23356647, 68B-13.0015 - Florida Administrative Rules, Law, Code, Register

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Florida Department of State and Division of Library and Information Services

Notice: 23356647

Notice of Proposed Rule

Department:

FISH AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION COMMISSION

Division:

Marine Fisheries

Chapter:

STONE CRABS

Overview

RULE:

68B-13.0015	Definitions
68B-13.005	Designation as Restricted Species; Season; Repeal of Special Act
68B-13.007	Restrictions on Size and on Transport and Possession of Stone Crabs and Stone Crab Claws
68B-13.008	Gear, Trap Construction, Commercial Trap Marking Requirements, Trap Working Regulations, Trap Transfer

PURPOSE:

The purpose of these rule amendments is to improve the stone crab population and build resiliency in the fishery by modifying the regulations found in 68B-13, Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.). 

The effect of these rule amendments will be to shorten the stone crab season statewide, increase the stone crab claw minimum size limit, limit the possession of whole stone crabs on board a vessel, and require an escape ring in all wood and plastic stone crab traps.

SUMMARY:

These rule amendments will modify the stone crab harvest season to occur from October 15 through April 9, increase the stone crab claw minimum size limit to 2 7/8 inches, limit the possession of whole stone crabs on board a vessel to no more than two checker boxes, and require a 2 3/16 inch diameter escape ring in all wood and plastic stone crab traps by October 5, 2023.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY:

Article IV, Section 9, Florida Constitution

LAW:

Article IV, Section 9, Florida Constitution

PRINT PUBLISH DATE:

6/18/2020 Vol. 46/119

COMMENTS:

From 6/18/2020 To 7/9/2020 (21 Days)
The public comment period for this notice has already expired.

REFERENCE MATERIALS:

No reference(s).

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