FR 2021-02905

In a recent notice published by the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) of the USDA, the agency has announced its intention to extend and revise an information collection related to its gypsy moth program. This initiative, which is a response to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, focuses on gathering data to better control and potentially eradicate gypsy moth infestations in the United States. Public comments on this information collection process are being invited, with a deadline set for April 13, 2021.

Summary of the Document

The notice details a program aimed at dealing with the European and Asian gypsy moths, both of which pose significant threats to trees and forests in the U.S. APHIS is tasked with monitoring these pests, which involves trapping and identifying moth specimens. Additionally, there is a requirement for checking household items moved from quarantined areas to ensure they are free of moths. The collection of information is crucial for tracking and managing gypsy moth populations and includes a self-inspection checklist that individuals can complete.

The estimated time for each response to this collection is approximately 0.362 hours, with a staggering 2,500,100 respondents contributing to a total annual burden of over 2.7 million hours.

Significant Issues and Concerns

A noteworthy concern is that the notice lacks transparency in the financial implications of this program. Detailed costs related to the collection process are not shared, which may lead to concerns about unnecessary spending. Additionally, the technical language used throughout the document, such as "OMB Control Number," may not be easily understood by those not familiar with governmental processes, potentially excluding some from meaningful public engagement.

The notice fails to clarify how the average time burden per response was determined, leaving uncertainties about whether this includes varying complexities of different tasks involved. Moreover, it does not provide insights into outcomes from previous phases of the program, raising questions about the tangible benefits and effectiveness of past efforts.

There is also a lack of specific strategies mentioned in how the process aims to reduce the burden on respondents through automated or electronic solutions, despite suggesting that such measures could be employed.

Public Impact

This document has broad implications for the public, primarily affecting individuals living in areas susceptible to gypsy moth infestations or those involved in interstate movement of goods. They will bear the time burden associated with responses to this information collection. The program's effectiveness could potentially prevent widespread ecological damage and economic losses in affected regions.

Stakeholder Impact

Stakeholders, such as local governments and environmental agencies, may find the collection valuable in strengthening local pest management efforts. However, they may be adversely affected by the lack of clear guidance or support on minimizing response burdens and might incur additional costs if automated solutions aren’t sufficiently provided or supported.

Positively, successful execution of the program could result in long-term ecological benefits and protection against future infestations, which would serve various sectors, including agriculture, tourism, and wildlife conservation. However, ensuring that the process, burden, and costs are transparent and effectively managed will be critical in maintaining stakeholder support and achieving desired outcomes.