50 CFR § 622 Appendices A-G - Fisheries of the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, and South Atlantic

475 Fishery Conservation and Management Pt. 622, App. A § 622.495 Commercial trip limit. Commercial trip limits are limits on the amount of the applicable species that may be possessed on board or landed, purchased, or sold from a vessel per day. A person who fishes in the EEZ may not combine a trip limit specified in this section with any trip or possession limit applicable to state waters. A species subject to a trip limit specified in this section taken in the EEZ may not be transferred at sea, re gardless of where such transfer takes place, and such species may not be transferred in the EEZ. (a) Applicability. The trip limit of paragraph (b) of this section applies to a vessel that has at least one person on board with a valid commercial fishing license issued by Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands. If no person on board the vessel has a valid commer cial fishing license issued by Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands, the bag limit specified in § 622.494(b) applies. (b) Trip limit. The trip limit for queen conch in or from the Caribbean EEZ is 200 queen conch per day. [78 FR 22952, Apr. 17, 2013, as amended at 78 FR 56173, Sept. 12, 2013] § 622.496 Annual catch limits (ACLs), annual catch targets (ACTs), and accountability measures (AMs). See § 622.12 for applicable ACLs and AMs. § 622.497 Adjustment of management measures. In accordance with the framework procedure of the Fishery Management Plan for Queen Conch Resources of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Is lands, the RA may establish or modify the following items: (a) Quotas, trip limits, bag limits, size limits, closed seasons or areas, gear restrictions, fishing year, MSY, OY, TAC, MFMT, MSST, OFL, ABC control rules, ACLs, AMs, ACTs, and actions to minimize the interaction of fishing gear with endangered species or marine mammals. (b) [Reserved] APPENDIX A TO PART 622—SPECIES TABLES TABLE 1 OF APPENDIX A TO PART 622— CARIBBEAN CORAL REEF RESOURCES I. Coelenterates—Phylum Coelenterata A. Hydrocorals—Class Hydrozoa 1. Hydroids—Order Anthoathecata Family Milleporidae Millepora spp., Fire corals Family Stylasteridae Stylaster roseus, Rose lace corals B. Anthozoans—Class Anthozoa 1. Soft corals—Order Alcyonacea Family Anthothelidae Erythropodium caribaeorum, Encrusting gorgonian Iciligorgia schrammi, Deepwater sea fan Family Briareidae Briareum asbestinum, Corky sea finger Family Clavulariidae Carijoa riisei Telesto spp. 2. Gorgonian corals—Order Gorgonacea Family Ellisellidae Ellisella spp., Sea whips Family Gorgoniidae Gorgonia flabellum, Venus sea fan G. mariae, Wide-mesh sea fan G. ventalina, Common sea fan Pseudopterogorgia acerosa, Sea plume P. albatrossae P. americana, Slimy sea plume P. bipinnata, Bipinnate plume P. rigida Pterogorgia anceps, Angular sea whip P. citrina, Yellow sea whip Family Plexauridae Eunicea calyculata, Warty sea rod E. clavigera E. fusca, Doughnut sea rod E. knighti E. laciniata E. laxispica E. mammosa, Swollen-knob E. succinea, Shelf-knob sea rod E. touneforti Muricea atlantica M. elongata, Orange spiny rod M. laxa, Delicate spiny rod M. muricata, Spiny sea fan M. pinnata, Long spine sea fan Muriceopsis spp. M. flavida, Rough sea plume M. sulphurea Plexaura flexuosa, Bent sea rod P. homomalla, Black sea rod Plexaurella dichotoma, Slit-pore sea rod P. fusifera P. grandiflora P. grisea P. nutans, Giant slit-pore Pseudoplexaura crucis P. flagellosa P. porosa, Porous sea rod P. wagenaari 476 50 CFR Ch. VI (10–1–22 Edition) Pt. 622, App. A 3. Hard Corals—Order Scleractinia Family Acroporidae Acropora cervicornis, Staghorn coral A. palmata, Elkhorn coral A. prolifera, Fused staghorn Family Agaricidae Agaricia agaricites, Lettuce leaf coral A. fragilis, Fragile saucer A. lamarcki, Lamarck’s sheet A. tenuifolia, Thin leaf lettuce Leptoseris cucullata, Sunray lettuce Family Astrocoeniidae Stephanocoenia michelinii, Blushing star Family Caryophylliidae Eusmilia fastigiata, Flower coral Tubastrea aurea, Cup coral Family Faviidae Cladocora arbuscula, Tube coral Colpophyllia natans, Boulder coral Diploria clivosa, Knobby brain coral D. labyrinthiformis, Grooved brain D. strigosa, Symmetrical brain Favia fragum, Golfball coral Manicina areolata, Rose coral M. mayori, Tortugas rose coral Montastrea annularis, Boulder star coral M. cavernosa, Great star coral Solenastrea bournoni, Smooth star coral Family Meandrinidae Dendrogyra cylindrus, Pillar coral Dichocoenia stellaris, Pancake star D. stokesi, Elliptical star Meandrina meandrites, Maze coral Family Mussidae Isophyllastrea rigida, Rough star coral Isophyllia sinuosa, Sinuous cactus Mussa angulosa, Large flower coral Mycetophyllia aliciae, Thin fungus coral M. danae, Fat fungus coral M. ferox, Grooved fungus M. lamarckiana, Fungus coral Scolymia cubensis, Artichoke coral S. lacera, Solitary disk Family Oculinidae Oculina diffusa, Ivory bush coral Family Pocilloporidae Madracis decactis, Ten-ray star coral M. mirabilis, Yellow pencil Family Poritidae Porites astreoides, Mustard hill coral P. branneri, Blue crust coral P. divaricata, Small finger coral P. porites, Finger coral Family Rhizangiidae Astrangia solitaria, Dwarf cup coral Phyllangia americana, Hidden cup coral Family Siderastreidae Siderastrea radians, Lesser starlet S. siderea, Massive starlet 4. Black Corals—Order Antipatharia Antipathes spp., Bushy black coral Stichopathes spp., Wire coral II. [Reserved] Aquarium Trade Species in the Caribbean Coral FMP I. Sponges—Phylum Porifera A. Demosponges—Class Demospongiae Amphimedon compressa, Erect rope sponge Chondrilla nucula, Chicken liver sponge Cinachyrella alloclada Geodia neptuni, Potato sponge Haliclona spp., Finger sponge Myriastra spp. Niphates digitalis, Pink vase sponge N. erecta, Lavender rope sponge Spinosella plicifera S. vaginalis Tethya crypta II. Coelenterates—Phylum Coelenterata A. Anthozoans—Class Anthozoa 1. Anemones—Order Actiniaria Aiptasia tagetes, Pale anemone Bartholomea annulata, Corkscrew anemone Condylactis gigantea, Giant pink-tipped anemone Heteractis lucida, Knobby anemone Lebrunia spp., Staghorn anemone Stichodactyla helianthus, Sun anemone 2. Colonial Anemones—Order Zoanthidea Zoanthus spp., Sea mat 3. False Corals—Order Corallimorpharia Discosoma spp. (formerly Rhodactis), False coral Ricordea florida, Florida false coral III. Annelid Worms—Phylum Annelida A. Polychaetes—Class Polychaeta Family Sabellidae, Feather duster worms Sabellastarte spp., Tube worms S. magnifica, Magnificent duster Family Serpulidae Spirobranchus giganteus, Christmas tree worm IV. Mollusks—Phylum Mollusca A. Gastropods—Class Gastropoda Family Elysiidae Tridachia crispata, Lettuce sea slug Family Olividae Oliva reticularis, Netted olive Family Ovulidae Cyphoma gibbosum, Flamingo tongue B. Bivalves—Class Bivalvia Family Limidae Lima spp., Fileclams L. scabra, Rough fileclam Family Spondylidae Spondylus americanus, Atlantic thorny oys ter C. Cephalopods—Class Cephalopoda 1. Octopuses—Order Octopoda Family Octopodidae Octopus spp. (except the Common octopus, O. vulgaris) V. Arthropods—Phylum Arthropoda A. Crustaceans—Subphylum Crustacea 1. Decapods—Order Decapoda Family Alpheidae Alpheus armatus, Snapping shrimp Family Diogenidae Paguristes spp., Hermit crabs P. cadenati, Red reef hermit Family Grapsidae Percnon gibbesi, Nimble spray crab Family Hippolytidae Lysmata spp., Peppermint shrimp 477 Fishery Conservation and Management Pt. 622, App. A Thor amboinensis, Anemone shrimp Family Majidae, Coral crabs Mithrax spp., Clinging crabs M. cinctimanus, Banded clinging M. sculptus, Green clinging Stenorhynchus seticornis, Yellowline arrow Family Palaemonida Periclimenes spp., Cleaner shrimp Family Squillidae, Mantis crabs Gonodactylus spp. Lysiosquilla spp. Family Stenopodidae, Coral shrimp Stenopus hispidus, Banded shrimp S. scutellatus, Golden shrimp VI. Echinoderms—Phylum Echinodermata A. Feather stars—Class Crinoidea Analcidometra armata, Swimming crinoid Davidaster spp., Crinoids Nemaster spp., Crinoids B. Sea stars—Class Asteroidea Astropecten spp., Sand stars Linckia guildingii, Common comet star Ophidiaster guildingii, Comet star Oreaster reticulatus, Cushion sea star C. Brittle and basket stars—Class Ophiuroidea Astrophyton muricatum, Giant basket star Ophiocoma spp., Brittlestars Ophioderma spp., Brittlestars O. rubicundum, Ruby brittlestar D. Sea Urchins—Class Echinoidea Diadema antillarum, Long-spined urchin Echinometra spp., Purple urchin Eucidaris tribuloides, Pencil urchin Lytechinus spp., Pin cushion urchin Tripneustes ventricosus, Sea egg E. Sea Cucumbers—Class Holothuroidea Holothuria spp., Sea cucumbers VII. Chordates—Phylum Chordata A. Tunicates—Subphylum Urochordata TABLE 2 OF APPENDIX A TO PART 622— CARIBBEAN REEF FISH Lutjanidae—Snappers Unit 1 Black snapper, Apsilus dentatus Blackfin snapper, Lutjanus buccanella Silk snapper, Lutjanus vivanus Vermilion snapper, Rhomboplites aurorubens Wenchman, Pristipomoides aquilonaris Unit 2 Cardinal, Pristipomoides macrophthalmus Queen snapper, Etelis oculatus Unit 3 Gray snapper, Lutjanus griseus Lane snapper, Lutjanus synagris Mutton snapper, Lutjanus analis Dog snapper, Lutjanus jocu Schoolmaster, Lutjanus apodus Mahogany snapper, Lutjanus mahogoni Unit 4 Yellowtail snapper, Ocyurus chrysurus Serranidae—Sea basses and Groupers Unit 1 Nassau Grouper, Epinephelus striatus Unit 2 Goliath grouper, Epinephelus itajara Unit 3 Coney, Epinephelus fulvus Graysby, Epinephelus cruentatus Red hind, Epinephelus guttatus Rock hind, Epinephelus adscensionis Unit 4 Black grouper, Mycteroperca bonaci Red grouper, Epinephelus morio Tiger grouper, Mycteroperca tigris Yellowfin grouper, Mycteroperca venenosa Unit 5 Misty grouper, Epinephelus mystacinus Yellowedge grouper, Epinephelus flavolimbatus Haemulidae—Grunts White grunt, Haemulon plumierii Margate, Haemulon album Tomtate, Haemulon aurolineatum Bluestriped grunt, Haemulon sciurus French grunt, Haemulon flavolineatum Porkfish, Anisotremus virginicus Mullidae—Goatfishes Spotted goatfish, Pseudupeneus maculatus Yellow goatfish, Mulloidichthys martinicus Sparidae—Porgies Jolthead porgy, Calamus bajonado Sea bream, Archosargus rhomboidalis Sheepshead porgy, Calamus penna Pluma, Calamus pennatula Holocentridae—Squirrelfishes Blackbar soldierfish, Myripristis jacobus Bigeye, Priacanthus arenatus Longspine squirrelfish, Holocentrus rufus Squirrelfish, Holocentrus adscensionis Malacanthidae—Tilefishes Blackline tilefish, Caulolatilus cyanops Sand tilefish, Malacanthus plumieri Carangidae—Jacks Blue runner, Caranx crysos Horse-eye jack, Caranx latus Black jack, Caranx lugubris Almaco jack, Seriola rivoliana Bar jack, Caranx ruber Greater amberjack, Seriola dumerili Yellow jack, Caranx bartholomaei Scaridae—Parrotfishes Blue parrotfish, Scarus coeruleus Midnight parrotfish, Scarus coelestinus Princess parrotfish, Scarus taeniopterus Queen parrotfish, Scarus vetula Rainbow parrotfish, Scarus guacamaia Redfin parrotfish, Sparisoma rubripinne Redtail parrotfish, Sparisoma chrysopterum Stoplight parrotfish, Sparisoma viride Redband parrotfish, Sparisoma aurofrenatum Striped parrotfish, Scarus croicensis Acanthuridae—Surgeonfishes Blue tang, Acanthurus coeruleus Ocean surgeonfish, Acanthurus bahianus Doctorfish, Acanthurus chirurgus Balistidae—Triggerfishes Ocean triggerfish, Canthidermis sufflamen Queen triggerfish, Balistes vetula Sargassum triggerfish, Xanthichthys ringens Monacanthidae—Filefishes 478 50 CFR Ch. VI (10–1–22 Edition) Pt. 622, App. A Scrawled filefish, Aluterus scriptus Whitespotted filefish, Cantherhines macrocerus Black durgon, Melichthys niger Ostraciidae—Boxfishes Honeycomb cowfish, Lactophrys polygonia Scrawled cowfish, Lactophrys quadricornis Trunkfish, Lactophrys trigonus Spotted trunkfish, Lactophrys bicaudalis Smooth trunkfish, Lactophrys triqueter Labridae—Wrasses Hogfish, Lachnolaimus