[Federal Register Volume 75, Number 79 (Monday, April 26, 2010)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 21749-21771]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2010-8930]
[[Page 21749]]
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Part IV
Department of Commerce
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###Semiannual Regulatory Agenda###
[[Page 21750]]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)
_______________________________________________________________________
DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
Office of the Secretary
13 CFR Ch. III
15 CFR Subtitle A; Subtitle B, Chs. I, II, III, VII, VIII, IX, and XI
19 CFR Ch. III
37 CFR Chs. I, IV, and V
48 CFR Ch. 13
50 CFR Chs. II, III, IV, and VI
Spring 2010 Semiannual Agenda of Regulations
AGENCY: Office of the Secretary, Commerce.
ACTION: Semiannual regulatory agenda.
_______________________________________________________________________
SUMMARY: In compliance with Executive Order 12866, entitled
``Regulatory Planning and Review,'' and the Regulatory Flexibility Act,
as amended, the Department of Commerce (Department), in the spring and
fall of each year, publishes in the Federal Register an agenda of
regulations under development of review over the next 12 months.
Rulemaking actions are grouped according to prerulemaking, proposed
rules, final rules, long-term actions, and rulemaking actions completed
since the fall 2009 agenda. The purpose of the agenda is to provide
information to the public on regulations currently under review, being
proposed, or issued by the Department. The agenda is intended to
facilitate comments and views by interested members of the public.
The Department's spring 2010 regulatory agenda includes
regulatory activities that are expected to be conducted during the
period April 1, 2010, through March 31, 2011.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Specific: For additional information about specific regulatory
actions listed in the agenda, contact the individual identified as
the contact person.
General: Comments or inquiries of a general nature about the
agenda should be directed to Tricia Choe, Acting Chief Counsel for
Regulation, Office of the Assistant General Counsel for Legislation
and Regulation, U.S. Department of Commerce, Washington, DC 20230;
telephone: 202-482-3151.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Executive Order 12866 requires agencies to
publish an agenda of those regulations that are under consideration
pursuant to this order. By memorandum of January 15, 2010, the Office
of Management and Budget issued guidelines and procedures for the
preparation and publication of the spring 2010 Unified Agenda of
Federal Regulatory and Deregulatory Actions. The Regulatory Flexibility
Act, 5 U.S.C. 601 et seq., requires agencies to publish, in the spring
and fall of each year, a regulatory flexibility agenda that contains a
brief description of the subject of any rule likely to have a
significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities.
The agenda also identifies those entries that have been selected for
periodic review under section 610 of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
In addition, beginning with the fall 2007 edition, the Internet
became the basic means for disseminating the Unified Agenda. The
complete Unified Agenda will be available online at
www.reginfo.gov, in a format that offers users a greatly enhanced
ability to obtain information from the Agenda database.
Because publication in the Federal Register is mandated for the
regulatory flexibility agendas required by the Regulatory
Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 602), the Department of Commerce's
printed agenda entries include only:
(1) Rules that are in the Agency's regulatory flexibility
agenda, in accordance with the Regulatory Flexibility Act, because
they are likely to have a significant economic impact on a
substantial number of small entities; and
(2) Rules that the Agency has identified for periodic review
under section 610 of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
Printing of these entries is limited to fields that contain
information required by the Regulatory Flexibility Act's Agenda
requirements. Additional information on these entries is available
in the United Agenda published on the Internet. In addition, for
fall editions of the Agenda, the entire Regulatory Plan will
continue to be printed in the Federal Register, as in past years,
including the Department of Commerce's Regulatory Plan.
Within the Department, the Office of the Secretary and various
operating units may issue regulations. Operating units, such as the
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the Bureau
of Industry and Security, and the Patent and Trademark Office issue
the greatest share of the Department's regulations.
A large number of regulatory actions reported in the agenda
deal with fishery management programs of NOAA's National Marine
Fisheries Service (NMFS). To avoid repetition of programs and
definitions, as well as to provide some understanding of the
technical and institutional elements of the NMFS programs, an
``Explanation of Information Contained in NMFS Regulatory Entries''
is provided below.
Explanation of Information Contained in NMFS Regulatory Entries
The Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act
(16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.) (the Act) governs the management of
fisheries within the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The EEZ refers
to those waters from the outer edge of the State boundaries,
generally 3 nautical miles, to a distance of 200 nautical miles.
Fishery Management Plans (FMPs) are to be prepared for fisheries
that require conservation and management measures. Regulations
implementing these FMPs regulate domestic fishing and foreign
fishing where permitted. Foreign fishing may be conducted in a
fishery in which there is no FMP only if a preliminary fishery
management plan has been issued to govern that foreign fishing.
Under the Act, eight Regional Fishery Management Councils
(Councils) prepare FMPs or amendments to FMPs for fisheries within
their respective areas. In the development of such plans or
amendments and their implementing regulations, the Councils are
required by law to conduct public hearings on the draft plans and
to consider the use of alternative means of regulating.
The Council process for developing FMPs and amendments makes it
difficult for NMFS to determine the significance and timing of some
regulatory actions under consideration by the Councils at the time
the semiannual regulatory agenda is published.
The Department's spring 2010 regulatory agenda follows.
Cameron F. Kerry,
General Counsel.
[[Page 21751]]
International Trade Administration--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identifier
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
50 Commercial Availability of Fabric and Yarn............................................ 0625-AA59
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identifier
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
51 Maximize Retention and Monitoring Program in the Shore-Based Pacific Whiting Fishery.. 0648-AR63
52 American Lobster Fishery; Fishing Effort Control Measures To Complement Interstate 0648-AT31
Lobster Management Recommendations by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission.
53 South Atlantic Fishery Ecosystem Plan Comprehensive Amendment......................... 0648-AV31
54 Collection and Use of Tax Identification Numbers From Holders of and Applicants for 0648-AV76
National Marine Fisheries Service Permits.............................................
55 Amendment 17 to the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council Snapper Grouper Fishery 0648-AW11
Management Plan.......................................................................
56 Amendment 2 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Queen Conch Fishery of Puerto Rico 0648-AW15
and the U.S. Virgin Islands...........................................................
57 Marine Mammal Protection Act Stranding Regulation Revisions........................... 0648-AW22
58 Amendment 4 to the Atlantic Herring Fishery Management Plan........................... 0648-AW75
59 Allowable Modifications to the Turtle Excluder Device (TED) Requirements.............. 0648-AW93
60 Regulatory Amendment To Correct and Clarify Amendment 13 and Subsequent Frameworks of 0648-AW95
the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan....................................
61 Amendment 11 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, Butterfish Fishery Management Plan...... 0648-AX05
62 Amendment 30 to the Fishery Management Plan for Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands King 0648-AX47
and Tanner Crabs Arbitration Regulations..............................................
63 Salmon Bycatch Reduction Management Measures for the Fishery Management Plan 91 in the 0648-AX89
Bering Sea Aleutian Islands...........................................................
64 Revoke Inactive Quota Share and Annual Individual Fishing Quota From a Holder of Quota 0648-AX91
Share Under the Pacific Halibut and Sablefish Fixed Gear Individual Fishing Quota
Program...............................................................................
65 2010 Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Recreational Management Measures....... 0648-AY04
66 Maximized Retention Monitoring Program for Catcher Vessels in the Pacific Whiting 0648-AY17
Mothership Fishery in the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery............................
67 Fisheries of the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, South Atlantic; Gulf of Mexico Fisheries; 0648-AY22
Generic Amendment for Annual Catch Limits.............................................
68 Regulatory Amendment To Revise Charter Halibut Logbook Submission Requirements........ 0648-AY38
69 Addendum IV to the Weakfish Interstate Management Plan--Bycatch Trip Limit............ 0648-AY41
70 Framework 21 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan...................... 0648-AY43
71 Fishery Management Plan Amendment 95 for Skates Management in the Groundfish Fisheries 0648-AY48
of the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands................................................
72 Amendment 2; Fishery Management Plan for Queen Conch Fishery of Puerto Rico and U.S. 0648-AY55
Virgin Islands, and Amendment 5; Reef Fish Fishery Management Plan of Puerto Rico and
U.S. Virgin Islands...................................................................
73 Fisheries Off West Coast States; Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery; Interim 2010 Tribal 0648-AY59
Whiting Regulations...................................................................
74 Fisheries Off West Coast States; West Coast Salmon Fisheries; 2010 Management Measures 0648-AY60
75 Marine Mammal Protection Act Permit Regulation Revisions.............................. 0648-AV82
76 Take and Import Marine Mammals: Proposed Rule for Take of Marine Mammals Incidental to 0648-AW59
Routine Operations of 13 Power Generating Stations in Central and Southern California.
77 Reduce Sea Turtle Bycatch in Atlantic Trawl Fisheries................................. 0648-AY61
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identifier
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
78 Certification of Nations Whose Fishing Vessels Are Engaged in IUU Fishing or Bycatch 0648-AV51
of Protected Living Marine Resources..................................................
79 Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Reauthorization Act (MSRA) 0648-AV53
Environmental Review Procedure........................................................
80 Revise Regulations Governing the North Pacific Groundfish Observer Program............ 0648-AW24
[[Page 21752]]
81 Amendment 3 to the Northeast Skate Complex Fishery Management Plan.................... 0648-AW30
82 Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Atlantic Shark Management Measures................. 0648-AW65
83 Amendment 31 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish Resources of the Gulf of 0648-AX67
Mexico................................................................................
84 Snapper-Grouper Fishery Management Plan of the South Atlantic......................... 0648-AX75
85 Framework Adjustment 44 and Specifications for the Northeast Multispecies Fishery 0648-AY29
Management Plan.......................................................................
86 FY 2010 Atlantic Deep-Sea Red Crab Specifications..................................... 0648-AY51
87 Provide Regulations for Permits for Capture, Transport, Import, and Export of 0648-AH26
Protected Species for Public Display, and for Maintaining a Captive Marine Mammal
Inventory.............................................................................
88 Protective Regulations for Killer Whales in the Northwest Region Under the Endangered 0648-AV15
Species Act and Marine Mammal Protection Act..........................................
89 Rulemaking To Establish Take Prohibitions for the Threatened Southern Distinct 0648-AV94
Population Segment of North American Green Sturgeon...................................
90 Taking and Importing Marine Mammals; U.S. Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City 0648-AW80
Division Mission Activities...........................................................
91 Rule To Revise the Critical Habitat Designation for the Endangered Leatherback Sea 0648-AX06
Turtle................................................................................
92 Critical Habitat Designation for Cook Inlet Beluga Whale Under the Endangered Species 0648-AX50
Act...................................................................................
