Proposed Rule Regarding Fish Aggregating Device Design Requirements for Purse Seine Vessels, IMO Number Requirements, and Bycatch Restrictions in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean
Summary
NOAA Fisheries announces a proposed rule to establish fish aggregating device design requirements for purse seine vessels, International Maritime Organization (IMO) number requirements, and bycatch restrictions in the western and central Pacific Ocean. This proposed rule would apply to U.S. fishing vessels used to fish for highly migratory species in the western and central Pacific Ocean. This action is necessary to satisfy the obligations of the United States under the Convention on the Conservation and Management of Highly Migratory Fish Stocks in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean, to which it is a Contracting Party.
Comments must be submitted in writing by November 8, 2021.