maximus Puddingwife, Halichoeres radiatus Spanish hogfish, Bodianus rufus Pomacanthidae—Angelfishes Queen angelfish, Holacanthus ciliaris Gray angelfish, Pomacanthus arcuatus French angelfish, Pomacanthus paru Aquarium Trade Species in the Caribbean Reef Fish FMP: Frogfish, Antennarius spp. Flamefish, Apogon maculatus Conchfish, Astrapogon stellatus Redlip blenny, Ophioblennius atlanticus Peacock flounder, Bothus lunatus Longsnout butterflyfish, Chaetodon aculeatus Foureye butterflyfish, Chaetodon capistratus Spotfin butterflyfish, Chaetodon ocellatus Banded butterflyfish, Chaetodon striatus Redspotted hawkfish, Amblycirrhitus pinos Flying gurnard, Dactylopterus volitans Atlantic spadefish, Chaetodipterus faber Neon goby, Gobiosoma oceanops Rusty goby, Priolepis hipoliti Royal gramma, Gramma loreto Creole wrasse, Clepticus parrae Yellowcheek wrasse, Halichoeres cyanocephalus Yellowhead wrasse, Halichoeres garnoti Clown wrasse, Halichoeres maculipinna Pearly razorfish, Hemipteronotus novacula Green razorfish, Hemipteronotus splendens Bluehead wrasse, Thalassoma bifasciatum Chain moray, Echidna catenata Green moray, Gymnothorax funebris Goldentail moray, Gymnothorax miliaris Batfish, Ogcocephalus spp. Goldspotted eel, Myrichthys ocellatus Yellowhead jawfish, Opistognathus aurifrons Dusky jawfish, Opistognathus whitehursti Cherubfish, Centropyge argi Rock beauty, Holacanthus tricolor Sergeant major, Abudefduf saxatilis Blue chromis, Chromis cyanea Sunshinefish, Chromis insolata Yellowtail damselfish, Microspathodon chrysurus Dusky damselfish, Pomacentrus fuscus Beaugregory, Pomacentrus leucostictus Bicolor damselfish, Pomacentrus partitus Threespot damselfish, Pomacentrus planifrons Glasseye snapper, Priacanthus cruentatus High-hat, Equetus acuminatus Jackknife-fish, Equetus lanceolatus Spotted drum, Equetus punctatus Scorpaenidae—Scorpionfishes Butter hamlet, Hypoplectrus unicolor Swissguard basslet, Liopropoma rubre Greater soapfish, Rypticus saponaceus Orangeback bass, Serranus annularis Lantern bass, Serranus baldwini Tobaccofish, Serranus tabacarius Harlequin bass, Serranus tigrinus Chalk bass, Serranus tortugarum Caribbean tonguefish, Symphurus arawak Seahorses, Hippocampus spp. Pipefishes, Syngnathus spp. Sand diver, Synodus intermedius Sharpnose puffer, Canthigaster rostrata Porcupinefish, Diodon hystrix TABLE 3 OF APPENDIX A TO PART 622—GULF REEF FISH Balistidae—Triggerfishes Gray triggerfish, Balistes capriscus Carangidae—Jacks Greater amberjack, Seriola dumerili Lesser amberjack, Seriola fasciata Almaco jack, Seriola rivoliana Banded rudderfish, Seriola zonata Labridae—Wrasses Hogfish, Lachnolaimus maximus Lutjanidae—Snappers Queen snapper, Etelis oculatus Mutton snapper, Lutjanus analis Blackfin snapper, Lutjanus buccanella Red snapper, Lutjanus campechanus Cubera snapper, Lutjanus cyanopterus Gray (mangrove) snapper, Lutjanus griseus Lane snapper, Lutjanus synagris Silk snapper, Lutjanus vivanus Yellowtail snapper, Ocyurus chrysurus Wenchman, Pristipomoides aquilonaris Vermilion snapper, Rhomboplites aurorubens Malacanthidae—Tilefishes Goldface tilefish, Caulolatilus chrysops Blueline tilefish, Caulolatilus microps Tilefish, Lopholatilus chamaeleonticeps Serranidae—Groupers Speckled hind, Epinephelus drummondhayi Yellowedge grouper, Epinephelus flavolimbatus Goliath grouper, Epinephelus itajara Red grouper, Epinephelus morio Warsaw grouper, Epinephelus nigritus Snowy grouper, Epinephelus niveatus Black grouper, Mycteroperca bonaci Yellowmouth grouper, Mycteroperca interstitialis Gag, Mycteroperca microlepis Scamp, Mycteroperca phenax Yellowfin grouper, Mycteroperca venenosa TABLE 4 OF APPENDIX A TO PART 622—SOUTH ATLANTIC SNAPPER-GROUPER Balistidae—Triggerfishes Gray triggerfish, Balistes capriscus Carangidae—Jacks Bar jack, Caranx ruber 479 Fishery Conservation and Management Pt. 622, App. A Greater amberjack, Seriola dumerili Lesser amberjack, Seriola fasciata Almaco jack, Seriola rivoliana Banded rudderfish, Seriola zonata Ephippidae—Spadefishes Spadefish, Chaetodipterus faber Haemulidae—Grunts Margate, Haemulon album Tomtate, Haemulon aurolineatum Sailor’s choice, Haemulon parrai White grunt, Haemulon plumieri Labridae—Wrasses Hogfish, Lachnolaimus maximus Lutjanidae—Snappers Queen snapper, Etelis oculatus Mutton snapper, Lutjanus analis Blackfin snapper, Lutjanus buccanella Red snapper, Lutjanus campechanus Cubera snapper, Lutjanus cyanopterus Gray snapper, Lutjanus griseus Lane snapper, Lutjanus synagris Silk snapper, Lutjanus vivanus Yellowtail snapper, Ocyurus chrysurus Vermilion snapper, Rhomboplites aurorubens Malacanthidae—Tilefishes Blueline tilefish, Caulolatilus microps Golden tilefish, Lopholatilus chamaeleonticeps Sand tilefish, Malacanthus plumieri Percichthyidae—Temperate basses Wreckfish, Polyprion americanus Serranidae—Groupers Rock hind, Epinephelus adscensionis Graysby, Epinephelus cruentatus Speckled hind, Epinephelus drummondhayi Yellowedge grouper, Epinephelus flavolimbatus Coney, Epinephelus fulvus Red hind, Epinephelus guttatus Goliath grouper, Epinephelus itajara Red grouper, Epinephelus morio Misty grouper, Epinephelus mystacinus Warsaw grouper, Epinephelus nigritus Snowy grouper, Epinephelus niveatus Nassau grouper, Epinephelus striatus Black grouper, Mycteroperca bonaci Yellowmouth grouper, Mycteroperca interstitialis Gag, Mycteroperca microlepis Scamp, Mycteroperca phenax Yellowfin grouper, Mycteroperca venenosa Serranidae—Sea Basses: Black sea bass, Centropristis striata Sparidae—Porgies Jolthead porgy, Calamus bajonado Saucereye porgy, Calamus calamus Whitebone porgy, Calamus leucosteus Knobbed porgy, Calamus nodosus Red porgy, Pagrus pagrus Scup, Stenotomus chrysops The following species are designated as eco system component species: Cottonwick, Haemulon melanurum Bank sea bass, Centropristis ocyurus Rock sea bass, Centropristis philadelphica Longspine porgy, Stenotomus caprinus Ocean triggerfish, Canthidermis sufflamen TABLE 5 OF APPENDIX A TO PART 622— CARIBBEAN CONCH RESOURCES Queen conch, Strombus gigas TABLE 6 OF APPENDIX A TO PART 622— ATLANTIC DOLPHIN AND WAHOO Dolphin, Coryphaena equiselis or Coryphaena hippurus Wahoo, Acanthocybium solandri The following species are designated as ecosystem component species: Bullet mackerel, Auxis rochei Frigate mackerel, Auxis thazard [78 FR 22952, Apr. 17, 2013, as amended at 78 FR 33256, June 4, 2013; 78 FR 49185; 78 FR 78776, Dec. 27, 2013; 81 FR 32254, May 23, 2016; 86 FR 24745, May 10, 2021] EFFECTIVE DATE NOTE: At 87 FR 56236, Sept. 13, 2022, appendix A to part 622 was re vised, effective Oct. 13, 2022. For the conveniece of the user the user, the revised text is set forth as follows: APPENDIX A TO PART 622—SPECIES TABLES TABLE 1 TO APPENDIX A TO PART 622—GULF OF MEXICO REEF FISH Balistidae—Triggerfishes Gray triggerfish, Balistes capriscus Carangidae—Jacks Greater amberjack, Seriola dumerili Lesser amberjack, Seriola fasciata Almaco jack, Seriola rivoliana Banded rudderfish, Seriola zonata Labridae—Wrasses Hogfish, Lachnolaimus maximus Lutjanidae—Snappers Queen snapper, Etelis oculatus Mutton snapper, Lutjanus analis Blackfin snapper, Lutjanus buccanella Red snapper, Lutjanus campechanus Cubera snapper, Lutjanus cyanopterus Gray (mangrove) snapper, Lutjanus griseus Lane snapper, Lutjanus synagris Silk snapper, Lutjanus vivanus Yellowtail snapper, Ocyurus chrysurus Wenchman, Pristipomoides aquilonaris Vermilion snapper, Rhomboplites aurorubens Malacanthidae—Tilefishes Goldface tilefish, Caulolatilus chrysops Blueline tilefish, Caulolatilus microps Tilefish, Lopholatilus chamaeleonticeps Serranidae—Groupers Speckled hind, Epinephelus drummondhayi Yellowedge grouper, Epinephelus flavolimbatus Goliath grouper, Epinephelus itajara Red grouper, Epinephelus morio Warsaw grouper, Epinephelus nigritus Snowy grouper, Epinephelus niveatus Black grouper, Mycteroperca bonaci Yellowmouth grouper, Mycteroperca interstitialis Gag, Mycteroperca microlepis Scamp, Mycteroperca phenax Yellowfin grouper, Mycteroperca venenosa 480 50 CFR Ch. VI (10–1–22 Edition) Pt. 622, App. B TABLE 2 TO APPENDIX A TO PART 622—SOUTH ATLANTIC SNAPPER-GROUPER Balistidae—Triggerfishes Gray triggerfish, Balistes capriscus Carangidae—Jacks Bar jack, Caranx ruber Greater amberjack, Seriola dumerili Lesser amberjack, Seriola fasciata Almaco jack, Seriola rivoliana Ephippidae—Spadefishes Spadefish, Chaetodipterus faber Haemulidae—Grunts Margate, Haemulon album Tomtate, Haemulon aurolineatum Sailor’s choice, Haemulon parra White grunt, Haemulon plumierii Labridae—Wrasses Hogfish, Lachnolaimus maximus Lutjanidae—Snappers Queen snapper, Etelis oculatus Mutton snapper, Lutjanus analis Blackfin snapper, Lutjanus buccanella Red snapper, Lutjanus campechanus Cubera snapper, Lutjanus cyanopterus Gray snapper, Lutjanus griseus Lane snapper, Lutjanus synagris Silk snapper, Lutjanus vivanus Yellowtail snapper, Ocyurus chrysurus Vermilion snapper, Rhomboplites aurorubens Malacanthidae—Tilefishes Blueline tilefish, Caulolatilus microps Golden tilefish, Lopholatilus chamaeleonticeps Sand tilefish, Malacanthus plumieri Percichthyidae—Temperate basses Wreckfish, Polyprion americanus Serranidae—Groupers Rock hind, Epinephelus adscensionis Graysby, Epinephelus cruentatus Speckled hind, Epinephelus drummondhayi Yellowedge grouper, Epinephelus flavolimbatus Coney, Epinephelus fulvus Red hind, Epinephelus guttatus TABLE 2 TO APPENDIX A TO PART 622—SOUTH ATLANTIC SNAPPER-GROUPER—Continued Goliath grouper, Epinephelus itajara Red grouper, Epinephelus morio Misty grouper, Epinephelus mystacinus Warsaw grouper, Epinephelus nigritus Snowy grouper, Epinephelus niveatus Nassau grouper, Epinephelus striatus Black grouper, Mycteroperca bonaci Yellowmouth grouper, Mycteroperca interstitialis Gag, Mycteroperca microlepis Scamp, Mycteroperca phenax Yellowfin grouper, Mycteroperca venenosa Serranidae—Sea Basses: Black sea bass, Centropristis striata Sparidae—Porgies Jolthead porgy, Calamus bajonado Saucereye porgy, Calamus calamus Whitebone porgy, Calamus leucosteus Knobbed porgy, Calamus nodosus Red porgy, Pagrus pagrus Scup, Stenotomus chrysops The following species are designated as ecosystem component species: Cottonwick, Haemulon melanurum Bank sea bass, Centropristis ocyurus Rock sea bass, Centropristis philadelphica Longspine porgy, Stenotomus caprinus Ocean triggerfish, Canthidermis sufflamen TABLE 3 TO APPENDIX A TO PART 622— ATLANTIC DOLPHIN AND WAHOO Dolphin, Coryphaena equiselis or Coryphaena hippurus Wahoo, Acanthocybium solandri The following species are designated as ecosystem component species: Bullet mackerel, Auxis rochei Frigate mackerel, Auxis thazard APPENDIX B TO PART 622—GULF AREAS TABLE 1 OF APPENDIX B TO PART 622—SEAWARD COORDINATES OF THE LONGLINE AND BUOY GEAR RESTRICTED AREA Point number and reference location 1 North lat. West long. 1 Seaward limit of State and Federal Reef Fish Management Boundary north of Dry Tortugas. 24°48.0′ ................................... 82°48.0′ 2 North of Rebecca Shoal ........................................................ 25°07.5′ ................................... 82°34.0′ 3 Off Sanibel Island—Offshore ................................................. 26°26.0′ ................................... 82°59.0′ 4 West of Egmont Key .............................................................. 27°30.0′ ................................... 83°21.5′ 5 Off Anclote Keys—Offshore .................................................. 28°10.0′ ................................... 83°45.0′ 6 Southeast corner of Florida Middle Ground .......................... 28°11.0′ ................................... 84°00.0′ 7 Southwest corner of Florida Middle Ground ......................... 28°11.0′ ................................... 84°07.0′ 8 West corner of Florida Middle Ground .................................. 28°26.6′ ................................... 84°24.8′ 9 Northwest corner of Florida Middle Ground .......................... 