Rules and Regulations. Final rule
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BILLING CODE 4810-02-P DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Coast Guard 33 CFR Part 100 [CGD05-07-001] RIN 1625-AA08 Special Local Regulations for Marine Events; Severn River, College Creek, Weems Creek and Carr Creek, Annapolis, MD AGENCY: Coast Guard, DHS. ACTION: Final rule. SUMMARY: The Coast Guard is amending the special local regulations at 33 CFR 100.518. This rulemaking is intended to accommodate changes in event dates for recurring marine events specified in this regulation.
The marine events included in this special local regulation include the Safety at Sea Seminar, U.S. Naval Academy Crew Races and the Blue Angels Air Show. This rule is intended to restrict vessel traffic in portions of the Severn River during the period of these marine events and is necessary to provide for the safety of life on navigable waters during the event. DATES: This rule is effective March 24, 2007. ADDRESSES: Documents indicated in this preamble as being available in the docket, are part of docket (CGD05-07-001) and are available for inspection or copying at Commander (dpi), Fifth Coast Guard District, 431 Crawford Street, Portsmouth, Virginia 23704-5004, between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Dennis M. Sens, Project Manager, Inspections and Compliance Branch, at
(757)398-6204. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Regulatory Information On February 1, 2007, we published a Notice of proposed rulemaking
(NPRM)entitled Special Local Regulations for Marine Events; College Creek, Weems Creek and Carr Creek, Annapolis, MD in the **Federal Register** (72 FR 4669). We received no letters commenting on the proposed rule. No public meeting was requested, and none was held. Under 5 U.S.C. 553(d)(3), the Coast Guard finds that good cause exists for making this rule effective less than 30 days after publication in the **Federal Register** . Delaying the effective date would be contrary to the public interest, since immediate action is needed to ensure the safety of the event participants, support craft and other vessels transiting the event area. However, advance notifications will be made to affected waterway users via marine information broadcasts, area newspapers and local radio stations. Background and Purpose We are amending 33 CFR 100.518 to accommodate changes to the enforcement period for U.S. Naval Academy sponsored marine events. Each year the U.S. Naval Academy hosts various marine events on the Severn River adjacent to the academy. Organized collegiate crew races are typically held annually during weekends in March, April and May. The Blue Angels air show is normally scheduled during graduation week at the U.S. Naval Academy. Maritime traffic is prohibited from using the regulated area of the Severn River during air show performances in accordance with Federal Aviation Administration requirements. The dates for marine events for 2007 will be; Safety at Sea Seminar on March 24, 2007; U.S. Naval Academy crew races on May 6 and May 27, 2007; and the Blue Angels air show on May 23 and May 24, 2007. The special regulation will be enforced from 5 a.m. to 6 p.m. on those days and if the event's daily activities should conclude prior to 6 p.m., enforcement of this regulation may be terminated for that day at the discretion of the Patrol Commander. The U.S. Naval Academy is the sponsor for all of these events and intends to hold them annually on the dates provided in 33 CFR 100.518. Discussion of Comments and Changes The Coast Guard did not receive comments in response to the Notice of proposed rulemaking
(NPRM)published in the **Federal Register** . Accordingly, the Coast Guard is establishing temporary special local regulations on specified waters of the Severn River, College Creek, Weems Creek and Carr Creek, Annapolis, Maryland. Regulatory Evaluation This rule is not a “significant regulatory action” under section 3(f) of Executive Order 12866, Regulatory Planning and Review, and does not require an assessment of potential costs and benefits under section 6(a)(3) of that Order. The Office of Management and Budget has not reviewed it under that Order. It is not “significant” under the regulatory policies and procedures of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). We expect the economic impact of this rule to be so minimal that a full Regulatory Evaluation under the regulatory policies and procedures of DHS is unnecessary. The effect of this action merely establishes the dates on which the existing regulations would be enforced. It would not impose any additional restrictions on vessel traffic. Small Entities Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601-612), we have considered whether this rule would have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. The term “small entities” comprises small businesses, not-for-profit organizations that are independently owned and operated and are not dominant in their fields, and governmental jurisdictions with populations of less than 50,000. The Coast Guard certifies under 5 U.S.C. 605(b) that this rule would not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. This rule would affect the following entities, some of which might be small entities: the owners or operators of vessels intending to transit or anchor in a portion of the Severn River during the event. This rule would not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities for the following reasons. This rule would merely establish the dates on which the existing regulations would be enforced. It would not impose any additional restrictions on vessel traffic. Assistance for Small Entities Under section 213(a) of the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996 (Pub. L. 104-121), we offered to assist small entities in understanding this rule so that they can better evaluate its effects on them and participate in the rulemaking. If the rule would affect your small business, organization, or governmental jurisdiction and you have questions concerning its provisions or options for compliance, please contact the address listed under ADDRESSES . The Coast Guard will not retaliate against small entities that question or complain about this rule or any policy or action of the Coast Guard. Small businesses may send comments on the actions of Federal employees who enforce, or otherwise determine compliance with, Federal regulations to the Small Business and Agriculture Regulatory Enforcement Ombudsman and the Regional Small Business Regulatory Fairness Boards. The Ombudsman evaluates these actions annually and rates each agency's responsiveness to small business. If you wish to comment on actions by employees of the Coast Guard, call 1-888-REG-FAIR (1-888-734-3247). Collection of Information This rule would call for no new collection of information under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501-3520). Federalism A rule has implications for federalism under Executive Order 13132, Federalism, if it has a substantial direct effect on State or local governments and would either preempt State law or impose a substantial direct cost of compliance on them. We have analyzed this rule under that Order and have determined that it does not have implications for federalism. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act The Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (2 U.S.C. 1531-1538) requires Federal agencies to assess the effects of their discretionary regulatory actions. In particular, the Act addresses actions that may result in the expenditure by a State, local, or tribal government, in the aggregate, or by the private sector of $100,000,000 or more in any one year. Though this rule would not result in such an expenditure, we do discuss the effects of this rule elsewhere in this preamble. Taking of Private Property This rule would not effect a taking of private property or otherwise have taking implications under Executive Order 12630, Governmental Actions and Interference with Constitutionally Protected Property Rights. Civil Justice Reform This rule meets applicable standards in sections 3(a) and 3(b)(2) of Executive Order 12988, Civil Justice Reform, to minimize litigation, eliminate ambiguity, and reduce burden. Protection of Children We have analyzed this rule under Executive Order 13045, Protection of Children from Environmental Health Risks and Safety Risks. This rule is not an economically significant rule and would not create an environmental risk to health or risk to safety that might disproportionately affect children. Indian Tribal Governments This rule does not have tribal implications under Executive Order 13175, Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal Governments, because it would not have a substantial direct effect on one or more Indian tribes, on the relationship between the Federal Government and Indian tribes, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities between the Federal Government and Indian tribes. Energy Effects We have analyzed this rule under Executive Order 13211, Actions Concerning Regulations That Significantly Affect Energy Supply, Distribution, or Use. We have determined that it is not a “significant energy action” under that order because it is not a “significant regulatory action” under Executive Order 12866 and is not likely to have a significant adverse effect on the supply, distribution, or use of energy. The Administrator of the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs has not designated it as a significant energy action. Therefore, it does not require a Statement of Energy Effects under Executive Order 13211. Technical Standards The National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act (NTTAA) (15 U.S.C. 272 note) directs agencies to use voluntary consensus standards in their regulatory activities unless the agency provides Congress, through the Office of Management and Budget, with an explanation of why using these standards would be inconsistent with applicable law or otherwise impractical. Voluntary consensus standards are technical standards (e.g., specifications of materials, performance, design, or operation; test methods; sampling procedures; and related management systems practices) that are developed or adopted by voluntary consensus standards bodies. This rule does not use technical standards. Therefore, we did not consider the use of voluntary consensus standards. Environment We have analyzed this rule under Commandant Instruction M16475.lD and Department of Homeland Security Management Directive 5100.1, which guides the Coast Guard in complying with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969
(NEPA)(42 U.S.C. 4321-4370f), and have concluded that there are no factors in this case that would limit the use of a categorical exclusion under section 2.B.2 of the Instruction. Therefore, this rule is categorically excluded, under figure 2-1, paragraph (34)(h), of the Instruction, from further environmental documentation. Special local regulations issued in conjunction with a regatta or marine event permit are specifically excluded from further analysis and documentation under that section. Under figure 2-1, paragraph (34)(h), of the Instruction, an “Environmental Analysis Check List” and a “Categorical Exclusion Determination” are not required for this rule. List of Subjects in 33 CFR Part 100 Marine safety, Navigation (water), Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, Waterways. For the reasons discussed in the preamble, the Coast Guard amends 33 CFR part 100 as follows: PART 100—SAFETY OF LIFE ON NAVIGABLE WATERS 1. The authority citation for part 100 is revised to read as follows: Authority: 33 U.S.C. 1233. 2. Revise paragraphs (c)(1) introductory text, (c)(1)(i), (c)(1)(ii), (c)(1)(iii) and (c)(2) and add paragraph (c)(3) of § 100.518 to read as follows: § 100.518 Severn River, College Creek, Weems Creek and Carr Creek, Annapolis, Maryland.
