[Federal Register Volume 75, Number 243 (Monday, December 20, 2010)]
[Unknown Section]
[Pages 79725-79750]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2010-30450]
[[Page 79725]]
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Part IV
Department of Commerce
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###Semiannual Regulatory Agenda###
[[Page 79726]]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)
_______________________________________________________________________
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
Fall 2010 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 (Department), 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 spring 2010
agenda. The purpose of the agenda is to provide information to the
public on regulations currently under review, being proposed, or issued
by the Department. The agenda is intended to facilitate comments and
views by interested members of the public.
The Department's fall 2010 regulatory agenda includes
regulatory activities that are expected to be conducted during the
period October 1, 2010, through September 30, 2011.
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: The Department hereby publishes its fall
2010 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 July 23, 2010, the Office of Management
and Budget issued guidelines and procedures for the preparation and
publication of the fall 2010 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 this edition of the Department's regulatory agenda, a list
of the most important significant regulatory actions and a
Statement of Regulatory Priorities are included in the Regulatory
Plan, which appears in both the online Unified Agenda and in part
II of the issue of the Federal Register that includes the Unified
Agenda.
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, the Department'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. In addition, for
fall editions of the Agenda, the Department's entire Regulatory
Plan will continue to be printed in the Federal Register.
Within the Department, the Office of the Secretary and various
operating units may issue regulations. Operating units, such as the
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the Bureau
of Industry and Security, and the Patent and Trademark Office issue
the greatest share of the Department'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.
[[Page 79727]]
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.
The Department's fall 2010 regulatory agenda follows.
Cameron F. Kerry,
General Counsel.
International Trade Administration--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identifier
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
218 Commercial Availability of Fabric and Yarn............................................ 0625-AA59
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identifier
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
219 Maximize Retention and Monitoring Program in the Shore-Based Pacific Whiting Fishery.. 0648-AR63
220 American Lobster Fishery; Fishing Effort Control Measures To Complement Interstate 0648-AT31
Lobster Management Recommendations by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission.
221 Collection and Use of Tax Identification Numbers From Holders of and Applicants for 0648-AV76
National Marine Fisheries Service Permits.............................................
222 Marine Mammal Protection Act Stranding Regulation Revisions........................... 0648-AW22
223 Amendment 4 to the Atlantic Herring Fishery Management Plan........................... 0648-AW75
224 Allowable Modifications to the Turtle Excluder Device Requirements.................... 0648-AW93
225 Regulatory Amendment To Correct and Clarify Amendment 13 and Subsequent Frameworks of 0648-AW95
the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan....................................
226 Amendment 11 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, Butterfish Fishery Management Plan...... 0648-AX05
227 Amendment 30 to the Fishery Management Plan for Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands King 0648-AX47
and Tanner Crabs Arbitration Regulations..............................................
228 Amendment 3 to the Fishery Management Plan for Queen Conch Resources of Puerto Rico 0648-AY03
and the U.S. Virgin Islands Establishing Compatible Regulations With U.S. Virgin
Islands Territorial Waters............................................................
229 Fisheries Off West Coast States and in the Western Pacific; Klamath River Fall Chinook 0648-AY06
Salmon Rebuilding Plan................................................................
230 Amendment 3 to the Spiny Dogfish Fishery Management Plan.............................. 0648-AY12
231 Maximized Retention Monitoring Program for Catcher Vessels in the Pacific Whiting 0648-AY17
Mothership Fishery in the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery............................
232 Generic Amendment for Annual Catch Limits............................................. 0648-AY22
233 Amendment 14 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fishery Management Plan.. 0648-AY26
234 Fisheries in the Western Pacific; Pelagic Fisheries; Purse Seine Fishing With Fish 0648-AY36
Aggregation Devices...................................................................
235 Amendment 5 to the Atlantic Herring Fishery Management Plan........................... 0648-AY47
236 Amendment 2 to the FMP for the Queen Conch Fishery of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin 0648-AY55
Islands and Amendment 5 to the Reef Fish FMP of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin
Islands...............................................................................
237 Amendment 10 to the Fishery Management Plan for Spiny Lobster in the Gulf of Mexico 0648-AY72
and South Atlantic....................................................................
238 Comprehensive Annual Catch Limits Amendment to the Fishery Management Plan for the 0648-AY73
Snapper Grouper Fishery of the South Atlantic Region..................................
239 Amendment 20 to the Snapper Grouper Fishery Management Plan of the South Atlantic 0648-AY74
Region................................................................................
240 Regulatory Amendment To Recover the Administrative Costs of Processing Permit 0648-AY81
Applications..........................................................................
241 Regulatory Amendment To Correct and Clarify Amendment 16 and Subsequent Frameworks of 0648-AY95
the Northeast Multispecies Fisheries Management Plan..................................
242 Fisheries Off West Coast States; Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery; 2011-2012 Biennial 0648-BA01
Specifications and Management Measures................................................
243 2011 Specifications for the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fishery.......... 0648-BA03
244 Fishing Capacity Reduction Program for the Southeast Alaska Purse Seine Salmon Fishery 0648-BA13
245 Potential Revisions to the Turtle Excluder Device Requirements........................ 0648-AV04
246 Marine Mammal Protection Act Permit Regulation Revisions.............................. 0648-AV82
247 Take and Import Marine Mammals: Take of Marine Mammals Incidental to Routine 0648-AW59
Operations of 13 Power Generating Stations in Central and Southern California.........
248 Reduce Sea Turtle Bycatch in Atlantic Trawl Fisheries................................. 0648-AY61
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[[Page 79728]]
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identifier
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
249 Amending Regulations for the Pacific Halibut, Sablefish, and Pollock Fisheries 0648-AV33
Conducted Under the Western Alaska Community Development Quota Program................
250 Certification of Nations Whose Fishing Vessels Are Engaged in Illegal, Unreported, and 0648-AV51
Unregulated Fishing or Bycatch of Protected Living Marine Resources (Reg Plan Seq No.
28)...................................................................................
251 Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Reauthorization Act Environmental 0648-AV53
Review Procedure......................................................................
252 Revise Regulations Governing the North Pacific Groundfish Observer Program............ 0648-AW24
253 Revoke Inactive Quota Share and Annual Individual Fishing Quota From a Holder of Quota 0648-AX91
Share Under the Pacific Halibut and Sablefish Fixed Gear Individual Fishing Quota
Program...............................................................................
254 Regulatory Amendment to the Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish Fishery of 0648-AY05
Puerto Rico Modifying the Bajo de Sico Seasonal Closure...............................
255 Amendment 17A to the Fishery Management Plan for the Snapper Grouper Fishery of the 0648-AY10
South Atlantic Region.................................................................
256 Amendment 17B to the Fishery Management Plan for the Snapper Grouper Fishery of the 0648-AY11
South Atlantic Region.................................................................
257 Amendment 94 for Bering Sea Modified Nonpelagic Trawl Gear Requirements, St. Matthew 0648-AY34
Island Habitat Conservation Area Revision, and Modified Gear Trawl Zone...............
258 Regulatory Amendment to Revise Charter Halibut Logbook Submission Requirements at 50 0648-AY38
CFR part 300..........................................................................
259 Addendum IV to the Weakfish Interstate Management Plan--Bycatch Trip Limit............ 0648-AY41
260 Vessel Capacity Limits in the Purse Seine Fishery in the Eastern Pacific Ocean........ 0648-AY75
261 Emergency Rule To Re-Open the Recreational Red Snapper Season in the Gulf of Mexico... 0648-BA06
262 Protective Regulations for Killer Whales in the Northwest Region Under the Endangered 0648-AV15
Species Act and Marine Mammal Protection Act..........................................
263 Taking and Importing Marine Mammals; U.S. Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City 0648-AW80
Division Mission Activities...........................................................
264 Rule To Revise the Critical Habitat Designation for the Endangered Leatherback Sea 0648-AX06
Turtle................................................................................
265 Critical Habitat Designation for Cook Inlet Beluga Whale Under the Endangered Species 0648-AX50
Act (Reg Plan Seq No. 29).............................................................
266 Taking of Marine Mammals Incidental to Specified Activities; Taking Marine Mammals 0648-AX86
Incidental to Training Operations Conducted Within the Gulf of Mexico Range Complex...
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
References in boldface appear in The Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register.
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identifier
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
267 Fishery Management Plan for Regulating Offshore Marine Aquaculture in the Gulf of 0648-AS65
Mexico................................................................................
268 Provide Regulations for Permits for Capture, Transport, Import, and Export of 0648-AH26
Protected Species for Public Display, and for Maintaining a Captive Marine Mammal
Inventory.............................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identifier
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
269 South Atlantic Fishery Ecosystem Plan Comprehensive Amendment......................... 0648-AV31
270 Amendment 17 to the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council Snapper Grouper Fishery 0648-AW11
Management Plan.......................................................................
271 Amendment 2 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Queen Conch Fishery of Puerto Rico 0648-AW15
and the U.S. Virgin Islands...........................................................
272 Amendment 3 to the Northeast Skate Complex Fishery Management Plan.................... 0648-AW30
273 Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Atlantic Shark Management Measures................. 0648-AW65
274 Amendment 31 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish Resources of the Gulf of 0648-AX67
Mexico................................................................................
275 Snapper-Grouper Fishery Management Plan of the South Atlantic......................... 0648-AX75
276 Salmon Bycatch Reduction Management Measures for the Fishery Management Plan 91 in the 0648-AX89
Bering Sea Aleutian Islands...........................................................
277 2010 Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Recreational Management Measures....... 0648-AY04
278 2010 to 2012 Atlantic Herring Fishery Specifications and Management Measures.......... 0648-AY14
279 Remove Certain Reporting Requirements Under the Crab Rationalization Program.......... 0648-AY28
280 Framework Adjustment 44 and Specifications for the Northeast Multispecies Fishery 0648-AY29
Management Plan.......................................................................
[[Page 79729]]
281 Framework 21 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan...................... 0648-AY43
282 Amendments 95/96/87 for the BSAI and GOA Groundfish FMPs for BSAI Skates and 0648-AY48
Groundfish Annual Catch Limits and Accountability Measures............................
283 2010 Specifications and Management Measures for the Spiny Dogfish Fishery Management 0648-AY50
Plan..................................................................................
284 Fishing Year 2010 Atlantic Deep-Sea Red Crab Specifications........................... 0648-AY51
285 Regulatory Amendment to the Gulf of Mexico Reef Fish Fishery Management Plan To Set 0648-AY57
2010 Management Measures for Red Snapper..............................................
286 Fisheries Off West Coast States; Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery; Interim 2010 Tribal 0648-AY59
Whiting Regulations...................................................................
287 Fisheries Off West Coast States; West Coast Salmon Fisheries; 2010 Management Measures 0648-AY60
288 2010 Atlantic Bluefin Tuna Quota Specifications....................................... 0648-AY77
289 Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery; Biennial Specifications and Management Measures; 0648-AY82
Inseason Adjustments..................................................................
