National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration December 2012 – Federal Register Recent Federal Regulation Documents

2013-2014 Summer Flounder and Scup Specifications; 2013 Black Sea Bass Specifications; Preliminary 2013 Quota Adjustments; 2013 Summer Flounder Quota for Delaware
Document Number: 2012-31424
Type: Rule
Date: 2012-12-31
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
NMFS issues final specifications for the 2013 summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass fisheries, as well as the 2014 summer flounder and scup fisheries. This final rule specifies allowed harvest limits for both commercial and recreational fisheries. This action prohibits federally permitted commercial fishing vessels from landing summer flounder in Delaware in 2013 due to continued quota repayment from previous years' overages. These actions are necessary to comply with regulations implementing the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery Management Plan, as well as to ensure compliance with the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act. The intent of this action is to establish harvest levels and other management measures to ensure that these species are not overfished or subject to overfishing in 2013 and 2014.
Fisheries of the Northeastern United States; Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fisheries; 2012 Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Specifications; Correction
Document Number: 2012-31423
Type: Rule
Date: 2012-12-31
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
On April 23, 2012, NMFS published in the Federal Register the final rule to implement the 2012 summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass specifications, which established commercial summer flounder allocations for each coastal state from North Carolina to Maine, and the summer flounder recreational harvest limit. Following publication, an error was identified in the commercial summer flounder quota and recreational harvest limit. This rule corrects that error.
Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council; Public Meeting
Document Number: 2012-31358
Type: Notice
Date: 2012-12-31
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) announces its intent to hold a workshop. The purpose of the workshop is to consider options for improving the management of the longfin and Illex squid fisheries, with a focus on responsive harvest strategies that account for changing stock conditions over the course of the year. The Council intends for managers, scientists, and fishermen to collaboratively consider if responsive harvest strategies are feasible and appropriate for optimizing yield in these fisheries. Discussions at the workshop will culminate in a workshop report and a series of follow-up port meetings that will inform consideration of future management actions.
Fisheries of the South Atlantic; South Atlantic Fishery Management Council; Public Meeting
Document Number: 2012-31357
Type: Notice
Date: 2012-12-31
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
The South Atlantic Fishery Management Council (SAFMC) will hold a meeting of Golden Crab Advisory Panel (AP) in Fort Lauderdale, FL.
Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (MAFMC); Public Meeting
Document Number: 2012-31356
Type: Notice
Date: 2012-12-31
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
The Scientific and Statistical Committee (SSC) of the Mid- Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) will hold a meeting.
Fisheries of the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, and South Atlantic; Spiny Lobster Fishery of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands; Exempted Fishing Permit
Document Number: 2012-31324
Type: Notice
Date: 2012-12-28
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
NMFS announces the receipt of an application for an exempted fishing permit (EFP) from Dr. David Olsen (St. Thomas Fisherman's Association). If granted, the EFP would authorize contracted commercial fishermen to temporarily possess undersized and berried Caribbean spiny lobster for non-lethal sampling (tagging) during the course of their normal fishing activities. This non-lethal sampling would include implanting a tag on each spiny lobster before releasing the lobster with minimal harm. Data will be collected and analyzed to determine spiny lobster growth and movement patterns, and an attempt will be made to estimate the spiny lobster population size in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Currently, data on U.S. Caribbean spiny lobster life history are limited, particularly growth rates and abundance patterns. Additional life history information would provide the Caribbean Fishery Management Council (Council) and NMFS valuable data that may be used for future management of spiny lobster. The EFP would also seek to temporarily retain a sample number of spiny lobsters at a designated facility for a study to assess tag mortality and retention.
