FR 2021-02443

The document from the Federal Register involves a submission by the Department of Commerce to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) regarding the Alaska American Fisheries Act. The document details a request to collect information necessary for managing the Bering Sea pollock fishery. This effort is part of ongoing compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act, aimed at balancing the burden of information collection with the utility of the data gathered.

General Overview

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is tasked with managing the Bering Sea pollock fishery. Under the American Fisheries Act, the goal is to efficiently organize the fishery while addressing environmental concerns such as salmon bycatch. The collection of data is instrumental in monitoring fisheries' operations, which helps in assessing current conservation strategies, particularly those focused on minimizing salmon bycatch. The public is invited to comment on these efforts for a specified 30-day period.

Significant Issues and Concerns

One notable concern is the vague description of the affected public, which is limited to “business or other for-profit organizations.” The document would benefit from a clearer delineation of the specific entities involved. Another issue arises from the potential inefficiency of the information collection process. Eleven respondents are subjected to a significant total annual burden of 486 hours, raising questions about whether the output justifies the time investment.

Furthermore, there is a lack of transparent rationale explaining how the gathered data directly contributes to reducing salmon bycatch. It would enhance comprehension to have detailed examples of the positive impact of this data collection. Additionally, the legal framework connecting the Magnuson-Stevens Act with the American Fisheries Act is not laid out in simple terms. Simplifying this for the general public could improve understanding and engagement.

The process for submitting comments uses a website, reginfo.gov, which might intimidate or confuse the uninitiated public. More detailed guidance on navigating this site could foster greater participation.

Impact on the Public

Broadly, the document addresses an effort to maintain sustainable fishing practices, which can have widespread environmental and economic implications. By ensuring proper management of the fishery, the effort potentially safeguards marine ecosystems, which is beneficial for future generations. This has an overarching positive goal, contributing to preserving vital fish stocks and the overall health of the marine environment.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

For the specific stakeholders, namely those involved in the groundfish fisheries in Alaska, the implications of this document are significant. The data collection efforts aim to ensure fair and sustainable fishing practices, like maintaining quotas and monitoring bycatch. If well-implemented, these measures can preserve their economic interests in the long run. However, these stakeholders might find the reporting burdensome if they perceive the requirements as disproportionate to the benefits derived.

Moreover, how these regulations and subsequent reports are managed can impact coastal communities reliant on fishing. Positive impacts include improved resource management leading to sustained fishery productivity, while negative impacts could surface if the regulations are overly restrictive without clear justification or tangible benefits.

In summary, this document is an essential step in managing a crucial component of the United States’ fisheries but requires improvements in clarity and stakeholder engagement to ensure effective implementation.