On March 5, 2010, a new reporting requirement goes into effect for Midwater Trawl Vessels fishing in Groundfish Closed Area I.
Prohibited midwater trawl vessels (SEE BELOW) fishing in Closed Area I are not to release fish from the codend of the net, except when pumping the catch is not possible due to a concern for vessel safety, or pumping is not possible due to mechanical failure or spiny dogfish clogging the pump intake. If fish are released, the vessel must exit Closed Area I for the remainder of that trip.
PROHIBITED VESSELS: This requirement applies to any vessel issued a limited access herring Category A or B permit (i.e. All Areas or Areas 2/3 permit) fishing in Northeast (NE) multispecies Closed Area I under the authority of the Gulf of Maine/Georges Bank Herring Midwater Trawl Gear Letter of Authorization (LOA).