National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration February 28, 2023 – Federal Register Recent Federal Regulation Documents

NMFS proposes to implement management measures described in a framework action under the Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish Resources of the Gulf of Mexico (FMP), as prepared by the Gulf of Mexico (Gulf) Fishery Management Council (Council). If implemented, this proposed rule would revise the commercial and recreational annual catch limits (ACLs) and annual catch targets (ACTs) for red snapper in the Gulf exclusive economic zone (EEZ). The purpose of this proposed rule is to increase the Gulf red snapper ACLs and ACTs consistent with best scientific information available, and to continue to achieve optimum yield (OY) for the stock.

NMFS' Office of Protected Resources (OPR) has received a request from the NMFS Northwest Fisheries Science Center (NWFSC) for authorization to take small numbers of marine mammals incidental to conducting fisheries research, over the course of 5 years from the date of issuance. Pursuant to regulations implementing the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), OPR is announcing receipt of the NWFSC's request for the development and implementation of regulations governing the incidental taking of marine mammals. OPR invites the public to provide information, suggestions, and comments on the NWFSC's application and request.