Biological Opinion on the Authorization of the Atka Mackerel and Walleye Pollock Fisheries between 1999–2002

This opinion fulfills the section 7 requirements for consultation on three separate agency actions that have been proposed:

1. authorization of an Atka mackerel fishery under the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands groundfish fishery management plan between 1999 and 2002
2.  authorization of a walleye pollock fishery under the BSAI groundfish fishery management plan between 1999 and 2002
3. authorization of a walleye pollock fishery under the Gulf of Alaska groundfish fishery management plan between 1999 and 2002

Section 7 regulations allow a formal consultation to encompass a number of similar actions within a given geographic area or a segment of a comprehensive plan (50 CFR 402.14). Consistent with this regulatory provision and for purposes of efficiency, these three actions are being summarized in a single biological opinion. The opinion analyzes the effects of these actions on the endangered western population of Steller sea lions and its critical habitat.

Action Agency: National Marine Fisheries Service Alaska Region, Sustainable Fisheries Division