<DOC>
[December 10, 2007 (Volume 72, Number 236)]
[Unified Agenda]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [frwais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID: f:ua071004.wais]

[Page 70014-70036]
 
Department of Commerce


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Part IV








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Semiannual Regulatory Agenda

[[Page 70014]]

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 2007 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 2007 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 2007 regulatory agenda includes 
regulatory activities that are expected to be conducted during the 
period October 1, 2007, through September 30, 2008.

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 Nist, Acting 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: Executive Order 12866 requires agencies to 
publish an agenda of those regulations that are under consideration 
pursuant to this order. By memorandum of June 22, 2007, the Office of 
Management and Budget issued guidelines and procedures for the 
preparation and publication of the fall 2007 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 will be 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 (5 U.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) any 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 entireRegulatory 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 70015]]

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 2007 regulatory agenda follows.

 John J. Sullivan,

General Counsel.

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


                         National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Prerule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
227         American Lobster Data Collection and Broodstock Protection Measures...................    0648-AV77
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                      National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
228         Amendment 9 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fishery Management Plan...    0648-AP60
229         Maximize Retention and Monitoring Program in the Shore-Based Pacific Whiting Fishery..    0648-AR63
230         Amendment 72 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Groundfish of the Gulf of Alaska..    0648-AR72
231         Revisions to the Definitions of Exempted Fishing and Scientific Research..............    0648-AR78
232         Amendment 1 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Tilefish Fishery...................    0648-AS25
233         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS); Reducing Sea Turtle Takes....................    0648-AS49
234         Generic Amendment To Provide for Regulation of Offshore Aquaculture of Selected Fish..    0648-AS65
235         Establish Management Measures for the Western Pacific Squid Fishery...................    0648-AS71
236         American Lobster Fishery; Fishing Effort Control Measures To Complement Interstate        0648-AT31
            Lobster Management Recommendations by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission.
237         Amendment 10 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fishery Management Plan..    0648-AT58
238         Joint Amendment to the Fishery Management Plans for the Shrimp (Amendment 14) and Reef    0648-AT87
            Fish Fisheries (Amendment 27) of the Gulf of Mexico...................................
239         American Lobster Fishery: Broodstock Protection and Trap Effort Control Regulations       0648-AU07
            for Offshore Area 3...................................................................
240         BSAI Amendment 73 and GOA Amendment 77 FMP To Revise Management Authority of Dark         0648-AU20
            Rockfish..............................................................................
241         Amendment 10 to the Bottomfish and Seamount Groundfish Fishery Management Plan:           0648-AU22
            Measures To End Bottomfish Overfishing in the Hawaiian Archipelago....................
242         Amendment 14 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Snapper-Grouper Fishery of the        0648-AU28
            South Atlantic Region.................................................................
243         Amendment 15 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Snapper-Grouper Fishery of the        0648-AU29
            South Atlantic Region.................................................................
244         Amendment 11 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan......................    0648-AU32
245         Amendment 15 to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery Management Plan.    0648-AU36
246         Framework Adjustment to the Bycatch Reduction Criterion for the Fishery Management        0648-AU59
            Plan for the Shrimp Fishery of the Gulf of Mexico.....................................
247         Restrictions for 2007 Purse Seine and Longline Fisheries in the Eastern Tropical          0648-AU79
            Pacific Ocean.........................................................................
248         Individual Fishing Quota Processing Restriction Amendments............................    0648-AU85
249         Regulatory Amendment to the Fishery Management Plan for the Coastal Migratory Pelagic     0648-AV17
            Resources in the Gulf of Mexico and South Atlantic Region.............................
250         South Atlantic Fishery Ecosystem Plan Comprehensive Amendment.........................    0648-AV31
251         Modifying Maximum Retainable Amounts (MRAs) for Selected Groundfish Species Caught by     0648-AV32
            the Non-American Fishing Act Trawl Catcher Processor Sector...........................
252         Reef Fish Amendment 30A for Greater Amberjack and Gray Triggerfish: TAC Adjustments,      0648-AV34
            Measures To End Overfishing and Establish SFA Parameters..............................
253         Specifications for the 2008 Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fisheries........    0648-AV40
254         Specifications for the 2008 Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fisheries.......    0648-AV41
255         Specifications for the 2008-2010 Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Fisheries..................    0648-AV42
256         Guidance for Annual Catch Limits (ACLs) and Accountability Measures (AMs) To End          0648-AV60
            Overfishing (Reg Plan Seq No. 31).....................................................
257         Rule To Implement a Minimum Size Limit on Spiny Lobster (Panulirus argus) Imports.....    0648-AV61

[[Page 70016]]


258         FMP Amendments 88, 23,12, and 9 for Aleutian Islands Habitat Conservation Area            0648-AV62
            Revision..............................................................................
259         Individual Fishing Quota Omnibus V Actions 2 and 4: Allow Longline Pot Gear in Bering     0648-AV64
            Sea During June; Allow Mobilized Military Personnel To Make Temporary Individual
            Fishing Quota Transfers...............................................................
260         Collection and Use of Tax Identification Numbers From Applicants for National Marine      0648-AV76
            Fisheries Service Permits.............................................................
261         General Provisions for Domestic Fisheries; Specifications for Boarding Ladders........    0648-AV78
262         Gulf Reef Fish Amendment 30B..........................................................    0648-AV80
263         Framework Adjustment 19 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan...........    0648-AV90
264         Framework Adjustment 20 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan...........    0648-AV91
265         Vessel Incentive Program (VIP) Repeal.................................................    0648-AV96
266         Revise Fishery Management Plan (FMP) for Reef Fish of Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin         0648-AV98
            Islands and FMP for Spiny Lobster Fishery of Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands......
267         Amendment 89 to the Fishery Management Plan to Bering Sea; Bering Sea Habitat             0648-AW06
            Conservation Measures.................................................................
268         Designation of Critical Habitat for the Endangered U.S. Distinct Population Segment       0648-AV74
            (DPS) of Smalltooth Sawfish...........................................................
269         Establish Take Prohibitions for the Threatened Southern Distinct Population Segment of    0648-AV94
            North American Green Sturgeon.........................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register.


                        National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
270         Require Mandatory Observer Coverage in the At-Sea Processing Sector of the Whiting        0648-AK26
            Fishery...............................................................................
271         Expansion of the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery Vessel Monitoring System to the Open    0648-AU08
            Access Fishery........................................................................
272         Framework 4 to the Fishery Management Plan for Monkfish...............................    0648-AU34
273         Amendment 85 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Groundfish of the Bering Sea and      0648-AU48
            Aleutian Islands (BSAI) Management Area; Pacific Cod Allocations......................
274         Amendment 15 to the Pacific Coast Salmon Fishery Management Plan......................    0648-AU69
275         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Atlantic Shark Management Measures 2007............    0648-AU89
276         Vessel Monitoring System Revision for Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands (BSAI) and Gulf     0648-AU93
            of Alaska (GOA) Fisheries.............................................................
277         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; North and South Atlantic Swordfish Commercial          0648-AV10
            Management Measures...................................................................
278         Alaska Groundfish Fisheries Seabird Avoidance Measures................................    0648-AV38
279         Reef Fish Regulatory Amendment for Vermilion Snapper To Revise Management Measures....    0648-AV45
280         Rule To Revise the Gulf of Mexico (Gulf) Reef Fish Vessel Monitoring System (VMS)         0648-AV59
            Reporting Requirements, Power-Down Exemption, and Red Snapper Individual Fishing Quota
            (IFQ) 3-Hour Notification.............................................................
281         2008 Summer Flounder Recreational Coastwide Measure...................................    0648-AV99
282         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.............................................................................
283         Taking of Marine Mammals Incidental to Commercial Fishing Operations; Atlantic Large      0648-AS01
            Whale Take Reduction Plan Regulations.................................................
284         Right Whale Ship Strike Reduction (Reg Plan Seq No. 32)...............................    0648-AS36
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register.


                       National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
285         Regulatory Amendment To Adjust Permit Renewal Requirements and Transferability            0648-AQ20
            Restrictions in NWHI's Hoomalu Zone and Mau Limited Access Programs...................
286         Amendment 1 to the Atlantic Herring Fishery Management Plan...........................    0648-AQ87
287         Amendment 14 to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery.................    0648-AS22
288         Amendment to Regulations Implementing the Antarctic Marine Living Resources Convention    0648-AS75
            Act of 1984...........................................................................
289         Framework 1 to the Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Fishery Management Plan..................    0648-AT62
290         Amendment 84-A to the FMP for the Groundfish Fishery of the Bering Sea and Aleutian       0648-AU03
            Islands Management Area Implementing Salmon Bycatch Measures..........................

