Notices. Request for applications

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BILLING CODE 4184-01-M DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Coast Guard [USCG 2007-28091] Merchant Marine Personnel Advisory Committee; Vacancies AGENCY: Coast Guard, DHS. ACTION: Request for applications. SUMMARY: The Coast Guard is seeking applications for appointment to membership on the Merchant Marine Personnel Advisory Committee (MERPAC). MERPAC provides advice and makes recommendations to the Coast Guard on matters related to the training, qualification, licensing, certification, and fitness of seamen serving in the U.S. merchant marine.

DATES: Applications should reach us on or before July 1, 2007. ADDRESSES: You may request an application form by writing to Commandant (CG-3PSO-1), U.S. Coast Guard, 2100 Second Street, SW., Washington, DC 20593-0001. Please submit applications to the same address. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mr. Mark C. Gould, Assistant to the Executive Director, telephone 202-372-1409, fax 202-372-1926. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: This notice is available on the Internet at *http://dms.dot.gov/search/searchFormSimple.cfm* under the docket number [USCG-2007-28091].

The application form is also available on the Internet at *http://www.uscg.mil/hq/g-m/advisory/index.htm.* You may also obtain an application by calling Mr. Mark Gould at

(202)372-1409; by e-mailing him at *mark.c.gould@uscg.mil;* by faxing him at

(202)372-1926; or by writing him at the location in ADDRESSES above. MERPAC is chartered under the Federal Advisory Committee Act, 5 U.S.C. App. 2 (Pub. L. 92-463, 86 Stat. 770, as amended). It provides advice and makes recommendations to the Assistant Commandant for Prevention on matters of concern to seamen serving in our merchant marine, such as implementation of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978 (STCW), as amended. MERPAC normally meets twice a year, once at or near Coast Guard Headquarters, Washington, DC, and once elsewhere in the country. Its subcommittees and working groups may also meet to consider specific tasks as required. The Coast Guard will consider applications for seven positions that expire or become vacant in January 2008. It needs applicants with one or more of the following backgrounds to fill the positions:

(a)Pilot;

(b)Licensed deck officer;

(c)Licensed engineering officer;

(d)Shipping company representative;

(e)Able Bodied seaman;

(f)Marine educator not affiliated with either state or federal maritime academies; and

(g)Marine educator affiliated with the federal maritime academy. Each member serves for a term of three years. MERPAC members serve without compensation from the Federal Government; however, they do receive travel reimbursement and per diem. In support of the policy of the Department of Homeland Security on gender and ethnic diversity, the Coast Guard encourages applications from qualified women and members of minority groups. Dated: May 4, 2007. J.G. Lantz, Director of National and International Standards, Assistant Commandant for Prevention. [FR Doc. E7-9268 Filed 5-14-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-15-P DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Coast Guard [USCG-2007-27987] National Maritime Security Advisory Committee AGENCY: Coast Guard, DHS. ACTION: Committee Management: request for applicants for appointment/reappointment to the National Maritime Security Advisory Committee. SUMMARY: The Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security is requesting individuals who are interested in serving on the National Maritime Security Advisory Committee to apply for appointment/reappointment. NMSAC provides advice and makes recommendations on national maritime security matters to the Secretary of Homeland Security via the Commandant of the United States Coast Guard. DATES: Applications for membership must be sent complete and postmarked to the Coast Guard address listed below no later than 4 p.m. EDT June 29, 2007. ADDRESSES: Interested candidates may request an application form by one of the following methods: • *E-mail: NMSAC@uscg.mil* , Subject line: NMSAC Application Form Request, • *Fax:* 202-372-1905, ATTN: NMSAC DFO/EA, please provide name, mailing address and telephone and fax numbers to send application forms to. • *Mail:* Send written requests for forms and completed application packets to: USCG-NMSAC Executive Secretary, CG-3PCP-1, Room 5302, U.S. Coast Guard Headquarters, 2100 Second St., SW., Washington, DC 20593-0001, please provide name, mailing address and telephone and fax numbers to send application forms to. • *Internet:* To download a PDF or MS-Word application form visit NMSAC Web site at *http://homeport.uscg.mil/mycg/portal/ep/home.do* under Missions>Maritime Security>National Maritime Security Advisory Committee>Member Application Forms. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mr. Ike Eisentrout, Commandant (CG-3PCP-1), NMSAC Executive Secretary, U.S. Coast Guard Headquarters, Room 5302, 2100 Second St., SW., Washington, DC 20593-0001, *brian.k.eisentrout@uscg.mil* , Phone: 202-372-1119, Fax: 202-372-1905. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The National Maritime Security Advisory Committee (NMSAC) is an advisory committee established in accordance with the provisions of the Federal Advisory Committee Act 5 U.S.C. App. 2. Section 70112 to Title 46 of the U.S. Code requires the Secretary of the Department in which the Coast Guard is operating to establish a NMSAC. The NMSAC advises, consults with, reports to, and makes recommendations to the Secretary on matters relating to national maritime security. Such matters may include, but are not be limited to: • Developing a national strategy and policy to provide for efficient, coordinated and effective action to deter and minimize damage from maritime transportation security incidents; • Recommending actions required to meet current and future security threats to ports, vessels, facilities, waterways and their associated inter-modal transportation connections and critical infrastructure; • Promoting international cooperation and multilateral solutions to maritime security issues; • Addressing security issues and concerns brought to the Committee by segments of the marine transportation industry, or other port and waterway stakeholders; and, • Examining such other matters, related to those above, that the Secretary may charge the Committee with addressing. NMSAC members' terms of office will be for 5 years. For this solicitation terms will commence on January 1, 2008 and end December 31, 2010. While 46 U.S.C. 70112 states the NMSAC terminates on September 30, 2008, appointments will be made in anticipation of an extension of this statutory authority. Current members are eligible to serve an additional term of office but must re-apply in accordance with this notice. Full NMSAC (in-person) meetings are normally conducted two to three times per fiscal year. Working group meetings and teleconferences are held more frequently, as needed. While attending meetings or when otherwise engaged in committee business, members will be reimbursed for travel and per diem expenses as permitted under applicable Federal travel regulations. However, members will not receive any salary or other compensation for their service on the NMSAC. Due to the nature of NMSAC business, NMSAC members are required to apply for, obtain and maintain a government national security clearance at the Secret level. The Coast Guard will sponsor and assist candidates with this process. *Specific Qualifications:* NMSAC members are appointed in writing by the Secretary of Homeland Security. Members from the following sectors of the marine transportation industry with a minimum of five years experience in their field are encouraged to apply: • Port Operations Management/Port Authorities • Maritime Security Operations and Training • Marine Salvage Operations • Maritime Security Related Academics/Public Policy • Marine Facilities and Terminals Security Management • Vessel Owners/Operators • Maritime Labor • International and Inter-modal Supply Chain • Maritime Hazardous Materials Handling/Shipping • State and Local Government (Homeland Security, Law Enforcement, First Response) In support of the policy of the Department of Homeland Security on gender and ethnic diversity, the Coast Guard encourages applications from qualified women and members of minority groups. Members of NMSAC will be appointed and serve as Special Government Employees

(SGE)as defined in section 202(a) of title 18 United States Code and are not industry representatives. As candidates for appointment as SGEs, applicants are required to complete Confidential Financial Disclosure Reports (OGE Form 450). DHS may not release the reports or the information in them to the public except under an order issued by a Federal court or as otherwise provided under the Privacy Act (5 U.S.C. 552a). Applicants can obtain this form by going to the website of the Office of Government Ethics ( *http://www.oge.gov* ), or by contacting the individual listed above. Applications which are not accompanied by a completed OGE Form 450 will not be considered. Dated: May 4, 2007. Mark P. O'Malley, Captain, U.S. Coast Guard, Office of Port and Facility Activities. [FR Doc. E7-9244 Filed 5-14-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-15-P DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Federal Emergency Management Agency Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Collection; Comment Request AGENCY: Federal Emergency Management Agency, DHS. ACTION: Notice and request for comments. SUMMARY: The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), as part of its continuing effort to reduce paperwork and respondent burden, invites the general public and other Federal agencies to take this opportunity to comment on a proposed new information collection. In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, this notice seeks comments concerning the FEMA Public Assistance

(PA)Program Evaluation and Customer Satisfaction Survey results to measure program performance. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Executive Order 12862 requires that all Federal agencies survey their customers to determine the kind and quality of services they want and their level of satisfaction with existing services. The Government Performance and Results Act

(GPRA)requires agencies to set missions and goals, and measure performance against them. FEMA will fulfill these requirements by collecting customer satisfaction with service and program evaluation information through administration of surveys of the Disaster Assistance Directorate

(DAD)external customers. Collection of Information *Title:* FEMA PA Program Evaluation and Customer Satisfaction Survey. *Type of Information Collection:* New. *OMB Number:* 1660-NW32. *Form Number:* FF 90-152. *Abstract:* The purpose of the FEMA PA Program Evaluation and Customer Satisfaction Survey is to measure program performance against standards for performance and customer service, measure achievement of GPRA objectivities and generally gauge and make improvements to disaster services that increase customer satisfaction and program effectiveness. *Affected Public:* Business or other for-profit; Not-for-profit institutions; Farms; Federal Government; and State, local or tribal governments. *Estimated Total Annual Time Burden:* 1,920 hours. Annual Time Burden Project/activity (survey, form(s), focus group, worksheet, etc.) Number of respondents Frequency of responses Hour burden per response (hours) Annual responses Total annual hour burden (hours)

(D)= (A×B)

(E)= (C×D) PA Survey 3,200 1 0.3 3,200 960 PA Focus Groups 80 1 12.0 80 960 Total 3,280 3,280 1,920 *Estimated Cost:* There is no expected cost to the respondents. *Comments:* Written comments are solicited to

(a)Evaluate whether the proposed data collection is necessary for the proper performance of the agency, including whether the information shall have practical utility;

(b)evaluate the accuracy of the agency's estimate of the burden of the proposed collection of information, including the validity of the methodology and assumptions used;

(c)enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and

(d)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, *e.g.* , permitting electronic submission of responses. Comments must be submitted on or before July 16, 2007. ADDRESSES: Interested persons should submit written comments to Chief, Records Management and Privacy, Information Resources Management Branch, Information Technology Services Division, Federal Emergency Management Agency, 500 C Street, SW., Room 609, Washington, DC 20472. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Contact Marie O. Randle, Emergency Management Specialist, DAD-PCP, 202-646-3649 for additional information. You may contact the Records Management Branch for copies of the proposed collection of information at facsimile number

(202)646-3347 or email address: *FEMA-Information-Collections@dhs.gov* . Dated: May 3, 2007. John A. Sharetts-Sullivan, Chief, Records Management and Privacy Information Resources Management Branch, Information Technology Services Division, Federal Emergency Management Agency, Department of Homeland Security. [FR Doc. E7-9265 Filed 5-14-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 9110-23-P DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Federal Emergency Management Agency [FEMA-1693-DR] Maine; Amendment No. 2 to Notice of a Major Disaster Declaration AGENCY: Federal Emergency Management Agency, DHS. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: This notice amends the notice of a major disaster for the State of Maine (FEMA-1693-DR), dated April 25, 2007, and related determinations. EFFECTIVE DATE: April 23, 2007. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Magda Ruiz, Disaster Assistance Directorate, Federal Emergency Management Agency, Washington, DC 20472,

