NMFS issues this final rule to implement measures contained in Framework Adjustment 23 to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan (FMP). This rule closes Federal waters at the times specified to vessels fishing with sink gillnet gear and other gillnet gear capable of catching multispecies, with the exception of single pelagic gillnets, in parts of the following right whale critical habitat areas: Cape Cod Bay from March 27, 1997 through May 15, 1997, and from January 1 through May 15 in subsequent years; and the Great South Channel from April 1 through June 30, annually. The intent of this action is to restrict multispecies fishing activities that have been determined to jeopardize the continued existence of the northern right whale.