28°42.5′ ................................... 84°24.8′ 10 South of Carrabelle .............................................................. 29°05.0′ ................................... 84°47.0′ 11 South of Cape St. George ................................................... 29°02.5′ ................................... 85°09.0′ 12 South of Cape San Blas lighted bell buoy—20 fathoms ..... 29°21.0′ ................................... 85°30.0′ 13 South of Cape San Blas lighted bell buoy—50 fathoms ..... 28°58.7′ ................................... 85°30.0′ 481 Fishery Conservation and Management Pt. 622, App. B TABLE 1 OF APPENDIX B TO PART 622—SEAWARD COORDINATES OF THE LONGLINE AND BUOY GEAR RESTRICTED AREA—Continued Point number and reference location 1 North lat. West long. 14 De Soto Canyon .................................................................. 30°06.0′ ................................... 86°55.0′ 15 South of Pensacola ............................................................. 29°46.0′ ................................... 87°19.0′ 16 South of Perdido Bay .......................................................... 29°29.0′ ................................... 87°27.5′ 17 East of North Pass of Mississippi River .............................. 29°14.5′ ................................... 88°28.0′ 18 East of South Pass of Mississippi River ............................. 29°04.0′ ................................... 88°49.7′ at State and Federal Reef Fish Management Boundary Then westerly along the seaward limit of the State and Fed eral Reef Fish Management Boundary to: 19 South of Southwest Pass of Mississippi River ..................... 28°45.8′ ................................... 89°29.5′ 20 Northwest tip of Mississippi Canyon ................................... 28°38.5′ ................................... 90°08.5′ 21 West side of Mississippi Canyon ......................................... 28°34.5′ ................................... 89°59.5′ 22 South of Timbalier Bay ........................................................ 28°22.5′ ................................... 90°02.5′ 23 South of Terrebonne Bay .................................................... 28°10.5′ ................................... 90°31.5′ 24 South of Freeport ................................................................. 27°58.0′ ................................... 95°00.0′ 25 Off Matagorda Island ........................................................... 27°43.0′ ................................... 96°02.0′ 26 Off Aransas Pass ................................................................. 27°30.0′ ................................... 96°23.5′ 27 Northeast of Port Mansfield ................................................. 27°00.0′ ................................... 96°39.0′ 28 East of Port Mansfield ......................................................... 26°44.0′ ................................... 96°37.5′ 29 Northeast of Port Isabel ....................................................... 26°22.0′ ................................... 96°21.0′ 30 U.S. and Mexico EEZ boundary .......................................... 26°00.5′ ................................... 96°24.5′ Then westerly along U.S. and Mexico EEZ boundary to sea ward limit of the State and Federal Reef Fish Management Boundary 1 Nearest identifiable landfall, boundary, navigational aid, or submarine area. TABLE 2 OF APPENDIX B TO PART 622—SEAWARD COORDINATES OF THE STRESSED AREA Point number and reference location 1 North lat. West long. 1 Seaward limit of State and Federal Reef Fish Management Boundary northeast of Dry Tortugas. 24°45.5′ ................................... 82°41.5′ 2 North of Marquesas Keys ...................................................... 24°48.0′ ................................... 82°06.5′ 3 Off Cape Sable ...................................................................... 25°15.0′ ................................... 82°02.0′ 4 Off Sanibel Island—Inshore ................................................... 26°26.0′ ................................... 82°29.0′ 5 Off Sanibel Island—Offshore ................................................. 26°26.0′ ................................... 82°59.0′ 6 West of Egmont Key .............................................................. 27°30.0′ ................................... 83°21.5′ 7 Off Anclote Keys—Offshore .................................................. 28°10.0′ ................................... 83°45.0′ 8 Off Anclote Keys—Inshore .................................................... 28°10.0′ ................................... 83°14.0′ 9 Off Deadman Bay .................................................................. 29°38.0′ ................................... 84°00.0′ 10 Seaward limit of State and Federal Reef Fish Manage ment Boundary east of Cape St. George. 29°35.5′ ................................... 84°38.6′ Then westerly along the seaward limit of State and Federal Reef Fish Management Boundary to: 11 Seaward limit of State and Federal Reef Fish Manage ment Boundary south of Cape San Blas. 29°32.2′ ................................... 85°27.1′ 12 Southwest of Cape San Blas .............................................. 29°30.5′ ................................... 85°52.0′ 13 Off St. Andrew Bay .............................................................. 29°53.0′ ................................... 86°10.0′ 14 De Soto Canyon .................................................................. 30°06.0′ ................................... 86°55.0′ 15 South of Florida and Alabama border ................................. 29°34.5′ ................................... 87°38.0′ 16 Off Mobile Bay ..................................................................... 29°41.0′ ................................... 88°00.0′ 17 South of Alabama and Mississippi border ........................... 30°01.5′ ................................... 88°23.7′ 18 Horn and Chandeleur Islands .............................................. 30°01.5′ ................................... 88°39.8′ at State and Federal Reef Fish Management Boundary Then southerly along the seaward limit of State and Federal Reef Fish Management Boundary to: 19 Seaward limit of State and Federal Reef Fish Manage ment Boundary off Chandeleur Islands. 29°50.8′ ................................... 88°39.07′ at State and Federal Reef Fish Management Boundary 20 Chandeleur Islands .............................................................. 29°35.5′ ................................... 88°37.0′ 21 Seaward limit of State and Federal Reef Fish Manage ment Boundary off North Pass of Mississippi River. 29°21.0′ ................................... 88°54.43′ at State and Federal Reef Fish Management Boundary Then southerly and westerly along the seaward limit of State and Federal Reef Fish Management Boundary to: 22 Seaward limit of State and Federal Reef Fish Manage ment Boundary off Southwest Pass of Mississippi River. 29°01.3′ ................................... 89°34.67′ at State and Federal Reef Fish Management Boundary 482 50 CFR Ch. VI (10–1–22 Edition) Pt. 622, App. C TABLE 2 OF APPENDIX B TO PART 622—SEAWARD COORDINATES OF THE STRESSED AREA— Continued Point number and reference location 1 North lat. West long. 23 Seaward limit of the State and Federal Reef Fish Manage ment Boundary west of Mississippi River. 29°5.24′ at State and Federal Reef Fish Management Boundary. 89°41.0′ Then westerly along the seaward limit of the State and Fed eral Reef Fish Management Boundary to: 24 Seaward limit of State and Federal Reef Fish Manage ment Boundary south of Grand Isle. 29°3.03′ at State and Federal Reef Fish Management Boundary. 89°56.0′ 25 Quick flashing horn buoy south of Isles Dernieres ............. 28°32.5′ ................................... 90°42.0′ 26 Southeast of Calcasieu Pass .............................................. 29°10.0′ ................................... 92°37.0′ 27 South of Sabine Pass—10 fathoms .................................... 29°09.0′ ................................... 93°41.0′ 28 South of Sabine Pass—30 fathoms .................................... 28°21.5′ ................................... 93°28.0′ 29 East of Aransas Pass .......................................................... 27°49.0′ ................................... 96°19.5′ 30 East of Baffin Bay ................................................................ 27°12.0′ ................................... 96°51.0′ 31 Northeast of Port Mansfield ................................................. 26°46.5′ ................................... 96°52.0′ 32 Northeast of Port Isabel ....................................................... 26°21.5′ ................................... 96°35.0′ 33 U.S. and Mexico EEZ boundary .......................................... 26°00.5′ ................................... 96°36.0′ Then westerly along U.S. and Mexico EEZ boundary to sea ward limit of the State and Federal Reef Fish Management Boundary 1 Nearest identifiable landfall, boundary, navigational aid, or submarine area. [85 FR 20614, Apr. 14, 2020, as amended at 85 FR 36165, June 15, 2020] APPENDIX C TO PART 622—FISH LENGTH MEASUREMENTS 483 Fishery Conservation and Management Pt. 622, App. D APPENDIX D TO PART 622— SPECIFICATIONS FOR CERTIFIED BRDS A. Extended Funnel. 1. Description. The extended funnel BRD consists of an extension with large-mesh webbing in the center (the large-mesh escape section) and small-mesh webbing on each end held open by a semi-rigid hoop. A funnel of small-mesh webbing is placed inside the ex tension to form a passage for shrimp to the cod end. It also creates an area of reduced water flow to allow for fish escapement through the large mesh. One side of the fun nel is extended vertically to form a lead panel and area of reduced water flow. There are two sizes of extended funnel BRDs, a standard size and an inshore size for small trawls. 2. Minimum Construction and Installation Re quirements for Standard Size. (a) Extension Material. The small-mesh sec tions used on both sides of the large-mesh es cape section are constructed of 15⁄8 inch (4.13 cm), No. 30 stretched mesh, nylon webbing. The front section is 120 meshes around by 61⁄2 484 50 CFR Ch. VI (10–1–22 Edition) Pt. 622, App. D meshes deep. The back section is 120 meshes around by 23 meshes deep. (b) Large-Mesh Escape Section. The large mesh escape section is constructed of 8 to 10 inch (20.3 to 25.4 cm), stretched mesh, web bing. This section is cut on the bar to form a section that is 15 inches (38.1 cm) in length by 95 inches (241.3 cm) in circumference. The leading edge is attached to the 61⁄2-mesh ex tension section and the rear edge is attached to the 23-mesh extension section. (c) Funnel. The funnel is constructed of 11⁄2 inch (3.81 cm), stretched mesh, No. 30 depth stretched and heat-set polyethylene webbing. The circumference of the leading edge is 120 meshes and the back edge is 78 meshes. The short side of the funnel is 34 to 36 inches (86.4 to 91.4 cm) long and the opposite side of the funnel extends an additional 22 to 24 inches (55.9 to 61.0 cm). The circumference of the leading edge of the funnel is attached to the forward small-mesh section three meshes forward of the large-mesh escape section and is evenly sewn, mesh for mesh, to the small mesh section. The after edge of the funnel is attached to the after small-mesh section at its top and bottom eight meshes back from the large-mesh escape panel. Seven meshes of the top and seven meshes of the bottom of the funnel are attached to eight meshes at the top and bottom of the small-mesh sec tion, such eight meshes being located imme diately adjacent to the top and bottom cen ters of the small-mesh section on the side of the funnel’s extended side. The extended side of the funnel is sewn at its top and bottom to the top and bottom of the small-mesh sec tion, extending at an angle toward the top and bottom centers of the small-mesh sec tion. (d) Semi-Rigid Hoop. A 30-inch (76.2-cm) di ameter hoop constructed of plastic-coated trawl cable, swaged together with a 3⁄8-inch (9.53-mm) micropress sleeve, is installed five meshes behind the trailing edge of the large mesh escape section. The extension webbing must be laced to the ring around the entire circumference and must be equally distrib uted on the hoop, that is, 30 meshes must be evenly attached to each quadrant. (e) Installation. The extended funnel BRD is attached 8 inches (20.3 cm) behind the pos terior edge of the TED. If it is attached be hind a soft TED, a second semi-rigid hoop, as prescribed in paragraph A.2.