North Atlantic Right Whale Protection; Emergency Regulations

This emergency interim rule implements restrictions on use of lobster pot gear in the Cape Cod Bay right whale critical habitat from April 1, 1997, through May 15, 1997. It also prohibits lobster pot fishing in the Great South Channel right whale critical habitat area from April 1, 1997, through June 30, 1997, until gear modifications or alternative fishing practices that minimize the risk of entanglement or reduce the likelihood that entanglement will result in serious injury or mortality are developed and approved.