December 13, 2017 - The following was released by NOAA Fisheries:
NOAA Fisheries proposes squid and butterfish quotas for the 2018-2020 fishing years and will maintain the mackerel quotas previously set for 2018.
Based on the status of these stocks, we are proposing a 41 percent decrease in the 2018 commercial butterfish quota compared to 2017, and a 2 percent increase for longfin squid. Annual quotas for Illex squid would be maintained at current levels, as they have been since 2012.
A March 2017 butterfish assessment update indicates that recent low recruitment may soon reduce biomass below target levels. Assuming average recruitment in future years, butterfish quotas would increase in 2019 and 2020. As new information becomes available, we may revise the proposed quotas for future fishing years.
Read the proposed rule as published today in the Federal Register. Supporting documents for this rule are also available.
Comments on this rule must be received by 5 pm on January 12, 2018.
To submit comments, please use the Federal e-rulemaking portal, or send comments by regular mail to John Bullard, Regional Administrator, National Marine Fisheries Service, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA, 01930. Please mark the outside of the envelope, "Comments on the Proposed Rule for 2018-2020 Squid and Butterfish Specifications."
Questions? Contact Jennifer Goebel, Regional Office, at 978-281-9175