290 Inseason Adjustment to the FY 2010 Atlantic Deep Sea Red Crab Specifications.......... 0648-AY88
291 Rulemaking To Establish Take Prohibitions for the Threatened Southern Distinct 0648-AV94
Population Segment of North American Green Sturgeon...................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Patent and Trademark Office--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identifier
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
292 Revision of USPTO Fees for Fiscal Year 2011........................................... 0651-AC43
293 Revision of USPTO Fees for Fiscal Year 2012........................................... 0651-AC44
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Patent and Trademark Office--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identifier
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
294 Interim Increase on Patent Fees for Fiscal Year 2011.................................. 0651-AC42
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC) Long-Term Actions
International Trade Administration (ITA)
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
218. COMMERCIAL AVAILABILITY OF FABRIC AND YARN
Legal Authority: PL 106-200, sec 112(b)(5)(B); PL 106-200, sec 211; EO
13191; PL 107-210, sec 3103
Abstract: This rule implements certain provisions of the Trade and
Development Act of 2000 (the Act). Title I of the Act (the African
Growth and Opportunity Act or AGOA), title II of the Act (the United
States-Caribbean Basin Trade Partnership Act or CBTPA), and title XXXI
of the Trade Act of 2002 (the Andean Trade Promotion and Drug
Eradication Act or ATPDEA) provide for quota- and duty-free treatment
for qualifying apparel products from designated beneficiary countries.
AGOA and CBTPA authorize quota- and duty-free treatment for apparel
articles that are both cut (or knit-to-shape) and sewn or otherwise
assembled in one or more designated beneficiary countries from yarn or
fabric that is not formed in the United States or a beneficiary
country, provided it has been determined that such yarn or fabric
cannot be supplied by the domestic industry in commercial quantities in
a timely manner. The President has delegated to the Committee for the
Implementation of Textile Agreements (the Committee), which is chaired
by the Department of Commerce, the authority to determine whether yarn
or fabric cannot be supplied by the domestic industry in commercial
quantities in a timely manner under the AGOA, the ATPDEA, and the
CBTPA, and has authorized the Committee to extend quota- and duty-free
treatment to apparel of such yarn or fabric. The rule provides the
procedure for interested parties to submit a request alleging that a
yarn or fabric cannot be supplied by the domestic industry in
commercial quantities in a timely manner, the procedure for public
comments, and relevant factors that will be considered in the
Committee's determination. The rule also outlines the factors to be
considered by the Committee in extending quota- and duty-free
treatment.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
[[Page 79730]]
Agency Contact: Janet Heinzen
Phone: 202 482-4006
Email: janet_heinzen@ita.doc.gov
RIN: 0625-AA59
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC) Proposed Rule Stage
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
_______________________________________________________________________
NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE
________________________________
<###doc>
219. MAXIMIZE RETENTION AND MONITORING PROGRAM IN THE SHORE-BASED
PACIFIC WHITING FISHERY
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: The Pacific Fishery Management Council (Pacific Council) at
their October 21-25, 1996, meeting in San Francisco, California
addressed the treatment and disposition of salmon in the groundfish
trawl fisheries, specifically the shore-based whiting fishery. At that
meeting, the Pacific Council discussed the retention of salmon in the
shore-based whiting fishery and took action to maintain a viable shore-
based whiting fishery by using exempted fishing permits (EFPs). These
EFPs allowed the shore-based whiting fleet to temporarily deliver
unsorted catch to processing plants and provided for the monitoring of
incidentally taken salmon until a permanent monitoring program could be
implemented. In keeping with the Pacific Council's recommendation, NMFS
is proceeding with implementing a monitoring program for the shore-
based whiting fishery. This action will aid in the sustainable
management of Pacific Coast salmon and groundfish fisheries while
providing an important economic opportunity to those associated with
the harvest, processing, and selling of whiting taken by the shore-
based whiting fleet. The need for implementing a permanent monitoring
program in the shore-based Pacific whiting fishery is to provide for a
full retention fishery by enabling the shore-based whiting fleet,
comprised exclusively of catcher vessels, to deliver unsorted catch to
processing plants. This practice is necessary to ensure that whiting
landings are of market quality, while abiding by Federal groundfish
regulations and those implementing the Pacific Coast salmon and
groundfish fishery management plans (FMPs).
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 02/00/11
NPRM Comment Period End 03/00/11
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Barry Thom, 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-AR63
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
220. AMERICAN LOBSTER FISHERY; FISHING EFFORT CONTROL MEASURES TO
COMPLEMENT INTERSTATE LOBSTER MANAGEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS BY THE ATLANTIC
STATES MARINE FISHERIES COMMISSION
Legal Authority: 16 USC 5101 et seq
Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service announces that it is
considering, and seeking public comment on, revisions to Federal
American lobster regulations for the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ)
associated with effort control measures as recommended for Federal
implementation by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission
(ASFMC) and as outlined in the Interstate Fishery Management Plan
(ISFMP) for American Lobster. This action will evaluate effort control
measures in certain Lobster Conservation Management Areas including:
Limits on future access based on historic participation criteria;
procedures to allow trap transfers among qualifiers and impose a trap
reduction or conservation tax on any trap transfers; and a trap
reduction schedule to meet the goals of the ISFMP.
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 12/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: pat.kurkul@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AT31
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
221. COLLECTION AND USE OF TAX IDENTIFICATION NUMBERS FROM HOLDERS OF
AND APPLICANTS FOR NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE PERMITS
Legal Authority: 31 USC 7701; 16 USC 1801 et seq; 16 USC 1361 et seq;
16 USC 1531 et seq
Abstract: Pursuant to the Debt Collection Improvement Act of 1996 (Debt
Collection Act), the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) will
issue a rule to require that each existing holder of and future
applicant for a permit, license, endorsement, authorization, transfer
or like instrument issued by the agency provide a Taxpayer
Identification Number (TIN) (business, employer identification number
or individual's social security number) and Date of Incorporation or
Date of Birth, as appropriate. Under the Debt Collection Act, NMFS is
required to collect the TIN to report on and collect any delinquent
non-tax debt owed to the Federal Government. NMFS plans to use Date of
Incorporation or Date of Birth information for administrative aspects
of permitting procedures with appropriate confidentiality safeguards
pursuant to the Privacy Act. The rule
[[Page 79731]]
will specify: (a) the particular uses that may be made of the reported
TIN; (b) the effects, if any, of not providing the required
information; (c) how the information will be used to ascertain if the
permit holder or applicant owes delinquent non-tax debt to the
Government pursuant to the Debt Collection Act; (d) the effects on the
permit holder or applicant when such delinquent debts are owed; and (e)
the agency's intended communications with the permit holder or
applicant regarding the relationship of such delinquent debts to its
permitting process and the need to resolve such debts as a basis for
completing permit issuance or renewal. The rule will amend existing
agency permit regulations and contain all appropriate modified and new
collections-of-information pursuant to the Paperwork Reduction Act.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/10
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-AV76
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
222. MARINE MAMMAL PROTECTION ACT STRANDING REGULATION REVISIONS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1379; 16 USC 1382; 16 USC 1421
Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is considering
changes to its implementing regulations (50 CFR 216) governing the
taking of stranded marine mammals under section 109(h), section 112(c),
and Title IV of the Marine Mammal Protection Act and is soliciting
public comment to better inform the process. NMFS 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. This action will be analyzed under the National
Environmental Policy Act with an Environmental Assessment.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
ANPRM 01/31/08 73 FR 5786
ANPRM Comment Period End 03/31/08
NPRM 12/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: David Cottingham, Department of Commerce, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver
Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2322
Fax: 301 713-2521
Email: david.cottingham@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AW22
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
223. AMENDMENT 4 TO THE ATLANTIC HERRING FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: The goal of Amendment 4 is to improve catch monitoring and
ensure compliance with the Reauthorized Magnuson-Stevens Fishery
Conservation and Management Act (MSRA). The management measures
developed in this amendment may address one or more of the following
objectives: (1) To implement measures to improve the long-term
monitoring of catch (landings and bycatch) in the herring fishery; (2)
to implement annual catch limits and accountability measures consistent
with the MSRA; (3) to implement other management measures as necessary
to ensure compliance with the new provisions of the MSRA; (4) to
develop a sector allocation process or other limited access privilege
program for the herring fishery; and (5) in the context of objectives
1-4 (above), to consider the health of the herring resource and the
important role of herring as a forage fish and a predator fish
throughout its range.
The New England Fishery Management Council will develop conservation
and management measures to address the issues identified above and meet
the goals/objectives of the amendment. Any conservation and management
measures developed in this amendment also must comply with all
applicable laws.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Intent 05/08/08 73 FR 26082
NPRM 12/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: pat.kurkul@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AW75
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
224. ALLOWABLE MODIFICATIONS TO THE TURTLE EXCLUDER DEVICE REQUIREMENTS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq
Abstract: NMFS proposes to revise the Turtle Excluder Device (TED)
requirements to allow new materials and modifications to existing
approved TED designs. Specifically, proposed allowable modifications
include the use of flat bar, box pipe, and oval pipe for use in
currently-approved TED grids; an increase in mesh size on escape flaps
from 1-5/8 inches to 2 inches; the use of the Boone single straight cut
and triangular escape openings; specifications on the use of TED grid
brace bars; and the use of the Chauvin Shrimp Kicker to improve shrimp
retention.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 05/00/11
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Michael Barnette, Department of Commerce, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South,
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 551-5794
Email: michael.barnette@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AW93
[[Page 79732]]
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
225. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO CORRECT AND CLARIFY AMENDMENT 13 AND
SUBSEQUENT FRAMEWORKS OF THE NORTHEAST MULTISPECIES FISHERY MANAGEMENT
PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: This action would make corrections and clarifications to the
final rule implementing Amendment 13 to the Northeast Multispecies
Fishery Management Plan, as well as subsequent groundfish actions.
These corrections are administrative in nature and are intended to
correct inaccurate references and other inadvertent errors and to
clarify specific regulations to maintain consistency with the intent of
Amendment 13 and subsequent actions.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: pat.kurkul@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AW95
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
226. AMENDMENT 11 TO THE ATLANTIC MACKEREL, SQUID, BUTTERFISH FISHERY
MANAGEMENT PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: Amendment 11 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, Butterfish
Fishery Management Plan may consider: (1) limited access in the
Atlantic mackerel (mackerel) fishery; (2) implementation of annual
catch limits (ACLs) and accountability measures (AMs) for mackerel and
butterfish required under the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and
Management Reauthorization Act of 2006 (MSRA); (3) updating of the
description and identification of essential fish habitat (EFH) for all
life stages of mackerel, Loligo squid, Illex squid, and butterfish
(including gear impacts on Loligo squid egg EFH); and (4) possible
limitations on at-sea processing of mackerel.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Intent 08/11/08 73 FR 46590
NPRM 02/00/11
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: pat.kurkul@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AX05
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
227. AMENDMENT 30 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR BERING SEA AND
ALEUTIAN ISLANDS KING AND TANNER CRABS ARBITRATION REGULATIONS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1862; PL 109-241; PL 109-479
Abstract: This action would implement Amendment 30 to the Fishery
Management Plan for Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands King and Tanner
Crabs to make minor modifications to the arbitration system used to
settle price and other disputes among harvesters and processors in the
Bering Sea/Aleutian Islands crab rationalization program.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: James Balisger, Regional Administrator, Department of
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, P.O. Box
21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249
Email: james.balsiger@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AX47
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
228. AMENDMENT 3 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR QUEEN CONCH
RESOURCES OF PUERTO RICO AND THE U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS ESTABLISHING
COMPATIBLE REGULATIONS WITH U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS TERRITORIAL WATERS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: At the June 2009 Council meeting, the Caribbean Fishery
Management Council decided to amend the Fishery Management Plan for
Queen Conch Resources of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands
(U.S.V.I.) to establish compatible regulations with U.S.V.I.
territorial regulations. Currently, fishing for and possession of Queen
Conch is prohibited in the Exclusive Economic Zone, with the exception
of an area known as Lang Bank east of St. Croix, which is open to
harvest of Queen Conch from October 1 through June 30. In U.S.V.I.
territorial waters, Queen Conch is managed under a 50,000 pound quota.
