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DOC/NOAA RIN: 0648-BD92 Publication ID: Spring 2015 
Title: Pacific Coast Groundfish Fisheries; Seabird Avoidance 
Abstract: The rule would implement a Seabird Avoidance Program in the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery. The regulations are specifically designed to minimize the take of ESA-listed short-tailed albatross. A 2012 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Biological Opinion requires the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) to implement regulations within two years mandating the use of seabird avoidance measures by vessels greater than or equal to 55 feet length overall using bottom longline gear to harvest groundfish. The seabird avoidance measures, including streamer lines that prevent birds from ingesting baited hooks, are modeled after a similar regulatory program in effect for the Alaskan groundfish fishery. NMFS has established a program to provide the streamer lines free of charge to the industry. 
Agency: Department of Commerce(DOC)  Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant 
RIN Status: Previously published in the Unified Agenda Agenda Stage of Rulemaking: Final Rule Stage 
Major: No  Unfunded Mandates: No 
CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660   
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.   
Legal Deadline:  None
Timetable:
Action Date FR Cite
NPRM  09/09/2014  79 FR 53401   
Final Action  09/00/2015 
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No  Government Levels Affected: None 
Small Entities Affected: No  Federalism: No 
Included in the Regulatory Plan: No 
RIN Data Printed in the FR: No 
Agency Contact:
William Stelle Jr.
Regional Administrator, West Coast Region
Department of Commerce
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
7600 Sand Point Way Northeast, Building 1,
Seattle, WA 98115
Phone:206 526-6150
Email: will.stelle@noaa.gov