Fisheries of the Exclusive Economic Zone Off Alaska; North Pacific Groundfish and Halibut Observer Program Standard Ex-Vessel Prices
Document Number: 2012-31232
Type: Notice
Date: 2012-12-28
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
NMFS publishes standard ex-vessel prices for groundfish and halibut for the calculation of the observer fee under the North Pacific Groundfish and Halibut Observer Program (Observer Program). This notice is intended to provide information to vessel owners, processors, and registered buyers about the standard ex-vessel prices that will be used to calculate the observer fee liability for landings of groundfish and halibut made in 2013. NMFS will send invoices to processors and registered buyers subject to the fee by January 15, 2014. Fees are due to NMFS on or before February 15, 2014.
Fisheries of the Exclusive Economic Zone Off Alaska; Reallocation of Pacific Cod in the Central Regulatory Area of the Gulf of Alaska Management Area
Document Number: 2012-31228
Type: Rule
Date: 2012-12-28
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
NMFS is reallocating the projected unused amount of Pacific cod from catcher vessels using trawl gear to vessels using pot gear and catcher vessels less than 50 feet length overall using hook-and-line gear in the Central Regulatory Area of the Gulf of Alaska management area. This action is necessary to allow the 2012 total allowable catch of Pacific cod to be harvested.
Fisheries of the Northeastern United States; Bluefish Fishery; Quota Transfer
Document Number: 2012-31216
Type: Rule
Date: 2012-12-28
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
NMFS announces that the State of Florida is transferring a portion of its 2012 commercial bluefish quota to the State of New York. By this action, NMFS adjusts the quotas and announces the revised commercial quota for each state involved.
Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council; Public Meeting
Document Number: 2012-31150
Type: Notice
Date: 2012-12-28
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council will convene a meeting of the Socioeconomic Scientific and Statistical Committee.
Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council; Public Meeting
Document Number: 2012-31149
Type: Notice
Date: 2012-12-28
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council will convene scoping meetings on addressing issues on regional management of recreational red snapper, including locally optimal management measures, allocation, and regional boundaries.
Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council; Public Hearings
Document Number: 2012-31148
Type: Notice
Date: 2012-12-28
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) will hold public hearings on January 15, 16, and 17, 2013 to allow for public input on the potential designation of the State of Delaware's five artificial reef sites located in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) as Special Management Zones (SMZs) under provisions of Amendment 9 to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery Management Plan (FMP).
Endangered and Threatened Species; Threatened Status for the Beringia and Okhotsk Distinct Population Segments of the Erignathus barbatus nauticus Subspecies of the Bearded Seal
Document Number: 2012-31068
Type: Rule
Date: 2012-12-28
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
We, NMFS, issue a final determination to list the Beringia and Okhotsk distinct populations segments (DPSs) of the Erignathus barbatus nauticus subspecies of the bearded seal (Erignathus barbatus) as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). We will propose to designate critical habitat for the Beringia DPS in a future rulemaking. To assist us with this effort, we solicit information that may be relevant to the designation of critical habitat for the Beringia DPS. In light of public comments and upon further review, we are withdrawing the proposed ESA section 4(d) protective regulations for the Beringia and Okhotsk DPSs because we have determined that such regulations are not necessary or advisable for the conservation of the Beringia and Okhotsk DPSs at this time. Given their current population sizes, the long-term nature of the primary threat to these DPSs (habitat alteration stemming from climate change), and the existing protections under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, it is unlikely that the proposed protective regulations would provide appreciable conservation benefits.
Endangered and Threatened Species; Threatened Status for the Arctic, Okhotsk, and Baltic Subspecies of the Ringed Seal and Endangered Status for the Ladoga Subspecies of the Ringed Seal
Document Number: 2012-31066
Type: Rule
Date: 2012-12-28
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
We, NMFS, issue a final determination to list the Arctic (Phoca hispida hispida), Okhotsk (Phoca hispida ochotensis), and Baltic (Phoca hispida botnica) subspecies of the ringed seal (Phoca hispida) as threatened and the Ladoga (Phoca hispida ladogensis) subspecies of the ringed seal as endangered under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). We will propose to designate critical habitat for the Arctic ringed seal in a future rulemaking. To assist us in this effort, we solicit information that may be relevant to the designation of critical habitat for Arctic ringed seals. In light of public comments and upon further review, we are withdrawing the proposed ESA section 4(d) protective regulations for threatened subspecies of the ringed seal because we have determined that such regulations are not necessary or advisable for the conservation of the Arctic, Okhotsk, or Baltic subspecies of the ringed seal at this time. Given their current population sizes, the long-term nature of the primary threat to these subspecies (habitat alteration stemming from climate change), and the existing protections under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, it is unlikely that the proposed protective regulations would provide appreciable conservation benefits.
