🐬New Regulations on Incidental Takes of Marine Mammals in Oregon and Washington
Takes of Marine Mammals Incidental to Specified Activities; Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to the Lower Columbia River Dredged Material Management Plan, Oregon and Washington
Summary
NMFS, upon request from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), issues regulations to govern the unintentional taking of marine mammals incidental to implementation of the Lower Columbia River Dredged Material Management Plan in Oregon and Washington over 5 years (2027-2032). These regulations, which allow for the issuance of a Letter of Authorization (LOA) for the incidental take of marine mammals during the specified activities and timeframes, prescribe the permissible methods of taking and effecting the least practicable adverse impact on marine mammal species or stocks and their habitat, as well as monitoring and reporting requirements.
Agencies
- Commerce Department
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Business Impact
$$$ - High
The text outlines compliance and regulatory requirements for businesses involved in construction activities that may impact marine mammals. It specifies the need for permits, monitoring, and mitigation strategies, which could lead to increased operational costs and project delays for affected businesses.