National Marine Fisheries Service
(NMFS) established vessel speed restrictions to reduce the threat
of collisions with highly endangered North Atlantic right whales.
The restrictions apply at specific times and in specific locations
along the U.S. eastern seaboard. However, NMFS is also providing an
exception to the restrictions in poor weather or sea conditions.
Ships' captains are required to make an entry into the ship's
Official Logbook when an exception is necessary. The logbook entry
is expected to take less than five minutes; an estimated total of
254 hours for the entire United States (U.S.) east coast shipping
industry, annually. A 3-year extension is being requested, as Final
Rule 0648BB20, removing the sunset for this provision, has
published.
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.