April 23, 2018 — The following was released by the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council:
Written comments due by May 18, 2018
The Council is soliciting public comment on options for changes to current sea turtle release gear types for use in handling and releasing incidentally caught sea turtles. Vessels with Commercial or For-Hire South Atlantic Snapper Grouper Federal Permits are required to follow the sea turtle release gear requirements.
The proposed changes provide additional options for approved gear. The new gear would require less space on vessels while still providing the necessary function. These new gear types are only additional options, and not the only gear that industry may use to satisfy the current regulatory requirements.
Learn More
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 the online public comment form available from the link above. Written comments are due by 5 p.m. on May 18, 2018.
See the Story Map for Amendment 42 for a quick overview of proposed options.
Scoping Meetings via Webinar Begin Today!
In addition to the information available online, the Council is offering 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.
Learn more about the SAFMC by visiting their site here.