NOAA approves grouper closure in "the edges"

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration recently finalized a four-month grouper closure to “The Edges” section of the Gulf of Mexico. The final rule was published in the Federal Registry in late June. The goal of the closure is to protect grouper species during spawning aggregations. The area known as “The Edges” in the Gulf of Mexico will be off-limits from January 1 through April 30. All commercial and recreational fishing of fish managed by the Gulf Council will be prohibited in the closed area. For bottom fishermen, that means all grouper and snapper species. Possession will only be allowed when crossing the area if all fishing gear is stowed in accordance with federal regulations. We have the coordinates for the area known as “The Edges” on this story at oysterradio.com.
Northwest corner = 28º 51’N, 85º 16’W
Northeast corner = 28º 51’N, 85º 04’W
Southwest corner = 28º 14’N, 84º 54’W
Southeast corner = 28º 14’N, 84º 42’W