0648-0644 Supporting Statement Part B

SUPPORTING STATEMENT

U.S. Department of Commerce

National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration

Shipboard Observation Form for Floating Marine Debris

OMB Control No. 0648-0644

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 covered by the collection and in the corresponding sample are to be provided in tabular form for the universe as a whole and for each of the strata in the proposed sample. Indicate expected response rates for the collection as a whole. If the collection had been conducted previously, include the actual response rate achieved during the last collection.

This data collection form is used on a completely voluntary basis. There is no requirement to complete it and there will be no respondent selection methods. Respondents will likely be individual recreational sailors. Additionally, though less common, would be participation by members of non-government organizations (NGOs) that are frequently on the ocean. It is estimated that 20 data sheets will be distributed each year with a response rate of approximately 25% (5 responses).

2. Describe the procedures for the collection of information including:

Data collection forms will be distributed on an as needed basis to recreational sailors as well as NGOs that frequently sail our oceans. Distribution will be done through the NOAA Marine Debris Program and be driven by severe marine debris events, or other unusual concentrations of marine debris.

While the estimated number of respondents (i.e., sample size) will be only 5 each year, and there is no way to claim the representativeness of the data, this amount of data is still valuable. Any information helps us understand better the quantities, types, and location of marine debris at sea.

This data collection form requires no training and is self-explanatory. The level of accuracy will depend upon the respondent. A fairly high, though standardized (due to untrained respondents), error will be common and assumed among submitted data sheets. Though that particular error is unknown, it is expected to remain constant throughout this project, thus allowing analysis of trends over years. Data and information gathered, regardless of error, is also highly valuable as this information helps us understand better the quantities, types, and location of marine debris at sea, and in the case of potential disaster-related debris, helps us prepare for debris deposition on coastlines. All completed and submitted data sheets will be included in results analysis.

3. Describe methods to maximize response rates and to deal with issues of non-response. The accuracy and reliability of information collected must be shown to be adequate for intended uses. For collections based on sampling, a special justification must be provided for any collection that will not yield "reliable" data that can be generalized to the universe studied.

Pre-notification and communications through partners and available channels to reach respondent groups (e.g., recreational sailors) will be used. The data collection sheet was developed with the input and feedback of recreational sailors and thus questions are simple and brief. Based on these factors, as well as the assumption that most boaters would have a stakeholder interest in mapping of marine debris, a response rate of 25% is expected.

4. Describe any tests of procedures or methods to be undertaken. Testing is encouraged as an effective means of refining collections of information to minimize burden and improve utility. Tests must be approved if they call for answers to identical questions from 10 or more respondents. A proposed test or set of tests may be submitted for approval separately or in combination with the main collection of information.

The data collection sheet was successfully tested and used by TransPac and Vic-Maui Yacht Racers.

5. Provide the name and telephone number of individuals consulted on 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.

Development of data collection methods and sheet:

• Charles Moore, Algalita Marine Research Foundation, 562-900-7958

• Jim Foley, Center for Microbial Oceanography: Research and Education, 808-356-7424

• David Hyrenbach, PhD, Hawai‘i Pacific University, 808-228-4464

• Nikolai Maximenko, PhD, International Pacific Research Center, School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, 808-956-2584

• Kyle Koyanagi, NOAA Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center, Coral Reef Ecosystem Division, 808-927-9273

Collection of data:

• MaryLee Haughwout, NOAA Marine Debris Program, 301-706-0649