(d), must be in stalled in the front section of the BRD exten sion webbing at the leading edge of the fun nel. The cod end of the trawl net is attached to the trailing edge of the BRD. 3. Minimum Construction and Installation Re quirements for Inshore Size. (a) Extension Material. The small-mesh sec tions used on both sides of the large-mesh es cape section are constructed of 13⁄8 inch (3.5 cm), No. 18 stretched mesh, nylon webbing. The front section is 120 meshes around by 61⁄2 meshes deep. The back section is 120 meshes around by 23 meshes deep. (b) Large-Mesh Escape Section. The large mesh escape section is constructed of 8 to 10 inch (20.3 to 25.4 cm), stretched mesh, web bing. This section is cut on the bar to form a section that is 15 inches (38.1 cm) by 75 inches (190.5 cm) in circumference. The lead ing edge is attached to the 61⁄2-mesh exten sion section and the rear edge is attached to the 23-mesh extension section. (c) Funnel. The funnel is constructed of 13⁄8 inch (3.5 cm), stretched mesh, No. 18 depth stretched and heat-set polyethylene webbing. The circumference of the leading edge is 120 meshes and the back edge is 78 meshes. The short side of the funnel is 30 to 32 inches (76.2 to 81.3 cm) long and the opposite side of the funnel extends an additional 20 to 22 inches (50.8 to 55.9 cm). The circumference of the leading edge of the funnel is attached to the forward small-mesh section three meshes forward of the large-mesh escape section and is evenly sewn, mesh for mesh, to the small mesh section. The after edge of the funnel is attached to the after small-mesh section at its top and bottom eight meshes back from the large-mesh escape panel. Seven meshes of the top and seven meshes of the bottom of the funnel are attached to eight meshes at the top and bottom of the small-mesh sec tion, such eight meshes being located imme diately adjacent to the top and bottom cen ters of the small-mesh section on the side of the funnel’s extended side. The extended side of the funnel is sewn at its top and bottom to the top and bottom of the small-mesh sec tion, extending at an angle toward the top and bottom centers of the small-mesh sec tion. (d) Semi-Rigid Hoop. A 24-inch (61.0-cm) di ameter hoop constructed of plastic-coated trawl cable, swaged together with a 3⁄8-inch (9.53-mm) micropress sleeve, is installed five meshes behind the trailing edge of the large mesh section. The extension webbing must be laced to the ring around the entire cir cumference and must be equally distributed on the hoop, that is, 30 meshes must be even ly attached to each quadrant. (e) Installation. The extended funnel BRD is attached 8 inches (20.3 cm) behind the pos terior edge of the TED. If it is attached be hind a soft TED, a second semi-rigid hoop, as prescribed in paragraph A.3.(d), must be in stalled in the front section of the BRD exten sion webbing at the leading edge of the fun nel. The cod end of the trawl net is attached to the trailing edge of the BRD. B. Expanded Mesh. The expanded mesh BRD is constructed and installed exactly the same as the standard size extended funnel BRD, except that one side of the funnel is not extended to form a lead panel. C. Fisheye. 485 Fishery Conservation and Management Pt. 622, App. D 1. Description. The fisheye BRD is a cone shaped rigid frame constructed from alu minum or steel rod of at least 1⁄4 inch (6.35 mm) diameter, which is inserted into the cod end to form an escape opening. 2. Minimum Construction and Installation Re quirements. The fisheye has a minimum es cape opening dimension of 5 inches (12.7 cm) and a minimum total escape opening area of 36 in2 (91.4 cm2). When the fisheye BRD is in stalled, no part of the lazy line attachment system (i.e., any mechanism, such as ele phant ears or choker straps, used to attach the lazy line to the cod end) may overlap the fisheye escape opening when the fisheye is installed aft of the attachment point of the cod end retrieval system. (a) In the Gulf EEZ, the fisheye BRD must be installed at the top center of the cod end of the trawl to create an opening in the trawl facing in the direction of the mouth of the trawl no further forward than 9 ft (2.7 m) from the cod end drawstring (tie-off rings). (b) In the South Atlantic EEZ, the fisheye BRD must be installed at the top center of the cod end of the trawl to create an escape opening in the trawl facing the direction of the mouth of the trawl no further forward than 11 ft (3.4 m) from the cod end tie-off rings. D. Gulf fisheye. 1. Description. The Gulf fisheye is a cone shaped rigid frame constructed from alu minum or steel rod of at least 1⁄4 inch (6.35 mm) diameter, which is inserted into the top center of the cod end, and is offset not more than 15 meshes perpendicular to the top cen ter of the cod end to form an escape opening. 2. Minimum Construction and Installation Re quirements. The Gulf fisheye has a minimum escape opening dimension of 5 inches (12.7 cm) and a minimum total escape opening area of 36 in2 (91.4 cm2). To be used in the South Atlantic EEZ, the Gulf fisheye BRD must be installed in the cod end of the trawl to create an escape opening in the trawl, fac ing in the direction of the mouth of the trawl, no less than 8.5 ft (2.59 m) and no fur ther forward than 12.5 ft (3.81 m) from the cod end tie-off rings, and may be offset no more than 15 meshes perpendicular to the top center of the cod end. When the Gulf fisheye BRD is installed, no part of the lazy line attachment system (i.e., any mecha nism, such as elephant ears or choker straps, used to attach the lazy line to the cod end) may overlap the fisheye escape opening when the fisheye is installed aft of the attachment point of the cod end retrieval system. E. Jones-Davis. 1. Description. The Jones-Davis BRD is similar to the expanded mesh and the ex tended funnel BRDs except that the fish es cape openings are windows cut around the funnel rather than large-mesh sections. In addition, a webbing cone fish deflector is in stalled behind the funnel. 2. Minimum Construction and Installation Re quirements. The Jones-Davis BRD must con tain all of the following. (a) Webbing extension. The webbing exten sion must be constructed from a single piece of 15⁄8-inch (3.5-cm) stretch mesh number 30 nylon 42 meshes by 120 meshes. A tube is formed from the extension webbing by sew ing the 42-mesh side together. (b) 28-inch (71.1-cm) cable hoop. A single hoop must be constructed of 1⁄2-inch (1.3-cm) steel cable 88 inches (223.5 cm) in length. The cable must be joined at its ends by a 3-inch (7.6-cm) piece of 1⁄2-inch (1.3-cm) aluminum pipe and pressed with a 3⁄8-inch (0.95-cm) die to form a hoop. The inside diameter of this hoop must be between 27 and 29 inches (68.6 and 73.7 cm). The hoop must be attached to the extension webbing 171⁄2 meshes behind the leading edge. The extension webbing must be quartered and attached in four places around the hoop, and every other mesh must be attached all the way around the hoop using number 24 twine or larger. The hoop must be laced with 3⁄8-inch (0.95 cm) polypropylene or polyethylene rope for chaffing. (c) 24-inch (61.0-cm) hoop. A single hoop must be constructed of either number 60 twine 80 inches (203.2 cm) in length or 3⁄8-inch (0.95-cm) steel cable 751⁄2 inches (191.8 cm) in length. If twine is used, the twine must be laced in and out of the extension webbing 39 meshes behind the leading edge, and the ends must be tied together. If cable is used, the cable must be joined at its ends by a 3-inch (7.6-cm) piece of 3⁄8-inch (0.95-cm) aluminum pipe and pressed together with a 1⁄4-inch (0.64-cm) die to form a hoop. The inside di ameter of this hoop must be between 23 and 25 inches (58.4 and 63.4 cm). The hoop must be attached to the extension webbing 39 meshes behind the leading edge. The extension web bing must be quartered and attached in four places around the hoop, and every other mesh must be attached all the way around the hoop using number 24 twine or larger. The hoop must be laced with 3⁄8-inch (0.95 cm) polypropylene or polyethylene rope for chaffing. (d) Funnel. The funnel must be constructed from four sections of 11⁄2-inch (3.8-cm) heat set and depth-stretched polypropylene or polyethylene webbing. The two side sections must be rectangular in shape, 291⁄2 meshes on the leading edge by 23 meshes deep. The top and bottom sections are 291⁄2 meshes on the leading edge by 23 meshes deep and tapered 1 point 2 bars on both sides down to 8 meshes across the back. The four sections must be sewn together down the 23-mesh edge to form the funnel. (e) Attachment of the funnel in the webbing extension. The funnel must be installed two meshes behind the leading edge of the exten sion starting at the center seam of the ex tension and the center mesh of the funnel’s 486 50 CFR Ch. VI (10–1–22 Edition) Pt. 622, App. D top section leading edge. On the same row of meshes, the funnel must be sewn evenly all the way around the inside of the extension. The funnel’s top and bottom back edges must be attached one mesh behind the 28 inch (71.1-cm) cable hoop (front hoop). Start ing at the top center seam, the back edge of the top funnel section must be attached four meshes each side of the center. Counting around 60 meshes from the top center, the back edge of the bottom section must be at tached 4 meshes on each side of the bottom center. Clearance between the side of the funnel and the 28-inch (71.1-cm) cable hoop (front hoop) must be at least 6 inches (15.2 cm) when measured in the hanging position. (f) Cutting the escape openings. The leading edge of the escape opening must be located within 18 inches (45.7 cm) of the posterior edge of the turtle excluder device (TED) grid. The area of the escape opening must total at least 864 in2 (5,574.2 cm2). Two escape open ings 10 meshes wide by 13 meshes deep must be cut 6 meshes apart in the extension web bing, starting at the top center extension seam, 3 meshes back from the leading edge and 16 meshes to the left and to the right (total of four openings). The four escape openings must be double selvaged for strength. (g) Alternative Method for Constructing the Funnel and Escape Openings. The following method for constructing the funnel and es cape openings may be used instead of the method described in paragraphs F.2.d., F.2.e., and F.2.f. of this section. With this alter native method, the funnel and escape open ings are formed by cutting a flap in each side of the extension webbing; pushing the flaps inward; and attaching the top and bottom edges along the bars of the extension web bing to form the v-shape of the funnel. Min imum requirements applicable to this meth od include: The funnel’s top and bottom back edges must be attached one mesh behind the 28-inch (71.1-cm) cable hoop (front hoop); clearance between the side of the funnel and the 28-inch (71.1-cm) cable hoop (front hoop) must be at least 6 inches (15.2 cm) when measured in the hanging position; the lead ing edge of the escape opening must be lo cated within 18 inches (45.7 cm) of the pos terior edge of the turtle excluder device (TED) grid; and, the area of the escape open ing must total at least 864 in2 (5,574.2 cm2). To construct the funnel and escape openings using this method, begin 31⁄2 meshes from the leading edge of