buoys marking the PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 location of commercial fishing gear be marked with the vessels name, in addition to a vessel identification number. Current regulations require buoy markings to make it possible to identify the vessel from which the gear was deployed. Experience shows that it is not necessary to mark buoys with both the vessels name and Federal fisheries permit number. While one vessel may share the same name as another vessel, vessel identification numbers are exclusive and unique to the recipient vessel. The purpose of this action is to reduce regulatory burdens by eliminating the requirement to mark buoys with the vessels name, and will reduce costs to vessel owners by reducing the labor and materials needed to mark buoys. Timetable: Action Date NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. Final Action ......... 01/03/14 02/03/14 FR Cite 79 FR 381 06/00/14 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: James Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 709 West Ninth Street, Juneau, AK 99801, Phone: 907 586– 7221, Fax: 907 586–7465, Email: jim.balsiger@noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BD66 81. • Pacific Halibut Fisheries; Catch Sharing Plan Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 773 et seq. Abstract: Each year, the Pacific Fishery Management Council (Council) reviews and receives public comment on its Pacific Halibut Catch Sharing Plan (Plan) to determine whether revisions are needed to achieve management objectives for any of the West Coast halibut fisheries. For 2014 and beyond, the Council has recommended minor changes to the portion of the Plan covering the allocations and sport fisheries. For the Washington north coast subarea sport fishery the recommended changes clarify the season structure and remove the provisions for a nearshore fishery. For the Columbia River subarea sport fishery the recommended changes revise the days of the week the fishery is open and modify the subarea allocation to provide for a new nearshore fishery within the subarea. For the Oregon central coast subarea sport fishery the changes include modifying the nearshore fishery. For the South of E:\FR\FM\13JNP4.SGM 13JNP4 34032 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 114 / Friday, June 13, 2014 / Unified Agenda Humbug Mountain subarea, the recommended changes include breaking the subarea into separate subareas for Southern Oregon and California, and allocating catch to these subareas from existing allocations. These recommended changes to the Plan are implemented through the annual regulations. The annual regulations will also include the 2014 halibut quota for the West Coast fisheries as recommended by the International Pacific Halibut Commission. Timetable: Action Date FR Cite NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. Final Action ......... 02/06/14 02/21/14 79 FR 7156 06/00/14 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: William Stelle Jr., Regional Administrator West Coast Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way Northeast, Seattle, WA 98115, Phone: 206 526–6150. RIN: 0648–BD82 mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS4 82. • Temporary Rule Through Emergency Action To Revise Annual Catch Limits and Accountability Measures for Blueline Tilefish and the Deep-Water Complex in the South Atlantic Region Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: In October 2013, NMFS determined the blueline tilefish stock in the South Atlantic is experiencing overfishing and is overfished. As mandated by Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, NMFS and the Council must prepare and implement a plan amendment and regulations to end overfishing immediately and rebuild the stock by December 6, 2015. The Council and NMFS, through actions in a future amendment, plan to implement a rebuilding plan and management actions to end overfishing and rebuild the blueline tilefish stock. In the interim, NMFS will publish an emergency rule to implement temporary annual catch limits and accountability measures for blueline tilefish, and modify the current annual catch limits and accountability measures for the deep-water complex. The goal of this action is to minimize future adverse biological effects to the blueline tilefish stock, and the socio-economic effects to fishermen and fishing communities that utilize the blueline tilefish, while a permanent rulemaking designed to end VerDate Mar<15>2010 18:28 Jun 12, 2014 Jkt 232001 overfishing and rebuild the stock is developed. Timetable: Action Date Final Action ......... FR Cite 06/00/14 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 727 824–5305, Fax: 727 824–5308, Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BD87 83. Revision of Hawaiian Monk Seal Critical Habitat Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1533 Abstract: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries is developing a final rule to designate critical habitat for the Hawaiian monk seal in the main and Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. In response to a 2008 petition from the Center for Biological Diversity, Kahea, and the Ocean Conservancy to revise Hawaiian monk seal critical habitat, NOAA Fisheries published a proposed rule in June 2011 to revise Hawaiian monk seal critical habitat by adding critical habitat in the main Hawaiian Islands and extending critical habitat in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. Proposed critical habitat includes both marine and terrestrial habitats (e.g., foraging areas to 500 meter depth, pupping beaches, etc.). To address public comments on the proposed rule, NOAA Fisheries is augmenting its prior economic analysis to better describe the anticipated costs of the designation. NOAA Fisheries is analyzing new tracking data to assess monk seal habitat use in the main Hawaiian Islands. That may lead to some reduction in foraging area critical habitat for the main Hawaiian Islands to better reflect where preferred foraging features may be found. Timetable: Action Date FR Cite NPRM .................. Notice of Public Meetings. Other ................... Final Action ......... 06/02/11 07/14/11 76 FR 32026 76 FR 41446 06/25/12 06/00/14 77 FR 37867 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Donna Wieting, Fishery Biologist, Office of Protected Resources, Department of Commerce, PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 1315 East–West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 713–2322. RIN: 0648–BA81 84. Endangered and Threatened Species: Designation of Critical Habitat for Threatened Lower Columbia River Coho Salmon and Puget Sound Steelhead Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1531 to 1544 Abstract: This action will designate critical habitat for lower Columbia River coho salmon and Puget Sound steelhead, currently listed as threatened species under the Endangered Species Act. The specific areas proposed for designation in for lower Columbia River coho include approximately 2,288 mi (3,681 km) of freshwater and estuarine habitat in Oregon and Washington. The specific areas proposed for designation for Puget Sound steelhead include approximately 1,880 mi (3,026 km) of freshwater and estuarine habitat in Puget Sound, Washington. Timetable: Action Date FR Cite NPRM .................. Final Action ......... 01/14/13 11/00/14 78 FR 2725 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Donna Wieting, Fishery Biologist, Office of Protected Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 1315 East–West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 713–2322. RIN: 0648–BB30 85. Designation of Critical Habitat for the Distinct Population Segments of Yelloweye Rockfish, Canary Rockfish, and Bocaccio Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. Abstract: This action proposes to designate critical habitat under the Endangered Species Act for three Distinct Population Segments of rockfish in the Puget Sound/Georgia Basin: (1) The threatened Distinct Population Segments of yelloweye rockfish; (2) the threatened Distinct Population Segments of canary rockfish; and (3) the endangered Distinct Population Segments of bocaccio. The proposed specific areas for canary rockfish and bocaccio comprise approximately 505 hectares (1,249 acres) of marine habitat in Puget Sound. The proposed areas for yelloweye E:\FR\FM\13JNP4.SGM 13JNP4 34033 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 114 / Friday, June 13, 2014 / Unified Agenda rockfish comprise approximately of 245 hectares (606 acres) of marine habitat in Puget Sound. Timetable: Action Date FR Cite NPRM .................. Final Action ......... 08/06/13 08/00/14 78 FR 47635 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Donna Wieting, Fishery Biologist, Office of Protected Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 713–2322. RIN: 0648–BC76 mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS4 86. Amending the Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Plan Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1361 et seq. Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is proposes to amend the Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Plan. These changes are designed to address ongoing right, humpback, and fin whale entanglements resulting in serious injury or mortality. In 2009, the Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Team (Team) agreed on a schedule to develop conservation measures for reducing the risk of serious injury and mortality of large whales that become entangled in vertical lines. In an August 2012 American Lobster Biological Opinion, NMFS committed to publishing a proposed rule to address vertical line entanglements in 2013, and to publish a final rule by April 2014. Unlike the broad-scale management approach taken to address entanglement risks associated with groundlines (rope between trap/pots), the approach for the vertical line rulemaking will focus on reducing the risk of vertical line entanglements in finer-scale high impact areas. Using fishing gear characterization data and whale sightings per unit effort data, NMFS developed a model to determine the cooccurrence of fishing gear density and whale density to serve as a guide in the identification of these high risk areas. Potential measures include: expanding the gear marking scheme to require larger and more frequent marks along the buoy line; increasing the number of traps per trawl based on area fished and miles fished from shore in the northeast; establishing several closures in the northeast for trap/pot fisheries; modifying weak link and breaking strength requirements of buoy lines; and requiring the use of one buoy line with one trap in the southeast. VerDate Mar<15>2010 18:28 Jun 12, 2014 Jkt 232001 Timetable: Action Action Date FR Cite NPRM .................. Notice .................. Final Action ......... 07/16/13 07/24/13 07/00/14 78 FR 42653 78 FR 44536 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Donna Wieting, Fishery Biologist, Office of Protected Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 713–2322. RIN: 0648–BC90 87. Designation of Critical Habitat for the Northwest Atlantic Ocean Loggerhead Sea Turtle DPS and the Determination Regarding Critical Habitat for the North Pacific Ocean Loggerhead DPS Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. Abstract: This action would designate critical habitat for the Loggerhead sea turtle pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended. The loggerhead sea turtle was originally listed worldwide as a threatened species on July 28, 1978. No critical habitat was designated for the loggerhead at that time. On September 22, 2011, NMFS and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service jointly published a final rule revising the loggerheads listing from a single worldwide threatened species to nine Distinct Population Segments. The two Distinct Population Segments occurring in U.S. jurisdiction are the Northwest Atlantic Ocean Distinct Population Segment (range defined as north of the equator, south of 60 N. lat., and west of 40 W. long.) and the North Pacific Ocean Distinct Population Segments (range defined as north of the equator and south of 60 N. lat.). For the 2011 final listing rule, NMFS and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service found designation of critical habitat to be not determinable. This action will satisfy the provisions under the Endangered Species Act requiring critical habitat to be designated for these Distinct Population Segments. Timetable: Action Date FR Cite NPRM .................. Proposed Rule Correction. Notice .................. NPRM Comment Period Reopened. Public Hearing ..... 07/18/13 08/01/13 78 FR 43006 78 FR 46563 08/21/13 09/30/13 78 FR 51705 78 FR 59907 11/04/13 78 FR 65959 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 Date Final Action ......... FR Cite 07/00/14 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Donna Wieting, Fishery Biologist, Office of Protected Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 713–2322. RIN: 0648–BD27 DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC) Long-Term Actions National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) National Marine Fisheries Service 88. Comprehensive Fishery Management Plan for Puerto Rico Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: This comprehensive Puerto Rico Fishery Management Plan will incorporate, and modify as needed, Federal fisheries management measures presently included in each of the existing species-based U.S. Caribbean Fishery Management Plans (Spiny Lobster, Reef Fish, Coral, and Queen Conch Fishery Management Plans) as those measures pertain to Puerto Rico exclusive economic zone waters. The goal of this action is to create a Fishery Management Plan tailored to the specific fishery management needs of Puerto Rico. If approved, this new Puerto Rico Fishery Management Plan, in conjunction with similar comprehensive Fishery Management Plans being developed for each of St. Croix and St. Thomas/St. John, will replace the Spiny Lobster, Reef Fish, Coral and Queen Conch Fishery Management Plans presently governing the commercial and recreational harvest in U.S. Caribbean exclusive economic zone waters. Timetable: Action Date NPRM .................. FR Cite 05/00/15 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Phone: 727 824–5305, Fax: 727 824– 5308, Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BD32 89. Comprehensive Fishery Management Plan for St. Croix Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. E:\FR\FM\13JNP4.SGM 13JNP4 34034 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 114 / Friday, June 13, 2014 / Unified Agenda Abstract: This comprehensive St. Croix Fishery Management Plan will incorporate, and modify as needed, federal fisheries management measures presently included in each of the existing species-based U.S. Caribbean Fishery Management Plans (Spiny Lobster, Reef Fish, Coral, and Queen Conch Fishery Management Plans) as those measures pertain to St. Croix exclusive economic zone waters. The goal of this action is to create a Fishery Management Plan tailored to the specific fishery management needs of St. Croix. If approved, this new St. Croix Fishery Management Plan, in conjunction with similar comprehensive Fishery Management Plans being developed for each of Puerto Rico and St. Thomas/St. John, will replace the Spiny Lobster, Reef Fish, Coral and Queen Conch Fishery Management Plans presently governing the commercial and recreational harvest in U.S. Caribbean exclusive economic zone waters. Timetable: Action Date NPRM .................. FR Cite 05/00/15 mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS4 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Phone: 727 824–5305, Fax: 727 824– 5308, Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BD33 90. Comprehensive Fishery Management Plan for St. Thomas/St. John Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: This comprehensive St. Thomas/St. John Fishery Management Plan will incorporate, and modify as needed, federal fisheries management measures presently included in each of the existing species-based U.S. Caribbean Fishery Management Plans (Spiny Lobster, Reef Fish, Coral, and Queen Conch Fishery Management Plans) as those measures pertain to St. Thomas/St. John exclusive economic zone waters. The goal of this action is to create a Fishery Management Plan tailored to the specific fishery management needs of St. Thomas/St. John. If approved, this new St. Thomas/ St. John Fishery Management Plan, in conjunction with similar comprehensive Fishery Management Plans being developed for each of St. Croix and Puerto Rico, will replace the Spiny Lobster, Reef Fish, Coral and Queen Conch Fishery Management Plans presently governing the commercial and recreational harvest in U.S. Caribbean exclusive economic zone waters. VerDate Mar<15>2010 18:28 Jun 12, 2014 Jkt 232001 Timetable: Action Date NPRM .................. FR Cite 05/00/15 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Phone: 727 824–5305, Fax: 727 824– 5308, Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BD34 91. Designate Critical Habitat for the Hawaiian Insular False Killer Whale Distinct Population Segment Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1533 Abstract: The proposed action, if approved, would designate critical habitat for the Hawaiian insular false killer whale distinct population segment, pursuant to section 4 of the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Proposed critical habitat would only be designated in the main Hawaiian Islands as the Hawaiian insular false killer whales range is restricted from nearshore out to 140 km from the main Hawaiian Islands. Impacts from the designation stem mainly from Federal agencies requirement to consult with National Marine Fisheries Service, under section 7 of the ESA, to insure that any action they carry out, permit (authorize), or fund will not result in the destruction or adverse modification of critical habitat of a listed species. Timetable: Action Date NPRM .................. FR Cite 06/00/15 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Donna Wieting, Phone: 301 713–2322. RIN: 0648–BC45 procedures for the placement of nonreleasable animals and for authorizing the retention of releasable rehabilitated marine mammals for scientific research, enhancement, or public display. Timetable: Action Date FR Cite ANPRM ............... Final Action Comment Period Extended. No Further Action 01/31/08 03/28/08 73 FR 5786 73 FR 16617 02/01/14 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Donna Wieting, Fishery Biologist, Office of Protected Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 713–2322. RIN: 0648–AW22 93. Amendment 14 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fishery Management Plan Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: The purpose of Amendment 14 is primarily to minimize river herring and shad bycatch in the Atlantic mackerel fishery, and implement an effective program for monitoring river herring and shad bycatch in the Mackerel, Squid and Butterfish fisheries. This action implements measures to expand reporting requirements for permit holders, increase at-sea observer coverage, and establish a mortality cap on river herring and shad in the mackerel fishery. This action is being taken because there is concern about the status of river herring and shad stocks throughout their ranges, and a push to reduce all sources of stock mortality, including fishing mortality. Timetable: Action Date FR Cite 06/09/10 08/12/13 75 FR 32745 78 FR 48852 08/29/13 10/11/13 78 FR 53404 92. Marine Mammal Protection Act Stranding Regulation Revisions Notice of Intent .... Notice of Availability. NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. Final Action ......... 02/24/14 79 FR 10029 Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1379; 16 U.S.C. 1382; 16 U.S.C. 1421 Abstract: National Marine Fisheries Service intends to clarify the requirements and procedures for responding to stranded marine mammals and for determining the disposition of rehabilitated marine mammals, which includes the Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC) Completed Actions National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\13JNP4.SGM 13JNP4 34035 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 114 / Friday, June 13, 2014 / Unified Agenda 978 281–9287, Email: john.bullard@ noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–AY26 94. Amendment 5 to the Atlantic Herring Fishery Management Plan Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: The purpose of Amendment 5 is to minimize bycatch in the Atlantic herring fishery, and improve the collection of real-time catch data. Amendment 5 increases observer coverage, improves at-sea sampling, includes measures to reduce net slippage, and includes measures to address bycatch. This action is being taken to more accurately characterize Atlantic herring landings, minimize and monitor bycatch of river herring in the Atlantic herring fishery, and to improve monitoring of Atlantic herring fishing activity in groundfish closed areas. Timetable: Action Date FR Cite Supplemental Notice of Intent. Notice of Availability. NPRM .................. Final Action ......... 