[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 163 (Thursday, August 24, 2017)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 40247-40260]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2017-16888]
[[Page 40247]]
Vol. 82
Thursday,
No. 163
August 24, 2017
Part IV
Department of Commerce
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Semiannual Regulatory Agenda
Federal Register / Vol. 82 , No. 163 / Thursday, August 24, 2017 /
Unified Agenda
[[Page 40248]]
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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
Spring 2017 Semiannual Agenda of Regulations
AGENCY: Office of the Secretary, Commerce.
ACTION: Semiannual regulatory agenda.
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SUMMARY: In compliance with Executive Order 12866, entitled
``Regulatory Planning and Review,'' and the Regulatory Flexibility Act,
as amended, the Department of Commerce (Commerce), 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 fall 2016 agenda. The purpose of the Agenda is to provide
information to the public on regulations that are currently under
review, being proposed, or issued by Commerce. The agenda is intended
to facilitate comments and views by interested members of the public.
Commerce's spring 2017 regulatory agenda includes regulatory
activities that are expected to be conducted during the period April 1,
2017, through March 31, 2018.
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 Asha Mathew, Chief Counsel for Regulation, Office
of the Assistant General Counsel for Legislation and Regulation, U.S.
Department of Commerce, Washington, DC 20230, telephone: 202-482-3151.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Commerce hereby publishes its spring 2017
Unified Agenda of Federal Regulatory and Deregulatory Actions pursuant
to Executive Order 12866 and the Regulatory Flexibility Act, 5 U.S.C.
601 et seq. Executive Order 12866 requires agencies to publish an
agenda of those regulations that are under consideration pursuant to
this order. By memorandum of March 2, 2017, the Office of Management
and Budget issued guidelines and procedures for the preparation and
publication of the spring 2017 Unified Agenda. The Regulatory
Flexibility Act 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, and a list
that identifies those entries that have been selected for periodic
review under section 610 of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
In addition, beginning with the fall 2007 edition, the Internet
became the basic means for disseminating the Unified Agenda. The
complete Unified Agenda is 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, 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.
Within Commerce, the Office of the Secretary and various operating
units may issue regulations. Among these operating units, the National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the Bureau of Industry
and Security, and the Patent and Trademark Office issue the greatest
share of Commerce'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 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.) (the Act) governs the management of fisheries
within the Exclusive Economic Zone of the United States (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. For
fisheries that require conservation and management measures, eight
Regional Fishery Management Councils (Councils) prepare Fishery
Management Plans (FMPs) for the fisheries within their respective
areas. 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. In the
development of FMPs, or amendments to FMPs, 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 significance and timing of some
regulatory actions under consideration by the Councils at the time the
semiannual regulatory agenda is published.
Commerce's spring 2017 regulatory agenda follows.
Michelle O. McClelland,
Performing the Delegated Duties of the General Counsel.
[[Page 40249]]
Bureau of the Census--Completed Actions
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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17........................ Foreign Trade Regulations: 0607-AA55
Clarification on Filing
Requirements.
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International Trade Administration--Proposed Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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18........................ Covered Merchandise 0625-AB10
Referrals From the
Customs Service.
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National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Proposed Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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19........................ Comprehensive Fishery 0648-BD32
Management Plan for
Puerto Rico.
20........................ Comprehensive Fishery 0648-BD33
Management Plan for St.
Croix.
21........................ Comprehensive Fishery 0648-BD34
Management Plan for St.
Thomas/St. John.
22........................ Omnibus Acceptable 0648-BE65
Biological Catch
Framework Adjustment.
23........................ Modification of the 0648-BE77
Temperature-Dependent
Component of the Pacific
Sardine Harvest Guideline
Control Rule to
Incorporate New
Scientific Information.
24........................ Fishing Capacity 0648-BF01
Reductions for Lobster
Management Areas 2 and 3.
25........................ International Fisheries; 0648-BF41
Western and Central
Pacific Fisheries for
Highly Migratory Species;
Treatment of U.S. Purse
Seine Fishing With
Respect to U.S.
Territories.
26........................ Omnibus Essential Fish 0648-BF82
Habitat Amendment 2.
27........................ Voting Criteria for a 0648-BG36
Referendum on a Gulf of
Mexico Reef Fish Catch
Share Program for For-
Hire Vessels With
Landings Histories.
28........................ Unmanaged Forage Fish 0648-BG42
Omnibus Amendment.
29........................ Amendment 114 for 0648-BG54
Groundfish of the Bering
Sea/Aleutian Islands
Management Area and
Amendment 104 for
Groundfish of the Gulf of
Alaska; Electronic
Monitoring.
30........................ 2017 Summer Flounder and 0648-BG68
Scup Recreational Harvest
Measures.
31........................ Designate Critical Habitat 0648-BC45
for the Hawaiian Insular
False Killer Whale
Distinct Population
Segment.
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National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Final Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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32........................ Pacific Coast Groundfish 0648-BE90
Fishing Capacity
Reduction Loan Refinance.
33........................ Pacific Coast Groundfish 0648-BF12
Trawl Rationalization
Program; Widow Rockfish
Reallocation in the
Individual Fishing Quota
Fishery.
34........................ Amendment 18 to the 0648-BF26
Northeast Multispecies
Fishery Management Plan.
35........................ Amendment 43 to the 0648-BG18
Fishery Management Plan
for the Reef Fish
Resources of the Gulf of
Mexico.
36........................ Protected Species Hard 0648-BG23
Caps for the California/
Oregon Large-Mesh Drift
Gillnet Fishery.
37........................ Reducing Disturbances to 0648-AU02
Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins
From Human Interactions.
38........................ Designation of Critical 0648-BF28
Habitat for the Gulf of
Maine, New York Bight,
and Chesapeake Bay
Distinct Population
Segments of Atlantic
Sturgeon.
39........................ Regulation to Reduce 0648-BG45
Incidental Bycatch and
Mortality of Sea Turtles
in the Southeastern U.S.
Shrimp Fisheries.
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National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Long-Term Actions
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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40........................ Amendment 39 to the 0648-BD25
Fishery Management Plan
for the Reef Fish
Resources of the Gulf of
Mexico.
41........................ Implementation of a 0648-BD59
Program for
Transshipments by Large
Scale Fishing Vessels in
the Eastern Pacific Ocean.
42........................ Designation of Critical 0648-BC56
Habitat for the Arctic
Ringed Seal.
43........................ Mallows Bay-Potomac River 0648-BG02
National Marine Sanctuary
Designation.
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National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Completed Actions
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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44........................ Capital Construction Fund; 0648-AW57
Fishing Vessel Capital
Construction Fund
Procedures.
45........................ Amendment 5b to the Highly 0648-BD22
Migratory Species Fishery
Management Plan.