the extension, at the top cen ter seam, count over 18 meshes on each side, and cut 13 meshes toward the back of the ex tension. Turn parallel to the leading edge, and cut 26 meshes toward the bottom center of the extension. Next, turn parallel to the top center seam, and cut 13 meshes forward toward the leading edge, creating a flap of webbing 13 meshes by 26 meshes by 13 meshes. Lengthen the flap to 18 meshes by adding a 41⁄2-mesh by 26-mesh rectangular section of webbing to the 26-mesh edge. At tach the 18-mesh edges to the top and bot tom of the extension by sewing 2 bars of the extension to 1 mesh on the flap in toward the top center and bottom center of the exten sion, forming the exit opening and the fun nel. Connect the two flaps together in the center with a 7-inch piece of number 42 twine to allow adequate clearance for fish escapement between the flaps and the side openings. On each side, sew a 6-mesh by 101⁄2 mesh section of webbing to 6 meshes of the center of the 26-mesh cut on the extension and 6 meshes centered between the 13-mesh cuts 31⁄2 meshes from the leading edge. This forms two 10-mesh by 13-mesh openings on each side. (h) Cone fish deflector. The cone fish deflec tor is constructed of 2 pieces of 15⁄8-inch (4.13 cm) polypropylene or polyethylene webbing, 40 meshes wide by 20 meshes in length and cut on the bar on each side forming a tri angle. Starting at the apex of the two tri angles, the two pieces must be sewn together to form a cone of webbing. The apex of the cone fish deflector must be positioned within 10–14 inches (25.4–35.6 cm) of the posterior edge of the funnel. (i) 11-inch (27.9-cm) cable hoop for cone de flector. A single hoop must be constructed of 5⁄16-inch (0.79-cm) or 3⁄8-inch (0.95-cm) cable 341⁄2 inches (87.6 cm) in length. The ends must be joined by a 3-inch (7.6-cm) piece of 3⁄8-inch (0.95-cm) aluminum pipe pressed together with a 1⁄4-inch (0.64-cm) die. The hoop must be inserted in the webbing cone, attached 10 meshes from the apex and laced all the way around with heavy twine. (j) Installation of the cone in the extension. The cone must be installed in the extension 12 inches (30.5 cm) behind the back edge of the funnel and attached in four places. The midpoint of a piece of number 60 twine 4 ft (1.22 m) in length must be attached to the apex of the cone. This piece of twine must be attached to the 28-inch (71.1-cm) cable hoop at the center of each of its sides; the points of attachment for the two pieces of twine must be measured 20 inches (50.8 cm) from the midpoint attachment. Two 8-inch (20.3 cm) pieces of number 60 twine must be at tached to the top and bottom of the 11-inch (27.9-cm) cone hoop. The opposite ends of these two pieces of twine must be attached to the top and bottom center of the 24-inch (61-cm) cable hoop; the points of attachment for the two pieces of twine must be measured 4 inches (10.2 cm) from the points where they are tied to the 11-inch (27.9-cm) cone hoop. F. Modified Jones-Davis. 1. Description. The Modified Jones-Davis BRD is a variation to the alternative funnel construction method of the Jones-Davis BRD except the funnel is assembled by using depth-stretched and heat-set polyethylene webbing instead of the flaps formed from the 487 Fishery Conservation and Management Pt. 622, App. D extension webbing. In addition, no hoops are used to hold the BRD open. 2. Minimum Construction and Installation Re quirements. The Modified Jones-Davis BRD must contain all of the following. (a) Webbing extension. The webbing exten sion must be constructed from a single rec tangular piece of 15⁄8-inch (4.1-cm) stretch mesh number 30 nylon with dimensions of 391⁄2 meshes by 150 meshes. A tube is formed from the extension webbing by sewing the 391⁄2-mesh-sides together. (b) Funnel. The funnel must be constructed from two sections of 15⁄8-inch (4.1-cm) heat set and depth-stretched polypropylene or polyethylene webbing. The two side sections must be rectangular in shape, 25 meshes on the leading edge by 21 meshes deep. The 25 mesh leading edge of each polyethylene web bing section must be sewn evenly two meshes in from the front of the extension webbing starting 25 meshes from the top cen ter on each side. The 21-mesh edge must be sewn to the extension webbing on a 9-bar and 1-mesh angle in the top and bottom, forming a V-shape funnel. (c) Cutting the escape opening. The leading edge of the escape openings must be located within 18 inches (45.7 cm) of the posterior edge of the turtle excluder device (TED) grid. The area of the escape opening must total at least 635 in2 (4,097 cm2). Two escape openings, 6 meshes wide by 12 meshes deep, must be cut 4 meshes apart in the extension webbing, starting at the top center extension seam, 7 meshes back from the leading edge, and 30 meshes to the left and to the right (total of four openings). The four escape openings must be double selvaged for strength. (d) Cone fish deflector. The cone fish deflec tor is constructed of 2 pieces of 15⁄8-inch (4.1 cm) polypropylene or polyethylene webbing, 40 meshes wide by 20 meshes in length and cut on the bar on each side forming a tri angle. Starting at the apex of the two tri angles, the two pieces must be sewn together to form a cone of webbing. The apex of the cone fish deflector must be positioned within 12 inches (30.5 cm) of the posterior edge of the funnel. (e) 11-inch (27.9-cm) cable hoop for cone de flector. A single hoop must be constructed of 5⁄16-inch (0.79-cm) or 3⁄8-inch (0.95-cm) cable 341⁄2 inches (87.6 cm) in length. The ends must be joined by a 3-inch (7.6-cm) piece of 3⁄8-inch (0.95-cm) aluminum pipe pressed together with a 1⁄4-inch (0.64-cm) die. The hoop must be inserted in the webbing cone, attached 10 meshes from the apex and laced all the way around with heavy twine. (f) Installation of the cone in the extension. The apex of the cone must be installed in the extension within 12 inches (30.5 cm) behind the back edge of the funnel and attached in four places. The midpoint of a piece of num ber 60 twine (or at least 4-mesh wide strip of number 21 or heavier webbing) 3 ft (1.22 m) in length must be attached to the apex of the cone. This piece of twine or webbing must be attached within 5 meshes of the aft edge of the funnel at the center of each of its sides. Two 12-inch (30.5-cm) pieces of number 60 (or heavier) twine must be attached to the top and bottom of the 11-inch (27.9-cm) cone hoop. The opposite ends of these two pieces of twine must be attached to the top and bottom center of the extension webbing to keep the cone from inverting into the funnel. G. [Reserved] H. Cone Fish Deflector Composite Panel. 1. Description. The Cone Fish Deflector Com posite Panel BRD is a variation to the alter native funnel construction method of the Jones-Davis BRD, except the funnel is as sembled by using depth-stretched and heat set polyethylene webbing with square mesh panels on the inside instead of the flaps formed from the extension webbing. In addi tion, no hoops are used to hold the BRD open. 2. Minimum Construction and Installation Re quirements. The Cone Fish Deflector Com posite Panel BRD must contain all of the fol lowing: (a) Webbing extension. The webbing exten sion must be constructed from a single rec tangular piece of 11⁄2-inch to 13⁄4-inch (3.8-cm to 4.5-cm) stretch mesh with dimensions of 241⁄2 meshes by 150 to 160 meshes. A tube is formed from the extension webbing piece by sewing the 241⁄2-mesh sides together. The leading edge of the webbing extension must be attached no more than 4 meshes from the posterior edge of the TED grid. (b) Funnel. The V-shaped funnel consists of two webbing panels attached to the exten sion along the leading edge of the panels. The top and bottom edges of the panels are sewn diagonally across the extension toward the center to form the funnel. The panels are 2-ply in design, each with an inner layer of 11⁄2-inch to 15⁄8-inch (3.8-cm to 4.1-cm) heat set and depth-stretched polyethylene web bing and an outer layer constructed of no larger than 2-inch (5.1-cm) square mesh web bing (1-inch bar). The inner webbing layer must be rectangular in shape, 36 meshes on the leading edge by 20 meshes deep. The 36 mesh leading edges of the polyethylene web bing should be sewn evenly to 24 meshes of the extension webbing 11⁄2 meshes from and parallel to the leading edge of the extension starting 12 meshes up from the bottom cen ter on each side. Alternately sew 2 meshes of the polyethylene webbing to 1 mesh of the extension webbing then 1 mesh of the poly ethylene webbing to 1 mesh of the extension webbing toward the top. The bottom 20-mesh edges of the polyethylene layers are sewn evenly to the extension webbing on a 2 bar 1 mesh angle toward the bottom back center forming a v-shape in the bottom of the ex tension webbing. The top 20-mesh edges of the polyethylene layers are sewn evenly 488 50 CFR Ch. VI (10–1–22 Edition) Pt. 622, App. D along the bars of the extension webbing to ward the top back center. The square mesh layers must be rectangular in shape and con structed of no larger than 2-inch (5.1-cm) webbing that is 18 inches (45.7 cm) in length on the leading edge. The depth of the square mesh layer must be no more than 2 inches (5.1 cm) less than the 20 mesh side of the inner polyethylene layer when stretched taught. The 18-inch (45.7-cm) leading edge of each square mesh layer must be sewn evenly to the 36-mesh leading edge of the poly ethylene section and the sides are sewn even ly (in length) to the 20-mesh edges of the pol yethylene webbing. This will form a v-shape funnel using the top of the extension web bing as the top of the funnel and the bottom of the extension webbing as the bottom of the funnel. (c) Cutting the escape opening. There are two escape openings on each side of the fun nel. The leading edge of the escape openings must be located on the same row of meshes in the extension webbing as the leading edge of the composite panels. The lower openings are formed by starting at the first attach ment point of the composite panels and cut ting 9 meshes in the extension webbing on an even row of meshes toward the top of the ex tension. Next, turn 90 degrees and cut 15 points on an even row toward the back of the extension webbing. At this point turn and cut 18 bars toward the bottom front of the extension webbing. Finish the escape open ing by cutting 6 points toward the original starting point. The top escape openings start 5 meshes above and mirror the lower open ings. Starting at the leading edge of the composite panel and 5 meshes above the lower escape opening, cut 9 meshes in the ex tension on an even row of meshes toward the top of the extension. Next, turn 90 degrees, and cut 6 points on an even row toward the back of the extension webbing. Then cut 18 bars toward the bottom back of the exten sion. To complete the escape opening, cut 15 points forward toward the original starting point. The area of each escape opening must total at least 212 in2 (1,368 cm2). The four es cape openings must be double selvaged for strength. (d) Cone fish deflector. The cone fish deflec tor is constructed of 2 pieces of 15⁄8-inch (4.1 cm) polypropylene or polyethylene webbing, 40 meshes wide by 20 meshes in length and cut on the bar on each side forming a tri angle. Starting at the apex of the two tri angles, the two pieces must be sewn together to form a cone of webbing. The apex of the cone fish deflector must be positioned within 12 inches (30.5 cm) of the posterior edge of the funnel. (e) 11-inch (27.9-cm) cable hoop for cone de flector. A single hoop must be constructed of 5⁄16-inch (0.79-cm) or 3⁄8-inch (0.95-cm) cable 341⁄2 inches (87.6 cm) in length. The ends must be joined by a 3-inch (7.6-cm) piece of 3⁄8-inch (0.95-cm) aluminum pipe pressed together with a 1⁄4-inch (0.64-cm) die. The hoop must be inserted in the webbing cone, attached 10 meshes from the apex and laced all the way around with heavy twine. (f) Installation of the cone in the extension. The apex of the cone must be installed in the extension within 12 inches (30.5 cm) behind the back edge of the funnel and attached in four places. The midpoint of a piece of num ber 60 twine (or at least 4-mesh wide strip of number 21 or heavier webbing) 3 ft (1.22 m) in length must be attached to the apex of the cone. This piece of twine or webbing must be attached within 5 meshes of the aft edge of the funnel at the center of each of its sides. Two 12-inch (30.5-cm) pieces of number 60 (or heavier) twine must be attached to the top and bottom of the 11-inch (27.9-cm) cone hoop. The opposite ends of these two pieces of twine must be attached to the top and bottom center of the extension webbing to keep the cone from inverting into the funnel. I. Square Mesh Panel (SMP) Composite Panel 1. Description. The SMP is a panel of square mesh webbing placed in the top of the cod end to provide finfish escape openings. 