Search Results for keywords:"Pacific Coast groundfish fishery"

The National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is seeking public comments on an information collection related to observer programs for at-sea processing vessels involved in the Pacific Coast groundfish fishery. This initiative aims to ensure the efficient gathering of data by observers, which is important for monitoring fishery activities and managing resources to prevent overfishing, in accordance with the Magnuson-Stevens Act. The public is invited to submit comments by March 8, 2021, to assist in evaluating the necessity, efficiency, and burden of these data collection activities. The proposed methods of collection involve both electronic and paper forms, as well as interviews and phone calls.

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has announced routine changes to the management measures for commercial groundfish fishing off the Pacific Coast. This rule, effective March 6, 2025, aims to allow fishing vessels more access to abundant fish stocks while protecting those that are overfished. The NMFS increased the limits for certain rockfish species between specific latitudes in response to recommendations made at a Pacific Fishery Management Council meeting and industry requests. This change is expected to bring economic benefits without exceeding permitted catch limits, and it was implemented rapidly to maximize these benefits.

The final rule by the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) under the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) introduces adjustments to the Pacific Coast groundfish fishery management measures for 2025-2026. These changes include reducing the sub-bag limit for canary rockfish in Oregon's recreational long-leader fishery from five to one fish and adjusting the incidental halibut limit in the sablefish fishery. The aim is to manage fish stocks sustainably by allowing more vessels to participate without exceeding the catch limits. These modifications are based on recent scientific data and recommendations from relevant advisory bodies and were made effective immediately to ensure timely implementation.

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has issued a final rule to implement measures for minimizing salmon bycatch in the Pacific Coast groundfish fishery. These measures aim to reduce the incidental catch of Endangered Species Act-listed Chinook and coho salmon. The rule introduces new management tools, including specific area closures and gear requirements, and establishes conditions under which fishery participants can access a Chinook salmon bycatch reserve. The rule also allows for the creation of Salmon Mitigation Plans (SMPs) by groups of fishing vessels to help manage bycatch while providing certain flexibilities to the industry.