Vessel owners who wish to shuck their
surf clam/ocean quahog catch while at sea must apply for a permit
to do so. NMFS requirements a permit so that it can identify
vessels seekings to do so and to place a NMFS-approved observer
aboard those vessels. An observer is necessary because the shucking
of catch at sea makes it difficult to track the catch against
harvest quotas.
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.