(c)*Enforcement period.*
(1)This section will be enforced from 5 a.m. to 6 p.m. on days when the following events are held:
(i)Safety at Sea Seminar, held on the fourth Saturday in March;
(ii)Naval Academy Crew Races held on the last weekend in March and every weekend in April and May;
(iii)Blue Angels Air Show, held on the fourth Tuesday and Wednesday in May.
(2)Should the event's daily activities conclude prior to 6 p.m., enforcement of this section may be terminated for that day at the discretion of the Coast Guard Patrol Commander.
(3)The Commander, Fifth Coast Guard District will publish a notice in the Fifth Coast Guard District Local Notice to Mariners announcing the specific event dates and times. Notice will also be made via marine Safety Radio Broadcast on VHF-FM marine band radio channel 22 (157.1 MHz). Dated: March 8, 2007. Larry L. Hereth, Rear Admiral, U.S. Coast Guard, Commander, Fifth Coast Guard District. [FR Doc. E7-4938 Filed 3-16-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-15-P DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Coast Guard 33 CFR Part 100 [CGD05-07-004] RIN 1625-AA08 Special Local Regulations for Marine Events; St. Mary's River, St. Mary's City, MD AGENCY: Coast Guard, DHS. ACTION: Temporary final rule. SUMMARY: The Coast Guard is temporarily changing the enforcement period for the “St. Mary's Seahawk Sprint” held annually on the waters of the St. Mary's River, near St. Mary's City, Maryland. This special local regulation is intended to restrict vessel traffic in portions of the St. Mary's River and is necessary to provide for the safety of life on navigable waters during the event. DATES: This rule is effective from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. on April 21, 2007. ADDRESSES: Documents indicated in this preamble as being available in the docket, are part of docket (CGD05-07-004) and are available for inspection or copying at Commander (dpi), Fifth Coast Guard District, 431 Crawford Street, Portsmouth, Virginia 23704-5004, between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Dennis M. Sens, Project Manager, Inspections and Investigations Branch, at
(757)398-6204. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Regulatory Information On February 12, 2007, we published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking
(NPRM)entitled Special Local Regulations for Marine Events; St. Mary's River, St. Mary's City, MD in the **Federal Register** (72 FR 6510). We received no letters commenting on the proposed rule. No public meeting was requested, and none was held. Background and Purpose On April 21, 2007, St. Mary's College of Maryland will sponsor the “Seahawk Sprint” crew races on the waters of the St. Mary's River. The event will consist of intercollegiate crew rowing teams racing along a 2000 meter course on the waters of the St. Mary's River. A fleet of spectator vessels is expected to gather near the event site to view the competition. The regulation at 33 CFR 100.527 is effective annually for the St. Mary's College crew races marine event. Paragraph
(d)of Section 100.527 establishes the enforcement date for the St. Mary's Seahawk crew races. This regulation temporarily changes the enforcement date from the second Saturday in April to the third Saturday in April, holding the marine event on April 21, 2007. St. Mary's College crew club who is the sponsor for this event intends to hold this event annually; however, they have changed the date of the event for 2007 so that it is outside the scope of the existing enforcement period. To provide for the safety of participants, spectators, support and transiting vessels, the Coast Guard is temporarily restricting vessel traffic in the event area during the crew races. Discussion of Comments and Changes The Coast Guard did not receive comments in response to the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking
(NPRM)published in the **Federal Register** . Accordingly, the Coast Guard is establishing temporary special local regulations on specified waters of the St. Mary's River, St. Mary's City, Maryland. Regulatory Evaluation This rule is not a “significant regulatory action” under section 3(f) of Executive Order 12866, Regulatory Planning and Review, and does not require an assessment of potential costs and benefits under section 6(a)(3) of that Order. The Office of Management and Budget has not reviewed it under that Order. It is not “significant” under the regulatory policies and procedures of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). We expect the economic impact of this rule to be so minimal that a full Regulatory Evaluation under the regulatory policies and procedures of DHS is unnecessary. The effect of this action merely establishes the date on which the existing regulation would be in effect and would not impose any new restrictions on vessel traffic. Small Entities Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601-612), we have considered whether this rule would have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. The term “small entities” comprises small businesses, not-for-profit organizations that are independently owned and operated and are not dominant in their fields, and governmental jurisdictions with populations of less than 50,000. The Coast Guard certifies under 5 U.S.C. 605(b) that this rule would not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. This rule would effect the following entities, some of which might be small entities: the owners or operators of vessels intending to transit or anchor in a portion of the St. Mary's River during the event. This rule would not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities for the following reasons. This rule would merely change the date on which the existing regulations would be enforced in the regulated area and would not impose any new restrictions on vessel traffic. Assistance for Small Entities Under section 213(a) of the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996 (Pub. L. 104-121), we offered to assist small entities in understanding this rule so that they can better evaluate its effects on them and participate in the rulemaking. If the rule would affect your small business, organization, or governmental jurisdiction and you have questions concerning its provisions or options for compliance, please contact the address listed under ADDRESSES . The Coast Guard will not retaliate against small entities that question or complain about this rule or any policy or action of the Coast Guard. Small businesses may send comments on the actions of Federal employees who enforce, or otherwise determine compliance with, Federal regulations to the Small Business and Agriculture Regulatory Enforcement Ombudsman and the Regional Small Business Regulatory Fairness Boards. The Ombudsman evaluates these actions annually and rates each agency's responsiveness to small business. If you wish to comment on actions by employees of the Coast Guard, call 1-888-REG-FAIR (1-888-734-3247). Collection of Information This rule would call for no new collection of information under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501-3520). Federalism A rule has implications for federalism under Executive Order 13132, Federalism, if it has a substantial direct effect on State or local governments and would either preempt State law or impose a substantial direct cost of compliance on them. We have analyzed this rule under that Order and have determined that it does not have implications for federalism. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act The Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (2 U.S.C. 1531-1538) requires Federal agencies to assess the effects of their discretionary regulatory actions. In particular, the Act addresses actions that may result in the expenditure by a State, local, or tribal government, in the aggregate, or by the private sector of $100,000,000 or more in any one year. Though this rule would not result in such an expenditure, we do discuss the effects of this rule elsewhere in this preamble. Taking of Private Property This rule would not effect a taking of private property or otherwise have taking implications under Executive Order 12630, Governmental Actions and Interference with Constitutionally Protected Property Rights. Civil Justice Reform This rule meets applicable standards in sections 3(a) and 3(b)(2) of Executive Order 12988, Civil Justice Reform, to minimize litigation, eliminate ambiguity, and reduce burden. Protection of Children We have analyzed this rule under Executive Order 13045, Protection of Children from Environmental Health Risks and Safety Risks. This rule is not an economically significant rule and would not create an environmental risk to health or risk to safety that might disproportionately affect children. Indian Tribal Governments This rule does not have tribal implications under Executive Order 13175, Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal Governments, because it would not have a substantial direct effect on one or more Indian tribes, on the relationship between the Federal Government and Indian tribes, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities between the Federal Government and Indian tribes. Energy Effects We have analyzed this rule under Executive Order 13211, Actions Concerning Regulations That Significantly Affect Energy Supply, Distribution, or Use. We have determined that it is not a “significant energy action” under that order because it is not a “significant regulatory action” under Executive Order 12866 and is not likely to have a significant adverse effect on the supply, distribution, or use of energy. The Administrator of the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs has not designated it as a significant energy action. Therefore, it does not require a Statement of Energy Effects under Executive Order 13211. Technical Standards The National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act (NTTAA) (15 U.S.C. 272 note) directs agencies to use voluntary consensus standards in their regulatory activities unless the agency provides Congress, through the Office of Management and Budget, with an explanation of why using these standards would be inconsistent with applicable law or otherwise impractical. Voluntary consensus standards are technical standards (e.g., specifications of materials, performance, design, or operation; test methods; sampling procedures; and related management systems practices) that are developed or adopted by voluntary consensus standards bodies. This rule does not use technical standards. Therefore, we did not consider the use of voluntary consensus standards. Environment We have analyzed this rule under Commandant Instruction M16475.lD and Department of Homeland Security Management Directive 5100.1, which guides the Coast Guard in complying with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969
(NEPA)(42 U.S.C. 4321-4370f), and have concluded that there are no factors in this case that would limit the use of a categorical exclusion under section 2.B.2 of the Instruction. Therefore, this rule is categorically excluded, under figure 2-1, paragraph (34)(h), of the Instruction, from further environmental documentation. Special local regulations issued in conjunction with a regatta or marine event permit are specifically excluded from further analysis and documentation under that section. Under figure 2-1, paragraph (34)(h), of the Instruction, an “Environmental Analysis Check List” and a “Categorical Exclusion Determination” are not required for this rule. List of Subjects in 33 CFR Part 100 Marine safety, Navigation (water), Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, Waterways. For the reasons discussed in the preamble, the Coast Guard amends 33 CFR part 100 as follows: PART 100—SAFETY OF LIFE ON NAVIGABLE WATERS 1. The authority citation for part 100 is revised to read as follows: Authority: 33 U.S.C. 1233. 2. In § 100.527, from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. on April 21, 2007, suspend paragraph (d). 3. In § 100.527, from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. on April 21, 2007, add a new paragraph
(d)to read as follows: § 100.527 St. Mary's River, St. Mary's City, Maryland.
