INFORMATION BULLETIN                  March 8, 2001     
 Sustainable Fisheries Division        11:15 A.M.               
 907-586-7228                           


    NMFS ANNOUNCES THE MARCH 15, 2001, SEASON OPENING OF THE
   SABLEFISH FIXED GEAR FISHERIES MANAGED UNDER THE INDIVIDUAL
                  FISHING QUOTA (IFQ) PROGRAM

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) announces the March
15, 2001, season opening of the sablefish fixed gear fisheries
managed under the IFQ program.  The season will open at 1200 hrs,
Alaska local time (A.l.t.), March 15, 2001, and will close 1200
hrs, A.l.t., November 15, 2001.  This period is the same as the
IFQ season for Pacific halibut announced by the International
Pacific Halibut Commission (IPHC), according to James W.
Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, NMFS.

This method of season announcement was selected to facilitate
coordination between the sablefish season, chosen by the
Administrator, Alaska Region, and the halibut season, chosen by
the IPHC.

This information bulletin provides notice that a season opening
has occurred.  Do not rely upon it to guide you in complying with
all the requirements of the IFQ program.  To obtain information
concerning the regulatory requirements of the IFQ program contact
the Sustainable Fisheries Division, NMFS, 907-586-7228.