Snapper Grouper Amendment 18B
Amendment Summary
Limited participation and effort in the golden tilefish commercial sector through the establishment of a longline endorsement; modified trip limits; specified allocations for gear groups (75% longline and 25% hook and line).
Amendment documents
Implemented Regulations
- Limited golden tilefish effort through a golden tilefish longline endorsement program: distribute golden tilefish longline endorsements to SG permit holders that qualify under the eligibility requirements.
- To recieve a GT longline endorsement the individual must have an average of 5,000 lbs gw GT caught (with longline gear) for the best 3 years within the period 2006 through 2011.
- A period of 90 days will be set aside to accept appeals to the GT endorsement program starting on the effective date of this amendment.
- Allocated 75% of the commercial ACL to the longline gear sector and 25% to the hook and line sector.
- Allowed transferability of GT longline endorsement.
- Removed the 300 lb gw trip limit when 75% of the ACL is harvested.
- Established a trip limit of 500 lbs gw for the GT component of the SG fishery for commercial fishermen who do not receive a longline endorsement. Vessels with GT longline endorsement are not eligible to fish under this trip limit with other gear.
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The Council identifies management needs and develop actions and alternatives.
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The Council facilitates a designated public comment opportunity on the draft amendment.
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The Council votes to approve the amendment and send it to NOAA Fisheries.
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NOAA Fisheries reviews the amendment and publishes proposed and final rules, with public comment periods.
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The final rule is in effect.