April 20, 2018 — The following was released by the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council:
The South Atlantic Fishery Management Council is soliciting public comment on options for changes to current turtle release gear requirements and protocol. Vessels with Commercial or For-Hire South Atlantic Snapper Grouper Federal Permits already have requirements for such gear.
The proposed changes in Amendment 42 to the Snapper Grouper Fishery Management Plan provide additional options for approved gear. The new gear would require less space on vessels while still providing the necessary function.
Additional information, including the Amendment 42 Scoping Document, Overview, and Video Presentation is available from the Council’s website at: http://safmc.net/safmc-meetings/public-hearings-scoping-meetings/.
Comments may be submitted via an online public comment form available from the link above. Written comments are due by May 18, 2018.
Scoping Meetings via Webinar
In addition to the information available online, the Council will offer two public scoping webinars, each beginning at 6:00 PM. Registration is required.
Monday, April 23
Tuesday, April 24
During the scoping meetings, Council staff will present an overview of the proposed changes and will be available for informal discussions and to answer questions via webinar. Members of the public will have an opportunity to go on record to record their comments for consideration by the Council.
See the Story Map for Amendment 43 for a quick overview of proposed options. Contact Christina Wiegand at Christina.Wiegand@safmc.net or call the Council office at 843/224-7258 with any questions.