(202)646-2705. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Notice is hereby given that the incident period for this disaster is closed effective April 23, 2007. (The following Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Numbers

(CFDA)are to be used for reporting and drawing funds: 97.030, Community Disaster Loans; 97.031, Cora Brown Fund Program; 97.032, Crisis Counseling; 97.033, Disaster Legal Services Program; 97.034, Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA); 97.046, Fire Management Assistance; 97.048, Individuals and Households Housing; 97.049, Individuals and Households Disaster Housing Operations; 97.050, Individuals and Households Program—Other Needs; 97.036, Public Assistance Grants; 97.039, Hazard Mitigation Grant Program.) R. David Paulison, Administrator, Federal Emergency Management Agency. [FR Doc. E7-9258 Filed 5-14-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 9110-10-P DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Federal Emergency Management Agency [FEMA-1695-DR] New Hampshire; Amendment No. 1 to Notice of a Major Disaster Declaration AGENCY: Federal Emergency Management Agency, DHS. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: This notice amends the notice of a major disaster for the State of New Hampshire (FEMA-1695-DR), dated April 27, 2007, and related determinations. DATES: *Effective Date:* April 23, 2007. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Peggy Miller, Disaster Assistance Directorate, Federal Emergency Management Agency, Washington, DC 20472,

(CFDA)are to be used for reporting and drawing funds: 97.030, Community Disaster Loans; 97.031, Cora Brown Fund Program; 97.032, Crisis Counseling; 97.033, Disaster Legal Services Program; 97.034, Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA); 97.046, Fire Management Assistance; 97.048, Individuals and Households Housing; 97.049, Individuals and Households Disaster Housing Operations; 97.050, Individuals and Households Program—Other Needs; 97.036, Public Assistance Grants; 97.039, Hazard Mitigation Grant Program.) R. David Paulison, Administrator, Federal Emergency Management Agency. [FR Doc. E7-9259 Filed 5-14-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 9110-10-P DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Federal Emergency Management Agency [FEMA-1692-DR] New York; Amendment No. 1 to Notice of a Major Disaster Declaration AGENCY: Federal Emergency Management Agency, DHS. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: This notice amends the notice of a major disaster declaration for the State of New York (FEMA-1692-DR), dated April 24, 2007, and related determinations. DATES: *Effective Date:* May 3, 2007. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Magda Ruiz, Disaster Assistance Directorate, Federal Emergency Management Agency, Washington, DC 20472,

(202)646-2705. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The notice of a major disaster declaration for the State of New York is hereby amended to include the Public Assistance program for the following areas among those areas determined to have been adversely affected by the catastrophe declared a major disaster by the President in his declaration of April 24, 2007: Orange, Rockland, and Westchester Counties for Public Assistance (already designated for Individual Assistance.) Albany, Columbia, Dutchess, Essex, Greene, Putnam, Schoharie, Suffolk, and Ulster Counties for Public Assistance. Albany, Dutchess, and Richmond Counties for Individual Assistance. (The following Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Numbers

(CFDA)are to be used for reporting and drawing funds: 97.030, Community Disaster Loans; 97.031, Cora Brown Fund Program; 97.032, Crisis Counseling; 97.033, Disaster Legal Services Program; 97.034, Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA); 97.046, Fire Management Assistance; 97.048, Individuals and Households Housing; 97.049, Individuals and Households Disaster Housing Operations; 97.050, Individuals and Households Program—Other Needs; 97.036, Public Assistance Grants; 97.039, Hazard Mitigation Grant Program.) R. David Paulison, Administrator, Federal Emergency Management Agency. [FR Doc. E7-9257 Filed 5-14-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 9110-10-P DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Federal Emergency Management Agency [FEMA-1697-DR] Texas; Major Disaster and Related Determinations AGENCY: Federal Emergency Management Agency, DHS. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: This is a notice of the Presidential declaration of a major disaster for the State of Texas (FEMA-1697-DR), dated May 1, 2007, and related determinations. DATES: *Effective Date:* May 1, 2007. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Magda Ruiz, Disaster Assistance Directorate, Federal Emergency Management Agency, Washington, DC 20472,

(202)646-2705. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Notice is hereby given that, in a letter dated May 1, 2007, the President declared a major disaster under the authority of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, 42 U.S.C. 5121-5206 (the Stafford Act), as follows: I have determined that the damage in certain areas of the State of Texas resulting from severe storms and tornadoes during the period of April 21-24, 2007, is of sufficient severity and magnitude to warrant a major disaster declaration under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, 42 U.S.C. 5121-5206 (the Stafford Act). Therefore, I declare that such a major disaster exists in the State of Texas. In order to provide Federal assistance, you are hereby authorized to allocate from funds available for these purposes such amounts as you find necessary for Federal disaster assistance and administrative expenses. You are authorized to provide assistance for emergency protective measures (Category B), limited to direct Federal assistance, under the Public Assistance program and Individual Assistance in the designated areas, Hazard Mitigation throughout the State, and any other forms of assistance under the Stafford Act that you deem appropriate. Consistent with the requirement that Federal assistance be supplemental, any Federal funds provided under the Stafford Act for Public Assistance, Hazard Mitigation, and Other Needs Assistance will be limited to 75 percent of the total eligible costs. Further, you are authorized to make changes to this declaration to the extent allowable under the Stafford Act. The time period prescribed for the implementation of section 310(a), Priority to Certain Applications for Public Facility and Public Housing Assistance, 42 U.S.C. 5153, shall be for a period not to exceed six months after the date of this declaration. The Federal Emergency Management Agency

(FEMA)hereby gives notice that pursuant to the authority vested in the Administrator, under Executive Order 12148, as amended, Tony Russell, of FEMA is appointed to act as the Federal Coordinating Officer for this declared disaster. I do hereby determine the following areas of the State of Texas to have been affected adversely by this declared major disaster: Maverick, Moore, and Swisher Counties for Individual Assistance. Maverick, Moore, and Swisher Counties for Public Assistance Category B (emergency protective measures), limited to direct Federal assistance. All counties within the State of Texas are eligible to apply for assistance under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. (The following Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Numbers

(CFDA)are to be used for reporting and drawing funds: 97.030, Community Disaster Loans; 97.031, Cora Brown Fund Program; 97.032, Crisis Counseling; 97.033, Disaster Legal Services Program; 97.034, Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA); 97.046, Fire Management Assistance; 97.048, Individuals and Households Housing; 97.049, Individuals and Households Disaster Housing Operations; 97.050, Individuals and Households Program—Other Needs; 97.036, Public Assistance Grants; 97.039, Hazard Mitigation Grant Program.) R. David Paulison, Administrator, Federal Emergency Management Agency. [FR Doc. E7-9256 Filed 5-14-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 9110-10-P DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Federal Emergency Management Agency [FEMA-1696-DR] West Virginia; Major Disaster and Related Determinations AGENCY: Federal Emergency Management Agency, DHS. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: This is a notice of the Presidential declaration of a major disaster for the State of West Virginia (FEMA-1696-DR), dated May 1, 2007, and related determinations. *Effective Date:* May 1, 2007. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Magda Ruiz, Disaster Assistance Directorate, Federal Emergency Management Agency, Washington, DC 20472,

(202)646-2705. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Notice is hereby given that, in a letter dated May 1, 2007, the President declared a major disaster under the authority of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, 42 U.S.C. 5121-5206 (the Stafford Act), as follows: I have determined that the damage in certain areas of the State of West Virginia resulting from severe storms, flooding, landslides, and mudslides during the period of April 14-18, 2007, is of sufficient severity and magnitude to warrant a major disaster declaration under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, 42 U.S.C. 5121-5206 (the Stafford Act). Therefore, I declare that such a major disaster exists in the State of West Virginia. In order to provide Federal assistance, you are hereby authorized to allocate from funds available for these purposes such amounts as you find necessary for Federal disaster assistance and administrative expenses. You are authorized to provide Public Assistance in the designated areas, Hazard Mitigation throughout the State, and any other forms of assistance under the Stafford Act that you deem appropriate. Consistent with the requirement that Federal assistance be supplemental, any Federal funds provided under the Stafford Act for Public Assistance and Hazard Mitigation will be limited to 75 percent of the total eligible costs. If Other Needs Assistance under Section 408 of the Stafford Act is later requested and warranted, Federal funding under that program will also be limited to 75 percent of the total eligible costs. Further, you are authorized to make changes to this declaration to the extent allowable under the Stafford Act. The Federal Emergency Management Agency

(FEMA)hereby gives notice that pursuant to the authority vested in the Administrator, under Executive Order 12148, as amended, Thomas J. Costello, of FEMA is appointed to act as the Federal Coordinating Officer for this declared disaster. I do hereby determine the following areas of the State of West Virginia to have been affected adversely by this declared major disaster: Boone, Cabell, Lincoln, Logan, Mingo, Wayne, and Wyoming Counties for Public Assistance. All counties within the State of West Virginia are eligible to apply for assistance under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. (The following Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Numbers

(CFDA)are to be used for reporting and drawing funds: 97.030, Community Disaster Loans; 97.031, Cora Brown Fund Program; 97.032, Crisis Counseling; 97.033, Disaster Legal Services Program; 97.034, Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA); 97.046, Fire Management Assistance; 97.048, Individuals and Households Housing; 97.049, Individuals and Households Disaster Housing Operations; 97.050, Individuals and Households Program—Other Needs, 97.036, Public Assistance Grants; 97.039, Hazard Mitigation Grant Program.) R. David Paulison, Administrator, Federal Emergency Management Agency. [FR Doc. E7-9255 Filed 5-14-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 9110-10-P DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Agency Information Collection Activities: Extension of a Currently Approved Information Collection; Comment Request ACTION: 30-Day Notice of Information Collection under Review: Form N-426, Request for Certification of Military or Naval Service; OMB Control No. 1615-0053. The Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has submitted the following information collection request to the Office of Management and Budget

(OMB)for review and clearance in accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. The information collection was previously published in the **Federal Register** on March 9, 2007, at 72 FR 10780, allowing for a 60-day public comment period. No comments were received on this information collection. The purpose of this notice is to allow an additional 30 days for public comments. Comments are encouraged and will be accepted until June 14, 2007. This process is conducted in accordance with 5 CFR 1320.10. Written comments and/or suggestions regarding the item(s) contained in this notice, especially regarding the estimated public burden and associated response time, should be directed to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), USCIS, Chief, Regulatory Management Division, Clearance Office, 111 Massachusetts Avenue, 3rd floor, Washington, DC 20529. Comments may also be submitted to DHS via facsimile to 202-272-8352 or via e-mail at *rfs.regs@dhs.gov* , and to the OMB USCIS Desk Officer via facsimile at 202-395-6974 or via e-mail at *kastrich@omb.eop.gov* . When submitting comments by e-mail, please make sure to add OMB Control Number 1615-0053 in the subject box. Written comments and suggestions from the public and affected agencies should address one or more of the following four points:

(1)Evaluate whether the proposed 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 the agency's estimate of the burden of the proposed collection of information, 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 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, e.g., permitting electronic submission of responses. Overview of this information collection:

(1)*Type of Information Collection:* Extension of a currently approved collection.