12/28/09 74 FR 68576 04/22/13 78 FR 23733 06/03/13 02/13/14 78 FR 33020 79 FR 8785 mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS4 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 978 281–9287, Email: john.bullard@ noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–AY47 95. Regulatory Amendment to Implement a Halibut Catch Sharing Plan for International Pacific Halibut Commission Area 2C and Area 3A Legal Authority: 44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq. Abstract: This regulation implemented a catch sharing plan for the commercial and guided (charter) sport fisheries for Pacific halibut in waters of International Pacific Halibut Commission Regulatory Areas 2C (Southeast Alaska) and 3A (Central Gulf of Alaska). This regulatory amendment established a combined catch limit annually specified by the International Pacific Halibut Commission that is allocated between the commercial and charter halibut fisheries using percentage allocations proposed by the North Pacific Fishery Management Council. This action also implemented annual management measures for the charter halibut fishery that are intended to maintain harvest to the charter allocation, and specified annually by VerDate Mar<15>2010 18:28 Jun 12, 2014 Jkt 232001 the International Pacific Halibut Commission using a process proposed by the Council. This action provides an opportunity for commercial halibut individual fishing quota holders to lease (transfer on an annual basis) halibut individual fishing quotas to charter halibut permit holders as Guided Angler Fish. Timetable: Action Date FR Cite NPRM .................. NRPM Comment Period End. Proposed Rule; Ext. Comments. Comment Period Extended. Second NPRM .... Comment Period Extended. Final Action ......... 07/22/11 09/06/11 76 FR 44156 09/07/11 76 FR 55343 09/21/11 76 FR 55343 06/28/13 07/25/13 78 FR 39122 78 FR 44920 12/12/13 78 FR 75843 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: James Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 709 West Ninth Street, Juneau, AK 99801, Phone: 907 586– 7221, Fax: 907 586–7465, Email: jim.balsiger@noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BA37 96. Fisheries Off West Coast States; Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery; Trawl Rationalization Program; Cost Recovery Program Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: This action implemented a cost recovery program for the Pacific Coast Groundfish Trawl Rationalization Program. Following final action on Amendment 20 to the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery Management Plan by the Pacific Fishery Management Council, National Marine Fisheries Service implemented the trawl rationalization program on January 11, 2011. In accordance with the MagnusonStevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, the Secretary of Commerce is required to collect a fee to recover the actual costs directly related to the management, data collection, and enforcement of any limited access privilege program (LAPP), which includes the trawl rationalization program. The fee will not exceed 3% of the ex-vessel value of the fish harvested under the LAPP. Timetable: Action Date FR Cite NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. 02/01/13 03/18/13 78 FR 7371 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 Action Date FR Cite Final Action ......... 12/11/13 78 FR 75268 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Barry Thom, Deputy Regional Administrator, Northwest Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Building 1, 7600 Sand Point Way NE., Seattle, WA 48115–0070, Phone: 206 526–6150, Fax: 206 526–6426, Email: barry.thom@ noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BB17 97. Amendment 89 to the Gulf of Alaska Groundfish Fishery Management Plan Area Closures for Tanner Crab Protection in Gulf of Alaska Groundfish Fisheries Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1540; 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 3631 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 773 et seq.; Pub. L. 105– 277 ; Pub. L. 106–31 Abstract: This action implemented a closure of a portion of Marmot Bay, northeast of Kodiak Island, to the use of pot and trawl gear (with the exception of pelagic gear used to target pollock) in groundfish fisheries year-round, and requires additional observer coverage (100 percent for trawl vessels and 30 percent for pot vessels) in two areas east of Kodiak Island—the Chiniak Gully and State of Alaska Statistical Area 525702. The closure will reduce bycatch of Tanner crab in Gulf of Alaska groundfish fisheries. These additional observer coverage requirements are expected to be rescinded with the implementation of the restructured Observer Program. This action is necessary to protect stocks of Tanner crab near Kodiak Islands from the effects of using non-pelagic trawl and pot gear used to target groundfish in Marmot Bay and to provide improved estimates of the incidental catch of Tanner crab in two areas east of Kodiak Island by vessels using non-pelagic trawl and pot gear and to accomplish the goals and objectives of the Fishery Management Plan for Groundfish of the Gulf of Alaska. The intended effect of this action is to conserve and manage the fishery resources in the Gulf of Alaska. Timetable: Action Date FR Cite Notice of Availability. Proposed Rule .... Comment Period End. Final Action ......... 06/03/13 78 FR 33040 06/17/13 07/17/13 78 FR 36150 01/16/14 79 FR 2794 E:\FR\FM\13JNP4.SGM 13JNP4 34036 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 114 / Friday, June 13, 2014 / Unified Agenda Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: James Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 709 West Ninth Street, Juneau, AK 99801, Phone: 907 586– 7221, Fax: 907 586–7465, Email: jim.balsiger@noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BB76 98. Amendment to the Vessel Ownership Requirements of the Individual Fishing Quota Program for Fixed-Gear Pacific Halibut and Sablefish Fisheries in and Off of Alaska Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 3631 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 773 et seq.; Pub. L. 108–447 Abstract: This action would implement a regulatory amendment to modify the vessel ownership requirements of the Individual Fishing Quota Program for fixed-gear Pacific halibut and sablefish fisheries in and off of Alaska. This action would require initial recipients of certain classes of quota share to have held a minimum of 20 percent ownership interest in the vessel for at least 12 consecutive months prior to the submission of an application to hire a master for the purposes of fishing an Individual Fishing Quota permit. This action also would temporarily exempt from the 12month ownership requirement an initial recipient whose vessel has been totally lost, as by sinking or fire, or so damaged that the vessel would require at least 60 days of shipyard time to be repaired. This action is necessary to maintain a predominantly owner-operated fishery. Timetable: Date FR Cite NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. Final Action ......... mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS4 Action 10/31/12 11/30/12 77 FR 65843 02/24/14 79 FR 9995 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: James Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 709 West Ninth Street, Juneau, AK 99801, Phone: 907 586– 7221, Fax: 907 586–7465, Email: jim.balsiger@noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BB78 99. Amendment 95 to the Fishery Management Plan For Groundfish of the Gulf of Alaska Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: This action implements Amendment 95 to the Fishery VerDate Mar<15>2010 18:28 Jun 12, 2014 Jkt 232001 Management Plan for Groundfish of the Gulf of Alaska. This action modifies halibut prohibited species catch management in the Gulf of Alaska to establish the Gulf of Alaska halibut prohibited species catch limits in Federal regulation; reduce the Gulf of Alaska halibut prohibited species catch limits for the trawl, hook and line catcher/processor and catcher vessel sectors, and the hook and line demersal shelf rockfish fishery in the Southeast Outside District; and allow two additional options for vessels to better maintain groundfish harvest while achieving the halibut prohibited species catch reduction of this action. Timetable: Action Date FR Cite Notice .................. NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. Final Action ......... 08/29/13 09/17/13 10/17/13 78 FR 53419 78 FR 57106 02/20/14 79 FR 9625 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: James Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 709 West Ninth Street, Juneau, AK 99801, Phone: 907 586– 7221, Fax: 907 586–7465, Email: jim.balsiger@noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BC39 100. 2013 Monkfish Emergency Action Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: At its November 2012 meeting, the New England Fishery Management Council requested that the Secretary of Commerce implement this Emergency action to eliminate monkfish possession limits in the Northern Fishery Management Area during fishing year 2013 due to the substantially reduced groundfish catch limits. This action eliminated monkfish possession limits for the vessels that have been issued both a limited access monkfish permit and a Northeast multispecies (groundfish) permit and are simultaneously using both a monkfish and a groundfish day-at-sea in the Northern Fishery Management Area (Management Area). By eliminating the possession limits in these specific cases, this action increased monkfish possession limits for the directed monkfish fishery in the Management Area. It is expected that this action allows some of the directed fishing vessels to land more monkfish per trip, which would result in an increase in revenue for such vessels. Timetable: PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 Action Date FR Cite NPRM .................. Interim Final Rule Final Action ......... 02/25/13 04/30/13 10/25/13 78 FR 12708 78 FR 25214 78 FR 63892 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 978 281–9287, Email: john.bullard@ noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BC79 101. Framework Adjustment 50 to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: Framework 50 set catch limits for groundfish stocks for 2013 through 2015, as well as catch limits for the U.S./Canada stocks for 2013. The Council recommended a catch limit of 1,150 mt for Georges Bank yellowtail flounder, which is inconsistent with scientific advice. As a result, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries implemented a 500 mt quota which is consistent with the best scientific information available. NOAA Fisheries also addressed the carryover issue in this rulemaking, specifically, reducing the amount of Gulf of Maine cod that sector vessels can carry over to prevent overfishing. Timetable: Action Date NPRM .................. Interim Final Rule Adjustments ........ Final Rule ............ Final Action ......... 03/29/13 05/03/13 06/11/13 08/29/13 10/30/13 FR Cite 78 78 78 78 78 FR FR FR FR FR 19368 26171 34928 53397 64889 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 978 281–9287, Email: john.bullard@ noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BC97 102. Amendment 102 to the FMP for Groundfish of the BSAI To Establish a Community Quota Entity Program in the Aleutian Islands and a Regulatory Amendment To Allow IFQ Derived From Category D Quota Share Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 773 et seq. E:\FR\FM\13JNP4.SGM 13JNP4 34037 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 114 / Friday, June 13, 2014 / Unified Agenda Abstract: Amendment 102 would create a Community Quota Entity Program in Individual Fishing Quota (IFQ) regulatory area 4B in the Aleutian Islands, similar to the existing Community Quota Entity Program in the Gulf of Alaska. Amendment 102 would allow eligible communities in Area 4B to establish a designated non-profit entity as a Community Quota Entity to purchase halibut and sablefish catcher vessel quota shares in order to provide economic benefits to the community. Timetable: Action Date FR Cite Notice .................. NPRM .................. Final Action ......... 11/01/13 11/14/13 02/14/14 78 FR 65602 78 FR 68390 79 FR 8870 mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS4 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: James Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 709 West Ninth Street, Juneau, AK 99801, Phone: 907 586– 7221, Fax: 907 586–7465, Email: jim.balsiger@noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BD03 103. Amendment 2 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Queen Conch Resources of Puerto Rico and the USVI: Compatibility of Trip and Bag Limits in the Management Area of St. Croix, USVI Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: This regulatory amendment addressed the incompatibility between certain Federal and USVI regulations related to the harvest of queen conch. Fishing and possessing queen conch in the exclusive economic zone is only allowed in the area of Lang Bank, to the east of St. Croix, USVI. However, current regulations regarding commercial trip limits and recreational bag limits for the harvest of queen conch in Federal waters were not compatible with USVI regulations. The USVI had expressed interest in having Federal regulations modified to make them compatible with the territorial limits to facilitate enforcement efforts, enhance compliance by fishers, and allow for more efficient management of queen conch resources in the U.S. Caribbean. In this regulatory amendment, the Caribbean Fishery Management Council chose to modify the commercial trip limit, but leave the recreational bag limit unchanged. Thus, the rule changed the commercial trip limit from 150 queen conch per licensed commercial fisher per day, to 200 queen conch per vessel per day, regardless of the number of licensed commercial fishers onboard. VerDate Mar<15>2010 18:28 Jun 12, 2014 Jkt 232001 Timetable: Action Date FR Cite NPRM .................. Final Action ......... 06/07/13 09/12/13 78 FR 34310 78 FR 56171 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 727 824–5305, Fax: 727 824–5308, Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BD15 104. Framework Adjustment 2 to the Atlantic Herring Fishery Management Plan and Management Measures for Atlantic Herring for the 2013–2015 Fishing Years Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: Framework 2 allows the Council to use the specifications process to split annual catch limits seasonally (by month) for the Atlantic herring management areas. This increases operational flexibility within the herring fishery by allowing for more precise tailoring of the catch limits for each management area. Framework 2 also implemented a policy for authorizing annual carryover of unharvested herring annual catch limits under specific conditions. This will provide increased opportunity to fish for unused herring annual catch limit amounts from the previous year. Combined, these measures provide a greater opportunity to adjust for specific stock conditions. The Atlantic herring fishery specifications are annual catch amounts (for the 2013–2015 fishing years, January-December). These specifications are routine, and are set for a duration of three years. These specifications will retain or increase the current catch limit levels, and will continue to prevent overfishing of the herring resource and achieve optimum yield. Further, the catch limits established in these specifications set a constant catch amount available to the industry that provides a stable allowable catch for 3year business planning purposes. Timetable: Action Date FR Cite NPRM .................. Final Rule ............ Final Action ......... 08/02/13 10/04/13 10/22/13 78 FR 46897 78 FR 61828 78 FR 62471 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 978 281–9287, Email: john.bullard@ noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BD17 105. Joint for-Hire Generic Reporting Amendment for the South Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: This action requires headboat vessel operators to submit electronic fishing records (via computer or internet) rather than paper logbooks for the South Atlantic snapper-grouper, dolphin wahoo, and coastal migratory pelagics fisheries. It also gives NMFS the flexibility to modify the reporting frequency, via notice, if this becomes necessary in the future. Electronic reporting allows for more timely data collection, which would help with tracking recreational annual catch limits and preventing annual catch limits overages. Timetable: Action Date FR Cite Notice .................. NPRM .................. Final Action ......... 09/18/13 09/27/13 12/27/13 78 FR 57339 78 FR 59641 78 FR 78779 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 727 824–5305, Fax: 727 824–5308, Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BD21 106. Modification of Vessel Monitoring System Requirements for Atlantic Highly Migratory Species Fisheries Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 971 et seq. Abstract: This rule modified the requirements concerning the use of Electronic Mobile Transmitting Unit (E– MTU) Vessel Monitoring Systems (VMS) units in Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS) fisheries. The rule modified the requirements for providing hail-in/hail-out declarations depending on whether the vessel is fishing for HMS. The rule also modified when the VMS unit must be on and activated. The revised regulations provide additional flexibility for vessel operators while continuing to provide the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Office of Law Enforcement (NOAA OLE) with E:\FR\FM\13JNP4.SGM 13JNP4 34038 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 114 / Friday, June 13, 2014 / Unified Agenda enhanced communication with HMS vessels at sea, improve enforcement capabilities of current regulations, and provide a secondary safety capability. Timetable: Action Date FR Cite NPRM .................. Final Action ......... 08/29/13 11/15/13 78 FR 53397 78 FR 68757 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Room 13362, 1315 EastWest Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 713–2334, Fax: 301 713–0596, Email: alan.risenhoover@ noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BD24 107. Abbreviated Framework Action To Establish Funding Responsibilities for the Electronic Logbook Program in the Shrimp Fishery of the Gulf of Mexico mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS4 Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq. Abstract: Amendment 13 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Shrimp Fishery of the Gulf of Mexico United States Waters established the requirement for the shrimp electronic logbook program. This action established a cost-sharing program that would allow NMFS to cover the costs of software development, data storage, effort estimation analysis, and archival activities, while the fishing industry would cover the costs of installing and maintaining the units and data transmission from the units to a NOAA server. A grant program has already VerDate Mar<15>2010 18:28 Jun 12, 2014 Jkt 232001 covered the initial costs to purchase the new electronic logbook units for each of the shrimp permit holders in the Gulf. Timetable: Action Date FR Cite NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. Final Action ......... 10/22/13 11/06/13 78 FR 62579 12/27/13 78 FR 78776 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 727 824–5305, Fax: 727 824–5308, Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov. RIN: 0648–BD41 108. Eliminate the Expiration Date Contained in the Final Rule To Reduce the Threat of Ship Collisions With North Atlantic Right Whales Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1361 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. Abstract: In 2008, National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) promulgated a regulation designed to reduce the likelihood of deaths and serious injuries to endangered North Atlantic right whales that result from collisions with ships. The rule implemented speed restrictions of no more than 10 knots applying to all vessels 65 feet long or greater in certain locations and times of the year along the east coast of the United States. To resolve controversy over the rule, NMFS agreed to incorporate a sunset clause under which the rule would expire on December 9, PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 9990 2013. NMFS has been monitoring compliance and effectiveness of the rule and has detected a considerable increase in the rate of compliance with the rule in the third year. There are only approximately 400 remaining North Atlantic right whales, and the rate of encounter is relatively low, so detecting a trend in the rate of ship-strike mortalities will require several additional years of data. NMFS believes the science that supports the rule is sound and that slowing vessels will save whales and contribute to species recovery. Therefore, NMFS published this action to remove the sunset provision and allow the rule to remain in place. Based on an evaluation of recent information, NMFS estimated economic impacts to be considerably less than was originally thought. Timetable: Action Date FR Cite NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. Final Action ......... 06/06/13 08/05/13 78 FR 34024 12/09/13 78 FR 73726 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Donna Wieting, Fishery Biologist, Office of Protected Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 713–2322. RIN: 0648–BB20 [FR Doc. 2014–13114 Filed 6–12–14; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3510–12–P E:\FR\FM\13JNP4.SGM 13JNP4

