[Federal Register Volume 74, Number 233 (Monday, December 7, 2009)]
[Unknown Section]
[Pages 64395-64419]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E9-28588]


[[Page 64395]]

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Part IV





Department of Commerce





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Semiannual Regulatory Agenda

[[Page 64396]]



DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)






_______________________________________________________________________

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

Office of the Secretary

13 CFR Ch. III

15 CFR Subtitle A; Subtitle B, Chs. I, II, III, VII, VIII, IX, and XI

19 CFR Ch. III

37 CFR Chs. I, IV, and V

48 CFR Ch. 13

50 CFR Chs. II, III, IV, and VI

Fall 2009 Semiannual Agenda of Regulations

AGENCY: Office of the Secretary, Commerce.

ACTION: Semiannual regulatory agenda.

_______________________________________________________________________

SUMMARY: In compliance with Executive Order 12866, entitled 
``Regulatory Planning and Review,'' and the Regulatory Flexibility Act, 
as amended, the Department of Commerce (Department), in the spring and 
fall of each year, publishes in the Federal Register an agenda of 
regulations under development or review over the next 12 months. 
Rulemaking actions are grouped according to prerulemaking, proposed 
rules, final rules, long-term actions, and rulemaking actions completed 
since the spring 2009 agenda. The purpose of the agenda is to provide 
information to the public on regulations currently under review, being 
proposed, or issued by the Department. The agenda is intended to 
facilitate comments and views by interested members of the public.

    The Department's fall 2009 regulatory agenda includes 
regulatory activities that are expected to be conducted during the 
period October 1, 2009, through September 30, 2010.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: 

     Specific: For additional information about specific regulatory 
actions listed in the agenda, contact the individual identified as 
the contact person.

     General: Comments or inquiries of a general nature about the 
agenda should be directed to Jennifer K. Nist, Chief Counsel for 
Regulations, Office of the Assistant General Counsel for 
Legislation and Regulation, U.S. Department of Commerce, 
Washington, DC 20230; telephone: 202-482-3151.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Executive Order 12866 requires agencies to 
publish an agenda of those regulations that are under consideration 
pursuant to this order. By memorandum of August 6, 2009, the Office of 
Management and Budget issued guidelines and procedures for the 
preparation and publication of the fall 2009 Unified Agenda of Federal 
Regulatory and Deregulatory Actions. The Regulatory Flexibility Act, 5 
U.S.C. 601 et seq., requires agencies to publish, in the spring and 
fall of each year, a regulatory flexibility agenda that contains a 
brief description of the subject of any rule likely to have a 
significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. 
The agenda also identifies those entries that have been selected for 
periodic review under section 610 of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.

    For this edition of the Department of Commerce's regulatory 
agenda, the most important significant regulatory actions and a 
Statement of Regulatory Priorities are included in The Regulatory 
Plan, which appears in both the online Unified Agenda and in part 
II of the Federal Register that includes the Unified Agenda.

    In addition, beginning with the fall 2007 edition, the Internet 
became the basic means for disseminating the Unified Agenda. The 
complete Unified Agenda will be available online at 
www.reginfo.gov, in a format that offers users a greatly enhanced 
ability to obtain information from the Agenda database.

    Because publication in the Federal Register is mandated for the 
regulatory flexibility agendas required by the Regulatory 
Flexibility Act (5U.S.C. 602), the Department of Commerce's printed 
agenda entries include only:

    (1) Rules that are in the Agency's regulatory flexibility 
agenda, in accordance with the Regulatory Flexibility Act, because 
they are likely to have a significant economic impact on a 
substantial number of small entities; and

    (2) Rules that the Agency has identified for periodic review 
under section 610 of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.

    Printing of these entries is limited to fields that contain 
information required by the Regulatory Flexibility Act's Agenda 
requirements. Additional information on these entries is available 
in the Unified Agenda published on the Internet. In addition, for 
fall editions of the Agenda, the entire Regulatory Plan will 
continue to be printed in the Federal Register, as in past years, 
including the Department of Commerce's Regulatory Plan.

    Within the Department, the Office of the Secretary and various 
operating units may issue regulations. Operating units, such as the 
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the Bureau 
of Industry and Security, and the Patent and Trademark Office issue 
the greatest share of the Department's regulations.

    A large number of regulatory actions reported in the agenda 
deal with fishery management programs of NOAA's National Marine 
Fisheries Service (NMFS). To avoid repetition of programs and 
definitions, as well as to provide some understanding of the 
technical and institutional elements of the NMFS programs, an 
``Explanation of Information Contained in NMFS Regulatory Entries'' 
is provided below.

    Explanation of Information Contained in NMFS Regulatory Entries

    The Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act 
(16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.) (Act) governs the management of fisheries 
within the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The EEZ refers to those 
waters from the outer edge of the State boundaries, generally 3 
nautical miles, to a distance of 200 nautical miles. Fishery 
Management Plans (FMPs) are to be prepared for fisheries that 
require conservation and management measures. Regulations 
implementing these FMPs regulate domestic fishing and foreign 
fishing where permitted. Foreign fishing may be conducted in a 
fishery in which there is no FMP only if a preliminary fishery 
management plan has been issued to govern that foreign fishing. 
Under the Act, eight Regional Fishery Management Councils 
(Councils) prepare FMPs or amendments to FMPs for fisheries within 
their respective areas. In the development of such plans or 
amendments and their implementing regulations, the Councils are 
required by law to conduct public hearings on the draft plans and 
to consider the use of alternative means of regulating.

    The Council process for developing FMPs and amendments makes it 
difficult for NMFS to determine the

[[Page 64397]]

significance and timing of some regulatory actions under 
consideration by the Councils at the time the semiannual regulatory 
agenda is published.

    The Department's fall 2009 regulatory agenda follows.

 Cameron F. Kerry,

General Counsel.

                              International Trade Administration--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
233         Commercial Availability of Fabric and Yarn............................................    0625-AA59
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                      National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
234         Maximize Retention and Monitoring Program in the Shore-Based Pacific Whiting Fishery..    0648-AR63
235         American Lobster Fishery; Effort Control Measures.....................................    0648-AT31
236         South Atlantic Fishery Ecosystem Plan Comprehensive Amendment.........................    0648-AV31
237         Collection and Use of Tax Identification Numbers From Holders of and Applicants for       0648-AV76
            National Marine Fisheries Service Permits.............................................
238         Amendment 17 to the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council Snapper Grouper Fishery     0648-AW11
            Management Plan.......................................................................
239         Amendment 2 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Queen Conch Fishery of Puerto Rico     0648-AW15
            and the U.S. Virgin Islands...........................................................
240         Marine Mammal Protection Act Stranding Regulation Revisions...........................    0648-AW22
241         Amendment 3 to the Northeast Skate Complex Fishery Management Plan....................    0648-AW30
242         Amendment 4 to the Atlantic Herring Fishery Management Plan...........................    0648-AW75
243         Allowable Modifications to the Turtle Excluder Device (TED) Requirements..............    0648-AW93
244         Regulatory Amendment (3) To Correct and Clarify Amendment 13 and Subsequent      0648-AW95
            Frameworks of the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan......................
245         Amendment 11 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, Butterfish Fishery Management Plan......    0648-AX05
246         Amendment 30 to the Fishery Management Plan for Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands King      0648-AX47
            and Tanner Crabs Arbitration Regulations..............................................
247         Amendment 31 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish Resources of the Gulf of    0648-AX67
            Mexico................................................................................
248         Salmon Bycatch Reduction Management Measures for the Fishery Management Plan (FMP) 91     0648-AX89
            in the Bering Sea Aleutian Islands....................................................
249         2010 Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Recreational Management Measures.......    0648-AY04
250         Maximized Retention Monitoring Program for Catcher Vessels in the Pacific Whiting         0648-AY17
            Mothership Fishery in the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery............................
251         Generic Amendment for Annual Catch Limits.............................................    0648-AY22
252         Protective Regulations for Killer Whales in the Northwest Region Under the Endangered     0648-AV15
            Species Act and Marine Mammal Protection Act..........................................
253         Marine Mammal Protection Act Permit Regulation Revisions..............................    0648-AV82
254         Rulemaking To Establish Take Prohibitions for the Threatened Southern Distinct            0648-AV94
            Population Segment of North American Green Sturgeon...................................
255         Rule to Revise Leatherback Critical Habitat...........................................    0648-AX06
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                        National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
256         Fisheries in the Western Pacific; Pelagic Fisheries; Squid Jig Fisheries..............    0648-AS71
257         Modifying Maximum Retainable Amounts (MRAs) for Selected Groundfish Species Caught by     0648-AV32
            the Non-American Fishing Act Trawl Catcher Processor Sector...........................
258         Certification of Nations Whose Fishing Vessels Are Engaged in Illegal, Unreported or      0648-AV51
            Unregulated Fishing or Bycatch of Protected Living Marine Resources (Reg Plan Seq No.
            34)...................................................................................
259         Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Reauthorization Act (MSRA)           0648-AV53
            Environmental Review Procedure........................................................
260         Initial Implementation of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Convention            0648-AV63
            Implementation Act....................................................................

[[Page 64398]]

 
261         Amendment 15B to the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council Snapper Grouper Fishery    0648-AW12
            Management Plan.......................................................................
262         Revise Regulations Governing the North Pacific Groundfish Observer Program............    0648-AW24
263         Fisheries in the Western Pacific; Western Pacific Pelagic Fisheries; Amendment 18 to      0648-AW49
            the Pelagics Fishery Management Plan; Shallow-set Longline Swordfish Fishery..........
264         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Atlantic Shark Management Measures.................    0648-AW65
265         Halibut Charter Vessel Moratorium.....................................................    0648-AW92
266         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; 2009 North and South Atlantic Commercial Quotas....    0648-AX07
267         Amendment 29 to the Fishery Management Plan for Reef Fish Resources of the Gulf of        0648-AX39
            Mexico................................................................................
268         Western and Central Pacific Fisheries for Highly Migratory Species; Implementation of     0648-AX59
            the Longline Catch Limits Adopted at the Fifth Session of the Western and Central
            Pacific Fisheries Commission..........................................................
269         Snapper-Grouper Fishery Management Plan of the South Atlantic.........................    0648-AX75
270         Amendment 10 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fishery Management Plan..    0648-AY00
271         Provide Regulations for Permits for Capture, Transport, Import, and Export of             0648-AH26
            Protected Species for Public Display, and for Maintaining a Captive Marine Mammal
            Inventory.............................................................................
272         Taking of Marine Mammals Incidental to Specified Activities; Taking Marine Mammals        0648-AX86
            Incidental to Training Operations Conducted Within the Gulf of Mexico Range Complex...
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register.


