Gulf of Mexico – Reef Fish VMS Requirement Delayed Until May 6

NOAA Fisheries has announced an additional 60-day delay in the effective date for the Gulf of Mexico reef fish vessel monitoring system (VMS) requirements. All vessels with Gulf of Mexico reef fish permits are required to have a type approved VMS unit operating onboard by May 6, 2007. This new date replaces the original implementation date of December 7, 2006, and the first delayed implementation date of March 7, 2007. The delay is necessary to resolve an unanticipated technological problem with one of the approved VMS units, and to allow vendors additional time to meet the demand for purchase and installation of VMS units that are currently backlogged.

A VMS reimbursement program is available for the Gulf of Mexico reef fish fishery to reimburse vessel owners and/or operators for the purchase price of the VMS. Available funds are limited, so it is important to apply for reimbursement as soon as possible.

More information can be found on the Southeast Region's Website or contact the VMS Support Center at (888) 219-9228.

NOAA Fisheries Service