The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) under the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has proposed harvest specifications for the groundfish fisheries in the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands for the years 2025 and 2026. This proposal outlines catch limits, apportionments, and prohibited species catch allowances necessary to manage groundfish resources sustainably, aligning with regulations under the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act. Public comments are invited until January 3, 2025, and these regulations include measures to protect species such as Pacific cod, halibut, and salmon, while ensuring fishing operations do not exceed scientific recommendations for conservation.
Simple Explanation
The National Marine Fisheries Service wants to set new rules to catch fish in Alaska from 2025 to 2026, making sure that fishing doesn't harm the fish populations or the environment. They've asked people to give their thoughts on these rules until January 3, 2025, to ensure they are fair and understandable for everyone.