FR 2020-29047

The document from the Federal Register summarizes a request for public comments by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service regarding a new information collection initiative. This initiative aligns with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 and involves the Online Eastern Population Sandhill Crane Survey Data Entry Portal. The goal is to further understand and manage the population trends of sandhill cranes. Participants, including individuals and state agencies, are asked to register online and provide data concerning crane sightings, which is crucial for setting appropriate hunting regulations and ensuring the effective management of the sandhill crane population.

General Summary

The main thrust of this document is to invite public feedback on a new data collection system designed to track the population changes and distribution of sandhill cranes. The information gathered will be used primarily to guide regulatory decisions concerning hunting and to protect the crane population. The survey utilizes an online portal where participants submit details such as sighting locations and crane counts. This approach aims to streamline data submission, reduce costs, and minimize respondent burden.

Significant Issues or Concerns

Several issues are noteworthy within this context:

• Lack of Budgetary Details: The document does not outline the financial implications of creating and maintaining the data entry portal. This omission could lead to concerns about potential overspending or inefficient allocation of resources.

• Transparency Concerns: There is no mention of specific beneficiaries in the development of the portal. Such omissions can lead to questions regarding transparency and whether favoritism was involved in the allocation of development resources.

• Complex Language: The document includes technical jargon related to the Paperwork Reduction Act and survey methodologies. For a general audience, particularly those with only a high school education, such language may hinder understanding and engagement.

• Ambiguity in Legal Authority: The document references the authority granted by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the Paperwork Reduction Act without elaborating on the connection between these laws and the proposed information collection. This lack of clarity may lead to confusion regarding the legal justification for the data collection efforts.

Impact on the Public

Broadly speaking, the new information collection initiative could have several impacts on the public:

• Informed Wildlife Management: By gathering accurate data, the Service aims to regulate hunting more effectively and ensure the sustainable management of the sandhill crane populations. This benefits not only the species but also people who engage in recreational hunting, ensuring they can continue their activities responsibly.

• Public Participation: The call for comments exemplifies a democratic approach to policymaking, allowing the public an opportunity to express concerns or provide suggestions on the proposed data collection effort.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

For stakeholders such as conservationists, wildlife agencies, and hunters, the initiative carries particular implications:

• Conservationists and Wildlife Agencies: The collected data will help in conservation planning and ensuring the future health of the crane population. Additionally, the collaboration facilitated through the data portal may enhance wildlife management efforts across regions.

• Hunters and Outdoor Enthusiasts: Those who enjoy hunting or observing wildlife may find reassurance in the fact that hunting regulations will be informed by reliable data, balanced to prevent both overharvesting and unnecessarily restrictive measures.

Overall, while the new initiative promises improved management of sandhill crane populations, the accompanying issues suggest a need for greater clarity and transparency to maximize public understanding and engagement.