IB 02-49: NMFS Prohibits Retention of "Other Rockfish" in the Western Regulatory Area of the GOA

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is prohibiting retention of "other rockfish" in the Western Regulatory Area (Statistical Area 610, between 159 degrees and 170 degrees W. longitudes) of the Gulf of Alaska, effective 12 noon, Alaska local time, July 15, according to James W. Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, NMFS.

This action is necessary because the amount of the 2002 total allowable catch of "other rockfish" in this area has been achieved and is issued pursuant to 50 CFR 679.20(d)(2). "Other rockfish" in the Western Regulatory Area means slope rockfish and demersal shelf rockfish.

NMFS is requiring that catches of "other rockfish" in this subarea be treated in the same manner as prohibited species and discarded at sea with a minimum of injury.

This information bulletin only provides notice of a regulatory change. For the purposes of complying with the regulatory change, you are advised to see the actual text of the regulation in the Code of Federal Regulations.