(2)*Title of the Form/Collection:* Request for Certification of Military or Naval Service.

(3)*Agency form number, if any, and the applicable component of the Department of Homeland Security sponsoring the collection:* Form N-426. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

(4)*Affected public who will be asked or required to respond, as well as a brief abstract: Primary:* Individuals or Households. This form will be used by USCIS to request a verification of the military or naval service claim by an applicant filing for naturalization on the basis of honorable service in the U.S. armed forces.

(5)*An estimate of the total number of respondents and the amount of time estimated for an average respondent to respond:* 45,000 responses at 45 minutes (.75) per response.

(6)*An estimate of the total public burden (in hours) associated with the collection:* 33,750 annual burden hours. If you have additional comments, suggestions, or need a copy of the information collection instrument, please contact Richard A. Sloan, Chief, Regulatory Management Division, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, 111 Massachusetts Avenue, NW., Suite 3008, Washington, DC 20529; Telephone 202-272-8377. Dated: May 9, 2007. Richard Sloan, Chief, Regulatory Management Division, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Department of Homeland Security. [FR Doc. E7-9245 Filed 5-14-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4410-10-P DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Agency Information Collection Activities: Extension of a Currently Approved Information Collection; Comment Request ACTION: 30-Day Notice of Information Collection under Review: Form N-300, Application to File Declaration of Intention; OMB Control No. 1615-0078. The Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has submitted the following information collection request to the Office of Management and Budget

(OMB)for review and clearance in accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. The information collection was previously published in the **Federal Register** on March 9, 2007, at 72 FR 10780 allowing for a 60-day public comment period. No comments were received on this information collection. The purpose of this notice is to allow an additional 30 days for public comments. Comments are encouraged and will be accepted until June 14, 2007. This process is conducted in accordance with 5 CFR 1320.10. Written comments and/or suggestions regarding the item(s) contained in this notice, especially regarding the estimated public burden and associated response time, should be directed to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), USCIS, Chief, Regulatory Management Division, Clearance Office, 111 Massachusetts Avenue, 3rd floor, Washington, DC 20529. Comments may also be submitted to DHS via facsimile to 202-272-8352 or via e-mail at *rfs.regs@dhs.gov* , and to the OMB USCIS Desk Officer via facsimile at 202-395-6974 or via e-mail at *kastrich@omb.eop.gov* . When submitting comments by e-mail please make sure to add OMB Control Number 1615-0078 in the subject box. Written comments and suggestions from the public and affected agencies should address one or more of the following four points:

(1)Evaluate whether the proposed 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 the agency's estimate of the burden of the proposed collection of information, including the validity of the methodology and assumptions used;

(3)Enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and

(1)*Type of Information Collection:* Extension of a currently approved collection.

(2)*Title of the Form/Collection:* Application to File Declaration of Intention.

(3)*Agency form number, if any, and the applicable component of the Department of Homeland Security sponsoring the collection:* Form N-300. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

(4)*Affected public who will be asked or required to respond, as well as a brief abstract: Primary:* Individuals or Households. This form will be used by permanent residents to file a declaration of intention to become a citizen of the United States. This collection is also used to satisfy documentary requirements for those seeking to work in certain occupations or professions, or to obtain various licenses.

(5)*An estimate of the total number of respondents and the amount of time estimated for an average respondent to respond:* 433 responses at 45 minutes (.75) per response.

(6)*An estimate of the total public burden (in hours) associated with the collection:* 325 annual burden hours. If you have additional comments, suggestions, or need a copy of the information collection instrument, please contact Richard A. Sloan, Chief, Regulatory Management Division, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, 111 Massachusetts Avenue, NW., Suite 3008, Washington, DC 20529; Telephone 202-272-8377. Dated: May 9, 2007. Richard Sloan, Chief, Regulatory Management Division, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Department of Homeland Security. [FR Doc. E7-9247 Filed 5-14-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4410-10-P DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR Office of the Secretary Statement of Findings: Snake River Water Rights Act of 2004 AGENCY: Office of the Secretary, Interior. ACTION: Notice of Statement of Findings in accordance with Public Law 108-447. SUMMARY: The Secretary of the Interior is causing this notice to be published as required by section 10(a)(5) of the Snake River Water Rights Act of 2004 (Settlement Act), Public Law 108-447, Division J, Title X, 118 Stat. 3431, 3438-39. The publication of this notice causes the waivers and releases of certain claims to become effective as required by the Settlement Act. EFFECTIVE DATE: In accordance with section 10(a)(5) of the Settlement Act, the waivers and releases of claims described in section 10(a) of the Settlement Act are effective on May 15, 2007. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Address all comments and requests for additional information to Duane Mecham, Chair, Nez Perce Water Rights Settlement Federal Implementation Team, Office of the Regional Solicitor, Department of the Interior, 500 NE Multnomah Street, Suite 607, Portland, OR 97232.

(503)231-6299. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: On April 20, 2004, the United States, State of Idaho (State), and Nez Perce Tribe (Tribe) submitted a document entitled Mediator's Term Sheet (Agreement) to the Snake River Basin Adjudication Court (SRBA Court) in SRBA Consolidated Subcase 03-10022 and SRBA Consolidated Subcase 67-13701. The Agreement established the basis to resolve all of the Tribe's on-reservation and fisheries water right claims in the Snake River basin in Idaho. It also provided innovative and collaborative solutions for providing additional and protected flows for Snake River salmon runs protected under the Endangered Species Act without disrupting other uses for the water. Finally, the Agreement forged an increased role for the Tribe in the management of its water and other natural resources. On December 8, 2004, the Settlement Act was enacted into law to implement the Agreement. Section 10(a)(5) of the Settlement Act required, in order to make effective certain waivers and releases of claims, that the Secretary publish in the **Federal Register** a statement of findings that the actions set forth in section IV.L of the Agreement:

(A)Have been completed, including issuance of a judgment and decree by the SRBA Court from which no further appeal may be taken; and

(B)have been determined by the United States on behalf of the Tribe and the allottees, the Tribe, and the State to be consistent in all material aspects with the Agreement. Section IV.L of the Agreement required:

(1)Execution of all documents that comprise the settlement agreement;

(2)Congressional approval and authorization of all Federal expenditures;

(3)State legislative approval and enactment of all required State legislation;

(4)Tribal approval;

(5)SRBA Court entry of judgment and decree incorporating the agreement; and

(6)issuance of biological opinions anticipated by the upper Snake component of the Agreement. Statement of Findings As required by section 10(a)(5)(A) of the Settlement Act and as required by section IV.L of the Agreement, I find on behalf of the Secretary as follows: 1. The parties executed all necessary component documents that make up the settlement agreement as required in section IV.L of the Agreement. 2. As part of Public Law 108-447, Congress approved the Agreement and authorized all Federal expenditures required by the Agreement. 3. Pursuant to Idaho House of Representatives Bills 152, 153, 154 and 399, 2005 Idaho Session Laws chapters 148-150 and 400, the State's legislature enacted the required State legislation and approved the Agreement. 4. By adoption of Resolution No. 05-210, the Nez Perce Tribal Executive Committee approved the Agreement for the Tribe. 5. On January 30, 2007, the SRBA Court issued a Consent Decree and Final Partial Decrees, including springs and fountains partial decrees, negotiated agreements regarding on-reservation claims, and in-stream flows to the Idaho Water Resources Board, and no further appeal may be taken. 6. The National Marine Fisheries Service and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service have issued the biological opinions anticipated by the upper Snake component of the Agreement. As required by section 10(a)(5)(B) of the Settlement Act, I find on behalf of the Secretary as follows: a. The United States on behalf of the Tribe and the allottees has determined that all actions required in section IV.L of the Agreement have been completed consistent in all material aspects with the Agreement. b. The Governor of Idaho, by Proclamation signed pursuant to Idaho House of Representatives Bill 152, Section 4, in 2005 Idaho Session Laws, Chapter 148, has certified and determined that all actions required in section IV.L of the Agreement have been completed consistent in all material aspects with the Agreement. c. The Chairman and Secretary of the Nez Perce Tribal Executive Committee, pursuant to the Nez Perce Tribal Executive Committee Resolution No. 05-210, has provided written certification to the Nez Perce Tribal Executive Committee and has determined that all actions required in section IV.L of the Agreement have been completed consistent in all material aspects with the Agreement. Dated: April 29, 2007. Carl J. Artman, Assistant Secretary of Indian Affairs. [FR Doc. E7-9332 Filed 5-14-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4310-W7-P DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR Fish and Wildlife Service Bowdoin National Wildlife Refuge Complex, Malta, MT AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior. ACTION: Notice of intent to prepare a comprehensive conservation plan and environmental assessment; request for comments. SUMMARY: We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service, we) intend to gather information necessary to prepare a comprehensive conservation plan

(CCP)and associated environmental documents for Bowdoin National Wildlife Refuge

(NWR)Complex (Complex) in Malta, Montana. This Complex includes the Bowdoin, Black Coulee, Creedman Coulee, Hewitt Lake, and Lake Thibadeau NWRs. It also includes the Wetland Management District

(WMD)comprised of seven waterfowl production areas and thousands of acres of wetland, grassland, and conservation easements on private lands. We furnish this notice in compliance with our CCP policy to advise other agencies and the public of our intentions, and to obtain suggestions and information on the scope of issues to be considered in the planning process. DATES: To ensure consideration, we must receive your written comments by June 14, 2007. ADDRESSES: Send your comments or requests for more information to Laura King, Planning Team Leader, Tewaukon NWR, Division of Refuge Planning, 9754 143 1/2 Avenue, SE., Cayuga, North Dakota 58013-9764. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Laura King, 701-724-3598, or John Esperance, 303-236-4369. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: With this notice, the Service initiates a CCP for the Bowdoin NWR Complex in Malta, Montana. Background The CCP Process The National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act of 1966, as amended by the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of 1997 (16 U.S.C. 668dd-668ee), requires the Service to develop a CCP for each national wildlife refuge. The purpose in developing a CCP is to provide refuge managers with a 15-year strategy for achieving refuge purposes and contributing toward the mission of the National Wildlife Refuge System, consistent with sound principles of fish and wildlife management, conservation, legal mandates, and Service policies. In addition to outlining broad management direction on conserving wildlife and their habitats, CCPs identify wildlife-dependent recreational opportunities available to the public, including opportunities for hunting, fishing, wildlife observation, wildlife photography, and environmental education and interpretation. The Service established each unit of the National Wildlife Refuge System, including those for the Complex with specific purposes. We use these purposes to develop and prioritize management goals and objectives within the National Wildlife Refuge System mission, and to guide which public uses will occur on these NWRs. The planning process is a way for the Service and the public to evaluate management goals and objectives for the best possible conservation efforts of this important wildlife habitat, while providing for wildlife-dependent recreation opportunities that are compatible with each NWR and the mission of the National Wildlife Refuge System. The Service will conduct a comprehensive conservation planning process that will provide opportunity for Tribal, State, and local governments; agencies; organizations; and the public to participate in issue scoping and public comment. We request input for issues, concerns, ideas, and suggestions for the future management of these NWRs and the WMD in Montana. We invite anyone interested to respond to the following two questions.