2013 Annual Determination for Sea Turtle Observer Requirement
Document Number: 2012-30966
Type: Notice
Date: 2012-12-26
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is providing notification that the agency will not identify additional fisheries to observe on the Annual Determination (AD) for 2013, pursuant to its authority under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Through an AD, NMFS identifies U.S. fisheries operating in the Atlantic Ocean, Gulf of Mexico, and Pacific Ocean that will be required to take observers upon NMFS' request. The purpose of observing identified fisheries is to learn more about sea turtle interactions in a given fishery, evaluate existing measures to prevent or reduce prohibited sea turtle takes, and to determine whether additional measures to implement the prohibition against sea turtle takes may be necessary. Fisheries identified in the 2010 AD (see Table 1) remain on the AD and are therefore required to carry observers upon NMFS' request until December 31, 2014.
Control Date for Qualifying Landings History in the Central Gulf of Alaska Trawl Groundfish Fisheries
Document Number: 2012-30962
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2012-12-26
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
At the request of the North Pacific Fishery Management Council (Council), this notice announces a control date of December 31, 2012, that may be used as a reference for future management actions applicable to, but not limited to, qualifying landings and permit history for an allocation-based management or catch share program in the Central Gulf of Alaska (GOA) trawl groundfish fisheries. This date corresponds to the end of the fishing year for this fishery, so that the full catch history for 2012 may be considered in any such future management actions. We also expect that this notice will publish close to the control date of December 31, 2012, and so will not either prompt speculation in advance of the control date, or disadvantage any fishers regarding their fishing activity after the control date, but before publication. This notice is intended to promote awareness of possible rulemaking and provide notice to the public that any accumulation of landings history in the Central GOA trawl groundfish fisheries occurring after the control date may not be credited for purposes of making any allocation under a future management program. This notice is also intended to discourage speculative entry into the fisheries while the Council considers whether and how allocations of fishing privileges should be developed under a future management program.
Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; 2013 Atlantic Shark Commercial Fishing Season
Document Number: 2012-30961
Type: Rule
Date: 2012-12-26
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
This final rule establishes the opening dates and quotas for the 2013 fishing season for the Atlantic commercial shark fisheries (sandbar sharks, non-sandbar large coastal sharks, blue sharks, porbeagle sharks, and pelagic sharks (other than porbeagle and blue sharks), non-blacknose small coastal sharks, or blacknose sharks). Baseline quotas are adjusted as required based on any over- and/or underharvests experienced during the 2011 and 2012 Atlantic commercial shark fishing seasons. We used previously-implemented regulatory criteria that contain adaptive management measures to determine the opening dates. We also plan to use these measures throughout the fishing year for inseason adjustments to the shark retention limits, as appropriate, to provide, to the extent practicable, fishing opportunities for commercial shark fishermen in all regions and areas. These actions are expected to provide fishing opportunities for commercial shark fishermen in the northwestern Atlantic, including the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean. In addition, we are keeping the porbeagle shark quota closed in 2013 due to overharvests from 2011 and 2012 that resulted in no quota availability for 2013.