93 Taking of Marine Mammals Incidental to Specified Activities; Taking Marine Mammals 0648-AX86
Incidental to Training Operations Conducted Within the Gulf of Mexico Range Complex...
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identifier
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
94 Fishery Management Plan for Regulating Offshore Marine Aquaculture in the Gulf of 0648-AS65
Mexico................................................................................
95 Amendment 5 to the Atlantic Herring Fishery Management Plan........................... 0648-AY47
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identifier
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
96 Fisheries in the Western Pacific; Pelagic Fisheries; Squid Jig Fisheries.............. 0648-AS71
97 Modifying Maximum Retainable Amounts (MRAs) for Selected Groundfish Species Caught by 0648-AV32
the Non-American Fishing Act Trawl Catcher Processor Sector...........................
98 Initial Implementation of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Convention 0648-AV63
Implementation Act....................................................................
99 Amendment 15B to the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council Snapper Grouper Fishery 0648-AW12
Management Plan.......................................................................
100 Fisheries in the Western Pacific; Western Pacific Pelagic Fisheries; Amendment 18 to 0648-AW49
the Pelagics Fishery Management Plan; Shallow-Set Longline Swordfish Fishery..........
101 Halibut Charter Vessel Moratorium..................................................... 0648-AW92
102 Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; 2009 North and South Atlantic Commercial Quotas.... 0648-AX07
103 Amendment 29 to the Fishery Management Plan for Reef Fish Resources of the Gulf of 0648-AX39
Mexico................................................................................
104 Western and Central Pacific Fisheries for Highly Migratory Species; Implementation of 0648-AX59
the Longline Catch Limits Adopted at the Fifth Session of the Western and Central
Pacific Fisheries Commission..........................................................
105 Fisheries Off West Coast States; Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery; Data Collection for 0648-AX98
the Trawl Rationalization Program.....................................................
106 Amendment 10 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fishery Management Plan.. 0648-AY00
107 Fishing Restrictions in the Longline and Purse Seine Fisheries in the Eastern Pacific 0648-AY08
Ocean in 2009, 2010, and 2011.........................................................
108 2010 Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fishery Specifications and Management 0648-AY13
Measures..............................................................................
109 2010 Pacific Halibut Fisheries; Catch Sharing Plan.................................... 0648-AY31
110 Harbor Porpoise Take Reduction Plan Regulations....................................... 0648-AW51
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[[Page 21753]]
Patent and Trademark Office--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identifier
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
111 Revision of USPTO Fees for Fiscal Year 2011........................................... 0651-AC43
112 Revision of USPTO Fees for Fiscal Year 2012........................................... 0651-AC44
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Patent and Trademark Office--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identifier
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
113 Interim Increase on Patent Fees for Fiscal Year 2011.................................. 0651-AC42
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Patent and Trademark Office--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identifier
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
114 Examination of Patent Applications That Include Claims Containing Alternative Language 0651-AC00
115 Fiscal Year 2009 Revision of Request for Continued Examination, 18-Month Publication, 0651-AC29
and Other Miscellaneous Cost-Recovery Patent Fees.....................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC) Long-Term Actions
International Trade Administration (ITA)
_______________________________________________________________________
50. COMMERCIAL AVAILABILITY OF FABRIC AND YARN
Legal Authority: PL 106-200, sec 112(b)(5)(B); PL 106-200, sec 211; EO
13191; PL 107-210, sec 3103
Abstract: This rule implements certain provisions of the Trade and
Development Act of 2000 (the Act). Title I of the Act (the African
Growth and Opportunity Act or AGOA), title II of the Act (the United
States-Caribbean Basin Trade Partnership Act or CBTPA), and title XXXI
of the Trade Act of 2002 (the Andean Trade Promotion and Drug
Eradication Act or ATPDEA) provide for quota- and duty-free treatment
for qualifying apparel products from designated beneficiary countries.
AGOA and CBTPA authorize quota- and duty-free treatment for apparel
articles that are both cut (or knit-to-shape) and sewn or otherwise
assembled in one or more designated beneficiary countries from yarn or
fabric that is not formed in the United States or a beneficiary
country, provided it has been determined that such yarn or fabric
cannot be supplied by the domestic industry in commercial quantities in
a timely manner. The President has delegated to the Committee for the
Implementation of Textile Agreements (the Committee), which is chaired
by the Department of Commerce, the authority to determine whether yarn
or fabric cannot be supplied by the domestic industry in commercial
quantities in a timely manner under the AGOA, the ATPDEA, and the
CBTPA, and has authorized the Committee to extend quota- and duty-free
treatment to apparel of such yarn or fabric. The rule provides the
procedure for interested parties to submit a request alleging that a
yarn or fabric cannot be supplied by the domestic industry in
commercial quantities in a timely manner, the procedure for public
comments, and relevant factors that will be considered in the
Committee's determination. The rule also outlines the factors to be
considered by the Committee in extending quota- and duty-free
treatment.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Janet Heinzen
Phone: 202 482-4006
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0625-AA59
[[Page 21754]]
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC) Proposed Rule Stage
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
_______________________________________________________________________
NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE
____________________________________________________
51. MAXIMIZE RETENTION AND MONITORING PROGRAM IN THE SHORE-BASED PACIFIC
WHITING FISHERY
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: The Pacific Fishery Management Council (Pacific Council) at
their October 21-25, 1996, meeting in San Francisco, California
addressed the treatment and disposition of salmon in the groundfish
trawl fisheries, specifically the shore-based whiting fishery. At that
meeting, the Pacific Council discussed the retention of salmon in the
shore-based whiting fishery and took action to maintain a viable shore-
based whiting fishery by using exempted fishing permits (EFPs). These
EFPs allowed the shore-based whiting fleet to temporarily deliver
unsorted catch to processing plants and provided for the monitoring of
incidentally taken salmon until a permanent monitoring program could be
implemented. In keeping with the Pacific Council's recommendation, NMFS
is proceeding with implementing a monitoring program for the shore-
based whiting fishery. This action will aid in the sustainable
management of Pacific Coast salmon and groundfish fisheries while
providing an important economic opportunity to those associated with
the harvest, processing, and selling of whiting taken by the shore-
based whiting fleet. The need for implementing a permanent monitoring
program in the shore-based Pacific whiting fishery is to provide for a
full retention fishery by enabling the shore-based whiting fleet,
comprised exclusively of catcher vessels, to deliver unsorted catch to
processing plants. This practice is necessary to ensure that whiting
landings are of market quality, while abiding by Federal groundfish
regulations and those implementing the Pacific Coast salmon and
groundfish fishery management plans (FMPs).
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 05/00/10
NPRM Comment Period End 07/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Barry Thom, Regional Administrator, Northwest Region,
NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, Building 1, 7600 Sand Point Way NE., Seattle, WA 48115-
0070
Phone: 206 526-6150
Fax: 206 526-6426
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AR63
_______________________________________________________________________
52. AMERICAN LOBSTER FISHERY; FISHING EFFORT CONTROL MEASURES TO
COMPLEMENT INTERSTATE LOBSTER MANAGEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS BY THE ATLANTIC
STATES MARINE FISHERIES COMMISSION
Legal Authority: 16 USC 5101 et seq
Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service announces that it is
considering, and seeking public comment on, revisions to Federal
American lobster regulations for the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ)
associated with effort control measures as recommended for Federal
implementation by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission
(ASFMC), as outlined in the Interstate Fishery Management Plan (ISFMP)
for American Lobster. This action will evaluate effort control measures
in certain Lobster Conservation Management Areas including: limits on
future access based on historic participation criteria; procedures to
allow trap transfers among qualifiers and impose a trap reduction or
conservation tax on any trap transfers; and a trap reduction schedule
to meet the goals of the ISFMP.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
ANPRM 05/10/05 70 FR 24495
ANPRM Comment Period End 06/09/05
NPRM 05/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AT31
_______________________________________________________________________
53. SOUTH ATLANTIC FISHERY ECOSYSTEM PLAN COMPREHENSIVE AMENDMENT
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: The purpose of this action is to develop an ecosystem-based
approach to resource management. The South Atlantic Council plans to
develop a Fishery Ecosystem Plan (FEP) Comprehensive Amendment, which
would modify all its Fishery Management Plans (FMPs). The initial
amendment would include the following: (1) Various actions to comply
with new essential fish habitat requirements; (2) establishment of deep
water coral Habitat Areas of Particular Concern, with gear limitations,
such as the establishment of allowable trawl areas; and (3) other
possible actions necessary to implement ecosystem-based fishery
management.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 05/00/10
NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AV31
_______________________________________________________________________
54. COLLECTION AND USE OF TAX IDENTIFICATION NUMBERS FROM HOLDERS OF AND
APPLICANTS FOR NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE PERMITS
Legal Authority: 31 USC 7701; 16 USC 1801 et seq; 16 USC 1361 et seq;
16 USC 1531 et seq
Abstract: In conformance with the Debt Collection Improvement Act of
1996 (Debt Collection Act), the National Marine Fisheries Service
(NMFS) will issue a rule to require that each existing holder of and
future applicant for a permit, license, endorsement, authorization,
transfer or like instrument issued by the agency provide a Taxpayer
Identification Number (TIN) (business, employer identification number
or individual,
[[Page 21755]]
social security number) and Date of Incorporation or Date of Birth, as
appropriate. Under the Debt Collection Act, NMFS is required to collect
the TIN to report on and collect any delinquent non-tax debt owed to
the Federal Government. NMFS plans to use Date of Incorporation or Date
of Birth information for administrative aspects of permitting
procedures with appropriate confidentiality safeguards pursuant to the
Privacy Act. The rule will specify: (a) The particular uses that may be
made of the reported TIN; (b) the effects, if any, of not providing the
required information; (c) how the information will be used to ascertain
if the permit holder or applicant owes delinquent non-tax debt to the
Government pursuant to the Debt Collection Act; (d) the effects on the
permit holder or applicant when such delinquent debts are owed; and (e)
the agency's intended communications with the permit holder or
applicant regarding the relationship of such delinquent debts to its
permitting process and the need to resolve such debts as a basis for
completing permit issuance or renewal. The rule will amend existing
agency permit regulations and contain all appropriate modified and new
collections-of-information pursuant to the Paperwork Reduction Act.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 05/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, Room 13362, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD
20910
Phone: 301 713-2334
Fax: 301 713-0596
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AV76
_______________________________________________________________________
55. AMENDMENT 17 TO THE SOUTH ATLANTIC FISHERY MANAGEMENT COUNCIL
SNAPPER GROUPER FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: Amendment 17 is intended to establish management reference
points (MSY, OY) for red snapper; establish a rebuilding plan
(rebuilding timeframe and rebuilding strategy) for red snapper; specify
Annual Catch Limits (ACL), Annual Catch Targets (ACT), and
Accountability Measures (AM) for 10 species undergoing overfishing; and
modify management measures to ensure future catch is equal to or below
the ACL.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 05/00/10
NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AW11
_______________________________________________________________________
56. AMENDMENT 2 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE QUEEN CONCH
FISHERY OF PUERTO RICO AND THE U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: St. Croix queen conch landings by commercial fishermen alone
have exceeded sustainable harvest levels since the 2000-2001 fishing
season. In 2005-2006, the commercial harvest was over four times
sustainable levels. Additionally, there is an unknown but significant
recreational harvest. Overfishing of queen conch has led to resource
collapse in other regions and in some cases, long-term resource loss.
