Federal Register #2026-12175

NOAA Final Rule: Gulf of America Shallow-Water Grouper Management Measures

NOAA has issued a final rule to implement new management measures for the Gulf of America Other Shallow-Water Grouper (SWG) complex. - Government Buyer: - Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), Southeast Regional Office - Products/Services Requested: - Management and enforcement of reduced commercial quotas for the Other SWG complex (245,000 lb gutted weight) - Implementation of a recreational fixed closed season for the Other SWG complex (January 1 through June 30 annually) - Affected Species (Other SWG complex): - Scamp - Yellowmouth grouper - Black grouper - Yellowfin grouper - Unique/Notable Requirements: - Annual reduction of commercial catch limits (from 525,000 lb to 245,000 lb) - Annual recreational harvest closure for the first half of each year (bag and possession limits set to zero during closure) - Measures are designed to prevent overfishing and support sustainable management of the fishery - No OEMs or commercial vendors are involved, as this is a regulatory action, not a procurement.

Description

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) issues regulations to implement management measures under the Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish Resources of the Gulf. This final rule modifies catch limits for the Gulf Other Shallow-Water Grouper complex and establishes a recreational fixed-closed season to reduce harvest of Gulf scamp and yellowmouth grouper. The measures aim to prevent overfishing while the Gulf Council develops Amendment 58A, which will consider additional management measures. The rule is effective January 1, 2027.

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