Increase lobster minimum carapace length (gauge) in Area 3

• The first of two 1/32 inch (0.08 cm) gauge increases is effective on November 1, 2007, increasing the legal minimum size of lobster in Area 3 to 3 15/32 inches (8.81 cm)

5% Trap Allocation Reduction – See Column 3, Table 1 on reverse side of this page

• 5% trap allocation reduction for all trap vessels eligible to fish in Area 3

Gauge Increase

• The second of two 1/32 inch (0.08 cm) gauge increases is effective on July 1, 2008, culminating in a legal minimum carapace length for lobster in Area 3 of 3 ½ inches (8.89 cm)

5% Trap Allocation Reduction - See Column 4, Table 1 on reverse side of this page

• A second 5% trap allocation reduction for all Area 3 trap vessels

To clarify existing regulations, the final measures:

• Allow a change in the LMCA designations of a fishing vessel with a Federal lobster permit upon sale, transfer, or within 45 days of the permit’s effective date
• Clearly reference other laws and regulations applicable to Federal lobster permit holders
• Clearly prohibit hauling or possession of lobster trap gear belonging to another vessel,
• Exempt lobster trap gear retrieval from provisions of the exempted fishing regulations by a substitute vessel if a Federally permitted vessel is inoperable or mechanically impaired.

• Final Rule (03/14/06)
• Permit Holder Letter (03/15/06)
• Chart of Lobster Management Areas
• American Lobster Sexual Identification
• Final EA, IRIR, IRFA
• Lobster Management Webpage

Contact Robert Ross
(978) 281-9234
National Marine Fisheries Service
Protected Resources Division
One Blackburn Drive
Gloucester, MA 01930