0112-08-ss-b

Supporting Statement for Paperwork Reduction Act Submissions

Form MMS-131, Performance Measures Data

OMB Control Number 1010-0112

Expiration Date: 31 January 2008

B. Collection of Information Employing Statistical Methods

The agency should be prepared to justify its decision not to use statistical methods in any case where such methods might reduce burden or improve accuracy of results. When statistical methods are employed, the following documentation should be included in the Supporting Statement to the extent that it applies to the methods proposed.

1. Describe (including a numerical estimate) the potential respondent universe and any sampling or other respondent selection method to be used. Data on the number of entities (e.g., establishments, State and local government units, households, or persons) in the universe covered by the collection and in the corresponding sample are to be provided in tabular form for the universe as a whole and for each of the strata in the proposed sample. Indicate expected response rates for the collection as a whole. If the collection had been conducted previously, include the actual response rate achieved during the last collection.

We estimate there are approximately 130 oil and gas or sulphur lessees/operators (potential respondents). This information collection is an ongoing voluntary effort. Currently 27 percent of the potential respondents, representing over 70 percent of hydrocarbon production, provided the information for the previous 3 years of this data collection effort. We are not using sampling in the collection of these data. We will be requesting the information from all potential respondents. Respondents can receive benefits by providing the information requested on Form MMS-131 as discussed in Item A.2 of the Supporting Statement. It would be unfair to limit the opportunity to a random sampling of companies.

2. Describe the procedures for the collection of information including:

(a) Statistical methodology for stratification and sample selection.

Form MMS-131 is issued to all of the lessees holding OCS leases. This is a standard electronic mailing list through which we issue communications to our constituents. It should be noted that although we are aggregating the information, we are doing so based on the exact respondent base, not on the potential respondent pool. It should also be noted that we will not be extrapolating the information and projecting to the entire universe. Each category of information will clearly state the number of respondents and what percent of the total OCS hydrocarbon production or operation it represents. We are not using statistical methodology for stratification and sample selection.

(b) Estimation procedure.

We have estimated the number of expected responses based on the average response rate from the previous 3 years of data collection and previous comments from and discussions with lessees.

(c) Degree of accuracy needed for the purpose described in the justification.

Currently, 27 percent of the potential respondents, representing over 70 percent of hydrocarbon production, provided the information for the previous 3 years of this data collection effort. We expect that number to increase to 30 percent over the next extension period.

(d) Unusual problems requiring specialized sampling procedures.

There are no unusual problems requiring specialized sampling procedures.

(e) Any use of periodic (less frequent than annual) data collection cycles to reduce burden.

Collecting the information on a less frequent basis probably would not reduce the burden. In fact, it is more likely to increase the reporting burden. As stated in Item A.6, much of industry’s collection of information for internal use is on an annual basis. We have worked closely with industry on the development of the information collected and the process.

3. Describe methods to maximize response rates and to deal with issues of non-response. The accuracy and reliability of information collected must be shown to be adequate for intended uses. For collections based on sampling, a special justification must be provided for any collection that will not yield “reliable” data that can be generalized to the universe studied.

We will issue the data call to all potential respondents. The data collection itself and the process were a collaborative effort with industry and its trade organizations. In addition, there can be benefits to the respondents in the form of reduced regulatory burdens. We expect about a 30 percent response rate over the next 3-year approval period.

4. Describe any tests of procedures or methods to be undertaken. Testing is encouraged as an effective means of refining collections of information to minimize burden and improve utility. Tests must be approved if they call for answers to identical questions from 10 or more respondents. A proposed test or set of tests may be submitted for approval separately or in combination with the main collection of information.

This is not applicable as the information collected on Form MMS-131 is an ongoing process.

5. Provide the name and telephone number of individuals consulted on statistical aspects of the design and the name of the agency unit, contractor(s), grantee(s), or other person(s) who will actually collect and/or analyze the information for the agency.

Consultation with “statistical experts” on the design of this form is not applicable as Form MMS-131 has been in use since 1998. The agency contact is:

Jarvis Abbott, Safety and Enforcement Branch

Office of Offshore Regulatory Programs

Minerals Management Service

703-787-1866

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