NOAA Fisheries Service invites the public to comment on an Environmental Assessment to conduct research with a limited number of pelagic longline vessels in two areas of the South East Atlantic Ocean that have been closed to fishing since 2001.
"In less than a decade, we have nearly rebuilt swordfish and dramatically reduced bycatch of sea turtles and other species by requiring that pelagic longline fishermen use new fishing techniques," said William T. Hogarth, director of NOAA Fisheries Service. "Now it is time for us to examine whether these techniques can be used in the closed areas with the same success."
Because these areas have been closed to pelagic longline fishing since 2001, the agency does not have baseline data on how effective several newly introduced fishing measures designed to reduce the unintended catch of sea turtles and other non-target species would be in portions of the East Florida Coast and Charlestown Bump areas. The proposed research would be conducted under strict scientific protocols using a limited number of vessels (approximately two) with 100 percent observer coverage.
In 2004, NOAA required pelagic longline vessels to use specific circle hooks and baits designed to reduce bycatch of sea turtles and other non-target species. The regulations also required certain types of release equipment be used to remove fishing gear from any animals captured incidentally. These measures have significantly reduced the unintended catch of sea turtles or their deaths and have likely aided in the rebuilding of swordfish - one of the great successes of fishery management of a highly migratory species.
"We are hopeful that these new fishing methods will significantly reduce bycatch in the closed areas as well," Hogarth said. "This research is designed to answer that question."
NMFS will accept comments on the Environmental Assessment and proposed research until Nov. 20, 2007. To read the EA, go to http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/sfa/hms/breaking_news.htm. Comments can be addressed to: Chris Rilling, NOAA Fisheries, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910 or at 301-713-2347.
