Texas Gets Permit to Accidentally Disturb Marine Mammals

2026-14204 — Lake Ontario National Marine Sanctuary; Delay of Effective Date

NOAA is giving everyone more time before the rule that bans grappling or anchoring on Lake Ontario shipwrecks kicks in. Instead of starting in July 2026, this rule is now delayed until September 2028 to let NOAA set up mooring buoys and work with divers and boaters. This means boaters and commercial vessels can keep anchoring safely while NOAA gets everything ready without rushing.

2026-14195 — Rescinding the Definition of “Harm” Under the Endangered Species Act

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration are wiping away the official definition of “harm” under the Endangered Species Act starting September 14, 2026. This change affects anyone involved in protecting endangered plants and animals by shifting how “harm” is understood and enforced. It’s a big move that could change how projects and protections are handled, but no new costs or deadlines are added right now.

2026-05599 — Deep Seabed Mining: Notice of Receipt of Applications for Deep Seabed Mining Exploration Licenses and Announcement of Public Comment Period and Virtual Public Hearings

NOAA got two applications from companies wanting to explore mining deep under the ocean floor. They’re holding virtual public meetings in April and want your thoughts by May 22, 2026. This affects anyone interested in ocean mining and how we protect our seas while exploring new resources.

2026-04256 — Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Spatial Fisheries Management; Amendment 15 to the 2006 Consolidated Atlantic Highly Migratory Species Fishery Management Plan

Starting April 3, 2026, new rules change shark fishing zones and times in the Atlantic to better protect sharks and manage fishing risks. Fishermen using bottom and pelagic longline gear will see updated area boundaries and must pay for electronic monitoring if fishing in certain safer zones. These changes help keep shark populations healthy while supporting responsible fishing.

2026-14522 — Magnuson-Stevens Act Provisions; General Provisions for Domestic Fisheries; Application for Exempted Fishing Permits

Scallop Shack Farms wants special permission to try new fishing methods that don’t follow some usual rules, aiming to make scallop and tilefish trips more efficient. This affects federally permitted fishing vessels and could change how they fish, possibly saving time and fuel. You’ve got until August 4, 2026, to share your thoughts before a final decision is made.

2026-14532 — Research Track Assessment for Longfin Inshore Squid; Public Meeting

NOAA is holding a public meeting from August 3-7, 2026, to review the health of the longfin inshore squid population in the northwest Atlantic. This review helps make sure fishing rules are based on the best science, affecting fishermen, managers, and ocean lovers. The meeting is free to join in person or online, with no immediate cost changes but important info for future fishing decisions.

Previous: 2026-14573 — Food Standards of Identity Modernization; Pasteurized Orange Juice

The FDA is updating the rules for pasteurized orange juice by lowering the minimum sugar content and allowing up to 15% of a new type of citrus juice. This change helps juice makers, especially in Florida, keep up with modern practices without raising costs. The new rules kick in on August 19, 2026, giving producers time to adjust.

Next: 2026-14584 — Safety Zones; Delaware River Dredging, Marcus Hook, PA

The Coast Guard is setting up three temporary safety zones on the Delaware River near Marcus Hook, PA, to keep boats away during important dredging work. These zones will be in effect from July 20 to October 31, 2026, to protect workers, boats, and the environment. If you’re boating in the area, expect some restrictions but no fees—just safety first!