NOAA removes old groundfish closure at Cordell Bank, creates new habitat protection zone

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has updated regulations for the Pacific Coast groundfish fishery off California. The agency is removing an older conservation area known as the Cordell Bank Groundfish Conservation Area (GCA) that was originally set up to protect overfished fish stocks, which have since recovered.

Why it matters: This rule reduces regulatory complexity for fishermen and enforcement officers by consolidating overlapping closure zones into a single map boundary. It reflects that the original reason for closing this specific area—protecting depleted fish populations—is no longer necessary, while acknowledging the need to keep sensitive seafloor ecosystems safe from physical damage by fishing gear.

Who it affects

• Commercial groundfish fishermen using non-trawl gear (e.g., troll gear) who can now fish in newly opened areas.

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This final rule was issued by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration under the Commerce Department; check the full Federal Register document for precise coordinates and technical definitions before planning any fishing trips.

Agency: Commerce Department, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Source: Federal Register — read the official document