Proposed Rule for Southern New England Habitat Area of Particular Concern

NOAA Fisheries proposes to designate a Habitat Area of Particular Concern (HAPC) within and around wind lease areas in Southern New England, including around Cox Ledge, as recommended by the New England Fishery Management Council. This action is necessary to focus conservation recommendations on cod spawning habitats and complex benthic habitats using the best scientific information available. This rule is intended to inform the public of the proposed HAPC designation and provide an opportunity for comment on the proposed action.