Authorizing Hook-and-line Catcher/Processors to use Longline Pot Gear in the Bering Sea Greenland Turbot Fishery

This Environmental Assessment/Regulatory Impact Review analyzes proposed management measures that would authorize the use of longline pot gear when directed fishing for Greenland turbot in the Bering Sea management subarea. The considered action alternatives would apply to holders of groundfish License Limitation Program licenses that are endorsed for non-trawl gear in the Bering Sea. An optional measure would exempt longline pots used in the directed fishery for Bering Sea Greenland turbot from the 9-inch maximum tunnel opening restriction. The purpose of the action is to provide the non-trawl sector with options to effectively prosecute the Bering Sea Greenland turbot fishery in the context of whale depredation on hook-and-line gear.