Beginning April 1st of this year, NOAA will be placing observers on commercial fishing vessels that target Ridgeback Prawns. Also, beginning May 1st. NOAA observers will be placed on commercial fishing vessels that target Sea Cucumbers.
What this means: Commercial fishing vessels that target species identified by NOAA, that require observers be on board, MUST have a current Coast Guard Commercial Fishing Vessel Safety Decal or the vessel will not be allowed to commercially fish. This requirement is for ALL commercial fishing vessels that target the species NOAA requires observes be deployed, regardless of where that vessel operates.
Reminder: Safety decals are REQUIRED on ALL commercial fishing vessels that operate beyond three nautical miles.
Peter Desillier
U.S. Coast Guard
Commercial Fishing Vessel Safety Examiner Santa Barbara, CA.
Tel: (805) 962-7430 ext. 270
Cell:(805) 979-6775
Fax: (805) 962-7968