(d)*Enforcement period.* This section will be enforced from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. on April 21, 2007. A notice of enforcement of this section will be disseminated through the Fifth Coast Guard District Local Notice to Mariners announcing the specific event date and times. Notice will also be made via marine Safety Radio Broadcast on VHF-FM marine band radio channel 22 (157.1 MHz). Dated: March 8, 2007. Larry L. Hereth, Rear Admiral, U.S. Coast Guard, Commander, Fifth Coast Guard District. [FR Doc. E7-4936 Filed 3-16-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-15-P DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Coast Guard 33 CFR 104, 105 and 106 [Coast Guard-2006-24196] RIN 1652-AA41 Transportation Worker Identification Credential
(TWIC)Implementation in the Maritime Sector; Hazardous Materials Endorsement for a Commercial Driver's License AGENCY: United States Coast Guard, DHS. ACTION: Confirmation of effective date; approval of new Collection of Information (COI). SUMMARY: In the final rule with this same title published January 25, 2007, we noted that the Office of Management and Budget
(OMB)had not approved an extension and change to the collection of information associated with the amendments to 33 CFR 104.267, 105.257 and 106.262, requiring vessel and facility owners and operators wishing to grant unescorted access to a new hire prior to receipt of a TWIC to enter the new employee information into a Coast Guard owned and maintained Web site, *homeport.uscg.mil* , and await results of an expedited threat assessment. OMB has since approved that collection of information as Information Collection number 1625-0110, Maritime Identification Credentials—Title 33 CFR Part 125. The change was requested to extend an existing collection that was due to expire, and expand the collection to include the collection of information for the “new hire” provisions. DATES: 33 CFR 104.267, 105.257, and 106.262, published January 25, 2007 (72 FR 3492) will be effective March 26, 2007. The OMB approval was granted on January 12, 2007, and expires January 31, 2010. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: If you have questions on this document, call Kathryn Sinniger, Coast Guard, telephone 202-372-3858. If you have questions on viewing the docket (USCG-2005-20258), call Renee V. Wright, Program Manager, Docket Operations, telephone 202-493-0402. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Sections 104.267, 105.257 and 106.262 of title 33 of the Code of Federal Regulations
(CFR)provide an option for owners, operators or security officers of MTSA regulated vessels or facilities to enter new employee information into a Coast Guard owned and maintained Web site, *homeport.uscg.mil* , and await the results of an expedited threat assessment in order to grant the new employee unescorted access prior to receipt of a TWIC. These sections are known as the “new hire” provision. The “new hire” provision requirements affecting Homeport were added to collection 1625-0110 “Maritime Identification Credentials—Title 33 CFR Part 125,” which expired on November 30, 2006. The three year renewal for 1625-0110 was submitted to OMB on October 6, 2006, and an amendment to that renewal reflecting changes due to the “new hire” provision was submitted to OMB on December 29, 2006. The revision changed the collection, once the TWIC program goes into effect, to make the submission of new hire information voluntary but require owners and operators to wait until they receive a positive verification from Homeport before granting unescorted access to the new hire. The government's need for the information, the type of information to be submitted, the method of submission, and the frequency of submission should not change from the previously approved collection. Submitting the new hire information is a collection of information under OMB control no. 1625-0110. The final rule that contained the provisions for these submissions was published in the **Federal Register** on January 25, 2007, and is available electronically through the docket (USCG-2006-24196) Web site at *http://dms.dot.gov/* and will become effective on March 26, 2007. As required by 44 U.S.C. 3507(d), we submitted a copy of the final rule to OMB for its review. On January 12, 2007, after reviewing the rule, OMB approved the collection of information required by this final rule under OMB control no. 1625-0110. Dated: March 12, 2007. J.G. Lantz, Director of National and International Standards, Assistant Commandant for Prevention. [FR Doc. E7-4847 Filed 3-16-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-15-P DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration 50 CFR Part 648 [Docket No. 061020273-7001-03; I.D. 031207A] Fisheries of the Northeastern United States; Summer Flounder Fishery; Quota Transfer AGENCY: National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Commerce. ACTION: Temporary rule; inseason quota transfer. SUMMARY: NMFS announces that the State of North Carolina is transferring 69,558 lb (31,551 kg) of commercial summer flounder quota to the Commonwealth of Virginia from its 2007 quota. By this action, NMFS adjusts the quotas and announces the revised commercial quota for each state involved. DATES: Effective March 16, 2007 through December 31, 2007, unless NMFS publishes a superseding document in the **Federal Register** . FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Douglas Potts, Fishery Management Specialist,
(978)281-9341, FAX
(978)281-9135. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Regulations governing the summer flounder fishery are found at 50 CFR part 648. The regulations require annual specification of a commercial quota that is apportioned among the coastal states from North Carolina through Maine. The process to set the annual commercial quota and the percent allocated to each state are described in § 648.100. The final rule implementing Amendment 5 to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery Management Plan, which was published on December 17, 1993 (58 FR 65936), provided a mechanism for summer flounder quota to be transferred from one state to another. Two or more states, under mutual agreement and with the concurrence of the Administrator, Northeast Region, NMFS (Regional Administrator), can transfer or combine summer flounder commercial quota under § 648.100(d). The Regional Administrator is required to consider the criteria set forth in § 648.100(d)(3) in the evaluation of requests for quota transfers or combinations. North Carolina has agreed to transfer 69,558 lb (31,551 kg) of its 2007 commercial quota to Virginia to cover landings of eight North Carolina vessels granted safe harbor in Virginia due to winter storm conditions between February 13 and 15, 2007. The Regional Administrator has determined that the criteria set forth in § 648.100(d)(3) have been met. The revised quotas for calendar year 2007 are: North Carolina, 2,680,308 lb (1,215,767 kg); and Virginia, 2,208,376 lb (1,001,703 kg). Classification This action is taken under 50 CFR part 648 and is exempt from review under Executive Order 12866. Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 *et seq.* Dated: March 12, 2007. Alan D. Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable Fisheries, National Marine Fisheries Service. [FR Doc. E7-4886 Filed 3-16-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3510-22-S 72 52 Monday, March 19, 2007 Proposed Rules DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Coast Guard 33 CFR Part 100 [CGD05-07-012] RIN 1625-AA08 Special Local Regulations for Marine Events; Sail Virginia 2007, Port of Hampton Roads, VA AGENCY: Coast Guard, DHS. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking. SUMMARY: The Coast Guard proposes to establish temporary special local regulations for “Sail Virginia 2007” marine event. This action is necessary to provide for the safety of life on navigable waters before, during, and after Sail Virginia 2007 activities. This proposed action is intended to restrict vessel traffic in the vicinity of the tall ship parade as the parade transits the Chesapeake Bay, Hampton Roads, the James and Elizabeth Rivers and Norfolk Harbor. DATES: Comments and related material must reach the Coast Guard on or before April 18, 2007. ADDRESSES: You may mail comments and related material to Commander (dpi), Fifth Coast Guard District, 431 Crawford Street, Portsmouth, Virginia 23704-5004, hand-deliver them to Room 415 at the same address between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays, or fax them to
(757)391-8149. The Inspections and Investigations Branch, Fifth Coast Guard District, maintains the public docket for this rulemaking. Comments and material received from the public, as well as documents indicated in this preamble as being available in the docket, will become part of this docket and will be available for inspection or copying at the above address between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: LTJG TaQuitia Winn, U.S. Coast Guard Sector Hampton Roads, at
(757)668-5580. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Request for Comments We encourage you to participate in this rulemaking by submitting comments and related material. If you do so, please include your name and address, identify the docket number for this rulemaking (CGD05-07-012), indicate the specific section of this document to which each comment applies, and give the reason for each comment. Please submit all comments and related material in an unbound format, no larger than 8 1/2 by 11 inches, suitable for copying. If you would like to know they reached us, please enclose a stamped, self-addressed postcard or envelope. We will consider all comments and material received during the comment period. We may change this proposed rule in view of them. Public Meeting We do not now plan to hold a public meeting. But you may submit a request for a meeting by writing to the address listed under ADDRESSES explaining why one would be beneficial. If we determine that one would aid this rulemaking, we will hold one at a time and place announced by a later notice in the **Federal Register** . Background and Purpose During the period June 7-12, 2007, the City of Norfolk and Norfolk Festevents Ltd. will sponsor “Sail Virginia 2007”, a tall ships marine event. The six-day event will include more than twenty tall ships from around the world in recognition of the Jamestown 1606-1607 voyage, commemorating the 400th anniversary of our nation's birth place. More than 25 tall ships from around the world have been invited to participate. Planned events in the Port of Hampton Roads include: The arrival of more than 20 tall ships and other vessels at Lynnhaven Anchorage on June 7 and 8, 2007; a Parade of Sail of approximately 20 tall ships and other vessels from there respective anchorages to Town Point Park, downtown Norfolk, on June 8, 2007; fireworks display adjacent to the Norfolk and Portsmouth seawalls on June 9, 2007; and the scheduled departure of the majority of vessels on June 12, 2007. This event will be combined with the annual Norfolk Harborfest held each June. The Parade of Sail event planned during this period will be conducted on the waters of the Chesapeake Bay, Hampton Roads the Elizabeth River and Norfolk Harbor, Virginia. Vessels participating in the “Tall Ships Parade of Sail” will rendezvous on June 8, 2007 in the vicinity of Thimble Shoal Channel lighted bell buoy “13” LLNR 9275 as depicted on NOAA Chart 12222 and will proceed inbound through the Elizabeth River to Norfolk Harbor Entrance Reach terminating at the Norfolk Harbor waterfront. The Coast Guard anticipates numerous spectator craft for these events. Operators should expect significant vessel congestion along the parade route and viewing areas for the fireworks display. The purpose of these regulations is to promote maritime safety and protect participants and the boating public in the Port of Hampton Roads during the “Tall Ship's Parade of Sail” event. The regulations will establish a clear parade route for the participating vessels and no wake zones along the parade route. The regulations will impact the movement of all vessels operating in the specified areas of the Port. Vessel operators are also reminded that Norfolk Naval Base will be strictly enforcing the existing restricted area defined at 33 CFR 334.300 during all Sail Virginia 2007 activities. We recommend that vessel operators visiting the Port of Hampton Roads for this event obtain up to date editions of the following charts of the area: Nos. 12222, 12245, 12253, and 12254 to avoid anchoring within charted cable or pipeline areas. With the arrival of Sail Virginia 2007 and spectator vessels in the Port of Hampton Roads for this event, it may