FR 2024-28501

The Department of Commerce has issued a notice seeking public comments on a proposed information collection activity, specifically targeting the interactions between recreational anglers and sea turtles. This endeavor, under the auspices of NOAA's National Marine Fisheries Service, aims to gather data to assess how fishing practices on piers and other shore-based locations affect sea turtles. This data collection is necessary to comply with the Endangered Species Act, which seeks to protect and recover imperiled species and the ecosystems upon which they depend.

General Summary

This document, published in the Federal Register, outlines NOAA's intention to revise and extend an existing information collection process. The process includes conducting an Angler Intercept Survey, which will involve verbal questioning of anglers about their fishing practices and experiences with sea turtles. The survey will be administered to approximately 6,667 participants annually over three years. In addition to gaining insight into fishing activities, the survey aims to evaluate the methodology's effectiveness in garnering responses and collecting data. The Department is currently accepting public comments concerning this data collection effort.

Significant Issues or Concerns

One notable concern with this document is the absence of an abstract, which could provide a concise summary of its purpose and goals. Another issue is the potential lack of representation in the survey. The survey targets anglers in NOAA's Greater Atlantic and Southeast Regions, yet the rationale for choosing these regions while excluding others is not clearly explained, which may introduce regional bias. Furthermore, the document uses technical jargon and references specific forms by their control numbers, which might be confusing for the general public without further explanation. The "Needs and Uses" section, although informative, could be more explicit about how collected data will directly result in conservation measures, enhancing public understanding of the initiative's benefits.

Impact on the Public

Broadly, this document highlights an initiative that could lead to more informed conservation strategies, positively affecting sea turtle populations, an essential component of marine ecosystems. While the public at large might not be directly involved unless participating in fishing activities, the outcomes of this study may influence regulations and guidelines surrounding recreational angling practices. Public input during this comment period is crucial to ensure that a comprehensive range of insights and perspectives are considered before implementing the study.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

For individuals engaged in recreational angling, especially within the specified regions, this information collection could eventually impact fishing practices and regulations, depending on the findings regarding sea turtle interactions. These anglers might experience changes aimed at reducing turtle bycatch and enhancing sustainable fishing practices. Conservation groups focused on protecting marine life could view this initiative positively, as it aligns with broader conservation goals to preserve endangered species. Meanwhile, pier operators and local businesses that rely on recreational fishing might have concerns about potential regulation changes impacting economic activity.

This federal initiative thus plays a pivotal role in balancing recreational fishing interests with the urgent need to protect sea turtles, fostering a sustainable approach to human and wildlife interactions in marine environments.