Fisheries of the Exclusive Economic Zone Off Alaska; Steller Sea Lion Protection Measures for the Groundfish Fisheries Off Alaska; Final 2002 Harvest Specifications and Associated Management Measures for the Groundfish Fisheries Off Alaska

On January 8, 2002, NMFS published an emergency interim rule, effective through July 8, 2002, that implemented Steller sea lion protection measures to avoid the likelihood that the groundfish fisheries off Alaska will jeopardize the continued existence of the western distinct population segment of Steller sea lions, or adversely modify its critical habitat. The emergency interim rule also implemented 2002 harvest specifications for the groundfish fisheries off Alaska. This action extends the emergency interim rule through December 31, 2002. This emergency action is necessary to continue to implement Steller sea lion protection measures until completion of notice and comment rulemaking and to continue implementation of 2002 harvest specifications for the remainder of the 2002 fishing year.