More tuna for fishermen: NOAA boosts October-November bluefin catch limit

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.

2026-20637, Fisheries of the Exclusive Economic Zone Off Alaska; Pacific Cod by Vessels Using Pot Gear in the Central Regulatory Area of the Gulf of Alaska

Starting October 7, 2026, fishing for Pacific cod with pot gear in the Central Gulf of Alaska is temporarily closed to keep the catch within safe limits. This affects fishermen using pot gear, helping protect fish stocks and making sure the 2026 catch limit isn’t exceeded. The closure lasts until December 31, 2026, so fishers need to plan accordingly to avoid penalties.

Previous: 2026-20641, Air Plan Approval; Kentucky; Louisville Area Limited Maintenance Plan for the 1997 8-Hour Ozone NAAQS

The EPA is giving a thumbs-up to Kentucky’s plan to keep the air clean in the Louisville area by maintaining safe ozone levels through 2044. This plan covers Bullitt, Jefferson, and Oldham counties and makes sure pollution limits stay federally enforceable. Starting November 9, 2026, local air quality rules will keep protecting your air without extra costs or big changes.

Next: 2026-20666, Airworthiness Directives; Engine Alliance Engines

If you fly planes with Engine Alliance GP7270, GP7272, or GP7277 engines, listen up! The FAA found a risky part in the high-pressure turbine that could cause serious trouble during takeoff. Starting October 23, 2026, airlines must swap out this part to keep flights safe—so get ready to replace it soon and avoid any costly delays or dangers.