According to the NMFS Report on the Status of the U.S. Fisheries for
2006, queen conch is overfished and undergoing overfishing. Under
current fishing practices, reductions in mortality are not expected to
be sufficient in the queen conch fishery. Without a reduction in
mortality, queen conch are not expected to achieve the rebuilding goals
established in the Sustainable Fisheries Amendment of 2005. Therefore,
a change in fishing practices is needed to help achieve the necessary
reductions in queen conch fishing mortality.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Intent 10/11/07 72 FR 58057
NPRM 05/00/10
NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/10
Final Action 08/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AW15
_______________________________________________________________________
57. MARINE MAMMAL PROTECTION ACT STRANDING REGULATION REVISIONS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1379; 16 USC 1382; 16 USC 1421
Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is considering
proposing changes to its implementing regulations (50 CFR 216)
governing the taking of stranded marine mammals under section 109(h),
section 112(c), and title IV of the Marine Mammal Protection Act and is
soliciting public comment to better inform the process. NMFS intends to
clarify the requirements and procedures for responding to stranded
marine mammals and for determining the disposition of rehabilitated
marine mammals, which includes the procedures for the placement of non-
releasable animals and for authorizing the retention of releasable
rehabilitated marine mammals for scientific research, enhancement, or
public display. This action will be analyzed under the National
Environmental Policy Act with an Environmental Assessment.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
ANPRM 01/31/08 73 FR 5786
ANPRM Comment Period End 03/31/08
NPRM 05/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: David Cottingham, Department of Commerce, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric
[[Page 21756]]
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2322
Fax: 301 713-2521
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AW22
_______________________________________________________________________
58. AMENDMENT 4 TO THE ATLANTIC HERRING FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: The goal of Amendment 4 is to improve catch monitoring and
ensure compliance with the Reauthorized Magnuson-Stevens Fishery
Conservation and Management Act (MSRA). The management measures
developed in this amendment may address one or more of the following
objectives: (1) To implement measures to improve the long-term
monitoring of catch (landings and bycatch) in the herring fishery; (2)
to implement annual catch limits and accountability measures consistent
with the MSRA; (3) to implement other management measures as necessary
to ensure compliance with the new provisions of the MSRA; (4) to
develop a sector allocation process or other limited access privilege
program for the herring fishery; and (5) in the context of objectives
1-4 (above), to consider the health of the herring resource and the
important role of herring as a forage fish and a predator fish
throughout its range.
The New England Fishery Management Council will develop conservation
and management measures to address the issues identified above and meet
the goals/objectives of the amendment. Any conservation and management
measures developed in this amendment also must comply with all
applicable laws.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Intent 05/08/08 73 FR 26082
Notice of Intent Comment Period
End 06/30/08
NPRM 05/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AW75
_______________________________________________________________________
59. ALLOWABLE MODIFICATIONS TO THE TURTLE EXCLUDER DEVICE (TED)
REQUIREMENTS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq
Abstract: NMFS proposes to revise the TED requirements to allow new
materials and modifications to existing approved TED designs.
Specifically, proposed allowable modifications include the use of flat
bar, box pipe, and oval pipe for use in currently-approved TED grids;
an increase in mesh size on escape flaps from 1-5/8 inches to 2 inches;
the use of the Boone single straight cut and triangular escape
openings; specifications on the use of TED grid brace bars; and the use
of the Chauvin Shrimp Kicker to improve shrimp retention.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 05/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Michael Barnette, Department of Commerce, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South,
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 551-5794
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AW93
_______________________________________________________________________
60. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO CORRECT AND CLARIFY AMENDMENT 13 AND
SUBSEQUENT FRAMEWORKS OF THE NORTHEAST MULTISPECIES FISHERY MANAGEMENT
PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: This action would make corrections and clarifications to the
final rule implementing Amendment 13 to the Northeast Multispecies
Fishery Management Plan, as well as subsequent groundfish actions.
These corrections are administrative in nature and are intended to
correct inaccurate references and other inadvertent errors and to
clarify specific regulations to maintain consistency with the intent of
Amendment 13 and subsequent actions.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 05/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AW95
_______________________________________________________________________
61. AMENDMENT 11 TO THE ATLANTIC MACKEREL, SQUID, BUTTERFISH FISHERY
MANAGEMENT PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: Amendment 11 may consider: (1) Limited access in the Atlantic
mackerel (mackerel) fishery; (2) implementation of annual catch limits
(ACLs) and accountability measures (AMs) for mackerel and butterfish
required under the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management
Reauthorization Act of 2006 (MSRA); (3) updating of the description and
identification of essential fish habitat (EFH) for all life stages of
mackerel, Loligo squid, Illex squid, and butterfish (including gear
impacts on Loligo squid egg EFH); and (4) possible limitations on at-
sea processing of mackerel.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Intent 08/11/08 73 FR 46590
Notice of Intent Comment Period
End 09/10/08
NPRM 05/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AX05
[[Page 21757]]
_______________________________________________________________________
62. AMENDMENT 30 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR BERING SEA AND
ALEUTIAN ISLANDS KING AND TANNER CRABS ARBITRATION REGULATIONS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1862; PL 109-241; PL 109-479
Abstract: The proposed action would implement Amendment 30 to the
Fishery Management Plan for Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands King and
Tanner Crabs to make minor modifications to the arbitration system used
to settle price and other disputes among harvesters and processors in
the Bering Sea/Aleutian Islands crab rationalization program.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 05/00/10
Notice of Availability 05/00/10
NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/10
Notice of Availability Comment
Period End 07/00/10
Final Rule 11/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AX47
_______________________________________________________________________
63. SALMON BYCATCH REDUCTION MANAGEMENT MEASURES FOR THE FISHERY
MANAGEMENT PLAN 91 IN THE BERING SEA ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq; 16 USC 3631 et seq; 16 USC 773 et
seq; PL 108-447
Abstract: This fishery management plan amendment and rulemaking will
implement the North Pacific Fishery Management Council's
recommendations for management measures to minimize to the extent
practicable Chinook salmon bycatch in the Bering Sea pollock fishery.
These management measures provide two options for the pollock sectors
(e.g., inshore catcher vessels, offshore catcher-processors, catcher
vessels delivering to motherships, or CDQ entities): fish under a lower
Chinook salmon cap or participate in an incentive program and fish
under a higher cap. Under the first option, the fleet as a whole may
choose to fish under a transferable cap of 47,591 Chinook salmon, which
would be allocated by season and sector. Once each sector reaches its
specific cap, it would be prohibited from continuing to fish for
pollock for the remainder of the season. Alternatively, vessels or CDQ
entities may choose to participate in private contracts called
incentive plan agreements (IPA) which would describe how participants
would maintain low bycatch even when their bycatch levels are well
below the hard cap approved. Those vessels or CDQ entities
participating in an IPA would be allocated a transferable share of up
to 60,000 Chinook salmon. This cap would be reduced for any vessels or
CDQ entities not participating in an IPA and those vessels and CDQ
entities would fish under a lower, non-transferable cap. In addition to
the annual cap levels, if any sector operating under an IPA exceeds its
proportion of 47,591 Chinook salmon three times in any seven-year
period, the sector's maximum bycatch limit will be permanently reduced
to its proportional share of the 47,591 cap. If the FMP amendments and
proposed rule are approved, fishing under the new Chinook salmon
bycatch management measures would start in 2011.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Availability 02/18/10 75 FR 7228
NPRM 03/23/10 75 FR 14016
Notice of Availability Comment
Period End 04/19/10
NPRM Comment Period End 05/07/10
Final Rule 11/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AX89
_______________________________________________________________________
64. REVOKE INACTIVE QUOTA SHARE AND ANNUAL INDIVIDUAL FISHING QUOTA FROM
A HOLDER OF QUOTA SHARE UNDER THE PACIFIC HALIBUT AND SABLEFISH FIXED
GEAR INDIVIDUAL FISHING QUOTA PROGRAM
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq; 16 USC 773 (Halibut Act)
Abstract: This action would amend existing commercial fishing
regulations for the fixed-gear Pacific Halibut and sablefish individual
fishing quota program at 50 CFR 679. The amendment would revoke
inactive quota share unless the quota share permit holder affirmatively
notices NMFS in writing within 60 days of the agency's preliminary
determination of inactivity that they choose to (a) retain the inactive
IFQ quota share, (b) activate the quota share through transfer or by
fishing, or (c) appeal the preliminary determination. Quota share that
is not activated through this process and is revoked would be
proportionally distributed to the quota share pool. This regulatory
revision is based on the recommendations of the North Pacific Fishery
Management Council in June 2006 and again in February 2009. Amending
the regulations would improve the efficiency of the Pacific Halibut and
Sablefish IFQ program and augment operational flexibility of
participating fisherman.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 05/00/10
NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/10
Final Rule 11/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AX91
_______________________________________________________________________
65. 2010 SUMMER FLOUNDER, SCUP, AND BLACK SEA BASS RECREATIONAL
MANAGEMENT MEASURES
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
[[Page 21758]]
Abstract: This action will propose and implement the 2010 recreational
management measures (minimum fish size, fishing seasons, and possession
limits) for the summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass fisheries.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 05/00/10
NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AY04
_______________________________________________________________________
66. MAXIMIZED RETENTION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR CATCHER VESSELS IN THE
PACIFIC WHITING MOTHERSHIP FISHERY IN THE PACIFIC COAST GROUNDFISH
FISHERY
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: The action would implement a monitoring program for catcher
vessels in the mothership sector of the Pacific whiting fishery off the
coast of Washington, Oregon, and California. The monitoring program
would consist of a camera and other sensors to monitor fishing activity
in order to maintain the integrity of the maximized retention
requirements found at 50 CFR 660.306 (f)(7). Maximized retention
encourages full retention of all catch while allowing minor discard
events to occur. This ensures that unsorted catch is available for
observers to monitor on board the mothership processors and thereby
maintains the integrity of data collected under the observer program.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 05/00/10
NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Frank Lockhart, Program Analyst, Department of