[[Page 70017]]


291         Observer Health and Safety............................................................    0648-AU46
292         Reconciliation of State and Federal Commercial Fishing Vessel Permit Programs.........    0648-AU51
293         Recreational Specifications for the 2007 Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass        0648-AU60
            Fisheries.............................................................................
294         Amendment 80 to the Fishery Management Plan for Groundfish of the Bering Sea and          0648-AU68
            Aleutian Islands......................................................................
295         Atlantic Hagfish Collection of Information Requirements...............................    0648-AU80
296         Regulatory Amendment To Revise Electronic Reporting Software and Hardware Requirements    0648-AV13
            of the Observer Communications System (OCS)...........................................
297         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS); Sea Turtle Handling Gear; Atlantic Bluefin       0648-AV16
            Tuna Retention Limits.................................................................
298         2007 Georges Bank Cod Fixed Gear Sector Operations Plan and TAC Allocation............    0648-AV22
299         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS); Temporary Suspension of Requirement To Use       0648-AV25
            Circle Hooks in Atlantic Billfish Tournaments.........................................
300         Amendment 13; Rule To Permanently Provide for Industry-Funded Observer Coverage in the    0648-AV39
            Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan..........................................
301         Amendment 7 to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery Management Plan..    0648-AV43
302         Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery; Establish Catch Accounting Requirements for             0648-AV46
            Processors/First Receivers Participating in the Pacific Whiting Shoreside Fishery.....
303         Pacific Halibut Fisheries; Guided Sport Charter Vessel Fishery for Halibut............    0648-AV47
304         2007 Pacific Whiting Harvest Specifications and In-Season Adjustments to Groundfish       0648-AV52
            Management Measures...................................................................
305         Restrict Entry to the Pacific Whiting Primary Fishery in 2007 in the Pacific Coast        0648-AV57
            Groundfish Fishery....................................................................
306         Amendment 15 to the Pacific Coast Salmon Fishery Management Plan De Minimis Fishing       0648-AV07
            Opportunity for Klamath River Fall Run Chinook Salmon.................................
307         Rule Amending Gillnet Management Measures To Protect Right Whales in the Southeast        0648-AU90
            U.S. Calving Habitat..................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Long-Term Actions
International Trade Administration (ITA)
_______________________________________________________________________

226. 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: janet--heinzen@ita.doc.gov

RIN: 0625-AA59

[[Page 70018]]

_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC)                              Prerule Stage
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
_______________________________________________________________________

227. <bullet<ls-thn-eq> AMERICAN LOBSTER DATA COLLECTION AND BROODSTOCK 
PROTECTION MEASURES

Legal Authority: 16 USC 5101 et seq

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service 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                           09/21/07                    72 FR 53978
ANPRM Comment Period End        11/22/07
NPRM                            03/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AV77
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC)                        Proposed Rule Stage
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
_______________________________________________________________________

228. AMENDMENT 9 TO THE ATLANTIC MACKEREL, SQUID, AND BUTTERFISH FISHERY 
MANAGEMENT PLAN

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: Amendment 9 contains a variety of management measures, 
including multiple year specifications, entry into the directed Illex 
fishery, overfishing definition for Loligo, electronic daily reporting 
for the Illex fishery, and designating and reducing impacts on 
essential fish habitat.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AP60
_______________________________________________________________________

229. 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, the 
National Marine Fisheries Service 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.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: D. Robert Lohn, 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

RIN: 0648-AR63
_______________________________________________________________________

230. AMENDMENT 72 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE GROUNDFISH OF 
THE GULF OF ALASKA

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: This action would eliminate an existing requirement under the 
Improved Retention/Improved Utilization (IR/IU) program that groundfish 
fisheries retain shallow water flatfish in the Gulf of Alaska (GOA). 
This action may relieve some harvesting and utilization restrictions on 
GOA groundfish harvesting and processing operations. It follows a 
parallel action taken in the BSAI to relieve those groundfish fisheries 
from requirements to retain all IR/IU flatfish

[[Page 70019]]

species. This FMP has no implementing regulations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/07

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

RIN: 0648-AR72
_______________________________________________________________________

231. REVISIONS TO THE DEFINITIONS OF EXEMPTED FISHING AND SCIENTIFIC 
RESEARCH

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service amends the regulations 
at 50 CFR 600.745. The action is intended to provide clearer guidance 
to the public for obtaining appropriate acknowledgments and permits and 
to facilitate the timely conduct of research to address bycatch and 
habitat issues in the fisheries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/07

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

RIN: 0648-AR78
_______________________________________________________________________

232. 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 Transferable Quotas in the tilefish 
fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AS25
_______________________________________________________________________

233. 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
NPRM                            11/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/07

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

RIN: 0648-AS49
_______________________________________________________________________

234. GENERIC AMENDMENT TO PROVIDE FOR REGULATION OF OFFSHORE AQUACULTURE 
OF SELECTED FISH

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. Possible 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) designation of sites or areas 
for conducting aquaculture; (7) buffer zones for aquaculture 
facilities; (8) recordkeeping and reporting requirements; and (9) 
regulations to aid in the enforcement of marine aquaculture facilities.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/00/08
NPRM Comment Period End         03/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AS65
_______________________________________________________________________

235. ESTABLISH MANAGEMENT MEASURES FOR THE WESTERN PACIFIC SQUID FISHERY

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: Under amendment to the Western Pacific Pelagics Fishery 
Management Plan, pelagic squid would be designated as a management unit 
species, and measures would be established governing the pelagic squid 
fishery in the western Pacific region.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/07

[[Page 70020]]

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

RIN: 0648-AS71
_______________________________________________________________________

236. AMERICAN LOBSTER FISHERY; FISHING EFFORT CONTROL MEASURES TO 
COMPLEMENT INTERSTATE LOBSTER MANAGEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS BY THE ATLANTIC 
STATES MARINE FISHERIES COMMISSION

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                            12/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AT31
_______________________________________________________________________

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

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: This action would implement a rebuilding program for 
butterfish.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AT58
_______________________________________________________________________

238. JOINT AMENDMENT TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLANS FOR THE SHRIMP 
(AMENDMENT 14) AND REEF FISH FISHERIES (AMENDMENT 27) OF THE GULF OF 
MEXICO

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: Shrimp and reef fish in the Gulf of Mexico are managed under 
their respective FMPs. Both fisheries contribute to fishing mortality 
on reef fish, especially juvenile and undersized red snapper. Age-0 and 
Age-1 red snapper are taken by shrimp trawls, and Age-2 and older red 
snapper are caught in the directed commercial and recreational red 
snapper fishery. Red snapper is overfished and undergoing overfishing, 
and reducing fishing mortality on these younger age classes is needed 
to help rebuild the stock. Actions to reduce bycatch of red snapper are 
anticipated to reduce bycatch fishing mortality for other reef fish 
species as well. The Gulf Council began work on the joint amendment, 
which will consider a variety of harvesting and gear restrictions to 
further reduce fishing mortality and fishing effort in the shrimp and 
red snapper fisheries. In August 2006, the Gulf Council deferred 
working on this amendment until new information was available in 
January 2007. However, by postponing the development of a plan 
amendment, measures to address overfishing during the 2007 fishing 
season would not occur, further delaying progress in stock recovery. 
Thus, to address overfishing on the red snapper stock for 2007, NMFS is 
developing this interim rule.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/14/06                    71 FR 75220
NPRM Comment Period End         01/26/07
Interim Final Rule              04/02/07                    72 FR 15617
Interim Final Rule Effective    05/02/07
Second NPRM                     10/23/07                    72 FR 59989
Second NPRM Comment Period End  12/07/07
Final Rule                      02/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AT87
_______________________________________________________________________

239. AMERICAN LOBSTER FISHERY: BROODSTOCK PROTECTION AND TRAP EFFORT 
CONTROL REGULATIONS FOR OFFSHORE AREA 3

Legal Authority: 16 USC 5101 et seq

Abstract: This rule would modify Federal American lobster regulations 
based on recommendations to the National Marine Fisheries Service 
(NMFS) by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (Commission) 
as part of the Commission's Interstate Fishery Management Plan for 
American Lobster (ISFMP). The modifications to enhance protection to 
American lobster broodstock and control trap fishing effort would: 
Increase in the minimum legal lobster size limit from 3-3/8 inches to 
3-1/2 inches in Lobster Conservation Management Area (Area) 3; increase 
the size of rectangular and circular lobster trap escape vents by 1/16-
inch effective July 1, 2010, in Area 3; and implement a four-stage 
schedule of annual trap reductions that would reduce the amount of 
traps allocated in Area 3 by up to 15 percent.

