0000-NEW-SS - B -alaska Subsistence 8-26-09

Supporting Statement for Paperwork Reduction Act Submissions

Subsistence Study for Alaska

OMB Control Number 1010-NEW

Current Expiration Date: NEW

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.

Statistical methods for sampling are not used because the respondent universe is small (N=128 households) and we will be requesting information from all potential respondents. We expect a 90 percent response rate based upon local interests in subsistence activities. This is a new data collection with no previous response rate to compare. Information aggregates will be based upon the actual response rate.

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

(a) Statistical methodology for stratification and sample selection.

(b) Estimation procedure.

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

(d) Unusual problems requiring specialized sampling procedures.

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

No statistical methodologies are used for sample selection, as the entire population of households will be studied.

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.

All potential respondents will be invited to participate in the study through community presentations explaining the goals of the project, the process, and introducing the research team, also through personal verbal invitations. We will enlist support of local tribal councils and leaders to facilitate this process. Each study includes an introductory statement describing the project’s goals and outcomes, and the interviewees will explain these goals. A small compensation will also be offered to each respondent that is consistent with expectations from the local communities. Anonymity will also be assured for each respondent and a copy of a signed form describing the protection of the respondents will be provided to each person. Response rates will also be maximized by assuring that the study is performed in a season that is most appropriate to the communities. We do not expect more than a 10 percent nonresponse rate due to the small population, face to face interviews, and compensation provided to each respondent.

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.

A test of the study instrument was performed in December 2008 with six individuals. This test allowed us to refine the instrument to meet the needs of the information collection and also make it more applicable to future respondents. The pre-test report is on file with Chris Campbell, COR, MMS Anchorage.

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.

Teri Pederson, University Statistician

Idaho State University

Office of Research

2