                       National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
273         Fishery Management Plan for Regulating Offshore Marine Aquaculture in the Gulf of         0648-AS65
            Mexico................................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                       National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
274         Amendment 1 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Tilefish Fishery...................    0648-AS25
275         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS); Reducing Sea Turtle Takes....................    0648-AS49
276         Amendment 10 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fishery Management Plan..    0648-AT58
277         American Lobster Data Collection and Broodstock Protection Measures...................    0648-AV77
278         Amendment 7 to the South Atlantic Shrimp Fishery Management Plan......................    0648-AW19
279         Fisheries Off West Coast States; Highly Migratory Species Fisheries...................    0648-AW50
280         Fisheries in the Western Pacific; Compensation to Northwestern Hawaiian Islands           0648-AW52
            Bottomfish and Lobster Fishermen Due to Fishery Closure in the Papahanaumokuakea
            Marine National Monument..............................................................
281         Amendment 16 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Snapper Grouper Fishery of the        0648-AW64
            South Atlantic Region.................................................................
282         Amendment 27 to the Fishery Management Plan for Bering Sea/Aleutian Islands King and      0648-AW73
            Tanner Crabs..........................................................................
283         Amendment 28 to the Fishery Management Plan for Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands King      0648-AW97
            and Tanner Crab.......................................................................
284         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS); 2009 Atlantic Bluefin Tuna Quota                 0648-AX12
            Specifications and Management Measures................................................
285         Amendment 92 to the Fishery Management Plan for Bering Sea/Aleutian Islands Groundfish    0648-AX14
            and Amendment 82 to the Fishery Management Plan for Gulf of Alaska Groundfish.........
286         One-Fish Daily Bag Limit for the Guided Sport Charter Vessel Fishery for Halibut in       0648-AX17
            Regulatory Area 2C....................................................................
287         Amendment 90 to the Fishery Management Plan for Bering Sea/Aleutian Islands Groundfish    0648-AX25
            and Amendment 78 to the Fishery Management Plan for Gulf of Alaska Groundfish.........
288         Amendment 85 to the Fishery Management Plan for Groundfish of the Gulf of Alaska......    0648-AX42
289         2009 Atlantic Bluefish Specifications.................................................    0648-AX49
290         Definition of U.S. Citizen............................................................    0648-AX52
291         2009 Specifications and Management Measures for the Spiny Dogfish Fishery Management      0648-AX57
            Plan..................................................................................
292         Western and Central Pacific Fisheries for Highly Migratory Species; Implementation of     0648-AX60
            Decisions of the Fifth Session of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission
            for Purse Seine Fisheries.............................................................
293         2009 Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Recreational Management Measures.......    0648-AX69
294         Reef Fish Amendment 30B to the Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish Resources of     0648-AX73
            the Gulf of Mexico: Measure To Establish the Edges Seasonal-Area Closure..............

[[Page 64399]]

 
295         Establish 2009 Fishery Specifications for Pacific Whiting; Pacific Groundfish Fishery;    0648-AX77
            Biennial Specifications and Management Measures.......................................
296         Pacific Coast Groundfish Inseason Action for May 1, 2009..............................    0648-AX84
297         Establish a Control Date for the Reef Fish, Queen Conch, and Spiny Lobster Fisheries      0648-AX92
            of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands............................................
298         Atlantic Pelagic Longline Take Reduction Plan.........................................    0648-AV65
299         Designation of Critical Habitat for the Endangered U.S. Distinct Population Segment       0648-AV74
            (DPS) of Guided Smalltooth Sawfish....................................................
300         Harbor Porpoise Take Reduction Plan Regulations.......................................    0648-AW51
301         Rulemaking to Designate Critical Habitat for the Gulf of Maine Distinct Population        0648-AW77
            Segment of Atlantic Salmon............................................................
302         Rulemaking To Designate Critical Habitat for the Threatened Southern Distinct             0648-AX04
            Population Segment of North American Green Sturgeon...................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                 Patent and Trademark Office--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
303         Examination of Patent Applications That Include Claims Containing Alternative Language    0651-AC00
304         Fiscal Year 2009 Revision of Request for Continued Examination, 18-Month Publication,     0651-AC29
            and Other Miscellaneous Cost-Recovery Patent Fees.....................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Long-Term Actions


International Trade Administration (ITA)



_______________________________________________________________________




233. COMMERCIAL AVAILABILITY OF FABRIC AND YARN

Legal Authority: PL 106-200, sec 112(b)(5)(B); PL 106-200, sec 211; EO 
13191; PL 107-210, sec 3103

Abstract: This rule implements certain provisions of the Trade and 
Development Act of 2000 (the Act). Title I of the Act (the African 
Growth and Opportunity Act or AGOA), title II of the Act (the United 
States-Caribbean Basin Trade Partnership Act or CBTPA), and title XXXI 
of the Trade Act of 2002 (the Andean Trade Promotion and Drug 
Eradication Act or ATPDEA) provide for quota- and duty-free treatment 
for qualifying apparel products from designated beneficiary countries. 
AGOA and CBTPA authorize quota- and duty-free treatment for apparel 
articles that are both cut (or knit-to-shape) and sewn or otherwise 
assembled in one or more designated beneficiary countries from yarn or 
fabric that is not formed in the United States or a beneficiary 
country, provided it has been determined that such yarn or fabric 
cannot be supplied by the domestic industry in commercial quantities in 
a timely manner. The President has delegated to the Committee for the 
Implementation of Textile Agreements (the Committee), which is chaired 
by Commerce, the authority to determine whether yarn or fabric cannot 
be supplied by the domestic industry in commercial quantities in a 
timely manner under the AGOA, the ATPDEA, and the CBTPA, and has 
authorized the Committee to extend quota- and duty-free treatment to 
apparel of such yarn or fabric. The rule provides the procedure for 
interested parties to submit a request alleging that a yarn or fabric 
cannot be supplied by the domestic industry in commercial quantities in 
a timely manner, the procedure for public comments, and relevant 
factors that will be considered in the Committee's determination. The 
rule also outlines the factors to be considered by the Committee in 
extending quota- and duty-free treatment.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Janet Heinzen
Phone: 202 482-4006
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0625-AA59

[[Page 64400]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                        Proposed Rule Stage


National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)



_______________________________________________________________________



NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE


                    ________________________________



234. MAXIMIZE RETENTION AND MONITORING PROGRAM IN THE SHORE-BASED 
PACIFIC WHITING FISHERY

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: The Pacific Fishery Management Council (Pacific Council) at 
their October 21-25, 1996, meeting in San Francisco, California 
addressed the treatment and disposition of salmon in the groundfish 
trawl fisheries, specifically the shore-based whiting fishery. At that 
meeting, the Pacific Council discussed the retention of salmon in the 
shore-based whiting fishery and took action to maintain a viable shore-
based whiting fishery by using exempted fishing permits (EFPs). These 
EFPs allowed the shore-based whiting fleet to temporarily deliver 
unsorted catch to processing plants and provided for the monitoring of 
incidentally taken salmon until a permanent monitoring program could be 
implemented. In keeping with the Pacific Council's recommendation, NMFS 
is proceeding with implementing a monitoring program for the shore-
based whiting fishery. This action will aid in the sustainable 
management of Pacific Coast salmon and groundfish fisheries while 
providing an important economic opportunity to those associated with 
the harvest, processing, and selling of whiting taken by the shore-
based whiting fleet. The need for implementing a permanent monitoring 
program in the shore-based Pacific whiting fishery is to provide for a 
full retention fishery by enabling the shore-based whiting fleet, 
comprised exclusively of catcher vessels, to deliver unsorted catch to 
processing plants. This practice is necessary to ensure that whiting 
landings are of market quality, while abiding by Federal groundfish 
regulations and those implementing the Pacific Coast salmon and 
groundfish fishery management plans (FMPs).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/10
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Barry Thom, Regional Administrator, Northwest Region, 
NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way NE., Building 1, Seattle, WA 48115-
0070
Phone: 206 526-6150
Fax: 206 526-6426
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AR63
_______________________________________________________________________




235. AMERICAN LOBSTER FISHERY; EFFORT CONTROL MEASURES

Legal Authority: 16 USC 5101 et seq

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service announces that it is 
considering, and seeking public comment on, revisions to Federal 
American lobster regulations for the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) 
associated with effort control measures as recommended for Federal 
implementation by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission 
(ASFMC) as outlined in the Interstate Fishery Management Plan (ISFMP) 
for American Lobster. This action will evaluate effort control measures 
in certain Lobster Conservation Management Areas including: Limits on 
future access based on historic participation criteria; procedures to 
allow trap transfers among qualifiers and impose a trap reduction or 
conservation tax on any trap transfers; and a trap reduction schedule 
to meet the goals of the ISFMP.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           05/10/05                    70 FR 24495
ANPRM Comment Period End        06/09/05
NPRM                            12/00/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AT31
_______________________________________________________________________




236. SOUTH ATLANTIC FISHERY ECOSYSTEM PLAN COMPREHENSIVE AMENDMENT

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: The purpose of this action is to develop an ecosystem-based 
approach to resource management. The South Atlantic Council plans to 
develop a Fishery Ecosystem Plan (FEP) Comprehensive Amendment, which 
would modify all its Fishery Management Plans (FMPs). The initial 
amendment would include the following actions: (1) Various actions to 
comply with new essential fish habitat requirements; (2) establishment 
of deep water coral Habitat Areas of Particular Concern, with possible 
gear limitations, such as the establishment of allowable trawl areas; 
and (3) other possible actions necessary to implement ecosystem-based 
fishery management.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/10
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AV31
_______________________________________________________________________




237. COLLECTION AND USE OF TAX IDENTIFICATION NUMBERS FROM HOLDERS OF 
AND APPLICANTS FOR NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE PERMITS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq; 16 USC 1531 et seq; 31 USC 7701; 
31 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: In conformance with the Debt Collection Improvement Act of 
1996 (Debt Collection Act), the National Marine Fisheries Service 
(NMFS) will issue a rule to require that each existing holder of and 
future applicant for a permit, license, endorsement, authorization, 
transfer or like instrument issued by the agency provide a Taxpayer 
Identification Number (TIN) (business' employer identification number 
or individual's

[[Page 64401]]

social security number) and Date of Incorporation or Date of Birth, as 
appropriate. Under the Debt Collection Act, NMFS is required to collect 
the TIN to report on and collect any delinquent non-tax debt owed to 
the Federal Government. NMFS plans to use Date of Incorporation or Date 
of Birth information for administrative aspects of permitting 
procedures with appropriate confidentiality safeguards pursuant to the 
Privacy Act. The rule will specify (a) the particular uses that may be 
made of the reported TIN, (b) the effects, if any, of not providing the 
required information, (c) how the information will be used to ascertain 
if the permit holder or applicant owes delinquent non-tax debt to the 
Government pursuant to the Debt Collection Act, (d) the effects on the 
permit holder or applicant when such delinquent debts are owed, and (e) 
the agency's intended communications with the permit holder or 
applicant regarding the relationship of such delinquent debts to its 
permitting process and the need to resolve such debts as a basis for 
completing permit issuance or renewal. The rule will amend existing 
agency permit regulations and contain all appropriate modified and new 
collections-of-information pursuant to the Paperwork Reduction Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 13362, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2334
Fax: 301 713-0596
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AV76
_______________________________________________________________________




238. AMENDMENT 17 TO THE SOUTH ATLANTIC FISHERY MANAGEMENT COUNCIL 
SNAPPER GROUPER FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: Amendment 17 is intended to: establish management reference 
points (MSY, OY) for red snapper; establish a rebuilding plan 
(rebuilding timeframe and rebuilding strategy) for red snapper; specify 
Annual Catch Limits (ACL), Annual Catch Targets (ACT), and 
Accountability Measures (AM) for 10 species undergoing overfishing; and 
modify management measures to ensure future catch is equal to or below 
the ACL.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/09
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AW11
_______________________________________________________________________