This action would implement compatible regulations which will close the
harvest of Queen Conch in federal waters, including Lang Bank, once the
quota has been reached in the U.S.V.I. and the fishery is closed in
territorial waters.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 03/00/11
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Roy E Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 13th Ave South, Saint Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AY03
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
229. FISHERIES OFF WEST COAST STATES AND IN THE WESTERN PACIFIC; KLAMATH
RIVER FALL CHINOOK SALMON REBUILDING PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1854
Abstract: This action would adopt a rebuilding plan for the Klamath
River Fall Chinook salmon (KRFC) stock, which failed to meet
conservation objectives specified in the Fishery Management Plan for
the three year period 2004-2006.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 05/00/11
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable
[[Page 79733]]
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-AY06
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
230. AMENDMENT 3 TO THE SPINY DOGFISH FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: The New England and Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Councils
(Councils) announce their intention to prepare, in cooperation with
NMFS, an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) in accordance with the
National Environmental Policy Act to assess potential effects on the
human environment of alternative measures to address several issues
regarding the Spiny Dogfish Fishery Management Plan (FMP). Issues that
may be addressed include: initiating a Research Set-Aside provision;
specifying the spiny dogfish quota and/or possession limits by sex;
adding a recreational fishery to the FMP; identifying commercial quota
allocation alternatives; and establishing a limited access fishery.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Intent to Begin
Scoping 08/05/09 74 FR 39063
Notice of Intent Comment Period
End 09/04/09
Notice of Intent to Prepare an
EIS 05/13/10 75 FR 26920
NOI Comment Period End 06/01/10
NPRM 05/00/11
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: pat.kurkul@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AY12
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
231. MAXIMIZED RETENTION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR CATCHER VESSELS IN THE
PACIFIC WHITING MOTHERSHIP FISHERY IN THE PACIFIC COAST GROUNDFISH
FISHERY
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: The action would implement a monitoring program for catcher
vessels in the mothership sector of the Pacific whiting fishery off the
coast of Washington, Oregon, and California. The monitoring program
would consist of a camera and other sensors to monitor fishing activity
in order to maintain the integrity of the maximized retention
requirements found at 50 CFR 660.306 (f)(7). Maximized retention
encourages full retention of all catch while allowing minor discard
events to occur. This ensures that unsorted catch is available for
observers to monitor on board the mothership processors and thereby
maintains the integrity of data collected under the observer program.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Frank Lockhart, Program Analyst, Department of
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand
Point Way NE., Seattle, WA 98115
Phone: 206 526-6142
Fax: 206 526-6736
Email: frank.lockhart@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AY17
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
232. GENERIC AMENDMENT FOR ANNUAL CATCH LIMITS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: The generic amendment is intended to modify five of the Gulf
of Mexico Fishery Management Council's Fishery Management Plans (FMPs).
These include FMPs for: Reef Fish Resources, Shrimp, Stone Crab, Coral
and Coral Reef Resources, and Red Drum. NMFS and the Council will
develop these Annual Catch Limits (ACLs) in co-operation with the
Scientific and Statistical Committee and the Southeast Fisheries
Science Center. NMFS, in collaboration with the Council, will develop a
Draft Environmental Impact Statement to evaluate alternatives and
actions for the ACLs. Some examples of these actions include:
establishing sector specific ACLs, selecting levels of risk associated
with species yields, considering removal or withdrawal of species from
FMPs, and delegating species or species assemblages to state
regulators.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Intent 08/04/09 74 FR 47206
NPRM 05/00/11
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Roy E Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 13th Ave South, Saint Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AY22
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
233. AMENDMENT 14 TO THE ATLANTIC MACKEREL, SQUID, AND BUTTERFISH
FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: The purpose of Amendment 14 is to consider catch shares in
the Loligo and Illex fisheries and monitoring/mitigation for river
herring bycatch in mackerel, squid and butterfish (MSB) fisheries.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 03/00/11
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: pat.kurkul@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AY26
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
234. FISHERIES IN THE WESTERN PACIFIC; PELAGIC FISHERIES; PURSE SEINE
FISHING WITH FISH AGGREGATION DEVICES
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: The Western Pacific Council is amending the Pelagics Fishery
[[Page 79734]]
Ecosystem Plan (FEP) to (1) define fish aggregating devices (FADs) as
purposefully-deployed or instrumented floating objects, (2) require
FADs to be registered, and (3) prohibit purse seine fishing using FADs
in the US EEZ of the western Pacific. The objective of this action is
to appropriately balance the needs and concerns of the western Pacific
pelagic fishing fleets and associated fishing communities with the
conservation of tuna stocks in the western Pacific.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 03/00/11
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator,
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI
96814
Phone: 808 944-2207
Fax: 808 973-2941
Email: alvin.katekaru@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AY36
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
235. AMENDMENT 5 TO THE ATLANTIC HERRING FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: Amendment 5 to the Atlantic Herring Fishery Management Plan
will consider: catch monitoring program; interactions with river
herring; access by herring midwater trawl vessels in groundfish closed
areas; and interactions with the mackerel fishery.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/11
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: pat.kurkul@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AY47
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
236. AMENDMENT 2 TO THE FMP FOR THE QUEEN CONCH FISHERY OF PUERTO RICO
AND THE U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS AND AMENDMENT 5 TO THE REEF FISH FMP OF
PUERTO RICO AND THE U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: The Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act
(MSRA: Public Law 94-265), as amended through January 12, 2007,
requires the establishment of annual catch limits (ACLs) and
accountability measures (AMs) during 2010 for all species that are
considered to be overfished or undergoing overfishing. The present
amendment is being promulgated to meet those MSRA mandates as well as
to establish framework procedures with which to effect future changes
to the management plan and to restructure the fisheries management
units for grouper and snapper. Various alternatives are included in the
draft amendment, including maintenance of the status quo for each
action as well as various alternatives regarding the year-sequences
used to establish ACLs and the strategies to be employed to account for
overages and to respond to needed changes in management methods.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 05/00/11
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Roy E Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 13th Ave South, Saint Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AY55
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
237. <> AMENDMENT 10 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR
SPINY LOBSTER IN THE GULF OF MEXICO AND SOUTH ATLANTIC
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: In 2006 the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and
Management Act (MSFCMA) was re-authorized and included a number of
changes to improve conservation of managed fishery resources. Included
in these changes are requirements that the Regional Councils must
establish both a mechanism for specifying annual catch limits (ACLs) at
a level such that overfishing does not occur in the fishery and
accountability measures (AMs) to correct if overages occur.
Accountability measures are management controls to prevent the ACLs
from being exceeded and to correct by either in-season or post-season
measures if they do occur. The Spiny Lobster fishery is jointly managed
by the Gulf and South Atlantic Councils. Amendment 10 to the FMP will
set ACLs and AMs, review current regulations, and implement reasonable
and prudent measures from the Biological Opinion.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Intent 11/00/11
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Roy E Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 13th Ave South, Saint Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AY72
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
238. <> COMPREHENSIVE ANNUAL CATCH LIMITS AMENDMENT TO
THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE SNAPPER GROUPER FISHERY OF THE SOUTH
ATLANTIC REGION
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: The purpose of this amendment is to establish Annual Catch
Limits (ACLs) and Accountability Measures (AMs) for species not
undergoing overfishing, including management measures to reduce the
probability that catches will exceed the stocks' ACLs pursuant to
reauthorized Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act
(Magnuson-Stevens Act) requirements.
Proposed actions include removal of species from the South Atlantic
Snapper Grouper fishery management unit (FMU), designating some Snapper
Grouper species as ecosystem component species, considering multi-
species groupings for specifying ACLs, ACTs, and AMs, specifying
allocations among the commercial, recreational, and for-hire sectors
for species not undergoing overfishing, and modifying
[[Page 79735]]
management measures to limit total mortality to the ACL.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/11
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Roy E Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 13th Ave South, Saint Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AY73
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
239. <> AMENDMENT 20 TO THE SNAPPER GROUPER FISHERY
MANAGEMENT PLAN OF THE SOUTH ATLANTIC REGION
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: Amendment 20 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Snapper
Grouper Fishery of the South Atlantic Region consists of regulatory
actions that focus on modifications to the wreckfish individual
transferable quota (ITQ) program, bringing the program into compliance
with the Reauthorized Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and
Management Act (Magnuson-Stevens Act), and make other administrative,
monitoring, and enforcement changes.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/11
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Roy E Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 13th Ave South, Saint Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AY74
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
240. <> REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO RECOVER THE
ADMINISTRATIVE COSTS OF PROCESSING PERMIT APPLICATIONS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq; 16 USC 1853; 16 USC 1854; 16 USC
3631 et seq; 16 USC 773 et seq; PL 108-447
Abstract: This action amends the fishery management plans of the North
Pacific Fishery Management Council and revises federal regulations at
50 CFR 679 to recover the administrative costs of processing
applications for permits required under those plans.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 01/00/11
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: James Balisger, Regional Administrator, Department of
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, P.O. Box
21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249
Email: james.balsiger@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AY81
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
241. <> REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO CORRECT AND CLARIFY
AMENDMENT 16 AND SUBSEQUENT FRAMEWORKS OF THE NORTHEAST MULTISPECIES
FISHERIES MANAGEMENT PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: This action makes corrections and clarifications to the final
rule implementing Amendment 16 to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery
Management Plan, as well as subsequent groundfish actions. These
corrections are administrative in nature and are intended to correct
inaccurate references and other inadvertent errors and to clarify
specific regulations to maintain consistency with the intent of
Amendment 16 and subsequent actions.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: pat.kurkul@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AY95
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
242. <> FISHERIES OFF WEST COAST STATES; PACIFIC COAST
GROUNDFISH FISHERY; 2011-2012 BIENNIAL SPECIFICATIONS AND MANAGEMENT
MEASURES
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: This rule sets the 2011-2012 harvest specifications and
management measures for groundfish taken in the U.S. exclusive economic
zone off the coasts of Washington, Oregon, and California. This rule
also implements Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery Management Plan
Amendments 16-5 and 23.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Availability 10/01/10 75 FR 60709
Notice of Availability Comment
Period End 11/30/10
NPRM 12/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Frank Lockhart, Program Analyst, Department of
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand
Point Way NE., Seattle, WA 98115
Phone: 206 526-6142
Fax: 206 526-6736
Email: frank.lockhart@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-BA01
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
243. <> 2011 SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE ATLANTIC MACKEREL,
SQUID, AND BUTTERFISH FISHERY
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: NMFS proposes specifications for the 2011 fishing year for
Atlantic mackerel, squid, and butterfish (MSB). Regulations governing
these fisheries require NMFS to publish proposed specifications for the
upcoming fishing year and to provide an opportunity for public comment.