[[Page 40250]]
46........................ Regulatory Amendment 16 to 0648-BD78
the Fishery Management
Plan for the Snapper-
Grouper Fishery of the
South Atlantic Region.
47........................ Magnuson-Stevens Fisheries 0648-BF09
Conservation and
Management Act; Seafood
Import Monitoring Program.
48........................ Allow the Use of Longline 0648-BF42
Pot Gear in the Gulf of
Alaska Sablefish
Individual Fishing Quota
Fishery.
49........................ Atlantic Highly Migratory 0648-BF49
Species; Atlantic
Blacknose Shark
Commercial Retention
Limit.
50........................ Amendment 113 to the FMP 0648-BF54
for Groundfish of the
BSAI to Establish a
Catcher Vessel Fishing
Period and Shoreside
Processing Delivery
Requirements for Aleutian
Islands Pacific Cod.
51........................ Specification of 0648-BF64
Management Measures for
Atlantic Herring for the
2016-2018 Fishing Years.
52........................ Amendment 19 to the 0648-BF72
Atlantic Sea Scallop
Fishery Management Plan.
53........................ Observer Coverage 0648-BF80
Requirements for Catcher
Vessels Using Trawl Gear
in the Bering Sea and
Aleutian Islands
Management Area.
54........................ Framework Amendment 1 to 0648-BF81
the Dolphin and Wahoo
Fishery Management Plan
of the Atlantic.
55........................ Amendment 103 to the 0648-BF84
Fishery Management Plan
for Groundfish of the
Gulf of Alaska to
Reapportion Chinook
Salmon Prohibited Catch
in the Gulf of Alaska
Trawl Fisheries.
56........................ Framework Action to Adjust 0648-BG12
the Red Grouper Allowable
Harvest in the Gulf of
Mexico.
57........................ Amendment 45 to the 0648-BG19
Fishery Management Plan
for the Reef Fish
Resources of the Gulf of
Mexico.
58........................ Framework Adjustment 28 to 0648-BG46
the Atlantic Sea Scallop
Fishery Management Plan.
59........................ Designation of Critical 0648-BF32
Habitat for the Carolina
and South Atlantic
Distinct Population
Segments of Atlantic
Sturgeon.
60........................ Endangered and Threatened 0648-BG20
Species; Critical Habitat
for the Threatened
Caribbean Corals.
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DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)
Bureau of the Census (CENSUS)
Completed Actions
17. Foreign Trade Regulations: Clarification on Filing Requirements
Legal Authority: 13 U.S.C. 301
Abstract: The Census Bureau issues this Final Rule amending the
Foreign Trade Regulations (FTR) to reflect new export reporting
requirements. Specifically, the Census Bureau is making changes related
to the implementation of the International Trade Data System (ITDS), in
accordance with the Executive Order 13659, Streamlining the Export/
Import Process for American Businesses. The ITDS was established by the
Security and Accountability for Every (SAFE) Port Act of 2006. The
changes also include the addition of the original Internal Transaction
Number (ITN) data element in the Automated Export System (AES). Lastly,
the Census Bureau is making remedial changes to improve clarity of the
reporting requirements.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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NPRM................................ 03/09/16 81 FR 12423
NPRM Comment Period End............. 05/09/16
Final Rule.......................... 04/19/17 82 FR 18383
Final Rule Effective................ 07/18/17
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Dale Kelly, Department of Commerce, Bureau of the
Census, 4700 Silver Hill Road, Room 6K1285, Suitland, MD 20233, Phone:
301 763-6937, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0607-AA55
DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)
International Trade Administration (ITA)
Proposed Rule Stage
18. Covered Merchandise Referrals From the Customs Service
Legal Authority: Pub. L. 114-125, sec 421
Abstract: The Department of Commerce (the Department) is proposing
to amend its regulations to set forth procedures to address covered
merchandise referrals from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP or
the Customs Service).
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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NPRM................................ 08/00/17
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Emily Beline, Department of Commerce, International
Trade Administration, 1401 Constitution Avenue NW., Washington, DC
20230, Phone: 202 482-1096, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0625-AB10
DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
Proposed Rule Stage
National Marine Fisheries Service
19. Comprehensive Fishery Management Plan for Puerto Rico
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
Abstract: This comprehensive Puerto Rico Fishery Management Plan
will incorporate, and modify as needed, federal fisheries management
measures presently included in each of the existing species-based U.S.
Caribbean Fishery Management Plans (Spiny Lobster, Reef Fish, Coral,
and Queen Conch Fishery Management Plans) as those measures pertain to
Puerto Rico exclusive economic zone waters. The goal of this action is
to create a Fishery Management Plan tailored to the specific fishery
management needs of Puerto Rico. If approved, this new Puerto Rico
Fishery Management Plan, in conjunction with similar comprehensive
Fishery Management Plans being developed for St. Croix and St. Thomas/
St. John, will replace the Spiny Lobster, Reef Fish, Coral and Queen
Conch Fishery Management Plans presently governing the commercial and
recreational harvest in U.S. Caribbean exclusive economic zone waters.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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NPRM................................ 04/00/18
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
[[Page 40251]]
Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast
Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone:
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0648-BD32
20. Comprehensive Fishery Management Plan for St. Croix
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
Abstract: This comprehensive St. Croix Fishery Management Plan will
incorporate, and modify as needed, federal fisheries management
measures presently included in each of the existing species-based U.S.
Caribbean Fishery Management Plans (Spiny Lobster, Reef Fish, Coral,
and Queen Conch Fishery Management Plans) as those measures pertain to
St. Croix exclusive economic zone waters. The goal of this action is to
create a Fishery Management Plan tailored to the specific fishery
management needs of St. Croix. If approved, this new St. Croix Fishery
Management Plan, in conjunction with similar comprehensive Fishery
Management Plans being developed for Puerto Rico and St. Thomas/St.
John, will replace the Spiny Lobster, Reef Fish, Coral and Queen Conch
Fishery Management Plans presently governing the commercial and
recreational harvest in U.S. Caribbean exclusive economic zone waters.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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NPRM................................ 04/00/18
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast
Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone:
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0648-BD33
21. Comprehensive Fishery Management Plan for St. Thomas/St. John
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
Abstract: This comprehensive St. Thomas/St. John Fishery Management
Plan will incorporate, and modify as needed, federal fisheries
management measures presently included in each of the existing species-
based U.S. Caribbean Fishery Management Plans (Spiny Lobster, Reef
Fish, Coral, and Queen Conch Fishery Management Plans) as those
measures pertain to St. Thomas/St. John exclusive economic zone waters.
The goal of this action is to create a Fishery Management Plan tailored
to the specific fishery management needs of St. Thomas/St. John. If
approved, this new St. Thomas/St. John Fishery Management Plan, in
conjunction with similar comprehensive Fishery Management Plans being
developed for St. Croix and Puerto Rico, will replace the Spiny
Lobster, Reef Fish, Coral and Queen Conch Fishery Management Plans
presently governing the commercial and recreational harvest in U.S.
