FR 2021-03641

The document from the Federal Register, titled "Fisheries of the South Atlantic; Southeast Data, Assessment, and Review (SEDAR); Public Meeting," is a notice issued by the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), both under the U.S. Department of Commerce. The announcement informs the public about an upcoming data scoping webinar for the SEDAR Procedural Workshop 8, set to focus on the development of a Fishery Independent Index under changing survey designs.

General Summary

The heart of this document is to inform and invite interested parties to participate in a data scoping webinar as part of the SEDAR Procedural Workshop 8. This particular webinar, which forms a part of a larger multi-step process involving subsequent workshops and meetings, aims to evaluate fish stocks in the Southeast Region. The overall goal of the SEDAR process is to report on fish stock status, suggest biological benchmarks, and forecast population trends. The participation encompasses a diverse group including scientists, data collectors, and representatives from the fishing industry and environmental organizations.

Significant Issues and Concerns

While the notice offers a general overview of the purpose and logistics of the webinar, there are several areas that raise questions. Firstly, the document lacks specific details on budget allocations or funding sources for this webinar and subsequent activities, leaving the reader uncertain about the financial transparency of this initiative. This absence of financial information makes it difficult to assess potential favoritism or inefficiencies in funding distribution.

Moreover, the language used in the document can be quite technical, particularly in explaining the SEDAR process and terms like "Fishery Independent Index Development." The text may prove challenging for those who are not well-versed in fishery management or regulatory terminology, potentially limiting public engagement or understanding.

There is also a notable absence of clearly defined outcomes. The document does not articulate the expected measurable impacts of the webinar or subsequent workshops. Such information would be critical in evaluating the success or necessity of these meetings.

Impact on the Public

For the general public, the document provides an opportunity to engage with and potentially influence fisheries management, especially if they have particular interests or concerns about the marine environment and its management. The open access to these webinars underscores a commitment to transparency and public involvement. However, without clearer communication about the financial aspects and outcomes, the broader public may remain skeptical about the efficiency and effectiveness of these efforts.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

For specific stakeholders such as fishermen, scientists, and environmentalists, the implications of these workshops are more direct. Positive impacts may include the incorporation of diverse data sources and perspectives in evaluating fish stocks, which can lead to more comprehensive and informed management decisions. However, the technical nature of the document and the potential lack of transparency in budget allocations could negatively impact these stakeholders if they feel excluded from the decision-making process or unclear about how resources are being managed.

In conclusion, while the notification is a step towards inclusivity in fishery management discussions, it highlights the need for clearer communication and transparency regarding the process, outcomes, and financial implications guiding these efforts.