NMFS Observer Programs' Information That Can Be Gathered Only Through Questions
Revision of a currently approved collection
No
Regular
12/19/2023
Requested
Previously Approved
36 Months From Approved
01/31/2024
12,888
13,935
15,728
18,436
1,050
1,050
This request is for an extension and revision to an existing information collection (OMB Control No. 0648-0593): Observer Programsâ Information That Can Be Gathered Only through Questions.
This collection will be revised as follows. First is the expansion of observers to include an additional fishery. The Southeast region will begin sending observers out on Southeast reef fish fishery trips and thus needs to add this fishery to this collection. Second, NOAA is combining the Southeast observer efforts into one program. The third change is the West Coast Groundfish Observer Program (WCGOP) would like to start collecting the names of crew members within their observer logbooks. The data will be recorded on paper, scanned in, and stored according to vessel name. This information will only be accessed if there is an enforcement issue. The final change is also within the West Coast Groundfish Observer Program. They have introduced a new phone app that captains are using to declare upcoming fishing trips and NMFS is using to let them know if they have been selected for observer coverage. Other observer programs are also working on converting to smart phone applications, but they have not yet been implemented.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) deploys fishery observers on United States (U.S.) fishing vessels and to fish processing plants in order to collect biological and economic data and to monitor industry regulatory compliance. Under an OMB approved information collection observers collect information from fishing vessel captains/crew or fish processing plant managers/staff prior to deployment. This information is used to assess whether the vessel or plan satisfies applicable safety requirements.
US Code:
16 USC 1531-1544
Name of Law: Endangered Species Act of 1973
PL:
Pub.L. 94 - 265 303
Name of Law: Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act
US Code:
16 USC 31
Name of Law: Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972
Number of observed vessels and expected number of observed trips have been updated based on 2023 data. In most programs, it is expected to see a reduction in burden hours as the ability to streamline the collected data improves. On another note, the SEFSC combined their 4 distinct programs into one.
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.
Southeast Reef Fish Program
0648-0593 30-day 88 FR 87753 2023-1219.pdf
Vessel Selection - NWFSC 2024.docx
0648-0593 List of forms.xlsx
Southeast Reef Fish Program