Caribbean exclusive economic zone waters.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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NPRM................................ 04/00/18
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast
Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone:
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0648-BD34
22. Omnibus Acceptable Biological Catch Framework Adjustment
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
Abstract: This action would make two administrative adjustments to
the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council's (Council) Omnibus Annual
Catch Limit Amendment: (1) Adjust the Council's risk policy so that the
Scientific and Statistical Committee may apply an average probability
of overfishing when recommending multi-year Acceptable Biological
Catches; and (2) make all of the Council's fishery management plans
consistent in allowing new status determination criteria (overfishing
definitions, etc.) to be accepted as the best available scientific
information.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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NPRM................................ 06/00/17
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Regional Administrator, Greater
Atlantic Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA
01930, Phone: 978 281-9287, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0648-BE65
23. Modification of the Temperature-Dependent Component of the Pacific
Sardine Harvest Guideline Control Rule To Incorporate New Scientific
Information
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
Abstract: Pursuant to a recommendation of the Pacific Fishery
Management Council (Council) under the Magnuson-Stevens Act, the
National Marine Fisheries Service is proposing to use a new temperature
index to calculate the temperature parameter of the Pacific sardine
harvest guideline control rule under the Fishery Management Plan. The
harvest guideline control rule, in conjunction with the overfishing
limit and acceptable biological catch control rules, is used to set
annual harvest levels for Pacific sardine. The temperature parameter is
calculated annually. The National Marine Fisheries Service determined
that a new temperature index is more statistically sound and this
action will adopt that index. This action also will revise the upper
temperature limit to allow for additional sardine harvest where prior
guidelines set catch unnecessarily low.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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NPRM................................ 06/00/17
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Barry Thom, Regional Administrator, West Coast
Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 1201 NE. Lloyd Boulevard, Suite 1100, Portland, OR
97232, Phone: 503 231-6266, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0648-BE77
24. Fishing Capacity Reductions for Lobster Management Areas 2 and 3
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 5101 et seq.
Abstract: This action proposes several reductions in fishing
capacity for Lobster Management Areas 2 and 3. The proposed measures
include: Caps on the number of traps that can be actively fished; caps
on the number of traps associated with a permit (i.e., allowing trap
banking); and caps on the number of traps or permits issued to a given
owner. This action is intended to assist in rebuilding the Southern New
England lobster stock.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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NPRM................................ 12/00/17
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[[Page 40252]]
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Regional Administrator, Greater
Atlantic Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA
01930, Phone: 978 281-9287, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0648-BF01
25. International Fisheries; Western and Central Pacific Fisheries for
Highly Migratory Species; Treatment of U.S. Purse Seine Fishing With
Respect to U.S. Territories
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 6901 et seq.
Abstract: This action would establish rules and/or procedures to
address the treatment of U.S.-flagged purse seine vessels and their
fishing activities in regulations issued by the National Marine
Fisheries Service that implement decisions of the Commission for the
Conservation and Management of Highly Migratory Fish Stocks in the
Western and Central Pacific Ocean (Commission), of which the United
States is a member. Under the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries
Convention Implementation Act, the National Marine Fisheries Service
exercises broad discretion when determining how it implements
Commission decisions, such as purse seine fishing restrictions. The
National Marine Fisheries Service intends to examine the potential
impacts of the domestic implementation of Commission decisions, such as
purse seine fishing restrictions, on the economies of the U.S.
territories that participate in the Commission, and examine the
connectivity between the activities of U.S.-flagged purse seine fishing
vessels and the economies of the territories. Based on that and other
information, the National Marine Fisheries Service might propose
regulations that mitigate adverse economic impacts of purse seine
fishing restrictions on the U.S. territories and/or that, in the
context of the Convention on the Conservation and Management of Highly
Migratory Fish Stocks in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean
(Convention), recognize that one or more of the U.S. territories have
their own purse seine fisheries that are distinct from the purse seine
fishery of the United States and that are consequently subject to
special provisions of the Convention and of Commission decisions.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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ANPRM............................... 10/23/15 80 FR 64382
ANPRM Comment Period End............ 11/23/15
NPRM................................ 06/00/17
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Michael Tosatto, Regional Administrator, Pacific
Islands Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration, 1845 Wasp Boulevard, Building 176,
Honolulu, HI 96818, Phone: 808 725-5000, Email:
[email protected].
RIN: 0648-BF41
26. Omnibus Essential Fish Habitat Amendment 2
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
Abstract: The New England Fishery Management Council voted to issue
this update rulemaking that would revise the essential fish habitat and
habitat areas of particular concern designation based on recent
groundfish data. This rule would update groundfish seasonal spawning
closures and identify Habitat Research Areas. The proposed revisions
include adding a habitat management area in the eastern Gulf of Maine
and modifying the existing habitat management areas in the central and
western Gulf of Maine, while maintaining additional protections for
large-mesh groundfish, including cod. In addition, the amendment would
allow for the potential for development of a scallop access area within
Georges Bank. A habitat management area would be established on Georges
Shoal, with allowances for the clam dredge fishery. In Southern New
England, a habitat management area in the Great South Channel would
replace the current habitat protections further west. These revisions
are intended to comply with the Magnuson-Stevens Act requirement to
minimize to the extent practicable the adverse effects of fishing on
essential fish habitat.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 06/00/17
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Regional Administrator, Greater
Atlantic Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA
01930, Phone: 978 281-9287, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0648-BF82
27. Voting Criteria for a Referendum on a Gulf of Mexico Reef
Fish Catch Share Program for For-Hire Vessels With Landings Histories
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
Abstract: Amendment 42 to the Fishery Management Plan for Reef Fish
Resources in the Gulf of Mexico (Amendment 42) proposes to establish a
catch share program for up to five species of reef fish for headboats
with landings history in the Southeast Region Headboat Survey. This
rule would inform the public of the procedures, schedule, and
eligibility requirements that NOAA Fisheries would use in conducting
the referendum that is required before the Gulf of Mexico Fishery
Management Council (Council) can submit Amendment 42 for Secretarial
review.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 08/00/17
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast
Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone:
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0648-BG36
28. Unmanaged Forage Fish Omnibus Amendment
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
Abstract: This amendment was initiated to prohibit the development
of new--and expansion of existing--commercial and recreational
fisheries in mid-Atlantic Federal waters that would exploit unmanaged
forage fish species. This action would add unmanaged forage species as
Ecosystem Component species to the relevant Mid-Atlantic Council
fishery management plans. The Forage Amendment would establish: The
list of forage species managed as Ecosystem Component species in the
Mid-Atlantic region; Management measures for all forage Ecosystem
Component species, except chub mackerel; Management measures for chub
mackerel; a mechanism for establishing new fisheries or expansion of
existing fisheries for Ecosystem Component species; and Administrative
provisions for managing Ecosystem Component species (list of fisheries
and fishing gear; permit requirement; monitoring; management unit; and
framework measures).
