FR 2024-28730

The document from the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), a part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), announces a temporary closure of the commercial Atlantic mackerel fishery starting December 6, 2024, through the end of the year. This decision results from reaching—and slightly exceeding—the domestic annual harvest quota for 2024. The overarching goal is to prevent overfishing and support the recovery of Atlantic mackerel stocks as part of a broader fishery management plan.

Summary of the Document

The Atlantic mackerel fishery closure is part of a regulatory framework designed to manage and sustain fish populations. The NMFS projects that 100.06 percent of the yearly harvest limit has been met, prompting this action, which enforces strict limitations on the quantity of mackerel that can be caught by vessels and purchased by dealers during the closure period.

Significant Issues and Concerns

• Data Discrepancy: There is a noted inconsistency within the document. Initially, it states that 80 percent of the annual harvest was projected to be harvested, yet subsequently reveals that the actual harvested amount was 100.06 percent. While regulatory measures trigger action at the 80 percent mark to prevent overfishing, clarity in this discrepancy could improve reader understanding and confidence in the decision-making process.

• Lack of Public Consultation: The rule was implemented without prior notice and opportunity for public comment, a deviation explained by urgency and previously established public processes. However, this could raise concerns regarding transparency and stakeholder engagement in regulatory decisions.

• Complexity of Regulatory Language: The document references specific regulatory sections using legal notation (§ 648.26(a)(2)(i)), which can be intricate and inaccessible for the general public. Simplifying or providing context for these references may improve the document's accessibility.

• Military Time Format: The use of military time (e.g., '0001 hr' and '2400 hr') may confuse those unfamiliar with this format, potentially leading to misunderstandings regarding the start and end times of the closure.

Impact on the Public and Stakeholders

Public Impact: Broadly, this action aims to ensure the long-term sustainability of mackerel stocks, which is significant for maintaining ecological balance and supporting future fishing opportunities. Educating the public on the importance of such measures could foster understanding and acceptance, despite any inconvenience the closure may cause.

Specific Stakeholder Impact:

• Commercial Fishers: The strict limits imposed during this closure will likely affect commercial fishers financially, as their catch and sales capacities are significantly reduced. While necessary for conservation, this can pose challenges for livelihoods dependent on open access to fish stocks.

• Fish Dealers: Federally permitted dealers face similar constraints as they are restricted in the amount of mackerel they can purchase. This impacts their business operations and potential profitability during the closure period.

• Conservationists and Environmental Groups: These stakeholders will likely view the closure positively as it aligns with efforts to protect marine biodiversity and support the rebuilding of fish stocks. Ensuring healthy mackerel populations benefits marine ecosystems and related fisheries in the long term.

In summary, while the temporary closure of the Atlantic mackerel fishery serves as a necessary step in the sustainable management of marine resources, it also presents challenges and concerns that require careful handling and transparent communication to all affected parties.