(1)What problems or issues do you want to see addressed in the CCP?

(2)What improvements would you recommend for these five NWRs and one WMD? We have provided the above questions for your optional use; you are not required to provide information to us. The planning team developed these questions to gather information about individual issues and ideas concerning these NWRs and the WMD. Our planning team will use the comments it receives as part of the planning process; however, we will not reference individual comments in our reports or directly respond to them. We will also give the public an opportunity to provide input at an open house to scope issues and concerns. You can obtain the schedule from the planning team leader (see ADDRESSES ). You may also submit comments anytime during the planning process by writing to the above address. All information provided voluntarily by mail, phone, or at public meetings becomes part of our official public record (i.e., names, addresses, letters of comment, input recorded during meetings). If a private citizen or organization requests this information under the Freedom of Information Act, we may provide informational copies. The Service will conduct the environmental review of this project in accordance with the requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act

(NEPA)of 1969, as amended (42 U.S.C. 4321 *et seq.* ); NEPA Regulations (40 CFR parts 1500-1508); other appropriate Federal laws and regulations; and our policies and procedures for compliance with those regulations. All comments we receive from individuals on our environmental assessments and environmental impact statements become part of the official public record. We will handle requests for such comments in accordance with the Freedom of Information Act, NEPA (40 CFR 1506.6(f)), and other Departmental and Service policies and procedures. Bowdoin NWR Complex This Complex encompasses 75,521 acres, of which 49,260 acres are designated as easements. The Complex lies in the short and mixed-grass prairie region of north-central Montana and has both saline and freshwater wetlands which provide habitat for thousands of migrating waterfowl and shorebirds, including the endangered piping plover. Each refuge has various establishing purposes. Bowdoin NWR was established:

(1)“* * * as a refuge and breeding ground for migratory birds and other wildlife.”;

(2)“* * * and that such part of said lands as the Secretary of Agriculture may deem proper be reserved for use as a shooting area to be operated under a cooperative agreement or lease with the Montana State Game Commission or such other operating agency as may be approved.”;

(3)“The reservation of these lands as a migratory waterfowl refuge is subject to the use thereof by [the Department of Interior] for irrigation and other incidental purposes * * *” and

(4)“* * * for any other management purpose, for migratory birds.” Black Coulee, Creedman Coulee, and Lake Thibadeau NWRs were established for:

(1)“* * * water conservation, drought relief, and migratory bird and wildlife conservation purposes * * * wildlife conservation demonstration unit and closed refuge * * *”; and

(2)“* * * as a refuge and breeding ground for migratory birds and other wildlife * * *”; and Hewitt Lake NWR was established for:

(1)“* * * water conservation, drought relief, stock water, and migratory waterfowl and wildlife conservation purposes * * * and maintain a closed refuge * * * wildlife conservation demonstration unit and closed refuge * * *”;

(2)“* * * water conservation, drought relief, and migratory bird and wildlife conservation purposes * * * wildlife conservation demonstration unit and closed refuge * * *”;

(3)“* * * as a refuge and breeding ground for migratory birds and other wildlife * * * nothing herein shall affect the disposition of the oil and gas deposits therein * * *”;

(4)“* * * purposes of land-conservation and land utilization program * * *”;

(5)“* * * for use and administration under applicable laws as refuges for migratory and other wildlife.” Bowdoin WMD was established:

(1)“as Waterfowl Production Areas subject to * * * all of the provisions of such Act [Migratory Bird Conservation Act] * * * except the inviolate sanctuary provisions * * *”; and

(2)“* * * for any other management purpose, for migratory birds.” Dated: March 30, 2007. Elliott Sutta, Acting Regional Director, Region 6, Denver, Colorado. [FR Doc. E7-9280 Filed 5-14-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4310-55-P DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR Fish and Wildlife Service Kanuti National Wildlife Refuge, Alaska AGENCY: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior. ACTION: Notice of Availability of the Draft Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Assessment for Kanuti National Wildlife Refuge; request for comments; announcement of public meetings. SUMMARY: We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service, we) announce that the Draft Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan

(CCP)and Environmental Assessment

(EA)for the Kanuti National Wildlife Refuge is available for public comment. We prepared this CCP pursuant to the Alaska National Interests Land Conservation Act of 1980 (ANILCA), the National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act of 1966 (Refuge Administration Act), as amended by the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of 1997 (Refuge Improvement Act), and the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA). In this plan, we describe how the Service proposes to manage this refuge over the next 15 years. DATES: We must receive your comments on or before July 16, 2007. ADDRESSES: To provide written comments or to request a paper copy or compact disk of the Draft CCP/EA, contact: Peter Wikoff, Planning Team Leader, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 1011 East Tudor Rd., MS. 231, Anchorage, Alaska 99503, or at *fw7_kanuti_planning@fws.gov,* or at 907-786-3837. You may view or download a copy of the Draft CCP/EA at: *http://www.r7.fws.gov/nwr/planning/plans.htm.* Copies of the Draft CCP/EA may be viewed at the Kanuti Refuge Office in Fairbanks, Alaska; at local libraries; and at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Regional Office in Anchorage, Alaska. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Peter Wikoff at the above address. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act of 1966, as amended by the Refuge Improvement Act of 1997 (16 U.S.C. 668dd *et seq.* ), requires each refuge to develop and implement a CCP. The purpose of developing CCPs is to provide refuge managers with a 15-year strategy for achieving refuge purposes and contributing toward the mission of the National Wildlife Refuge System, consistent with sound principles of fish and wildlife science, conservation, legal mandates, and Service policies. In addition to outlining broad management direction on conserving wildlife and their habitats, the CCPs identify wildlife-dependent recreational opportunities available to the public, including opportunities for hunting, fishing, wildlife observation and photography, and environmental education and interpretation. We will review and update these CCPs at least every 15 years. The original CCP for the Kanuti Refuge was approved in 1987. After reviewing that plan, we decided to revise it to comply with current policies and to provide more complete management direction. *Background:* The Kanuti National Wildlife Refuge was established on December 2, 1980 by ANILCA. The purposes for which the Kanuti National Wildlife Refuge was established include: 1. To conserve fish and wildlife populations and habitats in their natural diversity including, but not limited to, white-fronted geese and other waterfowl and migratory birds, moose, caribou (including participation in coordinated ecological studies and management of the Western Arctic caribou herd), and furbearers; 2. to fulfill the international treaty obligations of the United States with respect to fish and wildlife and their habitats; 3. to provide, in a manner consistent with the purposes set forth in 1 and 2 above, the opportunity for continued subsistence uses by local residents; and 4. to ensure, to the maximum extent practicable and in a manner consistent with the purposes set forth in 1 above, water quality and necessary water quantity within the refuge. The refuge is roadless and lies on the Arctic Circle about 150 miles northwest of Fairbanks. It is situated in a broad basin formed by the Koyukuk and Kanuti rivers between the Brooks Range and the Ray Mountains. The Dalton Highway and Alyeska pipeline lie within eight miles of its eastern boundary. The refuge consists of nearly 1.3 million acres of Federal lands within an external boundary that encompasses approximately 1.6 million acres of Federal, State, and private lands. The landscape consists primarily of rolling hills, wetlands, ponds, and streams. Elevations range from 500 feet to over 3,000 feet. The major natural resources are wildlife, fisheries, and their associated habitats. *Issues and Alternatives:* Conservation of the natural, unaltered character of the refuge: During scoping, many people expressed a desire that the refuge remain in a natural, wild state. They wanted minimal intrusion on natural systems and for the refuge to remain wild for the future. This was true for people from both urban and rural backgrounds. The Kanuti Refuge is one of the few refuges in Alaska that is both roadless and without permanent villages or towns. These characteristics help to maintain the natural wild state with minimal intrusion that people expressed a desire for during the scoping process. Acceptance and integration of new management policies and guidelines for refuges in Alaska into the plan: Management of refuges in Alaska is governed by Federal law including ANILCA and the Refuge Administration Act as amended by the Refuge Improvement Act, by regulations implementing these laws, by intergovernmental treaties, by Service policies, and by principles of sound resource management, all of which establish standards for resource management or limit the range of potential activities that may be allowed on refuges. Management policies and guidelines, described in the plan, were developed as part of the region-wide refuge comprehensive planning effort and provide direction for National Wildlife Refuges in the Alaska Region of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. These policies and guidelines would be applied to the Kanuti National Wildlife Refuge. Management categories (wilderness, wild rivers, minimal, moderate, and intensive) are used to describe management levels throughout the refuges in Alaska. A management category is a set of refuge management directions applied to an area, in light of its resources and existing and potential uses, to facilitate management and the accomplishment of refuge purposes and goals. Two management categories, moderate and minimal, apply to the Kanuti Refuge. Three alternatives for management of the refuge are evaluated in the EA. Alternative A (the no-action alternative) is required by NEPA, describes what would happen under continuation of current management activities, and serves as a baseline against which to compare other alternatives. Under this alternative, management of the refuge would continue to follow the current course of action. Private and commercial uses of the refuge would be likely unchanged. Currently 33 percent of the refuge is in Moderate Management and 67 percent of the Refuge is in Minimal Management. When the original plan was developed in 1987 two areas of Moderate Management were delineated, roughly corresponding to two major river drainages within the refuge. This was to allow more intensive habitat management activities to occur (e.g. water level management and mechanical manipulation of habitat). Though originally thought to be important to enhance the abundance of subsistence resources, subsequent studies showed that this level of manipulation was not needed. That aspect of the plan was never implemented. Alternative A would continue to protect and maintain the existing wildlife values, natural diversity, and ecological integrity of the refuge. Human disturbances to fish and wildlife habitats and populations would be minimal except, potentially, in Moderate Management areas. Public uses of the refuge employing existing access methods would continue to be allowed. Opportunities to pursue traditional subsistence activities, and recreational hunting, fishing, and other wildlife-dependent activities, would be maintained. Opportunities to pursue research would be maintained. Alternative B would convert all refuge lands now in Moderate Management to Minimal Management and incorporate the new policies and guidelines for refuges in Alaska. Management of the refuge would generally continue to follow the current course of action but would adopt a vision statement and set of goals developed in response to public scoping, that would implement low impact management. Alternative B was designed to maintain the natural, unaltered character and ecological integrity of the refuge with little evidence of human-caused change. Disturbance to resources as a result of public uses, economic activities, and facilities would be minimized. Habitats would be allowed to change and function through natural processes. Because activities that could have been allowed under Moderate Management in the 1987 Plan were never implemented, the public would see little or no change under Alternative B despite the removal of areas from the Moderate Management category. Alternative C (the preferred alternative) would convert a portion of the refuge lands now in Moderate Management, in the center of the refuge, to Minimal Management and would incorporate the new policies and guidelines for refuges in Alaska. With this change, 85 percent of the refuge would be in Minimal Management and 15 percent of the refuge would remain in Moderate Management. The areas remaining in Moderate Management are adjacent to private lands near the Koyukuk River in the northwestern portion of the refuge. Management activities would generally continue as with Alternative A. Lands in Minimal Management would be managed to maintain their natural unaltered character and ecological integrity with little evidence of human-caused change. Moderate Management could allow some small-scale changes in the environment that do not disrupt natural processes. Though there may be signs of human activity, the natural landscape would remain the dominant feature. Moderate Management would allow more habitat manipulation than would Minimal Management, and permanent facilities may be constructed. It was anticipated that this flexibility may be needed due to the proximity of these areas to private lands, the river, and overland transportation routes. *Public availability of comments:* Before including your name, address, phone number, e-mail address, or other personal identifying information in your comment, you should be aware that your entire comment—including your personal identifying information—may be made publicly available at any time. While you can ask us in your comment to withhold your personal identifying information from public review, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to do so. Dated: May 8, 2007. Thomas O. Melius, Regional Director, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Anchorage, Alaska. [FR Doc. E7-9281 Filed 5-14-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4310-55-P DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR Fish and Wildlife Service Lake Andes National Wildlife Refuge Complex, South Dakota AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior. ACTION: Notice of intent to prepare comprehensive conservation plan and environmental assessment; request for comments. SUMMARY: This notice advises that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) intends to gather information necessary to prepare a comprehensive conservation plan

