Development Of An Aquatic Animal Health Plan For Salmonids In The Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ)      Kevin H. Amos1 and Spencer Garrett2    National Seafood Inspection Laboratory,  National Marine Fisheries Service,  1Olympia, WA; 2Pascagoula, MS         The Department of Commerce, National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), has a directive to encourage and support the development of aquaculture in the exclusive economic zone (EEZ – the offshore waters from 3-200 miles under the jurisdiction of NMFS). One of the obstacles to aquaculture in the EEZ is the absence of rules and policies to manage fish health issues.  The purpose of our project is to develop and pilot test model fish health regulations that will provide for safe and effective interstate and international commerce of salmonids cultured in the EEZ.  The model plan will be developed via input received at workshops held in three regions in the United States (Northwest, Great Lakes, and Northeast).  A steering committee, composed of representatives from relevant Federal agencies (Agriculture, Commerce, Interior, and State) will provide oversight and review work products and draft plans generated by the investigators.