FR 2021-02246

The document, titled "Notice of SEDAR 80 Life History Topical Working Group Webinar I for U.S. Caribbean Queen Triggerfish," is issued by the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), a division of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Commerce Department. It serves as an official announcement for a series of webinars meant to assess the stock of queen triggerfish in the U.S. Caribbean. These webinars are part of a multi-step process known as the Southeast Data, Assessment, and Review (SEDAR) to evaluate fish stock status. The specific event mentioned in the notice is scheduled for March 10, 2021, and will be held online, allowing the public to participate after requesting an invitation.

General Summary

The primary objective of this Federal Register notice is to inform interested parties about the SEDAR 80 webinar, which involves discussions about the life history data for U.S. Caribbean queen triggerfish. The meeting represents just one phase of the broader SEDAR process, which includes data workshops, assessment procedures, and peer review. It is a collaborative effort that incorporates input from various stakeholders, including governmental agencies, scientists, and possibly international experts, to compile a comprehensive understanding of fish stock statuses.

Significant Issues and Concerns

A few potential concerns arise from the contents of this document:

• Lack of Detail on Participation: The procedure for requesting participation in the webinar via invitation is mentioned, yet the document lacks specific details on who is eligible to participate and if there are any particular restrictions or limitations.

• Transparency and Criteria Ambiguity: The transparency around which data sets will be used during the stock assessment and how these decisions are made is not entirely clear. The document could provide more insight into the criteria for recommending life history data.

• Complex Terminology: The use of specialized fisheries management terminology, such as 'life history data' and 'stock assessment report,' may be confusing for those without prior knowledge in this field, which could limit broader public engagement.

Public Impact

For the general public, the document highlights NOAA’s ongoing efforts to manage and sustain fishery stocks responsibly. It signals transparency and openness in allowing public involvement, although the procedures to engage actively could be better outlined. Informed participation aids in creating more robust management decisions that impact the sustainable use of marine resources.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

For stakeholders directly involved in fisheries, such as fishermen, researchers, and environmental groups, this notice outlines an opportunity to participate in or stay informed about stock assessment processes that may directly influence fishing quotas and conservation efforts.

• Positive Impacts: Stakeholders benefit from a structured process that aims to ensure the health and sustainability of fish stocks, which can lead to more predictable and stable fishery resources.

• Potential Concerns: If the criteria or process for contributing to or influencing recommendations during the webinar are not transparent, it could lead to missed opportunities for stakeholder input, leading to decisions that might not fully consider all relevant parties' perspectives.

In conclusion, while the notice represents an essential step in assessing fishery resources, it could further enhance public engagement and stakeholder satisfaction by improving transparency, demystifying participation processes, and clarifying the criteria and decision-making processes involved.