National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration September 29, 2008 – Federal Register Recent Federal Regulation Documents

Pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) announces its intent to issue an environmental assessment (EA) which analyzes the management options for the west-coast-based deep-set longline (DSLL) pelagic tuna fishery operating on the high seas. The preferred alternative is to allow for the continued operation and possible minor expansion of the west-coast- based DSLL pelagic tuna fishery operating on the high seas. Impacts to the human environment (e.g., effects of the proposed action on protected species, finfish, seabirds, and socioeconomics) were found to be insignificant for both alternatives being considered. In 2005 a single commercial vessel began participating in the DSLL fishery on the high seas; therefore, this EA will provide the needed analysis to manage the fishery based on the best available science to ensure that the fishery is consistent with all Federal statutes and management objectives.

The Pacific Fishery Management Council's (Council) Salmon Technical Team (STT), Scientific and Statistical Committee (SSC) Salmon Subcommittee, and Model Evaluation Workgroup (MEW) will review proposed salmon methodology changes in a joint work session, which is open to the public.