(CCP)and associated environmental documents for the Lake Andes National Wildlife Refuge Complex (Complex), South Dakota. The Service is furnishing this notice in compliance with Service CCP policy to advise other agencies and the public of its intentions and to obtain suggestions and information on the scope of issues to be considered in the planning process. DATES: Written comments should be received by June 14, 2007. ADDRESSES: Comments and requests for more information regarding the Complex should be sent to Bernardo Garza, Planning Team Leader, Division of Refuge Planning, 134 Union Boulevard, Suite 300, Lakewood, CO 80228. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Bernardo Garza, 303-236-4377, or John F. Esperance, 303-236-4369. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The Service has initiated the CCP for the Complex with headquarters in Lake Andes, South Dakota. Each unit of the National Wildlife Refuge System, including this Complex, has specific purposes for which it was established. Those purposes are used to develop and prioritize management goals and objectives within the National Wildlife Refuge System mission and to guide which public uses will occur on the Complex. The planning process is a way for the Service and the public to evaluate management goals and objectives for the best possible conservation efforts of this important wildlife habitat, while providing for wildlife-dependent recreation opportunities that are compatible with each national wildlife refuge and wetland management district's establishing purposes and the mission of the National Wildlife Refuge System. The Complex is made up of three separate entities: Lake Andes National Wildlife Refuge (NWR), Lake Andes Wetland Management District (WMD), and Karl E. Mundt NWR. Lake Andes NWR was established in 1936 to preserve an important piece of habitat for waterfowl and other water birds. The Lake Andes WMD was formed in the 1960s to protect wetland and grassland habitat that is critical to our nation's duck population. In 1967, the Service identified an area that was supporting almost 300 endangered bald eagles each winter; this area became the Karl E. Mundt NWR. Hunting and wildlife observation are the two most prevalent public uses on the Complex. The Service will conduct a comprehensive conservation planning process that will provide opportunity for Tribal, State, and local governments; agencies; organizations; and the public to participate in issue scoping and public comment. The Service is requesting input for issues, concerns, ideas, and suggestions for the future management of the Complex. Anyone interested in providing input is invited to respond to the following questions.

(1)What problems or issues do you want to see addressed in the CCP?

(2)What improvements would you recommend for the Complex? The Service has provided the above questions for your optional use; you are not required to provide information to the Service. The planning team developed these questions to facilitate finding out more information about individual issues and ideas concerning these three units of the National Wildlife Refuge System. Comments received by the planning team will be used as part of the planning process; individual comments will not be referenced in our reports or responded to directly. An opportunity will be given to the public to provide input at open houses to scope issues and concerns (schedules can be obtained from the planning team leader at the above address). Comments may also be submitted anytime during the planning process by writing to the above address. All information provided voluntarily by mail, phone, or at public meetings becomes part of the official public record (i.e., names, addresses, letters of comment, input recorded during meetings). If requested under the Freedom of Information Act by a private citizen or organization, the Service may provide informational copies. The environmental review of this project will be conducted in accordance with the requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act

(NEPA)of 1969, as amended (42 U.S.C. 4321 *et seq.* ); NEPA Regulations (40 CFR parts 1500-1508); other appropriate Federal laws and regulations; and Service policies and procedures for compliance with those regulations. All comments received from individuals on Service Environmental Assessments and Environmental Impact Statements become part of the official public record. Requests for such comments will be handled in accordance with the Freedom of Information Act, NEPA (40 CFR 1506.6(f)), and other Departmental and Service policies and procedures. Dated: September 19, 2006. James J. Slack, Deputy Regional Director, Region 6, Denver, Colorado. Editorial Note: This document was received at the Office of the Federal Register on May 10, 2007. [FR Doc. E7-9278 Filed 5-14-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4310-55-P DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR Fish and Wildlife Service Yukon Delta National Wildlife Refuge, Alaska AGENCY: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior. ACTION: Notice of intent to revise the comprehensive conservation plan and prepare an environmental impact statement for Yukon Delta National Wildlife Refuge. SUMMARY: We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service, we), will be developing a revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan

(CCP)and Environmental Impact Statement

(EIS)for Yukon Delta National Wildlife Refuge (Refuge). We will use local announcements, special mailings, newspaper articles, the Internet, and other media announcements to inform people of opportunities to provide input throughout the planning process. We will hold public meetings in communities within the Refuge during preparation of the revised plan. We will visit each of the 36 occupied communities within the Refuge boundary as we revise this plan. DATES: Please provide written comments on the scope of the CCP revision by January 31, 2008. ADDRESSES: Address comments, questions, and requests for further information to: Peter Wikoff, Planning Team Leader, Division of Conservation Planning and Policy, 1011 East Tudor Rd., MS-231, Anchorage, AK 99503. Comments may be faxed to

(907)786-3965, or sent via electronic mail to *YukonDelta_planning@fws.gov.* Additional information about the Refuge is available on the Internet at: *http://alaska.fws.gov/nwr/planning/ydpol.htm.* FOR FUTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Peter Wikoff, Planning Team Leader, phone

(907)786-3837 or Mikel Haase, Planning Team Leader, phone

(907)786-3402. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Established by the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (94 Stat. 2371) in 1980 (ANILCA), Yukon Delta National Wildlife Refuge is the second largest Refuge in the National Wildlife Refuge System. Stretching east for 300 miles from Nunivak Island in the Bering Sea to the village of Aniak, the Refuge spans more than 19 million acres. The two largest rivers in Alaska, the Yukon and the Kuskokwim, flow through the Refuge creating a delta which covers about 70% of the Refuge. This broad, flat area is less than 100 feet in elevation and covered by countless lakes and ponds. Flooding is common along rivers and lowlands. Wetlands, lakes, ponds, streams, inlets, bays, and coastal areas support an extremely varied community of fish and wildlife including one of the largest aggregations of water birds in North America. Each year over one million ducks, half a million geese and millions of shorebirds use the Refuge for both breeding and staging. The Refuge is also home to significant salmon fisheries. Thirty-six occupied communities lie within the Refuge boundaries. Alaskan Native peoples have occupied the region for close to 10,000 years and their lives and culture are intertwined with the Refuge. Local Native corporations own vast tracts of lands within the Refuge. Refuge purposes include:

(1)Conserving fish and wildlife populations and habitats in their natural diversity, including, but not limited to, shorebirds, seabirds, whistling swans, emperor, white-fronted and Canada geese, black brant and other migratory birds, salmon, muskox, and marine mammals;

(2)fulfilling international treaty obligations of the United States with respect to fish and wildlife and their habitats;

(3)providing, in a manner consistent with purposes

(1)and

(2)above, the opportunity for continued subsistence use by local residents; and

(4)ensuring, to the maximum extent practicable and in a manner consistent with purpose

(1)above, water quality and necessary water quantity within the Refuge. We furnish this notice in accordance with the ANILCA, the National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act as amended by the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of 1997 (16 U.S. C. 668dd-688ee), the regulations implementing the National Environmental Policy Act (40 CFR 1500-1508), and Service policies. These laws and policies require all lands within the National Wildlife Refuge System to be managed in accordance with an approved CCP which articulates a 15 year plan for managing a Refuge and identifies Refuge goals and objectives. During the CCP process, we will consider many elements, including:

(1)Conservation of the Refuge's fish and wildlife populations and habitats in their natural diversity;

(2)facilitation of subsistence use by local residents;

(3)access for traditional activities; and

(4)conservation of resource values, including cultural resources, wilderness, and rivers. The final revised CCP will detail programs, activities, and measures necessary to best administer the Refuge to protect these values and fulfill Refuge purposes over the next 15 years. Until the revised CCP is completed, management will continue to be guided by the original CCP, Federal legislation regarding management of National Wildlife Refuges, and other legal, regulatory, and policy guidance. The original CCP was approved in 1988. Public Involvement We plan to hold public involvement activities in communities within the Refuge. We plan to visit every one of the occupied villages within the Refuge at least once during plan revision. With appropriate advance notice, scoping meetings will be held between October 15, 2007, and the end of February 2008, as weather and other conditions permit. We will also be accepting comments via mail, e-mail, telephone, and through personal contacts throughout the planning process. Public Availability of Comments Before including your name, address, phone number, e-mail address, or other personal identifying information in your comment, you should be aware that your entire comment—including your personal identifying information—may be made publicly available at any time. While you can ask us in your comment to withhold your personal identifying information from public review, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to do so. Dated: May 8, 2007. Thomas O. Melius, Regional Director, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Anchorage, Alaska. [FR Doc. E7-9285 Filed 5-14-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4310-55-P DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR Fish and Wildlife Service Endangered and Threatened Species Permit Applications AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior. ACTION: Notice of availability of permit applications; request for comments. SUMMARY: The following applicant has applied for a permit to conduct certain activities with endangered species. DATES: We must receive any written comments on or before June 14, 2007. ADDRESSES: Regional Director, Attn: Peter Fasbender, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Ecological Services, 1 Federal Drive, Fort Snelling, MN 55111-4056. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mr. Peter Fasbender,