The intent of this action is to fulfill this requirement and to promote
the development and conservation of the MSB resources.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
[[Page 79736]]
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: pat.kurkul@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-BA03
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
244. <> FISHING CAPACITY REDUCTION PROGRAM FOR THE
SOUTHEAST ALASKA PURSE SEINE SALMON FISHERY
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq; 46 USC 53701 et seq; PL 108-447;
PL 109-447; PL 110-161
Abstract: This rule would implement a Capacity Reduction Program for
the Southeast Alaska Purse Seine Salmon Fishery which is a state
controlled fishery. This program is voluntary and holders of valid
limited entry permits issued by the Alaska Commercial Fisheries Entry
Commission to operate in the Southeast Alaska Purse Seine Salmon
Fishery are eligible to participate. Permit holders in the program will
receive up to $23.5 million, in the aggregate, in exchange for
relinquishing permits. NMFS would issue a 30-year loan to finance the
buyback and the loan would be repaid by those harvesters remaining in
the fishery. The intent of this rule is to permanently reduce the most
harvesting capacity in the fishery at the least cost, which should
result in increased harvesting productivity for post-reduction permit
holders participating in the fishery and should improve flexibility in
the conservation and management of the fishery. The rule would also
establish a fee collection system to ensure repayment of the loan.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 01/00/11
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Emily Menashes, Acting Director, Office of Sustainable
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 1315 East West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2234
Email: emily.menashes@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-BA13
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
245. POTENTIAL REVISIONS TO THE TURTLE EXCLUDER DEVICE REQUIREMENTS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1533
Abstract: With this action, the National Marine Fisheries Service
(NMFS) announces that it is considering technical changes to the
requirements for turtle excluder devices (TEDs), and to solicit public
comment. Specifically, NMFS would modify the size of the TED escape
opening currently required in the summer flounder fishery; require the
use of TEDs in the whelk, calico scallop, and Mid-Atlantic scallop
trawl fisheries; require the use of TEDs in flynets; and move the
current northern boundary of the Summer Flounder Fishery-Sea Turtle
Protection Area off Cape Charles, Virginia, to a point farther north.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
ANPRM 02/15/07 72 FR 7382
ANPRM Comment Period End 03/19/07
ANPRM Comment Period Extended 03/19/07 72 FR 12749
NPRM 12/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Roy E Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 13th Ave South, Saint Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AV04
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
246. MARINE MAMMAL PROTECTION ACT PERMIT REGULATION REVISIONS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1374
Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is considering
changes to its implementing regulations (50 CFR 216) governing the
issuance of permits for scientific research and enhancement activities
under Section 104 of the Marine Mammal Protection Act and is soliciting
public comment to better inform the process. NMFS intends to streamline
and clarify general permitting requirements and requirements for
scientific research and enhancement permits, simplify procedures for
transferring marine mammal parts, possibly apply the General
Authorization (GA) to research activities involving Level A harassment
of non-endangered marine mammals, and implement a ``permit application
cycle'' for application submission and processing of all marine mammal
permits. NMFS intends to write regulations for marine mammal
photography permits and is considering whether this activity should be
covered by the GA.
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 End 12/13/07 72 FR 58279
NPRM 05/00/11
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Dr. Michael Payne, Fishery Biologist, Department of
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, P.O. Box
21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7235
Fax: 301 713-2521
Email: michael.payne@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AV82
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
247. TAKE AND IMPORT MARINE MAMMALS: TAKE OF MARINE MAMMALS INCIDENTAL
TO ROUTINE OPERATIONS OF 13 POWER GENERATING STATIONS IN CENTRAL AND
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq
Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) proposes to
govern the take of marine mammals by Level A harassment (injury) and
mortality from 13 power generating stations located on the coast of
central and southern California incidental to routine power plant
operations for a period of five years, under the authority of section
101(a)(5)(A) of the Marine Mammal Protection Act. Under that authority
NMFS also must prescribe mitigation, monitoring, and reporting
requirements in connection with take authorizations.
Incidental takings of marine mammals, including California sea lions,
harbor seals, and northern elephant seals can and do occur as a result
of the operation of circulating water systems (CWS) by the electrical
power
[[Page 79737]]
generation plants located on the coast of central and southern
California described in the incidental take authorization applications.
These CWS are an integral part of these power stations that provide
continuous cooling water necessary for power generation and safety of
the facility. The typical location of entrainment occurs as water is
taken into the plant via submerged structures or canals. Intake
velocities may be strong enough to pull live animals into the plant,
particularly if they are actively seeking prey in the vicinity of
intake structures. Confinement within intake plumbing could lead to
confusion and panic, especially for young, immature animals. If the
animal is unable to escape, it could (1) drown or become fatally
injured in transit between intake and large sedimentation basins within
the plants known as forebays; (2) survive the transit and succumb in
the forebay due to exhaustion, illness, or disease; or (3) survive the
transit and be rescued by plant personnel using cages specially
designed for such an activity. It is also likely that previously dead
animals may end up entrained as well.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 05/00/11
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Dr. Michael Payne, Fishery Biologist, Department of
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, P.O. Box
21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7235
Fax: 301 713-2521
Email: michael.payne@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AW59
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
248. REDUCE SEA TURTLE BYCATCH IN ATLANTIC TRAWL FISHERIES
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq
Abstract: NMFS is initiating a rulemaking action to reduce injury and
mortality to endangered and threatened sea turtles resulting from
incidental take, or bycatch, in trawl fisheries in the Atlantic waters.
NMFS will likely address the size of the turtle excluder device (TED)
escape opening currently required in the summer flounder trawl fishery,
the definition of a summer flounder trawler, and the use of TEDs in
this fishery; the use of TEDs in the croaker and weakfish flynet,
whelk, Atlantic sea scallop, and calico scallop trawl fisheries of the
Atlantic Ocean; and new seasonal and temporal boundaries for TED
requirements. In addition, this rule will address the definition of the
Gulf Area applicable to the shrimp trawl fishery in the southeast
Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico. The purpose of the rule is to aid in the
protection and recovery of listed sea turtle populations by reducing
mortality in trawl fisheries through the use of TEDs.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Alexis Gutierrez, Department of Commerce, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver
Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2322
Email: alexis.gutierrez@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AY61
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC) Final Rule Stage
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
_______________________________________________________________________
NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE
________________________________
<###doc>
249. AMENDING REGULATIONS FOR THE PACIFIC HALIBUT, SABLEFISH, AND
POLLOCK FISHERIES CONDUCTED UNDER THE WESTERN ALASKA COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT QUOTA PROGRAM
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq; 16 USC 773 et seq; 3631 et seq; PL
108-447
Abstract: NMFS proposes to amend regulations that govern fisheries
managed under the Western Alaska Community Development Quota (CDQ)
Program. These revisions are needed to comply with certain changes made
to the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act
(Magnuson-Stevens Act) in 2006. Proposed changes include revising
regulations associated with recordkeeping, vessel licensing, catch
retention requirements, and fisheries observer requirements to ensure
that they are no more restrictive than the regulations in effect for
comparable non-CDQ fisheries managed under individual fishing quotas or
cooperative allocations. In addition, NMFS proposes to remove CDQ
Program regulations that now are inconsistent with the Magnuson-Stevens
Act, including regulations associated with the CDQ allocation process,
transfer of groundfish CDQ and halibut prohibited species quota, and
the oversight of CDQ groups expenditures.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 07/13/10 75 FR 39892
NPRM Comment Period End 08/12/10
Final Rule 12/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: James Balisger, Regional Administrator, Department of
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, P.O. Box
21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249
Email: james.balsiger@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AV33
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
250. CERTIFICATION OF NATIONS WHOSE FISHING VESSELS ARE ENGAGED IN
ILLEGAL, UNREPORTED, AND UNREGULATED FISHING OR BYCATCH OF PROTECTED
LIVING MARINE RESOURCES
Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 28 in part II of this issue of
the Federal Register.
RIN: 0648-AV51
[[Page 79738]]
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
251. MAGNUSON-STEVENS FISHERY CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT
REAUTHORIZATION ACT ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW PROCEDURE
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq.
Abstract: Section 107 of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and
Management Reauthorization Act (MSRA) (P.L. 109-479) requires NOAA
Fisheries to revise and update agency procedures for complying with the
National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) in context of fishery
management actions. It further requires that NOAA Fisheries consult
with the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) and the Regional
Fishery Management Councils (Councils), and involve the public in the
development of the revised procedures. The MSRA provides that the
resulting procedures will be the sole environmental impact assessment
procedure for fishery management actions, and that they must conform to
the time lines for review and approval of fishery management plans and
plan amendments. They must also integrate applicable environmental
analytical procedures, including the time frames for public input, with
the procedure for the preparation and dissemination of fishery
management plans, plan amendments and other actions taken or approved
pursuant to this Act in order to provide for timely, clear and concise
analysis that is useful to decision makers and the public, reduce
extraneous paperwork, and effectively involve the public.
