Federal Register #2026-08600

NOAA Exempted Fishing Permit for Atlantic Herring Genomic Research

NOAA's National Marine Fisheries Service is considering an Exempted Fishing Permit (EFP) application from the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries to support a genomic study of Atlantic herring populations. - Government Buyer: - National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Department of Commerce - National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), Office of Sustainable Fisheries, Greater Atlantic Region - Project Overview: - Scientific research to develop a genomic tool for evaluating Atlantic herring population structure - Involves sampling from five spawning grounds in the Gulf of Maine and Georges Bank - Up to 3,000 adult herring (approx. 970 lbs) to be collected over 15 trips by three federally permitted vessels - Sampling to occur during spring and fall spawning seasons - Products/Services Requested: - Genomic sampling and analysis of Atlantic herring - Use of midwater trawl, purse seine, and small-mesh bottom trawl gear - Unique/Notable Requirements: - Exemptions from certain federal fishing regulations to enable research - Strict pre-trip notification protocols - Bycatch minimization, especially for Atlantic cod, with high survival measures for any incidentally caught cod - No specific OEMs or commercial products are involved; the opportunity is focused on permitting and scientific research activities - Key Locations: - Greater Atlantic Regional Fisheries Office, Gloucester, MA - New England Fishery Management Council, Newburyport, MA - Gulf of Maine and Georges Bank spawning grounds

Description

This notice announces a preliminary determination that an Exempted Fishing Permit (EFP) application submitted by the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries (MA DMF) contains all required information and warrants further consideration. The EFP would allow federally permitted fishing vessels to fish outside fishery regulations to support exempted fishing activities for a genomic study of Atlantic herring population structure. The project involves sampling herring from multiple spawning grounds using various fishing gears during spring and fall seasons to improve scientific understanding and potentially update area-specific catch limits. Comments on the application must be received by May 19, 2026.

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