NMFS manages the commercial groundfish
harvest off Alaska using an annual total allowable catch for each
species based on "round" weight, or the weight of the fish prior to
processing. However, much of the fish harvested off Alaska is
harvested by catcher/ processors that process the catch at-sea.
NMFS estimates the total weight of fish harvested by those trawl
gear catcher/ processors by requiring the vessel to weigh all or
part of their catch on a motion-compensated scale. This collection
describes the steps involved and the procedure for evaluating
scales prior to NMFS approval for use, inspecting and testing
approved scales
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.