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 79, Number 114 (Friday, June 13, 2014)]
[Unknown Section]
[Pages 34015-34038]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2014-13114]



[[Page 34015]]

Vol. 79

Friday,

No. 114

June 13, 2014

Part IV





Department of Commerce





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Semiannual Regulatory Agenda

Federal Register / Vol. 79 , No. 114 / Friday, June 13, 2014 / 
Unified Agenda

[[Page 34016]]


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DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

Office of the Secretary

13 CFR Ch. III

15 CFR Subtitle A; Subtitle B, Chs. I, II, III, VII, VIII, IX, and 
XI

19 CFR Ch. III

37 CFR Chs. I, IV, and V

48 CFR Ch. 13

50 CFR Chs. II, III, IV, and VI


Spring 2014 Semiannual Agenda of Regulations

AGENCY: Office of the Secretary, Commerce.

ACTION: Semiannual regulatory agenda.

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

SUMMARY: In compliance with Executive Order 12866, entitled 
``Regulatory Planning and Review,'' and the Regulatory Flexibility Act, 
as amended, the Department of Commerce (Commerce), in the spring and 
fall of each year, publishes in the Federal Register an agenda of 
regulations under development or review over the next 12 months. 
Rulemaking actions are grouped according to prerulemaking, proposed 
rules, final rules, long-term actions, and rulemaking actions completed 
since the fall 2013 agenda. The purpose of the Agenda is to provide 
information to the public on regulations that are currently under 
review, being proposed, or issued by Commerce. The agenda is intended 
to facilitate comments and views by interested members of the public.
    Commerce's spring 2014 regulatory agenda includes regulatory 
activities that are expected to be conducted during the period April 1, 
2014 through March 31, 2015.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
    Specific: For additional information about specific regulatory 
actions listed in the agenda, contact the individual identified as the 
contact person.
    General: Comments or inquiries of a general nature about the agenda 
should be directed to Asha Mathew, Chief Counsel for Regulation, Office 
of the Assistant General Counsel for Legislation and Regulation, U.S. 
Department of Commerce, Washington, DC 20230, telephone: 202-482-3151.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Commerce hereby publishes its spring 2014 
Unified Agenda of Federal Regulatory and Deregulatory Actions pursuant 
to Executive Order 12866 and the Regulatory Flexibility Act, 5 U.S.C. 
601 et seq. Executive Order 12866 requires agencies to publish an 
agenda of those regulations that are under consideration pursuant to 
this order. By memorandum of February 4, 2014, the Office of Management 
and Budget issued guidelines and procedures for the preparation and 
publication of the spring 2014 Unified Agenda. The Regulatory 
Flexibility Act requires agencies to publish, in the spring and fall of 
each year, a regulatory flexibility agenda that contains a brief 
description of the subject of any rule likely to have a significant 
economic impact on a substantial number of small entities, and a list 
that identifies those entries that have been selected for periodic 
review under section 610 of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
    In addition, beginning with the fall 2007 edition, the Internet 
became the basic means for disseminating the Unified Agenda. The 
complete Unified Agenda is available online at www.reginfo.gov, in a 
format that offers users a greatly enhanced ability to obtain 
information from the Agenda database.
    Because publication in the Federal Register is mandated for the 
regulatory flexibility agendas required by the Regulatory Flexibility 
Act, Commerce's printed agenda entries include only:
    (1) Rules that are in the Agency's regulatory flexibility agenda, 
in accordance with the Regulatory Flexibility Act, because they are 
likely to have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of 
small entities; and
    (2) Rules that the Agency has identified for periodic review under 
section 610 of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
    Printing of these entries is limited to fields that contain 
information required by the Regulatory Flexibility Act's Agenda 
requirements. Additional information on these entries is available in 
the Unified Agenda published on the Internet.
    Within Commerce, the Office of the Secretary and various operating 
units may issue regulations. These operating units, the National 
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the Bureau of Industry 
and Security, and the Patent and Trademark Office, issue the greatest 
share of Commerce's regulations.
    A large number of regulatory actions reported in the Agenda deal 
with fishery management programs of NOAA's National Marine Fisheries 
Service (NMFS). To avoid repetition of programs and definitions, as 
well as to provide some understanding of the technical and 
institutional elements of NMFS' programs, an ``Explanation of 
Information Contained in NMFS Regulatory Entries'' is provided below.

Explanation of Information Contained in NMFS Regulatory Entries

    The Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (16 
U.S.C. 1801 et seq.) (the Act) governs the management of fisheries 
within the Exclusive Economic Zone of the United States (EEZ). The EEZ 
refers to those waters from the outer edge of the State boundaries, 
generally 3 nautical miles, to a distance of 200 nautical miles. 
Fishery Management Plans (FMPs) are to be prepared for fisheries that 
require conservation and management measures. Regulations implementing 
these FMPs regulate domestic fishing and foreign fishing where 
permitted. Foreign fishing may be conducted in a fishery in which there 
is no FMP only if a preliminary fishery management plan has been issued 
to govern that foreign fishing. Under the Act, eight Regional Fishery 
Management Councils (Councils) prepare FMPs or amendments to FMPs for 
fisheries within their respective areas. In the development of such 
plans or amendments and their implementing regulations, the Councils 
are required by law to conduct public hearings on the draft plans and 
to consider the use of alternative means of regulating.
    The Council process for developing FMPs and amendments makes it 
difficult for NMFS to determine the significance and timing of some 
regulatory actions under consideration by the Councils at the time the 
semiannual regulatory agenda is published.
    Commerce's spring 2014 regulatory agenda follows.

 Justin Antonipillai,
Acting General Counsel.

[[Page 34017]]



          International Trade Administration--Completed Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
27........................  Modification of Regulation         0625-AA94
                             Regarding the Extension
                             of Time Limits.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


  National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Proposed Rule Stage
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
28........................  Fishery Management Plan            0648-AS65
                             for Regulating Offshore
                             Marine Aquaculture in the
                             Gulf of Mexico.
29........................  Magnuson-Stevens Fishery           0648-AV53
                             Conservation and
                             Management
                             Reauthorization Act
                             (MSRA) Environmental
                             Review Procedure.
30........................  Addendum IV to the                 0648-AY41
                             Weakfish Interstate
                             Management Plan--Bycatch
                             Trip Limit.
31........................  Atlantic Highly Migratory          0648-BA17
                             Species; Future of the
                             Atlantic Shark Fishery.
32........................  Amendment 6 to the                 0648-BA50
                             Monkfish Fishery
                             Management Plan.
33........................  Amendment 22 to the                0648-BA53
                             Fishery Management Plan
                             for the Snapper Grouper
                             Fishery of the South
                             Atlantic Region.
34........................  Implement the 2010 Shark           0648-BB02
                             Conservation Act
                             Provisions and Other
                             Regulations in the
                             Atlantic Smoothhound
                             Shark Fishery.
35........................  Amendment 43 to the FMP            0648-BC34
                             for BSAI King and Tanner
                             Crabs and Amendment 103
                             to the FMP for Groundfish
                             of the BSAI.
36........................  Amendment 3 to the Spiny           0648-BC77
                             Dogfish Fishery
                             Management Plan.
37........................  Pacific Coast Groundfish           0648-BC84
                             Trawl Rationalization
                             Program Trailing Action:
                             Rule to Modify Chafing
                             Gear Regulations for
                             Midwater Trawl Gear Used
                             in the Pacific Coast
                             Groundfish Fishery.
38........................  Inner Limit of the                 0648-BC92
                             Exclusive Economic Zone
                             Under the Magnuson-
                             Stevens Fishery
                             Conservation and
                             Management Act.
39........................  Fisheries Off West Coast           0648-BC95
                             States; West Coast Salmon
                             Fisheries; Amendment 18;
                             Essential Fish Habitat
                             Descriptions for Pacific
                             Salmon.
40........................  Vessel Monitoring Systems;         0648-BD02
                             Specification of
                             Requirements for Mobile
                             Transmitting Unit Type
                             Approval.
41........................  Regulatory Amendment 14 to         0648-BD07
                             the Fishery Management
                             Plan for the Snapper-
                             Grouper Fishery of the
                             South Atlantic Region.
42........................  Amendment 5 to the Fishery         0648-BD08
                             Management Plan for the
                             Dolphin Wahoo Fishery of
                             the Atlantic.
43........................  Amendment 5b to the Highly         0648-BD22
                             Migratory Species Fishery
                             Management Plan.
44........................  Amendment 105 Bering Sea           0648-BD23
                             Flatfish Harvest
                             Specifications
                             Flexibility.
45........................  Amendment 39 to the                0648-BD25
                             Fishery Management Plan
                             for the Reef Fish
                             Resources of the Gulf of
                             Mexico.
46........................  International Fisheries;           0648-BD44
                             Western and Central
                             Pacific Fisheries for
                             Highly Migratory Species;
                             Fishing Restrictions
                             Regarding the Oceanic
                             Whitetip Shark and the
                             Whale Shark.
47........................  Southern New England               0648-BD45
                             Effort Controls to
                             Address Lobster Stock
                             Rebuilding Measures.
48........................  Amendment 97 to the                0648-BD48
                             Fishery Management Plan
                             for Groundfish of the
                             Gulf of Alaska to
                             Establish Chinook Salmon
                             Prohibited Species Catch
                             Limits for the Non-
                             Pollock Trawl Fisheries.
49........................  Implementation of the              0648-BD53
                             Inter-American Tropical
                             Tuna Commission
                             Resolution for the
                             Conservation of Whale
                             Sharks and the Collection
                             and Analyses of Data on
                             Fish Aggregating Devices.
50........................  Framework Adjustment 8 to          0648-BD56
                             the Monkfish Fishery
                             Management Plan.
51........................  South Atlantic Coastal             0648-BD58
                             Migratory Pelagics
                             Framework Action 2013
                             (Section 610 Review).
52........................  Implementation of a                0648-BD59
                             Program for
                             Transshipments by Large
                             Scale Fishing Vessels in
                             the Eastern Pacific Ocean.
53........................  Amendment 45 to the                0648-BD61
                             Fishery Management Plan
                             for Bering Sea and
                             Aleutian Islands King and
                             Tanner Crab Freezer
                             Longline Catcher/
                             Processor Pacific Cod
                             Sideboard Removal.
54........................  Information Collection             0648-BD64
                             Program for Atlantic
                             Surfclam and Ocean Quahog
                             Fisheries.
55........................  Red Snapper Allocation--           0648-BD68
                             Amendment 28 to the
                             Fishery Management Plan
                             for the Reef Fish
                             Resources of the Gulf of
                             Mexico (Section 610
                             Review).
56........................  Amendment 96 to the                0648-BD74
                             Fishery Management Plan
                             for Groundfish of the
                             Gulf of Alaska to Revise
                             the Community Quota
                             Entity Program.
57........................  Amendment 7 to the Fishery         0648-BD76
                             Management Plan for the
                             Dolphin Wahoo Fishery of
                             the Atlantic.
58........................  Regulatory Amendment 16 to         0648-BD78
                             the Fishery Management
                             Plan for the Snapper-
                             Grouper Fishery of the
                             South Atlantic Region.
59........................  Amendment 8 to the Fishery         0648-BD81
                             Management Plan for
                             Coral, Coral Reefs, and
                             Live/Hardbottom Habitats
                             of the South Atlantic
                             Region.
60........................  Amendment 20A to the               0648-BD83
                             Fishery Management Plan
                             for the Coastal Migratory
                             Pelagic Resources of the
                             Gulf of Mexico and
                             Atlantic Region.
61........................  Amendment 100 to the FMP           0648-BD98
                             for Groundfish of the
                             BSAI Management Area and
                             Amendment 91 to the FMP
                             for Groundfish of the
                             Gulf of Alaska to add
                             Grenadiers to the
                             Ecosystem Component
                             Category.
62........................  Framework Adjustment 2 to          0648-BD99
                             the Northeast Skate
                             Complex Fishery
                             Management Plan.
63........................  Marine Mammal Protection           0648-AV82
                             Act Permit Regulation
                             Revisions.
64........................  Designation of Critical            0648-AY54
                             Habitat for the North
                             Atlantic Right Whale.
65........................  Amendment and Updates to           0648-BB37
                             the Bottlenose Dolphin
                             Take Reduction Plan.
66........................  Revisions to Hawaiian              0648-BD97
                             Islands Humpback Whale
                             National Marine Sanctuary
                             Regulations.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 34018]]


    National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Final Rule Stage
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
67........................  American Lobster Fishery;          0648-AT31
                             Fishing Effort Control
                             Measures to Complement
                             Interstate Lobster
                             Management
                             Recommendations by the
                             Atlantic States Marine
                             Fisheries Commission.
68........................  Amendment 7 to the 2006            0648-BC09
                             Consolidated Highly
                             Migratory Species Fishery
                             Management Plan.
69........................  Generic Amendment to               0648-BC12
                             Several Fishery
                             Management Plans in the
                             Gulf of Mexico and South
                             Atlantic Regions to
                             Modify Federally-
                             Permitted Seafood Dealer
                             Reporting Requirements.
70........................  Georges Bank Yellowtail            0648-BC33
                             Flounder Emergency Action
                             to Provide a Partial
                             Exemption from
                             Accountability Measures
                             to the Atlantic Scallop
                             Fishery.
71........................  Modification to the Hired          0648-BC62
                             Skipper Regulations for
                             Management of the
                             Individual Fishing Quota
                             Program for the Fixed-
                             Gear Commercial Fisheries
                             for Pacific Halibut and
                             Sablefish in Waters of
                             Alaska.
72........................  Allowing Northeast                 0648-BD09
                             Multispecies Sector
                             Vessels Access to Year
                             Round Closed Areas.
73........................  Pacific Coast Groundfish           0648-BD30
                             Trawl Rationalization
                             Program Trailing Actions:
                             Permitting Requirements
                             for Observer and Catch
                             Monitor Providers.
74........................  Pacific Coast Groundfish           0648-BD31
                             Trawl Rationalization
                             Program; Second Program
                             Improvement and
                             Enhancement Rule.
75........................  Modifications to the               0648-BD37
                             Pacific Coast Groundfish
                             Trawl Rockfish
                             Conservation Area
                             Boundaries.
76........................  Framework Adjustment 8 to          0648-BD50
                             the Atlantic Mackerel,
                             Squid and Butterfish
                             Fishery Management Plan.
77........................  Implementation of the              0648-BD54
                             Inter-American Tropical
                             Tuna Commission
                             Resolution to Establish a
                             Vessel Monitoring System
                             Program in the Eastern
                             Pacific Ocean.
78........................  Implementation of the              0648-BD55
                             Inter-American Tropical
                             Tuna Commission
                             Resolution to Adopt
                             Conservation and
                             Management Measures for
                             Pacific Bluefin Tuna in
                             the Eastern Pacific Ocean.
79........................  2014 Specifications and            0648-BD65
                             Management Measures for
                             the Atlantic Mackerel,
                             Squid, and Butterfish
                             Fisheries.
80........................  Modifications to                   0648-BD66
                             Identification Markings
                             on Fishing Gear Marker
                             Buoys.
81........................  Pacific Halibut Fisheries;         0648-BD82
                             Catch Sharing Plan.
82........................  Temporary Rule Through             0648-BD87
                             Emergency Action to
                             Revise Annual Catch
                             Limits and Accountability
                             Measures for Blueline
                             Tilefish and the Deep-
                             Water Complex in the
                             South Atlantic Region.
83........................  Revision of Hawaiian Monk          0648-BA81
                             Seal Critical Habitat.
84........................  Endangered and Threatened          0648-BB30
                             Species: Designation of
                             Critical Habitat for
                             Threatened Lower Columbia
                             River Coho Salmon and
                             Puget Sound Steelhead.
85........................  Designation of Critical            0648-BC76
                             Habitat for the Distinct
                             Population Segments of
                             Yelloweye Rockfish,
                             Canary Rockfish, and
                             Bocaccio.
86........................  Amending the Atlantic              0648-BC90
                             Large Whale Take
                             Reduction Plan.
87........................  Designation of Critical            0648-BD27
                             Habitat for the Northwest
                             Atlantic Ocean Loggerhead
                             Sea Turtle DPS and the
                             Determination Regarding
                             Critical Habitat for the
                             North Pacific Ocean
                             Loggerhead DPS.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


   National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Long-Term Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
88........................  Comprehensive Fishery              0648-BD32
                             Management Plan for
                             Puerto Rico.
89........................  Comprehensive Fishery              0648-BD33
                             Management Plan for St.
                             Croix.
90........................  Comprehensive Fishery              0648-BD34
                             Management Plan for St.
                             Thomas/St. John.
91........................  Designate Critical Habitat         0648-BC45
                             for the Hawaiian Insular
                             False Killer Whale
                             Distinct Population
                             Segment.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


   National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Completed Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
92........................  Marine Mammal Protection           0648-AW22
                             Act Stranding Regulation
                             Revisions.
93........................  Amendment 14 to the                0648-AY26
                             Atlantic Mackerel, Squid,
                             and Butterfish Fishery
                             Management Plan.
94........................  Amendment 5 to the                 0648-AY47
                             Atlantic Herring Fishery
                             Management Plan.
95........................  Regulatory Amendment to            0648-BA37
                             Implement a Halibut Catch
                             Sharing Plan for
                             International Pacific
                             Halibut Commission Area
                             2C and Area 3A.
96........................  Fisheries off West Coast           0648-BB17
                             States; Pacific Coast
                             Groundfish Fishery; Trawl
                             Rationalization Program;
                             Cost Recovery Program.
97........................  Amendment 89 to the Gulf           0648-BB76
                             of Alaska Groundfish
                             Fishery Management Plan
                             Area Closures for Tanner
                             Crab Protection in Gulf
                             of Alaska Groundfish
                             Fisheries.
98........................  Amendment to the Vessel            0648-BB78
                             Ownership Requirements of
                             the Individual Fishing
                             Quota Program for Fixed-
                             Gear Pacific Halibut and
                             Sablefish Fisheries in
                             and off of Alaska.
99........................  Amendment 95 to the                0648-BC39
                             Fishery Management Plan
                             for Groundfish of the
                             Gulf of Alaska.
100.......................  2013 Monkfish Emergency            0648-BC79
                             Action.
101.......................  Framework Adjustment 50 to         0648-BC97
                             the Northeast
                             Multispecies Fishery
                             Management Plan.
102.......................  Amendment 102 to the FMP           0648-BD03
                             for Groundfish of the
                             BSAI to Establish a
                             Community Quota Entity
                             Program in the Aleutian
                             Islands and a Regulatory
                             Amendment to Allow IFQ
                             Derived From Category D
                             Quota Share.
103.......................  Amendment 2 to the Fishery         0648-BD15
                             Management Plan for the
                             Queen Conch Resources of
                             Puerto Rico and the USVI:
                             Compatibility of Trip and
                             Bag Limits in the
                             Management Area of St.
                             Croix, USVI.

