South Atlantic Electronic For-Hire Reporting Informational Sessions Scheduled for 2018

October 30, 2018 — The following was released by the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council:

KEY MESSAGE:

• NOAA Fisheries is developing an electronic reporting program for permit holders who have a South Atlantic Federal charter/headboat for-hire permit for snapper-grouper, dolphin wahoo, or coastal migratory pelagics fisheries.
• The final rule for the program has not published but these requirements are expected to be effective in 2019.
• Once implemented, this electronic reporting program will require the owners and operators of all charter vessels issued South Atlantic Federal permits to report information about their trips and catch on a weekly basis.
• NOAA Fisheries will be holding informational sessions on the electronic reporting program in the locations listed below.
• During these informational sessions, NOAA Fisheries and South Atlantic Fishery Management Council staff will review the electronic reporting program requirements, including how to submit reports electronically, and where to report if you hold Federal for-hire permits in different regions.
• All informational sessions begin at 6:00 pm with a presentation from staff. After the presentation, there will be time for questions about the program.
• These informational sessions are not mandatory but will provide useful information about the upcoming electronic reporting program.
• For more information about the Electronic Reporting Program, please  visit: www.fisheries.noaa.gov/southeast/et or, contact Karla Gore at (727) 824-5305 or karla.gore@noaa.gov.