Federal Register #2026-13166

Exempted Fishing Permit for Pacific Sardine Scientific Research, 2026-2027

This opportunity involves a request for an Exempted Fishing Permit (EFP) for Pacific sardine research in the 2026-2027 fishing year. - Government Buyer: - Department of Commerce - National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) - National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) - Applicant/Vendor: - California Wetfish Producers Association (CWPA) - Products/Services Requested: - Exempted Fishing Permit to allow up to 7 vessels to harvest up to 520 metric tons of Pacific sardine - Harvested sardine used for scientific research and biological sampling - Remainder of catch may be sold to offset fishing costs and avoid discards - Unique/Notable Requirements: - Fishing activities coordinated with the Southwest Fisheries Science Center - Permit supports industry-based scientific research and ongoing biological data collection - No specific equipment, products, or part numbers are requested - OEMs/Vendors Highlighted: - California Wetfish Producers Association (CWPA) is the applicant; no other OEMs or manufacturers are referenced

Description

The Regional Administrator, West Coast Region, NMFS, has made a preliminary determination that an exempted fishing permit (EFP) application from the California Wetfish Producers Association (CWPA) warrants further consideration. The application requests an exemption from the expected prohibition on primary directed fishing for Pacific sardine during the 2026-2027 fishing year to support industry-based scientific research. The EFP aims to continue a time-series of biological data, extend previous work authorized by NMFS, and allow some sales to offset fishing costs and avoid discards. Public comments on this application are requested and must be received by July 15, 2026.

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