The Fish and Wildlife Service is in the process of standardizing the annual report required under 21.48, and developing a form for more uniform recording of take by aquaculture producers under 21.47. It is anticipated that revisions to the forms will be submitted as non-substantive changes no later than August 31, 2013.
Inventory as of this Action
Requested
Previously Approved
02/29/2016
36 Months From Approved
02/28/2013
360
0
535
3,228
0
4,678
0
0
0
This information collection is associated with regulations implementing the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) (16 U.S.C. 703 et seq.). Under the MBTA, it is unlawful to take, possess, import, export, transport, sell, purchase, barter, or offer for sale, purchase, or barter migratory birds or their parts, nests, or eggs except as authorized by regulation. In 2003, the Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) issued regulations authorizing the take of double-crested cormorants (DCCOs) under certain circumstances. The regulations at 50 CFR 21.47 authorize aquaculture producers in 13 States to take DCCOs when the birds are found committing or about to commit depredations on aquaculture stocks. The regulations at 50 CFR 21.48 authorize the U.S. Department of Agriculture (Wildlife Services), States, and federally recognized tribes in 24 States to take DCCOs to protect public resources (fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitat). Any agency or person exercising the privileges of a double-crested cormorant depredation order must satisfy reporting and/or recordkeeping requirements. The Service will use the this information to evaluate the effectiveness of the orders and their impact on cormorant populations.
We are estimating that we will receive 360 responses annually totaling 3,228 burden hours, which is a decrease of 175 responses and 1,450 hours. Based on our experience, we adjusted the number of responses to reflect a 35-percent decrease in the number of aquaculture producers (from 500 to 325) operating under 50 CFR 21.47. In addition, based on our outreach, we reduced the completion time for reports of management activities from 100 hours to 75 hours.
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.