[[Page 34019]]

 
104.......................  Framework Adjustment 2 to          0648-BD17
                             the Atlantic Herring
                             Fishery Management Plan
                             and Management Measures
                             for Atlantic Herring for
                             the 2013-2015 Fishing
                             Years.
105.......................  Joint For-Hire Generic             0648-BD21
                             Reporting Amendment for
                             the South Atlantic and
                             Gulf of Mexico.
106.......................  Modification of Vessel             0648-BD24
                             Monitoring System
                             Requirements for Atlantic
                             Highly Migratory Species
                             Fisheries.
107.......................  Abbreviated Framework              0648-BD41
                             Action to Establish
                             Funding Responsibilities
                             for the Electronic
                             Logbook Program in the
                             Shrimp Fishery of the
                             Gulf of Mexico.
108.......................  Eliminate the Expiration           0648-BB20
                             Date Contained in the
                             Final Rule to Reduce the
                             Threat of Ship Collisions
                             With North Atlantic Right
                             Whales.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)

Completed Actions

International Trade Administration (ITA)

27. Modification of Regulation Regarding the Extension of Time Limits

    Legal Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301; 19 U.S.C. 1202 note; 19 U.S.C. 1303 
note; 19 U.S.C. et seq.; 19 U.S.C. 3538
    Abstract: A rule to modify 19 CFR 351.302, which concerns the 
extension of time limits for submissions in antidumping and 
countervailing duty proceedings.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Proposed Rule.......................   01/16/13  78 FR 3367
Comment Period End..................   03/18/13  .......................
Final Action........................   09/20/13  78 FR 57790
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Charles Vannatta, Policy Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, International Trade Administration, 1401 Constitution Ave. 
NW., Washington, DC 20230, Phone: 202 482-4036, Email: 
charles.vannatta@trade.gov.
    RIN: 0625-AA94

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)

Proposed Rule Stage

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

National Marine Fisheries Service

28. Fishery Management Plan for Regulating Offshore Marine Aquaculture 
in the Gulf of Mexico

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: The purpose of this fishery management plan is to develop 
a regional permitting process for regulating and promoting 
environmentally sound and economically sustainable aquaculture in the 
Gulf of Mexico exclusive economic zone. This fishery management plan 
consists of ten actions, each with an associated range of management 
alternatives, which would facilitate the permitting of an estimated 5 
to 20 offshore aquaculture operations in the Gulf of Mexico over the 
next 10 years, with an estimated annual production of up to 64 million 
pounds. By establishing a regional permitting process for aquaculture, 
the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council will be positioned to 
achieve their primary goal of increasing maximum sustainable yield and 
optimum yield of federal fisheries in the Gulf of Mexico by 
supplementing harvest of wild caught species with cultured product. 
This rulemaking would outline a regulatory permitting process for 
aquaculture in the Gulf of Mexico, including: (1) Required permits; (2) 
duration of permits; (3) species allowed; (4) designation of sites for 
aquaculture; (5) reporting requirements; and (6) regulations to aid in 
enforcement.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice of Availability..............   06/04/09  74 FR 26829
NOA Comment Period End..............   08/03/09  .......................
NPRM................................   06/00/14  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-AS65

29. Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management 
Reauthorization Act (MSRA) Environmental Review Procedure

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: This rule revises and updates the National Marine 
Fisheries Service procedures for complying with National Environmental 
Protection Act in the context of fishery management actions developed 
pursuant to MSRA.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   05/14/08  73 FR 27998
NPRM Comment Period End.............   06/13/08  .......................
Withdrawal of Proposed Rule.........   06/00/14  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Steve Leathery, Department of Commerce, National 
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver 
Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 713-2239, Email: steve.leathery@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-AV53

30. Addendum IV to the Weakfish Interstate Management Plan--Bycatch 
Trip Limit

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 5101
    Abstract: This action would modify management restrictions in the 
Federal weakfish fishery in a manner consistent with the Atlantic 
States Marine Fisheries Commission Interstate Plan. The proposed change 
would decrease the incidental catch allowance for weakfish in the 
exclusive economic zone in non-directed fisheries using smaller mesh 
sizes, from 150 pounds to no more than 100 pounds per day or trip, 
whichever is longer in duration. In addition, it would impose a one 
fish possession limit on recreational fishers.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   05/12/10  75 FR 26703
NPRM Comment Period End.............   06/11/10  .......................
NPRM Comment Period Re-opened.......   06/16/10  75 FR 34092
Comment Period End..................   06/30/10  .......................

[[Page 34020]]

 
Next Stage Undetermined.............   08/00/14  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, Room 13362, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 
20910, Phone: 301 713-2334, Fax: 301 713-0596, Email: 
alan.risenhoover@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-AY41

31. Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Future of the Atlantic Shark 
Fishery

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 971 et seq.
    Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service is considering 
adjusting the regulations governing the U.S. Atlantic shark fishery to 
address current fishery issues and to identify specific shark fishery 
goals for the future. This action will discuss potential changes to the 
quota and/or permit structure that are currently in place for the 
Atlantic shark fishery, and various catch share programs such as 
limited access privilege programs, individual fishing quotas, and 
sectors for the Atlantic shark fishery.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
ANPRM...............................   09/20/10  75 FR 57235
ANPRM Comment Period End............   01/14/11  .......................
NPRM................................   09/00/14  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, Room 13362, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 
20910, Phone: 301 713-2334, Fax: 301 713-0596, Email: 
alan.risenhoover@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BA17

32. Amendment 6 to the Monkfish Fishery Management Plan

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: The purpose of Amendment 6 to the Monkfish Fishery 
Management Plan is to consider developing a catch share management 
program for this fishery. This would very likely also involve the 
development of a referendum for such a program as required under the 
Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice of Intent to Prepare an EIS..   11/30/10  75 FR 74005
Next Stage Undetermined.............   03/00/15  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 
978 281-9287, Email: john.bullard@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BA50

33. Amendment 22 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Snapper Grouper 
Fishery of the South Atlantic Region

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: The red snapper stock in the South Atlantic was assessed 
through the Southeast, Data, Assessment, and Review process in 2008 and 
2010. The assessments indicate that the stock is experiencing 
overfishing and is overfished. As a result of the 2008 assessment, 
fishing for red snapper has been prohibited in Federal waters off the 
south Atlantic states since January 4, 2010. In Amendment 22, the 
National Marine Fisheries Service and the South Atlantic Fishery 
Management Council are considering alternatives to change the current 
harvest restrictions on red snapper as the stock increases in biomass. 
Examples of measures under consideration include the implementation of 
red snapper trip limits, bag limits, a catch share program, tag 
program, temporal and spatial closures including those to protect 
spawning stocks, and gear prohibitions.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice of Intent....................   01/03/11  76 FR 101
Notice of Intent Comment Period End.   02/14/11  .......................
NPRM................................   03/00/15  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BA53

34. Implement the 2010 Shark Conservation Act Provisions and Other 
Regulations in the Atlantic Smoothhound Shark Fishery

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: This rule considers implementing the provisions of the 
2010 Shark Conservation Act and other regulations in the Atlantic 
Smoothhound Fishery (which includes smooth dogfish and the Florida 
smoothhound). Specifically, this action would: (1) Modify regulations 
for smooth dogfish as needed to be consistent with the Shark 
Conservation Act; (2) consider other management measures, as needed, 
including the terms and conditions of the Endangered Species Act 
Smoothhound Biological Opinion; and (3) consider revising the current 
smoothhound shark quota based on updated catch data.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   06/00/14  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, Room 13362, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 
20910, Phone: 301 713-2334, Fax: 301 713-0596, Email: 
alan.risenhoover@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BB02

35. Amendment 43 to the FMP for BSAI King and Tanner Crabs and 
Amendment 103 to the FMP for Groundfish of the BSAI

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801
    Abstract: This rule would implement both Amendment 43 to the 
Fishery Management Plan for Bering Sea/Aleutian Islands King and Tanner 
Crabs and Amendment 103 to the Fishery Management Plan for Groundfish 
of the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands Management Area. Amendment 43 
revises the current rebuilding plan for Pribilof Islands blue king crab 
(blue king crab) and Amendment 103 implements groundfish fishing 
restrictions. A no-trawl Pribilof Islands Habitat Conservation Zone 
(Zone) was established in 1995 and the directed fishery for blue king 
crab has been closed since 1999. A rebuilding plan was implemented in 
2003; however, blue king crab remains overfished and the current 
rebuilding plan has not achieved adequate progress towards

[[Page 34021]]

rebuilding the stock by 2014. The rule would close the Zone to all 
Pacific cod pot fishing in addition to the current trawl prohibition. 
This measure would help support blue king crab rebuilding and prevent 
exceeding the overfishing limit of blue king crab by minimizing to the 
extent practical blue king crab bycatch in the groundfish fisheries.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   06/00/14  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: James Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 709 West Ninth Street, Juneau, AK 99801, Phone: 907 
586-7221, Fax: 907 586-7465, Email: jim.balsiger@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BC34

36. Amendment 3 to the Spiny Dogfish Fishery Management Plan

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: The action would make four modifications to the 
management measures in the Spiny Dogfish Fishery Management Plan. These 
include allowing up to 3 percent of the annual quota to be set aside 
for research purposes (research set-aside), updating the essential fish 
habitat definitions for spiny dogfish, allowing the previous year's 
management measures to be carried over into the subsequent year in the 
case of rulemaking delays, and removing the seasonal allocation of the 
commercial quota. The action is needed to improve the efficiency of the 
Spiny Dogfish Fishery Management Plan, and help reduce misalignment of 
regulations with the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission's 
Interstate Fishery Management Plan for spiny dogfish.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   06/00/14  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 
978 281-9287, Email: john.bullard@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BC77

37. Pacific Coast Groundfish Trawl Rationalization Program Trailing 
Action: Rule To Modify Chafing Gear Regulations for Midwater Trawl Gear 
Used in the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: This action would modify the existing chafing gear 
regulations for midwater trawl gear, and includes housekeeping measures 
to clarify which vessels can use midwater trawl gear and where midwater 
trawl gear can be used. This action includes regulations that affect 
all trawl sectors (Shorebased Individual Fishing Quota Program, 
Mothership Cooperative Program, Catcher/Processor Cooperative Program, 
and tribal fishery) managed under the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery 
Management Plan.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   06/00/14  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Barry Thom, Deputy Regional Administrator, 
Northwest Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, Building 1, 7600 Sand Point Way NE., 
Seattle, WA 48115-0070, Phone: 206 526-6150, Fax: 206 526-6426, Email: 
barry.thom@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BC84

38. Inner Limit of the Exclusive Economic Zone Under the Magnuson-
Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: This action would define the term ``inner limit of the 
exclusive economic zone'' under the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery 
Conservation and Management Act (MSA). The MSA establishes sovereign 
rights and exclusive management authority over fishery resources of the 
U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone. The inner limit of the Exclusive Economic 
Zone is described as a line coterminous with the seaward boundary of 
each of the coastal states. National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), 
as well as the U.S. Coast Guard and state partners, enforce Federal 
fishery regulations on the basis of the 3 nautical mile line as it is 
represented on National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) 
charts. The use of 3 nautical mile line has caused confusion when NOAA 
charts are updated because the baseline for establishing this line is 
ambulatory. NMFS proposes to clarify/correct this by defining this 
seaward boundary line to be a line established pursuant to the 
Submerged Lands Act.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Next Stage Undetermined.............   03/00/15  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, Room 13362, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 
20910, Phone: 301 713-2334, Fax: 301 713-0596, Email: 
alan.risenhoover@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BC92

39. Fisheries Off West Coast States; West Coast Salmon Fisheries; 
Amendment 18; Essential Fish Habitat Descriptions for Pacific Salmon

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: The action would implement Amendment 18 to the Pacific 
Coast Salmon Fishery Management Plan. The purpose of the amendment is 
to address revisions to the Pacific coast salmon essential fish habitat 
provisions under the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and 
Management Act.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   06/00/14  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: William Stelle Jr., Regional Administrator West 
Coast Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way Northeast, Seattle, WA 98115, 
Phone: 206 526-6150.
    RIN: 0648-BC95

40. Vessel Monitoring Systems; Specification of Requirements for Mobile 
Transmitting Unit Type Approval

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: All vessels participating in a National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration Vessel Monitoring System program are 
required to acquire a National Marine Fisheries Service-approved mobile 
transmitting unit to comply with the Vessel Monitoring System 
requirements. Previously, this action was only taken through the 
publication of a notice in the Federal Register. However, this rule 
will establish the type-approval standards,

[[Page 34022]]

specifications, and procedures that vendors may reference to maintain 
type-approval for their products and/or services. This action will 
establish type-approval standards for the initial approval, subsequent 
assessments, and the procedures for rescinding the type-approval if the 
vendor fails to comply with the performance standards. This action is 
necessary to ensure Vessel Monitoring System vendors continue to meet 
minimum performance standards over the long term.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   06/00/14  .......................
Final Action........................   08/00/14  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, Room 13362, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 
20910, Phone: 301 713-2334, Fax: 301 713-0596, Email: 
alan.risenhoover@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BD02

41. Regulatory Amendment 14 to the Fishery Management Plan for the 
Snapper-Grouper Fishery of the South Atlantic Region

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: The purpose of Regulatory Amendment 14 is to enhance 
socioeconomic benefits to fishermen and fishing communities that 
utilize the snapper-grouper fishery. Specifically, this rulemaking 
modifies the fishing year for greater amberjack, increases the minimum 
size limit for hogfish, modify the fishing year for black sea bass, 
changes the commercial fishing season for vermilion snapper, modifies 
the aggregate grouper bag limit, and revises the accountability 
measures for gag and vermilion snapper. Modifying the accountability 
measures for gag and vermilion snapper would enhance consistency and 
accuracy in the approach taken when the annual catch limit is met or 
projected to be met for these species.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice..............................   04/17/13  78 FR 22846
Notice..............................   08/02/13  78 FR 46925
NPRM................................   06/00/14  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BD07

42. Amendment 5 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Dolphin Wahoo 
Fishery of the Atlantic

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: Amendment 5 to the Dolphin Wahoo Fishery Management Plan 
includes revisions to the acceptable biological catches, annual catch 
limits, recreational annual catch targets, and accountability measures 
for dolphin and wahoo; modifications to the framework procedure; and 
modifications to the sector allocations and trip limits for dolphin. 
The revisions incorporate updates to the recreational data as per the 
Marine Recreational Information Program, as well as revisions to 
commercial and for-hire landings. The revisions are necessary to avoid 
triggering accountability measures for dolphin and wahoo based on 
recreational data under the Marine Recreational Fisheries Statistics 
Survey system. National Marine Fisheries Service no longer uses the 
Marine Recreational Fisheries Statistics Survey system, and now 
estimates recreational landings using the Marine Recreational 
Information Program. Additionally, this amendment would modify the 
framework procedure for dolphin and wahoo; modify sector allocations 
and adjust trip limits for dolphin.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice..............................   02/28/14  79 FR 11383
NPRM................................   06/00/14  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BD08

43. Amendment 5B to the Highly Migratory Species Fishery Management 
Plan

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 971 et seq.
    Abstract: This rulemaking would propose management measures for 
dusky sharks, based on a recent stock assessment, taking into 
consideration comments received on the proposed rule and Amendment 5 to 
the 2006 Consolidated Highly Migratory Species Fishery Management Plan. 
This rulemaking could consider a range of commercial and recreational 
management measures in both directed and incidental shark fisheries 
including, among other things, gear modifications, time/area closures, 
permitting, shark identification requirements, and reporting 
requirements. NMFS determined that dusky sharks are still overfished 
and still experiencing overfishing and originally proposed management 
measures to end overfishing and rebuild dusky sharks in a proposed rule 
for Draft Amendment 5 to the 2006 Consolidated Atlantic Highly 
Migratory Species Fishery Management Plan. That proposed rule also 
contained management measures for scalloped hammerhead, sandbar, 
blacknose and Gulf of Mexico blacktip sharks. NMFS decided to move 
forward with Draft Amendment 5's management measures for scalloped 
hammerhead, sandbar, blacknose and Gulf of Mexico blacktip sharks in a 
final rule and final amendment that will now be referred to as 
``Amendment 5a'' to the 2006 Consolidated Atlantic Highly Migratory 
Species Fishery Management Plan. Dusky shark management measures will 
be addressed in this separate, but related, action and will be referred 
to as ``Amendment 5b''.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   11/00/14  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, Room 13362, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 
20910, Phone: 301 713-2334, Fax: 301 713-0596, Email: 
alan.risenhoover@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BD22

44. Amendment 105 Bering Sea Flatfish Harvest Specifications 
Flexibility

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: This action intends to provide additional harvest 
opportunities to participants in Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands (BSAI) 
flatfish fisheries while (1) maintaining catch below the annual catch 
limits for these species, and (2) ensuring that the maximum optimum 
yield for BSAI groundfish fisheries will not be exceeded.

