Study on Rockfish Opsins

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Region 7 Marine in Monterey, has issued a regulatory permit to Cornell University for a research study on rockfish opsins. Authorized under Fish and Game Code Section 2081(a), the permit allows for the year-round sampling of nearshore rockfish species using hook and line in the waters of Santa Cruz and San Diego. This authorization specifically includes the potential capture of coho salmon, Chinook salmon, and steelhead trout for educational and genetic research purposes. The project is designated as a forecast and is effective through December 31, 2029. The project is exempt from further environmental review under California Code of Regulations Section 15306, as it is classified as information collection with minimal disturbance to listed species. Administrative oversight is provided by the Department of Fish and Wildlife, with Dylan Inskeep serving as the lead agency contact and Peter Searle of Cornell University acting as the project lead. There are no specified federal acquisition regulations, pricing structures, or formal procurement deliverables associated with this permit, as it functions as a state-level research authorization rather than a standard commercial contract.