[[Page 70021]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           12/13/05                    70 FR 73717
ANPRM Comment Period End        01/12/06
NPRM                            12/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AU07
_______________________________________________________________________

240. BSAI AMENDMENT 73 AND GOA AMENDMENT 77 FMP TO REVISE MANAGEMENT 
AUTHORITY OF DARK ROCKFISH

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: This amendment would remove dark rockfish (Sebastes ciliatus) 
from the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands (BSAI) and Gulf of Alaska 
(GOA) groundfish fishery management plans (FMPs). The State of Alaska 
would then assume management of dark rockfish in the BSAI and GOA. 
Regulatory amendments are needed to implement these FMP amendments to 
remove dark rockfish from Table 2a of 50 CFR part 679 (FMP species) to 
add dark rockfish to Table 2d of 50 CFR part 679 (non-FMP species). The 
regulations implementing Amendment 73/77 also would revise the 
scientific name and species code for dusky rockfish on Table 2a to 50 
CFR part 679.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/07

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

RIN: 0648-AU20
_______________________________________________________________________

241. AMENDMENT 10 TO THE BOTTOMFISH AND SEAMOUNT GROUNDFISH FISHERY 
MANAGEMENT PLAN: MEASURES TO END BOTTOMFISH OVERFISHING IN THE HAWAIIAN 
ARCHIPELAGO

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: The Pacific Islands Regional Administrator notified the 
Western Pacific Council in May 2005 that the bottomfish species complex 
in the Hawaiian Archipelago is in a state of overfishing. This action 
would amend the fishery management plan to implement measures to end 
overfishing in the bottomfish complex.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/00/08
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/08

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

RIN: 0648-AU22
_______________________________________________________________________

242. AMENDMENT 14 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE SNAPPER-GROUPER 
FISHERY OF THE SOUTH ATLANTIC REGION

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: Amendment 14 would establish a series of 8 Type II Marine 
Protected Areas (MPAs) in Federal waters in the South Atlantic. The 
MPAs range in size from 8 square nautical miles to 150 square nautical 
miles, and would be distributed from North Carolina south to the 
Florida Keys. Within the MPAs, fishing for or retention of species in 
the snapper-grouper management complex would be prohibited, as would 
the use of shark bottom longline fishing gear. Trolling for pelagic 
species such as tuna, dolphin, and mackerel would be allowed within the 
MPAs.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          07/20/06                    71 FR 41207
NPRM                            12/00/07
NPRM Commet Period End          01/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AU28
_______________________________________________________________________

243. AMENDMENT 15 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE SNAPPER-GROUPER 
FISHERY OF THE SOUTH ATLANTIC REGION

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: Amendment 15 would: Establish biological reference points and 
status determination criteria for snowy grouper, black sea bass, and 
red porgy; and establish rebuilding schedules and strategies, where 
needed, for snowy grouper, black sea bass, and red porgy.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/08
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AU29
_______________________________________________________________________

244. AMENDMENT 11 TO THE ATLANTIC SEA SCALLOP FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: Amendment 11 would limit access and control effort in the 
General Category Sector of the scallop fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/07

[[Page 70022]]

NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AU32
_______________________________________________________________________

245. AMENDMENT 15 TO THE SUMMER FLOUNDER, SCUP, AND BLACK SEA BASS 
FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: Amendment 15 would address allocation and other issues in the 
summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass fisheries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AU36
_______________________________________________________________________

246. FRAMEWORK ADJUSTMENT TO THE BYCATCH REDUCTION CRITERION FOR THE 
FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE SHRIMP FISHERY OF THE GULF OF MEXICO

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council (Council) 
developed Amendment 9 to the Shrimp FMP, which established a 
requirement for the use of Bycatch Reduction Devices (BRDs) in the 
shrimp fishery of the western Gulf of Mexico. Amendment 9 also 
established criteria by which BRDs would be tested and certified for 
use in the shrimp fishery of the western Gulf of Mexico. Since that 
time, many changes have occurred in both the directed red snapper 
fishery and the shrimp fishery to affect the fishing mortality 
reduction requirements. Because of changes in the shrimp fishery, 
existing certified BRDs reduce fishing mortality by a lesser amount 
than originally documented, and no new BRDs have been developed for use 
in the shrimp fishery. NMFS is taking this action to modify the 
existing BRD certification criteria. The intent of this change is to 
better address reductions in bycatch of red snapper, and to better 
address National Standard 9 of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery 
Conservation and Management Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AU59
_______________________________________________________________________

247. RESTRICTIONS FOR 2007 PURSE SEINE AND LONGLINE FISHERIES IN THE 
EASTERN TROPICAL PACIFIC OCEAN

Legal Authority: 16 USC 951 to 961; 16 USC 971

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service announces the 2007 
conservation and management measures for international tuna fisheries 
in the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean. The purse seine fishery will be 
closed for 6 weeks and any national longline fishery which reaches a 
catch level for bigeye tuna equal to the 2001 catch levels will also be 
closed. The intended effect of this rule is to establish prohibition of 
U.S. vessels purse seine fishing for tuna in the Inter-American 
Tropical Tuna Commission (IATTC) Convention Area from November 20 to 
December 31 period, and to announce the closure of the U.S. longline 
fishery. This will conform to the IATTC recommendation that was 
approved by the State Department.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/08

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

RIN: 0648-AU79
_______________________________________________________________________

248. INDIVIDUAL FISHING QUOTA PROCESSING RESTRICTION AMENDMENTS

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

Abstract: This action would modify the halibut and sablefish Individual 
Fishing Quota (IFQ) Program regulations to allow: (1) Processing of 
non-IFQ species on a vessel that is otherwise authorized to process 
non-IFQ species when any amount of IFQ halibut resulting from catcher 
vessel quota share (QS) is held by fishermen on board a vessel in the 
Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands and Gulf of Alaska; and (2) processing 
catcher/processor QS on board a vessel on which persons possess catcher 
vessel QS.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/08

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

RIN: 0648-AU85

[[Page 70023]]

_______________________________________________________________________

249. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE COASTAL 
MIGRATORY PELAGIC RESOURCES IN THE GULF OF MEXICO AND SOUTH ATLANTIC 
REGION

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: The regulatory amendment would adjust the trip limits for 
Atlantic migratory group Spanish mackerel to track the new fishing year 
(March 1 to end of February).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AV17
_______________________________________________________________________

250. 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 Plan's (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                            06/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AV31
_______________________________________________________________________

251. 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 for Groundfish of the Bering Sea and Aleutian 
Islands Management Area.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/07

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

RIN: 0648-AV32
_______________________________________________________________________

252. REEF FISH AMENDMENT 30A FOR GREATER AMBERJACK AND GRAY TRIGGERFISH: 
TAC ADJUSTMENTS, MEASURES TO END OVERFISHING AND ESTABLISH SFA 
PARAMETERS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: Greater amberjack are under a rebuilding plan. A 2006 stock 
assessment (SEDAR 9) concluded the stock is not recovering as 
projected. It continues to be overfished and is undergoing overfishing. 
Adjustments to TAC and management measures are needed to end 
overfishing and bring the recovery of the greater amberjack stock back 
into compliance with its 10-year rebuilding time frame. Gray 
triggerfish were determined to be undergoing overfishing based on a 
2006 stock assessment (SEDAR 9). Management measures are necessary to 
end overfishing of gray triggerfish. Additionally, the Council has not 
yet approved post-Sustainable Fisheries Act (SFA) benchmarks and 
reference points for gray triggerfish.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AV34
_______________________________________________________________________

253. SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE 2008 ATLANTIC MACKEREL, SQUID, AND 
BUTTERFISH FISHERIES

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: This action would establish fishery specifications for the 
2008 Atlantic mackerel, squid, and butterfish fisheries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/07

[[Page 70024]]

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AV40
_______________________________________________________________________

254. SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE 2008 SUMMER FLOUNDER, SCUP, AND BLACK SEA 
BASS FISHERIES

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: This action would establish fishery specifications for the 
2008 summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass fisheries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AV41
_______________________________________________________________________

255. SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE 2008-2010 SURFCLAM AND OCEAN QUAHOG 
FISHERIES

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: This action would establish fishery specifications for the 
2008-2010 surfclam and ocean quahog fisheries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AV42
_______________________________________________________________________

256. <bullet<ls-thn-eq> GUIDANCE FOR ANNUAL CATCH LIMITS (ACLS) AND 
ACCOUNTABILITY MEASURES (AMS) TO END OVERFISHING

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 31 in part II of this issue of 
the Federal Register.

RIN: 0648-AV60
_______________________________________________________________________

257. <bullet<ls-thn-eq> RULE TO IMPLEMENT A MINIMUM SIZE LIMIT ON SPINY 
LOBSTER (PANULIRUS ARGUS) IMPORTS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: The United States is a major importer of spiny lobster from 
the Caribbean, importing over 88,000 tons (over 194 million lbs) over 
the past 10 years, worth an estimated $2.27 billion dollars. The United 
States imports over 90 percent of the spiny lobster harvested in 
Brazil, Colombia, Central America and the Caribbean countries. The 
major exporters to the United States are the Bahamas, Brazil, Honduras 
and Nicaragua. All of these exporting countries have some form of 
minimum size requirement, but they are not standardized and enforcement 
is severely lacking. Therefore, NOAA Fisheries Service, in coordination 
with the Caribbean, South Atlantic, and Gulf of Mexico Fishery 
Management Councils, is proposing to place a minimum size limit 
restriction on imports to curtail the flow of undersized lobster 
harvested in foreign countries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          07/26/07                    72 FR 41063
NPRM                            11/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AV61
_______________________________________________________________________

