This request is for a revision to a currently approved information collection. The objective of the original data collection effort under OMB Control Number 0648-0783 was to assess how changes in saltwater recreational fishing regulations affect angler effort, angler welfare, fishing mortality, and future stock levels. That data collection effort focused on anglers who fished for Atlantic cod and haddock off the Atlantic coast from Maine to Massachusetts. Under this revised information collection request, the objective remains the same, but a new survey will be added with the focus on anglers who fish for summer flounder and black sea bass in the North Atlantic coastal states of New York and New Jersey. The survey population consists of those anglers who fish in saltwater in the North Atlantic coastal states of New York and New Jersey and who possess a license to fish. A sample of anglers will be drawn from both state fishing license frames. The survey will be conducted using both mail and email to contact anglers and invite them to take the survey online. Anglers not responding to the online survey will receive a paper survey in the mail. Data collected from this survey will improve our ability to understand and predict how changes in management options and regulations may change fishing mortality and the number of trips anglers take for summer flounder and black sea bass. This data will allow fisheries managers to conduct updated and improved analysis of the socio-economic effects of proposed changes in fishing regulations to recreational anglers and to coastal communities.
A new survey added with a similar objective to the previous renewal, with the focus on anglers who fish for summer flounder and black sea bass in the North Atlantic coastal states of New York and New Jersey. The survey population consists of those anglers who fish in saltwater in the North Atlantic coastal states of New York and New Jersey and who possess a license to fish. A sample of anglers will be drawn from both state fishing license frames.
The previous NARFS was removed from this collection as that one-time survey has been completed.
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.
NARFS II
0648-0783 30-day 85 FR 73462 2020-1118.pdf
0648-0783 Supporting Statement A.docx
NARFS II