Fisheries of the Exclusive Economic Zone Off Alaska; Extension of the Interim Groundfish Observer Program through December 31, 2002

Résumé

NMFS issues a final rule to extend through 2002 the regulations implementing the Interim North Pacific Groundfish Observer Program (Interim Observer Program), which otherwise would expire December 31, 2000. This action is necessary to ensure uninterrupted observer coverage through December 31, 2002. The intention is to advance the management objectives of the Fishery Management Plan for the Groundfish Fishery of the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands Area and the Fishery Management Plan for Groundfish of the Gulf of Alaska (FMPs). This final rule does not amend the existing regulations, except to extend the certifications of observer contractors who are currently certified by NMFS.