[[Page 34023]]

Specifically, Amendment 105 to the BSAI Fishery Management Plan would 
establish a process for Amendment 80 cooperatives and Western Alaska 
Community Development Quota groups to exchange harvest quota from one 
of the three flatfish species for an equivalent amount of quota of 
another species. In no case could the amount of fish exchanged exceed 
the annual catch limit, commonly known as the allowable biological 
catch, of that species. This action would modify the annual harvest 
specification process to allow the North Pacific Fishery Management 
Council (Council) to establish the maximum amount of harvest quota that 
can be exchanged for each of the three flatfish species. This process 
would allow the Council to establish a buffer below the allowable 
biological catch to account for management or socioeconomic 
considerations. Each participant could only exchange harvest quota up 
to three times per year. This action is intended to promote the goals 
and objectives of the BSAI Fishery Management Plan, the Magnuson-
Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, and other applicable 
laws.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   06/00/14  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: James Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 709 West Ninth Street, Juneau, AK 99801, Phone: 907 
586-7221, Fax: 907 586-7465, Email: jim.balsiger@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BD23

45. Amendment 39 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish 
Resources of the Gulf of Mexico

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: The purpose of this action is to facilitate management of 
the recreational red snapper component in the reef fish fishery by 
reorganizing the federal fishery management strategy to better account 
for biological, social, and economic differences among the regions of 
the Gulf of Mexico. Regional management would enable regions and their 
associated communities to specify the optimal management parameters 
that best meet the needs of their local constituents thereby addressing 
regional socio-economic concerns.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice..............................   05/13/13  78 FR 27956
NPRM................................   03/00/15  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BD25

46. International Fisheries; Western and Central Pacific Fisheries for 
Highly Migratory Species; Fishing Restrictions Regarding the Oceanic 
Whitetip Shark and the Whale Shark

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 6901 et seq.
    Abstract: The rule would establish regulations under authority of 
the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Convention Implementation Act 
to implement decisions of the Commission for the Conservation and 
Management of Highly Migratory Fish Stocks in the Western and Central 
Pacific Ocean on fishing restrictions regarding the oceanic whitetip 
shark and the whale shark. The regulations would apply to owners and 
operators of U.S. fishing vessels used for commercial fishing for 
highly migratory species in the area of application of the Convention 
on the Conservation and Management of Highly Migratory Fish Stocks in 
the Western and Central Pacific Ocean (Convention). The regulations for 
oceanic whitetip sharks would prohibit the retention, transshipment, 
storage, or landing of oceanic whitetip sharks and would require the 
release of any oceanic whitetip shark as soon as possible after it is 
caught. The regulations for whale sharks would prohibit setting a purse 
seine on a whale shark and would specify certain measures to be taken 
and reporting requirements in the event a whale shark is encircled in a 
purse seine net. This action is necessary for the United States to 
satisfy its obligations under the Convention, to which it is a 
Contracting Party.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   06/00/14  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Michael Tosatto, Regional Administrator for the 
Pacific Islands Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Suite 1110, 
Honolulu, HI 96814, Phone: 808 944-2281.
    RIN: 0648-BD44

47. Southern New England Effort Controls To Address Lobster Stock 
Rebuilding Measures

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: NMFS is considering to make revisions to Federal American 
lobster regulations intended to assist in rebuilding the Southern New 
England lobster stock. The proposed measures include trap reductions in 
Lobster Management Areas 2 and 3, a minimum carapace size increase for 
Lobster Management Area 3, mandatory v-notching of egg-bearing female 
lobster in Lobster Management Areas 2, 4, and 5, and seasonal closures 
in Lobster Management Areas 4, 5, and 6. These actions are recommended 
for Federal implementation by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries 
Commission (Commission). The proposed stock rebuilding measures were 
recommended by the Commission in consultation with some, but not all, 
Federal lobster permit holders through associated industry 
participation on the Commissions Lobster Conservation Management Teams. 
While this action could limit fishing effort and landings by Federal 
lobster permit holders in Southern New England, the proposed measures 
are consistent with those already implemented by the affected states.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
ANPRM...............................   08/20/13  78 FR 51131
NPRM................................   06/00/14  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 
978 281-9287, Email: john.bullard@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BD45

48. Amendment 97 to the Fishery Management Plan for Groundfish of the 
Gulf of Alaska To Establish Chinook Salmon Prohibited Species Catch 
Limits for the Non-Pollock Trawl Fisheries

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 773 et seq.
    Abstract: This rule would limit Chinook salmon prohibited species 
catch in the Western and Central Gulf of Alaska non-pollock trawl 
fisheries.

[[Page 34024]]

Chinook salmon is a fully utilized species in Alaska coastal 
subsistence, recreational, and commercial fisheries. In recent years 
the returns of Chinook salmon to some Alaska river systems have been 
below the biological escapement goals established by the State of 
Alaska. This action is necessary to minimize the catch of Chinook 
salmon to the extent practicable in the Gulf of Alaska non-pollock 
trawl fisheries. The rule would establish a 7,500 Chinook salmon 
prohibited species annual limit that would be seasonally apportioned 
among fishing vessel sectors. If a sector reached its Chinook salmon 
prohibited species limit, further directed fishing for groundfish by 
vessels in that sector and season would be prohibited. Vessel operators 
would be required to retain salmon until the number of salmon has been 
determined by the vessel or plant observer and the observers data 
collection has been completed. About 70 vessels could be affected by 
this action. This action could reduce revenues from the fisheries, if 
the Chinook salmon prohibited species limit is reached before the 
groundfish quota is harvested. The action may also increase costs if 
vessel operators move fishing operations or take other actions to lower 
their catch of Chinook salmon.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   06/00/14  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: James Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 709 West Ninth Street, Juneau, AK 99801, Phone: 907 
586-7221, Fax: 907 586-7465, Email: jim.balsiger@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BD48

49. Implementation of the Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission 
Resolution for the Conservation of Whale Sharks and the Collection and 
Analyses of Data on Fish Aggregating Devices

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 951 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 961 et seq.; 16 
U.S.C. 971 et seq.
    Abstract: This rule would implement the Inter-American Tropical 
Tuna Commissions Resolution intended to conserve whale sharks and 
collect information on fish aggregating devices. This action would 
require that by July 1, 2014, owners and operators of purse seine 
vessels in the eastern Pacific Ocean would be prohibited from setting a 
purse seine on a school of tuna associated with a live whale shark, if 
the shark is sighted prior to the beginning of the set. If a whale 
shark is encircled in the purse seine net the master of the vessel 
would be required to ensure that all reasonable steps are taken to 
ensure its safe release and report the details of the incident to the 
Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission and NMFS. By January 1, 2015, 
owners and operators of purse seine vessels operating in the Inter-
American Tropical Tuna Commission Convention area when fishing on fish 
aggregating devices would be required to collect and report the fish 
aggregating devices location and type. The data may be collected 
through a dedicated logbook, modifications to existing regional 
logsheets, or other domestic reporting procedures.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   06/00/14  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: William Stelle Jr., Regional Administrator West 
Coast Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way Northeast, Seattle, WA 98115, 
Phone: 206 526-6150.
    RIN: 0648-BD53

50. Framework Adjustment 8 to the Monkfish Fishery Management Plan

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: Framework Adjustment 8 would specify acceptable 
biological catch amounts, and annual catch limits, for the monkfish 
fishery during fishing years 2014-2016, based on an updated stock 
assessment completed in April 2013. This action would also set monkfish 
days-at-sea allocations and trip limits for both the Northern and 
Southern Fishery Management Areas to achieve recommended annual catch 
targets. In addition, this action would allow vessels issued a limited 
access monkfish Category H permit to fish throughout the Southern 
Fishery Management Area. Both the directed and incidental monkfish 
fisheries would be affected by this action. Specifically, Category H 
vessels would be provided with greater flexibility to fish for monkfish 
in a broader geographical area. Since the fishery has not fully 
harvested available quotas in recent years, it is not expected that 
potential increases or decreases in catch allowances are likely to have 
a substantial economic effect.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   06/00/14  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 
978 281-9287, Email: john.bullard@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BD56

51. South Atlantic Coastal Migratory Pelagics Framework Action 2013 
(Section 610 Review)

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: Currently in the South Atlantic, transfer of harvested 
fish at sea is prohibited for any species under a commercial trip 
limit, and only two gillnets are allowed on a federally permitted 
Spanish mackerel vessel. In some instances the trip limit may be 
exceeded with just one gillnet set, and the excess fish must be 
discarded. Most discarded fish caught in gillnet gear die due to trauma 
caused during capture. The Framework Action would allow a portion of a 
gillnet and its contents to be transferred from a vessel that has met 
the Spanish mackerel trip limit to another vessel that has not yet 
reached the trip limit. Allowing transfer at sea for federally 
permitted Spanish mackerel vessels using gillnet gear is intended to 
reduce dead discards, and minimize waste when catch in one net exceeds 
the trip limit for the vessel. Additionally, the Framework Action would 
modify the commercial trip limits for Atlantic king mackerel in the 
Florida east coast subzone. The current system of trip limits may 
increase the rate of harvest causing the commercial sector to close 
before Lent, the most lucrative part of the fishing season. Therefore, 
the trip limit modifications that would be implemented through the 
Framework Action are expected to help minimize lost opportunities to 
fish, and optimize profitability in the king mackerel sector of the 
coastal migratory pelagics fishery.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   06/00/14  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National

[[Page 34025]]

Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. 
Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: 
roy.crabtree@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BD58

52. Implementation of a Program for Transshipments by Large Scale 
Fishing Vessels in the Eastern Pacific Ocean

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 951 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 971 et seq.
    Abstract: This rule would implement the Inter-American Tropical 
Tuna Commission program to monitor transshipments by large-scale tuna 
fishing vessels, and would govern transshipments by U.S. large-scale 
tuna fishing vessels and carrier, or receiving, vessels. The rule would 
establish: Criteria for transshipping in port; criteria for 
transshipping at sea by longline vessels to an authorized carrier 
vessel with an Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission observer onboard 
and an operational vessel monitoring system; and require a Pacific 
Transshipment Declaration Form, which must be used to report 
transshipments in the Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission 
Convention Area. The rule is neither applicable to troll and pole-and-
line vessels, nor to vessels that transship fresh fish at sea.The 
frequency of transshipments in the Eastern Pacific Ocean is uncertain, 
but only a few transshipments are expected annually. A similar rule was 
adopted in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean and NMFS calculated 
that an average of twenty-four at-sea transshipments of fish caught by 
longline gear there have occurred annually from 1993 through 2009. 
Transshipments in the Eastern Pacific Ocean are likely to be much less 
than twenty-four per year. This rule is necessary for the United States 
to satisfy its international obligations under the 1949 Convention for 
the Establishment of an Inter-American Tropical Tuna, to which it is a 
Contracting Party.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   06/00/14  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: William Stelle Jr., Regional Administrator West 
Coast Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way Northeast, Seattle, WA 98115, 
Phone: 206 526-6150.
    RIN: 0648-BD59

53. Amendment 45 to the Fishery Management Plan for Bering Sea and 
Aleutian Islands King and Tanner Crab Freezer Longline Catcher/
Processor Pacific Cod Sideboard Removal

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: This rule would establish conditions for the removal of 
Gulf of Alaska Pacific cod catch limits, known as sideboards, which 
apply to some catcher/processor vessels using hook-and-line gear, also 
known as freezer longliners. The newly reorganized sideboard limits 
have effectively eliminated the ability of these stakeholders to 
participant in these Gulf of Alaska fisheries. The rule would remove 
the Gulf of Alaska Pacific cod sideboards from 6 freezer longline 
vessels if owners of vessels endorsed to catch and process Pacific cod 
in the Western Gulf of Alaska, Central Gulf of Alaska, or both (a total 
of 9 vessels) agree to removal of the sideboards, within one year from 
the effective date of a final rule. If an agreement is not reached by 
the deadline, the sideboarded vessels would not be able to participate 
in the Gulf of Alaska fisheries. The requirement for an agreement is 
intended to promote cooperation among all affected parties prior to the 
removal of sideboards.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   07/00/14  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: James Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 709 West Ninth Street, Juneau, AK 99801, Phone: 907 
586-7221, Fax: 907 586-7465, Email: jim.balsiger@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BD61

54. Information Collection Program for Atlantic Surfclam and Ocean 
Quahog Fisheries

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: NMFS is implementing this information collection program 
at the request of the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council 
(Council). This program will collect additional information about the 
individuals who hold and/or control Individual Transferable Quota in 
the Atlantic surfclam and ocean quahog fisheries. This information will 
be used by the Council in the consideration and development of 
excessive shares cap(s) in these Individual Transferable Quota 
fisheries.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   06/00/14  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 
978 281-9287, Email: john.bullard@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BD64

55.  Red Snapper Allocation--Amendment 28 to the Fishery 
Management Plan for the Reef Fish Resources of the Gulf of Mexico 
(Section 610 Review)

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: The current allocation of red snapper between the 
commercial and recreational sectors is 51:49 percent, respectively. The 
Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council (Council) is considering a 
change in the allocation with the aim of increasing the net benefits 
from red snapper fishing and increasing the stability of the red 
snapper component of the reef fish fishery, particularly for the 
recreational sector which has experienced shorter and shorter seasons. 
The Council initially considered options that increased the commercial 
sectors allocation above the current 51 percent. However, after 
considering the economic analyses conducted by the Southeast Fisheries 
Science Center and the loss of fishing opportunities by the 
recreational sector, the Council concluded that such a reallocation 
would not meet the purpose and need of this action. Therefore, the 
Council has limited the options under consideration to those that would 
increase the recreational sectors allocation above 49 percent.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   08/00/14  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BD68

[[Page 34026]]

56.  Amendment 96 to the Fishery Management Plan for Groundfish 
of the Gulf of Alaska To Revise the Community Quota Entity Program

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 773 et seq.
    Abstract: Amendment 96 to the Fishery Management Plan for 
Groundfish of the Gulf of Alaska would modify the halibut and sablefish 
Individual Fishing Quota Program regulations for management of 
community quota entities in the Gulf of Alaska. The action revises the 
Individual Fishing Quota Program by removing a restriction on community 
quota entities holdings of quota share. Removing this restriction 
provides community quota entities access to more affordable quota 
shares, which could enhance the ability of the community quota entities 
community to realize economic benefits from additional community 
resident participation in the halibut and sablefish fisheries.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   06/00/14  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: James Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 709 West Ninth Street, Juneau, AK 99801, Phone: 907 
586-7221, Fax: 907 586-7465, Email: jim.balsiger@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BD74

57.  Amendment 7 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Dolphin 
Wahoo Fishery of the Atlantic

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: The intent of this amendment is to make regulations for 
dolphin and wahoo consistent with those existing regulations for 
snapper-grouper species. Amendment 7 to the Dolphin Wahoo Fishery 
Management Plan would allow fishermen to bring fillets of dolphin and 
wahoo from the Bahamas into the U.S. exclusive economic zone, as 
regulations already allow fillets of snapper-grouper species to be 
brought from the Bahamas into the U.S. exclusive economic zone. This 
rule would allow fishermen to bring fillets of dolphin and wahoo into 
the U.S. exclusive economic zone that were lawfully harvested in 
Bahamian waters, provided valid Bahamian fishing and cruising permits 
are on board the vessel, and the vessel is in transit through the 
Atlantic exclusive economic zone.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   12/00/14
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BD76

58.  Regulatory Amendment 16 to the Fishery Management Plan for 
the Snapper-Grouper Fishery of the South Atlantic Region

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: Regulatory Amendment 16 contains an action to address the 
prohibition on the use of black sea bass pots annually from November 1 
through April 30 that was implemented through Regulatory Amendment 19. 
The prohibition was a precautionary measure to prevent interactions 
between black sea bass pot gear and whales listed under the Endangered 
Species Act during large whale migrations and the right whale calving 
season off the southeastern coast. The South Atlantic Fishery 
Management Council, through Regulatory Amendment 16, is considering 
removal of the closure, changing the length of the closure, and 
changing the area of the closure. The goal is to minimize adverse 
socio-economic impacts to black sea bass pot endorsement holders while 
maintaining protection for Endangered Species Act-listed whales in the 
South Atlantic region.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   03/00/15
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BD78

59.  Amendment 8 to the Fishery Management Plan for Coral, 
Coral Reefs, and Live/Hardbottom Habitats of the South Atlantic Region

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: Coral Amendment 8 would modify the boundaries of the 
Oculina Bank Habitat Area of Particular Concern, the Stetson-Miami 
Terrace Coral Habitat Area of Particular Concern, and the Cape Lookout 
Coral Habitat Area of Particular Concern to protect deepwater coral 
ecosystems. The amendment also proposes to implement a transit 
provision through the Oculina Bank Habitat Area of Particular Concern 
for fishing vessels with rock shrimp onboard.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   06/00/14
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BD81

60.  Amendment 20A to the Fishery Management Plan for the 
Coastal Migratory Pelagic Resources of the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic 
Region

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: Amendment 20A would prohibit the sale of king and Spanish 
mackerel caught under the bag limit in the Gulf of Mexico and South 
Atlantic regions except under limited circumstances. For the Gulf of 
Mexico, the amendment would prohibit the sale of king and Spanish 
mackerel caught under the bag limit unless those fish are either caught 
on a for-hire trip and the vessel has both a for-hire and commercial 
vessel permit, or the fish are caught as part of a state-permitted 
tournament and the proceeds from the sale are donated to charity. For 
the South Atlantic region, the amendment would prohibit the sale of 
king and Spanish mackerel caught under the bag limit unless the fish 
are caught as part of a state-permitted tournament and the proceeds 
from the sale are donated to charity. In addition, the amendment would 
remove the income qualification requirement for king and Spanish 
mackerel commercial permits. This action would not affect the number of 
king mackerel permits, which are limited access, but could increase the 
number of Spanish mackerel permits, which are open access.
    Timetable:

[[Page 34027]]



------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   06/00/14
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BD83

61.  Amendment 100 to the FMP for Groundfish of the BSAI 
Management Area and Amendment 91 to the FMP for Groundfish of the Gulf 
of Alaska To Add Grenadiers to the Ecosystem Component Category

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: Amendments 100 and 91 would amend the Fishery Management 
Plan to add grenadiers to the ecosystem component category. Grenadiers 
are caught incidentally in the groundfish fisheries, and adding them to 
the Fishery Management Plans would recognize their role in the 
ecosystem. NMFS would also implement regulations for federally-
permitted groundfish fishermen to improve reporting of grenadiers, 
limit retention, and prevent directed fishing for grenadiers. This 
action is necessary to limit the groundfish fisheries impact on 
grenadiers. Federally-permitted groundfish fishermen would be affected 
by the proposed rule, however, the anticipated impacts are considered 
to be de minimis according the economic analysis prepared for this 
action.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   06/00/14
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: James Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 709 West Ninth Street, Juneau, AK 99801, Phone: 907 
586-7221, Fax: 907 586-7465, Email: jim.balsiger@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BD98

