FR 2025-02030

The document concerns a public meeting notice issued by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) through the Pacific Fishery Management Council. This meeting, organized by the Highly Migratory Species Advisory Subpanel (HMSAS), is scheduled to occur online on February 18, 2025. The main aim of this meeting is to discuss various relevant topics set to appear on the Pacific Council's agenda for their March 2025 meeting, with the possibility of preparing supplemental reports on these issues. It is accessible to the public, and additional details on participation can be found on the Pacific Council's website.

Significant Issues or Concerns

One area of concern is that the document does not specify the topics that will be discussed during the HMSAS webinar. For transparency, it would be helpful if the public knew ahead of time what these topics are, allowing for more meaningful participation and engagement. Additionally, the language used in the document regarding action restrictions to specified issues and emergency matters under section 305(c) of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act may be somewhat complex, potentially confusing for individuals not familiar with such legal terminologies.

Another issue worth considering is the lack of detailed information on how the public can join and participate in the meeting. While the document does reference the Pacific Council's website for guidance, including a brief summary or direct links could significantly enhance accessibility right from the notice itself.

Broad Impact on the Public

This initiative by the NOAA and the Pacific Council has potential implications for the general public, especially those interested in marine resource management and conservation. An open invitation to the public provides an opportunity for broader engagement and feedback from individuals who may be impacted by the decisions or discussions held during such meetings.

However, for the public to effectively engage, clarity on the agenda and procedures is paramount. The current structure requiring interested stakeholders to seek additional information elsewhere may create a barrier for some who might otherwise participate in meaningful ways.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

For stakeholders directly involved in the fishing industry, the environmental sector, or community groups focused on marine conservation, this meeting holds particular significance. Key discussions can influence regulations and policies impacting their practices, economic outcomes, and environmental stewardship responsibilities. The absence of specific agenda items in the notice may leave such groups inadequately prepared to present their views or concerns during the meeting.

If executed well, public meetings such as this can serve as valuable conduits for stakeholder voices and aspirations, potentially guiding policy adjustments that are more inclusive and representative of broader interests. Nevertheless, the document's nuances in language and detail could either facilitate this process or inadvertently stifle it, depending on the subsequent accessibility and transparency measures undertaken by the organizing council.