(612)713-5343. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Endangered Species The Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.) (Act), with some exceptions, prohibits activities affecting endangered species unless authorized by a permit from the Service. Before issuing a permit, we invite public comment on it. Accordingly, we invite public comment on the following applicant's permit application for certain activities with endangered species authorized by section 10(a)(1)(A) of the Act and the regulations governing the taking of endangered species (50 CFR part 17). Submit your written data, comments, or requests for copies of the complete applications to the address shown in ADDRESSES . Permit Number: TE049738 *Applicant:* Third Rock Consultants, Lexington, Kentucky. The applicant requests a permit amendment to take listed fish, mussel, and bat species throughout New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia. The applicant also requests to take the American burying beetle ( *Nicrophorus americanus* ) throughout the range of the species. The scientific research is aimed at enhancement of survival of the species in the wild. Permit Number: TE151107 *Applicant:* Redwing Ecological Services, Inc., Louisville, Kentucky. The applicant requests a permit to take the Indiana bat ( *Myotis sodalis* ), gray bat ( *M. grisescens* ), Ozark big-eared bat ( *Corynorhinus townsendii ingens* ), and Virginia big-eared bat ( *C. t. virginianus* ) throughout the range of the species. The scientific research is aimed at enhancement of survival of the species in the wild. Permit Number: TE151109 *Applicant:* Ohio Division of Wildlife, Columbus, Ohio. The applicant requests a permit to take the American burying beetle ( *Nicrophorus americanus* ) for the purpose of establishing captive colonies to be used for release into the wild. The scientific research is aimed at enhancement of survival of the species in the wild. Permit Number: TE151117 *Applicant:* Sarah Bradley, Salem, Missouri. The applicant requests a permit to take the Indiana bat ( *Myotis sodalis* ) and gray bat ( *M. grisescens* ) throughout the Mark Twain National Forest, Missouri. The scientific research is aimed at enhancement of survival of the species in the wild. Permit Number: TE152002 *Applicant:* FMSM Engineers, Inc., Louisville, Kentucky. The applicant requests a permit to take 5 listed fish species, 23 species of listed mussels, 4 species of listed bats, and 2 listed reptile species throughout 28 states. The scientific research is aimed at enhancement of survival of the species in the wild. Permit Number: TE152216 *Applicant:* Marlin Bowles, The Morton Arboreteum, Lisle, Illinois. The applicant requests a permit to take Mead's milkweed (Asclepius meadii) throughout Illinois. The scientific research is aimed at enhancement of survival of the species in the wild. Public Comments We solicit public review and comment on this permit application. Please refer to the respective permit number when you submit comments. We make all comments we receive, including names and addresses, part of the official administrative record, and may make them available to the public. Our practice is to make comments, including names and home addresses of respondents, available for public review during regular business hours. Individual respondents may request that we withhold their home addresses from the record, which we will honor to the extent allowable by law. There also may be circumstances in which we would withhold from the record a respondent's identity, as allowable by law. If you wish us to withhold your name and/or address, you must state this prominently at the beginning of your comment, but you should be aware that we may be required to disclose your name and address pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act. We will make all submissions from organizations or businesses, and from individuals identifying themselves as representatives or officials of organizations or businesses, available for public inspection in their entirety. Comments and materials we receive are available for public inspection, by appointment, during normal business hours at the address shown in the ADDRESSES section. National Environmental Policy Act

(NEPA)In compliance with NEPA (42 U.S.C. 4321 *et seq.* ), we have made an initial determination that the activities proposed by this permit are categorically excluded from the requirement to prepare an environmental assessment or environmental impact statement. Dated: April 17, 2007. Lynn Lewis, Deputy Assistant Regional Director, Ecological Services, Region 3, Fort Snelling, Minnesota. [FR Doc. E7-9266 Filed 5-14-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4310-55-P DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR Fish and Wildlife Service Receipt of Application for Endangered Species Permit AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: The public is invited to comment on the following application to conduct certain activities with endangered species. DATES: We must receive written data or comments on the application at the address given below, by June 14, 2007. ADDRESSES: Documents and other information submitted with the application are available for review, subject to the requirements of the Privacy Act and Freedom of Information Act, by any party who submits a written request for a copy of such documents to the following office within 30 days of the date of publication of this notice: Fish and Wildlife Service, 1875 Century Boulevard, Suite 200, Atlanta, Georgia 30345 (Attn: David Dell, HCP Coordinator). FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: David Dell, telephone 404/679-7313; facsimile 404/679-7081. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The public is invited to comment on the following application for a permit to conduct certain activities with endangered and threatened species. This notice is provided under section 10(c) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531 *et seq.* ). If you wish to comment, you may submit comments by any one of the following methods. You may mail comments to the Fish and Wildlife Service's Regional Office (see ADDRESSES section) or via electronic mail (e-mail) to *david_dell@fws.gov* . Please include your name and return address in your e-mail message. If you do not receive a confirmation from the Fish and Wildlife Service that we have received your e-mail message, contact us directly at the telephone number listed above (see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section). Finally, you may hand deliver comments to the Fish and Wildlife Service office listed above (see ADDRESSES section). Before including your address, telephone number, e-mail address, or other personal identifying information in your comments, you should be aware that your entire comment—including your personal identifying information—may be made publicly available at any time. While you can ask us in your comments to withhold your personal identifying information from public review, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to do so. There may also be other circumstances in which we would withhold from the administrative record a respondent's identity, as allowable by law. If you wish us to withhold your name and address, you must state this prominently at the beginning of your comments. We will not, however, consider anonymous comments. We will make all submissions from organizations or businesses, and from individuals identifying themselves as representatives or officials of organizations or businesses, available for public inspection in their entirety. *Applicant:* Jackson Environmental Consulting Services, LLC, Jeremy Lynn Jackson, Richmond, Kentucky, TE102292-3. The applicant requests authorization to renew and amend an existing permit authorization to take (capture, identify, release) the gray bat ( *Myotis grisescens* ), Indiana bat ( *Myotis sodalis* ), and Virginia big-eared bat ( *Corynorhinus townsendii virginianus* ) while conducting presence/absence surveys in West Virginia, Virginia, Tennessee, North Carolina, Kentucky, Alabama, Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. Dated: April 9, 2007. Cynthia K. Dohner, Acting Regional Director. [FR Doc. E7-9273 Filed 5-14-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4310-55-P DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR Fish and Wildlife Service Proposed Low-Effect Habitat Conservation Plan for the Bay Checkerspot Butterfly for the Metcalf-El Patio Reconductor and Metcalf-Hicks/Vasona Reconductor, Santa Clara County, CA AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior. ACTION: Notice of availability: receipt of application; request for comment. SUMMARY: We, the Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), announce receipt of an application from the Pacific Gas & Electric Company (applicant) for a 3-year incidental take permit for the federally threatened bay checkerspot butterfly ( *Euphydryas editha bayensis* ) under section 10(a)(1)(B) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). The application addresses the potential for “take” of the butterfly incidental to proposed reconductoring and conservation management activities at the Metcalf-El Patio 115 kV and Metcalf-Hicks/Vasona 230 kV transmission line site in Santa Clara County, California (plan area). We request comments on the applicant's application and low-effect habitat conservation plan (plan), and on our preliminary determination that the Plan qualifies as a “low-effect” habitat conservation plan eligible for a categorical exclusion under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, as amended (NEPA). We discuss our basis for this determination in our environmental action statement (EAS), which is also available for review. DATES: We must receive any written comments on or before June 14, 2007. ADDRESSES: Please address written comments to Lori Rinek, Chief, Conservation Planning and Recovery Division, Fish and Wildlife Service, Sacramento Fish and Wildlife Office, 2800 Cottage Way, W-2605, Sacramento, CA 95825. Alternatively, you may send comments by facsimile to

(916)414-6713. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Eric Tattersall, Chief, Conservation Planning Branch, or Cori Mustin, Senior Biologist, at the Sacramento Fish and Wildlife Office, at

(916)414-6600 (telephone). SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Availability of Documents You may obtain copies of the permit application, plan, and EAS from the individuals named under FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT . Documents will also be available for public inspection, by appointment, during regular business hours at the Sacramento Fish and Wildlife Office (see ADDRESSES ). Public Availability of Comments Before including your address, phone number, e-mail address, or other personal identifying information in your comment, you should be aware that your entire comment—including your personal identifying information—may be made publicly available at any time. While you can ask us in your comment to withhold your personal identifying information from public review, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to do so. Background Information Section 9 of the Act (16 U.S.C. 1531 *et seq.* ) and its implementing Federal regulations prohibit the “take” of fish or wildlife species listed as endangered or threatened. “Take” is defined under the Act to include the following activities: To harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture or collect listed animal species, or to attempt to engage in such conduct. However, under section 10(a)(1)(B) of the Act, the Service may issue permits to authorize incidental take of listed species. “Incidental take” is defined by the Act as take that is incidental to, and not the purpose of, carrying out an otherwise lawful activity. Regulations governing incidental take permits for endangered and threatened species, respectively, are in the Code of Federal Regulations at 50 CFR 17.22 and 50 CFR 17.32. The applicant seeks a permit for take of one federally listed species, the threatened bay checkerspot butterfly ( *Euphydryas editha bayensis* ). This species is referred to as the “covered species” in the plan. The proposed reconductoring activities would temporarily affect approximately 2.4 acres

(ac)of habitat, which comprises approximately 0.0084 percent of the species' designated critical habitat. The applicant would receive “No Surprises” assurances for the covered species under our “No Surprises” regulations (50 CFR 17.22(b)(5) and 17.32(b)(5)). Only one species listed under the Act, the bay checkerspot butterfly, has the potential to occur on the project site and to be incidentally taken by the proposed project. Several other sensitive species are located in the vicinity of the plan area, including:

(1)California tiger salamander ( *Ambystoma californiense* ), federally listed as threatened;

(2)California red-legged frog ( *Rana aurora draytonii* ), federally listed as threatened;

(3)Santa Clara Valley dudleya ( *Dudleya setchellii* ), federally listed as endangered; and

(4)Metcalf Canyon jewelflower ( *Streptanthus albidus albidus* ), federally listed as endangered. However, the Service determined that there would be no take of California tiger salamander or California red-legged frog. It was also determined that there would be no project-related effects on Santa Clara Valley dudleya or Metcalf Canyon jewelflower. Therefore, bay checkerspot butterfly is the only covered species in the plan. The applicant proposes to reconductor two Metcalf transmission lines within the plan area. As discussed in the plan, proposed covered activities include the following:

(1)Constructing crossing structures,

(2)pulling new conductors,

(3)accessing the plan area,

(4)staging in the plan area,

(5)implementing fire prevention/suppression measures, and

(6)implementing a conservation strategy for the bay checkerspot butterfly. The applicant proposes to avoid and minimize take and associated adverse project impacts to the covered species by fully implementing the plan. The applicant will minimize and mitigate the impacts of taking the bay checkerspot butterfly by implementing the following measures:

(1)Conducting construction activities during summer and late fall;

(2)ensuring that a qualified biologist is present to monitor and oversee technical issues relative to compliance with the mitigation and conservation measures;

