FR 2025-05390

This document, published in the Federal Register, is a notice from the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), announcing that Charted Marine Consulting has applied for a permit to research bottlenose dolphins in Texas. The document outlines the objectives of the proposed research, which aims to better understand the dolphin population regarding its structure, distribution, health, and how it interacts with human activities.

General Summary

The research permit application allows for the study of up to 8,670 dolphins each year over a ten-year period. The research includes photo-identification, behavioral observation, and passive acoustic recordings. A portion of the dolphins may also be subject to sampling under strict regulations. Up to 50 non-target species may be unintentionally disturbed but are noted in the application to be minimal. Public comments related to this application are invited until April 28, 2025, allowing the public an opportunity to voice concerns or support for the project.

Significant Issues and Concerns

Several issues arise from this notice that warrant public consideration:

• Budget and Funding Transparency: The document does not specify how the project will be funded or disclose the budget, potentially concealing concerns of financial irresponsibility or wasteful spending.

• Selection Process Transparency: There is no mention of how Charted Marine Consulting was chosen to conduct this research. Without information on competitive bidding or a selection process, concerns about favoritism or fairness could arise.

• Impact on Non-target Species: While the potential harassment of up to 50 non-target cetaceans is acknowledged, the notice lacks details about how any negative effects on these animals will be mitigated. This omission could raise concerns among conservationists about the thoroughness of planning and care regarding marine wildlife protection.

• Environmental Considerations: The document states that the activities are "categorically excluded" from environmental review, but provides no elaborate justification. This could be seen as a lack of transparency and raises questions about the environmental impacts of potentially disruptive research activities.

Impact on the Public

For the general public, the document serves as a remote yet significant reminder of ongoing scientific endeavors in marine environments, highlighting the importance of understanding and preserving marine life. It invites public scrutiny and feedback, giving individuals a voice in the approval process for activities affecting public environmental resources.

Impact on Stakeholders

Positive Impacts:

• Scientific Community: The research could provide valuable data contributing to marine biology and conservation science, aiding efforts to protect marine mammals.

• Local Government and Residents: An improved understanding of dolphin populations and their health could lead to enhanced tourism opportunities, stricter environmental protections, and better stewardship of local marine areas.

Negative Impacts:

• Environmental Advocates: Without clear environmental assessments or mitigative strategies, advocates might perceive this project as a possible risk to marine ecosystems.

• Fishing and Boating Industries: If restrictive measures are introduced as a result of the research's findings, these industries may experience tighter regulations, impacting their operations negatively.

Ultimately, transparency in the permit process and ongoing communication with the public will be vital in addressing these issues while maintaining a balance between scientific advancement and environmental responsibility.