The Comment Form will help North Pacific Groundfish Observer Program (NPGOP) assess observer performance, ensure higher data quality, and provide the vessel/plant operators with a direct line of communication to the program management. Improved communication and outreach is a priority for the NPGOP. It is important to get the fishermenÂs opinions about the program and have a method for them to report their concerns and evaluations of the program. This is a tailored qualitative survey for Vessel/Plant Operators who have had observers on their vessels to provide direct feedback on observer and observer program performance to the National Marine Fisheries Service. This will be collected on a voluntary basis. The Vessel/Plant Operator Comment Form is available to all operators who have had a certified North Pacific Groundfish observer onboard their vessel or plant. Vessel operators or plant operators are the only ones who may complete the survey.
PL:
Pub.L. 94 - 265 403
Name of Law: Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act
US Code:
16 USC 1387
Name of Law: Marine Mammal Protection Act
Vessels/plants may carry several observers or the same observer on several trips throughout the year. Due to extensive outreach, availability of the Comment Form, and ease of completion and return (either via postage paid mail or the internet), we expect 75% of the vessel/plant operators to fill out the Comment Card. It is expected that NPGOP may observe 400 different vessels/plants a year. The average number of times a vessel/plant is observed per year is three, for an average yearly total of 1200 observations. At a 75% return rate, we expect to receive 900 Comment Forms per year. With an average of 30 minutes to complete a Comment Form, the estimated total number of annual hours would be 450.
We will also use a Non-response Follow-up Form. This follow-up will be performed either in person or by phone. We expect to use 300 of these forms per year. With an average of 10 minutes to complete this alternate form, the estimated total number of additional hours would be 50, for an overall total of 500 hours, annually.
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.
NPGOP Non-Response Follow-Up Form
NPGO ss part B 072506.pdf
NPGOP Non-Response Follow-Up Form