The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is temporarily adjusting the total allowable catch (TAC) amounts for pollock, Atka mackerel, and Pacific cod in the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands for 2025. This change is necessary because the previous TACs were incorrectly specified, and the adjustment aligns them with the best scientific information available. The updated figures are based on recommendations from the North Pacific Fishery Management Council and aim to ensure sustainable fishing practices while considering the conservation of endangered Steller sea lions, which share this habitat. Public comments on this adjustment are invited until January 13, 2025.
Simple Explanation
The government is changing how much fish can be caught in a special ocean area because they found out the old numbers were wrong. They want to make sure there are enough fish for the future and to protect sea lions, and they are asking people to share their thoughts about this change.