September 11, 2017 - The following was released by NOAA Fisheries:
Beginning March 12, 2018, all charter and party vessels that hold a federal permit for species managed by the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council will be required to electronically submit vessel trip reports for all trips carrying passengers for hire. These eVTRs must be submitted through a NOAA-approved eVTR software application within 48 hours of reaching port following the end of a fishing trip.
This action is not a change in reporting requirements; it is an administrative modification to the method and timing for submitting VTRs.
This action is expected to:
- Increase the timeliness (availability) of data submitted through VTRs;
- Reduce the reporting burden on data providers (for-hire operators and/or captains) by eliminating the need of paper-based reporting; and
- Increase the accuracy and quality of data by reducing recall bias associated with delayed completion and submission of paper forms.
To get all the details on these management changes, read the final rule as filed in the Federal Register, and the permit holder bulletin on our website.
Questions? Contact Jennifer Goebel at 978-281-9175 or jennifer.goebel@noaa.gov