Search Results for agency_names:"Interior Department"

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) issued a final supplementary rule for public lands in the Tres Rios and Gunnison Field Offices in Colorado. This rule affects how motorized and non-motorized vehicles can be used, designates day-use areas, and sets rules for wildlife habitat protection, camping, and campfires. It aims to protect visitor health and safety and prevent damage to natural and cultural resources. These rules are based on previous management plans and public input, and violations can lead to fines or imprisonment.

The Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement, part of the Interior Department, has announced a proposal to renew an information collection under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. This collection concerns the bond and insurance requirements for companies involved in surface coal mining and reclamation operations. They are seeking public comments on aspects such as the necessity, timeliness, and accuracy of this collection process. Interested parties are encouraged to submit their feedback by February 4, 2025.

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is seeking public comments on its request to renew surveys and focus groups used to gather information from visitors and nearby community members of public lands. This information aids in planning decisions related to recreation services. The request has been submitted to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for approval as required by the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. The public can send comments or recommendations until January 9, 2025, and the collected data will support the BLM's visitor services planning for three more years.

The Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE) is inviting public comments on the renewal of an information collection, in line with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. Interested individuals can submit their feedback by March 31, 2025. The collected data involves procedures for terminating jurisdiction of mining operations and other related activities under the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977. The agency is seeking input on the necessity, timeliness, burden estimate, and methods to enhance utility and minimize respondent burden, including through technological means.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is proposing changes to its existing information collection process related to special use permits for activities on national wildlife refuges. They plan to introduce a new, simplified application form (Form 3-1383-EZ) to reduce the burden on applicants involved in non-economic activities. In addition, they are updating other forms to include more relevant activity options and improve the wording for clarity. Public comments on these changes are invited until February 18, 2025.

The National Park Service (NPS) issued a final rule under the Visitor Experience Improvements Authority (VEIA) to enhance visitor services in National Park System units. This rule allows the NPS to use new contracting models like management and percentage lease agreements to improve facilities and services such as lodging, food services, and recreational activities. The VEIA grants flexibility in contract solicitation and selection processes, aiming to attract more businesses and improve visitor experiences while ensuring the preservation of park resources. The rule outlines criteria for awarding contracts, prohibits certain types of commercial services, and includes provisions for record-keeping and access to information.

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) announced a proposal to renew an information collection process related to mineral surveys, patent applications, and other mining-related activities under the Paperwork Reduction Act. The public and other federal agencies are invited to comment on this proposal by January 9, 2025. The BLM is seeking feedback on the necessity and utility of the information collected, the estimated burden on respondents, and ways to improve the process. This renewal is necessary due to the ongoing possibility that the current moratorium on processing new mineral patent applications may be lifted.

The National Park Service proposes to update regulations for using personal watercraft at the Gulf Islands National Seashore. The proposal includes reducing flat wake speed zones in specific areas and officially closing certain parts of West Petit Bois Island and around the Fort Pickens ferry pier to watercraft. These changes aim to protect the natural and cultural resources of the seashore and enhance visitor safety. Public comments on this proposed rule must be submitted by March 16, 2021.

The Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE) has partly approved and partly denied amendments to Montana's regulatory program regarding surface mining, which sought to alter the definition of "material damage" and change permit requirements for hydrologic information. These amendments were proposed following legislation passed by the Montana Legislature. OSMRE disapproved the changes related to how material damage is defined concerning hydrologic balance and subsidence but approved the definition regarding alluvial valley floors and the restructuring of a prior definition. The action reflects careful consideration to ensure state regulations align with the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act and federal regulations.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking to renew its information collection process for the Federal Duck Stamp and Junior Duck Stamp contests without any changes. These programs, which began in the 1930s and 1990s respectively, help preserve habitats and promote conservation education through art contests that allow participants to submit duck-themed artwork. The Federal Duck Stamp Contest is open to adults, while the Junior Duck Stamp Contest is for students in kindergarten to grade 12, and both programs have contributed significantly to wildlife habitat conservation efforts. The Service is requesting public comments on the collection process to ensure it minimizes burdens and serves its intended purpose.