be necessary to curtail normal port operations to some extent. Interference will be kept to the minimum considered necessary to ensure the safety of life on the navigable waters immediately before, during, and after the scheduled events. Because of the danger posed by numerous sailing vessels maneuvering in close proximity of each other during the parade, special local regulations are necessary. For the safety concerns noted and to address the need for vessel control and vessel safety, all vessel traffic will be temporarily restricted in the vicinity of the parade to provide for the safety of participants, spectators and transiting vessels. Discussion of Proposed Rule The Coast Guard proposes to establish temporary special local regulations on specified waters of Chesapeake Bay, Thimble Shoal Channel, Hampton Roads, Elizabeth River, Norfolk Harbor Reach and Norfolk waterfront. The Parade of Sail will consist of naval vessels, private vessels, and tall ships that are scheduled to enter Thimble Shoal Channel at approximately 7:30 a.m. on June 8, 2007. The ships will rendezvous at Thimble Shoal Channel in the vicinity of Thimble Shoal lighted bell buoy “13” LLNR 9275, and will proceed inbound through Thimble Shoal Channel. The lead vessel is scheduled to be abreast of Old Point Comfort Light at approximately 9:30 a.m. The parade route includes Norfolk Harbor Entrance Reach, Norfolk Harbor Reach, Craney Island Reach, Lambert Bend, Port Norfolk Reach and Town Point Reach. The larger Sail Virginia 2007 vessels will be berthed in the vicinity of the respective downtown Norfolk and Portsmouth waterfronts as they complete the parade route. A fleet of spectator vessels is anticipated to gather nearby to view the parade. Because of the danger posed by numerous sailing vessels maneuvering in close proximity of each other and the spectator vessels during the proposed marine event, special local regulations are necessary. In order to provide for the safety of parade participants and spectator vessels the Coast Guard proposes establishing a regulated area restricting all vessel traffic from maneuvering within 100 yards abeam of the parade, 300 yards ahead of the parade and all waters within the parade on June 8, 2007. The duration of the proposed Parade of Sail is anticipated to be approximately seven hours. The proposed temporary special local regulations will be enforced from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. on June 8, 2007 for the “Sail Virginia 2007” Parade of Sail. These regulations will restrict general navigation in the regulated area during the marine event. The Coast Guard, at its discretion, when practical, will allow the passage of vessels when the parade is not taking place. Except for participants and vessels authorized by the Coast Guard Patrol Commander, no person or vessel will be allowed to enter or remain in the regulated area during the enforcement period. These regulations are needed to control vessel traffic during the event to enhance the safety of participants, spectators and transiting vessels. In order to provide for the safety of vessels transiting the area or observing the fireworks display, the Coast Guard intends to implement the regulations found at 33 CFR 100.501 from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. on June 9, 2007. Regulatory Evaluation This proposed rule is not a “significant regulatory action” under section 3(f) of Executive Order 12866, Regulatory Planning and Review, and does not require an assessment of potential costs and benefits under section 6(a)(3) of that Order. The Office of Management and Budget has not reviewed it under that Order. It is not “significant” under the regulatory policies and procedures of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). We expect the economic impact of this proposed rule to be so minimal that a full Regulatory Evaluation under the regulatory policies and procedures of DHS is unnecessary. The primary impact of these regulations will be on vessels wishing to transit the affected waterways during the Parade of Sail. Although these regulations prevent traffic from transiting a portion of the Chesapeake Bay and Elizabeth River during this event, that restriction is limited to approximately seven hours in duration, affects only a limited area that is totally contained within an already established regulated navigation area, and will be well publicized to allow mariners to make alternative plans for transiting the affected area. Moreover, the nature of the event itself may hamper or prevent transit of the waterway, even absent these regulations designed to ensure it is conducted in a safe and orderly fashion. Extensive advance notifications will be made to the maritime community via Local Notice to Mariners, marine information broadcasts, area newspapers and local radio stations, so mariners can adjust their plans accordingly. Small Entities Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601-612), we have considered whether this proposed rule would have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. The term “small entities” comprises small businesses, not-for-profit organizations that are independently owned and operated and are not dominant in their fields, and governmental jurisdictions with populations of less than 50,000. The Coast Guard certifies under 5 U.S.C. 605(b) that this proposed rule would not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. This proposed rule would affect the following entities, some of which might be small entities: the owners or operators of vessels intending to operate or anchor in portions of the Chesapeake Bay, Hampton Roads, Elizabeth River, Norfolk Harbor from 7 a.m. until 3 p.m. June 8, 2007 during this event. This proposed rule would not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities for the following reasons: this proposed rule would be in effect for only a limited period, affect only limited areas that are totally contained within an already established regulated navigation area, and marine advisories will be issued allowing mariners to adjust their plans accordingly. Vessel traffic may be allowed to pass through the regulated areas with the permission of the Coast Guard Patrol Commander. In the case where the Patrol Commander authorizes passage through a regulated area during an event, vessels shall proceed at the minimum speed necessary to maintain a safe course that minimizes wake near the event. If you think that your business, organization, or governmental jurisdiction qualifies as a small entity and that this proposed rule would have a significant economic impact on it, please submit a comment (see ADDRESSES ) explaining why you think it qualifies and how and to what degree this rule would economically affect it. Assistance for Small Entities Under section 213(a) of the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996 (Pub. L. 104-121), we want to assist small entities in understanding this proposed rule so that they can better evaluate its effects on them and participate in the rulemaking. If the rule would affect your small business, organization, or governmental jurisdiction and you have questions concerning its provisions or options for compliance, please contact U.S. Coast Guard Sector Hampton Roads, at the address listed under ADDRESSES . The Coast Guard will not retaliate against small entities that question or complain about this rule or any policy or action of the Coast Guard. Collection of Information This proposed rule would call for no new collection of information under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501-3520). Federalism A rule has implications for federalism under Executive Order 13132, Federalism, if it has a substantial direct effect on State or local governments and would either preempt State law or impose a substantial direct cost of compliance on them. We have analyzed this proposed rule under that Order and have determined that it does not have implications for federalism. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act The Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (2 U.S.C. 1531-1538) requires Federal agencies to assess the effects of their discretionary regulatory actions. In particular, the Act addresses actions that may result in the expenditure by a State, local, or tribal government, in the aggregate, or by the private sector of $100,000,000 or more in any one year. Though this proposed rule would not result in such an expenditure, we do discuss the effects of this rule elsewhere in this preamble. Taking of Private Property This proposed rule would not effect a taking of private property or otherwise have taking implications under Executive Order 12630, Governmental Actions and Interference with Constitutionally Protected Property Rights. Civil Justice Reform This proposed rule meets applicable standards in sections 3(a) and 3(b)
(2)of Executive Order 12988, Civil Justice Reform, to minimize litigation, eliminate ambiguity, and reduce burden. Protection of Children We have analyzed this proposed rule under Executive Order 13045, Protection of Children from Environmental Health Risks and Safety Risks. This rule is not an economically significant rule and would not create an environmental risk to health or risk to safety that might disproportionately affect children. Indian Tribal Governments This proposed rule does not have tribal implications under Executive Order 13175, Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal Governments, because it would not have a substantial direct effect on one or more Indian tribes, on the relationship between the Federal Government and Indian tribes, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities between the Federal Government and Indian tribes. Energy Effects We have analyzed this proposed rule under Executive Order 13211, Actions Concerning Regulations That Significantly Affect Energy Supply, Distribution, or Use. We have determined that it is not a “significant energy action” under that order because it is not a “significant regulatory action” under Executive Order 12866 and is not likely to have a significant adverse effect on the supply, distribution, or use of energy. The Administrator of the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs has not designated it as a significant energy action. Therefore, it does not require a Statement of Energy Effects under Executive Order 13211. Technical Standards The National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act (NTTAA) (15 U.S.C. 272 note) directs agencies to use voluntary consensus standards in their regulatory activities unless the agency provides Congress, through the Office of Management and Budget, with an explanation of why using these standards would be inconsistent with applicable law or otherwise impractical. Voluntary consensus standards are technical standards ( *e.g.* , specifications of materials, performance, design, or operation; test methods; sampling procedures; and related management systems practices) that are developed or adopted by voluntary consensus standards bodies. This proposed rule does not use technical standards. Therefore, we did not consider the use of voluntary consensus standards. Environment We have analyzed this proposed rule under Commandant Instruction M16475.lD, and Department of Homeland Security Management Directive 5100.1 which guides the Coast Guard in complying with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969
(NEPA)(42 U.S.C. 4321-4370f), and have concluded that there are no factors in this case that would limit the use of a categorical exclusion under section 2.B.2 of the Instruction. Therefore, this rule is categorically excluded, under figure 2-1, paragraph
(34)(h), of the Instruction, from further environmental documentation. Special local regulations issued in conjunction with a regatta or marine parade permit are specifically excluded from further analysis and documentation under that section. Under figure 2-1, paragraph
(34)(h), of the Instruction, an “Environmental Analysis Check List” and a “Categorical Exclusion Determination” are not required for this rule. Comments on this section will be considered before we make the final decision on whether to categorically exclude this rule from further environmental review. List of Subjects in 33 CFR Part 100 Marine safety, Navigation (water), Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, Waterways. For the reasons discussed in the preamble, the Coast Guard proposes to amend 33 CFR part 100 as follows: PART 100—SAFETY OF LIFE ON NAVIGABLE WATERS 1. The authority citation for Part 100 is revised to read as follows: Authority: 33 U.S.C. 1233. 2. Add a temporary § 100.35-T07-012 to read as follows: § 100.35-T07-012 Special Local Regulations; Sail Virginia 2007, Port of Hampton Roads, VA.
