Year-round reporting of sea turtle incidental take is necessary to (1) monitor the level of incidental take in the state- monitored pound net fishery, (2) ensure that the level of take does not exceed the Incidental Take Statement issued in conjunction with the Biological Opinion, and (3) verify that the seasonal pound net leader restrictions are adequate to protect sea turtles. The respondents are Virginia pound net fishermen.
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.