(3)restricting work activities to a 50-foot radius area from the center of most towers;

(4)documenting serpentine (type of soil) habitat conditions with photographs before and after reconductoring activities;

(5)developing and implementing, as appropriate, a re-seeding plan;

(6)planning for rain that may occur prior to the completion of the project;

(7)ensuring minimal disturbance caused by construction equipment;

(8)ensuring that construction personnel receive worker awareness training;

(9)ensuring that measures are taken to prevent accidental wildfires; and

(10)halting project activities if bay checkerspot larvae or adults are found on site and coordinating with us regarding next steps. The applicant's plan also describes measures and funding sources that ensure that the elements of the plan would be implemented in a timely manner, actions to be taken if unforeseen events occur, and other required elements. Our proposed action consists of approving the applicant's plan and issuing an incidental take permit for the applicant's project. As required by the Act, the applicant's plan also considers alternatives to the take considered under the proposed action. The plan considers the environmental consequences of one alternative to the proposed action, the No Action alternative. The proposed action alternative consists of issuance of the incidental take permit for the applicant's proposed project, which includes the activities described above. The proposed action alternative would result in temporary impacts to 2.4 ac of serpentine habitat. To mitigate for temporary impacts, the applicant agrees to purchase and conserve at least 1.2 ac of bay checkerspot butterfly habitat at a ratio of 0.5 to 1, of acres permanently protected to acres temporarily affected. Under the No Action alternative, no permit would be issued, no construction associated with reconductoring activities would occur, and no take would occur. Under this alternative, the applicant would not be able to provide a safe and reliable power supply to its south San Jose service area, which is currently operating close to its maximum load rating. Additionally, an outage on one of the existing circuits could result in power curtailments or outages in the area, which would put the public's health, welfare, and safety at risk and could also result in substantial damage to the applicant's electrical system. No conservation areas would be protected under the No Action alternative. National Environmental Policy Act As described in our EAS, we have made the preliminary determination that approval of the proposed plan and issuance of the permit would qualify as a categorical exclusion under NEPA, as provided by Federal regulations (40 CFR 1500, 5(k), 1507.3(b)(2), 1508.4) and the Department of the Interior Manual (516 DM 2 and 516 DM 8). Our EAS found that the proposed plan qualifies as a “low-effect” habitat conservation plan, as defined by the Service's Habitat Conservation Planning Handbook (November 1996). Determination of low-effect habitat conservation plans is based on the following three criteria:

(1)Implementation of the proposed plan would result in minor or negligible effects on federally listed, proposed, and candidate species and their habitats;

(2)implementation of the proposed plan would result in minor or negligible effects on other environmental values or resources; and

(3)impacts of the plan, considered together with the impacts of other past, present and reasonably foreseeable similarly situated projects, would not result, over time, in cumulative effects to environmental values or resources which would be considered significant. Based upon the preliminary determinations in the EAS, we do not intend to prepare further NEPA documentation. We will consider public comments when making the final determination on whether to prepare an additional NEPA document on the proposed action. Public Review We provide this notice pursuant to section 10(c) of the Act and the NEPA public-involvement regulations (40 CFR 1500.1(b), 1500.2(d), and 1506.6). We will evaluate the permit application, including the plan, and comments submitted thereon to determine whether the application meets the requirements of section 10(a) of the Act. If the requirements are met, we will issue a permit to the Pacific Gas & Electric Company for incidental take of the bay checkerspot butterfly during Metcalf reconductoring work. We will make the final permit decision no sooner than 30 days after the date of this notice. Dated: May 9, 2007. Susan K. Moore, Field Supervisor, Sacramento Fish and Wildlife Office, Sacramento, California. [FR Doc. E7-9277 Filed 5-14-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4310-55-P DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR Bureau of Land Management [AK-990-07-5101-NH-FLO7] Notice of Public Meeting of the Federal/State Joint Pipeline Office Executive Council AGENCY: Bureau of Land Management, Alaska State Office, Interior. ACTION: Notice of public meeting. SUMMARY: In accordance with the **Federal Register** requirements to announce meetings the Federal/State Joint Pipeline Office will meet as indicated below. DATES: The meeting will be held June 13, 2007, at the Alaska State Library Talking Book Center at 344 West 3rd Avenue, Suite 125, in Anchorage, Alaska. The meeting begins at 8:30 a.m. The council will accept public comment at 1 p.m. Time for individual comments may be limited depending on the number of people wishing to give comment. The council will accept written comments. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Rhea DoBosh, Joint Pipeline Office, 411 West 4th Avenue, Suite 2C, Anchorage, Alaska 99501; by phone, 907-257-1338; by fax, 907-257-1397; or by e-mail, *rdobosh@jpo.doi.gov* . SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The 12-member Federal/State Executive Council was created in March 1990 to provide full partnership for State and Federal agencies in monitoring of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System (TAPS). At this meeting, topics to be presented and discussed include: • History and overview of the Joint Pipeline Office. • Update on the TAPS Strategic Reconfiguration Project. • Agency reports. • Future scope of work. • Other topics the Council may raise. All meetings are open to the public. If you plan to comment on an agenda item, please be aware that your entire comment—including your personal identifying information of address, phone number, e-mail address, or other personal identifying information in your comment—may be made publicly available at any time. While you can ask us in your comment to withhold your personal identifying information from public review, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to do so. The public may present written comments to the Council. Individuals who plan to attend and need special assistance, such as sign language interpretation, transportation, or other reasonable accommodations, should contact the Joint Pipeline Office so arrangements can be made. To connect to the meeting via telebridge, dial 1-877-934-3608, then dial code 190500#. When the automated voice instructs you to say your name, say “Your Name/Office” then press #. Dated: May 8, 2007. Sharon K Wilson, Acting State Director. [FR Doc. E7-9284 Filed 5-14-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4310-JA-P DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR Bureau of Reclamation Quarterly Status Report of Water Service, Repayment, and Other Water-Related Contract Negotiations AGENCY: Bureau of Reclamation, Interior. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: Notice is hereby given of contractual actions that have been proposed to the Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation) and are new, modified, discontinued, or completed since the last publication of this notice on February 27, 2007. This notice is one of a variety of means used to inform the public about proposed contractual actions for capital recovery and management of project resources and facilities consistent with section 9(f) of the Reclamation Project Act of 1939. Additional announcements of individual contract actions may be published in the **Federal Register** and in newspapers of general circulation in the areas determined by Reclamation to be affected by the proposed action. ADDRESSES: The identity of the approving officer and other information pertaining to a specific contract proposal may be obtained by calling or writing the appropriate regional office at the address and telephone number given for each region in the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Sandra L. Simons, Manager, Contract Services Office, Bureau of Reclamation, PO Box 25007, Denver, Colorado 80225-0007; telephone 303-445-2902. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Consistent with section 9(f) of the Reclamation Project Act of 1939 and the rules and regulations published in 52 FR 11954, April 13, 1987 (43 CFR 426.22), Reclamation will publish notice of proposed or amendatory contract actions for any contract for the delivery of project water for authorized uses in newspapers of general circulation in the affected area at least 60 days prior to contract execution. Announcements may be in the form of news releases, legal notices, official letters, memorandums, or other forms of written material. Meetings, workshops, and/or hearings may also be used, as appropriate, to provide local publicity. The public participation procedures do not apply to proposed contracts for the sale of surplus or interim irrigation water for a term of 1 year or less. Either of the contracting parties may invite the public to observe contract proceedings. All public participation procedures will be coordinated with those involved in complying with the National Environmental Policy Act. Pursuant to the “Final Revised Public Participation Procedures” for water resource-related contract negotiations, published in 47 FR 7763, February 22, 1982, a tabulation is provided of all proposed contractual actions in each of the five Reclamation regions. When contract negotiations are completed, and prior to execution, each proposed contract form must be approved by the Secretary of the Interior, or pursuant to delegated or redelegated authority, the Commissioner of Reclamation or one of the regional directors. In some instances, congressional review and approval of a report, water rate, or other terms and conditions of the contract may be involved. Public participation in and receipt of comments on contract proposals will be facilitated by adherence to the following procedures: 1. Only persons authorized to act on behalf of the contracting entities may negotiate the terms and conditions of a specific contract proposal. 2. Advance notice of meetings or hearings will be furnished to those parties that have made a timely written request for such notice to the appropriate regional or project office of Reclamation. 3. Written correspondence regarding proposed contracts may be made available to the general public pursuant to the terms and procedures of the Freedom of Information Act, as amended. 4. Written comments on a proposed contract or contract action must be submitted to the appropriate regional officials at the locations and within the time limits set forth in the advance public notices. 5. All written comments received and testimony presented at any public hearing will be reviewed and summarized by the appropriate regional office for use by the contract approving authority. 6. Copies of specific proposed contracts may be obtained from the appropriate regional director or his designated public contact as they become available for review and comment. 7. In the event modifications are made in the form of a proposed contract, the appropriate regional director shall determine whether republication of the notice and/or extension of the comment period is necessary. Factors considered in making such a determination shall include, but are not limited to