Timetable:
[[Page 40253]]
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Action Date FR Cite
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Notice of Availability.............. 03/28/17 82 FR 15311
NPRM................................ 06/00/17
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Regional Administrator, Greater
Atlantic Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA
01930, Phone: 978 281-9287, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0648-BG42
29. Amendment 114 for Groundfish of the Bering Sea/Aleutian
Islands Management Area and Amendment 104 for Groundfish of the Gulf of
Alaska; Electronic Monitoring
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
Abstract: This regulation would make substantive improvements to
the North Pacific Observer Program by giving certain vessels a choice
to use electronic monitoring instead of observers for collecting
fishery data. The North Pacific Fishery Management Council proposes to
amend its fisheries research plan for the fixed gear groundfish and
halibut fisheries of the Gulf of Alaska and Bering Sea and Aleutian
Islands. The Council's fisheries research plan is implemented by the
North Pacific Observer Program at the NMFS Alaska Fisheries Science
Center, and its purpose is to collect data necessary for the
conservation, management, and scientific understanding of the
groundfish and halibut fisheries off Alaska. This action would allow an
electronic monitoring system, which consists of a control center to
manage the data collection, onboard vessels to monitor the harvest and
discard of fish and other incidental catch at sea, as a supplement to
existing human observer coverage.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice of Availability.............. 03/10/17 82 FR 13302
NPRM................................ 03/23/17 82 FR 14853
NPRM Comment Period End............. 05/22/17
Final Action........................ 09/00/17
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: James Balsiger, Regional Administrator, Alaska
Region, 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-BG54
30. 2017 Summer Flounder and Scup Recreational Harvest
Measures
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
Abstract: This rule would propose management measures--such as
recreational possession limits, minimum fish sizes, and seasonal
closures--to achieve recreational harvest limits for the 2017 summer
flounder and scup recreational fisheries. Specifically, this action
proposes establishing conservation equivalency in Federal waters for
the 2017 recreational summer flounder fishery. Conservation equivalency
means that management would defer to state management measures. If NMFS
is unable to approve the Council's recommendation of conservation
equivalency, the rule would propose coastwide measures to be effective
in Federal waters. This rule would also propose to maintain the 2016
status quo recreational management measures for the scup fishery in
2017. The recreational harvest limits for these species were already
established in a separate rulemaking.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 06/00/17
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Regional Administrator, Greater
Atlantic Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA
01930, Phone: 978 281-9287, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0648-BG68
31. Designate Critical Habitat for the Hawaiian Insular False Killer
Whale Distinct Population Segment
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.
Abstract: In 2012, NMFS listed as endangered the main Hawaiian
Islands (MHI) insular false killer whale (Pseudorca crassidens)
Distinct Population Segment (DPS). The Endangered Species Act (ESA)
requires NMFS to designate critical habitat to support the conservation
and recovery of newly listed species. Accordingly, this proposed rule
would designate critical habitat for the MHI insular false killer whale
DPS in waters around the MHI. NMFS will consider the economic, national
security, or other relevant impacts of the proposed designation, and
would consider excluding areas where such negative impacts would
outweigh the benefits of critical habitat designation.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 10/00/17
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Donna Wieting, Director, Office of Protected
Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 1315 East-West
Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 427-8400.
RIN: 0648-BC45
DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
Final Rule Stage
National Marine Fisheries Service
32. Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishing Capacity Reduction Loan Refinance
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 1861 et seq.; 5
U.S.C. 561 et seq.
Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service issued proposed
regulations to refinance the voluntary fishing capacity reduction loan
program implemented in 2004 in the Pacific Coast groundfish Federal
limited-entry trawl, Washington coastal Dungeness crab, and California
pink shrimp fisheries (collectively known hereafter as the refinanced
reduction fisheries). The refinance loan of up to $30 million could
establish a new industry fee system for future landings of the
refinanced reduction fisheries. Upon publishing a final rule and
receipt of an appropriation, the National Marine Fisheries Service
would conduct three referenda to refinance the existing debt obligation
in each of the refinanced reduction fisheries. If a referendum in one,
two, or all three of the fisheries is successful, that fishery's
current loan will be repaid in full and a new loan in the amount of the
principal and interest balance as of the date of funding will be
issued. The terms were prescribed in the 2015 National Defense
Authorization Act and include a 45-year term to maturity, interest
charged at a current Treasury interest rate, and a maximum repayment
fee of 3 percent of ex-vessel value.
Timetable:
[[Page 40254]]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 08/06/15 80 FR 46941
NPRM Comment Period End............. 09/08/15
Final Action........................ 09/00/17
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Brian Pawlak, Department of Commerce, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver
Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 427-8621, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0648-BE90
33. Pacific Coast Groundfish Trawl Rationalization Program; Widow
Rockfish Reallocation in the Individual Fishing Quota Fishery
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
Abstract: In January 2011, the National Marine Fisheries Service
implemented the groundfish trawl rationalization program (a catch share
program) for the Pacific coast groundfish limited entry trawl fishery.
The program was implemented through Amendments 20 and 21 to the Pacific
Coast Groundfish Fishery Management Plan and the corresponding
implementing regulations. Amendment 20 established the trawl
rationalization program, which includes an Individual Fishing Quota
program for limited entry trawl participants, and Amendment 21
established fixed allocations for limited entry trawl participants.
