26508759, 68B-3.051 - Florida Administrative Rules, Law, Code, Register

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Florida Department of State and Division of Library and Information Services

Notice: 26508759

Notice of Proposed Rule

Department:

FISH AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION COMMISSION

Division:

Marine Fisheries

Chapter:

LOCAL LAWS

Overview

RULE:

68B-3.051

Areas Seasonally Closed to Fishing in Martin and Palm Beach Counties; Exception

PURPOSE:

The purpose of this rule amendment is to reduce potential impacts of catch-and-release fishing on goliath grouper during spawning.  The effect of this rule amendment would be to seasonally prohibit all fishing activities at priority goliath grouper spawning aggregation sites in Atlantic state waters off Martin and Palm Beach counties.

SUMMARY:

This rule would implement seasonal fishing closures at three goliath grouper spawning aggregation sites in Atlantic state waters off Martin and Palm Beach counties to reduce potential impacts from catch-and-release fishing on goliath grouper during spawning.  These sites include MG-111 and Warrior reef, Ana Cecilia and Mizpah wrecks, and the Castor and Bud Bar wrecks.  From July 15 through October 15 each year, all recreational and commercial fishing would be prohibited within 1,000 feet of these areas.  Direct transit through these areas would be allowed during the fishing closure as long as all fishing gear and fish onboard the vessel are properly stowed.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY:

Article IV, Section 9, Florida Constitution

LAW:

Article IV, Section 9, Florida Constitution

PRINT PUBLISH DATE:

11/8/2022 Vol. 48/218

COMMENTS:

From 11/8/2022 To 11/29/2022 (21 Days)
The public comment period for this notice has already expired.

REFERENCE MATERIALS:

No reference(s).

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