(i)the significance of the modification, and

(ii)the degree of public interest which has been expressed over the course of the negotiations. At a minimum, the regional director shall furnish revised contracts to all parties who requested the contract in response to the initial public notice. Definitions of Abbreviations Frequently Used in This Document BCP: Boulder Canyon Project Reclamation: Bureau of Reclamation CAP: Central Arizona Project CVP: Central Valley Project CRSP: Colorado River Storage Project FR: Federal Register IDD: Irrigation and Drainage District ID: Irrigation District M&I: Municipal and Industrial NMISC: New Mexico Interstate Stream Commission O&M: Operation and Maintenance P-SMBP: Pick-Sloan Missouri Basin Program PPR: Present Perfected Right RRA: Reclamation Reform Act of 1982 SOD: Safety of Dams USACE: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers WD: Water District *Pacific Northwest Region:* Bureau of Reclamation, 1150 North Curtis Road, Suite 100, Boise, Idaho 83706-1234, telephone 208-378-5344. *New contract actions:* 19. Six irrigation water user entities, Rogue River Basin Project, Oregon: Long-term contracts for exchange of water service with six entities for the provision of up to 2,634 acre-feet of stored water from Applegate Reservoir (USACE project) for irrigation use in exchange for the transfer of out-of-stream water rights from the Little Applegate River to instream flow rights with the State of Oregon for instream flow use. 20. Cowiche Creek Water Users Association and Yakima-Tieton ID, Yakima Project, Washington: Warren Act contract to allow the use of excess capacity in Yakima Project facilities to convey up to 1,583.4 acre-feet of nonproject water for the irrigation of approximately 396 acres of nonproject land. *Modified contract action:* 16. One irrigation water user entity, Boise Project, Idaho: Long-term renewal and/or conversion of one irrigation water service contract for supplemental irrigation use of up to 1,718 acre-feet of storage space in Lucky Peak Reservoir, a USACE project on the Boise River, Idaho. Seventeen water service contracts have been converted to repayment contracts for a total of 68,500 acre-feet of storage space. *Completed contract action:* 8. City of Cle Elum, Yakima Project, Washington: Contract for up to 2,170 acre-feet of water for municipal use. Contract executed on January 25, 2007. *Mid-Pacific Region:* Bureau of Reclamation, 2800 Cottage Way, Sacramento, California 95825-1898, telephone 916-978-5250. *New contract actions:* 45. Goleta WD, Cachuma Project, California: Proposed agreement for title transfer of a federally owned distribution system of the Cachuma Project. *Completed contract action:* 29. Cachuma Operation and Maintenance Board, Cachuma Project, California: Repayment for SOD work on Lauro Dam. Contract executed on December 21, 2006. *Lower Colorado Region:* Bureau of Reclamation, PO Box 61470 (Nevada Highway and Park Street), Boulder City, Nevada 89006-1470, telephone 702-293-8192. *Completed contract actions:* 3. Brooke Water Co., BCP, Arizona: Amend contract for an additional 120 acre-feet per year of Colorado River water for domestic uses, as recommended by the Arizona Department of Water Resources. Contract executed March 16, 2007. 31. City of Needles, BCP, California: Amendment to contract No. 05-XX-30-W0445 to include PPR No. 44 for an annual diversion of 1,260 acre-feet or the annual consumptive use of 273 acre-feet, whichever is less. Contract executed March 16, 2007. *Upper Colorado Region:* Bureau of Reclamation, 125 South State Street, Room 6107, Salt Lake City, Utah 84138-1102, telephone 801-524-3864. *New contract actions:* 1.(b) Riverwalk Estates, LLP, Aspinall Storage Unit, CRSP: Riverwalk Estates, LLP has requested a 40-year water service contract for 8 acre-feet of M&I water out of Blue Mesa Reservoir, which requires Riverwalk Estates, LLP to present a Plan of Augmentation to the Division 4 Water Court. 1.(c) Camp Id-Ra-Ha-Je West Association, Aspinall Storage Unit, CRSP: Camp Id-Ra-Ha-Je West Association has requested a 40-year water service contract for 1 acre-foot of M&I water out of Blue Mesa Reservoir, which requires Camp Id-Ra-Ha-Je West Association to present a Plan of Augmentation to the Division 4 Water Court. 30. Weber Basin Water Conservancy District, Weber Basin Project, Utah: Contract providing for the District to repay the United States 15 percent of the cost of SOD modifications to the foundation of Arthur V. Watkins Dam. 31. Warren-Vosburg Ditch Company, Animas-La Plata Project, Colorado and New Mexico: Contract for payment of O&M costs associated with the Warren-Vosburg Ditch. *Discontinued contract action:* 29. Strawberry Valley Project, Utah: Contract to allow conversions of project irrigation water to municipal, domestic, and industrial uses. *Completed contract actions:* 1.(b) Riverwalk Estates, LLP, Aspinall Storage Unit, CRSP: Riverwalk Estates, LLP has requested a 40-year water service contract for 8 acre-feet of M&I water out of Blue Mesa Reservoir, which requires Riverwalk Estates, LLP to present a Plan of Augmentation to the Division 4 Water Court. Contract executed on March 1, 2007. 9. Pine River ID, Pine River Project, Colorado: Contract to allow the district to use a limited amount of project irrigation water for municipal, domestic, and industrial uses. Contract executed on March 16, 2007. 26. Emery County Project, Utah: The Huntington Cleveland Irrigation Company has requested a contract for carriage of up to 14,074 acre-feet of nonproject water; utilizing Huntington North Reservoir as a regulating feature associated with their Salinity Control Project. Contract executed on February 7, 2007. 28. North Fork Water Conservancy District and Ragged Mountain Water Users Association, Paonia Project, Colorado: North Fork and Ragged Mountain have requested a contract for supplemental water from the Paonia Project. Their contract expired on December 31, 2005, and the amended contract was executed on January 27, 2006. There is a need to amend this contract to include reference to the M&I contract waiting to be executed. Contract executed on January 23, 2007. *Great Plains Region:* Bureau of Reclamation, PO Box 36900, Federal Building, 316 North 26th Street, Billings, Montana 59101, telephone 406-247-7752. *New contract actions:* 49. City of Beloit, P-SMBP, Kansas: Contract renewal for M&I contract. 50. Twin Lakes Reservoir and Canal Company, Fryingpan-Arkansas Project, Colorado: Consideration of a request for a long-term contract for the use of excess capacity in the Fryingpan-Arkansas Project. 51. Giant Springs, Inc., Canyon Ferry Unit, P-SMBP, Montana: Request for a long-term contract for up to 5,600 acre-feet of water per year to fulfill the State requirement to replace water used under private rights. *Modified contract action:* 12. Savage ID, P-SMBP, Montana: The district is currently seeking title transfer. The contract is subject to renewal pending outcome of the title transfer process. The existing interim contract is due to expire in May 2008. *Discontinued contract actions:* 13. City of Fort Collins, Colorado-Big Thompson Project, Colorado: Long-term contracts for conveyance and storage of nonproject M&I water through Colorado-Big Thompson Project facilities. 14. Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, P-SMBP, North Dakota: Negotiate a long-term water service contract with the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe in North Dakota for irrigation of up to 2,380 acres of land within the reservation. 22. Garrison Diversion Unit, P-SMBP, North Dakota: Contracts to provide for project use pumping power or project use pumping power and supplemental irrigation water with various irrigation districts in North Dakota, covering a combined maximum 28,000 acres within the boundaries and limits set by the Dakota Water Resources Act of 2000. *Completed contract actions:* 26. Pueblo West Metropolitan District, Pueblo West, Fryingpan-Arkansas Project, Colorado: Consideration of a request for a 5- to 10-year contract for the use of excess capacity in the Fryingpan-Arkansas Project. A 5-year contract was executed on January 1, 2007. 48. City of Beloit, P-SMBP, Kansas: Execution of a contract amendment to the original contract to add a renewal provision in accordance with Section 1 of the Act of June 21, 1963. Contract amendment was executed on February 6, 2007. Dated: April 9, 2007. Roseann Gonzales, Director, Office of Program and Policy Services. [FR Doc. E7-9275 Filed 5-14-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4310-MN-P INTERNATIONAL TRADE COMMISSION [Investigation No. 332-227] Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act: Impact on U.S. Industries and Consumers and on Beneficiary Countries AGENCY: United States International Trade Commission. ACTION: Notice of opportunity to submit comments in connection with the eighteenth report covering 2005 and 2006. DATES: *Effective Date:* April 30, 2007. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Walker Pollard (202-205-3228; *walker.pollard@usitc.gov* ), Country and Regional Analysis Division, Office of Economics, U.S. International Trade Commission, Washington, DC 20436. The media should contact Peg O'Laughlin, Public Affairs Officer (202-205-1819; *margaret.olaughlin@usitc.gov* ). *Background:* Section 215(a)(1) of the Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act (CBERA) (19 U.S.C. 2704(a)(1)), as amended, requires that the Commission submit biennial reports to the Congress and the President regarding the economic impact of the Act on U.S. industries and consumers, and on beneficiary countries. Section 215(b)(1) requires that the reports include, but not be limited to, an assessment regarding:

(1)The actual effect of CBERA on the U.S. economy generally as well as on specific domestic industries which produce articles that are like, or directly competitive with, articles being imported from beneficiary countries under the Act; and

(2)The probable future effect of CBERA on the U.S. economy generally and on such domestic industries. Notice of institution of the investigation was published in the **Federal Register** of May 14, 1986 (51 FR 17678). The eighteenth report, covering calendar years 2005 and 2006, is to be submitted by September 30, 2007. *Written Submissions:* The Commission does not plan to hold a public hearing in connection with the preparation of this eighteenth report. However, interested persons are invited to submit written submissions concerning the matters to be addressed in the report. All written submissions should be addressed to the Secretary, United States International Trade Commission, 500 E Street, SW., Washington, DC 20436. To be assured of consideration by the Commission, written submissions relating to the Commission's report should be submitted to the Commission at the earliest practical date and should be received no later than the close of business on June 8, 2007. All written submissions must conform with the provisions of section 201.8 of the Commission's Rules of Practice and Procedure (19 CFR 201.8). Section 201.8 of the rules requires that a signed original (or a copy designated as an original) and fourteen

(14)copies of each document be filed. In the event that confidential treatment of the document is requested, at least four

(4)additional copies must be filed, in which the confidential business information

(CBI)must be deleted (see the following paragraph for further information regarding CBI). The Commission's rules do not authorize filing submissions with the Secretary by facsimile or electronic means, except to the extent permitted by section 201.8 of the rules (see Handbook for Electronic Filing Procedures, *http://www.usitc.gov/secretary/fed_reg_notices/rules/documents/handbook_on_electronic_filing.pdf* ). Persons with questions regarding electronic filing should contact the Secretary (202-205-2000 or *edis@usitc.gov* ). Any submissions that contain CBI must also conform with the requirements of section 201.6 of the Commission's rules (19 CFR 201.6). Section 201.6 of the rules requires that the cover of the document and the individual pages clearly be marked as to whether they are the “confidential” or “nonconfidential” version, and that the CBI be clearly identified by means of brackets. All written submissions, except for CBI, will be made available for inspection by interested parties. The Commission intends to publish only a public report in this investigation. Accordingly, any CBI received by the Commission in this investigation will not be published in a manner that would reveal the operations of the firm supplying the information. The report will be made available to the public on the Commission's Web site. The public record for this investigation may be viewed on the Commission's electronic docket

(EDIS)at *http://edis.usitc.gov* . Hearing-impaired individuals are advised that information on this matter can be obtained by contacting the Commission's TDD terminal on 202-205-1810. Persons with mobility impairments who will need special assistance in gaining access to the Commission should contact the Office of the Secretary at 202-205-2000. By order of the Commission. Issued: May 9, 2007. Marilyn R. Abbott, Secretary to the Commission. [FR Doc. E7-9248 Filed 5-14-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 7020-02-P JUDICIAL CONFERENCE OF THE UNITED STATES Meeting of the Judicial Conference Committee on Rules of Practice and Procedure AGENCY: Judicial Conference of the United States, Committee on Rules of Practice and Procedure. ACTION: Relocation of open meeting. SUMMARY: The location of the two-day meeting of the Committee on Rules of Practice and Procedure has been changed from Washington, DC to San Francisco, California. The meeting will be open to public observation but not participation. [Original notice of the meeting appeared in the **Federal Register** of March 7, 2007.] DATES: June 11-12, 2007. *Time:* 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. ADDRESSES: Le Meridien San Francisco, Mercantile Room, 333 Battery Street, San Francisco, CA. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: John K. Rabiej, Chief, Rules Committee Support Office, Administrative Office of the United States Courts, Washington, DC 20544, telephone

(202)502-1820. Dated: May 9, 2007. John K. Rabiej, Chief, Rules Committee Support Office. [FR Doc. 07-2381 Filed 5-14-07; 8:45 am]

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