June 23, 2016 — The following was released by NOAA:

NOAA Fisheries is requesting comments on a proposed rule to implement Framework Adjustment 9 to the Monkfish Fishery Management Plan.

We are proposing to:

• Allow certain monkfish vessels enrolled in a Northeast multispecies sector to declare a groundfish day-at-sea while at sea;
• Eliminate monkfish possession limits for some vessels fishing in the Northern Fishery Management Area; and
• Allow vessels to use smaller mesh gillnets to target dogfish and monkfish in the Southern Fishery Management Area.

These proposed management measures are designed to further increase monkfish landings, provide operational flexibility, and increase economic efficiency.

To get all the details on these proposed measures, read the proposed rule as published in the Federal Register today and the background documents posted on our website.

We are accepting comments through July 8.

You may submit comments by any one of the following methods:

• Electronic Submission: Submit all electronic public comments via the Federal eRulemaking Portal. Click the “Comment Now!” icon, complete the required fields, and enter or attach your comments.
• Mail: NMFS, Greater Atlantic Regional Fisheries Office, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930. Mark the outside of the envelope “Comments on the Proposed Rule for Monkfish Framework 9.”