239. AMENDMENT 2 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE QUEEN CONCH 
FISHERY OF PUERTO RICO AND THE U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: St. Croix queen conch landings by commercial fishermen alone 
have exceeded sustainable harvest levels since the 2000-2001 fishing 
season. In 2005-2006 the commercial harvest was over four times 
sustainable levels. Additionally, there is an unknown but significant 
recreational harvest. Overfishing of queen conch has led to resource 
collapse in other regions and in some cases, long-term resource loss. 
According to the NMFS Report on the Status of the U.S. Fisheries for 
2006, queen conch is overfished and undergoing overfishing. Under 
current fishing practices, reductions in mortality are not expected to 
be sufficient in the queen conch fishery. Without a reduction in 
mortality, queen conch are not expected to achieve the rebuilding goals 
established in the Sustainable Fisheries Amendment of 2005. Therefore, 
a change in fishing practices is needed to help achieve the necessary 
reductions in queen conch fishing mortality.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice of Intent                10/11/07                    72 FR 58057
NPRM                            12/00/09
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/10
Final Action                    01/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AW15
_______________________________________________________________________




240. MARINE MAMMAL PROTECTION ACT STRANDING REGULATION REVISIONS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1379; 16 USC 1382; 16 USC 1421

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is considering 
proposing changes to its implementing regulations (50 CFR 216) 
governing the taking of stranded marine mammals under section 109(h), 
section 112(c), and title IV of the Marine Mammal Protection Act and is 
soliciting public comment to better inform the process. NMFS intends 
clarify the requirements and procedures for responding to stranded 
marine mammals and for determining the disposition of rehabilitated 
marine mammals, which includes the procedures for the placement of non-
releasable animals and for authorizing the retention of releasable 
rehabilitated marine mammals for scientific research, enhancement, or 
public display. This action will be analyzed under the National 
Environmental Policy Act with an Environmental Assessment.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           01/31/08                     73 FR 5786
ANPRM Comment Period End        03/31/08
NPRM                            12/00/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: David Cottingham, Department of Commerce, National 
Oceanic and Atmospheric

[[Page 64402]]

Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2322
Fax: 301 713-2521
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AW22
_______________________________________________________________________




241. AMENDMENT 3 TO THE NORTHEAST SKATE COMPLEX FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: NMFS proposes regulations to implement measures in Amendment 
3 to the Northeast Skate Complex Fishery Management Plan (Skate FMP). 
Amendment 3 was developed by the New England Fishery Management Council 
(Council) to rebuild overfished skate stocks (thorny and smooth skates) 
and implement annual catch limits (ACLs) and accountability measures 
(AMs) consistent with the requirements of the reauthorized Magnuson-
Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act. Amendment 3 would 
establish an ACL and annual catch target (ACT) for the skate complex, 
total allowable landings (TAL) for the skate wing and bait fisheries, 
seasonal quotas for the bait fishery, reduced possession limits, in-
season possession limit triggers, and other measures to improve 
management of the skate fisheries. This rule also includes skate 
fishery specifications for fishing years (FY) 2010 through 2011.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/09
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AW30
_______________________________________________________________________




242. AMENDMENT 4 TO THE ATLANTIC HERRING FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: The goal of Amendment 4 is to improve catch monitoring and 
ensure compliance with the Reauthorized Magnuson-Stevens Fishery 
Conservation and Management Act (MSRA). The management measures 
developed in this amendment may address one or more of the following 
objectives: (1) To implement measures to improve the long-term 
monitoring of catch (landings and bycatch) in the herring fishery; (2) 
to implement annual catch limits and accountability measures consistent 
with the MSRA; (3) to implement other management measures as necessary 
to ensure compliance with the new provisions of the MSRA; (4) to 
develop a sector allocation process or other limited access privilege 
program for the herring fishery; and (5) in the context of objectives 
1-4 (above), to consider the health of the herring resource and the 
important role of herring as a forage fish and a predator fish 
throughout its range.
The New England Fishery Management Council will develop conservation 
and management measures to address the issues identified above and meet 
the goals/objectives of the amendment. Any conservation and management 
measures developed in this amendment also must comply with all 
applicable laws.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NOI To Prepare An EIS           05/08/08                    73 FR 26082
NPRM                            12/00/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AW75
_______________________________________________________________________




243. ALLOWABLE MODIFICATIONS TO THE TURTLE EXCLUDER DEVICE (TED) 
REQUIREMENTS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq

Abstract: NMFS proposes to revise the TED requirements to allow new 
materials and modifications to existing approved TED designs. 
Specifically, proposed allowable modifications include the use of flat 
bar, box pipe, and oval pipe for use in currently-approved TED grids; 
an increase in mesh size on escape flaps from 1-5/8 inches to 2 inches; 
the use of the Boone single straight cut and triangular escape 
openings; specifications on the use of TED grid brace bars; and the use 
of the Chauvin Shrimp Kicker to improve shrimp retention.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Michael Barnette, Department of Commerce, National 
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, 
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 551-5794

RIN: 0648-AW93
_______________________________________________________________________




244. REGULATORY AMENDMENT (#3) TO CORRECT AND CLARIFY AMENDMENT 13 AND 
SUBSEQUENT FRAMEWORKS OF THE NORTHEAST MULTISPECIES FISHERY MANAGEMENT 
PLAN

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: This action would make corrections and clarifications to the 
final rule implementing Amendment 13 to the Northeast Multispecies 
Fishery Management Plan, as well as subsequent groundfish actions. 
These corrections are administrative in nature and are intended to 
correct inaccurate references and other inadvertent errors and to 
clarify specific regulations to maintain consistency with the intent of 
Amendment 13 and subsequent actions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AW95

[[Page 64403]]

_______________________________________________________________________




245. AMENDMENT 11 TO THE ATLANTIC MACKEREL, SQUID, BUTTERFISH FISHERY 
MANAGEMENT PLAN

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: Amendment 11 may consider: (1) Limited access in the Atlantic 
mackerel (mackerel) fishery; (2) implementation of annual catch limits 
(ACLs) and accountability measures (AMs) for mackerel and butterfish 
required under the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management 
Reauthorization Act of 2006 (MSRA); (3) updating of the description and 
identification of essential fish habitat (EFH) for all life stages of 
mackerel, Loligo squid, Illex squid, and butterfish (including gear 
impacts on Loligo squid egg EFH); and (4) possible limitations on at-
sea processing of mackerel.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice of Intent                08/11/08                    73 FR 46590
NPRM                            12/00/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AX05
_______________________________________________________________________




246. AMENDMENT 30 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR BERING SEA AND 
ALEUTIAN ISLANDS KING AND TANNER CRABS ARBITRATION REGULATIONS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1862; PL 109-241; PL 109-479

Abstract: The proposed action would implement Amendment 30 to the 
Fishery Management Plan for Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands King and 
Tanner Crabs to make minor modifications to the arbitration system used 
to settle price and other disputes among harvesters and processors in 
the Bering Sea/Aleutian Islands crab rationalization program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AX47
_______________________________________________________________________




247. AMENDMENT 31 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE REEF FISH 
RESOURCES OF THE GULF OF MEXICO

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: In September 2008, NOAA's National Marine Fisheries (NMFS) 
released a report based on observer data that indicated the total 
number of loggerhead sea turtle takes by the eastern Gulf of Mexico 
reef fish bottom longline fishery was much greater than that authorized 
in the most recent biological opinion. In response, the Gulf of Mexico 
Fishery Management Council (Council) requested NMFS take emergency 
action to reduce the number of takes by the fishery during the short 
term while the Council develops long-term measures in Amendment 31. 
Measures being considered include: (1) Modifying baits; (2) area, 
season, and depth restrictions; (3) reducing effort through a longline 
endorsement program; and (4) using observers or electronic monitoring 
to close the fishery once a sea turtle take threshold has been met.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AX67
_______________________________________________________________________




248.  SALMON BYCATCH REDUCTION MANAGEMENT MEASURES FOR 
THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN (FMP) 91 IN THE BERING SEA ALEUTIAN ISLANDS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 773 et seq; 16 USC 1801 et seq; 16 USC 3631 et 
seq; PL 108-447

Abstract: This fishery management plan amendment and rulemaking will 
implement the North Pacific Fishery Management Council's 
recommendations for management measures to minimize to the extent 
practicable Chinook salmon bycatch in the Bering Sea pollock fishery. 
These management measures provide two options for the pollock sectors 
(e.g., inshore catcher vessels, offshore catcher-processors, catcher 
vessels delivering to motherships, or CDQ entities): fish under a lower 
Chinook salmon cap or participate in an incentive program and fish 
under a higher cap. Under the first option, the fleet as a whole may 
choose to fish under a transferable cap of 47,591 Chinook salmon, which 
would be allocated by season and sector. Once each sector reaches its 
specific cap, it would be prohibited from continuing to fish for 
pollock for the remainder of the season. Alternatively, vessels or CDQ 
entities may choose to participate in private contracts called 
incentive plan agreements (IPA) which would describe how participants 
would maintain low bycatch even when their bycatch levels are well 
below the hard cap approved. Those vessels or CDQ entities 
participating in an IPA would be allocated a transferable share of up 
to 60,000 Chinook salmon. This cap would be reduced for any vessels or 
CDQ entities not participating in an IPA and those vessels and CDQ 
entities would fish under a lower, non-transferable cap. In addition to 
the annual cap levels, if any sector operating under an IPA exceeds its 
proportion of 47,591 Chinook salmon three times in any seven-year 
period, the sector's maximum bycatch limit will be permanently reduced 
to its proportional share of the 47,591 cap. If the FMP amendments and 
proposed rule are approved, fishing under the new Chinook salmon 
bycatch management measures would start in 2011.

[[Page 64404]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

FMP                             12/00/09
Final Rule FMP                  08/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AX89
_______________________________________________________________________




249.  2010 SUMMER FLOUNDER, SCUP, AND BLACK SEA BASS 
RECREATIONAL MANAGEMENT MEASURES

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: This action will propose and implement the 2010 recreational 
management measures (minimum fish size, fishing seasons, and possession 
limits) for the summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass fisheries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AY04
_______________________________________________________________________




250.  MAXIMIZED RETENTION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR 
CATCHER VESSELS IN THE PACIFIC WHITING MOTHERSHIP FISHERY IN THE PACIFIC 
COAST GROUNDFISH FISHERY

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: The action would implement a monitoring program for catcher 
vessels in the mothership sector of the Pacific whiting fishery off the 
coast of Washington, Oregon, and California. The monitoring program 
would consist of a camera and other sensors to monitor fishing activity 
in order to maintain the integrity of the maximized retention 
requirements found at 50 CFR 660.306 (f)(7). Maximized retention 
encourages full retention of all catch while allowing minor discard 
events to occur. This ensures that unsorted catch is available for 
observers to monitor on board the mothership processors and thereby 
maintain the integrity of data collected under the observer program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/09
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Frank Lockhart, Program Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand 
Point Way NE., Seattle, WA 98115
Phone: 206 526-6142
Fax: 206 526-6736
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AY17
_______________________________________________________________________




251.  GENERIC AMENDMENT FOR ANNUAL CATCH LIMITS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: The generic amendment is intended to modify five of the 
Council's FMPs. These include FMPs for: Reef Fish Resources, Shrimp, 
Stone Crab, Coral and Coral Reef Resources, and Red Drum. NMFS and the 
Council will develop these ACLs in co-operation with the Scientific and 
Statistical Committee and the Southeast Fisheries Science Center.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/10
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AY22
_______________________________________________________________________




252. PROTECTIVE REGULATIONS FOR KILLER WHALES IN THE NORTHWEST REGION 
UNDER THE ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT AND MARINE MAMMAL PROTECTION ACT

