Fisheries of the Northeastern United; Black Sea Bass Fishery; 2010 Black Sea Bass Specifications; Emergency Rule

Through this emergency rule NMFS is implementing increases to the 2010 black sea bass specifications (i.e., commercial fishing quota, recreational harvest limit (RHL), and research set-aside (RSA)). This action is necessary to mitigate potential foregone economic yield associated with the current lower specifications and to ensure the specifications are consistent with the best available scientific information. This action is also necessary to increase specifications consistent with the recently revised catch level recommendation from the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) and its scientific advisors, the Scientific and Statistical Committee (SSC).