FR 2021-02487

The document is a notice from the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) expressing its intent to revise and extend a currently approved information collection survey regarding feral swine, as mandated by the 2014 Farm Bill. This process involves gathering data on the harm feral swine inflict on crops and livestock across multiple states, as this damage has been economically significant in the past. The survey is part of a larger $20 million initiative aimed at managing the growing population of feral swine.

Summary of the Document

The notice outlines the intent of NASS to collect information from farm and ranch operators to evaluate the economic impact of feral swine, which has proved significant. Historically, these surveys have tallied damage costs in the hundreds of millions of dollars, establishing the feral swine as a substantial threat to agriculture. The survey will initially be conducted by mail, followed by phone contact for non-responses. The annual burden for respondents is estimated at 9,700 hours.

Significant Issues or Concerns

One of the primary concerns with this document is the clarity and transparency regarding the estimated crop loss figure of $272 million per year due to feral swine damage. The document lacks specific data or a methodology to justify this figure. Similarly, the document sets an estimated annual burden of 9,700 hours on respondents without sufficient explanation.

Furthermore, while the document mentions that confidentiality will be maintained for identifiable data, this section lacks clarity. Ensuring that respondents fully understand the measures taken to protect their information is crucial to encourage participation.

The approach for following up on non-responses via mail and then phone is not thoroughly described, raising questions about its efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Additionally, the document refers to complex legislative references - such as the 2014 Farm Bill and several U.S. Code citations - without providing sufficient context, which could lead to confusion among the general public.

Potential Impact on the Public

The proposed information collection can significantly impact the agricultural community as it aims to address and mitigate the economic losses attributed to feral swine. By providing accurate data, the survey can inform policymakers on necessary actions and policies to handle the feral swine issue more effectively. This could lead to more targeted and effective control measures, benefiting the agriculture industry as a whole.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

For farm and ranch operators, this survey represents a chance to voice the impacts feral swine have on their livelihoods and to contribute to the development of mitigation strategies. However, the time and effort required to participate in the survey may be seen as burdensome and could deter some from responding. If effectively managed, the data collected could lead to significant government efforts and resources directed toward resolving conflicts associated with feral swine, positively affecting these operators.

On the other hand, government agencies and policymakers could benefit from enriched data, allowing them to craft more precise legislation and allocate resources effectively. Potential inefficiencies in the survey process might, however, lead to mismanagement and wastage of funds if the data collection approach is not enhanced for accuracy and cost-effectiveness.

The document from the Federal Register contains several important financial references related to the impact of feral swine on agriculture and the efforts to mitigate this issue.

Estimated Financial Losses Due to Feral Swine

The document notes that a benchmark survey conducted in 2015 found that feral swine caused an estimated $190 million in damage to crops across 11 states. This highlights the significant economic impact feral swine have on agricultural production. Further extrapolation of data in a 13-state region revealed that the damage attributed to livestock due to feral swine is estimated to cost about $40 million annually. In 2019, another survey estimated a crop loss amounting to $272 million per year in 12 states. However, the process or data backing these figures is not extensively detailed in the document, which leaves some readers seeking more clarity regarding how these estimates were derived.

Program Funding and Allocation

To address the issues posed by feral swine, a $20 million program authorized under the 2014 Farm Bill and other legislative measures aims to assist states in managing the growing population of these invasive animals. This financial allocation indicates a commitment to mitigating the damage caused by feral swine, although further explanation of how these funds are specifically distributed or utilized would be beneficial for a comprehensive understanding.

Survey Burden and Costs

The estimated annual burden on respondents to the survey is calculated at 9,700 hours, though the document does not provide a detailed breakdown or justification of how this figure is reached. Understanding how these hours translate into costs, both for the respondents and the administrative body collecting the data, would provide clarity. This lack of detail might raise questions about the efficiency and necessity of the survey effort as described.

In summary, while the document outlines significant financial impacts and a substantial funds allocation to address them, further clarity and detail on the methodology behind these estimates and the utilization of program funds would enhance transparency and understanding for the general public.