Final Rule Implements Rockfish Pilot Program in Central Gulf of Alaska

November 28, 2006

Release from:
NOAA

NOAA Fisheries has published a final rule to implement Amendment 68 to the Fishery Management Plan for Groundfish of the Gulf of Alaska . Trawl industry representatives, primarily from Kodiak, AK, initiated the development of this program in conjunction with catcher/processor representatives. The goal is to improve the economic efficiency of the Central Gulf of Alaska rockfish fisheries. The program is authorized for two years, from January 1, 2007, until December 31, 2008. It provides exclusive harvesting and processing privileges for a specific set of rockfish species and for associated species harvested incidentally to those rockfish in the Central Gulf of Alaska.

The program allows harvesters to choose when to fish, so that they can take advantage of market factors and avoid dangerous fishing conditions. The program is also expected to result in a slower-paced fishery, providing greater stability for processors by spreading out production over a longer period and increasing product quality in all sectors. NOAA made a number of changes to the program as a result of earlier public comments.

For more information, read the final rule or contact Glenn.Merrill@noaa.gov.