Special Pass Sought to Study Forbidden Lobsters Scientifically
Published Date: 4/9/2026
Notice
Summary
The Gloucester Marine Genomics Institute wants special permission to fish in ways usually not allowed, like keeping certain lobsters that are normally protected. This affects fishing vessels with federal permits and asks the public to share their thoughts by April 24, 2026. If approved, this could help science but might change how some fishing rules work for a little while.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Exemption to Sample Egg-Bearing Lobsters
If you operate a federally permitted fishing vessel and take part in this project, the EFP would exempt you from 50 CFR 697.20(c) and allow removal of the smallest walking leg from late-stage egg-bearing female lobsters for scientific collection. The project would collect up to 240 samples (target 25 per each of 6 locations) during 06/01/2026–09/30/2027, using up to 8 vessels on about 6 trips (3 days per trip, ~30 sets per trip).
Harvested Legal Lobsters Can Be Sold
If your federally permitted vessel participates in the project, legal lobsters caught on project trips would be landed for sale. The project plans approximately 6 trips between 06/01/2026 and 09/30/2027 using up to 8 vessels.
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