Fisheries of the Exclusive Economic Zone off Alaska; Bycatch Rate Standards for the Second Half of 2002

NMFS announces Pacific halibut and red king crab bycatch rate standards for the second half of 2002. Publication of these bycatch rate standards is required by regulations implementing the vessel incentive program (VIP). This action is necessary to implement the bycatch rate standards for trawl vessel operators who participate in the Alaska groundfish trawl fisheries. The intent of this action is to reduce prohibited species bycatch rates and promote conservation of groundfish and other fishery resources.