(a)*Regulated area.* The regulated area includes navigable waters within and 100 yards abeam of, 300 yards ahead of, and all waters between participating vessels transiting the Chesapeake Bay Thimble Shoal Channel, Hampton Roads Norfolk Harbor Entrance Reach, Elizabeth River Craney Island Reach, Lambert Bend, Lambert Bend to Pinner Point, Pinner Point to Town Point Reach, Town Point Reach to Norfolk Harbor, Virginia in support of the “Sail Virginia 2007” Parade of Sail marine event.
(b)*Definitions.*
(1)*Coast Guard Patrol Commander* means any commissioned, warrant, or petty officer of the Coast Guard who has been designated by the Commander, Coast Guard Sector Hampton Roads.
(2)*Official Patrol* means any person or vessel authorized by the Coast Guard Patrol Commander or approved by Commander, Coast Guard Sector Hampton Roads to enforce this special local regulation.
(3)*Sail Virginia 2007 Vessels* includes all vessels participating in Sail Virginia 2007 under the auspices of the Marine Event Permit issued to the event sponsor and approved by Commander, Coast Guard Sector Hampton Roads.
(4)*Parade of Sail* is the inbound procession of Sail Virginia 2007 vessels as they navigate designated routes in the port of Hampton Roads on June 8, 2007.
(5)*Spectator vessel* includes any vessel, commercial or recreational, being used for pleasure or carrying passengers that are in the Port of Hampton Roads to observe part or all of the events attendant to Sail Virginia 2007.
(c)*Special local regulations.*
(1)Except for the Official Patrol, participants, and persons or vessels authorized by the Coast Guard Patrol Commander, no person or vessel may enter or remain in the regulated area.
(2)Any person in the regulated area must stop immediately when directed to do so by any Official Patrol and then proceed only as directed.
(3)All persons and vessels shall comply with the instructions of the Official Patrol.
(4)When authorized to transit within the regulated area, all vessels shall proceed at the minimum speed necessary to maintain a safe course that minimizes wake near the parade and near other persons and vessels.
(5)The Coast Guard vessels enforcing this section can be contacted on VHF-FM Marine Band Radio, Channels 13 and 16. Coast Guard Sector Hampton Roads can be contacted at telephone number
(757)638-6633.
(6)Coast Guard Sector Hampton Roads will notify the public of changes in the status of this section by Marine Safety Radio Broadcast on VHF-FM Marine Band Radio, Channel 22 (157.1 MHz).
(d)*Enforcement period.* This section will be enforced from 6 a.m. June 8, 2007, to 11 p.m. June 9, 2007. Dated: March 8, 2007. Larry L. Hereth Rear Admiral, U.S. Coast Guard, Commander, Fifth Coast Guard District. [FR Doc. E7-4937 Filed 3-16-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-15-P DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration 50 CFR Part 223 [Docket No. 070122014-7057-02, I.D. 011907A] RIN 0648-AV04 Endangered and Threatened Wildlife; Sea Turtle Conservation Requirements AGENCY: National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Commerce. ACTION: Advance notice of proposed rulemaking; extension of public comment period. SUMMARY: In response to requests from members of the public, NMFS extends the public comment period on an advance notice of proposed rulemaking
(ANPR)regarding potential amendments to regulatory requirements for turtle excluder devices
(TEDs)for an additional 60 days, through May 18, 2007, for the purpose of receiving comments on the ANPR, published in the **Federal Register** on February 15, 2007. DATES: Comments will be accepted through May 18, 2007. ADDRESSES: Written comments on the ANPR and requests for literature cited should be addressed to Michael Barnette, Southeast Regional Office, Office of Protected Resources, NMFS, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. Comments may also be sent via fax to 727-824-5309, via email to *0648-AV04@noaa.gov* , or to the Federal eRulemaking portal: *http://www.regulations.gov* (follow instructions for submitting comments). FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Michael Barnette (ph. 727-824-5312, fax 727-824-5309, e-mail *Michael.Barnette@noaa.gov* ), Ellen Keane (ph. 978-281-9300 x6526, fax 978-281-9394, e-mail *Ellen.Keane@noaa.gov* ), or Tanya Dobrzynski(ph. 301-713-2322, fax
(301)427-2522, e-mail *Tanya.Dobrzynski@noaa.gov* ). SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Background On February 15, 2007, NMFS published an ANPR regarding potential amendments to the regulatory requirements for TEDs (72 FR 7382). The ANPR announced that NMFS is considering amendments to the regulatory requirements for TEDs. Specific changes NMFS is considering include increasing the size of the TED escape opening currently required in the summer flounder fishery; requiring the use of TEDs in the flynet, whelk, calico scallop, and Mid-Atlantic sea scallop trawl fisheries; and moving the current northern boundary of the Summer Flounder Fishery-Sea Turtle Protection Area off Cape Charles, Virginia, to a point farther north. Other potential measures are also being considered. The objective of the proposed measures would be to effectively protect all life stages and species of sea turtle in Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico trawl fisheries where they are vulnerable to incidental capture and mortality. NMFS is seeking public comment on these potential amendments to the TED regulations. NMFS is also soliciting public comment on the need for, and development and implementation of, other methods to reduce bycatch of sea turtles in any commercial or recreational fishery in the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico where sea turtle conservation measures do not currently exist. That **Federal Register** notice initiated a 30-day public comment period scheduled to end on March 19, 2007. NMFS subsequently received requests from the public to extend the comment period. These requests stated that more time is necessary to more fully review and provide comments on issues mentioned in the ANPR. In this document NMFS is extending the public comment period for an additional 60 days, until May 18, 2007, to allow additional time for these requesters and other interested parties to provide comments. Dated: March 13, 2007. Samuel D. Rauch III, Deputy Assistant Administrator for Regulatory Programs, National Marine Fisheries Service. [FR Doc. E7-4884 Filed 3-16-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3510-22-P DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration 50 CFR Part 648 [I.D. 030607C] RIN 0648-AV39 Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act Provisions; Fisheries of the Northeastern United States; Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery; Amendment 13 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan AGENCY: National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Commerce. ACTION: Notice of availability of a fishery management plan amendment; request for comments. SUMMARY: NMFS announces that the New England Fishery Management Council (Council) has submitted Amendment 13 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan
(FMP)(Amendment 13), incorporating the public hearing document and the Initial Regulatory Flexibility Analysis (IRFA), for review by the Secretary of Commerce and is requesting comments from the public. The goal of Amendment 13 is to implement an observer service provider mechanism for the scallop fishery that would re-active the industry-funded observer program and the scallop total allowable catch
(TAC)and days-at-sea
(DAS)set-aside program to help defray the cost of carrying observers. Observer coverage in the scallop fishery is necessary to monitor the bycatch of finfish and interactions with threatened and endangered species. Amendment 13 specifies criteria for observer service providers, observer certification, decertification, and observer deployment logistics. Additionally, Amendment 13 allows adjustments to the observer program to be done by framework action. DATES: Comments must be received on or before May 18, 2007. ADDRESSES: Copies of Amendment 13, including the public hearing document and the IRFA, are available from Paul J. Howard, Executive Director, New England Fishery Management Council, 50 Water Street, Newburyport, MA 01950. These documents are also available online at *http://www.nefmc.org* . Amendment 13 is categorically excluded from the requirement to prepare an environmental assessment or an environmental impact statement. Written comments on Amendment 13 may be sent by any of the following methods: • E-mail to the following address: *ScallopAmendment13@noaa.gov* . Include in the subject line of the e-mail comment the following document identifier: “Comments on Scallop Amendment 13”; • Electronically through the Federal e-Rulemaking portal: *http://www.regulations.gov* ; • Mail to Patricia A. Kurkul, Regional Administrator, NMFS, Northeast Regional Office, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930. Mark the outside of the envelope “Comments on Scallop Amendment 13”; or • Fax to Patricia A. Kurkul, 978-281-9135. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Carrie Nordeen, Fishery Policy Analyst, phone 978-281-9272, fax 978-281-9135, e-mail *carrie.nordeen@noaa.gov* . SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: At its February 6-8, 2007, meeting, the Council voted to adopt Amendment 13 for submission to NMFS, and submitted the document and associated analyses on February 16, 2007. The Council held one public hearing on Amendment 13 on February 7, 2007, in Portsmouth, NH, in conjunction with the Council's February meeting. Since 1999, NMFS has required scallop vessels operating in Scallop Access Areas to pay for observer coverage. This provision operated effectively through a contractual arrangement with an observer provider until June 2004, when the Department of Commerce informed NMFS that it could not renew the contract without resolving possible conflicts with the Miscellaneous Receipts Act and policies regarding augmentation of appropriations. The contract arrangement had enabled vessel owners to pay the observer provider directly for observer deployments, with details of the observer deployment requirements specified through the contract. The expiration of the contract arrangement eliminated the mechanism allowing vessel owners to pay for observer coverage. Even though the mechanism allowing vessel owners to pay for observer coverage was inoperable, the Council continued to establish specifications for the scallop fishery that included observer set-asides (catch amounts and days-at-sea (DAS), depending on fishing area) that could be harvested on observed trips to offset the cost to the industry of observers. Observer coverage in the scallop fishery is necessary to monitor groundfish bycatch, particularly yellowtail flounder bycatch in the Scallop Access Areas within the groundfish closed areas. It is also needed to monitor interactions of the scallop fishery with sea turtles. Through fiscal year