Hydrographic Services Review Panel
Document Number: 2012-30926
Type: Notice
Date: 2012-12-26
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
This notice responds to the Hydrographic Service Improvements Act Amendments of 2002, Public Law 107-372, which requires the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), to solicit nominations (on a yearly basis) for membership on the Hydrographic Services Review Panel (HSRP). The HSRP, a Federal advisory committee, advises the Administrator on matters related to the responsibilities and authorities set forth in section 303 of the Hydrographic Services Improvement Act of 1998 (as amended) and such other appropriate matters as the Administrator refers to the Panel for review and advice. The Act states, ``the voting members of the Panel shall be individuals who, by reason of knowledge, experience, or training, are especially qualified in one or more of the disciplines and fields relating to hydrographic data and hydrographic services, marine transportation, port administration, vessel pilotage, coastal and fishery management, and other disciplines as determined appropriate by the Administrator.'' The NOAA Administrator is seeking to broaden the areas of expertise represented on the Panel and encourages individuals with expertise in navigation data, products and services; coastal management; fisheries management; coastal and marine spatial planning; geodesy; water levels; and other science-related fields to apply for Panel membership. To apply for membership on the Panel, applicants should submit a current resume as indicated in the ADDRESSES section. A cover letter highlighting specific areas of expertise relevant to the purpose of the Panel is helpful, but not required. NOAA is an equal opportunity employer.
Endangered and Threatened Species; Take of Anadromous Fish
Document Number: 2012-30836
Type: Notice
Date: 2012-12-26
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Notice is hereby given that NMFS has received a scientific research permit application request relating to salmonids listed under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). The proposed research program is intended to increase knowledge of the species and to help guide management and conservation efforts. The applications and related documents may be viewed online at: https://apps.nmfs.noaa.gov/preview/ previewopenforcomment.cfm. These documents are also available upon written request or by appointment by contacting NMFS by phone (707) 575-6097 or fax (707) 578-3435.
Fisheries of the Exclusive Economic Zone Off Alaska; Pacific Salmon
Document Number: 2012-30839
Type: Rule
Date: 2012-12-21
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
NMFS issues regulations to implement Amendment 12 to the Fishery Management Plan for Salmon Fisheries in the EEZ off the Coast of Alaska (FMP). Amendment 12 comprehensively revises and updates the FMP to reflect the North Pacific Fishery Management Council's (Council) salmon management policy and to comply with Federal law. This action is necessary to revise specific regulations and remove obsolete regulations in accordance with the modifications in Amendment 12. This action promotes the goals and objectives of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, the FMP, and other applicable laws.
Endangered and Threatened Species; Take of Anadromous Fish
Document Number: 2012-30834
Type: Notice
Date: 2012-12-21
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
NMFS has evaluated the joint resource management plan (RMP), represented by five Hatchery and Genetic Management Plans (HGMPs), submitted by the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife to NMFS pursuant to the limitation on take prohibitions for actions conducted under Limit 6 of the ESA 4(d) Rule for salmon and steelhead promulgated under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). The plans specify the propagation of five species of salmon and steelhead in the Elwha River of Washington state. This document serves to notify the public that NMFS, by delegated authority from the Secretary of Commerce, has determined pursuant to Limit 6 of the 4(d) rule for salmon and steelhead that implementing and enforcing the RMP will not appreciably reduce the likelihood of survival and recovery of the Puget Sound Chinook salmon and Puget Sound steelhead.
Fisheries of the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, and South Atlantic; Reef Fish Fishery of the Gulf of Mexico; 2013 Commercial and Recreational Quotas for Red Snapper
Document Number: 2012-30832
Type: Rule
Date: 2012-12-21
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
NMFS sets the 2013 commercial and recreational quotas for red snapper in the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of the Gulf of Mexico (Gulf) through this temporary rule. NMFS has determined that the allowable biological catch (ABC) for red snapper in 2012 has been exceeded. Therefore, NMFS is maintaining the commercial and recreational quotas for red snapper in 2013 at the 2012 level. The intent of this action is to help achieve optimum yield (OY) for the Gulf red snapper resource without increasing the risk of red snapper experiencing overfishing.
