24140213, 68B-6.004 - Florida Administrative Rules, Law, Code, Register

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Florida Department of State and Division of Library and Information Services

Notice: 24140213

Notice of Proposed Rule

Department:

FISH AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION COMMISSION

Division:

Marine Fisheries

Chapter:

FLORIDA KEYS NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARY

Overview

RULE:

68B-6.004

Western Dry Rocks Seasonal Closure

PURPOSE:

The purpose of this rule amendment for state waters within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary is related to fishing regulations found in 68B-6, Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.), at Western Dry Rocks.   The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (Commission) is establishing a seasonal closed area to protect multi-species fish spawning aggregations thereby sustaining and potentially enhancing fishery populations.  Western Dry Rocks is a spawning aggregation site for many recreationally and commercially important fish species, including permit, mutton snapper, yellowtail snapper, and gray snapper.  

The effect of the rule amendment would seasonally prohibit fishing within a one-square-mile area at Western Dry Rocks, resulting in reduced fishing pressure on fish when they are aggregated for spawning at the site.

SUMMARY:

This rule amendment modifies fishing regulations at Western Dry Rocks.  The rule amendment seasonally prohibits fishing from May 1 – June 30 in a one-square-mile area at Western Dry Rocks.  However, fish may be possessed aboard a vessel, provided such vessel is in continuous transit through Western Dry Rocks, fishing gear is appropriately stowed, and such resources are stowed in a cabin, locker, or similar storage area prior to entering and during transit through Western Dry Rocks.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY:

Article IV, Section 9, Florida Constitution

LAW:

Article IV, Section 9, Florida Constitution

PRINT PUBLISH DATE:

1/26/2021 Vol. 47/16

COMMENTS:

From 1/26/2021 To 2/16/2021 (21 Days)
The public comment period for this notice has already expired.

REFERENCE MATERIALS:

No reference(s).

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