258. <bullet<ls-thn-eq> FMP AMENDMENTS 88, 23,12, AND 9 FOR ALEUTIAN 
ISLANDS HABITAT CONSERVATION AREA REVISION

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: The fishery management plan amendments would revise the 
Aleutian Islands Habitat Conservation Area to ensure bottom trawling is 
prohibited in areas of known coral and sponge habitat and little 
fishing and to allow for fishing in areas historically fished and not 
known to contain coral and sponge habitat. This action is necessary to 
ensure the North Pacific Fishery Management Council's intent for 
protection of sensitive habitat and to allow continued historical 
bottom trawl-fishing is implemented.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/07

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

RIN: 0648-AV62
_______________________________________________________________________

259. <bullet<ls-thn-eq> INDIVIDUAL FISHING QUOTA OMNIBUS V ACTIONS 2 AND 
4: ALLOW LONGLINE POT GEAR IN BERING SEA DURING JUNE; ALLOW MOBILIZED 
MILITARY PERSONNEL TO MAKE TEMPORARY INDIVIDUAL FISHING QUOTA TRANSFERS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: The regulatory action amends existing commercial fishing 
regulations at 50 CFR part 679. The amendment would enhance the 
management of the halibut and sablefish Individual Fishing Quota (IFQ) 
fisheries, as well as the sablefish Community Development Quota (CDQ) 
fishery. In June 2006, the North Pacific Fishery Management Council 
recommended a suite of four amendments to the halibut and sablefish IFQ 
fishery regulations, otherwise known as OMNI V. This proposed action 
addresses Action 2 and Action 4 of the Council's proposed regulatory 
amendments. The action

[[Page 70025]]

would amend regulations to: (1) Allow the use of longline pot gear in 
the Bering Sea sablefish IFQ and CDQ fisheries during the month of 
June; and (2) allow the temporary transfer of IFQ held by mobilized 
reservists and guardsmen.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/07

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

RIN: 0648-AV64
_______________________________________________________________________

260. <bullet<ls-thn-eq> COLLECTION AND USE OF TAX IDENTIFICATION NUMBERS 
FROM APPLICANTS FOR NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE PERMITS

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

Abstract: In conformance with the Debt Collection Improvement Act of 
1996 (DCIA), the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) will issue a 
rule to require that each applicant for a permit, license, endorsement, 
authorization, transfer or like instrument issued by the Agency to 
provide a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) (Employer Identification 
Number for business entities or Social Security Number for individuals) 
and date of incorporation (business) or date of birth (individual), as 
appropriate. Under the DCIA authority, NMFS will collect the TIN from 
any permit/license applicant to determine if such a party has any 
delinquent non-tax debt owed to the Federal Government and inform the 
applicant that issuance of the permit/license is contingent on the 
resolution of such debt. NMFS plans to use date-of-incorporation and 
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 Agency's intended uses of 
the collected TIN information and provisions for ensuring the 
confidentiality of personally identifiable information pursuant to the 
Privacy Act; (b) the effects on an applicant for permit/license 
issuance, renewal, or transfer of not providing the required TIN 
information and when delinquent non-tax debts are owed; (c) the 
agency's procedure for using the TIN to determine, through the Treasury 
Department's Debt Check Program, if a permit applicant owes delinquent 
non-tax debt to the Government pursuant to the DCIA; and (d) the 
Agency's intended communications with the permit/license applicant 
concerning the relationship of such delinquent debts to its permitting 
process and the need to resolve such debts as a basis for completing 
permit/license issuance, renewal, or transfer. The rule will also refer 
to parallel Agency actions to establish: (a) A Policy Directive 
regarding the collection of TIN information from permit/license 
applicants; and (b) a new NMFS Privacy Act System of Records for 
permits and non-permit registrations used in a variety of fisheries 
management programs that will facilitate identifying fishery 
participants and evaluating permit applicant qualifications as well as 
an updated System of Record for protected species related permits 
(issued under the Marine Mammal Protection Act and the Endangered 
Species Act) to include the TIN collection and an additional routine 
use concerning the Treasury Department's Debt Check Program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/07
Final Action                    01/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Samuel Rauch, Deputy Assistant Administor for 
Regulatory Programs, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, Room 14657, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver 
Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2341

RIN: 0648-AV76
_______________________________________________________________________

261. <bullet<ls-thn-eq> GENERAL PROVISIONS FOR DOMESTIC FISHERIES; 
SPECIFICATIONS FOR BOARDING LADDERS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 773 et seq; 16 USC 951 to 961; 16 USC 971 et 
seq; 16 USC 973 to 973r; 16 USC 1801 et seq; 16 USC 2431 et seq; 16 USC 
3636(b); 16 USC 5501 et seq

Abstract: This regulation would require domestic fishing vessels to 
have a U.S. Coast Guard-approved pilot ladder on board as a safer means 
for authorized personnel to board the vessels in carrying out their 
duties under the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management 
Act, the Atlantic Tunas Convention Act and other applicable laws. This 
action is necessary to provide for the safety of personnel boarding 
domestic fishing vessels, as current standards have proven to be 
inadequate. This action would establish a safer and more enforceable 
national standard for ladders used by authorized officers for boarding 
domestic fishing vessels subject to Federal regulation.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/07

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

RIN: 0648-AV78
_______________________________________________________________________

262. <bullet<ls-thn-eq> GULF REEF FISH AMENDMENT 30B

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: Amendment 30B addresses the findings of Gulf of Mexico red 
grouper and gag stock assessments. Red grouper is not undergoing 
overfishing and is not overfished. Gag is undergoing overfishing and 
whether gag are overfished is still being determined. This action 
incorporates both red grouper and gag management measures together, as 
the measures affecting one species invariably affect the other. The 
amendment would

[[Page 70026]]

implement management measures to increase red grouper TAC and to end 
overfishing of gag. The amendment also proposes definitions for gag 
status criteria and reference points. The amendment also examines 
grouper accountability measures, closed fishing areas, and ways to 
reduce discard mortality.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/00/08
NPRM Comment Period End         04/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AV80
_______________________________________________________________________

263. <bullet<ls-thn-eq> FRAMEWORK ADJUSTMENT 19 TO THE ATLANTIC SEA 
SCALLOP FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: Framework Adjustment 19 would implement management measures 
for the Atlantic sea scallop fishery for the 2008 and 2009 fishing 
years, including days-at-sea and sea scallop access area trip 
allocations, general category scallop vessel restrictions, and other 
measures to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the Scallop 
FMP.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AV90
_______________________________________________________________________

264. <bullet<ls-thn-eq> FRAMEWORK ADJUSTMENT 20 TO THE ATLANTIC SEA 
SCALLOP FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: Framework 20 would extend measures implemented by interim 
rule that delayed the opening of the Elephant Trunk Sea Scallop Access 
Area (ETAA) until March 1, 2007, reduced the maximum number of trips 
per vessel in the ETAA from 5 trips to 3, reduced the number of general 
category fleet trips from 1,360 to 865 trips in the ETAA, and 
prohibited the retention of more than 50 U.S. bushels of in-shell 
scallop outside of the boundaries of the sea scallop access areas. 
Framework 20 would extend these measures from December 2007 through 
February 2008.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/30/07                    72 FR 61320
NPRM Comment Period End         11/14/07
Final Action                    01/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AV91
_______________________________________________________________________

265. <bullet<ls-thn-eq> VESSEL INCENTIVE PROGRAM (VIP) REPEAL

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: This regulatory amendment would repeal regulations that 
authorize a Vessel Incentive Program (VIP) to reduce bycatch rates of 
halibut and red king crab in trawl fisheries of the Bering Sea and 
Aleutian Islands and Gulf of Alaska.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/07

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

RIN: 0648-AV96
_______________________________________________________________________

266. <bullet<ls-thn-eq> REVISE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN (FMP) FOR REEF 
FISH OF PUERTO RICO AND U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS AND FMP FOR SPINY LOBSTER 
FISHERY OF PUERTO RICO AND U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: Many species of fish in the reef fish fishery in Puerto Rico 
and the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) are believed to be overexploited, 
largely due to unrestricted trap fishing. Landings from the trap 
fishery have seen a continuous decrease since 1990 in Puerto Rico 
(e.g., Matos-Caraballo, See Section 2.1) and a change in species 
composition and size of fish landed over the last 10 years. This effect 
has been attributed to excess trap fishing effort, the lack of 
compliance with regard to trap construction (i.e., fishers often do not 
used the required biodegradable fasteners on trap doors), use of other 
gears by commercial fishers, and the lack of escape panels in traps 
which would allow smaller fishes to escape, resulting in high mortality 
of juveniles and a loss of long-term potential yield.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AV98
_______________________________________________________________________

267. <bullet<ls-thn-eq> AMENDMENT 89 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN TO 
BERING SEA; BERING SEA HABITAT CONSERVATION MEASURES

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: This regulatory amendment would implement Amendment 89 to

[[Page 70027]]

the Fishery Management Plan for Groundfish of the Bering Sea and 
Aleutian Islands Management Area. The regulations would prohibit 
nonpelagic trawling in certain areas of the Bering Sea subarea to 
protect bottom habitat and certain nearshore bottom habitat areas that 
provide subsistence resources. The amendment also would provide for a 
Northern Bering Sea research area where the effects of nonpelagic 
trawling may be studied.
The cost to the regulated community is limited to an average of 
$330,000 annually based on the closure of the Northern Bering Sea 
research area. Other closures under this action are not anticipated to 
result in lost revenue because the closures are located in areas not 
currently fished, or the closure areas are small enough that the 
industry is likely to be able to recover any potential lost revenue by 
shifting fishing into other locations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/07

