Environmental Assessment for the modification of Seabird Interaction Mitigation Measures in the Hawaii Deep-set Longline fishery

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) will modify required seabird interaction mitigation measures in the Hawaii longline fishery. The action will change regulations to require that federally permitted deep-set longline fishing vessels that set fishing gear from the stern use a tori line (bird scaring streamer) in place of the currently required blue-dyed, thawed bait and strategic offal discharge when fishing above 23˚ N latitude. This action is expected to improve the overall efficacy and operational practicality of the required seabird mitigation measures by reducing seabird bycatch and saving time and money for fishermen.