This rule would revise and update the NMFS procedures for complying
with NEPA 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
Final Action 12/00/10
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
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
252. REVISE REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE NORTH PACIFIC GROUNDFISH OBSERVER
PROGRAM
Legal Authority: 118 Stat 110; 16 USC 773 et seq; 16 USC 1801 et seq;
16 USC 3631 et seq; PL 108-199
Abstract: This rulemaking revises Federal regulations relevant to
numerous administrative and procedural requirements applicable to
observer providers, observers, and industry participating in the North
Pacific Groundfish Observer Program. Specifically, this action would:
modify the current permit issuance process so that observer and
observer provider permit issuance is a discretionary National Marine
Fisheries Service (NMFS) decision; amend current Federal regulations
addressing observer behavior involving drugs, alcohol, and physical
sexual conduct to remove NMFS oversight of observer behavior that does
not affect job performance; require that observer providers submit
policies related to these activities and continue to notify NMFS upon
learning of an incident; revise Federal regulations so that observer
providers are allowed to provide observers or technical staff for
purposes of exempted fishing permits, scientific research permits, or
other scientific research activities; revise the definition of fishing
day in Federal regulations; require observer providers to annually
submit detailed economic information to NMFS; specify a date by which
observers who have collected data in the previous fishing year would be
required to be available for debriefing; and implement housekeeping
issues related to errors or clarifications in existing regulations at
50 CFR 679.50.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 09/30/09 74 FR 50155
NPRM Comment Period End 10/31/09
Final Action 12/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: James Balisger, Regional Administrator, Department of
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, P.O. Box
21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249
Email: james.balsiger@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AW24
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
253. REVOKE INACTIVE QUOTA SHARE AND ANNUAL INDIVIDUAL FISHING QUOTA
FROM A HOLDER OF QUOTA SHARE UNDER THE PACIFIC HALIBUT AND SABLEFISH
FIXED GEAR INDIVIDUAL FISHING QUOTA PROGRAM
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq; 16 USC 773
Abstract: This action would amend existing commercial fishing
regulations for the fixed-gear Pacific Halibut and sablefish individual
fishing quota program at 50 CFR 679. The amendment would revoke
inactive quota share unless the quota share permit holder affirmatively
notices NMFS in writing within 60 days of the agency's preliminary
determination of inactivity that they choose to (a) retain the inactive
IFQ quota share, (b) activate the quota share through transfer or by
fishing, or (c) appeal the preliminary determination. Quota share that
is not activated through this process and is revoked would be
proportionally distributed to the quota share pool. This regulatory
revision is based on the recommendations of the North Pacific Fishery
Management Council in June 2006 and again in February 2009. Amending
the regulations would improve the efficiency of the Pacific Halibut and
Sablefish IFQ program and augment operational flexibility of
participating fisherman.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 08/23/10 75 FR 51741
NPRM Comment Period End 09/22/10
Final Rule 12/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: James Balisger, Regional Administrator, Department of
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, P.O. Box
21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249
Email: james.balsiger@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AX91
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
254. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE REEF
FISH FISHERY OF PUERTO RICO MODIFYING THE BAJO DE SICO SEASONAL CLOSURE
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
[[Page 79739]]
Abstract: The rule would modify the seasonal closure of Bajo de Sico,
an area off the west coast of Puerto Rico that has been identified as
critically important habitat for commercially exploited snappers and
groupers. Current regulations prohibit all fishing activities,
including Highly Migratory Species (HMS) from December 1 through the
end of February each year as well as a year-round prohibition of bottom
tending gear (i.e., traps, pots, gillnets, trammel nets, and bottom
longlines). The rule would prohibit fishing for and possession of
council managed species, including reef fish and spiny lobster, from
October 1 through March 31. Queen Conch and coral reef resources are
already prohibited year-round and will not be affected by this rule.
Restrictions on bottom-tending gear will also not be affected by this
rule. A year-round prohibition of anchoring within Bajo de Sico will
also be implemented through this rule to provide further protection of
established essential fish habitat.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 07/28/10 75 FR 44209
NPRM Comment Period End 08/27/10
Final Action 12/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Roy E Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 13th Ave South, Saint Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AY05
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
255. AMENDMENT 17A TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE SNAPPER
GROUPER FISHERY OF THE SOUTH ATLANTIC REGION
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: The most recent red snapper stock assessment, completed
February 2008, determined the species was undergoing overfishing and
was overfished. Biomass shows a sharp decline during the 1950's and
1960's, continued decline during the 1970's, and stable but low levels
since 1980. The South Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) is
required by the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management
Act (Magnuson-Stevens Act) to implement rebuilding plans for overfished
species. Therefore, Amendment 17A is being developed to establish a
rebuilding plan and updated management reference points for red snapper
in the South Atlantic. Additionally, revisions to the Magnuson-Stevens
Act in 2006 require that by 2010, Fishery Management Plans (FMPs) for
fisheries determined by the Secretary to be subject to overfishing
establish a mechanism for specifying Annual Catch Limits (ACLs) at a
level that prevents overfishing and does not exceed the recommendations
of the respective Councils Scientific and Statistical Committee or
other established peer review processes. These FMPs are also required
to establish within this timeframe measures to ensure accountability.
To comply with this Magnuson-Stevens Act requirement, Amendment 17A
would establish an ACL and accountability measures for red snapper, and
implement management measures to ensure harvest does not exceed the
ACL.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Availability 07/29/10 75 FR 44753
NPRM 08/13/10 75 FR 49447
Notice of Availability Comment
Period End 09/27/10
NPRM Comment Period End 09/27/10
Final Action 12/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Roy E Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 13th Ave South, Saint Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AY10
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
256. AMENDMENT 17B TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE SNAPPER
GROUPER FISHERY OF THE SOUTH ATLANTIC REGION
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: Revisions to the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and
Management Act (Magnuson-Stevens Act) in 2006 require that by 2010,
Fishery Management Plans (FMPs) for fisheries determined by the
Secretary to be subject to overfishing establish a mechanism for
specifying Annual Catch Limits (ACLs) at a level that prevents
overfishing and does not exceed the recommendations of the respective
Council's Scientific and Statistical Committee or other established
peer review processes. These FMPs are also required to establish within
this timeframe measures to ensure accountability. To comply with this
Magnuson-Stevens Act requirement Amendment 17B would: (1) Establish
ACLs and accountability measures for snowy grouper, speckled hind,
Warsaw grouper, black grouper, red grouper, golden tilefish, black sea
bass, gag, and vermilion snapper; (2) implement management measures to
ensure harvest of these snapper-grouper species does not exceed the
ACLs; (3) specify allocations for golden tilefish; and (4) modify the
current snapper-grouper framework procedure to include ACLs, AMs, and
annual catch targets.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Availability 09/22/10 75 FR 57734
NPRM 10/12/10 75 FR 62488
Notice of Availability Comment
Period End 11/22/10
NPRM Comment Period End 11/26/10
Final Rule 12/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Roy E Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 13th Ave South, Saint Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AY11
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
257. AMENDMENT 94 FOR BERING SEA MODIFIED NONPELAGIC TRAWL GEAR
REQUIREMENTS, ST. MATTHEW ISLAND HABITAT CONSERVATION AREA REVISION, AND
MODIFIED GEAR TRAWL ZONE
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq; 16 USC 3631 et seq; 16 USC 773 et
seq; PL 108-447
Abstract: This regulation implements Amendment 94 to the Fishery
[[Page 79740]]
Management Plan for Groundfish of the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands
Management Area (FMP). The regulation would require gear modification
for nonpelagic trawl vessels targeting flatfish in the Bering Sea
subarea. The modified gear would have elevating devices on trawl sweeps
to raise the sweeps off the seafloor and reduce the potential impact on
bottom habitat. This action also would change the Southern boundary of
the Northern Bering Sea Research Area to create the Modified Gear Trawl
Zone where anyone fishing with nonpelagic trawl gear must use modified
trawl sweeps. The regulation also would change the eastern boundary of
the Saint Matthew Island Habitat Conservation Area to further protect
blue king crab habitat.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Availability 06/29/10 75 FR 37371
NPRM 07/15/10 75 FR 41123
Notice of Availability Comment
Period End 08/30/10
NPRM Comment Period End 08/30/10
Final Rule 10/06/10 75 FR 61642
Final Action Effective 01/20/11
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: James Balisger, Regional Administrator, Department of
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, P.O. Box
21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249
Email: james.balsiger@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AY34
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
258. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO REVISE CHARTER HALIBUT LOGBOOK SUBMISSION
REQUIREMENTS AT 50 CFR PART 300
Legal Authority: 16 USC 2431 et seq; 31 USC 9701 et seq
Abstract: Clarifies and revises the charter halibut logbook submission
requirements at 50 CFR part 300 to better match the submission schedule
and reporting format of the Alaska Department of Fish and Game
saltwater charter logbook.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 04/27/10 75 FR 22070
NPRM Comment Period End 05/12/10
Final Rule 12/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: James Balisger, Regional Administrator, Department of
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, P.O. Box
21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249
Email: james.balsiger@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AY38
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
259. ADDENDUM IV TO THE WEAKFISH INTERSTATE MANAGEMENT PLAN--BYCATCH
TRIP LIMIT
Legal Authority: 16 USC 5101
Abstract: NMFS proposes regulations that would modify management
restrictions in the Federal weakfish fishery in a manner consistent
with the Commission's Weakfish Management Board's (Board) approved
Addendum IV to Amendment 4 to the ISFMP for Weakfish. In short, the
proposed Federal regulatory change would decrease the incidental catch
allowance for weakfish in the EEZ 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
NPRM Comment Period End 06/30/10
Final Action 12/00/10
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
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
260. <> VESSEL CAPACITY LIMITS IN THE PURSE SEINE
FISHERY IN THE EASTERN PACIFIC OCEAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 971 et seq; 16 USC 951 to 961
Abstract: NMFS is proposing regulations under authority of the Tuna
Conventions Act of 1950 that would revise the vessel capacity limit in
the purse seine fishery operating in the eastern Pacific Ocean (EPO) so
it is consistent with the amount authorized by the Inter-American
Tropical Tuna Commission (IATTC) under IATTC Resolution C-02-03. For
the United States, a vessel capacity limit of 31,775 cubic meters, or
27,147 metric tons (mt) would be established per Resolution C-02-03.
Currently, the U.S. fleet capacity limit is 8,969 mt, or 10,498 cubic
meters. This revision would ensure that the United States is satisfying
its obligations as a member of the IATTC and not exceeding its allotted
capacity in the fishery, and the U.S. industry is not being
unreasonably burdened if U.S. participation in the fishery in the EPO
increased in the future. While an increase in U.S. participation in
this fishery would not be anticipated since currently only two purse
seine vessels are on the IATTC Vessel Register and when excess U.S.
capacity has been available in the past there has not been a surge to
use this capacity by outside vessels, there is a potential for an
increase in fishing effort and resultant fishing mortality to target
(i.e., yellowfin, skipjack, and bigeye tunas) and non-target species in
the purse seine fishery operating in the EPO. In addition, there is
also the potential for insignificant, positive socioeconomic impacts if
the proposed action led to an increase in catch and revenue for
fishermen participating in the fishery.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 09/03/10 75 FR 54078
NPRM Comment Period End 10/04/10
Final Action 12/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Mark Helvey, Assistant Regional Administrator for
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and
[[Page 79741]]
Atmospheric Administration, 501 West Ocean Boulevard, Long Beach, CA
90802
Phone: 562 980-4040
Fax: 562 980-4047
Email: mark.helvey@noaa.gov
Heidi Hermsmeyer, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration, 501 West Ocean Boulevard, Long Beach, CA
90802
Phone: 562 980-4036
Fax: 562 980-4047
Email: heidi.hermsmeyer@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AY75
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
261. <> EMERGENCY RULE TO RE-OPEN THE RECREATIONAL RED
SNAPPER SEASON IN THE GULF OF MEXICO
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council (Council) has
requested that NOAA Fisheries Service publish an emergency rule that
will provide authority to the Regional Administrator to re-open the
recreational red snapper season after the September 30, 2010, end of
the fishing season, if it is determined that landings during the June
1-July 23 open season did not meet the quota.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 08/16/10 75 FR 49883
NPRM Comment Period End 08/31/10
Final Action-- Emergency Rule 09/24/10 75 FR 58335
Final Action--Emergency Rule
Extension 03/00/11
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Roy E Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 13th Ave South, Saint Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-BA06
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
262. PROTECTIVE REGULATIONS FOR KILLER WHALES IN THE NORTHWEST REGION
UNDER THE ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT AND MARINE MAMMAL PROTECTION ACT
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq; 16 USC 1531 to 1543
Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is considering
whether to propose regulations to protect killer whales (Orcinus orca)
in the Pacific Northwest. The Southern Resident killer whale distinct
population segment (DPS) was listed as endangered under the Endangered
Species Act (ESA) on November 18, 2005 (70 FR 69903). In the final rule
announcing the listing, NMFS identified vessel effects, including
direct interference and sound, as a potential contributing factor in
the recent decline of this population. Both the Marine Mammal
Protection Act (MMPA) and the ESA prohibit take, including harassment,
of killer whales, but these statutes do not prohibit specified acts.