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

RIN: 0648-AW06
_______________________________________________________________________

268. <bullet<ls-thn-eq> DESIGNATION OF CRITICAL HABITAT FOR THE 
ENDANGERED U.S. DISTINCT POPULATION SEGMENT (DPS) OF 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                            02/00/08
NPRM Comment Period End         04/00/08

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: shelley.norton@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AV74
_______________________________________________________________________

269. <bullet<ls-thn-eq> 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 Endangered Species Act (ESA), the 
Secretary of Commerce (Secretary) is required to adopt such regulations 
as he deems necessary and advisable for the conservation of species 
listed as threatened. This proposed ESA 4(d) rule represents the 
regulations that the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) believes 
necessary and advisable to conserve the threatened Southern Distinct 
Population Segment of North American green sturgeon (Southern DPS of 
green sturgeon). NMFS proposes to apply the prohibitions listed under 
ESA sections 9(a)(1)(A) and 9(a)(1)(D) through 9(a)(1)(G) for the 
Southern DPS of green sturgeon and to apply ESA section 9(a)(1)(B) and 
9(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. NMFS also 
describes exceptions to the take prohibitions for activities conducted 
in a way that NMFS deems adequate to protect or conserve the Southern 
DPS. In addition, NMFS is announcing the availability of an 
environmental assessment (EA) that analyzes the impacts of promulgating 
these 4(d) regulations for the Southern DPS of green sturgeon. NMFS 
solicits comments regarding the draft EA and this proposed ruling.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Lisa Manning, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic 
and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, 
MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-1401
Email: lisa.manning@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AV94

[[Page 70028]]

_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC)                           Final Rule Stage
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
_______________________________________________________________________

270. REQUIRE MANDATORY OBSERVER COVERAGE IN THE AT-SEA PROCESSING SECTOR 
OF THE WHITING FISHERY

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: This action amends the regulations implementing the Pacific 
Coast Groundfish Fishery Management Plan to provide for a mandatory, 
vessel-financed observer program on at-sea processing vessels.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/10/03                    68 FR 53334
NPRM Comment Period End         10/10/03
Interim Final Rule              06/07/04                    69 FR 31751
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      07/07/04
Final Action                    11/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: D. Robert Lohn, 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

RIN: 0648-AK26
_______________________________________________________________________

271. EXPANSION OF THE PACIFIC COAST GROUNDFISH FISHERY VESSEL MONITORING 
SYSTEM TO THE OPEN ACCESS FISHERY

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1851, sec 301

Abstract: This action expands the current vessel monitoring system 
(VMS) program by requiring all vessels fishing pursuant to the harvest 
guidelines, quotas, and other management measures governing the open 
access groundfish fishery to provide declaration reports and to 
activate and use a VMS transceiver while fishing off the coasts of 
Washington, Oregon, and California. Any commercial fishing vessel that 
is not registered to a limited entry groundfish permit and that is used 
to take and retain groundfish in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) (3-
200 nm from shore) that possess groundfish while transiting the EEZ, or 
that lands groundfish taken in the EEZ is considered to be 
participating in the open access groundfish fishery. Vessel using non-
groundfish trawl gear to fish in the EEZ will be included, whether or 
not groundfish is retained, for the purpose of monitoring vessel 
activity in relation to essential fish habitat.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/08/07                    72 FR 44469
NPRM Comment Period End         09/07/07
Final Action                    11/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: D. Robert Lohn, 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

RIN: 0648-AU08
_______________________________________________________________________

272. FRAMEWORK 4 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR MONKFISH

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: This framework adjustment would establish target TACs of 
5,000 mt and 5,100 mt for the Northern Fishery Management Area (NFMA) 
and Southern Fishery Management Area (SFMA), respectively, for the 
final 3 years of the rebuilding plan (FY 2007-FY 2009), unless 
otherwise modified by the Monkfish Monitoring Committee(MFMC) during 
their annual review process. Essentially, this framework adjustment 
would remove the Framework 2 control rule and replace it with target 
TACs that were developed based upon an analysis conducted by the 
Monkfish Plan Development Team (PDT). This framework would also 
implement monkfish Days-at-Sea requirements for vessels fishing in the 
NFMA, and addresses other minor issues raised by industry.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/20/07                    72 FR 13069
NPRM Comment Period End         04/19/07
Interim Final Rule              04/27/07                    72 FR 20952
Interim Final Rule              09/21/07                    72 FR 53942
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      10/22/07
Final Rule                      05/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AU34
_______________________________________________________________________

273. AMENDMENT 85 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE GROUNDFISH OF 
THE BERING SEA AND ALEUTIAN ISLANDS (BSAI) MANAGEMENT AREA; PACIFIC COD 
ALLOCATIONS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: This rulemaking would modify the current Bering Sea and 
Aleutian Island (BSAI) Pacific cod allocations among the jig, trawl, 
hook-and-line, and pot gear sectors. The current harvest patterns vary 
significantly from sector allocations that have been in place since 
1997. This action is necessary to establish allocations that better 
reflect actual use by sector, while considering socioeconomic and 
community factors.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NOA                             12/07/06                    71 FR 70943
NOA Comment Period End          02/05/07
NPRM                            02/07/07                     72 FR 5654
NPRM Comment Period End         03/26/07
Final Action                    11/00/07

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

RIN: 0648-AU48

[[Page 70029]]

_______________________________________________________________________

274. AMENDMENT 15 TO THE PACIFIC COAST SALMON FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: Amendment 15 to the Pacific Coast Salmon Fishery Management 
Plan (FMP) would implement provisions that provide de minimis fishing 
opportunity during periods when the status of Klamath River fall 
Chinook is such that no fishing opportunities would be allowed under 
the current FMP without use of the emergency rule process, as was 
necessary for the 2006 salmon season. The conservation objective for 
Klamath River fall Chinook, which includes an annual natural spawning 
escapement floor of 35,000 adults, with respect to determining when 
stock status would trigger a Conservation Alert or an Overfishing 
Concern, will not change.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/20/06                    71 FR 76270
NPRM Comment Period End         02/20/07
Final Action                    02/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: D. Robert Lohn, 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

RIN: 0648-AU69
_______________________________________________________________________

275. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES; ATLANTIC SHARK MANAGEMENT 
MEASURES 2007

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: This rule would reevaluate the management measures for large 
coastal sharks (LCS) and pelagic sharks based on the 2005/2006 LCS 
stock assessment, the 2006 dusky shark stock assessment, and the 
Canadian 2005 porbeagle shark stock assessment. This rulemaking could 
consider, among other things, changes to existing rebuilding plans for 
overfished species, commercial quotas and trip limits, recreational 
minimum size and bag limits, and the public display quota. In addition, 
this rule would likely reevaluate the Mid-Atlantic shark closure and 
its role in the rebuilding plan for LCS. This action is necessary in 
light of recent stock assessments, which have determined that dusky and 
sandbar sharks are overfished with overfishing occurring, the status is 
unknown for the Atlantic blacktip shark population, and porbeagle 
sharks are likely overfished. In addition, the 2005/2006 LCS stock 
assessment determined it is inappropriate to assess the LCS complex as 
a whole, which has been the basis of managing these species since 1993.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/03/07                    72 FR 56330
NPRM Comment Period End         10/10/07
Final Action                    12/00/07

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

RIN: 0648-AU89
_______________________________________________________________________

276. VESSEL MONITORING SYSTEM REVISION FOR BERING SEA AND ALEUTIAN 
ISLANDS (BSAI) AND GULF OF ALASKA (GOA) FISHERIES

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: The regulatory amendment is necessary to clarify the 
requirements for vessel monitoring systems (VMS) for vessels operating 
in the fisheries of the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands management area 
and Gulf of Alaska. The revision would require all federally permitted 
vessels to operate a VMS when the fishery is open for which the vessel 
is endorsed. In addition, the revision would require all federally 
permitted vessels to operate a VMS in State of Alaska waters when VMS 
operation is also required in Federal waters.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/19/07                    72 FR 33732
NPRM Comment Period End         07/19/07
NPRM Comment Period Extended    09/04/07
Final Action                    11/00/07

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

RIN: 0648-AU93
_______________________________________________________________________

277. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES; NORTH AND SOUTH ATLANTIC 
SWORDFISH COMMERCIAL MANAGEMENT MEASURES

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

Abstract: This rule will modify the 2006 fishing season quotas for 
North and South Atlantic Swordfish based on recent updated landings 
information. This action will also establish initial North and South 
Atlantic quotas and seasons for 2007, and will implement 
recommendations from the 2006 meeting of the International Commission 
for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT). This proposed rule is 
necessary to ensure that current swordfish quotas account for 
underharvests from the 2005 fishing year, consistent with regulations 
at 50 CFR part 635, and implement ICCAT recommendations that establish 
the U.S. North and South Atlantic swordfish allocations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/18/07                    72 FR 33436
NPRM Comment Period End         07/18/07
Final Action                    11/00/07
Final Action Effective          12/00/07

