This analysis was prepared in response to a January 13, 2016, order from the United States District Court, Western District of Washington, regarding a 2014 final rule issued by NMFS (Fairweather Fish, Inc. et al. vs. Pritzker et al., Case No. 3:14-cv-05685-BHS). NMFS published the final rule (Final Rule) to prohibit initial Quota recipients from using a hired master to harvest Individual Fishing Quota (IFQ) derived from sablefish catcher vessel Quota received by transfer after February 12, 2010 (NMFS 2014). The Final Rule is intended to promote a fishery management objective identified by the North Pacific Fishery Management Council (Council). The Council recommended the Final Rule to maintain progress toward predominantly owneronboard halibut and sablefish fisheries.

Miscellaneous

Alaska, Gulf of