Taking and Importing Marine Mammals; Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to Northeast Fisheries Science Center Fisheries and Ecosystem Research

Official abstract: NMFS has received a request from the Northeast Fisheries Science Center (NEFSC) for authorization to take small numbers of marine mammals incidental to fisheries and ecosystem research in the Atlantic Ocean over the course of 5-years from the date of issuance. Pursuant to regulations implementing the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), NMFS is announcing receipt of the NEFSC's request for the development and implementation of regulations governing the incidental taking of marine mammals. NMFS invites the public to provide information, suggestions, and comments on the NEFSC's application and request.