Framework Adjustment 62 for Whiting, Red Hake, & Offshore Hake

The purpose of the action is to establish a rebuilding plan for the southern red hake stock. Framework 62 would establish a ten-year maximum rebuilding schedule for southern red hake, reducing the acceptable biological catch to 75-percent of the fishing mortality rate at maximum sustainable yield. In addition, it would decrease the year-round possession limit from 5,000 lb to a dual 1,000-lb/600-lb possession limit based on gear selectivity. There are no forseeable significant impacts or any known problems or issues.