NMFS Publishes Regulations to Enhance Observer Program for Groundfish Fisheries in Alaska

Summary

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries (NMFS) has published new regulations to improve the effectiveness of the North Pacific Groundfish Observer Program, which monitors fishing activities in the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands, as well as the Gulf of Alaska. The new rules aim to address data quality and cost equity concerns, ensuring that the program aligns with the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act and other relevant laws.