Marine Mammals; File Nos. 14682, 10018, 13846, 14451, 14585, 14599, 14122, 14296, 14353, 58243-58245 [E9-27185]
Download as PDF
<![CDATA[
Federal Register / Vol. 74, No. 217 / Thursday, November 12, 2009 / Notices
administrative review of the
antidumping duty order on certain
stainless steel butt-weld pipe fittings
from Taiwan. The period of review is
June 1, 2007, through May 31, 2008.
This extension is made pursuant to
section 751(a)(3)(A) of the Tariff Act of
1930, as amended (the Act).
DATES: Effective Date: November 12,
2009.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Angelica Mendoza or John Drury, Office
7, AD/CVD Operations, Import
Administration, International Trade
Administration, U.S. Department of
Commerce, 14th Street and Constitution
Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20230,
telephone: (202) 482–3019 and (202)
482–0195, respectively.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
jlentini on DSKJ8SOYB1PROD with NOTICES
Background
On July 8, 2009, the Department
published the preliminary results of the
administrative review of the
antidumping duty order on certain
stainless steel butt-weld pipe fittings
from Taiwan covering the period June 1,
2007, through May 31, 2008. See Certain
Stainless Steel Butt-Weld Pipe Fittings
from Taiwan: Preliminary Results of
Antidumping Duty Administrative
Review, Notice of Intent to Rescind in
Part, and Notice of Intent Not to Revoke
Order in Part, 74 FR 32532 (July 8,
2009). The final results for the
antidumping duty administrative review
of certain stainless steel butt-weld pipe
fittings from Taiwan are currently due
no later than November 5, 2009.
Extension of Time Limits for Final
Results
Section 751(a)(3)(A) of the Act
requires the Department to issue the
results in an administrative review
within 120 days of the publication of
the preliminary results. However, if it is
not practicable to complete the review
within this time period, section
751(a)(3)(A) of the Act allows the
Department to extend the time limit for
the final results up to 180 days (or 300
days if the Department does not extend
the time limit for the preliminary
results) from the date of publication of
the preliminary results.
In accordance with section
751(a)(3)(A) of the Act and 19 CFR
351.213(h)(2), the Department finds that
it is not practicable to complete the
review within the original time frame
(i.e., by November 5, 2009). Specifically,
the Department requires additional time
to review complex issues raised in the
respondent Ta Chen Stainless Pipe Co.
Ltd.’s case brief, including comments
relating to the respondent’s qualification
VerDate Nov<24>2008
16:12 Nov 10, 2009
Jkt 220001
for a constructed export price offset and
the Department’s use of facts available
with respect to certain aspects of
respondent’s cost reporting. Because it
is not practicable to complete this
administrative review within the time
limit mandated by section 751(a)(3)(A)
of the Act and 19 CFR 351.213(h)(2), the
Department is extending the time limit
for completion of the final results of this
administrative review by 32 days, to no
later than December 7, 2009.
This notice is published pursuant to
sections 751(a)(1) and 777(i)(1) of the
Act.
Dated: November 5, 2009.
Edward C. Yang,
Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary for
Antidumping and Countervailing Duty
Operations.
[FR Doc. E9–27201 Filed 11–10–09; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3510–DS–P
DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration
RIN 0648–XS81
Marine Mammals; File Nos. 14682,
10018, 13846, 14451, 14585, 14599,
14122, 14296, 14353
AGENCY: National Marine Fisheries
Service (NMFS), National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration (NOAA),
Commerce.
ACTION: Notice; receipt of applications.
SUMMARY: Notice is hereby given that
NMFS has received nine applications
for permits or permit amendments to
conduct research on marine mammals.
See SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION for
additional information regarding
applicants and specific information on
species affected.
DATES: Written, telefaxed, or e-mail
comments must be received on or before
December 14, 2009.
ADDRESSES: The applications and
related documents are available for
review by selecting ‘‘Records Open for
Public Comment’’ from the Features box
on the Applications and Permits for
Protected Species (APPS) home page,
https://apps.nmfs.noaa.gov, and then
selecting the associated File No. from
the list of available applications.
