Pelagic Fisheries of the Western Pacific Region; Vessel Monitoring System

Zusammenfassung

NMFS issues a final rule implementing an experimental vessel monitoring program in the pelagic longline fishery around Hawaii using an electronic vessel monitoring system (VMS). Under this program, vessels operating in this fishery, upon notification by NMFS, are required to carry vessel monitoring equipment owned and installed by NMFS. Such equipment allows a vessel to be identified and its location monitored by satellite. Such information will be used by NMFS and the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) in the enforcement of regulations that prohibit fishing in closed areas. This experimental program, which is to run for 3 years or less, is needed so that the Western Pacific Fishery Management Council (Council) and NMFS can evaluate the performance and cost-effectiveness of VMSs and make recommendations regarding the future use of VMSs in this and other fisheries.