FR 2024-31248

The Department of Agriculture has submitted a request to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review concerning an information collection initiative. This process aligns with the requirements set by the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, aiming to ensure federal agencies efficiently use information gathering to facilitate their functions. Public feedback is encouraged, particularly regarding the necessity, practicality, and clarity of the information being solicited, with submissions closing on January 29, 2025.

Summary of the Document

The document details a specific initiative by the Forest Service to gather information related to the identification of significant caves on federal lands, as mandated by the Federal Cave Resources Protection Act. This involves collecting data, presumably from amateur and professional cavers, to maintain an updated record of these caves, ensuring their protection and management. The method used for collecting this information is the "Significant Cave Nomination Worksheet."

Significant Issues and Concerns

One notable issue highlighted in this document is its ambiguity regarding the relatively small number of respondents, estimated at only ten. This raises questions about the scope of outreach efforts and the comprehensiveness of the data collected. Furthermore, while the term "cavers" implies certain contributors, the text lacks clarity on how these contributors are identified and engaged. It also omits any financial implications, which are critical in understanding the broader scope of the project in terms of cost-effectiveness and resource allocation.

Moreover, there is an absence of comparative analysis regarding the efficiency of the proposed data collection method. In an era increasingly focused on technological solutions, the document could discuss how technological innovations might ease the data collection burden or improve data accuracy.

The criteria for identifying a cave as "significant" are vital to properly contextualize the document's purpose but are inadequately addressed. While the Federal Cave Resources Protection Act does not precisely define what makes a cave significant, an outline of currently considered factors would help stakeholders understand the Forest Service's evaluation process.

Broader Public Impact

For the general public, understanding and participating in policymaking concerning natural resources like caves can enhance awareness of environmental protection efforts. However, the limited number of respondents expected may restrict the level of public engagement and contribution, potentially narrowing the breadth of inputs that could shape this policy.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

For stakeholders directly involved, such as amateur cavers and conservation groups, this document plays a crucial role by potentially formalizing their contributions to preserving natural resources. However, a broader outreach to ensure more inclusive participation would likely yield richer, more diverse inputs that could significantly affect the program's outcome. On the downside, if the process is perceived as opaque or exclusionary, it might discourage stakeholder participation, affecting the comprehensiveness and effectiveness of the cave protection efforts.

In summary, while the initiative is critical for environmental conservation, it would benefit from increased transparency and strategic enhancements in how information is gathered and applied. Addressing the current gaps could enhance stakeholder engagement, improve data quality, and ensure that the caves on federal lands are effectively preserved for future generations.