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.
$69,787
No
No
No
No
No
Uncollected
Hope Grey 703 358-2482
hope_grey@fws.gov
No
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.