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq; 16 USC 1531 to 1543

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is considering 
whether to propose regulations to protect killer whales (Orcinus orca) 
in the Pacific Northwest. The Southern Resident killer whale distinct 
population segment (DPS) was listed as endangered under the Endangered 
Species Act (ESA) on November 18, 2005 (70 FR 69903). In the final rule 
announcing the listing, NMFS identified vessel effects, including 
direct interference and sound, as a potential contributing factor in 
the recent decline of this population. Both the Marine Mammal 
Protection Act (MMPA) and the ESA prohibit take, including harassment, 
of killer whales, but these statutes do not prohibit specified acts. 
NMFS is now considering whether to propose regulations that would 
prohibit certain acts, under our general authorities under the ESA and 
MMPA and their implementing regulations. The Proposed Recovery Plan for 
Southern Resident killer whales (71 FR 69101; November 29, 2006) 
includes as a management action the evaluation of current guidelines 
and the need for regulations and/or protected areas. The scope of this 
ANPR encompasses the activities of any person or conveyance that may 
result in the unauthorized taking of killer whales and/or that may 
cause detrimental individual-level and population-level impacts. NMFS 
requests comments on whether--and if so, what type of--conservation 
measures, regulations, and, if necessary, other measures would be 
appropriate to protect killer whales from the effects of these 
activities.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           03/22/07                    72 FR 13464
ANPRM Comment Period End        04/23/07
NPRM                            07/29/09                    74 FR 37674
NPRM Comment Period Extended    10/19/09                    74 FR 53454

[[Page 64405]]

NPRM Comment Period End         10/27/09
NPRM Extended Comment Period End12/01/09
Final Action                    05/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: James H. Lecky, Director, Office of Protected 
Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2332
Fax: 301 427-2520
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AV15
_______________________________________________________________________




253. MARINE MAMMAL PROTECTION ACT PERMIT REGULATION REVISIONS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1374

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is considering 
changes to its implementing regulations (50 CFR 216) governing the 
issuance of permits for scientific research and enhancement activities 
under Section 104 of the Marine Mammal Protection Act and is soliciting 
public comment to better inform the process. NMFS intends to streamline 
and clarify general permitting requirements and requirements for 
scientific research and enhancement permits, simplify procedures for 
transferring marine mammal parts, possibly apply the General 
Authorization (GA) to research activities involving Level A harassment 
of non-endangered marine mammals, and implement a ``permit application 
cycle'' for application submission and processing of all marine mammal 
permits. NMFS intends to write regulations for marine mammal 
photography permits and is considering whether this activity should be 
covered by the GA.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           09/13/07                    72 FR 52339
ANPRM Comment Period Extended   10/15/07                    72 FR 58279
ANPRM Comment Period End        11/13/07
ANPRM Comment Period Extended   12/13/07                    72 FR 58279
NPRM                            12/00/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Dr. Michael Payne, Fishery Biologist, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, P.O. Box 
21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7235
Fax: 301 713-2521
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AV82
_______________________________________________________________________




254. RULEMAKING TO ESTABLISH TAKE PROHIBITIONS FOR THE THREATENED 
SOUTHERN DISTINCT POPULATION SEGMENT OF NORTH AMERICAN GREEN STURGEON

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 to 1543

Abstract: Under section 4(d) of the Federal Endangered Species Act 
(ESA), the Secretary of Commerce is required to adopt such regulations 
as he deems necessary and advisable for the conservation of species 
listed as threatened. This rulemaking would establish an ESA section 
4(d) rule representing regulations that NMFS believes necessary and 
advisable to conserve the threatened Southern Distinct Population 
Segment of North American green sturgeon (Southern DPS of green 
sturgeon). The 4(d) rule would apply the prohibitions listed under ESA 
section 9(a)(1)(A) and 9(a)(1)(D) through 9(a)(1)(G) for the Southern 
DPS and apply ESA section 9(a)(1)(B) and (a)(1)(C) prohibitions (called 
the ``take prohibitions'') to specific activities that take Southern 
DPS fish or alter its habitat in a manner detrimental to the continued 
existence of the species. The 4(d) rule would include exceptions to the 
take prohibitions for activities conducted in a way that NMFS deems 
adequate to protect or conserve the Southern DPS.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/09
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Marta Nammack, Office of Protected Resources, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-1401
Fax: 301 427-2523
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AV94
_______________________________________________________________________




255. RULE TO REVISE LEATHERBACK CRITICAL HABITAT

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service, announces a rule to 
revise leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea) critical habitat under 
the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended. The leatherback is 
currently listed as endangered throughout its range, and critical 
habitat consists of Sandy Point Beach and adjacent waters, St. Croix, 
U.S. Virgin Islands. This rule would revise critical habitat to include 
waters along the U.S. West Coast.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Therese Conant, Department of Commerce, National 
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East West Highway, Silver 
Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-1431
Fax: 301 713-0376
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AX06

[[Page 64406]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                           Final Rule Stage


National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)



_______________________________________________________________________



NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE


                    ________________________________



256. FISHERIES IN THE WESTERN PACIFIC; PELAGIC FISHERIES; SQUID JIG 
FISHERIES

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: This action would designate pelagic squid as a management 
unit species under the Western Pacific Pelagics Fishery Management 
Plan, and establish permitting and reporting requirements.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice of Availability          08/11/08                    73 FR 46581
NPRM                            08/28/08                    73 FR 50751
Notice Comment Period End       10/10/08
NPRM Comment Period End         10/14/08
Final Action                    11/21/08                    73 FR 70600
Collection of Information 
Approval                        12/00/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 
96814
Phone: 808 944-2207
Fax: 808 973-2941
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AS71
_______________________________________________________________________




257. MODIFYING MAXIMUM RETAINABLE AMOUNTS (MRAS) FOR SELECTED GROUNDFISH 
SPECIES CAUGHT BY THE NON-AMERICAN FISHING ACT TRAWL CATCHER PROCESSOR 
SECTOR

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service issues this action to 
amend regulations specifying the current interval of time allowed for 
determining the maximum retainable amount (MRA) of selected groundfish 
species that can be retained by non-American Fishery Act trawl catcher 
processors. This action would change MRA regulations located at 50 CFR 
679.20(e) that establish the calculation of MRAs for groundfish species 
that are closed to directed fishing by increasing the interval of time 
each vessel in this sector would have to retain the MRA specified in 
regulation for several species in the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands. 
This action is intended to promote the goals and objectives of the 
Fishery Management Plan (FMP) for Groundfish of the Bering Sea and 
Aleutian Islands Management Area.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/13/09                     74 FR 7209
NPRM Comment Period End         03/16/09
Final Rule                      12/00/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AV32
_______________________________________________________________________




258. CERTIFICATION OF NATIONS WHOSE FISHING VESSELS ARE ENGAGED IN 
ILLEGAL, UNREPORTED OR UNREGULATED FISHING OR BYCATCH OF PROTECTED 
LIVING MARINE RESOURCES

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 34 in part II of this issue of 
the Federal Register.

RIN: 0648-AV51
_______________________________________________________________________




259. MAGNUSON-STEVENS FISHERY CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT 
REAUTHORIZATION ACT (MSRA) ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW PROCEDURE

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: Section 107 of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and 
Management Reauthorization Act (MSRA) (P.L. 109-479) requires NOAA 
Fisheries to revise and update agency procedures for complying with the 
National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) in context of fishery 
management actions. It further requires that NOAA Fisheries consult 
with the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) and the Regional 
Fishery Management Councils (Councils), and involve the public in the 
development of the revised procedures. The MSRA provides that the 
resulting procedures will be the sole environmental impact assessment 
procedure for fishery management actions, and that they must conform to 
the time lines for review and approval of fishery management plans and 
plan amendments. They must also integrate applicable environmental 
analytical procedures, including the time frames for public input, with 
the procedure for the preparation and dissemination of fishery 
management plans, plan amendments and other actions taken or approved 
pursuant to this Act in order to provide for timely, clear and concise 
analysis that is useful to decision makers and the public, reduce 
extraneous paperwork, and effectively involve the public.
NOAA Fisheries is currently consulting with the councils, the public 
and CEQ to develop a proposed procedure.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/14/08                    73 FR 27998
NPRM Comment Period End         06/13/08
Final Action                    12/00/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Steve Leathery, Department of Commerce, National 
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver 
Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2239
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AV53
_______________________________________________________________________




260. INITIAL IMPLEMENTATION OF THE WESTERN AND CENTRAL PACIFIC FISHERIES 
CONVENTION IMPLEMENTATION ACT

Legal Authority: 44 USC 3501 et seq; PL 109-479

Abstract: This action will implement, in part, the Western and Central 
Pacific Fisheries Convention (WCPFC) Implementation Act, which 
authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to promulgate regulations needed 
to carry out the obligations of the United States under the WCPFC. The 
action will include regulations applicable to owners and operators of 
U.S. vessels used to fish for highly migratory fish stocks in the 
western and central Pacific ocean, possibly including requirements to, 
among others, obtain authorization to fish, carry position-fixing 
transmitters as part of a vessel

[[Page 64407]]

monitoring system, accommodate observers from a regional observer 
program, report fishing activity, accept boarding and inspection by 
authorized inspectors of other members of the Commission, and to 
prohibit transshipping at sea from purse seine vessels.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/22/09                    74 FR 23965
NPRM Comment Period End         06/22/09
Final Rule                      12/00/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Dr. Charles Karnella, Pacific Islands Area Office, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Suite 1110, Honolulu, HI 
96814-4700
Phone: 808 973-2985
Fax: 808 973-2941
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AV63
_______________________________________________________________________




261. AMENDMENT 15B TO THE SOUTH ATLANTIC FISHERY MANAGEMENT COUNCIL 
SNAPPER GROUPER FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: Amendment 15B would assess the practicability of prohibiting 
the sale of recreationally caught fish; assess the practicability of 
changes to the renewal period on commercial snapper grouper permits; 
assess the practicability of allowing one-to-one transfers of 
commercial permits from an individual to a family-held corporation; 
implement a plan to monitor and assess bycatch; implement measures to 
minimize the impacts of incidental take on sea turtles and smalltooth 
sawfish; update management reference points for golden tilefish; and 
define allocation for snowy grouper and black sea bass.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice of Availability          06/04/09                    74 FR 26827
NPRM                            06/30/09                    74 FR 31225
Notice of Availabilty Comment 
Period End                      08/03/09
NPRM Comment Period End         08/04/09
Final Action                    12/00/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AW12
_______________________________________________________________________




262. REVISE REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE NORTH PACIFIC GROUNDFISH OBSERVER 
PROGRAM

Legal Authority: 118 Stat 110; 16 USC 773 et seq; 16 USC 1801 et seq; 
16 USC 3631 et seq; PL 108-199

Abstract: This rulemaking would revise Federal regulations relevant to 
numerous administrative and procedural requirements applicable to 
observer providers, observers, and industry participating in the North 
Pacific Groundfish Observer Program. Specifically, this action would: 
Modify the current permit issuance process so that observer and 
observer provider permit issuance is a discretionary National Marine 
Fisheries Service (NMFS) decision; amend current Federal regulations 
addressing observer behavior involving drugs, alcohol, and physical 
sexual conduct to remove NMFS oversight of observer behavior that does 
not affect job performance; require that observer providers submit 
policies related to these activities and continue to notify NMFS upon 
learning of an incident; revise Federal regulations so that observer 
providers are allowed to provide observers or technical staff for 
purposes of exempted fishing permits, scientific research permits, or 
other scientific research activities; revise the definition of 
``fishing day'' in Federal regulations; require observer providers to 
annually submit detailed economic information to NMFS; specify a date 
by which observers who have collected data in the previous fishing year 
would be required to be available for debriefing; and implement 
housekeeping issues related to errors or clarifications in existing 
regulations at 50 CFR 679.50.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/30/09                    74 FR 50155
NPRM Comment Period End         10/30/09
Final Action                    12/00/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AW24
_______________________________________________________________________




