Environmental Assessment/Regulatory Impact Review for Amendment to the Fishery Management Plan for Modifications to Gulf of Alaska Pollock and Pacific Cod Seasonal Allocation

Amendment 109 (GOA)This document analyzes the impacts of potential modifications to the seasonal allocation of pollock and Pacific cod total allowable catch (TAC) in the Central and Western Gulf of Alaska. The modifications are being considered by the North Pacific Fishery Management Council in order to improve management of the fisheries by reducing potential inefficiencies for fishery participants. Modifying the seasons or seasonal allocations of pollock and cod could allow the fisheries to more fully harvest the TAC, increase management flexibility and potentially decrease prohibited species catch. The modifications would not re-distribute allocations of pollock or cod between management areas or participants. There is potential for effects on prey availability for the endangered Steller sea lion western distinct population segment.