South Atlantic Fishery Management Council

Comprehensive Acceptable Biological Catch Control Rule Amendment

Included amendments

  • Dolphin Wahoo Amendment 11
  • Golden Crab Amendment 11
  • Snapper Grouper Amendment 45

Amendment Summary

Purpose of Amendment: To modify the ABC Control Rule to address flexibility allowed under the MSA and revise how uncertainty and risk tolerance are addressed in setting ABCs.

Action Summary: modify the ABC Control Rule, including specification of scientific uncertainty and management risk components, application of the Control Rule to rebuilding stocks, criteria and procedures for phase-in of ABC changes, criteria and procedures for carry-over of unused portions of the annual catch limit, and establishment a framework procedure to allow carry-overs.

Key Events: 

  • December 2016: work on a plan amendment initiated
  • 2017 and 2018: Council and SSC provided guidance on various aspects of the amendment
  • January 2019: Scoping hearings were held.
  • December 2020 and March 2021: Council provided additional guidance to staff.
  • October 2020 and April 2021: SSC provided input.
  • September 2021: Council received additional comments from the SSC, reviewed actions and alternatives language modifying the ABC Control rule (Action 1) and carry-overs (Actions 3 and 4).
  • March 2022: Council reviewed draft language for modifying the ABC Control rule (Action 1) and carry-overs (Actions 3 and 4).
  • June 2022: Council reviewed the draft amendment (all actions) and approved for public hearings.
  • September 2022: Public hearings held. Council selected preferred alternatives and approved all actions.
  • December 2022: approved for submission.
  • June 2023: Amendment submitted.
  • December 2023: Amendment approved 12/8/2023.

Most recent amendment document