FR 2021-00109

The document issued by the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), a branch of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), details a temporary closure on fishing for pollock in Statistical Area 610 in the Gulf of Alaska. This action spans from January 20, 2021, through May 31, 2021, and aims to prevent fishers from surpassing the allowed catch for the first season, referred to as the "A season." The total catch quota set at 799 metric tons for 2021 has been allocated to support other groundfish fisheries indirectly, as incidental catch, due to escalated catches elsewhere.

Summary of the Document

This temporary closure prevents directed fishing of pollock in the specified area, ensuring that the allowable catch limits for other fisheries within the Gulf of Alaska are not exceeded. The NMFS has established a directed fishing allowance of zero metric tons for pollock, reserving the 799 metric tons to cover bycatch in other fisheries. The document reflects the agency's rapid response to recent fishery data, effectively managing resources to maintain sustainable fishing practices in accordance with the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act.

Significant Issues and Concerns

Several concerns are apparent within the document. First, there's no detailed analysis of how this closure might impact the economic landscape for local fishing communities. The actions taken could potentially strain the livelihood of those reliant on pollock fishing for income without offering details on mitigations or alternatives.

Secondly, the document references complex regulatory sections that may be difficult for the general public to interpret. Making sense of references like §§ 679.20(d)(1)(i) might be challenging for readers without a background in specific fisheries regulations.

Furthermore, there is little explanation of how the 799 metric ton bycatch allowance will support other fisheries. Understanding the rationale and methods behind this allocation might provide clarity and reassurance to stakeholders involved.

Finally, the decision to bypass prior public notice and comment due to urgency raises questions about transparency and stakeholder involvement in the decision-making process. While the NMFS affirms that this step was necessary to act swiftly, it also restricts public participation, potentially fostering discontent or misunderstanding.

Public Impact and Stakeholder Implications

For the general public, this document is a reminder of the regulatory measures in place to protect marine resources and ensure successful and sustainable fishing operations. However, it does highlight a potential need for improved communication regarding how these decisions are reached and how they impact various sectors of the community.

Specific stakeholders, particularly those in the fisheries sector, might face challenges due to the displacement of fishing activities and potential economic hardship. Without directed fishing in Area 610, those relying on pollock may experience financial pressure. On the flip side, this closure supports sustainable fishing practices, potentially benefiting the ecosystem and long-term viability of fish stocks.

The document underscores the complexity of managing shared marine resources and the ongoing balancing act between conservation objectives and community needs. The situation exemplifies a need for carefully structured communication, greater transparency, and consideration of economic impacts in future rule-making processes.