Groundfish Measures Modified through Final Rule to Support Rebuilding

NOAA Fisheries has published a final rule that implements Framework Adjustment 42 to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan (FMP) and Framework 3 to the Monkfish FMP. Framework 42, developed by the New England Fishery Management Council, is a biennial adjustment to the Northeast Multispecies FMP that sets forth a rebuilding program for Georges Bank yellowtail flounder and modifies management measures to reduce fishing mortality rates on six other groundfish stocks. This will maintain compliance with the rebuilding programs of the FMP. Framework 42 also modifies an! d continues specific measures to mitigate the economic and social impacts of Amendment 13 to the FMP and to allow harvest levels to approach optimum yield. All provisions from the proposed rule are approved except one that would have allowed trip limits for six species to be raised during a fishing year.
A summary of the new regulations is provided in a letter to permit holders. Information on restrictions that apply to recreational fishermen, charter boats and party boats is also available online. The provisions of this final rule take effect on November 22. For more information, contact Douglas.Christel@noaa.gov.