2. Minimum Construction and Installation Re quirements. The SMP Composite Panel BRD must contain all of the following: (a) Webbing extension. The webbing exten sion must be constructed from a single rec tangular piece of 11⁄2-inch to 13⁄4-inch (3.8-cm to 4.5-cm) stretch mesh with dimensions of 241⁄2 meshes by 150 to 160 meshes. A tube is formed from the extension webbing piece by sewing the 241⁄2-mesh sides together. The leading edge of the webbing extension must be attached no more than 4 meshes from the posterior edge of the TED grid. (b) Funnel. The V-shaped funnel consists of two webbing panels attached to the exten sion along the leading edge of the panels. The top and bottom edges of the panels are sewn diagonally across the extension toward the center to form the funnel. The panels are 2-ply in design, each with an inner layer of 11⁄2-inch to 15⁄8-inch (3.8-cm to 4.1-cm) heat set and depth-stretched polyethylene web bing and an outer layer constructed of no larger than 2-inch (5.1-cm) square mesh web bing (1-inch bar). The inner webbing layer must be rectangular in shape, 36 meshes on the leading edge by 20 meshes deep. The 36 mesh leading edges of the polyethylene web bing should be sewn evenly to 24 meshes of the extension webbing 11⁄2 meshes from and parallel to the leading edge of the extension starting 12 meshes up from the bottom cen ter on each side. Alternately sew 2 meshes of the polyethylene webbing to 1 mesh of the extension webbing then 1 mesh of the poly ethylene webbing to 1 mesh of the extension webbing toward the top. The bottom 20-mesh edges of the polyethylene layers are sewn evenly to the extension webbing on a 2 bar 1 mesh angle toward the bottom back center 489 Fishery Conservation and Management Pt. 622, App. E forming a v-shape in the bottom of the ex tension webbing. The top 20-mesh edges of the polyethylene layers are sewn evenly along the bars of the extension webbing to ward the top back center. The square mesh layers must be rectangular in shape and con structed of no larger than 2-inch (5.1-cm) webbing that is 18 inches (45.7 cm) in length on the leading edge. The depth of the square mesh layer must be no more than 2 inches (5.1 cm) less than the 20 mesh side of the inner polyethylene layer when stretched taught. The 18-inch (45.7-cm) leading edge of each square mesh layer must be sewn evenly to the 36-mesh leading edge of the poly ethylene section and the sides are sewn even ly (in length) to the 20-mesh edges of the pol yethylene webbing. This will form a v-shape funnel using the top of the extension web bing as the top of the funnel and the bottom of the extension webbing as the bottom of the funnel. (c) Cutting the escape opening. There are two escape openings on each side of the fun nel. The leading edge of the escape openings must be located on the same row of meshes in the extension webbing as the leading edge of the composite panels. The lower openings are formed by starting at the first attach ment point of the composite panels and cut ting 9 meshes in the extension webbing on an even row of meshes toward the top of the ex tension. Next, turn 90 degrees and cut 15 points on an even row toward the back of the extension webbing. At this point turn and cut 18 bars toward the bottom front of the extension webbing. Finish the escape open ing by cutting 6 points toward the original starting point. The top escape openings start 5 meshes above and mirror the lower open ings. Starting at the leading edge of the composite panel and 5 meshes above the lower escape opening, cut 9 meshes in the ex tension on an even row of meshes toward the top of the extension. Next, turn 90 degrees, and cut 6 points on an even row toward the back of the extension webbing. Then cut 18 bars toward the bottom back of the exten sion. To complete the escape opening, cut 15 points forward toward the original starting point. The area of each escape opening must total at least 212 in2 (1,368 cm2). The four es cape openings must be double selvaged for strength. (d) SMP. The SMP is constructed from a single piece of square mesh webbing with a minimum dimension of 5 squares wide and 12 squares in length with a minimum mesh size of 3-inch (76-mm) stretched mesh. The max imum twine diameter of the square mesh is number 96 twine (4 mm). (e) Cutting the SMP escape opening. The es cape opening is a rectangular hole cut in the top center of the cod end webbing. The pos terior edge of the escape opening must be placed no farther forward that 8 ft (2.4 m) from the cod end drawstring (tie-off rings). The width of the escape opening, as meas ured across the cod end, must be four cod end meshes per square of the SMP (i.e., a cut of 20 cod end meshes for a SMP that is 5 meshes wide). The stretched mesh length of the es cape opening must be equal to the total length of the SMP. No portion of the SMP escape opening may be covered with addi tional material or netting such as chaffing webbing, which might impede or prevent fish escapement. (f) Installation of the SMP. The SMP must be attached to the edge of the escape opening evenly around the perimeter of the escape opening cut with heavy twine. APPENDIX E TO PART 622—CARIBBEAN ISLAND/ISLAND GROUP MANAGEMENT AREAS TABLE 1 OF APPENDIX E TO PART 622—Coordinates of the Puerto Rico Management Area. The Puerto Rico management area is bounded by rhumb lines connecting, in order, the fol lowing points. Point North latitude West longitude A (intersects with the International/EEZ boundary) .............................................. 19°37′29″ 65°20′57″ B ............................................................................................................................ 18°25′46.3015″ 65°06′31.866″ From Point B, proceed southerly along the 3-nautical mile Territorial boundary of the St. Thomas/St. John island group to Point C. C ............................................................................................................................ 18°13′59.0606″ 65°05′33.058″ D ............................................................................................................................ 18°01′16.9636″ 64°57′38.817″ E ............................................................................................................................ 17°30′00.000″ 65°20′00.1716″ F ............................................................................................................................ 16°02′53.5812″ 65°20′00.1716″ From Point F, proceed southwesterly, then northerly, then easterly, and finally southerly along the International/EEZ boundary to Point A. A (intersects with the International/EEZ boundary) .............................................. 19°37′29″ 65°20′57″ TABLE 2 OF APPENDIX E TO PART 622—Coordinates of the St. Croix Management Area. The St. Croix management area is bounded by rhumb lines connecting, in order, the fol lowing points. 490 50 CFR Ch. VI (10–1–22 Edition) Pt. 622, App. F Point North latitude West longitude G ............................................................................................................................ 18°03′03″ 64°38′03″ From Point G, proceed easterly, then southerly, then southwesterly along the International/EEZ boundary to Point F. F ............................................................................................................................ 16°02′53.5812″ 65°20′00.1716″ E ............................................................................................................................ 17°30′00.000″ 65°20′00.1716″ D ............................................................................................................................ 18°01′16.9636″ 64°57′38.817″ G ............................................................................................................................ 18°03′03″ 64°38′03″ TABLE 3 OF APPENDIX E TO PART 622—Coordinates of the St. Thomas/St. John Management Area. The St. Thomas/St. John management area is bounded by rhumb lines connecting, in order, the following points. Point North latitude West longitude A (intersects with the International/EEZ boundary) .............................................. 19°37′29″ 65°20′57″ From Point A, proceed southeasterly along the International/EEZ boundary to Point G. G ............................................................................................................................ 18°03′03″ 64°38′03″ D ............................................................................................................................ 18°01′16.9636″ 64°57′38.817″ C ............................................................................................................................ 18°13′59.0606″ 65°05′33.058″ From Point C, proceed northerly along the 3-nautical mile Territorial boundary of the St. Thomas/St. John island group to Point B. B ............................................................................................................................ 18°25′46.3015″ 65°06′31.866″ A (intersects with the International/EEZ boundary) .............................................. 19°37′29″ 65°20′57″ [78 FR 33258, June 4, 2013] APPENDIX F TO PART 622—SPECIFICA TIONS FOR SEA TURTLE RELEASE GEAR AND HANDLING REQUIRE MENTS A. Sea Turtle Release Gear 1. Long-handled line clipper or cutter. Line cutters are intended to cut fishing line as close as possible to the hook, and assist in removing line from an entangled sea turtle to minimize any remaining gear upon re lease. One long-handled line clipper or cutter and one set of replacement blades are re quired to be on board. The minimum design standards are as follows: (a) A protected and secured cutting blade. The cutting blade(s) must be capable of cut ting 2.0 to 2.1-mm (0.078 to 0.083-inch) diame ter monofilament line (approximately 400 to 450-lb test strength) or polypropylene multi strand material, known as braided or tarred mainline, and the cutting blade must be maintained in working order. The cutting blade must be curved, recessed, contained in a holder, or otherwise designed to facilitate its safe use so that direct contact between the cutting surface and the sea turtle or the user is prevented. The cutting instrument must be securely attached to an extended reach handle and the blade(s) must be easily replaceable during a trip if necessary. The extra set of replacement blades must meet these standards and be carried on board to replace all cutting surfaces on the line cut ter or clipper. (b) An extended reach handle. The line cut ter blade must be securely fastened to an ex tended reach handle or pole with a minimum length equal to or greater than 150 percent of the freeboard, or a minimum length of 6 ft (1.8 m), whichever is greater. The extended reach handle may break down into sections for storage, but it is not required. There is no restriction on the type of material used to construct this handle as long as it is stur dy and facilitates the secure attachment of the cutting blade. 