FMP changes related to the biennial management process
Amendment 27 to the Groundfish FMP was developed as part of the 2017-2018 harvest specifications and management measures process. It reclassified big skate from an ecosystem component species to “in the fishery,” listed deacon rockfish as a management unit species, and added a description of a new inseason process in California. The new inseason process for California fisheries would occur outside of a Council meeting and allow NMFS to take action based upon attainment or projected attainment of Federal harvest limits of black rockfish (commercial and recreational), canary rockfish (recreational), or yelloweye rockfish (recreational). Additionally, updates to the FMP were made to clarify matters from Amendment 23 and acknowledge the successful rebuilding of canary rockfish and petrale sole.
Groundfish Amendment 27 approval letter, December 27, 2016
Notice of availability (81 FR 67287, September 30, 2016) FMP Amendment 27
FMP language as amended by Amendment 27, August 2016