FR 2021-01493

The document under consideration is a notice from the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), a part of NOAA, announcing the reopening of a public comment period related to the Work Plan of the Interagency Working Group on Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing. Originally, the NMFS requested comments by January 15, 2021, but has extended the deadline to February 24, 2021, providing more time for stakeholders to contribute their perspectives and expertise.

General Summary

This notice falls under the provisions of the Maritime Security and Fisheries Enforcement Act (Maritime SAFE Act), which is a legislative effort designed to strengthen national and global measures against IUU fishing. This act calls for improved data sharing, increased transparency, and coordination among various sectors to deter illicit fishing activities that pose threats to maritime security and fisheries management worldwide. The Interagency Working Group has developed a Work Plan, which will inform a comprehensive five-year strategic plan due to Congress by the end of 2021. This reopening aims to gather input from various stakeholders, including private sector actors and NGOs, to support ongoing and new initiatives outlined in the plan.

Significant Issues or Concerns

Several potential issues arise from this document:

1. Complex Language: The use of specific legal terms and reference to laws such as the Maritime SAFE Act may not be easily understood by the public, potentially hindering widespread engagement.

2. Lack of Financial Details: There is a noticeable absence of any specified budget or financial allocations in the document, which raises questions about resource availability and potential wastage.

3. Insufficient Detail on Activities: The document lacks specific examples of ongoing and proposed new activities within the Work Plan, which may challenge stakeholders' ability to provide informed feedback.

4. Military Involvement Unclear: Details on how military departments will contribute to combating IUU fishing are not clearly articulated, potentially causing confusion regarding their role and impact.

5. Guidance for Stakeholders: The notice lacks comprehensive guidance on how different stakeholders can effectively contribute, which might limit meaningful participation from interested parties.

Broad Public Impact

The overall impact on the public could be mixed. On the positive side, efforts to combat IUU fishing can lead to better-managed fisheries, a more stable seafood supply chain, and increased food security, which benefits consumers and the environment. However, the complexity of the document and the absence of clear guidance on stakeholder involvement may limit public awareness and engagement, reducing the potential for widespread support and collaboration.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

• Seafood Industry: Companies involved in fishing, processing, and seafood trade could experience enhanced regulatory oversight, which might entail adjustments to their operations but also potentially opens pathways for collaboration that could offer competitive advantages.

• Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): NGOs focused on environmental protection and sustainability might find new opportunities through increased collaboration with government entities, enhancing their advocacy and conservation efforts.

• Military and Law Enforcement: Although the document sketches an increased role for these sectors, the specific nature of their involvement and how it supports IUU fishing efforts remains unclear. Further guidance would be necessary to understand implications for these stakeholders.

In summary, while the document represents a positive step towards engaging multiple stakeholders in the fight against IUU fishing, improvements could be made by providing clearer, more detailed information and concrete examples of ongoing and proposed activities. This would help to forge stronger partnerships and drive more effective responses to the challenges posed by IUU fishing.