Gillnet Closure to Protect Right Whales; Public Comments Invited on Proposed Rule

November 21, 2006

Release from:
NOAA

Earlier this year, NOAA Fisheries enacted temporary restrictions on gillnet fishing from February 15 - March 31, 2006, following the fatal entanglement of a right whale in the calving area. Since that time, NOAA has collected and analyzed additional information with assistance from members of the Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Team. A new proposed rule would establish permanent measures to address the risks from increased gillnet effort in the only known calving area for North Atlantic right whales. Send comments on this proposed rule to sewhalerule.comments@noaa.gov by 5pm on December 15, 2006; please include RIN 0648-AU90 in the subject line of the message.

In the meantime, an emergency rule is in effect to prohibit gillnet fishing or gillnet possession in a specified area off the Southeast U.S. coast. An exemption to the prohibition on the possession of gillnet gear is provided for transiting through this area if gear is properly stowed. This temporary measure is effective through April 15, 2007, to ensure adequate protection for right whale mothers and calves during the upcoming calving season. Gillnet fishermen may also call (727) 824-5312 for updated information on gillnet restrictions along the Southeast U.S. coast.

For more information, read the NOAA news release or contact Laura.Engleby@noaa.gov.