Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Plan Modifications; Notice of Intent to Prepare Environmental Impact Statement and Request for Comments

We intend to begin a rulemaking process that will amend the Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Plan (Plan) to reduce the risk of serious injuries and mortalities to North Atlantic right whales (Eubalaena glacialis) and other large whales caused by entanglement in commercial trap/pot fisheries along the U.S. East Coast. An Environmental Impact Statement will be prepared in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act to analyze the impacts to the environment of alternatives to amend the Plan.