62.  Framework Adjustment 2 to the Northeast Skate Complex 
Fishery Management Plan

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: This action includes skate fishery specifications for the 
2014-2015 fishing years, and modifications to skate reporting 
requirements for vessels and dealers. This action would establish: an 
annual catch limit for the skate complex of 35,479 mt (a decrease from 
50,435 mt in 2013); an overall total allowable landings of 16,385 mt (a 
decrease from 23,365 mt in 2013); status quo possession limits for the 
skate wing and bait fisheries; and changes to skate vessel and dealer 
reporting requirements to improve species-specific landings data, 
including removal of ``unclassified skate'' reporting options.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   06/00/14
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 
978 281-9287, Email: john.bullard@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BD99

63. Marine Mammal Protection Act Permit Regulation Revisions

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1374
    Abstract: This action would consider revisions to the implementing 
regulations governing the issuance of permits for activities under 
section 104 of the Marine Mammal Protection Act. The intent of this 
action would be to streamline and update (using plain language) the 
general permitting information and the specific requirements for the 
four categories of permits: scientific research (including the General 
Authorization); enhancement; educational and commercial photography; 
and public display. The revisions would also simplify procedures for 
collection, possession, and transfer of marine mammals parts collected 
before the effective date of the Marine Mammal Protection Act, and also 
clarify reporting requirements for public display facilities holding 
marine mammals.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
ANPRM...............................   09/13/07  72 FR 52339
ANPRM Comment Period Extended.......   10/15/07  72 FR 58279
ANPRM Comment Period End............   11/13/07  72 FR 52339
ANPRM Comment Period Extended End...   12/13/07  72 FR 58279
NPRM................................   12/00/14
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Donna Wieting, Fishery Biologist, Office of 
Protected Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 1315 
East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 713-2322.
    RIN: 0648-AV82

64. Designation of Critical Habitat for the North Atlantic Right Whale

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1361 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 1531 to 1543
    Abstract: National Marine Fisheries Service proposes to designate 
critical habitat for the North Atlantic right whale. This proposal 
would result in an expansion of critical habitat in the northeast 
feeding area (Gulf of Maine-Georges Bank region) and the southeast 
calving area (Florida to North Carolina) compared to what was 
designated in 1994 for right whales.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   09/00/14
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Donna Wieting, Fishery Biologist, Office of 
Protected Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 1315 
East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 713-2322.
    RIN: 0648-AY54

65. Amendment and Updates to the Bottlenose Dolphin Take Reduction Plan

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1361 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.
    Abstract: This action would amend regulations under the Bottlenose 
Dolphin Take Reduction Plan (Plan) to reduce bottlenose dolphin serious 
injuries and mortalities incidental to the Virginia Pound net fishery. 
The Plan recommends the year-round use of modified leaders for offshore 
pound nets within parts of the Chesapeake Bay and Virginia coastal 
waters. Regulations for Virginia Pound Nets are currently implemented 
under the Endangered Species Act for sea turtle conservation. The Plan 
recommended similar

[[Page 34028]]

regulations to those currently enacted under the Endangered Species 
Act; however, the regulations under the Plan will offer greater 
conservation benefits to both bottlenose dolphins and sea turtles. 
Because the regulations may affect current sea turtle regulations, a 
joint-rulemaking will be conducted under both the Marine Mammal 
Protection Act and Endangered Species Act to amend: (1) the Plan under 
the Marine Mammal Protection Act, proposing Virginia pound net 
requirements; and (2) current federal sea turtle regulations for 
Virginia pound nets under the Endangered Species Act to ensure 
consistency between regulations.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
           Action               Date                 FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM.......................   06/00/14
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Donna Wieting, Fishery Biologist, Office of 
Protected Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 1315 
East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 713-2322.
    RIN: 0648-BB37

NOS/ONMS

66.  Revisions to Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National 
Marine Sanctuary Regulations

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1431 et seq.
    Abstract: In 2010, the Office of National Marine Sanctuaries (ONMS) 
initiated a review of the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National 
Marine Sanctuary management plan, to evaluate substantive progress 
toward implementing the goals for the sanctuary, and to make revisions 
to its management plan and regulations as necessary to fulfill the 
purposes and policies of the National Marine Sanctuaries Act (NMSA) and 
the Hawaiian Islands National Marine Sanctuary Act (HINMSA; Title II, 
Subtitle C, Pub. L. 102587). ONMS intends to publish a proposed rule 
and draft EIS that proposes to expand the scope of the sanctuary to 
ecosystem based management rather than concentrating on only humpback 
whales. In addition, possible boundary expansion will be discussed.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice..............................   07/14/10  75 FR 40759
NPRM................................   09/00/14
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Edward Lindelof, Department of Commerce, National 
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver 
Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 713-3137.
    RIN: 0648-BD97

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)

Final Rule Stage

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

National Marine Fisheries Service

67. American Lobster Fishery; Fishing Effort Control Measures To 
Complement Interstate Lobster Management Recommendations by the 
Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 5101 et seq.
    Abstract: The action would limit future access in the Lobster 
Conservation Management Area (Area) 2 and Outer Cape Area lobster trap 
fishery based on historic participation criteria, and implement a 
transferable trap program in Area 2, Area 3, and the Outer Cape Area as 
recommended by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission. 
National Marine Fisheries Service proposes to use the same historic 
participation data and qualification criteria used by state agencies to 
qualify state lobstermen fishing in the state waters of the subject 
management areas.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
ANPRM...............................   05/10/05  70 FR 24495
ANPRM Comment Period End............   06/09/05
Notice of Public Meeting............   05/03/10  75 FR 23245
NPRM................................   06/12/13  78 FR 35217
Final Action........................   06/00/14
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 
978 281-9287, Email: john.bullard@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-AT31

68. Amendment 7 to the 2006 Consolidated Highly Migratory Species 
Fishery Management Plan

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 971 et seq.
    Abstract: Amendment 7 focuses on bluefin tuna fishery management 
issues consistent with the need to end overfishing and rebuild the 
stock. Measures in draft Amendment 7 address several of the long-
standing challenges facing the fishery and will analyze, among other 
things, revisiting quota allocations; reducing and accounting for dead 
discards; adding or modifying time/area closures or gear-restricted 
areas; and improving the reporting and monitoring of dead discards and 
landings in all categories.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice..............................   04/23/12  77 FR 24161
Notice..............................   06/08/12  77 FR 34025
NPRM................................   08/21/13  78 FR 52032
NPRM Comment Period Extended........   09/18/13  78 FR 57340
Public Hearing......................   11/05/13  78 FR 66327
NPRM Comment Period Reopened........   12/11/13  78 FR 75327
Public Hearing......................   12/26/13  78 FR 78322
Final Action........................   09/00/14
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, Room 13362, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 
20910, Phone: 301 713-2334, Fax: 301 713-0596, Email: 
alan.risenhoover@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BC09

69. Generic Amendment to Several Fishery Management Plans in the Gulf 
of Mexico and South Atlantic Regions To Modify Federally-Permitted 
Seafood Dealer Reporting Requirements

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: To better ensure commercial landings of managed fish 
stocks do not exceed annual catch limits, improvements are needed to 
the accuracy, completeness, consistency, and timeliness of data 
submitted by federally-permitted seafood dealers. The purpose of the 
generic amendment is to change the current reporting requirements for 
those dealers who purchase fish managed under several of the Gulf of 
Mexico and South Atlantic Fishery Management Council fishery management 
plans. Changes are proposed to the current six dealer

[[Page 34029]]

permits to increase the species that must be reported. Changes are also 
proposed to the method and frequency of dealer reporting. This action 
will aid in achieving the optimum yield from each fishery while 
reducing (1) undue socioeconomic harm to dealers and fishermen and (2) 
administrative burdens to fishery agencies.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice..............................   12/19/13  78 FR 76807
NPRM................................   01/02/14  79 FR 81
Final Action........................   06/00/14
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BC12

70. Georges Bank Yellowtail Flounder Emergency Action To Provide a 
Partial Exemption From Accountability Measures to the Atlantic Scallop 
Fishery

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: This action, requested by the New England Fishery 
Management Council, exempts the Atlantic sea scallop fishery from any 
accountability measure for catch of Georges Bank yellowtail flounder 
exceeding the revised sub-annual catch limit of 156.9 mt up to the 
initial sub-annual catch limit level of 307.5 mt. By exempting the 
scallop fleet from accountability measures at the lower revised 156.9 
mt sub-ACL, but maintaining accountability at the 307.5 mt level 
initially set for the fishing year, there remains a need for the 
scallop fleet to mitigate yellowtail flounder catch but to do so within 
the context of the initial level established for the fishing year. This 
specific accountability measure is not needed to comply with Magnuson 
Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act requirements because 
there is an accountability measure at the fishery level that remains 
unchanged by this proposed action. Any overage of the fishery level ACL 
is repaid pound-for-pound in a subsequent fishing year.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   10/01/12  77 FR 59883
NPRM Comment Period End.............   10/31/12
Final Action--Withdrawal of the        06/00/14
 Proposed Rule.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 
978 281-9287, Email: john.bullard@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BC33

71. Modification to the Hired Skipper Regulations for Management of the 
Individual Fishing Quota Program for the Fixed-GEAR Commercial 
Fisheries for Pacific Halibut and Sablefish in Waters of Alaska

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 773 et seq.
    Abstract: This action would amend the hired master regulations of 
the Individual Fishing Quota Program for the fixed-gear commercial 
Pacific halibut and sablefish fisheries in the Bering Sea and Aleutian 
Islands management area and the Gulf of Alaska. The Individual Fishing 
Quota Program allows initial recipients of catcher vessel halibut and 
sablefish quota share to hire a vessel master to harvest Individual 
Fishing Quota derived from the quota share. When a hired master fishes 
an initial recipients Individual Fishing Quota, the initial recipient 
is exempt from being onboard the vessel. This action would remove the 
owner-onboard exemption to hire a master to harvest Individual Fishing 
Quota derived from quota share that an initial recipient received by 
transfer after February 12, 2010. Between February 12, 2010 and the 
effective date of this action, initial recipient quota share 
transferred into a quota share block of the same category would retain 
the hired master privilege. After the effective date of this action, no 
hired master privilege would be retained on initial recipient quota 
share consolidated with quota share of the same category. This action 
is necessary to maintain a predominantly owner-operated fishery.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   04/26/13  78 FR 24707
Final Action........................   06/00/14
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: James Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 709 West Ninth Street, Juneau, AK 99801, Phone: 907 
586-7221, Fax: 907 586-7465, Email: jim.balsiger@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BC62

72. Allowing Northeast Multispecies Sector Vessels Access to Year-Round 
Closed Areas

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: This action allows Northeast Multispecies vessels 
enrolled in a sector to fish in any of three year-round closed areas on 
Georges Bank during select times of the 2013 fishing year. This rule 
allows fishing access for Northeast multispecies sectors to two 
portions of the Southern New England Nantucket Lightship Closed Area 
for the remainder of the 2013 fishing year, under specified conditions. 
The intent of this rule is to allow sector vessels increased 
opportunities to harvest non-groundfish stocks such as monkfish, 
dogfish, and skates, while minimizing impacts to overfished groundfish 
stock such as Georges Bank cod and yellowtail flounder.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   07/11/13  78 FR 41772
Interim Final Rule..................   12/16/13  78 FR 76077
Final Action........................   06/00/14
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 
978 281-9287, Email: john.bullard@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BD09

73. Pacific Coast Groundfish Trawl Rationalization Program Trailing 
Actions: Permitting Requirements for Observer and Catch Monitor 
Providers

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: This action would modify regulations pertaining to 
certified catch monitors and observers required under the Pacific Coast 
Groundfish Fishery Management Plan. The action specifies permitting 
requirements for business entities interested in providing certified 
observers and catch monitor services, as well as addresses numerous 
housekeeping measures and updates observer provider and vessel 
responsibilities relative to observer

[[Page 34030]]

safety such that the regulations are consistent with the Coast Guard 
and Maritime Transportation Act of 2012. This action affects 
individuals serving as certified catch monitors and observers, business 
entities that provide certified catch monitors and observers, vessels 
that are required to carry certified observers, and shore-based 
business entities that are required to employ the services of certified 
catch monitors.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   02/19/14  79 FR 9591
NPRM Comment Period End.............   03/21/14
Final Action........................   06/00/14
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: William Stelle Jr., Regional Administrator West 
Coast Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way Northeast, Seattle, WA 98115, 
Phone: 206 526-6150.
    RIN: 0648-BD30

74. Pacific Coast Groundfish Trawl Rationalization Program; Second 
Program Improvement and Enhancement Rule

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: This action implements trailing actions for the Pacific 
coast groundfish trawl rationalization program in order to further 
improve and refine the program. Since implementation of the program in 
January 2011, the Pacific Fishery Management Council (Council) and NMFS 
have developed numerous trailing actions to the program. This action 
includes multiple components that either implement original provisions 
of the program, or increase flexibility or efficiency, or address minor 
revisions/clarifications. Implementation of Quota share transfer 
regulations is also included in this action. The other components of 
this action are intended to increase flexibility and efficiency for 
participants and the Agency, and to make minor clarifications to the 
program regulations.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   07/19/13  78 FR 43125
Final Rule..........................   11/15/13  78 FR 68764
Correcting Amendment................   06/00/14
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: William Stelle Jr., Regional Administrator West 
Coast Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way Northeast, Seattle, WA 98115, 
Phone: 206 526-6150.
    RIN: 0648-BD31

75. Modifications to the Pacific Coast Groundfish Trawl Rockfish 
Conservation Area Boundaries

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: This action would implement recommendations from the 
Pacific Fishery Management Council to liberalize trawl Rockfish 
Conservation Area boundaries for participants in the Pacific Coast 
groundfish shorebased individual fishing quota program, beginning 
November 1, 2013 through the end of 2014. Different trawl Rockfish 
Conservation Area variations have been in place since 2002-2003 and are 
typically adjusted through routine inseason actions to keep overfished 
fish species within acceptable catch limits or harvest guidelines. This 
rule proposes to modify the trawl Rockfish Conservation Area 
boundaries, in order to increase access to target species. This rule 
would increase fishermen's access to their target species allocations, 
while allowing the individual accountability inherent in the individual 
fishing quota program to reduce bycatch. This action would also 
increase the flexibility and efficiency for individual fishing quota 
program participants, and maintain the full catch accounting 
requirements of the individual fishing quota program.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   09/13/13  78 FR 56641
Final Action........................   06/00/14
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: William Stelle Jr., Regional Administrator West 
Coast Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way Northeast, Seattle, WA 98115, 
Phone: 206 526-6150.
    RIN: 0648-BD37

76. Framework Adjustment 8 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid and 
Butterfish Fishery Management Plan

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: Framework 8 announces several changes to facilitate the 
operation of the butterfish discard cap on the longfin squid fishery. 
The alternatives proposed in Framework 8 would allocate the butterfish 
discard cap among the Trimesters in the same percentages used for the 
trimester allocations for longfin squid. In addition, Framework 8 would 
allow NMFS to transfer, in either direction, a certain amount of unused 
quota between the butterfish landing allocation and the discard cap on 
the longfin squid fishery. This would occur near the end of the year, 
in order to optimally utilize the butterfish that is available for 
fishing each year.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   01/31/14  79 FR 5364
NPRM Comment Period End.............   03/03/14  .......................
Final Action........................   06/00/14  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 
978 281-9287, Email: john.bullard@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BD50

77. Implementation of the Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission 
Resolution To Establish a Vessel Monitoring System Program in the 
Eastern Pacific Ocean

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 951 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 971 et seq.
    Abstract: This rule would implement the Inter-American Tropical 
Tuna Commissions Resolution intended to require owners and operators of 
tuna-fishing vessels to have installed, activate, carry and operate 
vessel monitoring system units (also known as mobile transmitting 
units).This regulation would apply to owners and operators of tuna-
fishing vessels 24 meters or more in length, operating in the eastern 
Pacific Ocean. The vessel monitoring system units would have to be 
type-approved, and authorize the Inter-American Tropical Tuna 
Commission and NMFS to receive and relay transmissions (also called 
position reports) from the vessel monitoring system unit. Vessel 
monitoring systems may enhance the safety of some vessels by allowing 
the vessels location to be tracked, which could assist in rescue 
efforts. This regulation would apply to commercial vessels and would 
not apply to recreational or charter vessels. This rule would apply to 
approximately seventy-four vessels, however, roughly thirty-eight of 
these vessels are already subject to vessel monitoring system

[[Page 34031]]

requirements under the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries 
Commission. Due to the relatively small number of vessels affected, 
this rule is not expected to garner public opposition or congressional 
interest.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   02/06/14  79 FR 7152
Correction..........................   02/25/14  79 FR 10465
Final Action........................   06/00/14  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: William Stelle Jr., Regional Administrator West 
Coast Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way Northeast, Seattle, WA 98115, 
Phone: 206 526-6150.
    RIN: 0648-BD54

78. Implementation of the Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission 
Resolution To Adopt Conservation and Management Measures for Pacific 
Bluefin Tuna in the Eastern Pacific Ocean