263. FISHERIES IN THE WESTERN PACIFIC; WESTERN PACIFIC PELAGIC 
FISHERIES; AMENDMENT 18 TO THE PELAGICS FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN; 
SHALLOW-SET LONGLINE SWORDFISH FISHERY

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: Amendment 18 would remove the annual limit on the number of 
fishing gear deployments (sets) for the Hawaii-based pelagic longline 
fishery. The amendment would also revise the current maximum limit on 
the number of physical interactions that occur annually between 
loggerhead sea turtles and vessels registered for use under Hawaii 
longline limited access permits while shallow-setting. Other measures 
currently applicable to the fishery would remain unchanged. Amendment 
18 is intended to increase opportunities for the shallow-set fishery to 
sustainably harvest swordfish and other fish species, without 
jeopardizing the continued existence of sea turtles and other protected 
resources.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice of Availability          03/18/09                    74 FR 11518
Notice of Availability Comment 
Period End                      05/18/09
NPRM                            06/19/09                    74 FR 29158
NPRM Comment Period End         08/03/09
Final Rule                      12/00/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601

[[Page 64408]]

Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 96814
Phone: 808 944-2207
Fax: 808 973-2941
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AW49
_______________________________________________________________________




264. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES; ATLANTIC SHARK MANAGEMENT 
MEASURES

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: This rule would evaluate the management measures for small 
coastal sharks (SCS) based on the results of the 2007 SCS stock 
assessment. This rulemaking could consider, among other things, 
commercial quotas and trip limits, recreational minimum size and bag 
limits, time/area closures, and the public display quota. In addition, 
this rule would implement a rebuilding plan for blacknose sharks. To 
the extent that blacknose sharks are caught in fisheries that are not 
targeted highly migratory species fisheries, the National Marine 
Fisheries Service (NMFS) will work with the appropriate Regional 
Fishery Management Council, Interstate Commission, and States to 
implement regulations through their processes to rebuild blacknose 
sharks. This action is necessary in light of recent stock assessments, 
which have determined that blacknose sharks are overfished with 
overfishing occurring. As needed, this rule may include others items to 
clarify existing regulations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice of Intent                05/07/08                    73 FR 25665
Notice of Scoping Meetings and 
Extension of Comment Period     07/02/08                    73 FR 37932
Notice of Intent Comment Period 
End                             08/05/08
Notice of Intent Comment Period 
Extended--Second Extension      10/29/08                    73 FR 64307
Notice of Intent Comment Period 
Extension End                   10/31/08
Second Extension Comment Period 
End                             11/14/08
NPRM                            07/24/09                    74 FR 36892
NPRM Comment Period End         09/22/09
NPRM Comment Period Extended    08/10/09                    74 FR 39914
NPRM Comment Period Extended End09/25/09
Final Action                    12/00/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Margo Schulze-Haugen, Department of Commerce, National 
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver 
Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-0234
Fax: 301 713-1917
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AW65
_______________________________________________________________________




265. HALIBUT CHARTER VESSEL MORATORIUM

Legal Authority: 16 USC 773 to 773k

Abstract: This action would implement a moratorium on the entry of 
additional charter vessels into the guided sport fishery for Pacific 
halibut in waters of International Pacific Halibut Commission 
regulatory areas 2C (Southeast Alaska) and 3A (Central Gulf of Alaska). 
If approved, this moratorium would limit the number of charter vessels 
that may participate in the guided sport fishery for halibut in these 
areas. NMFS would issue a moratorium permit to a licensed charter 
vessel fishing business owner based on his or her past participation in 
the charter vessel fishery for halibut and to a Community Quota Entity 
representing specific rural communities. All moratorium permit holders 
would be subject to limits on the number of permits they could hold and 
on the number of charter vessel anglers who could catch and retain 
halibut on the permitted charter vessel. This action is proposed to 
achieve the halibut fishery management goals of the North Pacific 
Fishery Management Council. The intended effect is to curtail growth of 
fishing capacity in the guided sport fishery for halibut.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/21/09                    74 FR 18178
NPRM Comment Period End         06/05/09
Final Rule                      12/00/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AW92
_______________________________________________________________________




266. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES; 2009 NORTH AND SOUTH ATLANTIC 
COMMERCIAL QUOTAS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: This rule would establish the 2009 fishing season quotas for 
North and South Atlantic swordfish based on recent updated landings 
information and recommendations from the 2008 annual meeting of the 
International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas 
(ICCAT). This rule is necessary to ensure that current swordfish quotas 
account for underharvests and reserve transfer from the 2008 fishing 
year, consistent with regulations at 50 CFR part 635 and ICCAT 
recommendations that establish the U.S. North and South Atlantic 
swordfish allocations. This proposed rule may also include other minor 
regulatory clarifications.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/05/09                    74 FR 39032
NPRM Comment Period End         09/04/09
Final Rule                      12/00/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Margo Schulze-Haugen, Department of Commerce, National 
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver 
Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-0234
Fax: 301 713-1917
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AX07
_______________________________________________________________________




267. AMENDMENT 29 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR REEF FISH RESOURCES 
OF THE GULF OF MEXICO

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: Grouper and tilefish species in the Gulf of Mexico are 
managed

[[Page 64409]]

under the reef fish fishery management plan. Past management practices 
under the plan have contributed to overcapitalization in these 
fisheries, which the Council now seeks to address. The amendment 
creates an individual fishing quota (IFQ) program to further control 
effort in the commercial grouper and tilefish fisheries in the Gulf of 
Mexico. The IFQ program was supported by over 80% of all eligible 
fishermen voting in a referendum for the IFQ program. The proposed rule 
would implement the IFQ program, establish design elements for the 
program, and allow consolidation of commercial permit landings history 
through permit stacking.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/30/09                    74 FR 20134
NPRM Comment Period End         06/15/09
Final Action                    08/31/09                    74 FR 44732
Final Action Effective          09/30/09
Final Action--Correction        12/00/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AX39
_______________________________________________________________________




268. WESTERN AND CENTRAL PACIFIC FISHERIES FOR HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES; 
IMPLEMENTATION OF THE LONGLINE CATCH LIMITS ADOPTED AT THE FIFTH SESSION 
OF THE WESTERN AND CENTRAL PACIFIC FISHERIES COMMISSION

Legal Authority: 16 USC 6901 et seq

Abstract: This rule would implement the decisions adopted at the Fifth 
Session of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission 
(Commission) to reduce or otherwise control the fishing mortality rate 
from longline fishing of bigeye tuna and potentially other highly 
migratory fish species in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean. 
Pursuant to the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Convention 
Implementation Act, the Secretary of Commerce is authorized to 
implement regulations to carry out the obligations of the United States 
under the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Convention 
(Convention), including the implementation of Commission decisions. At 
its Fifth Regular Session, in December 2008, the Commission adopted 
specific catch limits in longline fisheries for certain highly 
migratory fish species in the Convention's area of application for 
2009, 2010, and 2011. This rule would fulfill the international 
obligations of the United States regarding these catch limits. 
Moreover, this rule could establish a framework for implementing future 
Commission decisions of a similar nature.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/08/09                    74 FR 32521
NPRM Comment Period End         08/07/09
Final Action                    12/00/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Dr. Charles Karnella, Pacific Islands Area Office, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Suite 1110, Honolulu, HI 
96814-4700
Phone: 808 973-2985
Fax: 808 973-2941
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AX59
_______________________________________________________________________




269.  SNAPPER-GROUPER FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN OF THE 
SOUTH ATLANTIC

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: On March 23, 2009, the South Atlantic Fishery Management 
Council requested NOAA Fisheries Service to implement a prohibition on 
the harvest of red snapper for 180 days to address overfishing of red 
snapper, through interim measures.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              07/06/09                    74 FR 31906
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      08/05/09
Final Action                    12/00/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AX75
_______________________________________________________________________




270.  AMENDMENT 10 TO THE ATLANTIC MACKEREL, SQUID, 
AND BUTTERFISH FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: The purpose of Amendment 10 is to: (1) Develop a rebuilding 
program that allows the butterfish stock to rebuild in the shortest 
amount of time possible (but not to exceed ten years) and permanently 
protects the long-term health and stability of the rebuilt stock; (2) 
minimize bycatch and the fishing mortality of unavoidable bycatch, to 
the extent practicable, in MSB fisheries; and (3) minimize the race to 
fish and promote efficient use of fishing capital in Loligo and Illex 
fisheries while providing a means for the industry to proactively 
engage in resource governance and to provide greater flexibility in 
developing management measures that fit localized needs through the 
development of sectors in the Loligo and Illex fisheries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice of Availability          07/13/09                    74 FR 40812
NPRM                            09/03/09                    74 FR 45597
NPRM Comment Period End         10/19/09
Final Action                    12/00/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AY00

[[Page 64410]]

_______________________________________________________________________




271. PROVIDE REGULATIONS FOR PERMITS FOR CAPTURE, TRANSPORT, IMPORT, AND 
EXPORT OF PROTECTED SPECIES FOR PUBLIC DISPLAY, AND FOR MAINTAINING A 
CAPTIVE MARINE MAMMAL INVENTORY

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1372(c)

Abstract: This rule will revise and simplify criteria and procedures 
specific to permits for taking, transporting, importing, and exporting 
protected species for public display and provide convenient formats for 
reporting marine mammal captive holdings and transports as required by 
amendments made in 1994 to the Marine Mammal Protection Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/03/01                    66 FR 35209
NPRM Comment Period Extended    08/22/01                    66 FR 44109
NPRM Comment Period End         09/04/01
Comment Period Extended         11/02/01
Final Action                    12/00/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Dr. Michael Payne, Fishery Biologist, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, P.O. Box 
21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7235
Fax: 301 713-2521
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AH26
_______________________________________________________________________




272.  TAKING OF MARINE MAMMALS INCIDENTAL TO SPECIFIED 
ACTIVITIES; TAKING MARINE MAMMALS INCIDENTAL TO TRAINING OPERATIONS 
CONDUCTED WITHIN THE GULF OF MEXICO RANGE COMPLEX

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

Abstract: NMFS has received requests from the U.S. Navy (Navy) for 
authorizations for the take of marine mammals incidental to training 
and operational activities conducted by the Navy's Atlantic Fleet 
within Gulf of Mexico (GOMEX) Range Complex for the period beginning 
December 3, 2009 and ending December 2, 2014. Pursuant to the 
implementing regulations of the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), 
NMFS is proposing regulations to govern that take and requesting 
information, suggestions, and comments on these proposed regulations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/14/09                    74 FR 33960
NPRM Comment Period End         08/13/09
Final Action                    01/00/10

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: James H. Lecky, Director, Office of Protected 
Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2332
Fax: 301 427-2520
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AX86
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Long-Term Actions


National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)



_______________________________________________________________________



NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE


                    ________________________________



273. FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR REGULATING OFFSHORE MARINE AQUACULTURE 
IN THE GULF OF MEXICO

