Vessels fishing for Atlantic tuna and swordfish that use pelagic longline gear are required to install and operate vessel monitoring systems. Automatic position reports are submitted on an hourly basis whenever the vessel is at sea. NMFS proposes to revise the current requirements to add an installation checklist that vessel operators would follow and then submit to NMFS. The checklist provides inforation on the hardware and communications service selected by each vessel. NMFS will use the returned checklists to ensure that position reports are received and to aid NMFS in troubleshooting problmes.
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.
Vessel Monitoring System for Atlantic Highly Migratory Species