During implementation of the trawl individual fishing quota program,
widow rockfish was overfished and the initial allocations were based on
its overfished status and management as a non-target species. The
National Marine Fisheries Service declared the widow rockfish rebuilt
in 2011 and, accordingly, the Pacific Fishery Management Council has
now recommended actions to manage the increased abundance of widow
rockfish. The action would reallocate individual fishing quota widow
rockfish quota share to facilitate directed harvest and would lift the
moratorium on widow rockfish quota share trading.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 06/29/16 81 FR 42295
NPRM Comment Period End............. 07/29/16
Final Action........................ 06/00/17
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Barry Thom, Regional Administrator, West Coast
Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 1201 NE. Lloyd Boulevard, Suite 1100, Portland, OR
97232, Phone: 503 231-6266, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0648-BF12
34. Amendment 18 to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
Abstract: Amendment 18 to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery
Management Plan would make necessary minor administrative adjustments
to several groundfish sectors, as well as minor adjustments to fishing
activity designed to protect fishery resources while maximizing
flexibility and efficiency. Specifically, it would include the
following management measures: Creating an accumulation limit for
either the holdings of Potential Sector Contribution or of Northeast
multispecies permits; creating a sub-annual catch limit that Handgear A
permits could enroll in and other measures pertaining to fishing with
Handgear A permits; adjusting what fishery data are considered
confidential, specifically the price of annual catch entitlement
transferred within a sector or leased between sectors; establishing an
inshore/offshore boundary within the Gulf of Maine with associated
measures, including creation of a Gulf of Maine cod sub-annual catch
limit, adjusting the Gulf of Maine Gear Restricted Area boundary to
align with the inshore/offshore boundary, and creating declaration time
periods for fishing in the inshore or offshore areas; and establishing
a Redfish Exemption Area, in which vessels could fish with a smaller
mesh net than the standard mesh size, targeting redfish.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice of Availability.............. 12/06/16 81 FR 87862
NPRM................................ 12/20/16 81 FR 92761
NPRM Comment Period End............. 02/03/17
Final Action........................ 06/00/17
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Regional Administrator, Greater
Atlantic Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA
01930, Phone: 978 281-9287, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0648-BF26
35. Amendment 43 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish
Resources of the Gulf of Mexico
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
Abstract: Based on a recent stock assessment and per the Magnuson-
Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, action is needed to
adjust management measures for the Gulf of Mexico (Gulf) hogfish stock
to prevent overfishing and achieve optimum yield. Consistent with the
stock assessment, this action would redefine the geographic range of
the Gulf hogfish stock, set the status determination criteria, and set
the annual catch limits. This action would also revise the hogfish
minimum size limit to reduce the likelihood of a season closure due to
the annual catch limit being reached and remove the provision in the
regulations that exempts hogfish from the prohibition on the use of
powerheads to take Gulf reef fish in the Gulf stressed area.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice of Availability.............. 11/04/16 81 FR 76908
NPRM................................ 11/23/16 81 FR 84538
NPRM Comment Period End............. 12/23/16
Final Action........................ 06/00/17
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast
Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone:
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0648-BG18
36. Protected Species Hard Caps for the California/Oregon Large-Mesh
Drift Gillnet Fishery
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service intends to
establish two-year rolling hard caps (i.e., limits) on the numbers of
certain marine mammals and sea turtles observed killed or injured in
the California/Oregon large-mesh drift gillnet fishery. The caps would
be established for five marine mammal species and four sea turtle
species. When any of the caps are reached or exceeded, the fishery
would close for the rest of the fishing season and possibly through the
following season. This measure was recommended by the Pacific Fishery
Management Council in September 2015.
Timetable:
[[Page 40255]]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 10/13/16 81 FR 70660
NPRM Comment Period Extended........ 11/23/16 81 FR 84546
NPRM Comment Period End............. 11/28/16
Comment Period End.................. 12/28/16
Final Action........................ 06/00/17
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Barry Thom, Regional Administrator, West Coast
Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 1201 NE. Lloyd Boulevard, Suite 1100, Portland, OR
97232, Phone: 503 231-6266, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0648-BG23
37. Reducing Disturbances to Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins From Human
Interactions
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1361 et seq.
Abstract: This action would implement regulatory measures under the
Marine Mammal Protection Act to protect Hawaiian spinner dolphins that
are resting in protected bays from take due to close approach
interactions with humans.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
ANPRM............................... 12/12/05 70 FR 73426
ANPRM Comment Period End............ 01/11/06
NPRM................................ 08/24/16 81 FR 57854
NPRM Comment Period End............. 10/23/16
NPRM Comment Period Reopened........ 11/16/16 81 FR 80629
Comment Period End.................. 12/01/16
Final Action........................ 09/00/17
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Donna Wieting, Director, Office of Protected
Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 1315 East-West
Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 427-8400.
RIN: 0648-AU02
38. Designation of Critical Habitat for the Gulf of Maine, New York
Bight, and Chesapeake Bay Distinct Population Segments of Atlantic
Sturgeon
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.
Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service listed four
distinct population segments of Atlantic sturgeon as endangered--and
one distinct population of Atlantic sturgeon as threatened--under the
Endangered Species Act on February 6, 2012. This rule would designate
critical habitat for the Gulf of Maine, New York Bight, and Chesapeake
Bay Distinct Population Segments of Atlantic sturgeon. A separate rule
would designate critical habitat for the Carolina and South Atlantic
distinct population segments of Atlantic sturgeon.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 06/03/16 81 FR 35701
NPRM Comment Period End............. 09/01/16
NPRM Comment Period Reopened........ 09/29/16 81 FR 66911
NPRM Comment Period End............. 10/14/16
Final Action........................ 06/00/17
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Donna Wieting, Director, Office of Protected
Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 1315 East-West
Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 427-8400.
RIN: 0648-BF28
39. Regulation To Reduce Incidental Bycatch and Mortality of
Sea Turtles in the Southeastern U.S. Shrimp Fisheries
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.
Abstract: The purpose of the proposed action is to aid in the
protection and recovery of listed sea turtle populations by reducing
incidental bycatch and mortality of small sea turtles in the
Southeastern U.S. shrimp fisheries. As a result of new information on
sea turtle bycatch in shrimp trawls and turtle excluder device testing,
NMFS conducted an evaluation of the Southeastern U.S. shrimp fisheries
that resulted in a draft environmental impact statement. This rule
proposes to withdraw the alternative tow time restriction, which would
require all vessels using skimmer trawls, pusher-head trawls, and wing
nets (butterfly trawls), with the exception of vessels participating in
the Biscayne Bay wing net fishery in Miami-Dade County, Florida, to use
turtle excluder devices designed to exclude small sea turtles.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 12/16/16 81 FR 91097
NPRM Comment Period End............. 02/14/17
Final Action........................ 06/00/17
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast
Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone:
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0648-BG45
DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
Long-Term Actions
National Marine Fisheries Service
40. Amendment 39 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish
Resources of the Gulf of Mexico
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
Abstract: The purpose of this action is to facilitate management of
the recreational red snapper component in the reef fish fishery by
reorganizing the federal fishery management strategy to better account
for biological, social, and economic differences among the regions of
the Gulf of Mexico. Regional management would enable regions and their
associated communities to specify the optimal management parameters
that best meet the needs of their local constituents thereby addressing
regional socio-economic concerns.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice.............................. 05/13/13 78 FR 27956
-----------------------------------
Next Stage Undetermined............. To Be Determined
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Phone: 727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-
5308, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0648-BD25
41. Implementation of a Program for Transshipments by Large Scale
Fishing Vessels in the Eastern Pacific Ocean
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 951 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 971 et seq.
Abstract: This rule would implement the Inter-American Tropical
Tuna Commission program to monitor transshipments by large-scale tuna
[[Page 40256]]
fishing vessels, and would govern transshipments by U.S. large-scale
tuna fishing vessels and carrier, or receiving, vessels. The rule would
establish: Criteria for transshipping in port; criteria for
transshipping at sea by longline vessels to an authorized carrier
vessel with an Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission observer onboard
and an operational vessel monitoring system; and require the Pacific
Transshipment Declaration Form, which must be used to report
transshipments in the Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission
Convention Area. This rule is necessary for the United States to
satisfy its international obligations under the 1949 Convention for the
Establishment of an Inter-American Tropical Tuna, to which it is a
Contracting Party.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 05/00/18
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Barry Thom, Phone: 503 231-6266, Email:
[email protected].