(FY)2005, the Northeast Fisheries Science Center (NEFSC) funded the necessary levels of observer coverage in the scallop fishery to evaluate bycatch of groundfish and sea turtles by utilizing carryover funding from FY 2004. However, in FY 2006, the NEFSC's level of funding for the observer program provided for only minimal observer coverage in the scallop fishery. This meant that observer coverage would be constrained to levels less than what would be necessary for sufficient monitoring of the yellowtail flounder bycatch total allowable catch
(TAC)in Scallop Access Areas and interactions between the scallop fishery and sea turtles in the Mid-Atlantic during the June through October period. To provide for sufficient observer coverage to monitor the scallop fishery, NMFS re-activated the industry-funded observer program, wherein scallop vessels would be required to procure observer coverage from a certified observer provider, on June 16, 2006 (71 FR 34842), via emergency rule. The emergency rule was extended through June 11, 2007 (71 FR 69073, November 29, 2006). To provide for observer coverage in the scallop fishery when the Scallop Access Areas re-open on June 15, 2007, and into the future, Amendment 13 proposes to permanently re-activate the industry-funded scallop observer program implemented in 2006 via emergency rule. Like the emergency rule, Amendment 13 proposes to require scallop vessels to procure observer coverage from a NMFS-approved observer service provider. This action proposes criteria to be met in order for an entity to be approved by NMFS as an observer service provider, and proposes the requirements for certified observers for the scallop fishery. Additionally, Amendment 13 proposes to provide a framework mechanism to implement adjustments to the scallop observer program. The current Scallop FMP requires an amendment to make adjustments to the observer program. Providing for a framework mechanism in the Scallop FMP to make adjustments would allow more flexibility to improve the observer program. The type of adjustments that this action proposes to be made via a framework action are modifications to the percent of set-aside, adjustments to how the set-aside is allocated to vessels required to carry an observer, and modifications to how industry funds are collected and administered to cover the cost of observer coverage. Public comments are being solicited on Amendment 13 and its incorporated documents through the end of the comment period stated in this notice of availability. A proposed rule that would implement Amendment 13 may be published in the **Federal Register** for public comment, following NMFS's evaluation of the proposed rule under the procedures of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Management and Conservation Act. Public comments on the proposed rule must be received by the end of the comment period provided in this notice of availability of Amendment 13 to be considered in the approval/disapproval decision on the amendment. All comments received by May 18, 2007, whether specifically directed to Amendment 13 or the proposed rule, will be considered in the approval/disapproval decision on Amendment 13. Comments received after that date will not be considered in the decision to approve or disapprove Amendment 1. To be considered, comments must be received by close of business on the last day of the comment period; that does not mean postmarked or otherwise transmitted by that date. Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 *et seq.* Dated: March 13, 2007. James P. Burgess, Acting Director, Office of Sustainable Fisheries, National Marine Fisheries Service. [FR Doc. E7-4882 Filed 3-16-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3510-22-S 72 52 Monday, March 19, 2007 Notices DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request March 14, 2007. The Department of Agriculture has submitted the following information collection requirement(s) to OMB for review and clearance under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, Public Law 104-13. Comments regarding
(a)whether the collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the agency, including whether the information will have practical utility;
(b)the accuracy of the agency's estimate of burden including the validity of the methodology and assumptions used;
(c)ways to enhance the quality, utility and clarity of the information to be collected;
(d)ways to minimize the burden of the collection of information on those who are to respond, including through the use of appropriate automated, electronic, mechanical, or other technological collection techniques or other forms of information technology should be addressed to: Desk Officer for Agriculture, Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, Office of Management and Budget (OMB), *OIRA_Submission@OMB.EOP.GOV* or fax
(202)395-5806 and to Departmental Clearance Office, USDA, OCIO, Mail Stop 7602, Washington, DC 20250-7602. Comments regarding these information collections are best assured of having their full effect if received within 30 days of this notification. Copies of the submission(s) may be obtained by calling
(202)720-8681. An agency may not conduct or sponsor a collection of information unless the collection of information displays a currently valid OMB control number and the agency informs potential persons who are to respond to the collection of information that such persons are not required to respond to the collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number. Rural Housing Service *Title:* Non-Profit Customer Voluntary Survey on the Equal Treatment Rule. *OMB Control Number:* 0575-NEW. *Summary of Collection:* In accordance with the Government Performance and Results Act and Executive Order 13280, Responsibilities of the Department of Agriculture and the Agency for International Development With Respect to Faith-Based and Community Initiatives, the survey will measure Rural Development's implementation of and compliance with the Equal Treatment Rule (7 CFR part 16) as well as implement action plans and measure improvements. The 14 Rural Development programs under the Faith-Based and Community Initiatives provide insured or guaranteed loans and/or grants to eligible applicants (including non-profit entities) located in rural geographic areas to assist them in providing services to beneficiaries, low-income individuals and communities. *Need and Use of the Information:* To facilitate improved participant outcome, and in an effort to continuously improve program services, the survey can measure impediments that applicants may have encountered when they submitted an application. The outcome of the Voluntary Survey on the Equal Treatment Rule will provide the general satisfaction level among non-profit borrowers throughout the nation, highlight areas that need improvement, provide a benchmark for future surveys, and improvement in implementation of and compliance with the Equal Treatment Rule. *Description of Respondents:* Not-for-profit institutions. *Number of Respondents:* 4,000. *Frequency of Responses:* Reporting: One time. *Total Burden Hours:* 320. Charlene Parker, Departmental Information Collection Clearance Officer. [FR Doc. E7-4915 Filed 3-16-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3410-XT-P DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request March 14, 2007. The Department of Agriculture has submitted the following information collection requirement(s) to OMB for review and clearance under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, Public Law 104-13. Comments regarding
(a)whether the collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the agency, including whether the information will have practical utility;
(b)the accuracy of the agency's estimate of burden including the validity of the methodology and assumptions used;
(c)ways to enhance the quality, utility and clarity of the information to be collected;
(d)ways to minimize the burden of the collection of information on those who are to respond, including through the use of appropriate automated, electronic, mechanical, or other technological collection techniques or other forms of information technology should be addressed to: Desk Officer for Agriculture, Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, Office of Management and Budget (OMB), *OIRA_Submission@OMB.EOP.GOV* or fax
(202)395-5806 and to Departmental Clearance Office, USDA, OCIO, Mail Stop 7602, Washington, DC 20250-7602. Comments regarding these information collections are best assured of having their full effect if received within 30 days of this notification. Copies of the submission(s) may be obtained by calling
(202)720-8958. An agency may not conduct or sponsor a collection of information unless the collection of information displays a currently valid OMB control number and the agency informs potential persons who are to respond to the collection of information that such persons are not required to respond to the collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number. Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service *Title:* Cooperative Agricultural Pest Survey. *OMB Control Number:* 0579-0010. *Summary of Collection:* The Plant Protection Act (7 U.S.C. 3301 *et seq.* ) authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture, either independently or in cooperation with States, to carry out operations or measures to detect, eradicate, suppress, control, prevent, or retard the spread of plant pests and noxious weed that are new to or not yet widely distributed within the United States. The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), Plant Protection and Quarantine
