Proposed Changes to Seabird Measures for Hawaiʻi Deep-Set Longline Fishery
Summary
NOAA Fisheries is proposing to modify seabird interaction mitigation measures in the Hawaiʻi pelagic deep-set (tuna) longline fishery. For vessels stern-setting above 23° N latitude, we propose to replace the blue-dyed bait and strategic offal discharge requirements with a new tori line (bird-scaring streamers) requirements. The proposed action is intended to reduce albatross interactions while also streamlining fishing operations and management of this fishery. Shallow-set and side-setting vessel requirements would not be impacted by this proposed rule.
NOAA Fisheries is accepting comments on the proposed rule through November 16, 2023.
Federal Register
Supporting Materials
- Proposed Rule Fact Sheet (PDF, 2 pages)
- Proposed Rule Fact Sheet - Vietnamese Translation (PDF, 2 pages)
- 2023 Draft Environmental Assessment and Regulatory Impact Review
- 2021 Tori Line Study Report
- 2019 Tori Line Project Findings
- Annual Reports: Seabird Interactions and Mitigation Efforts in Hawaiʻi Pelagic …