Marine Mammal Authorization Program (MMAP) for Commercial Fishermen
The MMAP provides an annual exemption from the general taking prohibitions of the Marine Mammal Protection Act for incidental (non-intentional) take by commercial fishermen. Information on marine mammal interactions with commercial fishermen collected under this program, as well as other sources, helps scientists determine whether the incidental serious injury and mortality of marine mammals in commercial fishing operations have been reduced to insignificant levels.
Who is affected?
MMAP registration is required for fishermen participating in Category I and II fisheries. For a complete list of Category I and II fisheries, please see the most recent List of Fisheries at http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/pr/interactions/lof/. MMAP registration is not required for fishermen participating in Category III fisheries; however, all fishermen in Category I, II and III fisheries are required to report any marine mammals incidentally taken during their fishing operations (see Marine Mammal Injury/Mortality Reporting Form below).
Why do I have to register?
The MMAP is a requirement of the Marine Mammal Protection Act and its implementing regulations. Commercial fishermen in Category I and Category II fisheries must be registered in the MMAP. If they are not registered and they incidentally “take” a marine mammal while fishing, they can be prosecuted for that take under the federal Marine Mammal Protection Act.
How do I register?
In the Southeast Region, NMFS has integrated the annual MMAP registration process with existing state and Federal fishery license, registration, or permit systems. Participants in fisheries for which a Federal permit is required, as well as fisheries permitted by the states of North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas are automatically registered under the MMAP and are not required to submit registration or renewal materials or pay the $25 registration fee. However, you are responsible for obtaining your Authorization Certificate each year, on or before January 1. You may obtain your annual Authorization Certificate by:
- Clicking here and printing the certificate; or
- Contacting the NMFS Southeast Regional Office at 727-824-5312 to request a certificate.
If you are unable to print the certificate, or have any other problems or questions, please contact the NMFS Southeast Regional Office.
What are the requirements?
Marine Mammal Authorization Certificate
Category I and II fishermen are required to print this certificate and keep it on board the vessel. This certificate, in combination with a valid state or federal fishing permit, will serve as your authorization under the MMPA to incidentally take marine mammals during commercial fishing operations. In the case of non-vessel fisheries, the certificate must be in the possession of the person in charge of the operation.
Marine Mammal Injury/Mortality Reporting Form
Category I, II, and III fishermen are required to report marine mammal injuries and mortalities. Print one or more copies of this form and keep on board in case you incidentally take a marine mammal in the course of your fishing operations. Fill out and mail completed forms to the address at the top of the form. Forms may also be faxed to 301-427-2522. You can also call the NMFS Southeast Regional Office at 727-824-5312 to request a postage-paid reporting form.
What else do I need to know?
Marine Mammal Authorization Program Q&A
This fact sheet provides general information on the MMAP program.
Observer Fact Sheet
As a participant in a Category I or II fishery, you are required to take an observer if requested by NMFS or by a designated contractor providing observer services to NMFS. This fact sheet provides information on this requirement, how NMFS uses observer data, how you will know when you have to carry an observer, your responsibilities when carrying an observer, and the safety requirements for carrying an observer.
If you are unable to print the required forms, please call the NMFS Southeast Regional Office at 727-824-5412 to request hard copies.
