🐬Compliance Requirements for Marine Mammal Protection in Pipeline Projects
Takes of Marine Mammals Incidental to Specified Activities; Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to the Northeast Supply Enhancement Project in Raritan Bay, Lower New York Bay and the Atlantic Ocean
Summary
NMFS has received a request from Transcontinental Gas Pipe Line Company, LLC (Transco), a subsidiary of Williams Partners L.P., for authorization to take marine mammals incidental to the Northeast Supply Enhancement Project in Raritan Bay, Lower New York Bay, and the Atlantic 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
The document outlines compliance requirements for businesses involved in activities impacting marine mammals, specifically through proposed regulations on the incidental harassment of marine mammals during pipeline construction. Business owners must comply with the Marine Mammal Protection Act and may need to engage in public comment processes, affecting project timelines and financial planning.