Coral and Coral Reefs of the Gulf of Mexico and South Atlantic

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NMFS issues this proposed rule to implement Amendment 2 to the Fishery Management Plan for Coral and Coral Reefs of the Gulf of Mexico and South Atlantic (FMP). Amendment 2 would prohibit the taking of wild live rock in the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) off the southern Atlantic states (South Atlantic) from the North Carolina/Virginia boundary to the Dade/Broward County line in Florida and in the EEZ of the Gulf of Mexico (Gulf), except off Florida north of Monroe County; phase out wild live rock harvests in the South Atlantic EEZ south of the Dade/Broward County line by 1996; phase out wild live rock harvests in the Gulf EEZ off Florida north of Monroe County by 1997; establish restrictions on live rock harvesting and possession and require permits and reporting during the phase-out periods; and allow and facilitate live rock aquaculture. In addition, NMFS proposes changes to the regulations to correct and conform them to current standards.