NMFS Seeks Comments on New Turtle Excluder Device (TED) Requirements for Skimmer Trawl Vessels

On April 20, 2021 the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) published an advance notice of proposed rulemaking to solicit comments on whether to modify the turtle excluder device (TED) requirements for skimmer trawl vessels less than 40 feet. NMFS states that based on additional testing, it has found that TEDs are effective on smaller vessels. The agency is soliciting public comment on the feasibility of employing the devices on smaller vessels including associated costs. Written comments are due by May 20, 2021.

• Read the Federal Register notice and submit your public comments here.
• Advocacy contact: Prianka Sharma at (202) 205-6938.