NMFS North Pacific Groundfish Observer Program was implemented in early 1990. Observers in this Program collect and disseminate catch, bycatch, and biological data necessary to support in- season monitoring and stock assessment. Alaska Fisheries Science Center in Seattle, Washington, provides the operational oversight of the program, certification training, definition of observer sampling duties and methods, debriefing of observers, and management of the data. Owners of vessels, shoreside processors, or stationary floating processors required to carry observers must arrange for observer services from an observer provider.
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.