NMFS is now considering whether to propose regulations that would
prohibit certain acts, under our general authorities under the ESA and
MMPA and their implementing regulations. The Proposed Recovery Plan for
Southern Resident killer whales (71 FR 69101; November 29, 2006)
includes as a management action the evaluation of current guidelines
and the need for regulations and/or protected areas. The scope of this
ANPR encompasses the activities of any person or conveyance that may
result in the unauthorized taking of killer whales and/or that may
cause detrimental individual-level and population-level impacts. NMFS
requests comments on whether --and if so, what type of-- conservation
measures, regulations, and, if necessary, other measures would be
appropriate to protect killer whales from the effects of these
activities.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
ANPRM 03/22/07 72 FR 13464
ANPRM Comment Period End 04/23/07
NPRM 07/29/09 74 FR 37674
NPRM Comment Period Extended 10/19/09 74 FR 53454
NPRM Comment Period End 10/27/09
NPRM Extended Comment Period End01/15/10
Final Rule 01/00/11
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: James H. Lecky, Director, Office of Protected
Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2332
Fax: 301 427-2520
Email: jim.lecky@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AV15
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
263. TAKING AND IMPORTING MARINE MAMMALS; U.S. NAVAL SURFACE WARFARE
CENTER PANAMA CITY DIVISION MISSION ACTIVITIES
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq
Abstract: On April 3, 2008, the National Marine Fisheries Service
(NMFS) received an application from the Navy requesting an
authorization for the take of 15 species/stocks of cetacean incidental
to the proposed mission activities in the Naval Surface Warfare Center
Panama City Division (NSWC PCD) study area over the course of five
years. These mission activities are classified as military readiness
activities. The purpose of the proposed mission activities is to
enhance NSWC PCD's capability and capacity to meet littoral and
expeditionary warfare requirements by providing Research, Development,
Test, and Evaluation (RDT&E) and in service engineering for
expeditionary maneuver warfare, operations in extreme environments,
mine warfare, maritime operations, and coastal operations. The Navy
states that these training activities may cause various impacts to
marine mammal species in the NSWC PCD study area. The Navy requests an
authorization to take individuals of these cetacean species by Level B
Harassment. Further, the Navy requests an authorization to take 1
individual each of bottlenose, Atlantic spotted, and pantropical
spotted dolphins per year by injury, as a result of the proposed
mission activities.
NMFS is issuing a proposed rule to govern the take of these marine
mammals by Level B harassment (behavior) and Level A harassment
[[Page 79742]]
(injury) incidental to the aforementioned mission activities in the
Naval NSWC PCD study area for a period of five years, under the
authority of section 101(a)(5)(A) of the Marine Mammal Protection Act.
Under that authority NMFS also must prescribe mitigation, monitoring,
and reporting requirements in connection with take authorizations.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 04/30/09 74 FR 20156
NPRM Comment Period End 06/01/09
Final Action 12/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Dr. Michael Payne, Fishery Biologist, Department of
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, P.O. Box
21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7235
Fax: 301 713-2521
Email: michael.payne@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AW80
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
264. RULE TO REVISE THE CRITICAL HABITAT DESIGNATION FOR THE ENDANGERED
LEATHERBACK SEA TURTLE
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq
Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service, announces a rule to
revise leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea) critical habitat under
the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended. The leatherback is
currently listed as endangered throughout its range, and critical
habitat consists of Sandy Point Beach and adjacent waters, St. Croix,
U.S. Virgin Islands. This rule would revise critical habitat to include
waters along the U.S. West Coast.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 01/05/10 75 FR 319
Notice of Public Hearings 02/01/10 75 FR 5015
NPRM Comment Period Extension 02/19/10 75 FR 7434
NPRM Comment Period End 03/08/10
NPRM Comment Period Extension
End 04/19/10
Final Action 12/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Sara McNulty, Ecologist, Department of Commerce,
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West
Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2322
RIN: 0648-AX06
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
265. CRITICAL HABITAT DESIGNATION FOR COOK INLET BELUGA WHALE UNDER THE
ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT
Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 29 in part II of this issue of
the Federal Register.
RIN: 0648-AX50
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
266. TAKING OF MARINE MAMMALS INCIDENTAL TO SPECIFIED ACTIVITIES; TAKING
MARINE MAMMALS INCIDENTAL TO TRAINING OPERATIONS CONDUCTED WITHIN THE
GULF OF MEXICO RANGE COMPLEX
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq
Abstract: NMFS has received requests from the U.S. Navy (Navy) for
authorizations for the take of marine mammals incidental to training
and operational activities conducted by the Navy's Atlantic Fleet
within Gulf of Mexico (GOMEX) Range Complex for the period beginning
December 3, 2009, and ending December 2, 2014. Pursuant to the
implementing regulations of the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA),
NMFS is proposing regulations to govern that take and requesting
information, suggestions, and comments on these proposed regulations.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 07/14/09 74 FR 33960
NPRM Comment Period End 08/13/09
Final Action 12/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: James H. Lecky, Director, Office of Protected
Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2332
Fax: 301 427-2520
Email: jim.lecky@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AX86
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC) Long-Term Actions
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
_______________________________________________________________________
NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE
________________________________
<###doc>
267. FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR REGULATING OFFSHORE MARINE AQUACULTURE
IN THE GULF OF MEXICO
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq.
Abstract: The purpose of this fishery management plan (FMP) is to
develop a regional permitting process for regulating and promoting
environmentally sound and economically sustainable aquaculture in the
Gulf of Mexico (Gulf) exclusive economic zone. This FMP 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 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 by supplementing harvest of wild caught
species with cultured product.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Availability 06/04/09 74 FR 26829
[[Page 79743]]
NOA Comment Period End 08/03/09
NPRM To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Roy E Crabtree
Phone: 727 824-5305
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AS65
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
268. PROVIDE REGULATIONS FOR PERMITS FOR CAPTURE, TRANSPORT, IMPORT, AND
EXPORT OF PROTECTED SPECIES FOR PUBLIC DISPLAY, AND FOR MAINTAINING A
CAPTIVE MARINE MAMMAL INVENTORY
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1372(c)
Abstract: This rule will revise and simplify criteria and procedures
specific to permits for taking, transporting, importing, and exporting
protected species for public display and provide convenient formats for
reporting marine mammal captive holdings and transports as required by
amendments made in 1994 to the Marine Mammal Protection Act.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 07/03/01 66 FR 35209
NPRM Comment Period Extended 08/22/01 66 FR 44109
NPRM Comment Period End 09/04/01
NPRM Comment Period Extended To 11/02/01
Final Action To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Michael Payne
Phone: 907 586-7235
Fax: 301 713-2521
Email: michael.payne@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AH26
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC) Completed Actions
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
269. SOUTH ATLANTIC FISHERY ECOSYSTEM PLAN COMPREHENSIVE AMENDMENT
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: The purpose of this action is to develop an ecosystem-based
approach to resource management. The South Atlantic Council plans to
develop a Fishery Ecosystem Plan (FEP) Comprehensive Amendment, which
would modify all its Fishery Management Plans (FMPs). The initial
amendment would include the following: (1) various actions to comply
with new essential fish habitat requirements; (2) establishment of deep
water coral Habitat Areas of Particular Concern, with possible gear
limitations, such as the establishment of allowable trawl areas; and
(3) other actions necessary to implement ecosystem-based fishery
management.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Withdrawn 08/05/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Roy E Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 13th Ave South, Saint Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AV31
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
270. AMENDMENT 17 TO THE SOUTH ATLANTIC FISHERY MANAGEMENT COUNCIL
SNAPPER GROUPER FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: Amendment 17 is intended to: establish management reference
points (MSY, OY) for red snapper; establish a rebuilding plan
(rebuilding timeframe and rebuilding strategy) for red snapper; specify
Annual Catch Limits (ACL), Annual Catch Targets (ACT), and
Accountability Measures (AM) for 10 species undergoing overfishing; and
modify management measures to ensure future catch is equal to or below
the ACL.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Withdrawn 08/17/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Roy E Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 13th Ave South, Saint Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AW11
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
271. AMENDMENT 2 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE QUEEN CONCH
FISHERY OF PUERTO RICO AND THE U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: St. Croix queen conch landings by commercial fishermen alone
have exceeded sustainable harvest levels since the 2000-2001 fishing
season. In 2005-2006 the commercial harvest was over four times
sustainable levels. Additionally, there is an unknown but significant
recreational harvest. Overfishing of queen conch has led to resource
collapse in other regions and in some cases, long-term resource loss.
According to the NMFS Report on the Status of the U.S. Fisheries for
2006, queen conch is overfished and undergoing overfishing. Under
current fishing practices, reductions in mortality are not expected to
be sufficient in the queen conch fishery. Without a reduction in
mortality, queen conch are not expected to achieve the rebuilding goals
established in the Sustainable Fisheries Amendment of 2005. Therefore,
a change in fishing practices is needed to help achieve the necessary
reductions in queen conch fishing mortality.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Intent 10/11/07 72 FR 58057
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
[[Page 79744]]
Agency Contact: Roy E Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 13th Ave South, Saint Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AW15
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
272. AMENDMENT 3 TO THE NORTHEAST SKATE COMPLEX FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: NMFS proposes regulations to implement measures in Amendment
3 to the Northeast Skate Complex Fishery Management Plan (Skate FMP).
Amendment 3 was developed by the New England Fishery Management Council
(Council) to rebuild overfished skate stocks (thorny and smooth skates)
and implement annual catch limits (ACLs) and accountability measures
(AMs) consistent with the requirements of the reauthorized Magnuson-
Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act. Amendment 3 would
establish an ACL and annual catch target (ACT) for the skate complex,
total allowable landings (TAL) for the skate wing and bait fisheries,
seasonal quotas for the bait fishery, reduced possession limits, in-
season possession limit triggers, and other measures to improve
management of the skate fisheries. This rule also includes skate
fishery specifications for fishing years (FY) 2010 through 2011.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 01/21/10 75 FR 3434
NPRM Comment Period End 02/22/10
Final Action 06/16/10 75 FR 34049
Final Action Effective 06/16/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: pat.kurkul@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AW30
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
273. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES; ATLANTIC SHARK MANAGEMENT
MEASURES
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: This rule evaluates the management measures for small coastal
sharks (SCS), based on the results of the 2007 SCS stock assessment.
