This information collection is associated with regulations implementing the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) (16 U.S.C. 703 et seq.). Under the MBTA, it is unlawful to take, possess, import, export, transport, sell, purchase, barter, or offer for sale, purchase, or barter migratory birds or their parts, nests, or eggs except as authorized by regulation. In 2003, the Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) issued regulations authorizing the take of double-crested cormorants (DCCOs) under certain circumstances. The regulations at 50 CFR 21.47 authorize aquaculture producers in 13 States to take DCCOs when the birds are found committing or about to commit depredations on aquaculture stocks. The regulations at 50 CFR 21.48 authorize the U.S. Department of Agriculture (Wildlife Services), States, and federally recognized tribes in 24 States to take DCCOs to protect public resources (fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitat). Any agency or person exercising the privileges of a double-crested cormorant depredation order must satisfy reporting and/or recordkeeping requirements. The Service will use the this information to evaluate the effectiveness of the orders and their impact on cormorant populations.
Based on our experience during the last several years and on feedback from our public outreach, we have adjusted our burden estimates for this information collection. Fewer aquaculture producers and agencies than we anticipated are operating under these depredation orders, so we have decreased the estimated number of respondents and responses to 516. We have increased the burden estimates for most of the reporting and recordkeeping requirements.
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.