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand
Point Way NE., Seattle, WA 98115
Phone: 206 526-6142
Fax: 206 526-6736
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AY17
_______________________________________________________________________
67. FISHERIES OF THE CARIBBEAN, GULF OF MEXICO, SOUTH ATLANTIC; GULF OF
MEXICO FISHERIES; GENERIC AMENDMENT FOR ANNUAL CATCH LIMITS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: The generic amendment is intended to modify five of the
Council's Fishery Management Plan (FMPs). These include FMPs for: Reef
Fish Resources, Shrimp, Stone Crab, Coral and Coral Reef Resources, and
Red Drum. NMFS and the Council will develop these Annual Catch Limits
(ACLs) in co-operation with the Scientific and Statistical Committee
and the Southeast Fisheries Science Center. NMFS, in collaboration with
the Council, will develop a DEIS to evaluate alternatives and actions
for the ACLs. Some examples of these actions include: establishing
sector specific ACLs, selecting levels of risk associated with species
yields, considering removal or withdrawal of species from FMPs, and
delegating species or species assemblages to state regulators.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Intent 08/04/09 74 FR 47206
NPRM 11/00/10
NPRM Comment Period End 12/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AY22
_______________________________________________________________________
68. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO REVISE CHARTER HALIBUT
LOGBOOK SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 2431 et seq; 31 USC 9701 et seq
Abstract: Clarifies and revises the charter halibut logbook submission
requirements at 50 CFR part 300 to better match the submission schedule
and reporting format of the Alaska Department of Fish and Game
saltwater charter logbook.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 05/00/10
NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AY38
_______________________________________________________________________
69. ADDENDUM IV TO THE WEAKFISH INTERSTATE MANAGEMENT
PLAN--BYCATCH TRIP LIMIT
Legal Authority: 16 USC 5101
Abstract: NMFS takes this action to modify management restrictions in
the Federal weakfish fishery in a manner consistent with the
Commission's Weakfish Management Board's (Board) approved Addendum IV
to Amendment 4 to the ISFMP for Weakfish. In short, the proposed
Federal regulatory change would decrease the incidental catch allowance
for weakfish in the EEZ in non-directed fisheries using smaller mesh
sizes, from 150 pounds to no more than 100 pounds per day or trip,
whichever is longer in duration. In addition it would impose a one fish
possession limit on recreational fishers.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 05/00/10
NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, Room 13362, 1315
[[Page 21759]]
East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2334
Fax: 301 713-0596
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AY41
_______________________________________________________________________
70. FRAMEWORK 21 TO THE ATLANTIC SEA SCALLOP FISHERY
MANAGEMENT PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: Framework Adjustment 21 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery
Management Plan (Framework 21) will set specifications for the 2010
scallop fishing year, which begins March 1, 2010, including adjustments
to the total allowable catch, days-at-sea (DAS) allocations, scallop
access area rotation schedule, and access area trip allocations. This
framework is for a single year because the Council is working on
Amendment 15, which will establish a process for implementing annual
catch limits that are required to be in place in 2011 for the scallop
fishery. Framework 21 must also comply with the requirements of the
March 14, 2008 (amended February 5, 2009), Biological Opinion completed
for the Atlantic Sea Scallop fishery, which requires the amount of
allocated scallop fishing effort by limited access DAS scallop vessels
that can be used in the Mid-Atlantic to be limited during the time of
year when sea turtle distribution overlaps with scallop fishing
activity. In addition, Framework 21 considers minor adjustments to the
limited access general category individual fishing quota program,
scheduled to be implemented March 1, 2010, and the observer set-aside
program.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 05/00/10
NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AY43
_______________________________________________________________________
71. FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN AMENDMENT 95 FOR SKATES
MANAGEMENT IN THE GROUNDFISH FISHERIES OF THE BERING SEA AND ALEUTIAN
ISLANDS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 773 et seq; PL 108-447; PL 106-31; PL 106-554;
PL 109-479; PL 105-277; 16 USC 1801; 16 USC 1540
Abstract: NMFS proposes regulations to implement Amendment 95 to the
Fishery Management Plan for Groundfish of the Bering Sea and Aleutian
Islands Management Area (FMP). If approved, Amendment 95 would move
skates from the ``other species'' category to the target species list
in the FMP. By listing skates as target species, a directed fishery for
skates in the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands Management Area (BSAI)
may be managed to reduce the potential for overfishing skates. This
proposed action is intended to promote the goals and objectives of the
Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, the FMP, and
other applicable laws.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 05/00/10
NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/10
Final Action 11/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AY48
_______________________________________________________________________
72. AMENDMENT 2; FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR QUEEN
CONCH FISHERY OF PUERTO RICO AND U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS, AND AMENDMENT 5;
REEF FISH FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN OF PUERTO RICO AND U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: The Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act
(MSRA: Pub. L. 94-265), as amended through January 12, 2007, requires
the establishment of annual catch limits (ACLs) and accountability
measures (AMs) during 2010 for all species that are considered to be
overfished or undergoing overfishing. The present amendment is being
promulgated to meet those MSRA mandates as well as to establish
framework procedures with which to effect future changes to the
management plan and to restructure the fisheries management units for
grouper and snapper. Various alternatives are included in the draft
amendment, including maintenance of the status quo for each action as
well as various alternatives regarding the year-sequences used to
establish ALCs and the strategies to be employed to account for
overages and to respond to needed changes in management methods.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 05/00/10
NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AY55
_______________________________________________________________________
73. FISHERIES OFF WEST COAST STATES; PACIFIC COAST
GROUNDFISH FISHERY; INTERIM 2010 TRIBAL WHITING REGULATIONS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: NMFS takes this action to establish an interim 2010 tribal
whiting allocation, reporting and closure regulations, and refine
existing regulations on tribal whiting reapportionment.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 03/12/10 75 FR 11829
NPRM Comment Period End 04/02/10
Final Action 05/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
[[Page 21760]]
Agency Contact: Frank Lockhart, Program Analyst, Department of
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand
Point Way NE., Seattle, WA 98115
Phone: 206 526-6142
Fax: 206 526-6736
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AY59
_______________________________________________________________________
74. FISHERIES OFF WEST COAST STATES; WEST COAST
SALMON FISHERIES; 2010 MANAGEMENT MEASURES
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1854
Abstract: This final rule implements the 2010 annual management
measures as approved by NMFS.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 05/00/10
NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Frank Lockhart, Program Analyst, Department of
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand
Point Way NE., Seattle, WA 98115
Phone: 206 526-6142
Fax: 206 526-6736
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AY60
_______________________________________________________________________
75. MARINE MAMMAL PROTECTION ACT PERMIT REGULATION REVISIONS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1374
Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is considering
changes to its implementing regulations (50 CFR 216) governing the
issuance of permits for scientific research and enhancement activities
under Section 104 of the Marine Mammal Protection Act and is soliciting
public comment to better inform the process. NMFS intends to streamline
and clarify general permitting requirements and requirements for
scientific research and enhancement permits, simplify procedures for
transferring marine mammal parts, possibly apply the General
Authorization (GA) to research activities involving Level A harassment
of non-endangered marine mammals, and implement a ``permit application
cycle'' for application submission and processing of all marine mammal
permits. NMFS intends to write regulations for marine mammal
photography permits and is considering whether this activity should be
covered by the GA.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
ANPRM 09/13/07 72 FR 52339
ANPRM Comment Period Extended 10/15/07 72 FR 58279
ANPRM Comment Period End 11/13/07 72 FR 52339
ANPRM Comment Period End 12/13/07 72 FR 58279
NPRM 05/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Dr. Michael Payne, Fishery Biologist, Department of
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, P.O. Box
21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7235
Fax: 301 713-2521
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AV82
_______________________________________________________________________
76. TAKE AND IMPORT MARINE MAMMALS: PROPOSED RULE FOR TAKE OF MARINE
MAMMALS INCIDENTAL TO ROUTINE OPERATIONS OF 13 POWER GENERATING STATIONS
IN CENTRAL AND SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq
Abstract: NMFS proposes to govern the take of marine mammals by Level A
harassment (injury) and mortality from 13 power generating stations
located on the coast of central and southern California incidental to
routine power plant operations for a period of five years, under the
authority of section 101(a)(5)(A) of the Marine Mammal Protection Act.
Under that authority NMFS also must prescribe mitigation, monitoring,
and reporting requirements in connection with take authorizations.
Incidental takings of marine mammals, including California sea lions,
harbor seals, and northern elephant seals can and do occur as a result
of the operation of circulating water systems (CWS) by the electrical
power generation plants located on the coast of central and southern
California described in the incidental take authorization applications.
These CWS are an integral part of these power stations that provide
continuous cooling water necessary for power generation and safety of
the facility. The typical location of entrainment occurs as water is
taken into the plant via submerged structures or canals. Intake
velocities may be strong enough to pull live animals into the plant,
particularly if they are actively seeking prey in the vicinity of
intake structures. Confinement within intake plumbing could lead to
confusion and panic, especially for young, immature animals. If the
animal is unable to escape, it could (1) Drown or become fatally
injured in transit between intake and large sedimentation basins within
the plants known as forebays; (2) survive the transit and succumb in
the forebay due to exhaustion, illness, or disease; or (3) survive the
transit and be rescued by plant personnel using cages specially
designed for such an activity. It is also likely that previously dead
animals may end up entrained as well.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 05/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Dr. Michael Payne, Fishery Biologist, Department of
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, P.O. Box
21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7235
Fax: 301 713-2521
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AW59
_______________________________________________________________________
77. REDUCE SEA TURTLE BYCATCH IN ATLANTIC TRAWL
FISHERIES
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq
Abstract: NMFS is initiating a rulemaking action to reduce injury and
mortality to endangered and threatened sea turtles resulting from
incidental take, or bycatch, in trawl fisheries in the Atlantic waters.