2. Long-handled dehooker for internal hooks. One long-handled dehooker to remove inter nal hooks from sea turtles that cannot be brought on board is required on the vessel. It should also be used to engage an unattached hook when a sea turtle is entangled but not hooked, and line is being removed. The de sign must shield the point of the hook and prevent the hook from re-engaging during the removal process. The minimum design standards are as follows: (a) Hook removal device. The dehooker must be constructed of 3⁄16-inch (4.8-mm) to 5⁄16 inch (7.9-mm) diameter 316L or 304L stainless steel and have a dehooking end no larger than 17⁄8 inches (4.8 cm) outside diameter. The dehooker must securely engage and con trol the leader while shielding the point to prevent the hook from re-engaging during re moval. It may not have any unprotected ter minal points (including blunt ones), as these could cause injury to the esophagus during hook removal. The dehooker must be of a size appropriate to secure the range of hook sizes and styles used on the vessel. (b) Extended reach handle. The dehooking end that secures the fishhook must be se curely fastened to an extended reach handle 491 Fishery Conservation and Management Pt. 622, App. F or pole with a minimum length equal to or greater than 150 percent of the freeboard, or a minimum of 6 ft (1.8 m), whichever is greater. The extended reach handle may break down into sections for storage, but it is not required. The handle must be sturdy and strong enough to facilitate the secure attachment of the dehooking end. 3. Long-handled dehooker for external hooks. One long-handled dehooker to remove exter nal hooks from sea turtles that cannot be brought on board is required on the vessel. The long-handled dehooker for internal hooks described in paragraph A.2. of this ap pendix may be used to comply with this re quirement. The minimum design standards are as follows: (a) Hook removal device. A long-handled dehooker must be constructed of 3⁄16-inch (4.8-mm) to 5⁄16-inch (7.9-mm) diameter 316L or 304L stainless steel and have a dehooking end no larger than 17⁄8 inches (4.8 cm) outside diameter. The dehooking end that secures the fishhook must be blunt with all edges rounded. The dehooker must be of a size ap propriate to secure the range of hook sizes and styles used on the vessel. (b) Extended reach handle. The handle must be a minimum length equal to the freeboard of the vessel or 6 ft (1.8 m), whichever is greater. The extended reach handle may break down into sections for storage, but it is not required. 4. Long-handled device to pull an ‘‘inverted V’’. One long-handled device to pull an ‘‘in verted V’’ is required on board. This tool is used to pull an ‘‘inverted V’’ in the fishing line when implementing the ‘‘inverted V’’ dehooking technique, as described in the 2019 version of the document titled ‘‘Careful Re lease Protocols for Sea Turtle Release with Minimal Injury,’’ for dehooking and dis entangling sea turtles. A long-handled J style dehooker as described in paragraph A.3. of this appendix may be used to comply with this requirement. The minimum design standards are as follows: (a) Hook end. This device, such as a stand ard boat hook or gaff must be constructed of stainless steel or aluminum; if a long-han dled J-style dehooker is used to comply with this requirement, it must be constructed of 316L or 304L stainless steel. The semicircular or ‘‘J’’ shaped hook end must be securely at tached to the handle to allow the hook end to engage and pull an ‘‘inverted V’’ in the fishing line. A gaff or any other tool with a sharp point is to be used only for holding fishing lines and must never contact the sea turtle. (b) Extended reach handle. The handle must have a minimum length equal to the freeboard of the vessel or must be at least 6 ft (1.8 m) in length, whichever is greater. The extended reach handle may break down into sections for storage, but it is not required. The handle must be sturdy and strong enough to facilitate the secure attachment of the hook end. 5. Net or hoist. One approved net or hoist is required on board. These devices are to be used to facilitate safe handling of sea turtles by allowing them to be brought on board for fishing gear removal, without causing fur ther injury to the animal. Sea turtles must not be brought on board without the use of a net or hoist. There must be no sharp edges or burrs on the hoop or frame, or where the hoop or frame attaches to the handle. There is no requirement for the hoop or frame to be circular as long as it meets the applicable minimum specifications. In this appendix, bar measure means the non-stretched dis tance between a side knot and a bottom knot of a net mesh; also known as the square mesh measurement. The types and minimum design standards for approved nets and hoists are as follows: (a) Dip net—(i) Size of the net. The dip net must have a sturdy net hoop or frame of at least 31 inches (78.7 cm) inside diameter and a bag depth of at least 38 inches (96.5 cm) to accommodate sea turtles up to 3 ft (0.9 m) in carapace (shell) length. The bag mesh size must not exceed 3 inches (7.6 cm), bar meas ure. The net hoop or frame must be made of a rigid material strong enough to facilitate the sturdy attachment of the net. (ii) Extended reach handle. The dip net hoop or frame must be securely fastened to an ex tended reach handle or pole with a minimum length equal to or greater than 150 percent of the freeboard, or at least 6 ft (1.8 m) in length, whichever is greater. The handle and net must be able to support a minimum of 100 lb (45.4 kg) without breaking or signifi cant bending or distortion. The extended reach handle may break down into sections for storage, but it is not required. (b) Collapsible hoop net—(i) Size of the net. The collapsible hoop net must have a sturdy net hoop of at least 31 inches (78.7 cm) inside diameter and a bag depth of at least 38 inches (96.5 cm) to accommodate sea turtles up to 3 ft (0.9 m) in carapace (shell) length. The bag mesh size must not exceed 3 inches (7.6 cm), bar measure. The net hoop must be strong enough to facilitate the sturdy at tachment of the net. (ii) Extended reach handle. The collapsible hoop net must be securely fastened with rope(s) or other line(s) connected to the hoop with a minimum length equal to or greater than 150 percent of the freeboard, or at least 6 ft (1.8 m) in length, whichever is greater. The rope(s) and net must be able to support a minimum of 100 lb (45.4 kg) without break ing or significant distortion. (c) Small hoist—(i) Size of the hoist. The sea turtle hoist must have a sturdy net hoop or frame of at least 31 inches (78.7 cm) inside di ameter to accommodate sea turtles up to 3 ft (0.9 m) in carapace (shell) length. The net mesh size must not exceed 3 inches (7.6 cm), 492 50 CFR Ch. VI (10–1–22 Edition) Pt. 622, App. F bar measure. If polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, pipe is used to construct the hoist, the pipe fittings must be glued together and a min imum strength of Schedule 40 pipe must be used. The hoist hoop or frame must be made of a rigid material strong enough to facili tate the sturdy attachment of the net. (ii) Extended reach handle. The sea turtle hoist must be securely fastened with ropes or other lines connected to the hoop or frame with a minimum length equal to or greater than 150 percent of the freeboard, or at least 6 ft (1.8 m) in length, whichever is greater. The ropes and hoist hoop or frame must be able to support a minimum of 100 lb (45.4 kg) without breaking or significant distortion. 6. Cushion or support device. A standard automobile tire free of exposed steel belts, a boat cushion, or any other comparable cush ioned and elevated surface, is required for supporting a sea turtle in an upright orienta tion while the sea turtle is on board. The cushion or support device must be appro priately sized to fully support a range of sea turtle sizes. Any life-saving device that would be used to support a sea turtle on board must be dedicated for that purpose and in addition to all minimum human safety at sea requirements. 7. Short-handled dehooker for internal hooks. One short-handled dehooker for removing in ternal hooks is required on board. This dehooker is designed to remove internal hooks from sea turtles brought on board. This dehooker can also be used on external hooks. The minimum design standards are as follows: (a) General. The dehooker must allow the hook to be secured and the hook point shielded without re-engaging during the re moval process. It may not have any unpro tected terminal points, including blunt ones, as this could cause injury to the esophagus during hook removal. A sliding plastic bite block must be permanently installed around the shaft to protect the beak and facilitate hook removal in case a sea turtle bites down on the dehooker. The dehooker must be of a size appropriate to secure the range of hook sizes and styles used on the vessel. (b) Specifications. The dehooker must be constructed of 316L or 304L stainless steel. The shaft must be 3⁄16 inch (4.8-mm) to 5⁄16 inch (7.9-mm) in diameter. The shaft must be 16 to 24 inches (40.6 cm to 60.7 cm) long, with approximately a 4 to 6-inch (10.2 to 15.2-cm) long tube T-handle, wire loop handle, or similar. The bite block must be constructed of a 3⁄4 to 1-inch (1.9 to 2.5-cm) inside diame ter high impact rated, rigid plastic cylinder (e.g., Schedule 80 PVC) that is 4 to 6 inches (10.2 to 15.2 cm) long to allow for 5 inches (12.7 cm) of slide along the shaft. The dehooking end must be no larger than 17⁄8 inches (4.8 cm) outside diameter. 8. Short-handled dehooker for external hooks. One short-handled dehooker for external hooks is required on board. This dehooker is designed to remove external hooks from sea turtles brought on board. The short-handled dehooker for internal hooks required to com ply with paragraph A.7. of this appendix may be used to comply with this requirement. The minimum design standards are as fol lows: (a) Fixed handle dehooker—(i) General. The dehooking end that secures the fishhook must be blunt and all edges rounded. The dehooker must be of a size appropriate to se cure the range of hook sizes and styles used on the vessel. (ii) Specifications. The dehooker must be constructed of 316L or 304L stainless steel. The shaft must be 3⁄16 inch (4.8-mm) to 5⁄16 inch (7.9-mm) in diameter. The shaft must be 16 to 24 inches (40.6 to 60.7 cm) long with ap proximately a 4 to 6-inch (10.2 to 15.2-cm) long tube T-handle, wire loop handle, or similar. (b) Squeeze handle dehooker—(i) General. The dehooking end that secures the fishhook must be blunt and all edges rounded. The dehooker must be able to secure the range of hook sizes and styles used on the vessel. This dehooker secures a fishhook for removal by squeezing the handles together using one hand to grab and pull the hook into notches at the top of the shaft of the dehooker. (ii) Specifications. The dehooker must be constructed of 316L or 304L stainless steel. The overall length must be a minimum of 11 inches (27.9 cm) long. 9. Long-nose or needle-nose pliers. One pair of long-nose or needle-nose pliers is required on board. Required long-nose or needle-nose pliers can be used to remove hooks from the sea turtle’s flesh or for removing hooks from the front of the mouth. They can also hold PVC splice couplings in place, when used as mouth gags. The minimum design standards are as follows: The long-nose or needle-nose pliers must be a minimum of 11 inches (27.9 cm) in length. It is recommended that the pliers be constructed of stainless steel or other corrosion resistant metal material. 