December 14, 2014 — A standardized method for reporting bycatch is being proposed for Northeastern fishing. The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is seeking public comment on a proposed Northeast Region Standardized Bycatch Reporting Methodology (SBRM) Omnibus Amendment. NMFS is announcing the proposal in the Federal Register of Monday, Dec. 15, 2014.
The Mid-Atlantic and New England fishery management councils jointly proposed the revision. They want the revision to apply to all 13 fishery management plans in the area. The proposal involves not only a standardized reporting and monitoring method, but also new procedures for observers, new set-asides and more. It would change the way NMFS operates framework adjustments. It covers 40 species and 14 types of fishing gear.
You can comment until Feb. 13, 2005. File your thoughts electronically. Or mail them to John K. Bullard, regional administrator, NMFS, Greater Atlantic Regional Fisheries Office, 55 Great Republic Dr., Gloucester, MA 01930. Mark the envelope: "Comments on SBRM Amendment.'' If you have any questions, call Fishery Policy Analyst Douglas Potts at (978) 281-9341.
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