Fishermen Head to Shark ID and Safe Handling Classes

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.

2026-06484 — Takes of Marine Mammals Incidental to Specified Activities; Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to the Port of San Francisco Mission Bay Ferry Landing Project in San Francisco Bay, California

The Port of San Francisco wants permission to do construction for the Mission Bay Ferry Landing, which might accidentally disturb marine mammals in San Francisco Bay. The government is asking for public comments before deciding to allow this, with a chance to renew the permit for one more year if needed. Comments are due by May 4, 2026, so speak up if you care about the sea life or the project’s progress!

2026-06514 — Fisheries of the Exclusive Economic Zone Off Alaska; Pollock in Statistical Area 620 in the Gulf of Alaska

Starting April 1, 2026, fishing for pollock in Statistical Area 620 of the Gulf of Alaska is temporarily closed to keep the catch within safe limits. This affects fishermen targeting pollock, who must stop directed fishing until September 1, 2026, helping protect the fish population and support other fisheries. The closure ensures the 2026 pollock catch limit isn’t exceeded, balancing fishing opportunities and conservation.

2026-06566 — Fisheries of the Exclusive Economic Zone Off Alaska; Reallocation of Pollock in the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands

The government is shifting some pollock fishing quotas from the Aleutian Islands to the Bering Sea because the Aleutian Islands won’t use all their share this year. This change helps fishermen in the Bering Sea catch more pollock without going over limits. It starts April 3, 2026, and runs through the end of the year, making sure the fishery stays balanced and fair.

2026-06460 — South Atlantic Fishery Management Council-Public Meeting

The South Atlantic Fishery Management Council is holding a meeting April 21-23, 2026, to talk about important changes to fishing rules for snapper, grouper, and other fish. Fishermen, businesses, and ocean lovers in the South Atlantic region will hear updates, suggest new rules, and review how fish stocks like black grouper and black sea bass are doing. This meeting could lead to new fishing seasons, permit changes, and better fish management that might affect fishing costs and opportunities.

Previous: 2026-05260 — Proposed Submission of Information Collection for OMB Review; Comment Request; Direct Express Enrollment Form

The Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC) wants to start collecting info to help people sign up for the Direct Express debit card. This new form will make enrollment easier and more organized. If you’re affected, you can share your thoughts by May 18, 2026—no cost or hassle expected!

Next: 2026-05268 — Duke Energy Progress, LLC; Duke Energy Carolinas, LLC; Notice of Application of Transfer of License and Soliciting Comments, Motions To Intervene, and Protests

Duke Energy wants to switch the license for the Yadkin-Pee Dee Hydroelectric Project from Duke Energy Progress to Duke Energy Carolinas. This change affects communities near the Pee Dee River in North Carolina and means Duke Energy Carolinas will take over all responsibilities. People have until April 13, 2026, to share their thoughts or get involved before the transfer is approved.