May 18, 2015 — The following was released by NOAA:
As part of the Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Plan, new rules regarding trap/pot gear and gillnets go into effect on June 1, 2015.
Read our fact sheet about these new rules.
Also, please note that we are proposing to modify the minimum number of traps per trawl requirements in certain state waters including portions of Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Maine.
The proposed new requirements would allow singles to be fished in certain areas, and would require everyone fishing singles in these select waters to distinctively mark their gear.
The rule also proposes unique gear marking for all trap/pots and gillnets in Jordan Basin and Jeffreys Ledge, two important habitats for right whales.
The fact sheet about the proposed changes is now available.The comment period for this rule closed on April 20, 2015.
Questions? Contact Jennifer Goebel, Regional Office, at 978-281-9175 or Jennifer.Goebel@noaa.gov