10. Bolt cutters. One pair of bolt cutters is required on board. Required bolt cutters may be used to cut off the eye or barb of a hook to facilitate the hook removal without caus ing further injury to the sea turtle. They should also be used to cut off as much of the hook as possible, when the remainder of the hook cannot be removed. The minimum de sign standards are as follows: The bolt cut ters must be a minimum of 14 inches (35.6 cm) in total length, with blades that are a minimum of 4 inches (10.2 cm) long and 21⁄4 inches (5.7 cm) wide, when closed. Required bolt cutters must be able to cut hard metals, such as stainless or carbon steel hooks, up to 1⁄4-inch (6.4-mm) wire diameter, and they must be capable of cutting through the hooks used on the vessel. 493 Fishery Conservation and Management Pt. 622, App. F 11. Monofilament line cutters. One pair of monofilament line cutters is required on board. Required monofilament line cutters must be used to remove fishing line entan gling a sea turtle, or to cut fishing line as close to the eye of the hook as possible if the hook is swallowed or if the hook cannot be removed. The minimum design standards are as follows: The monofilament line cutters must be a minimum of 6 inches (15.2 cm) in length. The blades must be a minimum of 1 inch (2.5 cm) in length and 5⁄8 inches (1.6 cm) wide, when closed. 12. Mouth openers or mouth gags. Required mouth openers and mouth gags are used to open sea turtle mouths, and to keep them open when removing internal hooks from sea turtles brought on board. They must allow access to the hook or line without causing further injury to the sea turtle. Design standards are included in the item descrip tions. At least two of the seven different types of mouth openers or mouth gags de scribed in paragraphs A.12.(a) through (g) of this appendix are required. (a) A block of hard wood. A block of hard wood of a type that does not splinter (e.g., maple) with rounded and smoothed edges, or a wooden-handled brush with the bristles re moved. The dimensions must be a minimum of 10 inches (25.4 cm) by 3⁄4 inch (1.9 cm) by 3⁄4 inch (1.9 cm). (b) A set of three canine mouth gags. A set of canine mouth gags must include one of each of the following sizes: small—5 inches (12.7 cm), medium—6 inches (15.2 cm), and large— 7 inches (17.8 cm). They must be constructed of stainless steel. (c) A set of two sturdy dog chew bones. Re quired canine chews must be constructed of durable nylon or thermoplastic polymer, and strong enough to withstand biting without splintering. To accommodate a variety of sea turtle beak sizes, a set must include one large (51⁄2 to 8 inches (14 cm to 20.3 cm) in length), and one small (31⁄2 to 41⁄2 inches (8.9 cm to 11.4 cm) in length) canine chew bones. (d) A set of two rope loops covered with pro tective tubing. A required set consists of two 3-ft (0.9-m) lengths of poly braid rope (3⁄8-inch (9.5-mm) diameter suggested), each covered with an 8-inch (20.3-cm) long section of 1⁄2 inch (1.3-cm) to 3⁄4-inch (1.9-cm) diameter light duty garden hose or similar flexible tubing, and each rope tied into a loop. (e) A hank of rope. A length of soft braided or twisted nylon rope a minimum of 3⁄16-inch (4.8-mm) diameter must be folded to create a hank, or looped bundle, of rope. The rope must create a hank of 2 to 4 inches (5.1 cm to 10.2 cm) in thickness. (f) A set of four PVC splice couplings. A re quired set must consist of the following Schedule 40 PVC splice coupling sizes: 1 inch (2.5 cm), 11⁄4 inch (3.2 cm), 11⁄2 inch (3.8 cm), and 2 inches (5.1 cm). PVC splice couplings are held in a sea turtle’s mouth with the nee dle-nose pliers. (g) A large avian oral speculum. The avian oral speculum must be 9 inches (22.9 cm) long, and constructed of 3⁄16-inch (4.8-mm) wire diameter 304 stainless steel. The wire must be covered with 8 inches (20.3 cm) of clear vinyl tubing (5⁄16-inch (7.9-mm) outside diameter, 3⁄16-inch (4.8-mm) inside diameter), friction tape, or similar to pad the surface. B. Sea turtle handling requirements. Any sea turtle incidentally captured during fishing operations must be handled, and release gear must be used, in accordance with the NMFS careful handling, resuscitation, and release protocols as specified in this appendix, in the 2019 version of the NMFS document titled, ‘‘Careful Release Protocols for Sea Turtle Release with Minimal Injury’’, or on the NMFS sea turtle handling and release guide lines placard. 1. Sea turtles brought on board. When prac ticable, both active and inactive (comatose) sea turtles must be brought on board the ves sel without causing further injury to the ani mal, using a net or hoist as specified in para graph A.5. of this appendix. Release gear specified in paragraphs A.6. through A.12. of this appendix must be used to remove fishing gear from sea turtles. All sea turtles up to 3 ft (0.9 m) carapace (shell) length must be brought on board to remove fishing gear if sea conditions allow. (a) Place a sea turtle upright on its bottom shell on a cushion or support device, as spec ified in paragraph A.6. of this appendix, to immobilize it and facilitate gear removal. Then, determine if the fishing gear can be re moved without causing further injury. All externally embedded hooks should be re moved, unless hook removal would result in further injury to the sea turtle. No attempt to remove a hook should be made if it has been swallowed and the insertion point of the hook is not clearly visible, or if it is de termined that removal would result in fur ther injury to the sea turtle. (b) If a hook cannot be removed, remove as much line as possible from the sea turtle and the hook using monofilament cutters as specified in paragraph A.11. of this appendix, and as much of the hook as possible should be removed before releasing the sea turtle, using bolt cutters as specified in paragraph A.10. of this appendix. (c) If a hook can be removed, an effective technique may be to cut off the barb or the eye of the hook using bolt cutters, and then to slide the hook out. When the hook is visi ble in the mouth, a mouth opener or mouth gag, as specified in paragraph A.12. of this appendix, may facilitate opening the sea tur tle’s mouth and keeping the mouth open. Short-handled dehookers for internal hooks, or long-nose or needle-nose pliers, as speci fied in paragraphs A.7. and A.8. of this appen dix, respectively, should be used to remove 494 50 CFR Ch. VI (10–1–22 Edition) Pt. 622, App. F visible hooks from the mouth that have not been swallowed on boated sea turtles, as ap propriate. (d) If a sea turtle appears comatose or in active, follow the NMFS resuscitation proto cols to attempt revival before its release. As much gear as possible must be removed from the sea turtle without causing further injury prior to its release. (e) Sea turtle resuscitation. Resuscitation must be attempted on any sea turtle that is comatose or appears inactive by the fol lowing methods: (i) Place the sea turtle upright on its bot tom shell and elevate its hindquarters at least 6 inches (15.2 cm) to drain any water from the sea turtle for a period of at least 4 hours and up to 24 hours. The amount of the elevation depends on the size of the sea tur tle; greater elevations are needed for larger sea turtles. (ii) Periodically rock the sea turtle gently from left to right by holding the outer edge of the shell (carapace) and lift one side about 3 inches (7.6 cm), and then alternate to the other side. (iii) The sea turtle being resuscitated must be shaded and kept damp or moist. Do not put the sea turtle into a container holding water. A water-soaked towel placed over the head, shell, and flippers is the most effective method to keep a sea turtle moist. (iv) Gently touch the corner of the eye and pinch the tail (reflex test) periodically to see if there is a response indicating the sea tur tle may be recovering. (f) Sea turtle release. A sea turtle that is ac tively moving or determined to be dead as described in paragraph B.1.(g) of this appen dix must be released. Release the sea turtle when fishing gear is not in use to avoid re capturing the sea turtle. Place the engine gear in neutral position, and then lower the sea turtle into the water from a low part on the vessel, in an area where the sea turtle is unlikely to be recaptured or injured by ves sels. (g) A sea turtle is determined to be dead if the muscles are stiff (rigor mortis) and/or the flesh has begun to rot; otherwise the sea tur tle is determined to be comatose or inactive, and resuscitation attempts are necessary as specified in paragraph B.1.(e). (h) A sea turtle that fails to respond to the reflex test or fails to move within 4 hours (up to 24 hours if possible) must be returned to the water in the same manner as that for an actively moving sea turtle. 2. Sea turtles that cannot be brought on board. If a sea turtle is too large, or is hooked or entangled in a manner that pre vents bringing the sea turtle on board safely and without causing further injury, release gear specified in paragraph A. of this appen dix must be used to remove the maximum amount of fishing gear from the sea turtle, or to remove as much line as possible from the sea turtle or from a hook that cannot be removed prior to releasing the sea turtle. (a) A non-boated sea turtle should be brought close to the boat. Then, determine whether the hook can be removed without causing further injury to the sea turtle. All externally embedded hooks should be re moved, unless hook removal would result in further injury to the sea turtle. No attempt should be made to remove a hook if it has been swallowed and the insertion point is not clearly visible, or if it is determined that re moval would result in further injury. (b) If the hook cannot be removed or if the sea turtle is only entangled, remove as much line as possible prior to its release using a long-handled line cutter or monofilament line cutters specified in paragraphs A.1. and A.11. of this appendix. (c) If the hook can be removed, it must be removed using the appropriate dehooker or other hook removal device specified in para graph A. of this appendix. Without causing further injury, as much gear as possible must be removed from the sea turtle prior to its release. 3. Other sea turtle requirements. Any sea tur tle taken incidentally while fishing, regard less of whether the sea turtle is alive or dead, or whether it is brought on board, must not be consumed, sold, landed, offloaded, transshipped, or kept below deck. C. Incorporation by reference. The standards required in paragraphs A. and B. of this ap pendix are incorporated by reference into this appendix with the approval of the Direc tor of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved mate rial is available for inspection at the Na tional Marine Fisheries Service, Southeast Regional Office, 263 13th Ave. South, St. Pe tersburg, FL 33701, phone: 727–824–5301, website: https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/south east/endangered-species-conservation/sea-turtle and-smalltooth-sawfish-release-gear-protocols, and is available from the sources listed below. It is also available for inspection at the National Archives and Records Adminis tration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, email fedreg.legal@nara.gov or go to www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-loca tions.html. 1. U.S. Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, South east Fisheries Science Center, 75 Virginia Beach Drive, Miami, FL 33149. (a) Careful Release Protocols for Sea Tur tle Release with Minimal Injury, NOAA Technical Memorandum NMFS–SEFSC–735, Stokes, L., and Bergmann, C. (Editors), 2019. (b) [Reserved] 2. U.S. Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 495 Fishery Conservation and Management Pt. 622, App. G National Marine Fisheries Service, South east Regional Office, 263 13th Ave. South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. (a) Sea Turtle Handling/Release Guide lines: Quick Reference for Hook and Line Fisheries, English, Spanish, Vietnamese, Re vised April 2019. (b) [Reserved] [84 FR 67238, Dec. 9, 2019] APPENDIX G TO PART 622—COASTAL MIGRATORY PELAGICS ZONE ILLUSTRATIONS