NOAA seeks nominees for halibut commission

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP) -- The National Marine Fisheries Service is again seeking nominees for two seats on the International Pacific Halibut Commission.

The agency, part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, says commissioners represent U.S. interests in the Pacific halibut fishery that's managed jointly with Canada.

Commissioners also work to develop halibut stocks to levels that permit "optimum yield."

The president appoints commissioners.

NOAA Fisheries last spring for the first time publicly solicited nominations. An agency release says factors including the time lapse and considerations of balanced representation led to a decision to again call for nominations.

The agency will take nominations for 30 days. A public comment period of 30 days will follow.

Commissioners are appointed for terms up to two years but may be reappointed.