Fisheries of the Northeastern United States; Summer Flounder Fishery; Commercial Quota Harvested for the State of New Jersey
Document Number: 2012-30831
Type: Rule
Date: 2012-12-21
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
NMFS announces that the 2012 summer flounder commercial quota allocated to the State of New Jersey has been harvested. Vessels issued a commercial Federal fisheries permit for the summer flounder fishery may not land summer flounder in New Jersey for the remainder of calendar year 2012, unless additional quota becomes available through a transfer from another state. Regulations governing the summer flounder fishery require publication of this notification to advise New Jersey that the quota has been harvested and to advise vessel permit holders and dealer permit holders that no Federal commercial quota is available for landing summer flounder in New Jersey.
New England Fishery Management Council (NEFMC); Public Meeting
Document Number: 2012-30766
Type: Notice
Date: 2012-12-21
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
The New England Fishery Management Council (Council) is scheduling a public meeting of its Scientific and Statistical Committee (SSC) to consider actions affecting New England fisheries in the exclusive economic zone (EEZ). Recommendations from this group will be brought to the full Council for formal consideration and action, if appropriate.
Pacific Fishery Management Council; Public Meeting
Document Number: 2012-30765
Type: Notice
Date: 2012-12-21
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
The Pacific Fishery Management Council's (Pacific Council) Highly Migratory Species Management Team (HMSMT) will hold a work session, which is open to the public.
New England Fishery Management Council; Public Meeting
Document Number: 2012-30730
Type: Notice
Date: 2012-12-21
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
The New England Fishery Management Council (Council) is scheduling a public meeting of its Herring Advisory Panel on January 16, 2013 to consider actions affecting New England fisheries in the exclusive economic zone (EEZ). Recommendations from this group will be brought to the full Council for formal consideration and action, if appropriate.
New England Fishery Management Council; Public Meeting
Document Number: 2012-30728
Type: Notice
Date: 2012-12-21
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
The New England Fishery Management Council (Council) is scheduling a public meeting of its Herring Oversight Committee on January 17, 2013 to consider actions affecting New England fisheries in the exclusive economic zone (EEZ). Recommendations from this group will be brought to the full Council for formal consideration and action, if appropriate.
Fisheries of the South Atlantic; Southeast Data, Assessment and Review (SEDAR); Data Webinar for South Atlantic Gray Triggerfish (Balistes capriscus
Document Number: 2012-30727
Type: Notice
Date: 2012-12-21
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
The SEDAR 32 assessments of the South Atlantic stocks of gray triggerfish and blueline tilefish will consist of: A Data Workshop; a series of Assessment Webinars; and a Review Workshop. This notice is for a webinar associated with the Data portion of the SEDAR process. See SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION.
Fisheries of the South Atlantic; Southeast Data, Assessment and Review (SEDAR); Assessment Process Webinars for Caribbean Blue Tang and Queen Triggerfish
Document Number: 2012-30713
Type: Notice
Date: 2012-12-21
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
The SEDAR 30 assessments of the Caribbean blue tang and queen triggerfish will consist of a series of workshops and webinars: This notice is for a webinar associated with the Assessment portion of the SEDAR process. See SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION.
New England Fishery Management Council; Public Meeting
Document Number: 2012-30708
Type: Notice
Date: 2012-12-21
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
The New England Fishery Management Council (Council) is scheduling a public meeting of its Monkfish Advisory Panel on January 9, 2013, to consider actions affecting New England fisheries in the exclusive economic zone (EEZ). Recommendations from this group will be brought to the full Council for formal consideration and action, if appropriate.
Boundary Expansion of Cordell Bank and Gulf of the Farallones National Marine Sanctuaries; Intent To Prepare Draft Environmental Impact Statement; Scoping Meetings
Document Number: 2012-30581
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2012-12-21
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
With this notice, NOAA announces that it is considering whether to expand the boundaries of Cordell Bank and Gulf of the Farallones national marine sanctuaries. NOAA will conduct this review pursuant to section 304(e) of the National Marine Sanctuaries Act, as amended, (NMSA) (16 U.S.C. 1434(e)). As required by the NMSA, the review will include public processes outlined under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA; 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.). NOAA anticipates that the review and potential expansion of existing sanctuary boundaries will be completed within 18 to 24 months.
