Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act Reauthorized

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The Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Reauthorization Act of 2006, Public Law 109-479 (MSRA), provides NOAA additional science and management authorities related to deep-sea coral communities. The MSRA directs the Secretary of Commerce, in consultation with appropriate Regional Fishery Management Councils, and in coordination with other Federal agencies and educational institutions, to establish a Deep-Sea Coral Research and Technology Program. MSRA also authorizes Councils to designate zones to protect Deep-Sea corals from damage caused by fishing gear under FMP discretionary provisions.

News

NMFS released the final 2010 NOAA Strategic Plan for Deep-Sea Coral and Sponge Ecosystems: Research, Management, and International Cooperation. Click here to read this plan.

Rules and Notices

Related Documents

First Report to Congress on the Implementation of the Deep-Sea Coral Research and Technology Plan
State of Deep Coral Ecosystems of the United States: 2007
Report to Congress on the Implementation of the Deep Sea Coral Research and Technology Program 2008-2009

Related Links

Magnuson-Stevens Reauthorization Act Provisions:

Section 303 (b): Fishery Management Plan (FMP) Discretionary Provisions
Section 408: Deep-Sea Coral Research and Technology Program

Additional Related Legislation

Several other mandates may provide additional authorities for NOAA to take action to conserve Deep-Sea corals:

• National Marine Sanctuaries Act (16 U.S.C. 1431 et seq.)
• Endangered Species Act (16 USC 1531 et seq.).
• Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (16 USC 661-666e).
• Deep-Seabed Hard Mineral Resources Act (30 USC 1404 et. seq.).
• American Antiquities Act (16 USC 431-433).