Species separation requirements amendment : Amendment 21 to the Atlantic surfclam and ocean quahog fishery management plan (includes Environmental Assessment, Regulatory Impact Review, and Initial Regulatory Flexibility Analysis) Species Separation Requirements Amendment to The Atlantic Surfclam And Ocean Quahog Fishery Management Plan Environmental Assessment

The purpose of this action is to modify the species separation requirements in the Atlantic surfclam and ocean quahog Individual Transferable Quota (ITQ) fisheries. This action would amend the Fishery Management Plan (FMP) and modify fishery management regulations to address the issue of mixed surfclam and quahog catches that are currently occurring onboard fishing vessels, an issue raised by some members of the clam fishing industry. August 2025 Draft submitted to NOAA: 04-17-2025 Final approved by NOAA: 03-24-2026