Section 68B-55.004 - Retrieval of Derelict Traps and Traps Located in Areas Permanently Closed to Trapping(1) During the closed season for the harvest of any species for which traps are allowable gear, and after any authorized trap retrieval period together with any extensions, traps are considered to be derelict and may be retrieved as part of coastal cleanup events conducted by local, state, or federal government entities, nonprofit nongovernmental organizations, fishery participant organizations, or other community or citizens groups. Except as provided in subsection (3), such events shall only be undertaken with prior authorization from the Commission, to assure that such removal is adequately supervised but without the mandatory reporting required in Rule 68B-55.003, F.A.C.(2) During the open season for harvest of any species for which traps are allowable gear, retrieval of derelict traps may occur at any time deemed appropriate by the Commission. Commission employees, local, state, or federal personnel, or members of a fishery participant organization may retrieve derelict traps. Except as provided in subsection (3), retrieval other than by Commission personnel shall only be pursuant to a Commission approved plan. The plan shall include the operational area and time period proposed, authorized personnel, the number of vessels, methods of disposition, and number and qualifications of supervisory personnel. An approved plan shall also include notification of the Commission's Division of Law Enforcement no less than 24 hours prior to commencement of retrieval under this program with final float plan information including contact information, vessel registration numbers, trip times, and number of days.(3) Local, state, or federal government personnel may retrieve traps located in areas that are permanently closed to trapping without prior authorization from the Commission.Fla. Admin. Code Ann. R. 68B-55.004
Rulemaking Authority Art. IV, Sec. 9, Fla. Const. Law Implemented Art. IV, Sec. 9, Fla. Const.
New 7-1-03, Amended 10-15-07.New 7-1-03, Amended 10-15-07.