Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Vessel Monitoring Systems

NMFS is modifying the reporting requirements for vessels required to use Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) units in Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS) fisheries. This final rule requires vessel owners or operators, who have been issued HMS permits and are required to use VMS, to provide hourly position reports 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (24/7) via VMS. The final rule also allows the vessel owners or operators of such vessels to declare out of the HMS fishery when not fishing for or retaining HMS for a period of time encompassing two or more trips. This final action will continue to provide NOAA Office of Law Enforcement needed information on the target fishery and gear possessed in order to facilitate enforcement of closed areas and other HMS regulations, while reducing the reporting burden on vessel owners and operators. This action will also bring HMS fisheries regulations in line with VMS regulations in other fisheries. This rule affects all owners and/or operators of permitted vessels that fish for HMS and are required to use VMS.