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: The purpose of the amendment is to develop a regulatory 
permitting process for regulating and promoting environmentally sound 
and economically sustainable aquaculture in the Gulf Exclusive Economic 
Zone. Management actions include: (1) Types of aquaculture permits 
required; (2) duration aquaculture permits are effective; (3) 
conditions for permit issuance; (4) species allowed for aquaculture; 
(5) allowable aquaculture systems; (6) siting requirements and 
conditions; (7) restricted access zones for aquaculture facilities; (8) 
recordkeeping and reporting requirements; and (9) biological reference 
points and status determination criteria; and (10) framework procedures 
for modifying status determination criteria and regulatory measures.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice of Availability          06/04/09                    74 FR 26829
Notice of Availability Comment 
Period End                      08/03/09
NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AS65
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Completed Actions


National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)



_______________________________________________________________________




274. AMENDMENT 1 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE TILEFISH FISHERY

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: Amendment 1 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Tilefish 
Fishery would implement Individual Fishing Quotas in the tilefish 
fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice of Availability          05/04/09                    74 FR 20448
NPRM                            05/18/09                    74 FR 23147
NPRM Comment Period End         07/02/09
Notice of Availability Comment 
Period End                      07/06/09
Final Action                    08/24/09                    74 FR 42580

[[Page 64411]]

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AS25
_______________________________________________________________________




275. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES (HMS); REDUCING SEA TURTLE TAKES

Legal Authority: 16 USC 971; 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: This action would amend the regulations governing the 
Atlantic pelagic longline fishery based upon a June 1, 2004, Biological 
Opinion regarding Atlantic sea turtles. This amendment could include 
framework mechanisms that would allow the Agency to take action, such 
as partial or rolling closures or gear or effort restrictions, if the 
number of sea turtle interactions or mortalities exceed anticipated 
levels during a certain period of time. This action would not change 
established quotas for target species.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           08/12/04                    69 FR 49858
ANPRM Comment Period End        10/12/04
Withdrawn                       07/29/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 13362, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2334
Fax: 301 713-0596
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AS49
_______________________________________________________________________




276. AMENDMENT 10 TO THE ATLANTIC MACKEREL, SQUID, AND BUTTERFISH 
FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Duplicate of 0648-AY00          08/13/09

RIN: 0648-AT58
_______________________________________________________________________




277. AMERICAN LOBSTER DATA COLLECTION AND BROODSTOCK PROTECTION MEASURES

Legal Authority: 16 USC 5101 et seq

Abstract: NMFS is considering the implementation of management measures 
in the Federal lobster fishery, consistent with recommendations for 
Federal action as specified in the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries 
Commission's Interstate Fishery Management Plan for American Lobster. 
These proposed management measures include: 100 percent mandatory 
dealer reporting requirements for Federal lobster dealers; 
implementation of a maximum size limit (maximum carapace length 
restriction) in several Lobster Management Areas (LMA); and, revision 
to the definition of a V-notch for protection of egg-bearing female 
lobsters in several LMAs in the Federal American lobster fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           09/19/07                    72 FR 53978
ANPRM Comment Period End        10/22/07
NPRM                            10/06/08                    73 FR 58099
NPRM Comment Period End         11/20/08
Final Rule                      07/29/09                    74 FR 37530

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AV77
_______________________________________________________________________




278. AMENDMENT 7 TO THE SOUTH ATLANTIC SHRIMP FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: The South Atlantic Fishery Management Council is proposing to 
take action to maintain a viable rock shrimp fishery in the South 
Atlantic region. Actions in the amendment would: (1) Remove the 15,000-
pound landing requirement; (2) reinstate all endorsements lost due to 
not meeting the landing requirement in one of four consecutive calendar 
years; (3) reinstate limited access endorsements for vessel owners who 
renewed their open access permit in the year in which they failed to 
renew their limited access endorsement; (4) rename the limited access 
endorsement and the open access permit of the existing permit system to 
reduce confusion; and (5) require all South Atlantic shrimp permit 
holders to provide economic data if selected.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice of Availability          06/01/09                    74 FR 26170
NPRM                            06/24/09                    74 FR 30034
NPRM Comment Period End         07/24/09
Notice of Availability Comment 
Period End                      07/31/09
Final Action                    10/01/09                    74 FR 50699

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AW19
_______________________________________________________________________




279. FISHERIES OFF WEST COAST STATES; HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES FISHERIES

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: This action will establish the authority to collect permit 
fees under the Fishery Management Plan for U.S. West Coast Fisheries 
for Highly Migratory Species. This rule will amend the FMP regulations 
under 50 CFR 660.707 to establish a permit fee collection framework for 
HMS

[[Page 64412]]

commercial and recreational charter vessels operating off the West 
Coast. The action is consistent with and implements elements of the 
NMFS Permit Fee National Policy Directive 30-120.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/19/08                    73 FR 77589
NPRM Comment Period End         01/20/09
Final Action                    07/28/09                    74 FR 37177
Final Action Effective          08/27/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Mark Helvey, Assistant Regional Administrator for 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 501 West Ocean Boulevard, Long Beach, CA 
90802
Phone: 562 980-4040
Fax: 562 980-4047
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AW50
_______________________________________________________________________




280. FISHERIES IN THE WESTERN PACIFIC; COMPENSATION TO NORTHWESTERN 
HAWAIIAN ISLANDS BOTTOMFISH AND LOBSTER FISHERMEN DUE TO FISHERY CLOSURE 
IN THE PAPAHANAUMOKUAKEA MARINE NATIONAL MONUMENT

Legal Authority: PL 110-161

Abstract: The Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2008 authorizes the 
Secretary of Commerce to provide compensation to bottomfish and lobster 
fishery participants who will be displaced by the 2011 fishery closure 
resulting from the establishment by Presidential Proclamation of the 
Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument, Northwestern Hawaiian 
Islands. The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) (designee of the 
Secretary) is required to promulgate regulations to implement a 
voluntary capacity reduction program that: (1) Identifies eligible 
participants as those individuals holding Federal fishing permits for 
lobster or bottomfish in the designated waters within the monument; (2) 
provides a mechanism to compensate eligible participants for no more 
than the economic value of their permits; and (3) at the option of each 
eligible permit holder, provides an optional mechanism for additional 
compensation based on the value of the fishing vessel and gear of 
eligible participants who decide to receive these additional funds, 
provided that the vessels of such participants will not be used for 
fishing. For this purpose, $6,697,500 is authorized to be appropriated 
to the NMFS.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/07/09                    74 FR 15685
NPRM Comment Period End         05/04/09
Final Action                    09/15/09                    74 FR 47119

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 
96814
Phone: 808 944-2207
Fax: 808 973-2941
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AW52
_______________________________________________________________________




281. AMENDMENT 16 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE SNAPPER GROUPER 
FISHERY OF THE SOUTH ATLANTIC REGION

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: The need for action through Amendment 16 is to end 
overfishing of gag and vermilion snapper. Species in the fishery 
management unit are assessed on a routine basis and stock status may 
change as new information becomes available. In addition, changes in 
management regulations, fishing techniques, and social/economic 
structure can result in shifts in the percentage of harvest between 
user groups over time. These amendments to the regulations for gag and 
vermilion snapper would: implement measures to end overfishing of gag 
and vermilion snapper; allow the Regional Administrator to make 
adjustments to commercial and recreational management measures based on 
the reduction in harvest needed to achieve yield at Foy pending the 
outcome of a new benchmark assessment for vermillion snapper; specify 
the total allowable catch and define interim allocations for gag and 
vermilion snapper; update management reference points for gag and 
vermilion snapper; and reduce bycatch of snapper grouper species.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice of Availability          12/24/08                    73 FR 79037
NPRM                            02/06/09                     74 FR 6257
Notice of Availability Comment 
Period End                      02/23/09
NPRM Comment Period End         03/09/09
Final Action                    06/29/09                    74 FR 30964
Final Action Effective          07/29/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AW64
_______________________________________________________________________




282. AMENDMENT 27 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR BERING SEA/ALEUTIAN 
ISLANDS KING AND TANNER CRABS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: Amendment 27 to the Fishery Management Plan (FMP) would amend 
the FMP to allow processors to modify use caps that limit the amount of 
individual processor quota (IPQ) shares that may be used by persons 
processing crab. Specifically, Amendment 27 would allow persons holding 
IPQ shares to process their crab at processing facilities they do not 
own through contractual arrangements with the facility owners to have 
their crab custom processed at that facility. Any crab processed under 
such a custom processing arrangement would not be applied against the 
IPQ use cap of the facility owners. This action is intended to promote 
the goals and objectives of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation 
and Management Act, the FMP, and other applicable law.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/19/08                    73 FR 54346
NPRM Comment Period End         11/03/08
Final Rule                      05/28/09                    74 FR 25449
Final Action Effective          06/29/09

[[Page 64413]]

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AW73
_______________________________________________________________________




283. AMENDMENT 28 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR BERING SEA AND 
ALEUTIAN ISLANDS KING AND TANNER CRAB

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1862; PL 109-241; PL 109-479

Abstract: This action would implement Amendment 28 to the Fishery 
Management Plan for Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands King and Tanner 
Crabs to allow unlimited post-delivery transfers of shares to cover 
overages within the crab fishing year ending June 30. Under the crab 
rationalization program, harvesters receive annual allocations of 
individual fishing quota that provide an exclusive privilege to harvest 
a specific number of pounds of crab from a fishery. Any harvest in 
excess of an individual fishing quota allocation is a regulatory 
violation punishable by confiscation of crab or other penalties. 
Precisely estimating of catch at sea during the fishery is difficult 
and costly due to variation in size of crab, and sorting and 
measurement requirements. Overages can result from inadvertent mistakes 
by participants attempting to accurately estimate catch. A provision 
allowing for post-delivery transfer of individual fishing quota to 
cover overages could reduce the number of inadvertent violations, 
allowing for more complete harvest of allocations, and reduce 
enforcement costs without increasing the risk of overharvest of 
allocations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice of Availability          11/25/08                    73 FR 71598
NPRM                            12/12/08                    73 FR 75661
Notice of Availability Comment 
Period End                      12/25/08
NPRM Comment Period End         01/26/09
Final Action                    08/14/09                    74 FR 41092
Final Action Effective          09/14/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AW97
_______________________________________________________________________




284. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES (HMS); 2009 ATLANTIC BLUEFIN TUNA 
QUOTA SPECIFICATIONS AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES

Legal Authority: 16 USC 971 et seq; 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: This rule would set Atlantic bluefin tuna (BFT) quota 
specifications and seasonal management measures for the 2009 fishing 
year (January 1, 2009-December 31, 2009), and amend the BFT 
regulations. This action would implement the U.S. annual BFT quota as 
recommended by the International Commission for the Conservation of 
Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) and allocate that quota among the domestic 
fishing categories. The seasonal management measures would set daily 
retention limits and their duration for both the General and Angling 
categories. The annual specification process is set forth in current 
regulations implemented under the Consolidated Highly Migratory Species 
Fishery Management Plan. Other BFT regulatory amendments would be made 
within the framework procedures of the FMP.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/18/09                     74 FR 7577
NPRM Comment Period End         03/20/09
Final Rule                      06/01/09                    74 FR 26110
Correction                      06/17/09                    74 FR 28635


Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 13362, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2334
Fax: 301 713-0596
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AX12
_______________________________________________________________________




285. AMENDMENT 92 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR BERING SEA/ALEUTIAN 
ISLANDS GROUNDFISH AND AMENDMENT 82 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR 
GULF OF ALASKA GROUNDFISH

