As required in the reasonable and prudent measures in the Endangered Specis act, Section 7 biological opinion on the effect of the BSAI and GOA pollock, Atka mackerel, and Pacific cod fisheries on the endangeed Steller sea lions, NMFS must implement changes to information collected fishery participants. Registered participants in these three fishers in the exclusive economic zone off Alaska must install vessel monitoring system (VMS) units on their vessels and operate the VMS while directed fishing for each of the species. Participants may apply for reimbursement of the cost of the VMS units.
On behalf of this Federal agency, I certify that the collection of information encompassed by this request complies with 5 CFR 1320.9 and the related provisions of 5 CFR 1320.8(b)(3).
The following is a summary of the topics, regarding the proposed collection of information, that the certification covers:
(i) Why the information is being collected;
(ii) Use of information;
(iii) Burden estimate;
(iv) Nature of response (voluntary, required for a benefit, or mandatory);
(v) Nature and extent of confidentiality; and
(vi) Need to display currently valid OMB control number;
If you are unable to certify compliance with any of these provisions, identify the item by leaving the box unchecked and explain the reason in the Supporting Statement.