Free Zoom on West Coast fish maps? Fishery council invites all!

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.

2026-07536, Taking and Importing Marine Mammals; Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to Geophysical Surveys in the Gulf of America

Starting April 20, 2026, NOAA is setting new rules for companies doing geophysical surveys in the Gulf of America to protect marine mammals. These rules let companies get permission to accidentally disturb marine mammals but require them to minimize harm and report what they find. This plan lasts five years and helps balance ocean research with saving sea life.

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.

2026-19452, New England Fishery Management Council; Public Meeting

The New England Fishery Management Council is holding a public meeting on October 7, 2026, to set fishing limits for scallops and several types of flounder for the next few years. This affects fishermen and seafood businesses in New England’s waters, helping keep fish populations healthy while supporting the fishing economy. The meeting will be both in-person and online, making it easy for everyone to join and have their say.

Previous: 2026-19489, Notice of Informal Presentation of Views

HUD is asking for your input before deciding whether to suspend or revoke Scott Wiegand’s installer license. If you have any evidence or statements, send them by October 14, 2026. This affects anyone involved with manufactured home installations and could impact licensing and safety standards.

Next: 2026-19491, Notice of Receipt of Complaint; Solicitation of Comments Relating to the Public Interest

The U.S. International Trade Commission got a complaint from UnaliWear, Inc. about some wearable health devices from big companies like Samsung, Google, and Garmin. They’re asking for rules to stop these products from being sold in the U.S. while the case is reviewed. If you’re involved or interested, now’s the time to share your thoughts—this could affect what devices you see and buy soon!