Gang Green Controled NOAA SLASHES Extending Comment Period on Controversial Halibut Catch Share Plan From 45 to14 days

July 31, 2013   North Pacific

“I think it’s absolutely silly,” said chamber Executive Director Monte Davis. “We asked for enough time so that people in their busiest time of year would have time to comment.” Begich also expressed disappointment. “Giving Alaskans just two weeks more during the busy summer fishing season to comment on a contentious plan on how we manage our state’s halibut fishery is a disservice,” he said. Begich and Murkowski had asked for a 45-day extension and the chamber requested a 60-day extension. In a press release, NOAA Fisheries NMFS said it recognized the concerns of working fishermen who want the chance to comment. However, extending the comment period longer would jeopardize the prospects of implementing it for the 2014 fishing season, NOAA Fisheries NMFS said. [email protected]

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