Eric Olson, Chairman
Chris Oliver, Executive Director
SUBJECT: Title
CDQ Pacific Cod Fishery Development - Initial Review
end
ESTIMATED TIME:
4 hours
ACTION REQUIRED: Recommended Action
Initial review on EA/RIR/IRFA for development of CDQ Pacific cod small vessel fishery
Body
BACKGROUND
In October 2013, representatives from the Community Development Quota (CDQ) groups introduced a proposal to make regulatory changes or exemptions that would encourage local development and participation in the harvest of CDQ Pacific cod allocations in both a directed CDQ Pacific cod fishery and while targeting CDQ and Individual Fishing Quota (IFQ) halibut. As a result of this testimony, the Council requested a staff discussion paper, presented in February of 2014. In February, the Council initiated an analysis, establishing a purpose and needs statement and alternatives.
The purpose of this action is to create a regulatory structure for the harvest of CDQ Pacific cod that promotes harvest opportunities for the CDQ small vessel fleets, and effectively allows CDQ and IFQ halibut harvesters, less than or equal to 46' in length the ability to retain CDQ Pacific cod in excess of the 20 percent MRA of halibut. The difference between the vessel requirements for directed CDQ halibut fishing and directed CDQ Pacific cod fishing means that any Pacific cod incidentally caught in the halibut fishery is generally not able to be retained by small vessels for commercial use. Adjusting the regulations for these fisheries could reduce Pacific cod discards and increase efficiency in the halibut CDQ fishery. Particularly in light of recent declines in halibut quota, CDQ fleets would benefit from the ability to retain their allocation of Pacific cod for commercial sale to supplement their income from CDQ halibut harvest. This action would be in line with Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (MSA) policy objectives of supporting employment and growth i...
Click here for full text