Special Pass to Hoard Protected Lobsters for Science?
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 opens a chance for the public to share their thoughts by April 24, 2026. If approved, this could help important research without changing fishing rules for everyone else.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Research Exemption to Lobster Protection Rule
Federally permitted fishing vessels may be exempted from 50 CFR 697.20(c) so fishermen can remove the smallest walking leg from late-stage egg-bearing (ovigerous) female lobsters for genomic sampling, then record carapace length and location and release the female. The EFP application covers up to 8 vessels, about 6 trips (3 days each) totaling ~18 days between 06/01/2026 and 09/30/2027, with up to 240 samples (target ~25 per location).
Harvested Legal Lobsters May Be Sold
Legal lobsters caught during the EFP trips would be landed for sale as normal, while sampled late-stage egg-bearing females would have a small walking leg removed, be measured and geolocated, and then released. This specifies that participating fishermen can continue to sell legally caught lobsters during the project.
Public Comment Window for EFP Application
The public may submit comments on the EFP application by April 24, 2026; comments (including personal identifying information if provided) will become part of the public record and anonymous comments are accepted. This is the opportunity for stakeholders to express support, concerns, or information about the proposed exempted fishing activities.
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