This is a pilot survey to evaluate mariners' attitudes and responses to the North Atlantic Right Whale Mandatory Ship Reporting System, hereafter referred to as MSR (http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2001-11-20/pdf/01-28964.pdf). Although the MSR program has been in effect for over 15 years, the United States (U.S.) Government has not assessed the role, if any, the MSR has in reducing ship collisions with right whales. In addition, mariners have not been polled to assess possible difficulties involved in the reporting itself. The goal of the pilot survey is to determine if (a) the reporting procedures required under the MSR are adequately clear to the mariner, (b) the reporting itself is onerous or unwieldy (e.g., it may interfere with other vessel operations), and (c) if and how mariners use the information being sent to them as part of the MSR (e.g., modification of ship operations, distributing information to crew, etc.). The pilot survey will gather information directly from the maritime community to identify ways to improve the MSR program to increase its conservation value while also minimizing impact to ship operations.
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.