FR 2021-00301

The document, titled "Agency Information Collection Activities; Submission to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for Review and Approval; Comment Request; Commercial Operator's Annual Report (COAR)," concerns a request by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for public comments on the renewal of the Commercial Operator's Annual Report (COAR). This report is required by certain fish processors in Alaska to describe their purchasing and production activities, which helps in assessing the value of fishery resources and informs state and federal fishery management decisions.

Summary of the Document

The NOAA uses the COAR to collect data on the economic value of fisheries to guide decision-making. By inviting public commentary, NOAA seeks input on the necessity, efficiency, and accuracy of the information collection process, as well as suggestions for reducing reporting burdens on the respondents. The document outlines how interested parties can submit comments and provides additional contact information for further inquiries.

Significant Issues and Concerns

One notable concern is the lack of clarity regarding the costs associated with managing the COAR program. While the document estimates an annual cost to the public at $392, it does not provide a breakdown or rationale behind this figure, which raises questions about its accuracy and comprehensiveness.

Additionally, the legal basis for the COAR, indicated as the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, is mentioned without specific sections referenced. This lack of detailed explanation may obscure understanding of the COAR's legal justification.

For users less familiar with technology, the instructions related to eLandings and data generation might be challenging. While instructions are provided, simplifying these or offering more detailed guides could improve accessibility.

Public and Stakeholder Impact

Broadly, the document affects the public by seeking engagement to ensure that information collection reflects practical use and limits the burden on those who must comply. For fish processors and associated businesses, the COAR is an important tool in maintaining transparency and proper resource management, but it imposes a time and administrative burden, taking an estimated eight hours per response.

A core concern for businesses is confidentiality. Although respondents are warned that their comments may be public, there is no mention of how sensitive business information shared in COAR submissions will be protected. Addressing confidentiality concerns could encourage more open feedback and participation.

Potential Impacts

For public agencies and researchers, the COAR data plays a critical role in generating a comprehensive understanding of the fisheries' economic impact. Accurate and efficient data collection informs policy and regulations that support sustainable fisheries management.

On the negative side, businesses obligated to submit the COAR may perceive it as a bureaucratic burden, especially if unclear instructions and potential confidentiality issues are not addressed. Improving these aspects could enhance stakeholder cooperation and data quality.

In conclusion, while the document outlines the importance of COAR in fisheries management, addressing the highlighted concerns could lead to a more effective and cooperative information collection process that benefits both the managing agencies and the stakeholders required to participate.

The document outlines a request for public comments on the Commercial Operator's Annual Report (COAR), as part of the compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. Within this context, it includes a mention of financial aspects associated with the public's compliance with this reporting requirement.

Summary of Financial References

The document specifically states an estimated total annual cost to the public of $392. This figure likely refers to the expenses that individuals or entities incur when gathering and submitting the necessary information for the COAR. It's important to note that this cost estimate does not cover the government's expenses in administering the COAR program, which are not detailed in the document.

Relation to Identified Issues

One of the issues noted is the absence of a detailed breakdown or explanation of how the estimated cost of $392 was calculated. This lack of transparency can lead to confusion among stakeholders regarding the validity and comprehensiveness of this estimate. Without specifics, stakeholders may find it challenging to understand the financial burden involved and question whether the estimate appropriately encompasses all necessary expenses.

Furthermore, the document does not provide any insights into potential administrative costs borne by the government. Understanding these costs is crucial for evaluating the efficiency and potential areas for cost reduction in administering the COAR program. In government programs, it is often as important to scrutinize public costs as it is to account for public sector and administrative expenditures.

In summary, while the document does provide an estimate of the annual cost to the public, it lacks clarity and comprehensive details that could aid stakeholders in assessing the financial fairness and efficiency of the COAR reporting obligation.