NMFS will likely address the size of the turtle excluder device (TED)
escape opening currently required in the summer flounder trawl fishery,
the definition of a summer flounder trawler and the use of TEDS in this
fishery; the use of TEDs in the croaker and weakfish flynet, whelk,
Atlantic sea scallop, and calico scallop trawl fisheries of the
Atlantic Ocean; and new seasonal and temporal
[[Page 21761]]
boundaries for TED requirements. In addition, this rule will address
the definition of the Gulf Area applicable to the shrimp trawl fishery
in the southeast Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico. The purpose of the rule
is to aid in the protection and recovery of listed sea turtle
populations by reducing mortality in trawl fisheries through the use of
TEDs.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 05/00/10
NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Alexis Gutierrez, Department of Commerce, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver
Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2322
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AY61
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC) Final Rule Stage
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
_______________________________________________________________________
NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE
____________________________________________________
78. CERTIFICATION OF NATIONS WHOSE FISHING VESSELS ARE ENGAGED IN IUU
FISHING OR BYCATCH OF PROTECTED LIVING MARINE RESOURCES
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq; 16 USC 1826d to 1826k
Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is establishing
a process of identification and certification to address illegal,
unreported, or unregulated (IUU) activities and bycatch of protected
species in international fisheries. Nations whose fishing vessels
engage, or have been engaged, in IUU fishing or bycatch of protected
living marine resources would be identified in a biennial report to
Congress, as required under section 403 of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery
Conservation and Management Reauthorization Act (MSRA) of 2006. NMFS
would subsequently certify whether identified nations have taken
appropriate corrective action with respect to the activities of its
fishing vessels, as required under section 403 of MSRA.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
ANPRM 06/11/07 72 FR 33436
ANPRM Comment Period End 07/05/07
NPRM 01/14/09 74 FR 2019
NPRM Comment Period End 05/14/09
Final Action 05/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Christopher Rogers, Division Chief, Department of
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-
West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-9090
Fax: 301 713-9106
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AV51
_______________________________________________________________________
79. MAGNUSON-STEVENS FISHERY CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT REAUTHORIZATION
ACT (MSRA) ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW PROCEDURE
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: Section 107 of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and
Management Reauthorization Act (MSRA) (Pub. L. 109-479) requires NOAA
Fisheries to revise and update agency procedures for complying with the
National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) in the context of fishery
management actions. It further requires that NOAA Fisheries consult
with the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) and the Regional
Fishery Management Councils (Councils) and involve the public in the
development of the revised procedures. The MSRA provides that the
resulting procedures will be the sole environmental impact assessment
procedure for fishery management actions, and that they must conform to
the time lines for review and approval of fishery management plans and
plan amendments. They must also integrate applicable environmental
analytical procedures, including the time frames for public input, with
the procedure for the preparation and dissemination of fishery
management plans, plan amendments, and other actions taken or approved
pursuant to this Act in order to provide for timely, clear, and concise
analysis that is useful to decision makers and the public, reduce
extraneous paperwork, and effectively involve the public.
NOAA Fisheries is currently consulting with the councils, the public
and CEQ to develop a proposed procedure.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 05/14/08 73 FR 27998
NPRM Comment Period End 06/13/08
Final Action 05/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Steve Leathery, Department of Commerce, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver
Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2239
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AV53
_______________________________________________________________________
80. REVISE REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE NORTH PACIFIC GROUNDFISH OBSERVER
PROGRAM
Legal Authority: 118 Stat 110; 16 USC 773 et seq; 16 USC 1801 et seq;
16 USC 3631 et seq; PL 108-199
Abstract: This rulemaking revises Federal regulations relevant to
numerous administrative and procedural requirements applicable to
observer providers, observers, and industry participating in the North
Pacific Groundfish Observer Program. Specifically, this action would:
Modify the current permit issuance process so that observer and
observer provider permit issuance is a discretionary National Marine
Fisheries Service (NMFS) decision; amend current Federal regulations
addressing observer behavior involving drugs, alcohol, and physical
sexual conduct to remove NMFS oversight of observer behavior
[[Page 21762]]
that does not affect job performance; require that observer providers
submit policies related to these activities and continue to notify NMFS
upon learning of an incident; revise Federal regulations so that
observer providers are allowed to provide observers or technical staff
for purposes of exempted fishing permits, scientific research permits,
or other scientific research activities; revise the definition of
``fishing day'' in Federal regulations; require observer providers to
annually submit detailed economic information to NMFS; specify a date
by which observers who have collected data in the previous fishing year
would be required to be available for debriefing; and implement
housekeeping issues related to errors or clarifications in existing
regulations at 50 CFR 679.50.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 09/30/09 74 FR 50155
NPRM Comment Period End 10/31/09
Final Action 05/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AW24
_______________________________________________________________________
81. AMENDMENT 3 TO THE NORTHEAST SKATE COMPLEX FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: NMFS proposes regulations to implement measures in Amendment
3 to the Northeast Skate Complex Fishery Management Plan (Skate FMP).
Amendment 3 was developed by the New England Fishery Management Council
(Council) to rebuild overfished skate stocks (thorny and smooth skates)
and implement annual catch limits (ACLs) and accountability measures
(AMs) consistent with the requirements of the reauthorized Magnuson-
Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act. Amendment 3 would
establish an ACL and annual catch target (ACT) for the skate complex,
total allowable landings (TAL) for the skate wing and bait fisheries,
seasonal quotas for the bait fishery, reduced possession limits, in-
season possession limit triggers, and other measures to improve
management of the skate fisheries. This rule also includes skate
fishery specifications for fishing years (FY) 2010 through 2011.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 01/21/10 75 FR 3434
NPRM Comment Period End 02/22/10
Final Action 05/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AW30
_______________________________________________________________________
82. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES; ATLANTIC SHARK MANAGEMENT
MEASURES
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: This rule evaluates the management measures for small coastal
sharks (SCS) based on the results of the 2007 SCS stock assessment.
This rulemaking could consider, among other things, commercial quotas
and trip limits, recreational minimum size and bag limits, time/area
closures, and the public display quota. In addition, this rule
implements a rebuilding plan for blacknose sharks. To the extent that
blacknose sharks are caught in fisheries that are not targeted highly
migratory species fisheries, the National Marine Fisheries Service
(NMFS) will work with the appropriate Regional Fishery Management
Council, Interstate Commission, and States to implement regulations
through their processes to rebuild blacknose sharks. This action is
necessary in light of recent stock assessments, which have determined
that blacknose sharks are overfished with overfishing occurring. As
needed, this rule may include others items to clarify existing
regulations.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Intent 05/07/08 73 FR 25665
Notice of Scoping Meetings and
Extension of Comment Period 07/02/08 73 FR 37932
Notice of Intent Comment Period
End 08/05/08
Notice of Intent Comment Period
Extended--Second Extension 10/29/08 73 FR 64307
Notice of Intent Comment Period
Extension End 10/31/08
Second Extension Comment Period
End 11/14/08
NPRM 07/24/09 74 FR 36892
NPRM Comment Period Extended 08/10/09 74 FR 39914
NPRM Comment Period End 09/22/09
NPRM Comment Period Extended End09/25/09
Final Action 05/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Margo Schulze-Haugen, Department of Commerce, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver
Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-0234
Fax: 301 713-1917
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AW65
_______________________________________________________________________
83. AMENDMENT 31 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE REEF FISH
RESOURCES OF THE GULF OF MEXICO
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: In September 2008, NOAA's National Marine Fisheries Service
(NMFS) released a report based on observer data that indicated the
total number of loggerhead sea turtle takes by the eastern Gulf of
Mexico reef fish bottom longline fishery was much greater than that
authorized in the most recent biological opinion. In response, the Gulf
of Mexico Fishery Management Council (Council) requested NMFS take
emergency action to reduce the number of takes by the fishery during
the short term while the Council develops long-term measures in
Amendment 31. Measures being considered include: (1) Modifying baits;
(2) area, season, and depth restrictions;
[[Page 21763]]
(3) reducing effort through a longline endorsement program; and (4)
using observers or electronic monitoring to close the fishery once a
sea turtle take threshold has been met.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 01/15/10 75 FR 2469
NPRM Comment Period End 03/01/10
Final Action 05/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AX67
_______________________________________________________________________
84. SNAPPER-GROUPER FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN OF THE SOUTH ATLANTIC
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: This action would implement a prohibition on the harvest of
red snapper for 180 days to address overfishing of red snapper, through
interim measures.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 07/06/09 74 FR 31906
NPRM Comment Period End 08/05/09
Final Action 12/04/09 74 FR 63673
Final Action Effective 01/04/10
Extension of Final Action 06/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AX75
_______________________________________________________________________
85. FRAMEWORK ADJUSTMENT 44 AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR
THE NORTHEAST MULTISPECIES FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: Framework Adjustment 44 and Specifications will modify
management measures for the Northeast (NE) Multispecies Fishery
Management Plan (FMP) to make the FMP more precautionary, and implement
Annual Catch Limit (ACL) specifications for the fishery for fishing
years 2010, 2011, and 2012.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 02/01/10 75 FR 5016
NPRM Comment Period End 03/01/10
Final Action 05/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AY29
_______________________________________________________________________
86. FY 2010 ATLANTIC DEEP-SEA RED CRAB SPECIFICATIONS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: NMFS takes this action to establish the target total
allowable catch and days-at-sea allocation for FY 2010 for the red crab
fishery.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 02/19/10 75 FR 7435
NPRM Comment Period End 03/22/10
Final Action 05/00/10
Final Action Effective 06/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AY51
_______________________________________________________________________
87. PROVIDE REGULATIONS FOR PERMITS FOR CAPTURE, TRANSPORT, IMPORT, AND
EXPORT OF PROTECTED SPECIES FOR PUBLIC DISPLAY, AND FOR MAINTAINING A
CAPTIVE MARINE MAMMAL INVENTORY
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1372(c)
Abstract: This rule will revise and simplify criteria and procedures
specific to permits for taking, transporting, importing, and exporting
protected species for public display and provide convenient formats for
reporting marine mammal captive holdings and transports as required by
amendments made in 1994 to the Marine Mammal Protection Act.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 07/03/01 66 FR 35209
NPRM Comment Period Extended 08/22/01 66 FR 44109
NPRM Comment Period End 09/04/01
Comment Period Extended 11/02/01
Final Action 11/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Dr. Michael Payne, Fishery Biologist, Department of
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, P.O. Box
21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7235
Fax: 301 713-2521
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AH26
_______________________________________________________________________
88. PROTECTIVE REGULATIONS FOR KILLER WHALES IN THE NORTHWEST REGION
UNDER THE ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT AND MARINE MAMMAL PROTECTION ACT
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq; 16 USC 1531 to 1543
Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is considering
whether to propose regulations to protect killer whales (Orcinus orca)
in the Pacific Northwest. The Southern Resident killer whale distinct
population segment (DPS) was listed as endangered under the Endangered
Species Act (ESA) on November 18,
[[Page 21764]]
2005 (70 FR 69903). In the final rule announcing the listing, NMFS
identified vessel effects, including direct interference and sound, as
a potential contributing factor in the recent decline of this
population. Both the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) and the ESA
prohibit take, including harassment, of killer whales, but these
statutes do not prohibit specified acts. NMFS is now considering
whether to propose regulations that would prohibit certain acts, under
our general authorities under the ESA and MMPA and their implementing
regulations. The Proposed Recovery Plan for Southern Resident killer
whales (71 FR 69101; November 29, 2006) includes as a management action
the evaluation of current guidelines and the need for regulations and/
or protected areas. The scope of this ANPR encompasses the activities
of any person or conveyance that may result in the unauthorized taking
of killer whales and/or that may cause detrimental individual-level and
population-level impacts. NMFS requests comments on whether--and if so,
what type of--conservation measures, regulations, and, if necessary,
other measures would be appropriate to protect killer whales from the
effects of these activities.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
ANPRM 03/22/07 72 FR 13464
ANPRM Comment Period End 04/23/07
NPRM 07/29/09 74 FR 37674
NPRM Comment Period Extended 10/19/09 74 FR 53454
NPRM Comment Period End 10/27/09
NPRM Extended Comment Period End01/15/10
Final Rule 05/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: James H. Lecky, Director, Office of Protected
Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2332
Fax: 301 427-2520
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AV15
_______________________________________________________________________
89. RULEMAKING TO ESTABLISH TAKE PROHIBITIONS FOR THE THREATENED
SOUTHERN DISTINCT POPULATION SEGMENT OF NORTH AMERICAN GREEN STURGEON
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 to 1543
Abstract: Under section 4(d) of the Federal Endangered Species Act
(ESA), the Secretary of Commerce is required to adopt such regulations
as he deems necessary and advisable for the conservation of species
listed as threatened. This rule would apply the prohibitions under ESA
section 9(a)(1)(A) through 9(a)(1)(G) for threatened Southern DPS green
sturgeon, but would include certain exceptions and exemptions from the
take prohibitions. Exceptions are included for certain scientific
research, emergency fish rescue, law enforcement, and habitat
restoration activities that meet the criteria specified in the
protective regulations under Section 4(d) of the ESA for Southern DPS
green sturgeon. Exemptions are included for state scientific research,
fisheries activities, and tribal activities conducted under NMFS
approved ESA 4(d) programs. Thus, take of Southern DPS fish may be
authorized under ESA section 7 or 10, or under an exception or
exemption to the take prohibitions if the activities are conducted in
compliance with NMFS criteria or NMFS-approved plans.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 05/21/09 74 FR 23822
NPRM Comment Period End 07/20/09
Final Action 05/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Marta Nammack, Office of Protected Resources,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-1401
Fax: 301 427-2523
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AV94
_______________________________________________________________________
90. TAKING AND IMPORTING MARINE MAMMALS; U.S. NAVAL SURFACE WARFARE
CENTER PANAMA CITY DIVISION MISSION ACTIVITIES
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq
Abstract: On April 3, 2008, the National Marine Fisheries Service
(NMFS) received an application from the Navy requesting an
authorization for the take of 15 species/stocks of cetacean incidental
to the proposed mission activities in the Naval Surface Warfare Center
Panama City Division (NSWC PCD) study area over the course of 5 years.