Fisheries of the Exclusive Economic Zone Off Alaska; Big Skate in the Central Regulatory Area of the Gulf of Alaska
Document Number: 2012-30693
Type: Rule
Date: 2012-12-20
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
NMFS is prohibiting retention of big skate in the Central Regulatory Area of the Gulf of Alaska (GOA). This action is necessary because the 2012 total allowable catch of big skate in the Central Regulatory Area of the GOA has been reached.
Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council; Public Meeting
Document Number: 2012-30664
Type: Notice
Date: 2012-12-20
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council will convene a meeting of the Reef Fish Committee meeting.
Proposed Information Collection; Comment Request; Economic Expenditure Survey of Wreckfish Fishermen in the U.S. South Atlantic Region
Document Number: 2012-30644
Type: Notice
Date: 2012-12-20
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
The Department of Commerce, as part of its continuing effort to reduce paperwork and respondent burden, invites the general public and other Federal agencies to take this opportunity to comment on proposed and/or continuing information collections, as required by the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995.
Fisheries Off West Coast States; West Coast Salmon Fisheries; Amendment 17 to the Salmon Fishery Management Plan
Document Number: 2012-30598
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2012-12-19
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
NMFS proposes regulations to implement Amendment 17 to the Pacific Coast Salmon Fishery Management Plan for Commercial and Recreational Salmon Fisheries off the Coasts of Washington, Oregon, and California (Salmon FMP). Amendment 17, which was transmitted by the Pacific Fishery Management Council (Council) on November 5, 2012, to the Secretary of Commerce (Secretary) for review and approval, revises the maximum fishing mortality threshold (MFMT) for Quillayute fall coho, revises the FMP to correct typographical errors, updates reporting measures to reflect new technology, and updates or removes other obsolete or unnecessary language. The Northwest Regional Administrator has determined that the actions of Amendment 17 have all either been previously analyzed in a NEPA document or qualify for categorical exclusion (CE) from further NEPA analysis under NAO 216-6. NMFS also proposes minor updates to regulations unrelated to Amendment 17.
Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act Provisions; Fisheries of the Northeastern United States; Atlantic Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Fishery
Document Number: 2012-30589
Type: Rule
Date: 2012-12-19
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
This interim final rule reopens a portion of the Georges Bank Closed Area to the harvest of Atlantic surfclams and ocean quahogs. The area has been closed since 1990 due to the presence of toxins known to cause paralytic shellfish poisoning. The reopening is based on a request from the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council and the recent adoption of a testing protocol into the National Shellfish Sanitation Program.
Fisheries of the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, and South Atlantic; Snapper-Grouper Fishery Off the Southern Atlantic States; Amendment 18B
Document Number: 2012-30566
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2012-12-19
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
NMFS proposes regulations to implement Amendment 18B to the Fishery Management Plan (FMP) for the Snapper-Grouper Fishery of the South Atlantic Region (Amendment 18B), as prepared and submitted by the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council). If implemented, this rule would establish a longline endorsement program for the commercial golden tilefish component of the snapper-grouper fishery; establish initial eligibility requirements for a golden tilefish longline endorsement; establish an appeals process; allocate the commercial golden tilefish annual catch limit (ACL) among gear groups; establish a procedure for the transfer of golden tilefish endorsements; modify the golden tilefish trip limits; and establish a trip limit for commercial fishermen who do not receive a golden tilefish longline endorsement. The intent of this rule is to reduce overcapacity in the commercial golden tilefish component of the snapper-grouper fishery.
