🌊Marine Mammal Protection Regulation for Columbia River Construction
Takes of Marine Mammals Incidental to Specified Activities; Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to Sand Island Pile Dike Repairs in the Columbia River
Summary
NMFS has received a request from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) for authorization to take marine mammals incidental to the Sand Island Pile Dike Repairs Project in the Mouth of the Columbia River (MCR). 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 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 proposed regulatory action requires compliance with the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) that impacts businesses conducting construction activities in the specified area. Authorization processes and requirements for mitigation measures influence operational timelines, costs, and potential liabilities related to marine mammal interactions.