These mission activities are classified as military readiness
activities. The purpose of the proposed mission activities is to
enhance NSWC PCD's capability and capacity to meet littoral and
expeditionary warfare requirements by providing Research, Development,
Test, and Evaluation (RDT&E) and in service engineering for
expeditionary maneuver warfare, operations in extreme environments,
mine warfare, maritime operations, and coastal operations. The Navy
states that these training activities may cause various impacts to
marine mammal species in the NSWC PCD study area. The Navy requests an
authorization to take individuals of these cetacean species by Level B
Harassment. Further, the Navy requests an authorization to take 1
individual each of bottlenose, Atlantic spotted, and pantropical
spotted dolphins per year by injury, as a result of the proposed
mission activities.
NMFS is issuing a proposed rule to govern the take of these marine
mammals by Level B harassment (behavior) and Level A harassment
(injury) incidental to the aforementioned mission activities in the
Naval NSWC PCD study area for a period of five years, under the
authority of section 101(a)(5)(A) of the Marine Mammal Protection Act.
Under that authority NMFS also must prescribe mitigation, monitoring,
and reporting requirements in connection with take authorizations.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 04/30/09 74 FR 20156
NPRM Comment Period End 06/01/09
Final Action 05/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Dr. Michael Payne, Fishery Biologist, Department of
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, P.O. Box
21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7235
Fax: 301 713-2521
[[Page 21765]]
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AW80
_______________________________________________________________________
91. RULE TO REVISE THE CRITICAL HABITAT DESIGNATION FOR THE ENDANGERED
LEATHERBACK SEA TURTLE
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq
Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service, announces a rule to
revise leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea) critical habitat under
the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended. The leatherback is
currently listed as endangered throughout its range, and critical
habitat consists of Sandy Point Beach and adjacent waters, St. Croix,
U.S. Virgin Islands. This rule would revise critical habitat to include
waters along the U.S. West Coast.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 01/05/10 75 FR 319
NPRM Comment Period Extension 02/19/10 75 FR 7434
NPRM Comment Period End 03/08/10
NPRM Comment Period Extension
End 04/19/10
Final Action 05/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Sara McNulty, Ecologist, Department of Commerce,
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West
Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2322
RIN: 0648-AX06
_______________________________________________________________________
92. CRITICAL HABITAT DESIGNATION FOR COOK INLET BELUGA WHALE UNDER THE
ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq
Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) listed the Cook
Inlet beluga whale Distinct Population Segment as endangered under the
Endangered Species Act on October 17, 2009. NMFS is required to
designate critical habitat no later than one year after the publication
of a listing. NMFS intends to publish a proposed rule by October 17,
2009.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
ANPRM 04/14/09 74 FR 17131
ANPRM Comment Period End 05/14/09
NPRM 12/02/09 74 FR 63080
NPRM Comment Period Extended 01/12/10 75 FR 1582
NPRM Comment Period End 02/01/10
Final Action 12/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Marta Nammack, Office of Protected Resources,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-1401
Fax: 301 427-2523
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AX50
_______________________________________________________________________
93. TAKING OF MARINE MAMMALS INCIDENTAL TO SPECIFIED ACTIVITIES; TAKING
MARINE MAMMALS INCIDENTAL TO TRAINING OPERATIONS CONDUCTED WITHIN THE
GULF OF MEXICO RANGE COMPLEX
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq
Abstract: NMFS has received requests from the U.S. Navy (Navy) for
authorizations for the taking of marine mammals incidental to training
and operational activities conducted by the Navy's Atlantic Fleet
within Gulf of Mexico (GOMEX) Range Complex for the period beginning
December 3, 2009, and ending December 2, 2014. Pursuant to the
implementing regulations of the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA),
NMFS is proposing regulations to govern that take and requesting
information, suggestions, and comments on these proposed regulations.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 07/14/09 74 FR 33960
NPRM Comment Period End 08/13/09
Final Action 05/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: James H. Lecky, Director, Office of Protected
Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2332
Fax: 301 427-2520
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AX86
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC) Long-Term Actions
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
_______________________________________________________________________
NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE
____________________________________________________
94. FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR REGULATING OFFSHORE MARINE AQUACULTURE
IN THE GULF OF MEXICO
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: The purpose of the amendment is to develop a regulatory
permitting process for regulating and promoting environmentally sound
and economically sustainable aquaculture in the Gulf Exclusive Economic
Zone. Management actions include: (1) Types of aquaculture permits
required; (2) duration aquaculture permits are effective; (3)
conditions for permit issuance; (4) species allowed for aquaculture;
(5) allowable aquaculture systems; (6) siting requirements and
conditions; (7) restricted access zones for aquaculture facilities; (8)
recordkeeping and reporting requirements; (9) biological reference
points and status determination criteria; and (10) framework procedures
for modifying status determination criteria and regulatory measures.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Availability 06/04/09 74 FR 26829
Notice of Availability Comment
Period End 08/03/09
NPRM To Be Determined
[[Page 21766]]
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AS65
_______________________________________________________________________
95. AMENDMENT 5 TO THE ATLANTIC HERRING FISHERY
MANAGEMENT PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: Amendment 5 to the Atlantic Herring Fishery Management Plan
will consider: catch monitoring program; Interactions with river
herring; access by herring midwater trawl vessels in groundfish closed
areas; and interactions with the mackerel fishery.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 09/00/11
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AY47
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC) Completed Actions
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
_______________________________________________________________________
96. FISHERIES IN THE WESTERN PACIFIC; PELAGIC FISHERIES; SQUID JIG
FISHERIES
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: This action designates pelagic squid as a management unit
species under the Western Pacific Pelagics Fishery Management Plan and
establishes permitting and reporting requirements.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Availability 08/11/08 73 FR 46581
NPRM 08/28/08 73 FR 50751
Notice Comment Period End 10/10/08
NPRM Comment Period End 10/14/08
Final Action 11/21/08 73 FR 70600
Collection of Information
Approval 09/04/09 74 FR 45756
Correction 03/03/10 75 FR 9531
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator,
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI
96814
Phone: 808 944-2207
Fax: 808 973-2941
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AS71
_______________________________________________________________________
97. MODIFYING MAXIMUM RETAINABLE AMOUNTS (MRAS) FOR SELECTED GROUNDFISH
SPECIES CAUGHT BY THE NON-AMERICAN FISHING ACT TRAWL CATCHER PROCESSOR
SECTOR
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service issues this action to
amend regulations specifying the current interval of time allowed for
determining the maximum retainable amount (MRA) of selected groundfish
species that can be retained by non-American Fishery Act trawl catcher
processors. This action would change MRA regulations located at 50 CFR
679.20(e) that establish the calculation of MRAs for groundfish species
that are closed to directed fishing by increasing the interval of time
each vessel in this sector would have to retain the MRA specified in
regulation for several species in the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands.
