General Provisions for Domestic Fisheries; Closes Block Island Sound to All Fishing

NMFS has determined that, in order to protect public health , safety, and welfare, it is necessary to close a portion of Federal waters in Block Island Sound off the coast of the State of Rhode Island, to all fishing. Closure of this area is made at the request of the State of Rhode Island. The closure will be in effect for a period of 90 days beginning on the effective date of this rule, unless conditions allow NMFS to terminate it sooner. This closure is implemented due to the adverse environmental conditions created by the recent grounding of an oil barge, and subsequent oil spill. This action will prevent fishermen from harvesting fish which may be contaminated.