December 12, 2019 — The following was released by NOAA Fisheries:
We approved Amendment 20 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fishery Management Plan on October 22, 2018. This action created a new Tier 3 longfin squid incidental moratorium permit.
How Do I Qualify for a Longfin Squid Moratorium Tier 3 Permit (SMB1C)?
To qualify for an SMB1C longfin squid permit, a vessel must have been issued an open access SMB3 permit and landed at least 5,000 lb of longfin squid in any year during 1997-2013. We will use available dealer landings data to determine whether a vessel qualifies for a SMB1C permit. To be issued the new Tier 3 longfin squid incidental permit, vessel owners must apply for this new permit by February 29, 2020.
Where Do I Get an Application?
The application form is available online and will also be mailed to you. For more information see our bulletin.