🎣New Regulations for South Atlantic Red Snapper Fishing Proposed
Fisheries of the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, and South Atlantic; Snapper-Grouper Fishery of the South Atlantic; Amendment 59
Summary
NMFS proposes regulations to implement Amendment 59 to the Fishery Management Plan (FMP) for the Snapper-Grouper Fishery of the South Atlantic (Snapper-Grouper FMP) (Amendment 59). If approved, Amendment 59 and this proposed rule would, for South Atlantic red snapper: revise the fishing mortality (F) at maximum sustainable yield (MSY) proxy for determining overfishing, acceptable biological catch (ABC), sector annual catch limits (ACLs), fishing year, sector fishing season start dates, recreational fishing season structure, commercial trip limits, and establish an annual experimental studies program. Additionally, Amendment 59 and this proposed rule would establish a snapper-grouper discard reduction season in South Atlantic Federal waters. This action is intended to end and prevent overfishing of red snapper while reducing dead discards and providing additional fishing opportunities.
Agencies
- Commerce Department
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Business Impact
$$ - Med
The proposed rule implements new regulations affecting red snapper fisheries, including changes to catch limits, a discard reduction season, and revised fishing seasons. These directly impact commercial and recreational fishing businesses, requiring compliance with new regulations, which can affect profitability and operational planning.