This action is intended to promote the goals and objectives of the
Fishery Management Plan (FMP) for Groundfish of the Bering Sea and
Aleutian Islands Management Area.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 02/13/09 74 FR 7209
NPRM Comment Period End 03/16/09
Final Rule 12/10/09 74 FR 65503
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AV32
_______________________________________________________________________
98. INITIAL IMPLEMENTATION OF THE WESTERN AND CENTRAL PACIFIC FISHERIES
CONVENTION IMPLEMENTATION ACT
Legal Authority: 44 USC 3501 et seq; PL 109-479
Abstract: This action will implement, in part, the Western and Central
Pacific Fisheries Convention (WCPFC) Implementation Act, which
authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to promulgate regulations needed
to carry out the obligations of the United States under the WCPFC. The
action will include regulations applicable to owners and operators of
U.S. vessels used to fish for highly migratory fish stocks in the
western and central Pacific Ocean, possibly including requirements to,
among others, obtain authorization to fish, carry position-fixing
transmitters as part of a vessel monitoring system, accommodate
observers from a regional observer program, report fishing activity,
accept boarding and inspection by authorized inspectors of other
members of the Commission, and prohibit transshipping at sea from purse
seine vessels.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 05/22/09 74 FR 23965
NPRM Comment Period End 06/22/09
Final Action 01/21/10 75 FR 3335
Correction 02/19/10 75 FR 7361
[[Page 21767]]
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Dr. Charles Karnella, Pacific Islands Area Office,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, Suite 1110, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI
96814-4700
Phone: 808 973-2985
Fax: 808 973-2941
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AV63
_______________________________________________________________________
99. AMENDMENT 15B TO THE SOUTH ATLANTIC FISHERY MANAGEMENT COUNCIL
SNAPPER GROUPER FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: Amendment 15B assesses the practicability of prohibiting the
sale of recreationally caught fish; assesses the practicability of
changes to the renewal period on commercial snapper grouper permits;
assesses the practicability of allowing one-to-one transfers of
commercial permits from an individual to a family-held corporation;
implements a plan to monitor and assess bycatch; implements measures to
minimize the impacts of incidental take on sea turtles and smalltooth
sawfish; updates management reference points for golden tilefish; and
defines allocation for snowy grouper and black sea bass.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Availability 06/04/09 74 FR 26827
NPRM 06/30/09 74 FR 31225
Comment Period End 08/03/09
NPRM Comment Period End 08/04/09
Final Action 11/16/09 74 FR 58902
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AW12
_______________________________________________________________________
100. FISHERIES IN THE WESTERN PACIFIC; WESTERN PACIFIC PELAGIC
FISHERIES; AMENDMENT 18 TO THE PELAGICS FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN;
SHALLOW-SET LONGLINE SWORDFISH FISHERY
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: Amendment 18 removes the annual limit on the number of
fishing gear deployments (sets) for the Hawaii-based pelagic longline
fishery. The amendment also revises the current maximum limit on the
number of physical interactions that occur annually between loggerhead
sea turtles and vessels registered for use under Hawaii longline
limited access permits while shallow-setting. Other measures currently
applicable to the fishery remain unchanged. Amendment 18 is intended to
increase opportunities for the shallow-set fishery to sustainably
harvest swordfish and other fish species, without jeopardizing the
continued existence of sea turtles and other protected resources.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Availability 03/18/09 74 FR 11518
Notice of Availability Comment
Period End 05/18/09
NPRM 06/19/09 74 FR 29158
NPRM Comment Period End 08/03/09
Final Action 12/10/09 74 FR 65460
Correction--Final Action 01/08/10 75 FR 1023
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator,
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI
96814
Phone: 808 944-2207
Fax: 808 973-2941
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AW49
_______________________________________________________________________
101. HALIBUT CHARTER VESSEL MORATORIUM
Legal Authority: 16 USC 773 to 773k
Abstract: This action implements a moratorium on the entry of
additional charter vessels into the guided sport fishery for Pacific
halibut in waters of International Pacific Halibut Commission
regulatory areas 2C (Southeast Alaska) and 3A (Central Gulf of Alaska).
This moratorium limits the number of charter vessels that may
participate in the guided sport fishery for halibut in these areas.
NMFS would issue a moratorium permit to a licensed charter vessel
fishing business owner based on his or her past participation in the
charter vessel fishery for halibut and to a Community Quota Entity
representing specific rural communities. All moratorium permit holders
would be subject to limits on the number of permits they could hold and
on the number of charter vessel anglers who could catch and retain
halibut on the permitted charter vessel. This action is proposed to
achieve the halibut fishery management goals of the North Pacific
Fishery Management Council. The intended effect is to curtail growth of
fishing capacity in the guided sport fishery for halibut.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 04/21/09 74 FR 18178
NPRM Comment Period End 06/05/09
Final Rule 01/05/10 75 FR 554
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Robert D. Mecum, Acting Administrator, Alaska Region,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AW92
_______________________________________________________________________
102. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES; 2009 NORTH AND SOUTH ATLANTIC
COMMERCIAL QUOTAS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: This rule establishes the 2009 fishing season quotas for
North and South Atlantic swordfish based on recent updated landings
information and recommendations from the 2008 annual meeting of the
International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas
(ICCAT). This rule is necessary to ensure that current swordfish quotas
account for underharvests and reserve transfer from the 2008 fishing
year, consistent with regulations at 50 CFR part 635 and ICCAT
recommendations that establish
[[Page 21768]]
the U.S. North and South Atlantic swordfish allocations. This rule may
also include other minor regulatory clarifications.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 08/05/09 74 FR 39032
NPRM Comment Period End 09/04/09
Final Rule 12/16/09 74 FR 66585
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Margo Schulze-Haugen, Department of Commerce, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver
Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-0234
Fax: 301 713-1917
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AX07
_______________________________________________________________________
103. AMENDMENT 29 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR REEF FISH RESOURCES
OF THE GULF OF MEXICO
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: Grouper and tilefish species in the Gulf of Mexico are
managed under the reef fish fishery management plan. Past management
practices under the plan have contributed to overcapitalization in
these fisheries, which the Council now seeks to address. The amendment
creates an individual fishing quota (IFQ) program to further control
effort in the commercial grouper and tilefish fisheries in the Gulf of
Mexico. The IFQ program was supported by over 80 percent of all
eligible fishermen voting in a referendum for the IFQ program. The
proposed rule would implement the IFQ program, establish design
elements for the program, and allow consolidation of commercial permit
landings history through permit stacking.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 04/30/09 74 FR 20134
NPRM Comment Period End 06/15/09
Final Rule 08/31/09 74 FR 44732
Supplemental NPRM 12/10/09 74 FR 65500
Supplemental NPRM Comment Period
End 01/11/10
Second Final Rule 03/01/10 75 FR 9116
Final Rule Effective 03/31/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 263 Thirteenth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AX39
_______________________________________________________________________
104. WESTERN AND CENTRAL PACIFIC FISHERIES FOR HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES;
IMPLEMENTATION OF THE LONGLINE CATCH LIMITS ADOPTED AT THE FIFTH SESSION
OF THE WESTERN AND CENTRAL PACIFIC FISHERIES COMMISSION
Legal Authority: 16 USC 6901 et seq
Abstract: This rule implements the decisions adopted at the Fifth
Session of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission
(Commission) to reduce or otherwise control the fishing mortality rate
from longline fishing of bigeye tuna and potentially other highly
migratory fish species in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean.
Pursuant to the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Convention
Implementation Act, the Secretary of Commerce is authorized to
implement regulations to carry out the obligations of the United States
under the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Convention
(Convention), including the implementation of Commission decisions. At
its Fifth Regular Session, in December 2008, the Commission adopted
specific catch limits in longline fisheries for certain highly
migratory fish species in the Convention's area of application for
2009, 2010, and 2011. This rule fulfills the international obligations
of the United States regarding these catch limits. Moreover, this rule
could establish a framework for implementing future Commission
decisions of a similar nature.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 07/08/09 74 FR 32521
NPRM Comment Period End 08/07/09
Final Rule 12/07/09 74 FR 63999
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Dr. Charles Karnella, Pacific Islands Area Office,
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, Suite 1110, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI
96814-4700
Phone: 808 973-2985
Fax: 808 973-2941
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AX59
_______________________________________________________________________
105. FISHERIES OFF WEST COAST STATES; PACIFIC COAST GROUNDFISH FISHERY;
DATA COLLECTION FOR THE TRAWL RATIONALIZATION PROGRAM
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: NMFS plans to collect data to support implementation of a
future trawl rationalization program under the Pacific Coast Groundfish
Fishery Management Plan (FMP). NMFS may collect ownership information
from all potential participants in the trawl rationalization program.
In addition, NMFS is notifying potential participants on notice that
the agency intends to use the Pacific States Marine Fisheries
Commission's Pacific Fisheries Information Network (PacFIN) and the
NMFS, Northwest Fisheries Science Center's Pacific whiting observer
(NORPAC) databases to determine initial allocation of quota share for
the trawl rationalization program.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 10/16/09 74 FR 47545
NPRM Comment Period End 10/16/09
Final Action 01/29/10 75 FR 4684
Final Action Effective 03/01/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Frank Lockhart, Program Analyst, Department of
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand
Point Way NE., Seattle, WA 98115
Phone: 206 526-6142
Fax: 206 526-6736
[[Page 21769]]
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AX98
_______________________________________________________________________
106. AMENDMENT 10 TO THE ATLANTIC MACKEREL, SQUID, AND BUTTERFISH
FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq
Abstract: The purpose of Amendment 10 is to: (1) Develop a rebuilding
program that allows the butterfish stock to rebuild in the shortest
amount of time possible (but not to exceed ten years) and permanently
protects the long-term health and stability of the rebuilt stock; (2)
minimize bycatch and the fishing mortality of unavoidable bycatch, to
the extent practicable, in mackerel, squid, and butterfish (MSB)
fisheries; and (3) minimize the race to fish and promote efficient use
of fishing capital in Loligo and Illex fisheries while providing a
means for the industry to proactively engage in resource governance and
to provide greater flexibility in developing management measures that
fit localized needs through the development of sectors in the Loligo
and Illex fisheries.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Availability 07/13/09 74 FR 33986
NPRM 09/03/09 74 FR 45597
NPRM Comment Period End 10/19/09
Final Action 03/11/10 75 FR 11441
Final Action Effective 04/12/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AY00
_______________________________________________________________________
107. FISHING RESTRICTIONS IN THE LONGLINE AND PURSE SEINE FISHERIES IN
THE EASTERN PACIFIC OCEAN IN 2009, 2010, AND 2011
Legal Authority: 16 USC 951-961 ; 16 USC 971 et seq
Abstract: NMFS is proposing regulations under the Tuna Conventions Act
of 1950 to implement a resolution adopted by the Inter-American
Tropical Tuna Commission (IATTC Resolution C-09-01). That resolution
requires that the United States restrict the catch of bigeye tuna in
the longline fishery and the effort in the purse seine fishery in the
eastern Pacific Ocean in each of the years 2009, 2010, and 2011 to
prevent overfishing of bigeye and yellowfin tuna. First, NMFS would
implement a 500 metric ton (mt) catch limit on bigeye tuna caught by
longline vessels greater than 24 meters in length in the IATTC
Convention Area in 2009, 2010, and 2011. Second, NMFS would prohibit
purse seine vessels of class size 4-6 (carrying capacity greater than
182 metric tons) from fishing for yellowfin, bigeye, and skipjack tunas
in the IATTC Convention Area for a period of 59 days in 2009, 62 days
in 2010, and 73 days in 2011. Notwithstanding this closure, purse seine
vessels of class size 4 (between 182 and 272 mt carrying capacity) may
make a single fishing trip of up to 30 days during the closed period.