(PPQ)have joined forces with the States to create a program called the Cooperative Agricultural Pest Survey. The program allows the States and PPQ to conduct surveys to detect and measure the presence of exotic plant pests and noxious weed and to enter survey data into a national computer-based system (National Agricultural Plant Information System). *Need and Use of the Information:* APHIS will collect information using PPQ Form 391 and the information from the survey to predict potential plant pest and noxious weed situations and to promptly detect and respond to the occurrence of new pests and to record the location of those pest incursions that could directly hinder the export of U.S. farm commodities. If the information were not collected, it would seriously affect APHIS ability to timely assist farmers, State personnel, and others involved in agriculture and protection of the environment from the threat pose by migratory pests. *Description of Respondents:* State, Local or tribal Government. *Number of Respondents:* 155. *Frequency of Responses:* Reporting: On occasion. *Total Burden Hours:* 3,969. Ruth Brown, Departmental Information Collection Clearance Officer. [FR Doc. E7-4919 Filed 3-16-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3410-34-P DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service [Docket No. APHIS-2007-0035] Notice of Request for Extension of Approval of an Information Collection; Low Pathogenic Avian Influenza; Voluntary Control Program and Payment of Indemnity AGENCY: Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, USDA. ACTION: Extension of approval of an information collection; comment request. SUMMARY: In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, this notice announces the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service's intention to request an extension of approval of an information collection associated with regulations for a voluntary control program for the H5/H7 subtypes of low pathogenic avian influenza in poultry and the payment of indemnity for costs associated with eradication of the disease. DATES: We will consider all comments that we receive on or before May 18, 2007. ADDRESSES: You may submit comments by either of the following methods: • *Federal eRulemaking Portal:* Go to *http://www.regulations.gov,* select “Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service” from the agency drop-down menu, then click “Submit.” In the Docket ID column, select APHIS-2007-0035 to submit or view public comments and to view supporting and related materials available electronically. Information on using Regulations.gov, including instructions for accessing documents, submitting comments, and viewing the docket after the close of the comment period, is available through the site's “User Tips” link. • *Postal Mail/Commercial Delivery:* Please send four copies of your comment (an original and three copies) to Docket No. APHIS-2007-0035, Regulatory Analysis and Development, PPD, APHIS, Station 3A-03.8, 4700 River Road Unit 118, Riverdale, MD 20737-1238. Please state that your comment refers to Docket No. APHIS-2007-0035. *Reading Room:* You may read any comments that we receive on this docket in our reading room. The reading room is located in room 1141 of the USDA South Building, 14th Street and Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC. Normal reading room hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, except holidays. To be sure someone is there to help you, please call
(202)690-2817 before coming. *Other Information:* Additional information about APHIS and its programs is available on the Internet at *http://www.aphis.usda.gov.* FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: For information on the information collection associated with the voluntary control program for subtypes H5/H7 low pathogenic avian influenza and the payment of indemnity, contact Mr. Andrew Rhorer, Senior Coordinator, Poultry Improvement Staff, National Poultry Improvement Plan, Veterinary Services, APHIS, USDA, 1498 Klondike Road, Suite 101, Conyers, GA 30094-5104;
(770)922-3496. For copies of more detailed information on the information collection, contact Mrs. Celeste Sickles, APHIS' Information Collection Coordinator, at
(301)734-7477. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: *Title:* Low Pathogenic Avian Influenza; Voluntary Control Program and Payment of Indemnity. *OMB Number:* 0579-0305. *Type of Request:* Extension of approval of an information collection. *Abstract:* The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service has authority for, among other things, administering the National Poultry Improvement Plan (NPIP), the primary purpose of which is to protect the health of the U.S. poultry population. NPIP is a Federal-State-industry cooperative program for the improvement of poultry breeding flocks and products through disease control techniques. Participation in all Plan programs is voluntary, but flocks, hatcheries, and dealers of breeding poultry must first qualify as “U.S. Pullorum-Typhoid Clean” as a condition for participation in the other Plan programs. Under the Plan, the regulations in 9 CFR part 56, “Control of H5/H7 Low Pathogenic Avian Influenza,” provide for the payment of indemnity for costs associated with the eradication of H5/H7 subtypes of low pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI). To participate in the LPAI indemnity program, poultry owners must sign a payment, appraisal, and agreement form (VS Form 1-23) and must certify as to whether any other parties hold mortgages on the flock and whether any contracts exist for the growing or care of poultry to be destroyed. In addition, the regulations in 9 CFR part 146, “National Poultry Improvement Plan for Commercial Poultry,” require for the voluntary program the use of a number of information collection and recordkeeping activities: VS Form 9-2, Flock Selecting and Testing Report; VS Form 9-4, Summary of Breeding Flock Participation; and VS Form 9-5, Report of Hatcheries, Dealers, and Independent Flocks Participating in the NPIP. We are asking the Office of Management and Budget
(OMB)to approve our use of these information collection activities for an additional 3 years. The purpose of this notice is to solicit comments from the public (as well as affected agencies) concerning our information collection. These comments will help us:
(1)Evaluate whether the collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the Agency, including whether the information will have practical utility;
(2)Evaluate the accuracy of our estimate of the burden of the information collection, including the validity of the methodology and assumptions used;
(3)Enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and
(4)Minimize the burden of the information collection on those who are to respond, through use, as appropriate, of automated, electronic, mechanical, and other collection technologies, e.g., permitting electronic submission of responses. *Estimate of burden:* The public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 0.586196963 hours per response. *Respondents:* Poultry slaughter plants and table-egg producers. *Estimated annual number of respondents:* 2,317. *Estimated annual number of responses per respondent:* 40.45446698. *Estimated annual number of responses:* 93,733. *Estimated total annual burden on respondents:* 54,946 hours. (Due to averaging, the total annual burden hours may not equal the product of the annual number of responses multiplied by the reporting burden per response.) All responses to this notice will be summarized and included in the request for OMB approval. All comments will also become a matter of public record. Done in Washington, DC, this 13th day of March 2007. Kevin Shea, Acting Administrator, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. [FR Doc. E7-4916 Filed 3-16-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3410-34-P DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service [Docket No. APHIS-2007-0011] Notice of Request for Extension of Approval of an Information Collection; Blood and Tissue Collection at Slaughtering and Rendering Establishments AGENCY: Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, USDA. ACTION: Extension of approval of an information collection; comment request. SUMMARY: In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, this notice announces the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service's intention to request an extension of approval of an information collection associated with regulations for blood and tissue collection at slaughtering and rendering establishments to enhance animal disease surveillance. DATES: We will consider all comments that we receive on or before May 18, 2007. ADDRESSES: You may submit comments by either of the following methods: • *Federal eRulemaking Portal:* Go to *http://www.regulations.gov,* select “Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service” from the agency drop-down menu, then click “Submit.” In the Docket ID column, select APHIS-2007-0011 to submit or view public comments and to view supporting and related materials available electronically. Information on using Regulations.gov, including instructions for accessing documents, submitting comments, and viewing the docket after the close of the comment period, is available through the site's “User Tips” link. • *Postal Mail/Commercial Delivery:* Please send four copies of your comment (an original and three copies) to Docket No. APHIS-2007-0011, Regulatory Analysis and Development, PPD, APHIS, Station 3A-03.8, 4700 River Road Unit 118, Riverdale, MD 20737-1238. Please state that your comment refers to Docket No. APHIS-2007-0011. *Reading Room:* You may read any comments that we receive on this docket in our reading room. The reading room is located in room 1141 of the USDA South Building, 14th Street and Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC. Normal reading room hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, except holidays. To be sure someone is there to help you, please call
(202)690-2817 before coming. *Other Information:* Additional information about APHIS and its programs is available on the Internet at *http://www.aphis.usda.gov.* FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: For information regarding an information collection associated with regulations for blood and tissue collection at slaughtering and rendering establishments, contact Dr. Adam Grow, Director, Surveillance and Identification Programs, National Center for Animal Health Programs, VS, APHIS, 4700 River Road Unit 46, Riverdale, MD 20737-1231;
(301)734-6954. For copies of more detailed information on the information collection, contact Mrs. Celeste Sickles, APHIS' Information Collection Coordinator, at
(301)734-7477. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: *Title:* Blood and Tissue Collection at Slaughtering and Rendering Establishments. *OMB Number:* 0579-0212. *Type of Request:* Extension of approval of an information collection. *Abstract:* The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), U.S. Department of Agriculture, is authorized to prevent the interstate spread of livestock diseases and for eradicating such diseases from the United States when feasible. In connection with this mission, the Veterinary Services
(VS)program, APHIS, conducts animal disease surveillance programs, including diagnostic testing. The regulations in 9 CFR, subchapter C, part 71, “General Provisions,” provide for the collection of blood and tissue samples from livestock (horses, cattle, bison, captive cervids, sheep and goats, swine, and other farmed animals) and poultry at slaughter. Persons moving livestock and poultry interstate for slaughter may only move the animals to slaughtering or rendering establishments that have been listed by the Administrator of APHIS. Federal personnel, in conjunction with establishment personnel, are required to complete a listing agreement and a facility inspection report. At APHIS' discretion, slaughtering or rendering establishment personnel will collect blood and tissue samples to assess the prevalence of disease and to identify sources of disease. The test-at-slaughter program necessitates the use of a specimen submission form, VS Form 10-4. We are asking the Office of Management and Budget
