The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is responsible for tracking the status and distribution of introduced aquatic organisms. The purpose of the Nonindigenous Aquatic Species Program (NAS) is to monitor and provide information concerning the status, distribution and potential impacts of non-native aquatic organisms in a timely manner for research, management and education. Information is collected from the public regarding the distribution of nonindigenous aquatic species, primarily fish, in open waters of the United States. This information is vital for early detection and rapid response for the possible eradication of organisms that may be considered invasive in a natural environment such as a lake, river, stream, and pond. These species are not native to the environment in which they are now found. Nonindigenous species can and do have negative impacts on our natives species. Early detection is a major focus of the Bureau. The public can help us with this task by serving as the Âeyes and ears for our Program because the USGS cannot possibly be everywhere, observing and monitoring all open waters for nonindigenous aquatic species.
PL:
Pub.L. 101 - 646 1201-1202
Name of Law: Nonindigenous Aquatic Nuisance Control and Prevention Act of 1990
EO: EO 13112 Name/Subject of EO: National Invasive Species Act of 1996
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.