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 951 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 971 et seq.
    Abstract: This action proposes regulations adopted by the Inter-
American Tropical Tuna Commission that would place a limit on 
commercial harvests of Pacific bluefin tuna in the eastern Pacific 
Ocean in 2014. The Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission resolution 
imposes an international aggregate catch limit of 5,000 metric tons for 
commercial fleets in the Eastern Pacific Ocean and, as in past years, 
the Resolution allows a minimum of 500 metric tons for nations such as 
the United States that have historically fished Pacific bluefin tuna in 
the Eastern Pacific Ocean but do not harvest large amounts. The rule is 
expected to have a beneficial impact on Pacific bluefin tuna and other 
living marine resources since it would extend catch limits currently 
set to expire December 31, 2013. This rule is likely to have negligible 
economic impacts because the U.S. fleets that catch Pacific bluefin 
tuna have not caught more than 500 metric tons of bluefin in more than 
a decade.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   01/10/14  79 FR 1810
NPRM Comment Period End.............   02/10/14  .......................
Final Action........................   06/00/14  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: William Stelle Jr., Regional Administrator West 
Coast Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way Northeast, Seattle, WA 98115, 
Phone: 206 526-6150.
    RIN: 0648-BD55

79. 2014 Specifications and Management Measures for the Atlantic 
Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fisheries

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: This action establishes catch levels and associated 
management measures for the 2014 fishing year for species managed under 
the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fishery Management Plan. 
The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council reaffirmed the 3-year catch 
level recommendations for Illex squid and longfin squid (2012-2014), 
and for Atlantic mackerel (2013-2015), so no changes are proposed for 
catch levels for those species. The proposed action would: increase the 
butterfish ABC by 8 percent, and the butterfish landings limit by 24 
percent, compared to 2013; set a 236 mt cap on river herring and shad 
catch in the mackerel fishery; raise the post-closure possession limit 
for longfin squid to 10,000 lb for vessels targeting Illex squid; and 
change the butterfish Phase 3 trip limit to 600 lb (from 500 lb) for 
longfin squid/butterfish moratorium permit holders to make it 
consistent with the incidental butterfish trip limit.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   01/10/14  79 FR 1813
NPRM Comment Period End.............   02/10/14  .......................
Final Action........................   06/00/14  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 
978 281-9287, Email: john.bullard@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BD65

80. Modifications to Identification Markings on Fishing Gear Marker 
Buoys

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 3631 et seq.; 16 
U.S.C. 773 et seq.; Pub. L. 108-447
    Abstract: This rule would eliminate the requirement that buoys 
marking the location of commercial fishing gear be marked with the 
vessels name, in addition to a vessel identification number. Current 
regulations require buoy markings to make it possible to identify the 
vessel from which the gear was deployed. Experience shows that it is 
not necessary to mark buoys with both the vessels name and Federal 
fisheries permit number. While one vessel may share the same name as 
another vessel, vessel identification numbers are exclusive and unique 
to the recipient vessel. The purpose of this action is to reduce 
regulatory burdens by eliminating the requirement to mark buoys with 
the vessels name, and will reduce costs to vessel owners by reducing 
the labor and materials needed to mark buoys.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   01/03/14  79 FR 381
NPRM Comment Period End.............   02/03/14  .......................
Final Action........................   06/00/14  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: James Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 709 West Ninth Street, Juneau, AK 99801, Phone: 907 
586-7221, Fax: 907 586-7465, Email: jim.balsiger@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BD66

81.  Pacific Halibut Fisheries; Catch Sharing Plan

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 773 et seq.
    Abstract: Each year, the Pacific Fishery Management Council 
(Council) reviews and receives public comment on its Pacific Halibut 
Catch Sharing Plan (Plan) to determine whether revisions are needed to 
achieve management objectives for any of the West Coast halibut 
fisheries. For 2014 and beyond, the Council has recommended minor 
changes to the portion of the Plan covering the allocations and sport 
fisheries. For the Washington north coast subarea sport fishery the 
recommended changes clarify the season structure and remove the 
provisions for a nearshore fishery. For the Columbia River subarea 
sport fishery the recommended changes revise the days of the week the 
fishery is open and modify the subarea allocation to provide for a new 
nearshore fishery within the subarea. For the Oregon central coast 
subarea sport fishery the changes include modifying the nearshore 
fishery. For the South of

[[Page 34032]]

Humbug Mountain subarea, the recommended changes include breaking the 
subarea into separate subareas for Southern Oregon and California, and 
allocating catch to these subareas from existing allocations. These 
recommended changes to the Plan are implemented through the annual 
regulations. The annual regulations will also include the 2014 halibut 
quota for the West Coast fisheries as recommended by the International 
Pacific Halibut Commission.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   02/06/14  79 FR 7156
NPRM Comment Period End.............   02/21/14  .......................
Final Action........................   06/00/14  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: William Stelle Jr., Regional Administrator West 
Coast Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way Northeast, Seattle, WA 98115, 
Phone: 206 526-6150.
    RIN: 0648-BD82

82.  Temporary Rule Through Emergency Action To Revise Annual 
Catch Limits and Accountability Measures for Blueline Tilefish and the 
Deep-Water Complex in the South Atlantic Region

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: In October 2013, NMFS determined the blueline tilefish 
stock in the South Atlantic is experiencing overfishing and is 
overfished. As mandated by Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and 
Management Act, NMFS and the Council must prepare and implement a plan 
amendment and regulations to end overfishing immediately and rebuild 
the stock by December 6, 2015. The Council and NMFS, through actions in 
a future amendment, plan to implement a rebuilding plan and management 
actions to end overfishing and rebuild the blueline tilefish stock. In 
the interim, NMFS will publish an emergency rule to implement temporary 
annual catch limits and accountability measures for blueline tilefish, 
and modify the current annual catch limits and accountability measures 
for the deep-water complex. The goal of this action is to minimize 
future adverse biological effects to the blueline tilefish stock, and 
the socio-economic effects to fishermen and fishing communities that 
utilize the blueline tilefish, while a permanent rulemaking designed to 
end overfishing and rebuild the stock is developed.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Final Action........................   06/00/14  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BD87

83. Revision of Hawaiian Monk Seal Critical Habitat

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1533
    Abstract: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) 
Fisheries is developing a final rule to designate critical habitat for 
the Hawaiian monk seal in the main and Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. 
In response to a 2008 petition from the Center for Biological 
Diversity, Kahea, and the Ocean Conservancy to revise Hawaiian monk 
seal critical habitat, NOAA Fisheries published a proposed rule in June 
2011 to revise Hawaiian monk seal critical habitat by adding critical 
habitat in the main Hawaiian Islands and extending critical habitat in 
the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. Proposed critical habitat includes 
both marine and terrestrial habitats (e.g., foraging areas to 500 meter 
depth, pupping beaches, etc.). To address public comments on the 
proposed rule, NOAA Fisheries is augmenting its prior economic analysis 
to better describe the anticipated costs of the designation. NOAA 
Fisheries is analyzing new tracking data to assess monk seal habitat 
use in the main Hawaiian Islands. That may lead to some reduction in 
foraging area critical habitat for the main Hawaiian Islands to better 
reflect where preferred foraging features may be found.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   06/02/11  76 FR 32026
Notice of Public Meetings...........   07/14/11  76 FR 41446
Other...............................   06/25/12  77 FR 37867
Final Action........................   06/00/14  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Donna Wieting, Fishery Biologist, Office of 
Protected Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 1315 
East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 713-2322.
    RIN: 0648-BA81

84. Endangered and Threatened Species: Designation of Critical Habitat 
for Threatened Lower Columbia River Coho Salmon and Puget Sound 
Steelhead

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1531 to 1544
    Abstract: This action will designate critical habitat for lower 
Columbia River coho salmon and Puget Sound steelhead, currently listed 
as threatened species under the Endangered Species Act. The specific 
areas proposed for designation in for lower Columbia River coho include 
approximately 2,288 mi (3,681 km) of freshwater and estuarine habitat 
in Oregon and Washington. The specific areas proposed for designation 
for Puget Sound steelhead include approximately 1,880 mi (3,026 km) of 
freshwater and estuarine habitat in Puget Sound, Washington.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   01/14/13  78 FR 2725
Final Action........................   11/00/14  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Donna Wieting, Fishery Biologist, Office of 
Protected Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 1315 
East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 713-2322.
    RIN: 0648-BB30

85. Designation of Critical Habitat for the Distinct Population 
Segments of Yelloweye Rockfish, Canary Rockfish, and Bocaccio

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.
    Abstract: This action proposes to designate critical habitat under 
the Endangered Species Act for three Distinct Population Segments of 
rockfish in the Puget Sound/Georgia Basin: (1) The threatened Distinct 
Population Segments of yelloweye rockfish; (2) the threatened Distinct 
Population Segments of canary rockfish; and (3) the endangered Distinct 
Population Segments of bocaccio. The proposed specific areas for canary 
rockfish and bocaccio comprise approximately 505 hectares (1,249 acres) 
of marine habitat in Puget Sound. The proposed areas for yelloweye

[[Page 34033]]

rockfish comprise approximately of 245 hectares (606 acres) of marine 
habitat in Puget Sound.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   08/06/13  78 FR 47635
Final Action........................   08/00/14  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Donna Wieting, Fishery Biologist, Office of 
Protected Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 1315 
East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 713-2322.
    RIN: 0648-BC76

86. Amending the Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Plan

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1361 et seq.
    Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is proposes 
to amend the Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Plan. These changes 
are designed to address ongoing right, humpback, and fin whale 
entanglements resulting in serious injury or mortality. In 2009, the 
Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Team (Team) agreed on a schedule to 
develop conservation measures for reducing the risk of serious injury 
and mortality of large whales that become entangled in vertical lines. 
In an August 2012 American Lobster Biological Opinion, NMFS committed 
to publishing a proposed rule to address vertical line entanglements in 
2013, and to publish a final rule by April 2014. Unlike the broad-scale 
management approach taken to address entanglement risks associated with 
groundlines (rope between trap/pots), the approach for the vertical 
line rulemaking will focus on reducing the risk of vertical line 
entanglements in finer-scale high impact areas. Using fishing gear 
characterization data and whale sightings per unit effort data, NMFS 
developed a model to determine the co-occurrence of fishing gear 
density and whale density to serve as a guide in the identification of 
these high risk areas. Potential measures include: expanding the gear 
marking scheme to require larger and more frequent marks along the buoy 
line; increasing the number of traps per trawl based on area fished and 
miles fished from shore in the northeast; establishing several closures 
in the northeast for trap/pot fisheries; modifying weak link and 
breaking strength requirements of buoy lines; and requiring the use of 
one buoy line with one trap in the southeast.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   07/16/13  78 FR 42653
Notice..............................   07/24/13  78 FR 44536
Final Action........................   07/00/14  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Donna Wieting, Fishery Biologist, Office of 
Protected Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 1315 
East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 713-2322.
    RIN: 0648-BC90

87. Designation of Critical Habitat for the Northwest Atlantic Ocean 
Loggerhead Sea Turtle DPS and the Determination Regarding Critical 
Habitat for the North Pacific Ocean Loggerhead DPS

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.
    Abstract: This action would designate critical habitat for the 
Loggerhead sea turtle pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, 
as amended. The loggerhead sea turtle was originally listed worldwide 
as a threatened species on July 28, 1978. No critical habitat was 
designated for the loggerhead at that time. On September 22, 2011, NMFS 
and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service jointly published a final rule 
revising the loggerheads listing from a single worldwide threatened 
species to nine Distinct Population Segments. The two Distinct 
Population Segments occurring in U.S. jurisdiction are the Northwest 
Atlantic Ocean Distinct Population Segment (range defined as north of 
the equator, south of 60 N. lat., and west of 40 W. long.) and the 
North Pacific Ocean Distinct Population Segments (range defined as 
north of the equator and south of 60 N. lat.). For the 2011 final 
listing rule, NMFS and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service found 
designation of critical habitat to be not determinable. This action 
will satisfy the provisions under the Endangered Species Act requiring 
critical habitat to be designated for these Distinct Population 
Segments.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   07/18/13  78 FR 43006
Proposed Rule Correction............   08/01/13  78 FR 46563
Notice..............................   08/21/13  78 FR 51705
NPRM Comment Period Reopened........   09/30/13  78 FR 59907
Public Hearing......................   11/04/13  78 FR 65959
Final Action........................   07/00/14  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Donna Wieting, Fishery Biologist, Office of 
Protected Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 1315 
East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 713-2322.
    RIN: 0648-BD27

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)

Long-Term Actions

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

National Marine Fisheries Service

88. Comprehensive Fishery Management Plan for Puerto Rico

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: This comprehensive Puerto Rico Fishery Management Plan 
will incorporate, and modify as needed, Federal fisheries management 
measures presently included in each of the existing species-based U.S. 
Caribbean Fishery Management Plans (Spiny Lobster, Reef Fish, Coral, 
and Queen Conch Fishery Management Plans) as those measures pertain to 
Puerto Rico exclusive economic zone waters. The goal of this action is 
to create a Fishery Management Plan tailored to the specific fishery 
management needs of Puerto Rico. If approved, this new Puerto Rico 
Fishery Management Plan, in conjunction with similar comprehensive 
Fishery Management Plans being developed for each of St. Croix and St. 
Thomas/St. John, will replace the Spiny Lobster, Reef Fish, Coral and 
Queen Conch Fishery Management Plans presently governing the commercial 
and recreational harvest in U.S. Caribbean exclusive economic zone 
waters.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   05/00/15  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Phone: 727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-
5308, Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BD32

89. Comprehensive Fishery Management Plan for St. Croix

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

[[Page 34034]]

    Abstract: This comprehensive St. Croix Fishery Management Plan will 
incorporate, and modify as needed, federal fisheries management 
measures presently included in each of the existing species-based U.S. 
Caribbean Fishery Management Plans (Spiny Lobster, Reef Fish, Coral, 
and Queen Conch Fishery Management Plans) as those measures pertain to 
St. Croix exclusive economic zone waters. The goal of this action is to 
create a Fishery Management Plan tailored to the specific fishery 
management needs of St. Croix. If approved, this new St. Croix Fishery 
Management Plan, in conjunction with similar comprehensive Fishery 
Management Plans being developed for each of Puerto Rico and St. 
Thomas/St. John, will replace the Spiny Lobster, Reef Fish, Coral and 
Queen Conch Fishery Management Plans presently governing the commercial 
and recreational harvest in U.S. Caribbean exclusive economic zone 
waters.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   05/00/15  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Phone: 727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-
5308, Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BD33

90. Comprehensive Fishery Management Plan for St. Thomas/St. John

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: This comprehensive St. Thomas/St. John Fishery Management 
Plan will incorporate, and modify as needed, federal fisheries 
management measures presently included in each of the existing species-
based U.S. Caribbean Fishery Management Plans (Spiny Lobster, Reef 
Fish, Coral, and Queen Conch Fishery Management Plans) as those 
measures pertain to St. Thomas/St. John exclusive economic zone waters. 
The goal of this action is to create a Fishery Management Plan tailored 
to the specific fishery management needs of St. Thomas/St. John. If 
approved, this new St. Thomas/St. John Fishery Management Plan, in 
conjunction with similar comprehensive Fishery Management Plans being 
developed for each of St. Croix and Puerto Rico, will replace the Spiny 
Lobster, Reef Fish, Coral and Queen Conch Fishery Management Plans 
presently governing the commercial and recreational harvest in U.S. 
Caribbean exclusive economic zone waters.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   05/00/15  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Phone: 727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-
5308, Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BD34

91. Designate Critical Habitat for the Hawaiian Insular False Killer 
Whale Distinct Population Segment

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1533
    Abstract: The proposed action, if approved, would designate 
critical habitat for the Hawaiian insular false killer whale distinct 
population segment, pursuant to section 4 of the Endangered Species Act 
(ESA). Proposed critical habitat would only be designated in the main 
Hawaiian Islands as the Hawaiian insular false killer whales range is 
restricted from nearshore out to 140 km from the main Hawaiian Islands. 
Impacts from the designation stem mainly from Federal agencies 
requirement to consult with National Marine Fisheries Service, under 
section 7 of the ESA, to insure that any action they carry out, permit 
(authorize), or fund will not result in the destruction or adverse 
modification of critical habitat of a listed species.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   06/00/15  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Donna Wieting, Phone: 301 713-2322.
    RIN: 0648-BC45


DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)

Completed Actions

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

92. Marine Mammal Protection Act Stranding Regulation Revisions

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1379; 16 U.S.C. 1382; 16 U.S.C. 1421
    Abstract: National Marine Fisheries Service intends to clarify the 
requirements and procedures for responding to stranded marine mammals 
and for determining the disposition of rehabilitated marine mammals, 
which includes the procedures for the placement of non-releasable 
animals and for authorizing the retention of releasable rehabilitated 
marine mammals for scientific research, enhancement, or public display.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
ANPRM...............................   01/31/08  73 FR 5786
Final Action Comment Period Extended   03/28/08  73 FR 16617
No Further Action...................   02/01/14
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Donna Wieting, Fishery Biologist, Office of 
Protected Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 1315 
East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 713-2322.
    RIN: 0648-AW22

93. Amendment 14 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish 
Fishery Management Plan

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: The purpose of Amendment 14 is primarily to minimize 
river herring and shad bycatch in the Atlantic mackerel fishery, and 
implement an effective program for monitoring river herring and shad 
bycatch in the Mackerel, Squid and Butterfish fisheries. This action 
implements measures to expand reporting requirements for permit 
holders, increase at-sea observer coverage, and establish a mortality 
cap on river herring and shad in the mackerel fishery. This action is 
being taken because there is concern about the status of river herring 
and shad stocks throughout their ranges, and a push to reduce all 
sources of stock mortality, including fishing mortality.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice of Intent....................   06/09/10  75 FR 32745
Notice of Availability..............   08/12/13  78 FR 48852
NPRM................................   08/29/13  78 FR 53404
NPRM Comment Period End.............   10/11/13
Final Action........................   02/24/14  79 FR 10029
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone:

