🐋Impact on Marine Mammals from Seismic Survey Off Western Mexico
Takes of Marine Mammals Incidental to Specified Activities; Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to a Marine Geophysical Survey Off Western Mexico in the Eastern Tropical Pacific Ocean
Summary
NMFS has received a request from the Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory (L-DEO) for authorization to take marine mammals incidental to a marine geophysical survey off Western Mexico in the Eastern Tropical Pacific Ocean (ETP). Pursuant to the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), NMFS is requesting comments on its proposal to issue an incidental harassment authorization (IHA) to incidentally take marine mammals during the specified activities. NMFS is also requesting comments on a possible one-time, 1-year renewal that could be issued under certain circumstances and if all requirements are met, as described in Request for Public Comments at the end of this notice. NMFS will consider public comments prior to making any final decision on the issuance of the requested MMPA authorization and agency responses will be summarized in the final notice of our decision.
Agencies
- Commerce Department
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Business Impact
$$ - Med
The document outlines compliance and regulatory requirements for the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA). Businesses involved in marine activities, like the proposed seismic survey, must secure an incidental harassment authorization, ensuring minimal impact on marine mammals, which is crucial for operational licensing and compliance.