This rulemaking could consider, among other things, commercial quotas
and trip limits, recreational minimum size and bag limits, time/area
closures, and the public display quota. In addition, this rule
implements a rebuilding plan for blacknose sharks. To the extent that
blacknose sharks are caught in fisheries that are not targeted highly
migratory species fisheries, the National Marine Fisheries Service
(NMFS) will work with the appropriate Regional Fishery Management
Council, Interstate Commission, and States to implement regulations
through their processes to rebuild blacknose sharks. This action is
necessary in light of recent stock assessments, which have determined
that blacknose sharks are overfished with overfishing occurring. As
needed, this rule may include others items to clarify existing
regulations.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Intent 05/07/08 73 FR 25665
Notice of Scoping Meetings and
Extension of Comment Period 07/02/08 73 FR 37932
Notice of Intent Comment Period
End 08/05/08
Notice of Intent Comment Period
Extended--Second Extension 10/29/08 73 FR 64307
Notice of Intent Comment Period
Extension End 10/31/08
Second Extension Comment Period
End 11/14/08
NPRM 07/24/09 74 FR 36892
NPRM Comment Period Extended 08/10/09 74 FR 39914
NPRM Comment Period End 09/22/09
NPRM Comment Period Extended End09/25/09
Final Action 06/01/10 75 FR 30483
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Margo Schulze-Haugen, Department of Commerce, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver
Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-0234
Fax: 301 713-1917
Email: margo.schulze-haugen@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AW65
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
274. AMENDMENT 31 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE REEF FISH
RESOURCES OF THE GULF OF MEXICO
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: In September 2008, NOAA's National Marine Fisheries Service
(NMFS) released a report based on observer data that indicated the
total number of loggerhead sea turtle takes by the eastern Gulf of
Mexico reef fish bottom longline fishery was much greater than that
authorized in the most recent biological opinion. In response, the Gulf
of Mexico Fishery Management Council (Council) requested NMFS take
emergency action to reduce the number of takes by the fishery during
the short term while the Council develops long-term measures in
Amendment 31. Measures being considered include: (1) modifying baits;
(2) area, season, and depth restrictions; (3) reducing effort through a
longline endorsement program; and (4) using observers or electronic
monitoring to close the fishery once a sea turtle take threshold has
been met.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 01/15/10 75 FR 2469
NPRM Comment Period End 03/01/10
Final Action 04/26/10 75 FR 21512
Final Rule -- Correction Notice 05/24/10 75 FR 28760
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Roy E Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 13th Ave South, Saint Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AX67
[[Page 79745]]
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
275. SNAPPER-GROUPER FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN OF THE SOUTH ATLANTIC
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: This action would implement an interim measure to prohibit
the harvest of red snapper for 180 days to address overfishing of red
snapper, through interim measures.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 07/06/09 74 FR 31906
NPRM Comment Period End 08/05/09
Final Action 12/04/09 74 FR 63673
Final Action Effective 01/04/10
Extension of Final Action 05/18/10 75 FR 27658
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Roy E Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 13th Ave South, Saint Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AX75
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
276. SALMON BYCATCH REDUCTION MANAGEMENT MEASURES FOR THE FISHERY
MANAGEMENT PLAN 91 IN THE BERING SEA ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq; 16 USC 3631 et seq; 16 USC 773 et
seq; PL 108-447
Abstract: This fishery management plan amendment and rulemaking will
implement the North Pacific Fishery Management Council's
recommendations for management measures to minimize to the extent
practicable Chinook salmon bycatch in the Bering Sea pollock fishery.
These management measures provide two options for the pollock sectors
(e.g., inshore catcher vessels, offshore catcher-processors, catcher
vessels delivering to motherships, or CDQ entities): fish under a lower
Chinook salmon cap or participate in an incentive program and fish
under a higher cap. Under the first option, the fleet as a whole may
choose to fish under a transferable cap of 47,591 Chinook salmon, which
would be allocated by season and sector. Once each sector reaches its
specific cap, it would be prohibited from continuing to fish for
pollock for the remainder of the season. Alternatively, vessels or CDQ
entities may choose to participate in private contracts called
incentive plan agreements (IPA) which would describe how participants
would maintain low bycatch even when their bycatch levels are well
below the hard cap approved. Those vessels or CDQ entities
participating in an IPA would be allocated a transferable share of up
to 60,000 Chinook salmon. This cap would be reduced for any vessels or
CDQ entities not participating in an IPA and those vessels and CDQ
entities would fish under a lower, non-transferable cap. In addition to
the annual cap levels, if any sector operating under an IPA exceeds its
proportion of 47,591 Chinook salmon three times in any seven-year
period, the sector's maximum bycatch limit will be permanently reduced
to its proportional share of the 47,591 cap. If the FMP amendments and
proposed rule are approved, fishing under the new Chinook salmon
bycatch management measures would start in 2011.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Availability 02/18/10 75 FR 7228
NPRM 03/23/10 75 FR 14016
Notice of Availability Comment
Period End 04/19/10
NPRM Comment Period End 05/07/10
Final Rule 08/30/10 75 FR 53025
Final Rule Effective 09/29/10
Correction 09/24/10 75 FR 58337
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: James Balisger, Regional Administrator, Department of
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, P.O. Box
21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249
Email: james.balsiger@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AX89
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
277. 2010 SUMMER FLOUNDER, SCUP, AND BLACK SEA BASS RECREATIONAL
MANAGEMENT MEASURES
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: This action implements the 2010 recreational management
measures (minimum fish size, fishing seasons, and possession limits)
for the summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass fisheries.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 04/27/10 75 FR 22087
NPRM Comment Period End 05/27/10
Final Rule 07/08/10 75 FR 39170
Final Action Effective 08/09/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: pat.kurkul@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AY04
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
278. 2010 TO 2012 ATLANTIC HERRING FISHERY SPECIFICATIONS AND MANAGEMENT
MEASURES
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: NMFS takes this action to implement specifications for the
2010-2012 fishing years for Atlantic herring. Regulations governing
this fishery require NMFS to publish proposed specifications for the
upcoming fishing years and to provide an opportunity for public
comment. The intent of this action is to fulfill this requirement and
to promote the development and conservation of the Atlantic herring
resource.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 04/20/10 75 FR 20550
NPRM Comment Period End 05/20/10
Final Action 08/12/10 75 FR 48874
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: pat.kurkul@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AY14
[[Page 79746]]
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
279. REMOVE CERTAIN REPORTING REQUIREMENTS UNDER THE CRAB
RATIONALIZATION PROGRAM
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: This rule would remove requirements under the Crab
Rationalization (CR) Program in 50 CFR part 680. The requirements are
removed for an operator of a catcher/processor to weigh processed crab
when it is removed from the vessel and to report that weight to NMFS on
an offload report. Currently, NMFS requires crab to be weighed onboard
the catcher/processor before they are processed, and this weight is
reported to NMFS. In the three years since implementation of the CR
Program, NMFS has determined that the additional requirements to weigh
processed crab when they are removed from the vessel and report that
weight to NMFS are no longer necessary. Advancements in at sea
reporting (eLandings), and the reliability of the at-sea motion-
compensated hopper scales provide adequate information for NMFS to
monitor and enforce proper reporting of crab catch.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 08/10/10 75 FR 48298
NPRM Comment Period End 08/25/10
Final Rule 09/16/10 75 FR 56485
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: James Balisger, Regional Administrator, Department of
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, P.O. Box
21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249
Email: james.balsiger@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AY28
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
280. FRAMEWORK ADJUSTMENT 44 AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE NORTHEAST
MULTISPECIES FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: Framework Adjustment 44 and Specifications will modify
management measures for the Northeast (NE) Multispecies Fishery
Management Plan (FMP) to make the FMP more precautionary, and implement
Annual Catch Limit (ACL) specifications for the fishery for fishing
years 2010, 2011, and 2012.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 02/01/10 75 FR 5016
NPRM Comment Period End 03/01/10
Final Rule 04/09/10 75 FR 18356
Final Rule Effective 05/01/10
Temporary Rule 05/26/10 75 FR 29459
Temporary Rule Effective 05/26/10
Temporary Rule - Adjustments
Effective 09/07/10
Temporary Rule-Adjustments to
Specifications 09/10/10 75 FR 55286
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: pat.kurkul@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AY29
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
281. FRAMEWORK 21 TO THE ATLANTIC SEA SCALLOP FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: Framework Adjustment 21 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery
Management Plan (Framework 21) will set specifications for the 2010
scallop fishing year, which begins March 1, 2010, including adjustments
to the total allowable catch, days-at-sea (DAS) allocations, scallop
access area rotation schedule, and access area trip allocations. This
framework is for a single year because the Council is working on
Amendment 15, which will establish a process for implementing annual
catch limits that are required to be in place in 2011 for the scallop
fishery. Framework 21 must also comply with the requirements of the
March 14, 2008, (amended February 5, 2009), Biological Opinion
completed for the Atlantic Sea Scallop fishery, which requires the
amount of allocated scallop fishing effort by limited access DAS
scallop vessels that can be used in the Mid-Atlantic to be limited
during the time of year when sea turtle distribution overlaps with
scallop fishing activity. In addition, Framework 21 considers minor
adjustments to the limited access general category individual fishing
quota program, scheduled to be implemented March 1, 2010, and the
observer set-aside program.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 04/27/10 75 FR 22073
NPRM Comment Period End 05/12/10
Final Rule 06/28/10 75 FR 36559
Final Action Effective 06/28/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: pat.kurkul@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AY43
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
282. AMENDMENTS 95/96/87 FOR THE BSAI AND GOA GROUNDFISH FMPS FOR BSAI
SKATES AND GROUNDFISH ANNUAL CATCH LIMITS AND ACCOUNTABILITY MEASURES
Legal Authority: 16 USC 773 et seq; PL 108-447; PL 106-31; PL 106-554;
PL 109-479; PL 105-277; 16 USC 1801; 16 USC 1540
Abstract: Amendments 96/87 to the fishery management plans (FMPs) for
groundfish of the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands Management Area
(BSAI) and Gulf of Alaska would revise the FMPs to conform with the
national standard 1 guidelines for annual catch limits and
accountability measures. Revisions to the FMPs also include
housekeeping measures that provide further explanation in the FMPs of
current practices for setting annual catch limits and accountability
measures. These FMP amendments would remove species groups (sharks,
sculpins, octopus in the BSAI and sharks, sculpins, octopus, and squid
in the Gulf of Alaska) from the other species complex and manage these
groups separately in the target species category. The regulatory
amendment would revise the regulations to be consistent with the
changes made to the FMPs regarding harvest
[[Page 79747]]
specifications for groups removed from the other species category.