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

RIN: 0648-AV10
_______________________________________________________________________

278. ALASKA GROUNDFISH FISHERIES SEABIRD AVOIDANCE MEASURES

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

[[Page 70030]]

Abstract: This regulatory amendment would revise Alaska groundfish 
fisheries regulations affecting seabird avoidance gear standards to 
hook-and-line vessels operating in the Exclusive Economic Zone and 
portions of inside waters where birds of concern occur. The revision 
would remove seabird avoidance gear requirements in portions of inside 
waters where birds of concern do not occur. A weather safety exemption 
would be added to the regulations for small vessels, and the Seabird 
Avoidance Plan requirement would be deleted because it was found to be 
an unnecessary measure to ensure the proper use of seabird avoidance 
gear.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/19/07                    72 FR 53516
NPRM Comment Period End         10/19/07
Final Action                    12/00/07

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

RIN: 0648-AV38
_______________________________________________________________________

279. REEF FISH REGULATORY AMENDMENT FOR VERMILION SNAPPER TO REVISE 
MANAGEMENT MEASURES

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: The purpose of the regulatory amendment is to revise 
management measures implemented through Amendment 23 to the Fishery 
Management Plan for the Reef Fish Fishery of the Gulf of Mexico. These 
management measures need to be revised because a recent stock 
assessment resulted in a change of stock status to ``not overfished'' 
or ``undergoing overfishing.'' The regulatory amendment contains two 
management alternatives. Alternative 1 is the no action alternative and 
would maintain the regulations implemented by Amendment 23. Preferred 
Alternative 2 reverses management measures originally implemented by 
Amendment 23. Specifically, the actions in Preferred Alternative 2 
include: Reducing the recreational and commercial minimum size limit 
from 11 to 10 inches total length; ending the April 22-May 31 
commercial seasonal closure; eliminating the 10-fish bag limit for 
vermilion snapper; and retaining vermilion snapper in the current 20-
fish aggregate bag limit for those reef fish species without species to 
specific bag limits.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/22/07                    72 FR 20980
Final Rule                      11/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AV45
_______________________________________________________________________

280. <bullet<ls-thn-eq> RULE TO REVISE THE GULF OF MEXICO (GULF) REEF 
FISH VESSEL MONITORING SYSTEM (VMS) REPORTING REQUIREMENTS, POWER-DOWN 
EXEMPTION, AND RED SNAPPER INDIVIDUAL FISHING QUOTA (IFQ) 3-HOUR 
NOTIFICATION

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: This action would revise NOAA Fisheries Service requirements 
applicable to the commercial reef fish fishery in the Gulf and to 
incorporate a minor revision to the 3-hour notification requirement in 
the Gulf red snapper IFQ program. Because some VMS units draw more 
power than anticipated, an unintended consequence of this action is 
that a vessel's battery can be drained while in port and not fishing, 
unless hooked up to an external power source. To alleviate this 
problem, NOAA Fisheries Service is proposing an in-port exemption 
allowing a VMS unit to send a position report once every four hours, 
rather than every hour. This would reduce the power requirements of the 
VMS unit and allow other important safety equipment (e.g., bilge pumps) 
on a vessel to operate. In addition, this problem would also be 
addressed by adding ``in port'' as a qualifier for the power-down 
exemption should a vessel be inactive for 72 consecutive hours or more. 
Thus the proposed rule would revise current regulations to reflect 
revisions made in the NOAA Office of Law Enforcement's Vessel 
Monitoring System Requirements document to address this vessel power 
issue. The rule would clarify the requirements of VMS in the reef fish 
fishery. This includes requirements for owners/operators of qualified 
vessels to apply for and obtain a VMS power-down exemption and add a 
grandfather clause to address VMS units approved for use in the Gulf 
reef fish fishery. The rule would also expand the allowable methods for 
communicating the 3-hour advance notification of landing in the IFQ 
program. Currently, the 3-hour notification can only be conducted by 
phone, which has proven to be impracticable in some cases.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/06/07                    72 FR 43583
NPRM Comment Period End         08/21/07
Final Action                    11/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: roy.crabtree@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AV59
_______________________________________________________________________

281. <bullet<ls-thn-eq> 2008 SUMMER FLOUNDER RECREATIONAL COASTWIDE 
MEASURE

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: This rule establishes the default coastwide recreational 
summer flounder management measures (i.e., minimum fish size, 
possession limit, season) that will be in place on January 1, 2008, and 
will remain effective until replaced in late spring/early summer by 
measures based on the updated 2007 assessment.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/28/07                    72 FR 55166
NPRM Comment Period End         10/15/07
Final Action                    12/00/07

[[Page 70031]]

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AV99
_______________________________________________________________________

282. 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                    11/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Tanya Dobrzynski, Marine Resource Manager, Office of 
Protected Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2289

RIN: 0648-AH26
_______________________________________________________________________

283. TAKING OF MARINE MAMMALS INCIDENTAL TO COMMERCIAL FISHING 
OPERATIONS; ATLANTIC LARGE WHALE TAKE REDUCTION PLAN REGULATIONS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

Abstract: This action would implement modifications of the Atlantic 
Large Whale Take Reduction Plan (ALWTRP). The ALWTRP was developed 
pursuant to section 118 of the Marine Mammal Protection Act. The 
commercial fishery requirements provided in this rule are intended to 
implement the additional requirements recommended by the Atlantic Large 
Whale Take Reduction Team and NMFS.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/21/05                    70 FR 35894
Comment Period Extended         07/13/05                    70 FR 40301
NPRM Comment Period End         07/21/05
Final Action                    11/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AS01
_______________________________________________________________________

284. RIGHT WHALE SHIP STRIKE REDUCTION

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 32 in part II of this issue of 
the Federal Register.

RIN: 0648-AS36
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Completed Actions
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
_______________________________________________________________________

285. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO ADJUST PERMIT RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS AND 
TRANSFERABILITY RESTRICTIONS IN NWHI'S HOOMALU ZONE AND MAU LIMITED 
ACCESS PROGRAMS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: This regulatory amendment under the Bottomfish Fishery 
Management Plan would remove annual landings requirement for permit 
renewal, revise permit transferability restrictions, establish permit 
eligibility for the Mau Zone, and establish a mechanism to facilitate 
permits through a community development program in the Northwestern 
Hawaiian Islands bottomfish limited access programs.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       10/05/07

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

RIN: 0648-AQ20
_______________________________________________________________________

286. AMENDMENT 1 TO THE ATLANTIC HERRING FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: This action would implement a limited access program, 
implement management measures to management area 1A, and make other 
adjustments to the Atlantic Herring Fishery Management Plan.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          09/06/06                    71 FR 52521
NPRM                            09/27/06                    71 FR 56446
Comment Period End              11/06/06
NPRM Comment Period End         11/13/06
Final Rule                      06/01/07                    72 FR 11252

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AQ87

[[Page 70032]]

_______________________________________________________________________

287. AMENDMENT 14 TO THE SUMMER FLOUNDER, SCUP, AND BLACK SEA BASS 
FISHERY

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: Amendment 14 to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass 
Fishery Management would establish a rebuilding plan for scup.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/24/07                    72 FR 20344
NPRM Comment Period End         05/24/07
Final Action                    07/23/07                    72 FR 40077

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AS22
_______________________________________________________________________

288. AMENDMENT TO REGULATIONS IMPLEMENTING THE ANTARCTIC MARINE LIVING 
RESOURCES CONVENTION ACT OF 1984

Legal Authority: 16 USC 2431 et seq

Abstract: This amendment to regulations for Antarctic Marine Living 
Resources (AMLR) implements measures agreed to by the parties to the 
Convention on the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources 
(CCAMLR). More specifically, it would require the use of the 
centralized satellite-linked vessel monitoring system (VMS) by all U.S. 
vessels harvesting AMLR and would be a condition of export for all 
dealers seeking to import shipments of toothfish. It would also exempt 
all shipments of fresh toothfish from the National Marine Fisheries 
Service preapproval process and allow importers of frozen toothfish to 
submit the U.S. Customs 7501 entry number subsequent to their initial 
application for preapproval. The rule would require the use of 
Electronic Catch Documents, after a 60-day transition period, for all 
U.S. dealers seeking to import shipments of toothfish into the United 
States. The rule would also amend certain definitions including 
``import'' and ``export.'' Use of a seal excluder device would be 
required on krill vessels using trawl gear in CCAMLR waters. 
Regulations governing scientific observers and vessel information would 
be modified.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/13/06                    71 FR 39642
NPRM Comment Period End         08/14/06
Final Action                    08/23/07                    72 FR 48496