Schedule of Fees for Access to NOAA Environmental Data, Information, and Related Products and Services
Document Number: 2012-30519
Type: Rule
Date: 2012-12-19
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
In this final rule, NESDIS establishes a new schedule of fees for the sale of its data, information, and related products and services to users. NESDIS is revising the fee schedule that has been in effect since 2011 to ensure that the fees accurately reflect the costs of providing access to the environmental data, information, and related products and services. NESDIS is authorized under 15 U.S.C. 1534 to assess fees, up to fair market value, for access to environmental data, information, and products derived from, collected, and/or archived by NOAA. Other than depreciation, costs to upgrade computer hardware and software systems will not be included in the fees charged to users. NESDIS is updating its schedule of fees for access to NOAA Environmental Data, Information, and Related Products and Services as costs of providing access have changed since 2011.
Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Atlantic Bluefin Tuna Fisheries
Document Number: 2012-30322
Type: Rule
Date: 2012-12-17
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
NMFS is transferring 40 metric tons (mt) of Atlantic bluefin tuna (BFT) quota from the Reserve category to the General category for the remainder of the 2012 fishing year. NMFS also is adjusting the Atlantic tunas General category BFT daily retention limit to two large medium or giant BFT for the January 2013 subquota period (i.e., from January 1 through March 31, 2013, or until the available subquota for that period is reached, whichever comes first). This action is based on consideration of the regulatory determination criteria regarding inseason adjustments, and applies to Atlantic tunas General category (commercial) permitted vessels and Highly Migratory Species (HMS) Charter/Headboat category permitted vessels when fishing commercially for BFT.
Fisheries of the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, and South Atlantic; 2012 Commercial Accountability Measure and Closure for Atlantic Wahoo
Document Number: 2012-30218
Type: Rule
Date: 2012-12-14
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
NMFS implements accountability measures (AMs) for the commercial sector for Atlantic wahoo (wahoo) in the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) off the Atlantic states (Maine through the east coast of Florida). Commercial landings for wahoo, as estimated by the Science and Research Director, are projected to reach the commercial annual catch limit (ACL) on December 19, 2012. Therefore, NMFS closes the commercial sector for wahoo on December 19, 2012, for the remainder of the 2012 fishing year, through December 31, 2012. This action is necessary to protect the Atlantic wahoo resource.
Fisheries of the Northeastern United States; Summer Flounder Fishery; Commercial Quota Available for the State of New York To Reopen Fishery
Document Number: 2012-30216
Type: Rule
Date: 2012-12-14
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
NMFS announces that the 2012 summer flounder commercial fishery in the State of New York will be reopened to provide the opportunity for the fishery to fully harvest the available quota. Vessels issued a commercial Federal fisheries permit for the summer flounder fishery may land summer flounder in New York until the quota is fully harvested. Regulations governing the summer flounder fishery require publication of this notification to advise New York that quota remains available and the summer flounder fishery is open to vessel permit holders for landing summer flounder in New York and to inform dealer permit holders in New York that they may purchase summer flounder.
Pacific Fishery Management Council; Public Meeting
Document Number: 2012-30208
Type: Notice
Date: 2012-12-14
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
The Pacific Fishery Management Council's (Pacific Council) Groundfish Management Team (GMT) will hold a week long working meeting, which is open to the public. The GMT will also meet with a subgroup of the Council's Scientific and Statistical Committee (SSC).
International Affairs; U.S. Fishing Opportunities in the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organization Regulatory Area
Document Number: 2012-30136
Type: Notice
Date: 2012-12-14
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
NMFS announces fishing opportunities in the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organization (NAFO) Regulatory Area. This action is necessary to make fishing privileges available on an equitable basis.
Solicitation of Review Editors for the Draft Report of the National Climate Assessment and Development Advisory Committee (NCADAC).
Document Number: 2012-30147
Type: Notice
Date: 2012-12-13
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
NOAA is soliciting nominations for review editors of the National Climate Assessment and Development Advisory Committee (NCADAC) National Climate Assessment 2013 Draft Report. The NCADAC was established under the Department of Commerce in January 2011 and is a federal advisory committee established as per the Federal Advisory Committee Act of 1972.
