🌊Marine Mammal Protection Act Compliance for Geophysical Surveys
Takes of Marine Mammals Incidental to Specified Activities; Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to a Marine Geophysical Surveys in the Cascadia Subduction Zone in the Northeast Pacific Ocean
Summary
NMFS has received a request from Scripps Institution of Oceanography (SIO) for authorization to take marine mammals incidental to a geophysical survey in the Cascadia Subduction Zone of the Northeast Pacific Ocean. 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
This notice presents regulatory requirements for businesses engaged in marine geophysical surveys that may impact marine mammals. It includes procedures for applying for incidental harassment authorization and emphasizes compliance with the Marine Mammal Protection Act. Businesses must be aware of deadlines for comments and the implications of possible marine mammal interactions on operations.