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

RIN: 0648-AS75
_______________________________________________________________________

289. FRAMEWORK 1 TO THE SURFCLAM AND OCEAN QUAHOG FISHERY MANAGEMENT 
PLAN

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: Framework adjustment 1 to the Atlantic Surfclam and Ocean 
Quahog FMP requires the use of a vessel monitoring system (VMS) for 
vessels participating in the surfclam and ocean quahog fishery. The VMS 
requirement replaces the current telephone-based notification 
requirement necessary prior to departure on a surfclam or ocean quahog 
fishing trip and facilitates monitoring of closed areas and State/
Federal jurisdictional boundaries. The intent of this action is to 
implement management measures that will improve the management and 
enforcement of regulations governing the Atlantic surfclam and ocean 
quahog fishery in the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/05/07                     72 FR 9719
NPRM Comment Period End         04/04/07
Final Action                    09/11/07                    72 FR 51699

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AT62
_______________________________________________________________________

290. AMENDMENT 84-A TO THE FMP FOR THE GROUNDFISH FISHERY OF THE BERING 
SEA AND ALEUTIAN ISLANDS MANAGEMENT AREA IMPLEMENTING SALMON BYCATCH 
MEASURES

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: This rule would exempt Pollock and CDQ vessels that 
participate in a voluntary rolling hotspot closure system (VRHS) from 
chum and Chinook salmon savings area closures. The VRHS utilizes 
inseason data and a private contractor to determine and avoid high 
salmon bycatch areas. The VRHS encourages salmon bycatch reduction 
through internal enforcement of a civil agreement between cooperatives 
and third party groups. This rulemaking would also exempt vessels 
participating in the trawl cod and/or flatfish targets from closures of 
the chum salmon savings area.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/18/07                    72 FR 19454
NPRM Comment Period End         06/04/07
Final Action                    10/29/07                    72 FR 61070

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

RIN: 0648-AU03
_______________________________________________________________________

291. OBSERVER HEALTH AND SAFETY

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq; 5 USC 561

Abstract: This rule would enhance the safety of observers and the 
efficiency of their deployment. These amendments would clarify 
prohibited actions regarding observers, reinforce that an observer may 
not be deployed nor stay aboard an unsafe vessel, clarify when a 
fishing vessel is inadequate for observer deployment and how an owner 
or operator can resolve

[[Page 70033]]

discrepancies, improve communications between observer programs and 
fishing vessel owners and operators, and provide for a National Marine 
Fisheries Service alternate safety equipment examination of certain 
small fishing vessels.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/30/07                     72 FR 4226
NPRM Comment Period End         03/01/07
Final Action                    11/01/07                    72 FR 61815

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Bonnie Ponwith, Acting Director, Office of Science and 
Technology, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 1315 East-West 
Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2367

RIN: 0648-AU46
_______________________________________________________________________

292. RECONCILIATION OF STATE AND FEDERAL COMMERCIAL FISHING VESSEL 
PERMIT PROGRAMS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: This action would implement a limit to the amount of days 
that a federally-permitted commercial fishing vessel can fish. 
Although, in the case of the Northeast (NE) multispecies fisheries, it 
is estimated that less than 5 percent of vessels are currently 
exploiting what amounts to a regulatory loophole, fishing part of the 
permit year exclusively under State regulations and then later renewing 
their Federal permit, their impact to fishing mortality objectives 
could potentially be significant especially as reductions in DAS 
continue in New England. This action is needed to address the 
aforementioned situation, that is exploited by a small number of 
people, before others begin to regard this as an advantage that should 
be utilized to stay competitive. The purpose of this action is to 
remove an unintended consequence of having a Federal permit renewal 
system that effectively allows for a temporary relinquishment of a 
Federal limited access permit. This action would reinforce commercial 
fishing vessel permit renewal procedures currently practiced by over 90 
percent of all limited access permit holders. Furthermore, this action 
may facilitate the development of corresponding State permit 
regulations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/06/07                    72 FR 17085
Final Action                    08/03/07                    72 FR 43188

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AU51
_______________________________________________________________________

293. RECREATIONAL SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE 2007 SUMMER FLOUNDER, SCUP, AND 
BLACK SEA BASS FISHERIES

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: This action implements recreational management measures for 
the summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass fisheries for 2007.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/15/07                    72 FR 12158
NPRM Comment Period End         03/30/07
Final Action                    06/01/07                    72 FR 30492

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AU60
_______________________________________________________________________

294. AMENDMENT 80 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR GROUNDFISH OF THE 
BERING SEA AND ALEUTIAN ISLANDS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: Amendment 80 would provide specific groundfish allocations to 
the non-AFA trawl catcher/processor sector and allow the formation of 
fishing cooperatives within the sector. Sector allocations and 
associated cooperatives would allow participants to focus less on 
harvest maximization and more on optimizing their harvest. This in turn 
could allow reduction of incidental catch, improve retention, and 
improve utilization, while still improving the economic health of the 
harvesting and processing, all of which address the problem statement 
for Amendment 80. Additional monitoring and enforcement provisions will 
ensure that the allocations are properly accounted. The costs of these 
monitoring provisions would be less than the benefits from improved 
economic efficiency.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          04/30/07                    72 FR 21198
NPRM                            05/30/07                    72 FR 30052
NPRM Comment Period End         06/29/07
Final Action                    09/14/07                    72 FR 52668

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

RIN: 0648-AU68
_______________________________________________________________________

295. ATLANTIC HAGFISH COLLECTION OF INFORMATION REQUIREMENTS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: This rule will implement changes to the Northeast fishery 
regulations, at 50 CFR part 648, to require that any vessel owner/
operator who intends to fish for, catch, and/or land hagfish in or from 
the exclusive economic zone be required to take an observer on board 
their vessel when requested to do so, and requires dealers who purchase 
hagfish to obtain a permit and report on their hagfish purchases.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/01/06                    71 FR 64214
NPRM Comment Period End         12/01/06
Final Rule                      04/23/07                    72 FR 20036

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of

[[Page 70034]]

Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, One 
Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AU80
_______________________________________________________________________

296. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO REVISE ELECTRONIC REPORTING SOFTWARE AND 
HARDWARE REQUIREMENTS OF THE OBSERVER COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM (OCS)

Legal Authority: 16 USC 773 to 773k; 16 USC 1801; 16 USC 3631

Abstract: This regulatory action is necessary to revise regulations at 
section 679.50(g)(1) and section 679.50(g)(2), which describe vessel 
and shoreside processor minimum software and hardware requirements for 
the Observer Communications System (OCS). The OCS consists of custom 
software and communications equipment that groundfish observers use to 
enter data collected in the course of their duties and communicate this 
data by satellite link to observer program staff. Additionally, the OCS 
is capable of sending text messages and observer program staff uses 
this function to provide support to observers while in the field. Since 
its implementation, OCS requirements have been periodically upgraded 
through proposed and final rulemaking. These upgrades have been 
necessary as commercially available software becomes obsolete or 
unsupported by its manufacturer, or NMFS must upgrade the software 
component of the OCS to increase the overall data quality and 
efficiency of the OCS system. Rather than propose upgrades to specific 
hardware and software components necessary to support new OCS software, 
we propose to remove these specific requirements, and replace them with 
a requirement that each catcher vessel, catcher/processor, mothership, 
and shoreside or stationary floating processor already subject to OCS 
requirements provide hardware and software that is fully functional and 
operational with the NMFS supplied software.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/29/07                    72 FR 14764
NPRM Comment Period End         04/27/07
Final Rule                      07/06/07                    72 FR 36896

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

RIN: 0648-AV13
_______________________________________________________________________

297. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES (HMS); SEA TURTLE HANDLING GEAR; 
ATLANTIC BLUEFIN TUNA RETENTION LIMITS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: This rule would make mandatory the possession and use of 
additional sea turtle handling gear to facilitate dehooking of sea 
turtles (endangered or threatened depending on species) caught 
incidentally in pelagic or bottom longline gear for Atlantic HMS. The 
benefit of this action is to maximize safe and efficient gear removal 
from incidentally captured sea turtles, minimizing the potential for 
serious injury or mortality potential from remaining gear.
This rule would also modify the retention limit for Atlantic bluefin 
tuna (BFT) taken incidental to fishing for other species while in the 
Northeast Distant gear restricted area. The intent of this change would 
be to simplify the management regime by implementing consistent 
regulations among management areas.
The measures in this action are consistent with the BFT rebuilding plan 
and with the HMS Fishery Management Plan. This action is not 
significant under the meaning of E.O. 12866 since it is below the 
economic threshold of impact and has no novel policy issues associated 
with it.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       10/18/07

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

RIN: 0648-AV16
_______________________________________________________________________

298. 2007 GEORGES BANK COD FIXED GEAR SECTOR OPERATIONS PLAN AND TAC 
ALLOCATION

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: Framework Adjustment 42 to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery 
Management Plan approved creation of the Georges Bank Cod Fixed Gear 
Sector (Fixed Gear Sector) in 2006, and created a process wherein the 
Sector is required to submit an annual operations plan in order to be 
approved to operate in a specific manner during a specific fishing 
year, and be allocated a total allowable catch (TAC) of Georges Bank 
cod for a fishing year. This proposed rule would not implement 
regulations, but would solicit public comment on the proposed 
management measures under which the sector would operate during fishing 
year 2007, and propose a specific 2007 Georges Bank cod TAC. The 
Fishery Management Plan authorizes the Regional Administrator (NER) to 
approve the proposed operations plan after soliciting public comment 
through publication of a proposed rule in the Federal Register.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/16/07                    72 FR 18937
Final Rule                      05/10/07                    72 FR 26325