(OMB)to approve our use of these information collection activities for an additional 3 years. The purpose of this notice is to solicit comments from the public (as well as affected agencies) concerning our information collection. These comments will help us:
(1)Evaluate whether the collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the Agency, including whether the information will have practical utility;
(2)Evaluate the accuracy of our estimate of the burden of the information collection, including the validity of the methodology and assumptions used;
(3)Enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and
(4)Minimize the burden of the information collection on those who are to respond, through use, as appropriate, of automated, electronic, mechanical, and other collection technologies, e.g., permitting electronic submission of responses. *Estimate of burden:* The public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 0.3278853 hours per response. *Respondents:* Slaughtering and rendering establishment personnel. *Estimated annual number of respondents:* 155. *Estimated annual number of responses per respondent:* 83.2903. *Estimated annual number of responses:* 12,910. *Estimated total annual burden on respondents:* 4,233 hours. (Due to averaging, the total annual burden hours may not equal the product of the annual number of responses multiplied by the reporting burden per response.) All responses to this notice will be summarized and included in the request for OMB approval. All comments will also become a matter of public record. Done in Washington, DC, this 13th day of March 2007. Kevin Shea, Acting Administrator, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. [FR Doc. E7-4917 Filed 3-16-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3410-34-P DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service [Docket No. APHIS-2006-0180] Notice of Request for Extension of Approval of an Information Collection; U.S. Origin Health Certificate AGENCY: Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, USDA. ACTION: Extension of approval of an information collection; comment request. SUMMARY: In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, this notice announces the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service's intention to request an extension of approval of an information collection related to the export of animals and animal products from the United States. DATES: We will consider all comments that we receive on or before May 18, 2007. ADDRESSES: You may submit comments by either of the following methods: • *Federal eRulemaking Portal:* Go to *http://www.regulations.gov,* select “Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service” from the agency drop-down menu, then click “Submit.” In the Docket ID column, select APHIS-2006-0180 to submit or view public comments and to view supporting and related materials available electronically. Information on using Regulations.gov, including instructions for accessing documents, submitting comments, and viewing the docket after the close of the comment period, is available through the site's “User Tips” link. • *Postal Mail/Commercial Delivery:* Please send four copies of your comment (an original and three copies) to Docket No. APHIS-2006-0180, Regulatory Analysis and Development, PPD, APHIS, Station 3A-03.8, 4700 River Road Unit 118, Riverdale, MD 20737-1238. Please state that your comment refers to Docket No. APHIS-2006-0180. *Reading Room:* You may read any comments that we receive on this docket in our reading room. The reading room is located in room 1141 of the USDA South Building, 14th Street and Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC. Normal reading room hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, except holidays. To be sure someone is there to help you, please call
(202)690-2817 before coming. *Other Information:* Additional information about APHIS and its programs is available on the Internet at *http://www.aphis.usda.gov.* FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: For information on the regulations regarding the export of animals and animal products from the United States, contact Dr. Jack Taniewski, Assistant Director, Technical Trade Services Team, National Center for Import and Export, VS, APHIS, 4700 River Road Unit 39, Riverdale, MD 20737;
(301)734-8364. For copies of more detailed information on the information collection, contact Mrs. Celeste Sickles, APHIS' Information Collection Coordinator, at
(301)734-7477. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: *Title:* U.S. Origin Health Certificate. *OMB Number:* 0579-0020. *Type of Request:* Extension of approval of an information collection. *Abstract:* The export of agricultural commodities, including animals and animal products, is a major business in the United States and contributes to a favorable balance of trade. As part of its mission, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), Veterinary Services
(VS)maintains information regarding the import health requirements of other countries for animals and animal products exported from the United States. Most countries require a certification that our animals are free from specific diseases and show no clinical evidence of disease. This certification must carry the USDA seal and be endorsed by an APHIS, APHIS accredited, or State veterinarian. VS Form 17-140, U.S. Origin Health Certificate, and its continuation form, VS Form 17-140A, are used to meet this requirement. In addition, other information collection activities used for the export of animals and animal products may include: Environmental certification for export facilities; notarized statements; documentation of undue hardship for animals departing from a specific export location; requests regarding approval or withdrawal of approval of export facilities; and recordkeeping for modification of rail stanchions on vessels. We are asking the Office of Management and Budget
(OMB)to approve our use of these information collection activities for an additional 3 years. The purpose of this notice is to solicit comments from the public (as well as affected agencies) concerning our information collection. These comments will help us:
(1)Evaluate whether the collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the Agency, including whether the information will have practical utility;
(2)Evaluate the accuracy of our estimate of the burden of the information collection, including the validity of the methodology and assumptions used;
(3)Enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and
(4)Minimize the burden of the information collection on those who are to respond, through use, as appropriate, of automated, electronic, mechanical, and other collection technologies, e.g., permitting electronic submission of responses. *Estimate of burden:* The public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 0.291882 hours per response. *Respondents:* APHIS accredited and State veterinarians; animal owners; and exporters. *Estimated annual number of respondents:* 3,067. *Estimated annual number of responses per respondent:* 29.36648. *Estimated annual number of responses:* 90,067. *Estimated total annual burden on respondents:* 26,289 hours. (Due to averaging, the total annual burden hours may not equal the product of the annual number of responses multiplied by the reporting burden per response.) All responses to this notice will be summarized and included in the request for OMB approval. All comments will also become a matter of public record. Done in Washington, DC, this 13th day of March 2007. Kevin Shea, Acting Administrator, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. [FR Doc. E7-4918 Filed 3-16-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3410-34-P DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Forest Service Notice of Meeting; Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act, (Title VIII, Pub. L. 108-447) AGENCY: USDA Forest Service. ACTION: Notice of meeting. SUMMARY: The Southern Recreation Resource Advisory Committee will hold its first meeting in Atlanta, Georgia. The purpose of the meeting is to receive recommendations concerning recreation fee proposals on the George Washington & Jefferson National Forests, National Forests in Florida, National Forests in Alabama, National Forests in Mississippi, National Forest in North Carolina, Ozark-St. Francis National Forest Cherokee National Forest, and the Francis Marion & Sumter National Forest; and to discuss other items of interest related to the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act of 2004. A large part of this first meeting will be dedicated to committee orientation and organizational matters such as election of chair and crafting of by-laws. A final detailed agenda, with any additions/corrections to agenda topics, location, field trips and meeting times, will be sent to regional media sources at least 14 days before the meeting, and hard copies can also be mailed or sent via FAX. Individuals who need special assistance such as sign language interpretation or other reasonable accommodations, or who wish a hard copy of each agenda, should contact Caroline Mitchell at PO Box 1270, Hot Springs, AR 71902 no later than 10 days prior to each meeting. DATES: The meeting will be hold April 9-11, 2007. ADDRESSES: The meeting will be held at Embassy Suites Hotel, Atlanta, Georgia. Send written comments to Cheryl Chatham Designated Federal Official for the Southern Recreation RAC, US Forest Service, PO Box 1270, Hot Springs, AR 71902. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Cheryl Chatham, Designated Federal Official, US Forest Service, PO Box 1270, Hot Springs, AR 71902 or Caroline Mitchell, Committee Coordinator, US Forest Service, PO Box 1270, Hot Springs, AR 71902, by phone at 501-321-5318. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The meeting is open to the public. Committee discussion is limited to Forest Service staff and Committee members. However, persons who wish to bring recreation fee matters to the attention of the Committee may file written statements with the Committee staff before or after the meeting. A public input session will be provided and individuals who made written requests by March 30, 2007, will have the opportunity to address the Committee at the meeting. The Recreation RAC is authorized by the Federal Land Recreation Enhancement Act, which was signed into law by President Bush in December 2004. Dated: March 9, 2007. Cheryl G. Chatham, Designated Federal Officer, Southern Region. [FR Doc. 07-1309 Filed 3-16-07; 8:45 am]
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19 references not yet in our index
- 33 CFR 100
- 33 CFR 100.518
- 5 USC 601-612
- Pub. L. 104-121
- 44 USC 3501-3520
- 2 USC 1531-1538
- 42 USC 4321-4370f
- 33 USC 1233
- 33 CFR 100.527
- 33 CFR 104
- 33 CFR 125
- 50 CFR 648
- 50 CFR 223
- Pub. L. 104-13
- 7 CFR 16
- 7 USC 3301
- 9 CFR 56
- 9 CFR 146
- Pub. L. 108-447
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