topobathy SupportingStatement_101510 Part B

SUPPORTING STATEMENT
Topographic and Bathymetric Data Inventory Survey
OMB CONTROL NO. 0648-xxxx
B. COLLECTIONS OF INFORMATION EMPLOYING STATISTICAL METHODS
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 and the corresponding sample are to be provided in tabular form. The tabulation
must also include expected response rates for the collection as a whole. If the collection has
been conducted before, provide the actual response rate achieved.
There are approximately 850 in the respondent universe (700 coastal and watershed counties,
150 state and regional coordination groups). We have not conducted a similar information
collection before; however, our estimated response rate is 95%: the respondents are key
stakeholders, we work directly with these groups and have built relationships with them.
2. Describe the procedures for the collection, including: the statistical methodology for
stratification and sample selection; the estimation procedure; the degree of accuracy
needed for the purpose described in the justification; any unusual problems requiring
specialized sampling procedures; and any use of periodic (less frequent than annual) data
collection cycles to reduce burden.
As this is a census collection, there will be no sampling. Because we want a comprehensive data
set, 100% response is most desirable; however, as no inferential statistics will be employed, low
response is not a limiting factor to the integrity of the data. This is simply an attempt to create an
inventory of topographic and bathymetric data resources. To reduce public burden, a staggered,
3-year time frame for collection will be used (~1/3 of total N per year).
3. Describe the methods used to maximize response rates and to deal with nonresponse.
The accuracy and reliability of the information collected must be shown to be adequate for
the intended uses. For collections based on sampling, a special justification must be
provided if they will not yield “reliable” data that can be generalized to the universe
studied.
To maximize the response rate, an initial phone call will take place to identify appropriate staff.
Once appropriate staff has been identified at each agency/office they have the option to complete
the survey by phone (immediately or at a later date), or via email.
To at least partially address any nonresponse bias, instances in which respondents refuse the
survey will be recorded, along with their agency affiliation, their office within the respective
agency, and geography (state, county, and immediate coastal vs. coastal watershed vicinity).

4. Describe any tests of procedures or methods to be undertaken. Tests are encouraged as
effective means to refine collections, but if ten or more test respondents are involved OMB
must give prior approval.
The survey will be piloted to nine appropriate individuals who have subject matter expertise on
topics represented in the survey. These respondents will represent the range of the population
sugbroups of interest. Appropriate changes will be made as needed.
5. Provide the name and telephone number of individuals consulted on the 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.
Chris Ellis 843-740-1195
Lindy Betzhold 843-740-1165
Rebecca Mataosky 843-740-1152.