FR 2025-05041

The recent Federal Register document from the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) announces a temporary rule to reallocate Pacific cod catch limits in the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands. The decision shifts 1,000 metric tons of the total allowable catch from jig gear vessels to smaller vessels equipped with hook-and-line or pot gear. This reallocation is intended to ensure that more of the Pacific cod quota is efficiently harvested during the 2025 fishing season.

General Overview

The document outlines the necessity behind reallocating a portion of the Pacific cod catch initially set for jig gear vessels. The projected leftover catch, initially meant for jig vessels, is reassigned to catcher vessels less than 60 feet in length that use different fishing gear. Such a move is essential to maximize fish harvest within the permitted limits by the end of 2025.

Significant Issues and Concerns

Several notable issues arise from this document:

• Transparency: The document fails to provide explicit reasons for why jig vessels are anticipated to leave 1,000 metric tons of their allocation unharvested. This lack of transparency could raise questions about the reallocation decision-making process.

• Decision-Making Process: There is minimal explanation of the NMFS's methodology for determining the necessity of reallocation. The lack of detail might leave stakeholders perplexed about the decision's basis and validity.

• Complex Language: The waiver of notice and the expedited effective date are justified by the demanding nature of processing up-to-date fisheries data. However, the complex language used in legal references (such as 5 U.S.C. 553(d)(3)) might be difficult for a lay audience to interpret.

• Stakeholder Impacts: The document does not address potential concerns or impacts on sectors relying on jig gear. There may be perceptions of favoritism towards certain vessel types, which could lead to discontent among the affected parties.

• Ecosystem and Economic Impact: There is a lack of detailed analysis on how this reallocation could affect the broader fishery ecosystem and the local economy, adding another layer of complexity for stakeholders trying to assess this action's implications.

Broad Public Impact

For the general public, this temporary rule highlights the adaptive nature of fisheries management. While ensuring a complete and efficient harvest of Pacific cod, it emphasizes the necessity of responsive strategies to changing circumstances in the fishing industry.

Stakeholder Impacts

• Positive Impact on Some Vessels: The reassignment of quota to smaller catcher vessels using hook-and-line or pot gear benefits those specific operators, allowing them to capitalize on additional fishing opportunities.

• Negative or Uncertain Impacts on Jig Gear Operators: Conversely, those relying on jig gear may face challenges due to perceived limitations or constraints brought about by reallocation. Without clarity on why they could not fulfill their quota, their frustration might increase.

The document, while functional in its regulatory capacity, could benefit from more transparency and consideration of stakeholder perspectives. Addressing these concerns could improve understanding and acceptance of fisheries management decisions among all affected parties.