NMFS Proposes Closure of Atlantic Pelagic Drift Gillnet Fishery to Protect Northern Right Whale

Summary

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) proposes to close the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast Coastal segments of the Atlantic pelagic drift gillnet fishery for swordfish, tuna, and shark until July 31, 1998, to protect the endangered northern right whale. This action aims to implement reasonable and prudent alternatives to avoid jeopardy to the species' continued existence.