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AV22
_______________________________________________________________________

299. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES (HMS); TEMPORARY SUSPENSION OF 
REQUIREMENT TO USE CIRCLE HOOKS IN ATLANTIC BILLFISH TOURNAMENTS

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801et seq

Abstract: This rule would temporarily suspend regulations finalized in 
the Final Highly Migratory Species (HMS) Consolidated Fishery 
Management Plan (October 2, 2006; 71 FR 58058) that limits all HMS 
permitted vessels

[[Page 70035]]

participating in Atlantic billfish tournaments to deploying only non-
offset circle hooks when using natural baits or natural bait/artificial 
lure combinations. The rule was effective January 1, 2007. The purpose 
of this rule--to temporarily suspend the requirement to use circle 
hooks in Atlantic billfish tournaments--is to provide an additional 
fishing season for recreational anglers to become more familiar with 
circle hooks. This action is not significant under the meaning of EO 
12866 since it is below the economic threshold of impact and has no 
novel policy issues associated with it.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/15/07                    72 FR 12154
NPRM Comment Period End         03/30/07
Final Action                    05/11/07                    72 FR 26735

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

RIN: 0648-AV25
_______________________________________________________________________

300. AMENDMENT 13; RULE TO PERMANENTLY PROVIDE FOR INDUSTRY-FUNDED 
OBSERVER COVERAGE IN THE ATLANTIC SEA SCALLOP FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: The purpose of this rulemaking is to permanently implement 
the observer service provider mechanism first implemented by emergency 
action in June 2006.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/06/07                    72 FR 17076
Final Rule                      06/13/07                    72 FR 32549

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AV39
_______________________________________________________________________

301. AMENDMENT 7 TO THE SUMMER FLOUNDER, SCUP, AND BLACK SEA BASS 
FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Duplicate of AV21               07/28/07

RIN: 0648-AV43
_______________________________________________________________________

302. PACIFIC COAST GROUNDFISH FISHERY; ESTABLISH CATCH ACCOUNTING 
REQUIREMENTS FOR PROCESSORS/FIRST RECEIVERS PARTICIPATING IN THE PACIFIC 
WHITING SHORESIDE FISHERY

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: The rulemaking is to establish catch accounting requirements 
for persons who receive, buy, or accept Pacific whiting (whiting) 
deliveries of 4,000 pounds (lb) or more from vessels using mid-water 
trawl gear during the primary whiting season. The action would improve 
NMFS's ability to effectively monitor the whiting fishery such that 
catch of whiting and incidentally caught species, including overfished 
groundfish species, do not result in a species' optimum yield (OY), 
harvest guideline, allocations, or bycatch limits being exceeded. The 
action would also provide for timely reporting of Chinook salmon take 
as specified in the Endangered Species Act, section 7 Biological 
Opinion for Chinook Salmon Catch in the Pacific Groundfish Fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/09/07                    72 FR 17469
NPRM Comment Period End         04/24/07
NPRM Comment Period Extended to 
5/14/2007                       04/27/07                    72 FR 20980
Final Action                    09/05/07                    72 FR 50906

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Becky Renko, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic 
and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way NE., Seattle, WA 
98115
Phone: 206 526-6140
Fax: 206 526-6736
Email: becky.renko@noaa.gov

RIN: 0648-AV46
_______________________________________________________________________

303. PACIFIC HALIBUT FISHERIES; GUIDED SPORT CHARTER VESSEL FISHERY FOR 
HALIBUT

Legal Authority: 16 USC 773 et seq

Abstract: NMFS proposes regulations that would restrict the harvest of 
halibut by persons fishing on a guided sport charter vessel in 
international Pacific Halibut Commission Regulatory Area 2C. The 
current sport-fishing catch or bag limit of two halibut per day is 
proposed to be changed for a person sport-fishing on a charter vessel 
in Area 2C to require that at least one of the two fish taken in a day 
be no more than 32 inches in length. This proposed regulatory change is 
necessary to reduce the halibut harvest in the charter vessel sector 
while minimizing negative impacts on this sector, its sport fishing 
clients, and the coastal communities that serve as home ports for the 
fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/06/07                    72 FR 17071
NPRM Comment Period End         04/23/07
Final Action                    06/04/07                    72 FR 30714

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

RIN: 0648-AV47
_______________________________________________________________________

304. <bullet<ls-thn-eq> 2007 PACIFIC WHITING HARVEST SPECIFICATIONS AND 
IN-SEASON ADJUSTMENTS TO GROUNDFISH MANAGEMENT MEASURES

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

Abstract: This action would implement the 2007 Pacific Whiting 
Acceptable Biological Catch (ABC) and Optimum Yield (OY) for the U.S. 
West Coast Exclusive Economic Zone. A proposed range of Pacific whiting 
ABC/OY was published as part of the 2007-2008 West Coast groundfish 
harvest specifications and management measures package (71 FR 57764, 
September 29, 2006.) At its March 2007 meeting, the Pacific Fishery 
Management Council reviewed the

[[Page 70036]]

Pacific whiting stock assessment for 2007 and made its final 
recommendations for the 2007 ABC/OY. NMFS is finalizing that 
recommendation through this action, which amends Table 1a to 50 CFR 
660, subpart G to implement a 2007 U.S. ABC of 452,196 mt, and a 2007 
U.S. OY of 242,591 mt.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Specs Split From 16-4     04/18/07                    72 FR 19390

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: D. Robert Lohn, 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

RIN: 0648-AV52
_______________________________________________________________________

305. <bullet<ls-thn-eq> RESTRICT ENTRY TO THE PACIFIC WHITING PRIMARY 
FISHERY IN 2007 IN THE PACIFIC COAST GROUNDFISH FISHERY

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

Abstract: Prohibition of new entry to the directed whiting fishery is 
critical to ensuring that there will not be serious conservation and 
management problems in the fishery in 2007. New entry to the fishery 
would likely lead to a ``race for fish'' with excessive bycatch of 
overfished rockfish and endangered and threatened salmonids as well as 
serious disruption of established other groundfish fishery sectors. 
Several species of rockfish are overfished, and there are very low 
incidental catch limits on them in the whiting fishery; if the limit is 
reached for any such species, all whiting fishing must cease. If there 
is excessive catch, then further restraints must be imposed on other 
groundfish fishing sectors, which are already under major economic 
stress. New entry to the whiting fishery would lead to more fishing 
early in the season, when salmonid interception rates are much higher, 
so that the limit on salmon catch would likely be exceeded as well. 
Therefore, it is necessary to prohibit new entry in 2007 while the 
Pacific Fishery Management Council completes an amendment to its 
Groundfish Fishery Management Plan to resolve the long-term capacity 
issue for the whiting fishery. The action will maintain the status quo, 
resulting in a healthier whiting fishery, no excessive bycatch, and no 
further restriction of other groundfish sectors. No vessels that 
participated in the fishery prior to 2007 will be forced out of the 
fishery, and only one vessel that made investments in 2006 for 
prospective entry to the fishery in 2007 will be restricted; for this 
party, there is a special provision to allow recapture of much if not 
all of that investment if desired. Most coastal interests (including 
the States) supported this action. There are no administrative or 
management costs to this action.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      05/17/07                    72 FR 27759

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

RIN: 0648-AV57
_______________________________________________________________________

306. AMENDMENT 15 TO THE PACIFIC COAST SALMON FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN DE 
MINIMIS FISHING OPPORTUNITY FOR KLAMATH RIVER FALL RUN CHINOOK SALMON

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Duplicate of 0648-AU69          02/08/07

RIN: 0648-AV07
_______________________________________________________________________

307. RULE AMENDING GILLNET MANAGEMENT MEASURES TO PROTECT RIGHT WHALES 
IN THE SOUTHEAST U.S. CALVING HABITAT

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

Abstract: With this action, NMFS issues a rule to revise regulations 
implementing the Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Plan (ALWTRP) by 
expanding the Southeast U.S. Restricted Area to include waters within 
35 nautical miles of the South Carolina coast; dividing the Southeast 
U.S. Restricted Area into Southeast U.S. Areas North and South; and 
modifying regulations pertaining to gillnetting within the Southeast 
U.S. Restricted Area. NMFS issues this rule under the ALWTRP 
regulations at 50 CFR 229.32 (g)(1) and (2). These amendments are in 
response to a January 2006 death of a right whale calf from gillnet 
gear entanglement, and recommendations from the Atlantic Large Whale 
Take Reduction Team's Mid-Atlantic Southeast Subgroup and the Marine 
Mammal Commission.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/15/06                    71 FR 66482
NPRM Comment Period End         12/15/06
Final Action                    06/25/07                    72 FR 34632

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

RIN: 0648-AU90
[FR Doc. 07-04540 Filed 12-07-07; 8:45 am]
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