Changes to Pacific Coast Groundfish Essential Fish Habitat Conservation Areas and Boundaries of the Trawl Gear Rockfish Conservation Area Final Environmental Impact Statement, Magnuson-Stevens Act Analysis, Regulatory Impact Review, and Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Changes to Pacific Coast Groundfish Essential Fish Habitat Conservation Areas and Boundaries of the Trawl Gear Rockfish Conservation Area

The Council recommended changes to the essential fish habitat conservation areas, adjustments to the groundfish trawl rockfish conservation area, and use of MSA authorities to prohibit bottom contact fishing activities in waters deeper than 3,500 meters. NMFS’ determination on whether these changes are consistent with applicable laws is the federal action requiring National Environmental Policy Act compliance. The analysis within the environmental impact statement informs NMFS, fishermen, and the public about the current and anticipated direct, indirect and cumulative environmental effects of Amendment 28 to the FMP.