Final Rule: Framework Action to Update Private Angling Red Snapper Calibrations and Gray Snapper Catch Limits in the Gulf of Mexico

NOAA Fisheries is implementing a final rule for a framework action under the Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish Resources of the Gulf of Mexico (Gulf) to update the private angling red snapper calibration ratios and increase Gulf gray snapper catch limits. 

Queen Conch Recovery Workshops in the U.S. Caribbean and Florida

April 30, 2024 NOAA Fisheries

NOAA Fisheries is in the early stages of developing a recovery plan for queen conch, which was recently listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act. To gather stakeholder input on recovering the species, NOAA Fisheries will host a series of workshops throughout the Caribbean, including in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Florida. These workshops will be in-person and open to the public.

Revised Reporting Requirements for Federally Permitted Seafood Dealers

September 7, 2023 NOAA Fisheries

For those who do not have access to electronic reporting, federal regulations provide for individual fishing quota (IFQ) paper-based reporting in the event of catastrophic conditions. These regulations require NOAA Fisheries to determine when the catastrophic conditions exist, the duration of the catastrophic conditions, and which participants or geographic areas are affected. Participants must continue to use the electronic system if it is accessible.

NOAA Fisheries: Introducing the New Pacific Cod Trawl Cooperative Program

August 29, 2023 NOAA Fisheries

Amendment 122 to the Fishery Management Plan for Groundfish of the Bering Sea Aleutian Islands (BSAI) Management Area allocates Pacific cod harvest quota share to qualifying groundfish License Limitation Program (LLP) license holders and qualifying processors. It requires participants to form cooperatives to harvest the quota.

NOAA Fisheries Releases National Seafood Strategy

August 11, 2023 NOAA Fisheries

The strategy highlights the vital services we provide to support the seafood sector and outlines ways we can enhance its resilience in the face of climate change and other stressors.