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: Amendments 92/82 would remove trawl gear endorsements on 
licenses issued under the license limitation program in specific 
management areas if those licenses have not been used on vessels that 
meet minimum recent landing requirements using trawl gear. This action 
would provide exemptions to this requirement for licenses that are used 
in trawl fisheries subject to quota-based management. This action would 
issue new area endorsements for trawl catcher vessels in the Aleutian 
Islands if minimum recent landing requirements in the Aleutian Islands 
were met. This action is intended to promote the goals and objectives 
of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, the 
FMPs, and other applicable law.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice of Availability of 
Fishery Management Plan         12/12/08                    73 FR 75659
NPRM                            12/30/08                    73 FR 79773
Notice of Availability Comment 
Period End                      02/10/09
NPRM Comment Period End         02/13/09
Final Action                    08/14/09                    74 FR 41080

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AX14

[[Page 64414]]

_______________________________________________________________________




286. ONE-FISH DAILY BAG LIMIT FOR THE GUIDED SPORT CHARTER VESSEL 
FISHERY FOR HALIBUT IN REGULATORY AREA 2C

Legal Authority: 16 USC 773 to 773K

Abstract: The regulatory action would implement a one-fish daily bag 
limit to reduce the charter halibut fishery harvest in Area 2C to the 
guideline harvest limit.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/22/08                    73 FR 78276
NPRM Comment Period End         01/21/09
Final Rule                      05/06/09                    74 FR 21194
Final Rule Effective            06/05/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AX17
_______________________________________________________________________




287. AMENDMENT 90 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR BERING SEA/ALEUTIAN 
ISLANDS GROUNDFISH AND AMENDMENT 78 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR 
GULF OF ALASKA GROUNDFISH

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: Amendments 90/78 would allow post-delivery transfers of 
cooperative quota to cover overages in the Amendment 80 Program and the 
Central Gulf of Alaska Rockfish Program. This action is necessary to 
mitigate potential overages, reduce enforcement costs, and provide for 
more precise total allowable catch management. This action is intended 
to promote the goals and objectives of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery 
Conservation and Management Act, the FMPs, and other applicable law.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/05/09                      74 FR 254
NPRM Comment Period End         02/19/09
Final Action                    08/21/09                    74 FR 42178
Final Action Effective          09/21/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: James Balsiger, Department of Commerce, National 
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 709 West Ninth Street, Juneau, 
AK 99801
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7465
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AX25
_______________________________________________________________________




288. AMENDMENT 85 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR GROUNDFISH OF THE 
GULF OF ALASKA

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801; 16 USC 3631; 16 USC 773; PL 108-199; PL 
109-479

Abstract: Amendment 85 to the FMP would remove a provision that 
restricts participation of Central Gulf of Alaska Rockfish Program 
catcher processors (CPs) in Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands (BSAI) 
groundfish fisheries. The participation restriction was developed to 
prevent rockfish program CPs from unfairly benefiting from their 
rockfish harvesting privileges by increasing effort in BSAI fisheries 
that remained subject to a race for fish. Since the implementation of 
the rockfish program, most BSAI groundfish target species have been 
allocated among participating sectors, and most CPs in the rockfish 
program received exclusive privileges for harvesting these BSAI 
species. Consequently, the July stand down may no longer be required as 
a protection measure for other BSAI participants and its removal would 
enable the rockfish program CPs to more efficiently manage their 
harvesting activities. This action is intended to promote the goals and 
objectives of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management 
Act, the FMP, and other applicable law.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice of Availabilty           03/24/09                    74 FR 12300
NPRM                            04/06/09                    74 FR 15420
Comment Period Extension        05/13/09                    74 FR 22507
NPRM Comment Period End         05/21/09
Notice of Availability Comment 
Period End                      05/26/09
Final Action                    11/03/09                    74 FR 56728
Final Rule Effective            12/04/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AX42
_______________________________________________________________________




289. 2009 ATLANTIC BLUEFISH SPECIFICATIONS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) and the 
Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission manage the Atlantic 
bluefish fishery jointly through the Atlantic Bluefish Fishery 
Management Plan (FMP). The FMP includes a specification process that 
requires the Council to recommend, on an annual basis, a total 
allowable catch (TAC) and total allowable landings (TAL) that are 
consistent with the stock rebuilding program. The TAL is composed of a 
commercial quota (allocated to the states from Maine to Florida in 
specified shares) and a coastwide recreational harvest limit. The 
Council may also specify a research set-aside (RSA) quota. The FMP also 
requires the Council to recommend annual fishing measures, such as 
possession limits, to assure that the recommended quotas will not be 
exceeded. The Council has submitted proposed specifications for the 
2009 Atlantic bluefish fishery. In summary, the specifications propose: 
(1) A TAC for bluefish of 34.081 million lb (an increase from 31.887 
million lb in 2008); (2) an overall TAL of 29.356 million lb (an 
increase from 28.156 million lb in 2008); (3) zero transfer from the 
recreational sector to the commercial sector, to achieve a commercial 
quota of 4.991 million lb (a reduction from 7.692 million lb in 2008) 
and a recreational harvest limit of 24.366 million lb (an increase from 
20.415 million lb in 2008); (4) an RSA quota of 97,750 lb (would 
further reduce quota and limit above); and (5) a recreational 
possession limit of 15 fish.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/02/09                     74 FR 9072

[[Page 64415]]

NPRM Comment Period End         03/17/09
Final Action                    05/04/09                    74 FR 20423
Final Action Effective          06/03/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AX49
_______________________________________________________________________




290. DEFINITION OF U.S. CITIZEN

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: The current definition of ``U.S. Citizen'' at 50 CFR 679.2 is 
critical for permits and licenses, some of which are intended to be 
issued only to, and held only by, persons who are U.S. citizens. The 
current definition for general applicability refers only to individual 
persons and lacks reference to non-individuals, such as corporations, 
partnerships, or associations. For consistency and to avoid confusion 
among permit applicants, NMFS proposes to revise the definition of U.S. 
Citizen.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM- 6-15-09 Withdraw AKR      06/15/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AX52
_______________________________________________________________________




291. 2009 SPECIFICATIONS AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES FOR THE SPINY DOGFISH 
FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: This action would set the 2009 fishing year annual quota and 
possession limit for the spiny dogfish fishery on the Atlantic coast of 
the U.S. consistent with the rebuilding program in the Spiny Dogfish 
Fishery Management Plan (FMP). The quota is divided semi-annually, with 
quota period 1 (May 1 through October 31) being allocated 57.9% of the 
annual quota, and quota period 2 (November 1 through April 30) being 
allocated 42.1%.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/19/09                    74 FR 11706
NPRM Comment Period End         04/03/09
Final Action                    05/01/09                    74 FR 20230

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Jamie Goen, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic 
and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle, WA 
98115
Phone: 206 526-4646
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AX57
_______________________________________________________________________




292. WESTERN AND CENTRAL PACIFIC FISHERIES FOR HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES; 
IMPLEMENTATION OF DECISIONS OF THE FIFTH SESSION OF THE WESTERN AND 
CENTRAL PACIFIC FISHERIES COMMISSION FOR PURSE SEINE FISHERIES

Legal Authority: 16 USC 6901 et seq

Abstract: This rule would implement the decisions adopted at the Fifth 
Session of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission 
(Commission) to reduce or otherwise control the fishing mortality rate 
of bigeye tuna and potentially other highly migratory fish species in 
the Western and Central Pacific Ocean from purse seine and other 
commercial fishing and to mitigate the impacts of fishing on non-target 
species such as turtles. Pursuant to the Western and Central Pacific 
Fisheries Convention Implementation Act, the Secretary of Commerce is 
authorized to implement regulations to carry out the obligations of the 
United States under the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries 
Convention (Convention), including the implementation of Commission 
decisions. At its Fifth Regular Session, in December 2008, the 
Commission adopted specific provisions for purse seine and other 
commercial fisheries that target highly migratory fish species in the 
Convention's area of application for 2009, 2010, and 2011. The U.S. 
implementation of these provisions could include (but is not limited 
to) the following: (1) time-area closures for fishing on fish 
aggregating devices; (2) requirements regarding observers on vessels; 
(3) closure of specific areas of high seas; (4) limits on fishing 
effort and/or catches; and (5) requirements aimed at reducing the 
capture, injury, and mortality of sea turtles.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/01/09                    74 FR 26160
NPRM Comment Period End         06/22/09
Final Action Effective          08/03/09
Final Rule                      08/04/09                    74 FR 38544

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Dr. Charles Karnella, Pacific Islands Area Office, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Suite 1110, Honolulu, HI 
96814-4700
Phone: 808 973-2985
Fax: 808 973-2941
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AX60
_______________________________________________________________________




293. 2009 SUMMER FLOUNDER, SCUP, AND BLACK SEA BASS RECREATIONAL 
MANAGEMENT MEASURES

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: This rulemaking will propose and implement recreational 
management measures for the summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass 
2009 recreational fisheries. The final rule will contain implementing 
regulations that specify the minimum fish size, possession limit, and 
fishing season for the three species.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/01/09                    74 FR 14760
NPRM Comment Period End         05/01/09
Final Action                    06/24/09                    74 FR 30002
Final Action Effective          07/24/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

[[Page 64416]]

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AX69
_______________________________________________________________________




294. REEF FISH AMENDMENT 30B TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE REEF 
FISH RESOURCES OF THE GULF OF MEXICO: MEASURE TO ESTABLISH THE EDGES 
SEASONAL-AREA CLOSURE

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: The proposed rule for Amendment 30B published on November 18, 
2008 (73 FR 68390) and Amendment 30B was approved on January 23, 2009. 
Unfortunately, the proposed rule contained an error relative to the 
``The Edges'' seasonal-area closure. Rather than just a 4-month closure 
to all Council managed fishing activity, as supported by Amendment 30B, 
the codified text would have also established a year-round prohibition 
on the position of reef fish species in the area. Therefore, this 
measure was removed from the final rule (RIN 0648-AV80) and a placed in 
this second rulemaking (RIN 0648-AX73) that would establish ``The 
Edges'' seasonal-area closure from January 1 through April 30 
consistent with the contents of Amendment 30B.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/17/09                    74 FR 17812
NPRM Comment Period End         05/04/09
Final Action                    06/24/09                    74 FR 30001
Final Action Effective          07/24/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AX73
_______________________________________________________________________




295.  ESTABLISH 2009 FISHERY SPECIFICATIONS FOR 
PACIFIC WHITING; PACIFIC GROUNDFISH FISHERY; BIENNIAL SPECIFICATIONS AND 
MANAGEMENT MEASURES

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801; 16 USC 7001

Abstract: This final rule establishes the 2009 fishery specifications 
for Pacific whiting in the U.S. exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and state 
waters off the coasts of Washington, Oregon, and California, as 
authorized by the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery Management Plan 
(FMP). These specifications include the level of the acceptable 
biological catch (ABC), optimum yield (OY), and allocations for the 
non-tribal commercial sectors.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/30/09
Final Specifications            05/05/09                    74 FR 20620

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Frank Lockhart, Program Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand 
Point Way NE., Seattle, WA 98115
Phone: 206 526-6142
Fax: 206 526-6736
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AX77
_______________________________________________________________________




296.  PACIFIC COAST GROUNDFISH INSEASON ACTION FOR MAY 
1, 2009

Legal Authority: 16 USC 773 et seq; 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: On March 6, 2009, NMFS published a final rule to implement 
the 2009-2010 West Coast groundfish harvest specifications and 
management measures (74 FR 9874). This action takes routine and 
frequent management action to modify harvest specifications and 
management measures to meet the mandates outlined by the Magnuson 
Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (Magnuson-Stevens Act).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Inseason Action                 04/27/09                    74 FR 19011

