Reconsideration of initial catch share allocations in the Mothership and Shoreside Pacific whiting fisheries : environmental assessment and Magnuson-Stevens Act analysis Reconsideration of initial catch share allocations in the Mothership (MS) and Shoreside Pacific whiting fisheries

"The proposed action is not expected to jeopardize the sustainability of the target species (Pacific whiting), or non-target species because the proposed action is anticipated to allow members of industry greater flexibility in attaining their target catch by reinstating: (1) quota share (QS) trading (except for window rockfish QS) in the shoreside individual fishing quota (IFQ) program; (2) severability in the MS sector; and (3) divestiture periods such that permit holders with quota in excess of accumulation limits must divest within approximately two years from the start of trading. Impacts on target species are primarily a function of the areas fished, gear types used, and level of effort; and, of these, area fished is the only factor that might be affected as a result of the reallocation of quota (see Sections 4.1 and 4.2 of the environmental assessment for additional discussion). Because the No Action alternative is being implemented by this action, and no change is being made to the initial allocation of quota, this action is not expected to jeopardize the sustainability of the target species. For the reasons described above, this action is also not expected to: adversely affect endangered or threatened species, marine mammals, or the critical habitat of these species, nor would it be expected to allow substantial damage to the ocean and coastal habitats and/or essential fish habitat, or have substantial adverse impacts on public health or safety or the human environment"--Summary from cover letter.