[[Page 34035]]

978 281-9287, Email: john.bullard@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-AY26

94. Amendment 5 to the Atlantic Herring Fishery Management Plan

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: The purpose of Amendment 5 is to minimize bycatch in the 
Atlantic herring fishery, and improve the collection of real-time catch 
data. Amendment 5 increases observer coverage, improves at-sea 
sampling, includes measures to reduce net slippage, and includes 
measures to address bycatch. This action is being taken to more 
accurately characterize Atlantic herring landings, minimize and monitor 
bycatch of river herring in the Atlantic herring fishery, and to 
improve monitoring of Atlantic herring fishing activity in groundfish 
closed areas.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Supplemental Notice of Intent.......   12/28/09  74 FR 68576
Notice of Availability..............   04/22/13  78 FR 23733
NPRM................................   06/03/13  78 FR 33020
Final Action........................   02/13/14  79 FR 8785
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 
978 281-9287, Email: john.bullard@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-AY47

95. Regulatory Amendment to Implement a Halibut Catch Sharing Plan for 
International Pacific Halibut Commission Area 2C and Area 3A

    Legal Authority: 44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.
    Abstract: This regulation implemented a catch sharing plan for the 
commercial and guided (charter) sport fisheries for Pacific halibut in 
waters of International Pacific Halibut Commission Regulatory Areas 2C 
(Southeast Alaska) and 3A (Central Gulf of Alaska). This regulatory 
amendment established a combined catch limit annually specified by the 
International Pacific Halibut Commission that is allocated between the 
commercial and charter halibut fisheries using percentage allocations 
proposed by the North Pacific Fishery Management Council. This action 
also implemented annual management measures for the charter halibut 
fishery that are intended to maintain harvest to the charter 
allocation, and specified annually by the International Pacific Halibut 
Commission using a process proposed by the Council. This action 
provides an opportunity for commercial halibut individual fishing quota 
holders to lease (transfer on an annual basis) halibut individual 
fishing quotas to charter halibut permit holders as Guided Angler Fish.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   07/22/11  76 FR 44156
NRPM Comment Period End.............   09/06/11
Proposed Rule; Ext. Comments........   09/07/11  76 FR 55343
Comment Period Extended.............   09/21/11  76 FR 55343
Second NPRM.........................   06/28/13  78 FR 39122
Comment Period Extended.............   07/25/13  78 FR 44920
Final Action........................   12/12/13  78 FR 75843
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: James Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 709 West Ninth Street, Juneau, AK 99801, Phone: 907 
586-7221, Fax: 907 586-7465, Email: jim.balsiger@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BA37

96. Fisheries Off West Coast States; Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery; 
Trawl Rationalization Program; Cost Recovery Program

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: This action implemented a cost recovery program for the 
Pacific Coast Groundfish Trawl Rationalization Program. Following final 
action on Amendment 20 to the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery 
Management Plan by the Pacific Fishery Management Council, National 
Marine Fisheries Service implemented the trawl rationalization program 
on January 11, 2011. In accordance with the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery 
Conservation and Management Act, the Secretary of Commerce is required 
to collect a fee to recover the actual costs directly related to the 
management, data collection, and enforcement of any limited access 
privilege program (LAPP), which includes the trawl rationalization 
program. The fee will not exceed 3% of the ex-vessel value of the fish 
harvested under the LAPP.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   02/01/13  78 FR 7371
NPRM Comment Period End.............   03/18/13
Final Action........................   12/11/13  78 FR 75268
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Barry Thom, Deputy Regional Administrator, 
Northwest Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, Building 1, 7600 Sand Point Way NE., 
Seattle, WA 48115-0070, Phone: 206 526-6150, Fax: 206 526-6426, Email: 
barry.thom@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BB17

97. Amendment 89 to the Gulf of Alaska Groundfish Fishery Management 
Plan Area Closures for Tanner Crab Protection in Gulf of Alaska 
Groundfish Fisheries

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1540; 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 
3631 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 773 et seq.; Pub. L. 105-277 ; Pub. L. 106-31
    Abstract: This action implemented a closure of a portion of Marmot 
Bay, northeast of Kodiak Island, to the use of pot and trawl gear (with 
the exception of pelagic gear used to target pollock) in groundfish 
fisheries year-round, and requires additional observer coverage (100 
percent for trawl vessels and 30 percent for pot vessels) in two areas 
east of Kodiak Island--the Chiniak Gully and State of Alaska 
Statistical Area 525702. The closure will reduce bycatch of Tanner crab 
in Gulf of Alaska groundfish fisheries. These additional observer 
coverage requirements are expected to be rescinded with the 
implementation of the restructured Observer Program. This action is 
necessary to protect stocks of Tanner crab near Kodiak Islands from the 
effects of using non-pelagic trawl and pot gear used to target 
groundfish in Marmot Bay and to provide improved estimates of the 
incidental catch of Tanner crab in two areas east of Kodiak Island by 
vessels using non-pelagic trawl and pot gear and to accomplish the 
goals and objectives of the Fishery Management Plan for Groundfish of 
the Gulf of Alaska. The intended effect of this action is to conserve 
and manage the fishery resources in the Gulf of Alaska.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice of Availability..............   06/03/13  78 FR 33040
Proposed Rule.......................   06/17/13  78 FR 36150
Comment Period End..................   07/17/13
Final Action........................   01/16/14  79 FR 2794
------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 34036]]

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: James Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 709 West Ninth Street, Juneau, AK 99801, Phone: 907 
586-7221, Fax: 907 586-7465, Email: jim.balsiger@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BB76

98. Amendment to the Vessel Ownership Requirements of the Individual 
Fishing Quota Program for Fixed-Gear Pacific Halibut and Sablefish 
Fisheries in and Off of Alaska

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 3631 et seq.; 16 
U.S.C. 773 et seq.; Pub. L. 108-447
    Abstract: This action would implement a regulatory amendment to 
modify the vessel ownership requirements of the Individual Fishing 
Quota Program for fixed-gear Pacific halibut and sablefish fisheries in 
and off of Alaska. This action would require initial recipients of 
certain classes of quota share to have held a minimum of 20 percent 
ownership interest in the vessel for at least 12 consecutive months 
prior to the submission of an application to hire a master for the 
purposes of fishing an Individual Fishing Quota permit. This action 
also would temporarily exempt from the 12-month ownership requirement 
an initial recipient whose vessel has been totally lost, as by sinking 
or fire, or so damaged that the vessel would require at least 60 days 
of shipyard time to be repaired. This action is necessary to maintain a 
predominantly owner-operated fishery.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   10/31/12  77 FR 65843
NPRM Comment Period End.............   11/30/12
Final Action........................   02/24/14  79 FR 9995
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: James Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 709 West Ninth Street, Juneau, AK 99801, Phone: 907 
586-7221, Fax: 907 586-7465, Email: jim.balsiger@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BB78

99. Amendment 95 to the Fishery Management Plan For Groundfish of the 
Gulf of Alaska

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: This action implements Amendment 95 to the Fishery 
Management Plan for Groundfish of the Gulf of Alaska. This action 
modifies halibut prohibited species catch management in the Gulf of 
Alaska to establish the Gulf of Alaska halibut prohibited species catch 
limits in Federal regulation; reduce the Gulf of Alaska halibut 
prohibited species catch limits for the trawl, hook and line catcher/
processor and catcher vessel sectors, and the hook and line demersal 
shelf rockfish fishery in the Southeast Outside District; and allow two 
additional options for vessels to better maintain groundfish harvest 
while achieving the halibut prohibited species catch reduction of this 
action.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice..............................   08/29/13  78 FR 53419
NPRM................................   09/17/13  78 FR 57106
NPRM Comment Period End.............   10/17/13
Final Action........................   02/20/14  79 FR 9625
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: James Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 709 West Ninth Street, Juneau, AK 99801, Phone: 907 
586-7221, Fax: 907 586-7465, Email: jim.balsiger@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BC39

100. 2013 Monkfish Emergency Action

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: At its November 2012 meeting, the New England Fishery 
Management Council requested that the Secretary of Commerce implement 
this Emergency action to eliminate monkfish possession limits in the 
Northern Fishery Management Area during fishing year 2013 due to the 
substantially reduced groundfish catch limits. This action eliminated 
monkfish possession limits for the vessels that have been issued both a 
limited access monkfish permit and a Northeast multispecies 
(groundfish) permit and are simultaneously using both a monkfish and a 
groundfish day-at-sea in the Northern Fishery Management Area 
(Management Area). By eliminating the possession limits in these 
specific cases, this action increased monkfish possession limits for 
the directed monkfish fishery in the Management Area. It is expected 
that this action allows some of the directed fishing vessels to land 
more monkfish per trip, which would result in an increase in revenue 
for such vessels.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   02/25/13  78 FR 12708
Interim Final Rule..................   04/30/13  78 FR 25214
Final Action........................   10/25/13  78 FR 63892
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 
978 281-9287, Email: john.bullard@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BC79

101. Framework Adjustment 50 to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery 
Management Plan

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: Framework 50 set catch limits for groundfish stocks for 
2013 through 2015, as well as catch limits for the U.S./Canada stocks 
for 2013. The Council recommended a catch limit of 1,150 mt for Georges 
Bank yellowtail flounder, which is inconsistent with scientific advice. 
As a result, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) 
Fisheries implemented a 500 mt quota which is consistent with the best 
scientific information available. NOAA Fisheries also addressed the 
carryover issue in this rulemaking, specifically, reducing the amount 
of Gulf of Maine cod that sector vessels can carry over to prevent 
overfishing.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   03/29/13  78 FR 19368
Interim Final Rule..................   05/03/13  78 FR 26171
Adjustments.........................   06/11/13  78 FR 34928
Final Rule..........................   08/29/13  78 FR 53397
Final Action........................   10/30/13  78 FR 64889
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 
978 281-9287, Email: john.bullard@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BC97

102. Amendment 102 to the FMP for Groundfish of the BSAI To Establish a 
Community Quota Entity Program in the Aleutian Islands and a Regulatory 
Amendment To Allow IFQ Derived From Category D Quota Share

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 773 et seq.

[[Page 34037]]

    Abstract: Amendment 102 would create a Community Quota Entity 
Program in Individual Fishing Quota (IFQ) regulatory area 4B in the 
Aleutian Islands, similar to the existing Community Quota Entity 
Program in the Gulf of Alaska. Amendment 102 would allow eligible 
communities in Area 4B to establish a designated non-profit entity as a 
Community Quota Entity to purchase halibut and sablefish catcher vessel 
quota shares in order to provide economic benefits to the community.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice..............................   11/01/13  78 FR 65602
NPRM................................   11/14/13  78 FR 68390
Final Action........................   02/14/14  79 FR 8870
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: James Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 709 West Ninth Street, Juneau, AK 99801, Phone: 907 
586-7221, Fax: 907 586-7465, Email: jim.balsiger@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BD03

103. Amendment 2 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Queen Conch 
Resources of Puerto Rico and the USVI: Compatibility of Trip and Bag 
Limits in the Management Area of St. Croix, USVI

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: This regulatory amendment addressed the incompatibility 
between certain Federal and USVI regulations related to the harvest of 
queen conch. Fishing and possessing queen conch in the exclusive 
economic zone is only allowed in the area of Lang Bank, to the east of 
St. Croix, USVI. However, current regulations regarding commercial trip 
limits and recreational bag limits for the harvest of queen conch in 
Federal waters were not compatible with USVI regulations. The USVI had 
expressed interest in having Federal regulations modified to make them 
compatible with the territorial limits to facilitate enforcement 
efforts, enhance compliance by fishers, and allow for more efficient 
management of queen conch resources in the U.S. Caribbean. In this 
regulatory amendment, the Caribbean Fishery Management Council chose to 
modify the commercial trip limit, but leave the recreational bag limit 
unchanged. Thus, the rule changed the commercial trip limit from 150 
queen conch per licensed commercial fisher per day, to 200 queen conch 
per vessel per day, regardless of the number of licensed commercial 
fishers onboard.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   06/07/13  78 FR 34310
Final Action........................   09/12/13  78 FR 56171
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BD15

104. Framework Adjustment 2 to the Atlantic Herring Fishery Management 
Plan and Management Measures for Atlantic Herring for the 2013-2015 
Fishing Years

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: Framework 2 allows the Council to use the specifications 
process to split annual catch limits seasonally (by month) for the 
Atlantic herring management areas. This increases operational 
flexibility within the herring fishery by allowing for more precise 
tailoring of the catch limits for each management area. Framework 2 
also implemented a policy for authorizing annual carryover of 
unharvested herring annual catch limits under specific conditions. This 
will provide increased opportunity to fish for unused herring annual 
catch limit amounts from the previous year. Combined, these measures 
provide a greater opportunity to adjust for specific stock conditions. 
The Atlantic herring fishery specifications are annual catch amounts 
(for the 2013-2015 fishing years, January-December). These 
specifications are routine, and are set for a duration of three years. 
These specifications will retain or increase the current catch limit 
levels, and will continue to prevent overfishing of the herring 
resource and achieve optimum yield. Further, the catch limits 
established in these specifications set a constant catch amount 
available to the industry that provides a stable allowable catch for 3-
year business planning purposes.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   08/02/13  78 FR 46897
Final Rule..........................   10/04/13  78 FR 61828
Final Action........................   10/22/13  78 FR 62471
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 
978 281-9287, Email: john.bullard@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BD17

105. Joint for-Hire Generic Reporting Amendment for the South Atlantic 
and Gulf of Mexico

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: This action requires headboat vessel operators to submit 
electronic fishing records (via computer or internet) rather than paper 
logbooks for the South Atlantic snapper-grouper, dolphin wahoo, and 
coastal migratory pelagics fisheries. It also gives NMFS the 
flexibility to modify the reporting frequency, via notice, if this 
becomes necessary in the future. Electronic reporting allows for more 
timely data collection, which would help with tracking recreational 
annual catch limits and preventing annual catch limits overages.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice..............................   09/18/13  78 FR 57339
NPRM................................   09/27/13  78 FR 59641
Final Action........................   12/27/13  78 FR 78779
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BD21

106. Modification of Vessel Monitoring System Requirements for Atlantic 
Highly Migratory Species Fisheries

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 971 et seq.
    Abstract: This rule modified the requirements concerning the use of 
Electronic Mobile Transmitting Unit (E-MTU) Vessel Monitoring Systems 
(VMS) units in Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS) fisheries. The 
rule modified the requirements for providing hail-in/hail-out 
declarations depending on whether the vessel is fishing for HMS. The 
rule also modified when the VMS unit must be on and activated. The 
revised regulations provide additional flexibility for vessel operators 
while continuing to provide the National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration Office of Law Enforcement (NOAA OLE) with

[[Page 34038]]

enhanced communication with HMS vessels at sea, improve enforcement 
capabilities of current regulations, and provide a secondary safety 
capability.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   08/29/13  78 FR 53397
Final Action........................   11/15/13  78 FR 68757
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, Room 13362, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 
20910, Phone: 301 713-2334, Fax: 301 713-0596, Email: 
alan.risenhoover@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BD24

107. Abbreviated Framework Action To Establish Funding Responsibilities 
for the Electronic Logbook Program in the Shrimp Fishery of the Gulf of 
Mexico

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: Amendment 13 to the Fishery Management Plan for the 
Shrimp Fishery of the Gulf of Mexico United States Waters established 
the requirement for the shrimp electronic logbook program. This action 
established a cost-sharing program that would allow NMFS to cover the 
costs of software development, data storage, effort estimation 
analysis, and archival activities, while the fishing industry would 
cover the costs of installing and maintaining the units and data 
transmission from the units to a NOAA server. A grant program has 
already covered the initial costs to purchase the new electronic 
logbook units for each of the shrimp permit holders in the Gulf.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   10/22/13  78 FR 62579
NPRM Comment Period End.............   11/06/13
Final Action........................   12/27/13  78 FR 78776
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov.
    RIN: 0648-BD41

108. Eliminate the Expiration Date Contained in the Final Rule To 
Reduce the Threat of Ship Collisions With North Atlantic Right Whales

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1361 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.
    Abstract: In 2008, National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) 
promulgated a regulation designed to reduce the likelihood of deaths 
and serious injuries to endangered North Atlantic right whales that 
result from collisions with ships. The rule implemented speed 
restrictions of no more than 10 knots applying to all vessels 65 feet 
long or greater in certain locations and times of the year along the 
east coast of the United States. To resolve controversy over the rule, 
NMFS agreed to incorporate a sunset clause under which the rule would 
expire on December 9, 2013. NMFS has been monitoring compliance and 
effectiveness of the rule and has detected a considerable increase in 
the rate of compliance with the rule in the third year. There are only 
approximately 400 remaining North Atlantic right whales, and the rate 
of encounter is relatively low, so detecting a trend in the rate of 
ship-strike mortalities will require several additional years of data. 
NMFS believes the science that supports the rule is sound and that 
slowing vessels will save whales and contribute to species recovery. 
Therefore, NMFS published this action to remove the sunset provision 
and allow the rule to remain in place. Based on an evaluation of recent 
information, NMFS estimated economic impacts to be considerably less 
than was originally thought.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   06/06/13  78 FR 34024
NPRM Comment Period End.............   08/05/13
Final Action........................   12/09/13  78 FR 73726
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Donna Wieting, Fishery Biologist, Office of 
Protected Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 1315 
East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 713-2322.
    RIN: 0648-BB20

[FR Doc. 2014-13114 Filed 6-12-14; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3510-12-P

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