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Frank Lockhart, Program Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand 
Point Way NE., Seattle, WA 98115
Phone: 206 526-6142
Fax: 206 526-6736
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AX84
_______________________________________________________________________




297.  ESTABLISH A CONTROL DATE FOR THE REEF FISH, 
QUEEN CONCH, AND SPINY LOBSTER FISHERIES OF PUERTO RICO AND THE U.S. 
VIRGIN ISLANDS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: The Caribbean Fishery Management Council (Council) voted to 
establish a control date of March 24, 2009, for the commercial sector 
of the reef fish, queen conch, and spiny lobster fisheries of Puerto 
Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This action announces that anyone 
entering these fisheries after the control date will not be assured of 
future access should a management regime that limits the number of 
participants in the fisheries be prepared and implemented. The Council 
requested that the control date be published in the Federal Register to 
provide timely notice to the industry.
This action would inform participants in the U.S. Caribbean reef fish, 
queen conch, and spiny lobster fisheries of the Council's intentions to 
consider limiting access within the commercial sector of the U.S. 
Caribbean reef fish, queen conch, and spiny lobster fisheries. 
Specifically, the Council may consider requiring a permit to limit 
fishing in the exclusive economic zone to participants that have catch 
histories in excess of some minimum landings threshold or who possess a 
valid Territorial/Commonwealth Permit. Should the Council take future 
action to restrict participation in the commercial sector of the U.S. 
Caribbean reef fish, queen conch, or spiny lobster fisheries, it 
intends to use March 24, 2009, as a possible control date regarding the 
eligibility of catch histories. This date was announced at the 
Council?s March 2009 meeting.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/08/09                    74 FR 32528
Comment Period End              08/07/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

[[Page 64417]]

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AX92
_______________________________________________________________________




298. ATLANTIC PELAGIC LONGLINE TAKE REDUCTION PLAN

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

Abstract: With this action, the National Marine Fisheries Service 
implements the Atlantic Pelagic Longline Take Reduction Plan in order 
to reduce serious injuries and mortalities of long-finned pilot whales, 
short-finned pilot whales, and Risso's dolphins in the Atlantic pelagic 
longline fishery to insignificant levels approaching a zero mortality 
and serious injury rate, within five years of its implementation. The 
proposed plan is based on consensus recommendations and the draft plan 
was by the Atlantic Pelagic Longline Take Reduction Team (Team) and 
includes both regulatory and non-regulatory measures. Regulatory 
measures include: (1) Limiting the mainline length to 20 nautical miles 
or less within the Mid-Atlantic Bight; (2) designating a special 
research area offshore of Cape Hatteras, NC; and (3) requiring all 
pelagic longline vessels to post an informational placards on careful 
handling and release of marine mammals in the wheelhouse and working 
decks of the vessel. Non-regulatory measures of the plan include: (1) 
Providing for 12-15 percent observer coverage throughout all Atlantic 
pelagic longline fisheries that interact with pilot whales or Risso's 
dolphins; (2) encouraging vessel operators throughout the fishery to 
maintain daily communications with other local vessel captains; (3) 
updating guidelines for careful handling and release of entangled or 
hooked marine mammals; and (4) distributing quarterly reports of 
bycatch of marine mammals in the pelagic longline fishery to the Team.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/24/08                    73 FR 35623
NPRM Comment Period End         09/22/08
Final Action                    05/19/09                    74 FR 23349
Final Rule Effective            06/18/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Kristy Long, Fisheries Biologist, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-
West Highway, Room 13738, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2322
Fax: 301 427-2522
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AV65
_______________________________________________________________________




299. DESIGNATION OF CRITICAL HABITAT FOR THE ENDANGERED U.S. DISTINCT 
POPULATION SEGMENT (DPS) OF GUIDED SMALLTOOTH SAWFISH

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq

Abstract: This action would designate critical habitat for the U.S. DPS 
of smalltooth sawfish, which was listed as endangered on April 1, 2003. 
The designation would be located in Florida, within the current 
geographic range of the species. Comments from the public on the 
proposal, including information on the economic impacts, national 
security, and other relevant documents, as well as the benefits to the 
species from the designation will be solicited during a 60-day comment 
period. A draft economic analysis and section 4(b)(2) report will be 
conducted in support of this proposed rule.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/20/08                    73 FR 70290
Notice                          12/09/08                    73 FR 74681
NPRM Comment Period End         01/20/09
Reopen Comment Period           03/13/09
Final Action                    09/02/09                    74 FR 45353
Final Action Effective          10/02/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Shelley L. Norton, Smalltooth Sawfish and Johnson's 
Seagrass Coordinator, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 253 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 
33701
Phone: 727 551-5781
Fax: 727 524-5309
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AV74
_______________________________________________________________________




300. HARBOR PORPOISE TAKE REDUCTION PLAN REGULATIONS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service is preparing a proposed 
rule to reduce the number of harbor porpoise taken in sink gillnet 
fisheries in the Gulf of Maine and Mid-Atlantic. The Harbor Porpoise 
Take Reduction Plan of 1999 implemented measures to reduce the 
incidental capture of harbor porpoises in sink gillnets to below the 
stock's Potential Biological Removal level (PBR). Measures included: 
management areas in which deterrent devices (pingers) are required on 
gillnets; gear modifications; and seasonal closures. Between 2001 and 
2005, incidental takes of harbor porpoise showed an increasing trend, 
and currently takes exceed PBR. The proposed rule will implement 
measures developed through discussions with the Harbor Porpoise Take 
Reduction Team, which was reconvened in 2007 when it was clear that 
existing measures were not sufficient to keep porpoise bycatch to below 
PBR. For the Gulf of Maine, this action would expand pinger use in 
Massachusetts Bay to include November; establish Stellwagen Bank 
Management Area, requiring pingers from November-May; establish Coastal 
Gulf of Maine Consequence Closure Area and require closure in October 
and November only if, after the most current two years, the average 
bycatch rate exceeds the trigger rate of .031, identified from observed 
compliant boats from the Mid-Coast, Massachusetts Bay, and Stellwagen 
Bank Management Areas; create Southern New England Management Area 
(includes current Cape Cod South Management Area); require pingers from 
December-May; establish Cape Cod South Expansion and Eastern Cape Cod 
Consequence Closure Areas; and require closure from February-April only 
if, after the most current two years, the average bycatch rate exceeds 
the trigger rate of 0.023, identified from observed compliant vessels 
fishing in the Southern New England Management Area. For the Mid 
Atlantic, this action would establish Mudhole South Management Area. 
Close from February 1-March 15; and modify the tie-down requirement.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/21/09                    74 FR 36058

[[Page 64418]]

NPRM Comment Period End         08/20/09
Correction Final Action         08/10/09                    74 FR 39910

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Melissa Andersen, Department of Commerce, National 
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver 
Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2322
Fax: 301 713-2521
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AW51
_______________________________________________________________________




301. RULEMAKING TO DESIGNATE CRITICAL HABITAT FOR THE GULF OF MAINE 
DISTINCT POPULATION SEGMENT OF ATLANTIC SALMON

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq

Abstract: Under section 4 of the Endangered Species Act (ESA), the 
Secretary of Commerce (Secretary) shall designate critical habitat for 
species listed as threatened or endangered. This rulemaking would 
designate critical habitat in 45 specific areas occupied by Atlantic 
salmon at the time of listing that comprise approximately 19,571 km of 
perennial river, stream, and estuary habitat and 800 square km of lake 
habitat within the range of the Gulf of Maine's distinct population 
segment and on which are found those physical and biological features 
essential to the conservation of the species.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/05/08                    73 FR 51747
NPRM Comment Period End         11/04/08
Final Action                    08/10/09                    74 FR 39903

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Marta Nammack, Office of Protected Resources, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-1401
Fax: 301 427-2523
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AW77
_______________________________________________________________________




302. RULEMAKING TO DESIGNATE CRITICAL HABITAT FOR THE THREATENED 
SOUTHERN DISTINCT POPULATION SEGMENT OF NORTH AMERICAN GREEN STURGEON

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq

Abstract: Under section 4 of the Endangered Species Act (ESA), the 
Secretary of Commerce (Secretary) shall designate critical habitat for 
species listed as threatened or endangered. This rulemaking would 
designate critical habitat for the threatened Southern Distinct 
Population Segment of North American green sturgeon (Southern DPS), 
including: the Sacramento River, lower Feather River, and lower Yuba 
River in California; the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta and Suisun, San 
Pablo, and San Francisco Bays in California; certain coastal bays and 
estuaries in California, Oregon, and Washington; and coastal marine 
waters within 110 m depth off California, Oregon, and Washington. A 
draft economic analysis, biological report, and ESA section 4(b)(2) 
analysis report in support of the proposed rulemaking will be available 
for public review and comment.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/08/08                    73 FR 52084
Notice                          10/07/08                    73 FR 58527
NPRM Comment Period End         11/07/08
Final Rule                      10/09/09                    74 FR 52300
Final Action Effective          11/09/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: James H. Lecky, Director, Office of Protected 
Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2332
Fax: 301 427-2520
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AX04
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Long-Term Actions


Patent and Trademark Office (PTO)



_______________________________________________________________________




303. EXAMINATION OF PATENT APPLICATIONS THAT INCLUDE CLAIMS CONTAINING 
ALTERNATIVE LANGUAGE

Legal Authority: 35 USC 2(b)(2)

Abstract: The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (Office) is considering 
revising the rules of practice to address Markush-type and other claims 
written so as to claim an invention in the alternative. The search and 
examination of Markush-type and other claims written in the alternative 
generally consume a disproportionate amount of Office resources as 
compared to other types of claims, because these claims can encompass 
multiple independent and distinct inventions and determining the 
patentability of such a claim may require a separate examination of 
each of the alternatives within the claim. The Office anticipates that 
requiring applicants who choose this claim-drafting format to ensure a 
certain degree of relatedness among the members of a Markush group or 
the alternatives presented in the claims will allow the Office to do a 
better, more thorough and reliable examination of Markush-type and 
other claims written in the alternative.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/10/07                    72 FR 44992
NPRM Comment Period End         10/09/07
IRFA Comment Request            03/10/08                    73 FR 12679
NPRM Comment Period End         04/09/08


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr
Phone: 571 272-8800
Fax: 571 273-0125
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AC00

[[Page 64419]]

_______________________________________________________________________




304. FISCAL YEAR 2009 REVISION OF REQUEST FOR CONTINUED EXAMINATION, 18-
MONTH PUBLICATION, AND OTHER MISCELLANEOUS COST-RECOVERY PATENT FEES

Legal Authority: 35 USC 2(b)(2); 35 USC 41(d); 35 USC 132(b)

Abstract: The USPTO is taking this action to revise the rules of 
practice to adjust the fee or set a fee for certain processes and 
services for which the USPTO is required to set a cost-recovery fee. 
The USPTO is specifically adjusting the fee for a request for continued 
examination, eighteen-month publication, and a certificate of 
correction (applicant's mistake) fee, and set a fee for requesting a 
corrected republication of a patent application publication. The rules 
of practice currently do not set a fee, or do not set a fee that 
recovers the USPTO?s costs, for these processes or services. The USPTO 
is adjusting or setting these fee amounts such that they more 
accurately reflect the Office costs for these processes or services.

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr
Phone: 571 272-8800
Fax: 571 273-0125
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AC29
[FR Doc. E9-28588 Filed 12-04-09; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3510-12-S