🐬Proposed Marine Mammal Harassment Authorization for Harbor Project
Takes of Marine Mammals Incidental to Specified Activities; Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to Small Boat Harbor Preconstruction Activities (Geotechnical Surveys) in St. George, Alaska
Summary
NMFS has received a request from the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) for authorization to take marine mammals incidental to geotechnical drilling in St. George, Alaska. 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 regulatory notice indicates a proposed incidental harassment authorization (IHA) for marine mammals linked to geotechnical activities for harbor construction. Business owners, particularly in construction and environmental sectors, must comply with environmental regulations under the MMPA, which could impact project timelines and costs. Public comment is sought, which businesses might use to express concerns or seek to influence outcomes.