National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration May 27, 2016 – Federal Register Recent Federal Regulation Documents

NMFS is closing the fisheries for commercial blacknose sharks and non-blacknose small coastal sharks (SCS) in the Atlantic region south of 34[deg]00' N. lat. This action is necessary because the commercial landings of Atlantic blacknose sharks for the 2016 fishing season are projected to exceed 80 percent of the available commercial quota as of May 27, 2016, and the blacknose shark and non-blacknose SCS fisheries south of 34[deg]00' N. lat. are quota-linked under current regulations.

The South Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) will hold meetings of the: Habitat Protection and Ecosystem-Based Management Committee; Scientific and Statistical Committee (SSC) Selection Committee (Closed Session); Southeast Data, Assessment and Review (SEDAR) Committee (Partially Closed Session); Advisory Panel Selection Committee; Joint Dolphin Wahoo and Snapper Grouper Committees; Snapper Grouper Committee; Law Enforcement Committee (Partially Closed Session); Spiny Lobster Committee; Protected Resources Committee; Data Collection Committee; Executive Finance Committee; King and Spanish Mackerel Committee; and a meeting of the Full Council. The Council will also hold a formal public comment session. The Council will take action as necessary.

This notice sets forth the schedule and proposed agenda of a forthcoming meeting of the Marine Fisheries Advisory Committee (MAFAC). The members will discuss and provide advice on the NOAA Fisheries Draft National Bycatch Reduction Strategy.