RIN: 0648-BD59
42. Designation of Critical Habitat for the Arctic Ringed Seal
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.
Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service published a final
rule to list the Arctic ringed seal as a threatened species under the
Endangered Species Act (ESA) in December 2012. The ESA requires
designation of critical habitat at the time a species is listed as
threatened or endangered, or within one year of listing if critical
habitat is not then determinable. This rulemaking would designate
critical habitat for the Arctic ringed seal. The critical habitat
designation would be in the northern Bering, Chukchi, and Beaufort seas
within the current range of the species.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 12/03/14 79 FR 71714
Proposed Rule....................... 12/09/14 79 FR 73010
Notice of Public Hearings........... 01/13/15 80 FR 1618
Comment Period Extended............. 02/02/15 80 FR 5498
-----------------------------------
Final Action........................ To Be Determined
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Donna Wieting, Phone: 301 427-8400.
RIN: 0648-BC56
NOS/ONMS
43. Mallows Bay-Potomac River National Marine Sanctuary Designation
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1431 et seq.
Abstract: On September 16, 2014, pursuant to section 304 of the
National Marine Sanctuaries Act (NMSA) and the Sanctuary Nomination
Process (79 FR 33851), a coalition of community groups submitted a
nomination asking NOAA to designate Mallows Bay-Potomac River as a
national marine sanctuary. The Mallows Bay area of the tidal Potomac
River being considered for designation as a national marine sanctuary
is an area 40 miles south of Washington, DC, off the Nanjemoy Peninsula
of Charles County, MD. The designation of a national marine sanctuary
would focus on conserving the collection of maritime heritage resources
(shipwrecks) in the area as well as expand the opportunities for public
access, recreation, tourism, research, and education. NOAA completed
its review of the nomination in accordance with the Sanctuary
Nomination Process and on January 12, 2015, added the area to the
inventory of nominations that are eligible for designation. On October
7, 2015, NOAA issued a notice of intent to begin the designation
process and asked for public comment on making this area a national
marine sanctuary. Designation under the NMSA would allow NOAA to
supplement and complement work by the State of Maryland and other
federal agencies to protect this collection of nationally significant
shipwrecks.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 01/09/17 82 FR 2254
NPRM Comment Period End............. 03/31/17
Final Action........................ 05/00/18
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Vicki Wedell, Phone: 301 713-7237, Fax: 301 713-
0404, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0648-BG02
DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
Completed Actions
44. Capital Construction Fund; Fishing Vessel Capital Construction Fund
Procedures
Legal Authority: 46 U.S.C. 1177 et seq.
Abstract: This action would amend Fishing Vessel Capital
Construction Fund (CCF) Program regulations to simplify and clarify
them and to ease restrictions on vessel reconstruction to promote fleet
safety, reliability and efficiency. Current regulations require an
annual deposit of 2 percent of the anticipated cost of the CCF
objective, that a used vessel acquired with CCF funds be reconstructed
within 7 years of the acquisition date, that reconstruction projects
cost a minimum of either $100,000 or 20 percent of acquisition cost,
and that reconstruction projects be completed within 18 months of their
commencement.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 09/25/14 79 FR 57496
NPRM Comment Period End............. 11/10/14
Final Action........................ 05/30/17 82 FR 24561
Final Action Effective.............. 06/29/17
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Brian Pawlak, Department of Commerce, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver
Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 427-8621, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0648-AW57
45. Amendment 5B to the Highly Migratory Species Fishery Management
Plan
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 971 et seq.
Abstract: This rulemaking would implement management measures for
dusky sharks based on the latest stock assessment, which determined
dusky sharks are still overfished and still experiencing overfishing,
taking into consideration comments received on the proposed rule and
Amendment 5 to the 2006 Consolidated Highly Migratory Species Fishery
Management Plan. This rulemaking considers a range of commercial and
recreational management measures in both directed and incidental shark
fisheries including, among other things, gear modifications, time/area
closures, permitting, shark
[[Page 40257]]
identification requirements, and reporting requirements.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 10/18/16 81 FR 71672
Public Hearing...................... 11/14/16 81 FR 79409
NPRM Comment Period End............. 12/22/16
Final Action........................ 04/04/17 82 FR 16478
Final Action Effective.............. 06/05/17
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, Room 13362, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD
20910, Phone: 301 713-2334, Fax: 301 713-0596, Email:
[email protected].
RIN: 0648-BD22
46. Regulatory Amendment 16 to the Fishery Management Plan for the
Snapper-Grouper Fishery of the South Atlantic Region
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
Abstract: Regulatory Amendment 16 contained an action to address
the prohibition on the use of black sea bass pots annually from
November 1 through April 30 that was implemented through Regulatory
Amendment 19. The prohibition was a precautionary measure to prevent
interactions between black sea bass pot gear and whales listed under
the Endangered Species Act during large whale migrations and the right
whale calving season off the southeastern coast. The South Atlantic
Fishery Management Council, through Regulatory Amendment 16, removed
the closure, changed the length of the closure, and changed the area of
the closure. The goal was to minimize adverse socio-economic impacts to
black sea bass pot endorsement holders while maintaining protection for
Endangered Species Act-listed whales in the South Atlantic region.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 08/11/16 81 FR 53109
NPRM Comment Period End............. 09/12/16
Final Rule.......................... 12/29/16 81 FR 95893
Final Rule Effective................ 01/30/17
Stay of Final Rule.................. 01/31/17 82 FR 8820
Correction.......................... 02/21/17 82 FR 11156
Correction Effective................ 02/21/17
Stay of Final Rule Effective........ 03/21/17
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast
Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone:
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0648-BD78
47. Magnuson-Stevens Fisheries Conservation and Management Act; Seafood
Import Monitoring Program
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1857 et seq.
Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service implemented
regulatory changes to improve the administration of the Magnuson-
Stevens Fisheries Conservation and Management Act prohibition on the
entry into interstate or foreign commerce of any fish taken in
violation of any foreign law or regulation. The rule included
adjustments to permitting and reporting requirements to provide for
traceability of seafood products offered for entry into the U.S. supply
chain, and to ensure that these products were lawfully acquired and are
properly labeled. Requirements for an international trade permit and
reporting on the origin of certain imported or exported fishery
products were previously established by regulations applicable to a
number of specified fishery products. This rulemaking extended those
existing permitting and reporting requirements to additional fish
species and seafood products.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 02/05/16 81 FR 6210
NPRM Comment Period Extended........ 03/31/16 81 FR 18558
NPRM Comment Period End............. 04/05/16
NPRM Comment Period End............. 04/12/16
Final Rule.......................... 12/09/16 81 FR 88975
Final Rule Effective................ 01/09/17
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: John Henderschedt, Director, Office for
International Affairs and Seafood Inspection, Department of Commerce,
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East West
Highway, Room 10362, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 427-8314,
Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0648-BF09
48. Allow the Use of Longline Pot Gear in the Gulf of Alaska Sablefish
Individual Fishing Quota Fishery
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 773 et seq.