Fisheries of the Northeastern United States; Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fisheries; Framework Adjustment 7
Document Number: 2012-30119
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2012-12-13
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
NMFS proposes changing the butterfish mortality cap on the longfin squid fishery from a catch cap to a discard cap in Framework Adjustment 7 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fishery Management Plan,. This action also proposes reducing the butterfish mortality cap for the 2013 fishing year by 13 percent (from 4,500 mt to 3,915 mt) to exclude butterfish landings that were previously included in the butterfish mortality cap allocation. The adjustment will maintain the intended function of the butterfish mortality cap by continuing to limit butterfish discards in the longfin squid fishery while accommodating a potential directed butterfish fishery during the 2013 fishing year.
Snapper-Grouper Fishery of the South Atlantic; 2012 Commercial Accountability Measure and Closure for South Atlantic Snowy Grouper
Document Number: 2012-30101
Type: Rule
Date: 2012-12-13
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
NMFS implements accountability measures (AMs) for the commercial sector for snowy grouper in the South Atlantic exclusive economic zone (EEZ). Commercial landings for snowy grouper, as estimated by the Science Research Director, are projected to reach the commercial annual catch limit (ACL) on December 19, 2012. Therefore, NMFS closes the commercial sector for snowy grouper on December 19, 2012, for the remainder of the 2012 fishing year. This action is necessary to prevent overfishing of the South Atlantic snowy grouper resource.
Fisheries of the Exclusive Economic Zone Off Alaska; Allocating Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands King and Tanner Crab Fishery Resources
Document Number: 2012-30099
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2012-12-13
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
The North Pacific Fishery Management Council (Council) submitted Amendment 41 to the Fishery Management Plan for Bering Sea/ Aleutian Islands King and Tanner Crabs (FMP) to NMFS for review. If approved, Amendment 41 would amend the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands Crab Rationalization Program (CR program) by establishing a process for eligible harvesters, processors, and affected communities to request an exemption from regional delivery requirements. Federal regulations require that crab harvested with regionally designated individual fishing quota (IFQ) be landed within the designated region; likewise, crab purchased with regionally designated individual processing quota (IPQ) must be processed within the designated region. Natural and man- made situations can disrupt fishing and processing activity making regional delivery requirements untenable in some seasons. Amendment 41 is necessary to prevent disruption to the CR Program fisheries, while providing for the sustained participation of the communities intended to benefit from the regional delivery requirements. This proposed action is intended to promote the goals and objectives of the Magnuson- Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (Magnuson-Stevens Act), the FMP, and other applicable laws.
Marine Mammals; Issuance of Permits
Document Number: 2012-29971
Type: Notice
Date: 2012-12-12
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Notice is hereby given that individuals and institutions have been issued Letters of Confirmation for activities conducted under the General Authorization for Scientific Research on marine mammals. See SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION for a list of names and address of recipients.
Pacific Fishery Management Council; Public Meetings and Hearings
Document Number: 2012-29969
Type: Notice
Date: 2012-12-12
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
The Pacific Fishery Management Council (Pacific Council) has begun its annual preseason management process for the 2013 ocean salmon fisheries. This document announces the availability of Pacific Council documents as well as the dates and locations of Pacific Council meetings and public hearings comprising the Pacific Council's complete schedule of events for determining the annual proposed and final modifications to ocean salmon fishery management measures. The agendas for the March and April 2013 Pacific Council meetings will be published in subsequent Federal Register documents prior to the actual meetings.
International Fisheries; Pacific Tuna Fisheries; Fishing Restrictions in the Eastern Pacific Ocean
Document Number: 2012-29968
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2012-12-12
Agency: Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
NMFS proposes regulations under the Tuna Conventions Act to implement Resolution C-12-09 of the Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission (IATTC) by establishing limits on commercial retention of bluefin tuna by U.S. fishing vessels operating in the Eastern Pacific Ocean in 2012 and 2013. This action is necessary for the United States to satisfy its obligations as a member of the IATTC and to reduce overfishing of the stock.
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