Federal regulations at 50 CFR 229.34 limit the number of nets that can be used in certain fisheries in the mid-Atlantic that appear to be most closely linked with accidental catch of harbor porpoises. Fishermen in these fisheries must obtain and attach numbered tags for their nets. Because the number of tags per vessel is capped, the tagging program helps to limit the number of nets in use and helps National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) identify the number in use.
US Code:
16 USC 31
Name of Law: Marine Mammal Protection Act
NMFS conducted a general canvass of gillnet vessels that operate in the area affected by the gear marking requirements implemented under the HPTRP. The information ascertained by NMFS revealed a significant increase in the number of respondents. The number of respondents approximately doubled from previous estimates. The increase in respondents is likely due to new or emerging gillnet fisheries that were not previously activated at the time of earlier estimates.
In addition, the cost of the tags increased from $0.50 to $1.20 over the past three years.
$0
No
No
Uncollected
Uncollected
Uncollected
Uncollected
David Gouveia 9782819280
No
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.
0357 ss ren 111607.pdf
Gear-Marking Requirements for the Harbor Porpoise Take Reduction Plan