Abstract: This action amended Federal regulations to allow
fishermen to use longline pot gear to harvest sablefish in the Gulf of
Alaska Individual Fishing Quota fishery. Hook-and-line gear is
currently the only authorized gear type in the sablefish Individual
Fishing Quota fishery. The action authorized Individual Fishing Quota
fishermen to use either longline pot gear or hook-and-line gear in the
sablefish Individual Fishing Quota fishery. Some fishermen would like
to use longline pot gear because it is less prone to whale interactions
than hook-and-line gear. The action established management measures to
minimize conflicts between hook-and-line and longline pot gear on the
fishing grounds and to prevent significant consolidation of sablefish
Individual Fishing Quota onto fewer vessels.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice of Availability.............. 08/08/16 81 FR 52394
NPRM................................ 08/19/16 81 FR 55408
NPRM Comment Period End............. 09/19/16
Final Rule.......................... 12/28/16 81 FR 95435
Final Rule Effective................ 01/27/17
Stay of Final Rule.................. 01/31/17 82 FR 8810
Stay of Final Rule Effective........ 01/31/17
Final Action........................ 02/07/17 82 FR 9501
Final Action Effective.............. 03/11/17
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: James Balsiger, Regional Administrator, Alaska
Region, 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-BF42
49. Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Atlantic Blacknose Shark
Commercial Retention Limit
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 971 et seq.
Abstract: This rule evaluated the management measures for blacknose
sharks in the Atlantic region. It considered, among other things, a
range of commercial management measures in both directed and incidental
shark fisheries including, but not limited to,
[[Page 40258]]
retention limits. In addition, this action addressed commercial
retention limits to help prevent early closures of the non-blacknose
small coastal shark management group and fully utilize the quota.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 08/03/16 81 FR 51165
NPRM Comment Period End............. 09/20/16
Final Action........................ 12/14/16 81 FR 90241
Final Action Effective.............. 01/13/17
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, Room 13362, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD
20910, Phone: 301 713-2334, Fax: 301 713-0596, Email:
[email protected].
RIN: 0648-BF49
50. Amendment 113 to the FMP for Groundfish of the BSAI To Establish a
Catcher Vessel Fishing Period and Shoreside Processing Delivery
Requirements for Aleutian Islands Pacific Cod
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
Abstract: This rule restricted participation in the Aleutian
Islands Pacific cod fishery. This action was necessary to provide
stability to catcher vessels that participate in the Aleutian Islands
Pacific cod fishery and the shoreside processors to which they deliver,
and to the communities in which these processors are located.
Specifically, this rule established catch limits for Pacific cod in the
Aleutian Islands and the Bering Sea. The revised allocation was
intended to provide catcher vessels with a sufficient opportunity to
harvest Pacific cod in an inshore fishery by restricting participation
in the fisheries by catcher processors that can harvest significantly
larger volumes of Pacific cod further offshore. This rule included
provisions to relieve the restrictions on catcher processor
participation if catcher vessels would not be able to harvest the
allocation or Aleutian Islands shoreside processors would not be able
to process catcher vessel harvests of Pacific cod.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice of Availability.............. 07/19/16 81 FR 46883
NPRM................................ 08/01/16 81 FR 50444
NPRM Comment Period End............. 08/31/16
Final Action........................ 11/23/16 81 FR 84434
Final Action Effective.............. 11/23/16
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: James Balsiger, Regional Administrator, Alaska
Region, 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-BF54
51. Specification of Management Measures for Atlantic Herring for the
2016-2018 Fishing Years
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
Abstract: The Atlantic herring fishery specifications were annual
catch amounts for the 2016-2018 fishing years, January-December. These
specifications are required by regulation to be set for 3 years. These
specifications changed the current catch limit levels and continued to
prevent overfishing of the herring resource and achieve optimum yield.
The catch limits established in these specifications set a constant
catch amount available to the industry that provided a stable allowable
catch for 3-year business planning purposes. In addition, the
specifications added catch that was not caught under last year's catch
limit for one management area and reduced catch that exceeded the catch
limits set in other management areas. Finally, the specifications set
annual gear-specific and area-specific catch caps for river herring and
shad, consistent with Framework Adjustment 3 to the Atlantic Herring
Fishery Management Plan.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 06/21/16 81 FR 40253
NPRM Comment Period End............. 07/21/16
Final Action........................ 11/01/16 81 FR 75731
Final Action Effective.............. 12/01/16
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Regional Administrator, Greater
Atlantic Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA
01930, Phone: 978 281-9287, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0648-BF64
52. Amendment 19 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
Abstract: Amendment 19 incorporated a specifications process into
the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan and changed the start
of the fishing year. Developing specifications to set annual or
biennial allocations will allow for a more efficient process for
setting annual allocations than currently possible through framework
adjustments. By adjusting the start of the scallop fishing year, the
National Marine Fisheries Service would be able to implement simple
specifications actions at the start of the fishing year on a more
consistent basis.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice of Availability.............. 07/20/16 81 FR 47152
NPRM................................ 08/16/16 81 FR 54533
NPRM Comment Period End............. 09/15/16
Final Action........................ 11/03/16 81 FR 76516
Final Action Effective.............. 12/05/16
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No.
Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Regional Administrator, Greater
Atlantic Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA
01930, Phone: 978 281-9287, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0648-BF72
53. Observer Coverage Requirements for Catcher Vessels Using Trawl Gear
in the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands Management Area
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
Abstract: This rule allowed the owner of a catcher vessel in the
Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands Management Area trawl limited access
fisheries to annually choose to have the vessel placed in the full
observer coverage category for all fishing in the Bering Sea and
Aleutian Islands Management Area in the upcoming year. Under the
previous regulations for the North Pacific Groundfish and Halibut
Observer Program, catcher vessels in the Bering Sea and Aleutian
Islands Management Area trawl limited access fisheries were assigned to
the partial observer coverage category. Vessels in the partial observer
coverage category must carry an observer on selected fishing trips,
whereas vessels in the full
[[Page 40259]]
observer coverage category must carry an observer for all of their
fishing activity. Owners of trawl catcher vessels requested to be
allowed to voluntarily choose full coverage to obtain observer data
from all of their fishing trips to better manage their halibut
prohibited species catch.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 07/07/16 81 FR 44251
NPRM Comment Period End............. 08/08/16
Final Action........................ 09/30/16 81 FR 67113
Final Action Effective.............. 10/31/16
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: James Balsiger, Regional Administrator, Alaska
Region, 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-BF80
54. Framework Amendment 1 to the Dolphin and Wahoo Fishery Management
Plan of the Atlantic
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
Abstract: Dolphin Wahoo 1 established a commercial trip limit after
a specified percentage of the commercial sector annual catch limit has
been reached and would continue until the end of the fishing year or
until the entire commercial annual catch limit is met, whichever comes
first.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 06/30/16 81 FR 42625
NPRM Comment Period End............. 08/01/16
Final Rule.......................... 12/29/16 81 FR 96388
Final Rule Effective................ 01/30/17
Stay of Final Rule.................. 01/31/17 82 FR 8820
Delayed Effective Date.............. 03/21/17
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast
Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone:
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0648-BF81
55. Amendment 103 to the Fishery Management Plan for Groundfish of the
Gulf of Alaska To Reapportion Chinook Salmon Prohibited Catch in the
Gulf of Alaska Trawl Fisheries
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 3631 et seq.; 16
U.S.C. 773 et seq.; Pub. L. 08-199
Abstract: This action allowed the National Marine Fisheries Service
to reapportion unused Chinook salmon prohibited species catch within
and between trawl sectors in the Gulf of Alaska groundfish fisheries to
reduce the potential for early fishery closures. Amendments 93 and 97
to the Fishery Management Plan for Groundfish of the Gulf of Alaska and
implementing regulations established Chinook salmon prohibited species
catch limits for pollock and non-pollock trawl fisheries. Specifically,
this action: Allowed the National Marine Fisheries Service to
reapportion remaining Chinook salmon prohibited species catch among
trawl catcher vessel sectors and from the trawl catcher/processor
sector to trawl catcher vessel sectors based on criteria established
for inseason reapportionments and within specified limits; increased
management flexibility without exceeding the current overall 32,500
Chinook salmon prohibited species catch limit or negating the current
prohibited species catch limits under Amendments 93 and 97; and
increased the likelihood that groundfish resources are more fully
harvested, and minimized the adverse socioeconomic impacts of the
fishery closures on harvesters, processors, and communities.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice of Availability.............. 05/26/16 81 FR 33456
NPRM................................ 06/16/16 81 FR 39237
NPRM Comment Period End............. 07/18/16
Final Action........................ 09/12/16 81 FR 62659
Final Action Effective.............. 10/12/16
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: James Balsiger, Regional Administrator, Alaska
Region, 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-BF84
56. Framework Action To Adjust the Red Grouper Allowable Harvest in the
Gulf of Mexico
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
Abstract: This Framework Action adjusted the red grouper allowable
harvest in the Gulf of Mexico, consistent with the results of a 2015
stock assessment. The commercial annual catch limit and annual catch
target were adjusted from 6.03 million pounds gutted weight and 5.72
million pounds gutted weight, to 8.19 million pounds gutted weight, and
7.78 million pounds gutted weight, respectively. The recreational
annual catch limit and annual catch target were adjusted from 1.9
million pounds gutted weight and 1.73 million pounds gutted weight, to
2.58 million pounds gutted weight, and 2.37 million pounds gutted
weight, respectively. These increases in the annual catch limits and
annual catch targets provided more quota to the commercial fisherman
and were expected to extend the recreational fishing season, which has
been closed in-season in recent years, through the end of the year.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 07/26/16 81 FR 48728
NPRM Comment Period End............. 08/25/16
Final Action........................ 10/12/16 81 FR 70365
Final Action Effective.............. 10/12/16
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast
Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone:
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0648-BG12
57. Amendment 45 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish
Resources of the Gulf of Mexico
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
Abstract: The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council developed
and implemented separate federal for-hire and private angling
components for red snapper management measures to better prevent
overfishing while achieving the optimum yield. Amendment 40 defined the
components, allocated the recreational red snapper quota between the
components, and established a three-year sunset provision for the
components. The purpose of this action was to extend the sector
separation
[[Page 40260]]
sunset provision established in Amendment 40 for five additional years
to allow completion of component-focused management strategies.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice of Availability.............. 08/25/16 81 FR 58466
NPRM................................ 09/08/16 81 FR 62069
NPRM Comment Period End............. 10/24/16
Final Action........................ 12/02/16 81 FR 86971
Correction.......................... 12/07/16 81 FR 88135
Final Action Effective.............. 01/03/17
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast
Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone:
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0648-BG19
58. Framework Adjustment 28 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop
Fishery Management Plan
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
Abstract: This action sets management measures for the scallop
fishery for the 2017 fishing year, including the annual catch limits
and annual catch targets for the limited access and fleets, as well as
days-at-sea allocations and sea scallop access area trip allocations.
Furthermore, Framework 28 would implement additional measures to set
the limited access general category individual fishing quota based on
spatial management, prevent the shucking of scallops off the days-at-
sea clock, and reduce discard mortality.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 01/19/17 82 FR 6472
NPRM Comment Period End............. 02/07/17
Final Action Effective.............. 03/23/17
Final Action........................ 03/27/17 82 FR 15155
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Regional Administrator, Greater
Atlantic Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA
01930, Phone: 978 281-9287, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0648-BG46
59. Designation of Critical Habitat for the Carolina and South Atlantic
Distinct Population Segments of Atlantic Sturgeon
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.
Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service listed four
distinct population segments of Atlantic sturgeon as endangered--and
one distinct population of Atlantic sturgeon as threatened--under the
Endangered Species Act on February 6, 2012. This action proposes to
designate critical habitat for the Carolina and South Atlantic Distinct
Population Segments of Atlantic sturgeon, both listed as endangered.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 06/03/16 81 FR 36077
Correction.......................... 06/28/16 81 FR 41926
NPRM Comment Period End............. 09/01/16
NPRM Comment Period Reopened........ 09/29/16 81 FR 66911
NPRM Comment Period End............. 10/14/16
Merged With 0648-BF28............... 03/23/17
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Donna Wieting, Director, Office of Protected
Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 1315 East-West
Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 427-8400.
RIN: 0648-BF32
60. Endangered and Threatened Species; Critical Habitat for the
Threatened Caribbean Corals
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.
Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service listed five
Caribbean corals in the Southeast Region as threatened under the
Endangered Species Act on October 10, 2014. This rule proposes to
designate critical habitat for the five listed corals and revises
critical habitat for the previously-listed corals Acropora palmata and
Acropora cervicornis.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Merged With 0648-BG26............... 05/01/17
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Donna Wieting, Director, Office of Protected
Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 1315 East-West
Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 427-8400.
RIN: 0648-BG20
[FR Doc. 2017-16888 Filed 8-23-17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3510-12-P