National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) established vessel speed restrictions to reduce the threat of collisions with highly endangered North Atlantic right whales. The restrictions apply at specific times and in specific locations along the U.S. eastern seaboard. However, NMFS is also providing an exception to the restrictions in poor weather or sea conditions. Ships' captains are required to make an entry into the ship's Official Logbook when an exception is necessary. The logbook entry is expected to take less than five minutes; an estimated total of 254 hours for the entire United States (U.S.) east coast shipping industry, annually. A 3-year extension is being requested, as Final Rule 0648BB20, removing the sunset for this provision, has published.
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.
0580 SS (BB20) Revision, Extension 121613.doc
Logbook entry when necessary to exceed speed limit