Fisheries off West Coast States and in the Western Pacific; Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery; Groundfish Observer Program

NMFS issues this final rule to amend the regulations implementing the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery Management Plan (FMP) to provide for an at-sea observation program on all limited entry and open access catcher vessels. This final rule requires vessels in the groundfish fishery to carry observers when notified by NMFS or its designated agent; establishes notification requirements for vessels that may be required to carry observers; and establishes responsibilities and defines prohibited actions for vessels that are required to carry observers. The at-sea observation program is intended to improve estimates of total catch and fishing mortality.