Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act Provisions; Fisheries of the Northeastern United States; Atlantic Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Fishery; Framework Adjustment 1

This final rule implements Framework Adjustment 1 (FW 1) to the Atlantic Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Fishery Management Plan (FMP). FW 1 management measures were developed by the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) and implements a vessel monitoring system (VMS) requirement for vessels participating in the surfclam and ocean quahog fisheries. The VMS requirement replaces the current telephone- based notification requirement necessary prior to departure on a surfclam or ocean quahog fishing trip and facilitates monitoring of closed areas and state/Federal jurisdictional boundaries. The intent of this action is to implement management measures that will improve the management and enforcement of regulations governing the Atlantic surfclam and ocean quahog fishery in the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone.