🐋Final Rule on Marine Mammal Takes for Port of Alaska Modernization
Takes of Marine Mammals Incidental to Specified Activities; Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to the Port of Alaska Modernization Program Phase 2B: Cargo Terminals Replacement Project in Anchorage, Alaska
Summary
NMFS, upon request from the Don Young Port of Alaska (POA), hereby promulgates regulations to govern the taking of marine mammals incidental to the Cargo Terminals Replacement (CTR) project at the existing port facility in Anchorage, Alaska over the course of 5 years. These regulations, which allow for the issuance of a Letter of Authorization (LOA) for the incidental take of marine mammals during the specified activities in the specified geographical region (see Description of the Specified Activities section) during the effective dates of the regulations, prescribe the permissible methods of taking and other means of effecting the least practicable adverse impact on marine mammal species or stocks and their habitat, as well as requirements pertaining to the monitoring and reporting of such taking.
Agencies
- Commerce Department
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Business Impact
$$ - Med
This regulatory text establishes compliance requirements for the Port of Alaska's construction activities related to marine mammal protections, which directly impact operational timelines, costs, and environmental responsibilities for businesses involved. The issuance of the Letter of Authorization (LOA) indicates viable protocols for taking marine mammals during specific activities, necessitating adherence to the regulations.