Third, class size 4-6 purse seine vessels would be prohibited from
fishing for yellowfin, bigeye, and skipjack tunas between 96[deg] and
100[deg] W. longitude and between 4[deg] N. and 3[deg] S. latitude from
September 29 to through October 29 for 2009, 2010, and 2011. And
lastly, class size 4-6 purse seine vessels would continue to be
required to retain all tuna caught unless it is unfit for human
consumption for reasons other than size (which continues a long-term
requirement).
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 10/19/09 74 FR 53455
NPRM Comment Period End 11/09/09
Final Rule 11/23/09 74 FR 61046
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Heidi Hermsmeyer, Department of Commerce, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 501 West Ocean Boulevard, Long
Beach, CA 90802
Phone: 562 980-4036
Fax: 562 980-4047
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AY08
_______________________________________________________________________
108. 2010 ATLANTIC MACKEREL, SQUID, AND BUTTERFISH FISHERY
SPECIFICATIONS AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: NMFS would implement specifications for the 2010 fishing year
for Atlantic mackerel, squid, and butterfish (MSB). The intent of this
action is to fulfill this requirement and to promote the development
and conservation of the MSB resources.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/12/09 74 FR 58234
NPRM Comment Period End 12/14/09
Final Action 02/03/10 75 FR 5537
Final Action Effective 03/05/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 55 Great Republic Way, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200
Fax: 978 281-9117
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AY13
_______________________________________________________________________
109. 2010 PACIFIC HALIBUT FISHERIES; CATCH SHARING
PLAN
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801
Abstract: NMFS takes this action to approve and implement changes to
the Pacific Halibut Catch Sharing Plan (Plan) for the International
Pacific Halibut Commission's (IPHC or Commission) regulatory Area 2A
off Washington, Oregon, and California (Area 2A). NMFS proposes to
implement the portions of the Plan and management measures that are not
implemented through the IPHC, which includes tribal regulations and the
sport fishery allocations and management measures for Area 2A. These
actions are intended to enhance the conservation of Pacific halibut, to
provide greater angler opportunity where available, and to protect
yelloweye rockfish and other overfished groundfish species from
incidental catch in the halibut fisheries.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 02/04/10 75 FR 5745
[[Page 21770]]
NPRM Comment Period End 02/19/10
Final Action 03/18/10 75 FR 13024
Final Action Effective 04/19/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Barry Thom, Fishery Biologist, Office of Protected
Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-1401
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AY31
_______________________________________________________________________
110. HARBOR PORPOISE TAKE REDUCTION PLAN REGULATIONS
Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq
Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service is taking this action
to reduce the number of harbor porpoise taken in sink gillnet fisheries
in the Gulf of Maine and Mid-Atlantic. The Harbor Porpoise Take
Reduction Plan of 1999 implemented measures to reduce the incidental
capture of harbor porpoises in sink gillnets to below the stock's
Potential Biological Removal level (PBR). Measures included management
areas in which deterrent devices (pingers) are required on gillnets;
gear modifications; and seasonal closures. Between 2001 and 2005,
incidental takes of harbor porpoise showed an increasing trend, and
currently takes exceed PBR. This action would implement measures
developed through discussions with the Harbor Porpoise Take Reduction
Team, which was reconvened in 2007, when it was clear that existing
measures were not sufficient to keep porpoise bycatch to below PBR. For
the Gulf of Maine, this action would expand pinger use in Massachusetts
Bay to include November; establish Stellwagen Bank Management Area,
requiring pingers from November-May; establish Coastal Gulf of Maine
Consequence Closure Area and require closure in October and November
only if, after the most current two years, the average bycatch rate
exceeds the trigger rate of .031, identified from observed compliant
boats from the Mid-Coast, Massachusetts Bay, and Stellwagen Bank
Management Areas; create Southern New England Management Area (includes
current Cape Cod South Management Area); require pingers from December-
May; establish Cape Cod South Expansion and Eastern Cape Cod
Consequence Closure Areas; and require closure from February-April only
if, after the most current two years, the average bycatch rate exceeds
the trigger rate of 0.023, identified from observed compliant vessels
fishing in the Southern New England Management Area. For the Mid
Atlantic, this action would establish Mudhole South Management Area;
close from February 1-March 15; and modify the tie-down requirement.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 07/21/09 74 FR 36058
Correction 08/10/09 74 FR 39910
NPRM Comment Period End 08/20/09
Final Action 02/19/10 75 FR 7383
Final Action Delay of Effective
Date 03/17/10 75 FR 12698
Final Action Effective 03/22/10
Final Action Delay of Effective
Date End 09/15/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Melissa Andersen, Department of Commerce, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver
Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2322
Fax: 301 713-2521
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0648-AW51
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC) Proposed Rule Stage
Patent and Trademark Office (PTO)
_______________________________________________________________________
111. REVISION OF USPTO FEES FOR FISCAL YEAR 2011
Legal Authority: 35 USC 41; 35 USC 119 and 120; 35 USC 132(b) and 376;
PL 109-383; PL 110-116; PL 110-137; PL 110-149; PL 110-161; PL 110-5;
PL 110-92
Abstract: The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is
taking this action to adjust certain patent and trademark fee amounts
set in the aggregate to recover the estimated cost to the USPTO for
processing activities and services and materials relating to patents
and trademarks, respectively, including proportionate shares of the
administrative costs of the USPTO.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 05/00/10
NPRM Comment Period End 07/00/10
Final Action 10/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Walter Schlueter, Budget Analyst--Fees and Forecasting,
Department of Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, P.O. Box 1450,
Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: 571 272-6299
Fax: 571 273-6299
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0651-AC43
_______________________________________________________________________
112. REVISION OF USPTO FEES FOR FISCAL YEAR 2012
Legal Authority: 35 USC 41; 35 USC 119 and 120; 35 USC 132(b) and 376;
PL 109-383; PL 110-116; PL 110-137; PL 110-149; PL 110-161; PL 110-5;
PL 110-92
Abstract: The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is
taking this action to adjust certain patent and trademark fee amounts
set in the aggregate to recover the estimated cost to the USPTO for
processing activities and services and materials relating to patents
and trademarks, respectively, including proportionate shares of the
administrative costs of the USPTO.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/10
NPRM Comment Period End 02/00/11
Final Action 06/00/11
Final Action Effective 07/00/11
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
[[Page 21771]]
Agency Contact: Walter Schlueter, Budget Analyst--Fees and Forecasting,
Department of Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, P.O. Box 1450,
Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: 571 272-6299
Fax: 571 273-6299
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0651-AC44
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC) Final Rule Stage
Patent and Trademark Office (PTO)
_______________________________________________________________________
113. INTERIM INCREASE ON PATENT FEES FOR FISCAL YEAR
2011
Legal Authority: 35 USC 41; 35 USC 119 and 120; 35 USC 132(b); 35 USC
376; PL 109-383; PL 110-116; PL 110-137; PL 110-149; PL 110-161; PL
110-5; PL 110-92
Abstract: The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is
proposing an interim increase on certain patent fees to fund the
requirements for putting the USPTO on a sustainable path to fund agency
operations, reduce patent inventory and pendency, and invest in
information technology.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action 10/00/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Walter Schlueter, Budget Analyst--Fees and Forecasting,
Department of Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, P.O. Box 1450,
Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: 571 272-6299
Fax: 571 273-6299
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0651-AC42
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Commerce (DOC) Completed Actions
Patent and Trademark Office (PTO)
_______________________________________________________________________
114. EXAMINATION OF PATENT APPLICATIONS THAT INCLUDE CLAIMS CONTAINING
ALTERNATIVE LANGUAGE
Legal Authority: 35 USC 2(b)(2)
Abstract: The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (Office) is considering
revising the rules of practice to address Markush-type and other claims
written so as to claim an invention in the alternative. The search and
examination of Markush-type and other claims written in the alternative
generally consume a disproportionate amount of Office resources as
compared to other types of claims, because these claims can encompass
multiple independent and distinct inventions and determining the
patentability of such a claim may require a separate examination of
each of the alternatives within the claim. The Office anticipates that
requiring applicants who choose this claim-drafting format to ensure a
certain degree of relatedness among the members of a Markush group or
the alternatives presented in the claims will allow the Office to do a
better, more thorough, and reliable examination of Markush-type and
other claims written in the alternative.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 08/10/07 72 FR 44992
NPRM Comment Period End 10/09/07
Initial Regulatory Flexibility
Analysis Comment Request 03/10/08 73 FR 12679
NPRM Comment Period End 04/09/08
Withdrawn 01/25/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr, Acting Associate Commissioner for
Patent Examination Policy, Department of Commerce, Patent and Trademark
Office, P.O. Box 1450, Alexandria, VA 22313
Phone: 571 272-8800
Fax: 571 273-0125
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0651-AC00
_______________________________________________________________________
115. FISCAL YEAR 2009 REVISION OF REQUEST FOR CONTINUED EXAMINATION, 18-
MONTH PUBLICATION, AND OTHER MISCELLANEOUS COST-RECOVERY PATENT FEES
Legal Authority: 35 USC 2(b)(2); 35 USC 41(d); 35 USC 132(b)
Abstract: The USPTO is taking this action to revise the rules of
practice to adjust the fee or set a fee for certain processes and
services for which the USPTO is required to set a cost-recovery fee.
The USPTO is specifically adjusting the fee for a request for continued
examination, 18-month publication, and a certificate of correction
(applicant's mistake) fee, and set a fee for requesting a corrected
republication of a patent application publication. The rules of
practice currently do not set a fee, or do not set a fee that recovers
the USPTO's costs, for these processes or services. The USPTO is
adjusting or setting these fee amounts such that they more accurately
reflect the Office costs for these processes or services.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Withdrawn 01/25/10
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr, Acting Associate Commissioner for
Patent Examination Policy, Department of Commerce, Patent and Trademark
Office, P.O. Box 1450, Alexandria, VA 22313
Phone: 571 272-8800
Fax: 571 273-0125
Email: [email protected]
RIN: 0651-AC29
[FR Doc. 2010-8930 Filed 04-23-10; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3510-12-S