Amendment 95 to the FMP for Groundfish of the BSAI would move skates
from the other species category into the target species category.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NOA 05/03/10
Notice of Availability 07/02/10 75 FR 38454
NOA Comment Period End 07/06/10
Proprosed Rule 07/16/10 75 FR 41424
Proposed Rule Comment Period End08/30/10
Notice of Availability Comment
Period End 08/31/10
Final Rule 10/06/10 75 FR 61639
Final Rule Effective 11/05/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: James Balisger, Regional Administrator, Department of
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, P.O. Box
21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249
Email: james.balsiger@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AY48
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
283. 2010 SPECIFICATIONS AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES FOR THE SPINY DOGFISH
FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (MAFMC) and the
New England Fishery Management Council (NEFMC) jointly manage the spiny
dogfish fishery on the Atlantic coast through the Spiny Dogfish Fishery
Management Plan (FMP), with the MAFMC having the lead. The FMP requires
the Councils to recommend specifications for the spiny dogfish fishery
consistent with the rebuilding program in the FMP. This fishery is
managed through an annual quota and possession limits. The quota is
divided semi-annually, with quota period 1 (May 1 through October 31)
being allocated 57.9 percent of the quota, and quota period 2 (November
1 through April 30) being allocated 42.1 percent. For the 2010 fishing
year, the MAFMC and NEFMC have adopted separate recommendations
(ranging from a status quo of 12 million pounds to 29 million pounds)
to provide a sufficient range of alternatives for the purposes of
allowing NOAA's National Marine Fisheries Service to implement measures
that are responsive to the best available data at the time of final
rulemaking (the next assessment is scheduled to occur late January
2010, with preliminary results likely available at the end of February
2010). Both Councils adopted the status quo possession limit of 3,000
lb per trip.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 04/02/10 75 FR 16716
NPRM Comment Period End 05/02/10
Final Action 06/24/10 75 FR 36012
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: pat.kurkul@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AY50
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
284. FISHING YEAR 2010 ATLANTIC DEEP-SEA RED CRAB SPECIFICATIONS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: NMFS takes this action to establish the target total
allowable catch and days-at-sea allocation for FY 2010 for the red crab
fishery.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 02/19/10 75 FR 7435
NPRM Comment Period End 03/22/10
Final Action 05/14/10 75 FR 27219
Final Action Effective 06/14/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: pat.kurkul@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AY51
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
285. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO THE GULF OF MEXICO REEF FISH FISHERY
MANAGEMENT PLAN TO SET 2010 MANAGEMENT MEASURES FOR RED SNAPPER
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: The 2009 update stock assessment of the Gulf of Mexico red
snapper stock indicated that although the stock is still overfished,
the stock is rebuilding and overfishing was projected to end in 2009.
Based on their review of the assessment update, the Gulf Council's
Scientific and Statistical Committee recommended total allowable catch
(TAC) could be increased. The purpose of this regulatory amendment is
to adjust TAC and the resulting recreational and commercial quotas
consistent with the goals and objectives of the Council's red snapper
rebuilding plan and achieve the mandates of the Magnuson-Stevens
Fishery Conservation and Management Act.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 03/30/10 75 FR 15665
NPRM Comment Period End 04/14/10
Final Action 05/03/10 75 FR 23186
Final Action Effective 06/02/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Roy E Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 13th Ave South, Saint Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 824-5305
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AY57
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
286. FISHERIES OFF WEST COAST STATES; PACIFIC COAST GROUNDFISH FISHERY;
INTERIM 2010 TRIBAL WHITING REGULATIONS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: NMFS takes this action to establish an interim 2010 tribal
whiting allocation, reporting and closure regulations, and refine
existing regulations on tribal whiting reapportionment. This action
also sets the 2010 Pacific whiting acceptable biological catch and
optimum yield specifications for 2010 based on the most recent Pacific
whiting stock assessment from March 2010.
[[Page 79748]]
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 03/12/10 75 FR 11829
NPRM Comment Period End 04/02/10
Interim Final Rule for 2010
Tribal Whiting 05/04/10 75 FR 23620
Interim Final Rule Effective 05/19/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Frank Lockhart, Program Analyst, Department of
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand
Point Way NE., Seattle, WA 98115
Phone: 206 526-6142
Fax: 206 526-6736
Email: frank.lockhart@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AY59
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
287. FISHERIES OFF WEST COAST STATES; WEST COAST SALMON FISHERIES; 2010
MANAGEMENT MEASURES
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1854
Abstract: This rule implements the 2010 ocean salmon management
measures.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action 05/05/10 75 FR 24482
Final Action Effective 05/20/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Frank Lockhart, Program Analyst, Department of
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand
Point Way NE., Seattle, WA 98115
Phone: 206 526-6142
Fax: 206 526-6736
Email: frank.lockhart@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AY60
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
288. <> 2010 ATLANTIC BLUEFIN TUNA QUOTA SPECIFICATIONS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: This action would establish Atlantic bluefin tuna (BFT) quota
specifications by adjusting the U.S. annual BFT quota recommended by
the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas in
2008, and allocating that quota among the domestic fishing categories
for the 2010 fishing year (January 1-December 31, 2010). This action
would be consistent with the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and
Management Act and the Atlantic Tunas Convention Act. The annual
specification process is set forth in current regulations implemented
under the 2006 Consolidated Atlantic Highly Migratory Species Fishery
Management Plan. This action is not expected to be controversial.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/02/09 74 FR 63095
NPRM Comment Period End 01/04/10
Final Action 06/02/10 75 FR 30732
Final Rule Correction 06/15/10 75 FR 33731
Final Action Effective 07/02/10
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-AY77
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
289. <> PACIFIC COAST GROUNDFISH FISHERY; BIENNIAL
SPECIFICATIONS AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES; INSEASON ADJUSTMENTS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: On March 6, 2009, NMFS published a final rule to implement
the 2009-2010 West Coast groundfish harvest specifications and
management measures (74 FR 9874). This action takes routine and
frequent management action to modify harvest specifications and
management measures to meet the mandates outlined by the Magnuson
Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (Magnuson-Stevens Act).
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Rule -- Inseason Effective05/01/10
Final Rule -- Inseason 05/04/10 75 FR 23615
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Frank Lockhart, Program Analyst, Department of
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand
Point Way NE., Seattle, WA 98115
Phone: 206 526-6142
Fax: 206 526-6736
Email: frank.lockhart@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AY82
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
290. <> INSEASON ADJUSTMENT TO THE FY 2010 ATLANTIC DEEP
SEA RED CRAB SPECIFICATIONS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: This action is an inseason Adjustment to modify the red crab
specifications to raise the target TAC to the revised recommended
Acceptable Biological Catch (ABC) by the New England Fishery Management
Council's Scientific and Statistical Committee. In May 2010, NMFS
published the final rule for the FY 2010 red crab specifications
implementing the Council's original recommended specifications (target
TAC equal to 3.56 million lb; 582 DAS). In March 2010, the Council's
Scientific and Statistical Committee met to review their previous
recommendation for red crab. NMFS does not have the regulatory
authority to implement specifications higher than the Councils
recommendation. The regulations do, however, allow for an in-season
adjustment to the specifications, after consultation with the Council.
The Council met on April 28, 2010, and has recommended that NMFS adjust
the FY 2010 specifications commensurate with the SSCs revised
recommendation. The adjusted specifications would be 3.91 million lb
and 657 DAS.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 06/22/10 75 FR 35435
NPRM Comment Period End 07/10/10
Final Action 08/13/10 75 FR 49420
Final Action Effective 09/13/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: pat.kurkul@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AY88
[[Page 79749]]
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
291. RULEMAKING TO ESTABLISH TAKE PROHIBITIONS FOR THE THREATENED
SOUTHERN DISTINCT POPULATION SEGMENT OF NORTH AMERICAN GREEN STURGEON
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 to 1543
Abstract: Under section 4(d) of the Federal Endangered Species Act
(ESA), the Secretary of Commerce is required to adopt such regulations
as he deems necessary and advisable for the conservation of species
listed as threatened. This rule would apply the prohibitions under ESA
section 9(a)(1)(A) through 9(a)(1)(G) for threatened Southern DPS green
sturgeon, but would include certain exceptions and exemptions from the
take prohibitions. Exceptions are included for certain scientific
research, emergency fish rescue, law enforcement, and habitat
restoration activities that meet the criteria specified in the
protective regulations under Section 4(d) of the ESA for Southern DPS
green sturgeon. Exemptions are included for state scientific research,
fisheries activities, and tribal activities conducted under NMFS
approved ESA 4(d) programs. Thus, take of Southern DPS fish may be
authorized under ESA section 7 or 10, or under an exception or
exemption to the take prohibitions if the activities are conducted in
compliance with NMFS criteria or NMFS-approved plans.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 05/21/09 74 FR 23822
NPRM Comment Period End 07/20/09
Final Action 04/02/10 75 FR 30714
Final Action Effective 07/02/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Marta Nammack, Office of Protected Resources,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-1401
Fax: 301 427-2523
Email: marta.nammack@noaa.gov
RIN: 0648-AV94
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC) Proposed Rule Stage
Patent and Trademark Office (PTO)
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
292. REVISION OF USPTO FEES FOR FISCAL YEAR 2011
Legal Authority: 35 USC 41, 119, 120, 132(b) and 376; PL 109-383; PL
110-116; PL 110-137; PL 110-149; PL 110-161; PL 110-5; PL 110-92
Abstract: The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is
taking this action to adjust certain patent and trademark fee amounts
set in the aggregate to recover the estimated cost to the USPTO for
processing activities and services and materials relating to patents
and trademarks, respectively, including proportionate shares of the
administrative costs of the USPTO.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/10
NPRM Comment Period End 02/00/11
Final Action 05/00/11
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Walter Schlueter, Budget Analyst--Fees and Forecasting,
Department of Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, P.O. Box 1450,
Alexandria, VA 22313
Phone: 571 272-6299
Fax: 571 273-6299
Email: walter.schlueter@uspto.gov
RIN: 0651-AC43
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
293. REVISION OF USPTO FEES FOR FISCAL YEAR 2012
Legal Authority: 35 USC 41, 119, 120, 132(b) and 376; PL 109-383; PL
110-116; PL 110-137; PL 110-149; PL 110-161; PL 110-5; PL 110-92
Abstract: The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is
taking this action to adjust certain patent and trademark fee amounts
set in the aggregate to recover the estimated cost to the USPTO for
processing activities and services and materials relating to patents
and trademarks, respectively, including proportionate shares of the
administrative costs of the USPTO.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/10
NPRM Comment Period End 02/00/11
Final Action 06/00/11
Final Action Effective 07/00/11
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Walter Schlueter, Budget Analyst--Fees and Forecasting,
Department of Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, P.O. Box 1450,
Alexandria, VA 22313
Phone: 571 272-6299
Fax: 571 273-6299
Email: walter.schlueter@uspto.gov
RIN: 0651-AC44
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC) Final Rule Stage
Patent and Trademark Office (PTO)
_______________________________________________________________________
<###doc>
294. INTERIM INCREASE ON PATENT FEES FOR FISCAL YEAR 2011
Legal Authority: PL 110-137; PL 110-149; PL 110-161; PL 110-5; PL 110-
92; 35 USC 41, 119, 120,132(b) and 376; PL 109-383; PL 110-116
Abstract: The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is
proposing an interim increase on certain patent fees to fund the
requirements for putting the USPTO on a sustainable path to fund agency
operations, reduce patent inventory and pendency, and invest in
information technology.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action 12/00/10
[[Page 79750]]
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Walter Schlueter, Budget Analyst--Fees and Forecasting,
Department of Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, P.O. Box 1450,
Alexandria, VA 22313
Phone: 571 272-6299
Fax: 571 273-6299
Email: walter.schlueter@uspto.gov
RIN: 0651-AC42
[FR Doc. 2010-30450 Filed 12-17-10; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3510-12-S
