This request is to renew an inspection
program for modified pound net leaders in the Virginia waters of
the mainstem Chesapeake Bay. Pound net fishermen must call NMFS to
arrange for a meeting. Then, fishermen must meet NMFS and allow for
the inspection of his or her gear to ensure the modified leader
meets the definition of a modified pound net leader, as described
in the regulations. This inspection program is necessary to provide
fishermen with the insurance that their leaders meet the regulatory
definition of a modified pound net leader before setting their
gear, provide managers with the knowledge that the offshore leaders
in a portion of the Virginia Chesapeake Bay are configured in a
turtle-safe manner, and aid in enforcement efforts. The respondents
will be Virginia pound net fishermen.
PL:
Pub.L. 100 - 107 2 Name of Law: Endangered Species Act of 1973,
as amended, 1988
The number of respondents has
decreased from 21 to 19, the total annual responses have increased
from 106 to 145 and the total annual hours requested has increased
from 51 to 70. The reasons from these changes are that updated
information is available on the number of pound net fishermen
(respondents) fishing in the regulated area and time period. The
updated numbers are more reflective of the actual fishing activity
as they are averages from the most recent 5 years of available
data. Further, the increase in responses and requested hours is
reflective of the number of pound nets set in the regulated area
and time period. The estimated number of pound nets increased
largely based on a 2010 NMFS survey of pound net gear in the lower
Bay, which recorded more pound nets set in the area and represents
an improvement on the previously available information. There were
minor related changes to costs, a $4.00 increase
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.