These documents are also available
upon written request or by appointment
in the offices listed in SUPPLEMENTARY
INFORMATION.
Written comments or requests for a
public hearing on these applications
should be mailed to the Chief, Permits,
Conservation and Education Division,
PO 00000
Frm 00005
Fmt 4703
Sfmt 4703
58243
F/PR1, Office of Protected Resources,
NMFS, 1315 East-West Highway, Room
13705, Silver Spring, MD 20910. Those
individuals requesting a hearing should
set forth the specific reasons why a
hearing on this particular request would
be appropriate.
Comments may also be submitted by
facsimile at (301)713–0376, provided
the facsimile is confirmed by hard copy
submitted by mail and postmarked no
later than the closing date of the
comment period.
Comments may also be submitted by
e-mail. The mailbox address for
providing e-mail comments is
NMFS.Pr1Comments@noaa.gov. Include
in the subject line of the e-mail
comment the associated File Number.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: The
following Analysts at (301)713–2289:
For File No. 14682: Kristy Beard or
Carrie Hubard; File No. 10018: Carrie
Hubard or Kristy Beard; File No. 13846:
Amy Hapeman or Kristy Beard; File No.
14451: Kate Swails or Kristy Beard; File
No. 14585: Amy Hapeman or Kristy
Beard; File No. 14599: Amy Sloan or
Kristy Beard; File No. 14122: Amy Sloan
or Kristy Beard; File No. 14296: Kristy
Beard or Jennifer Skidmore; File No.
14353: Carrie Hubard or Kristy Beard.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The
subject permits and permit amendment
are requested under the authority of the
Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972,
as amended (MMPA; 16 U.S.C. 1361 et
seq.), the regulations governing the
taking and importing of marine
mammals (50 CFR part 216), the
Endangered Species Act of 1973, as
amended (ESA; 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.),
and the regulations governing the
taking, importing, and exporting of
endangered and threatened species (50
CFR 222–226).
Each of the nine applications is
summarized below. For specific take
numbers of each species, please refer to
the associated application.
Whitlow Au, Ph.D. [File No. 14682],
University of Hawaii, Hawaii Institute of
Marine Biology, Marine Mammal
Research Program, PO Box 1106, Kailua,
HI 96734, requests a five-year permit to
investigate the population dynamics
and behavior of cetaceans around
Hawaii and the Pacific, to determine
aspects of the behavior and use of the
acoustic environment by large whales,
and to determine the effects of noise on
behavior of cetaceans around Hawaii.
Researchers would conduct behavioral
observations, photo-identification,
genetic sampling, suction-cup tagging,
acoustic recording, and acoustic
playbacks from vessels. Target species
would be: Blainville’s beaked whale
E:\FR\FM\12NON1.SGM
12NON1
jlentini on DSKJ8SOYB1PROD with NOTICES
58244
Federal Register / Vol. 74, No. 217 / Thursday, November 12, 2009 / Notices
(Mesoplodon densirostris), Cuvier’s
beaked whale (Ziphius cavirostris),
killer whale (Orcinus orca), humpback
whale (Megaptera novaeangliae), dwarf
sperm whale (Kogia sima), pygmy sperm
whale (K. breviceps), short-finned pilot
whale (Globicephala macrorhynchus),
false killer whale (Pseudorca
crassidens), pygmy killer whale (Feresa
attenuata), melon-headed whale
(Peponocephala electra), long-beaked
common dolphin (Delphinus capensis),
short-beaked common dolphin (D.
delphis), striped dolphin (Stenella
coeruleoalba), spinner dolphin (S.
longirostris), pantropical spotted
dolphin (S. attenuata), bottlenose
dolphin (Turisiops truncatus), Risso’s
dolphin (Grampus griseus), Pacific
white-sided dolphin (Lagenorhynchus
obliquidens), and rough-toothed
dolphin (Steno bredanensis).
Rachel Cartwright, Ph.D. [File No.
10018], Keiki Kohola Project, 5277 West
Wooley Road, Oxnard, CA 93035,
requests an amendment to Permit No.
10018, issued on June 18, 2008 (73 FR
36042). Dr. Cartwright is currently
authorized to conduct humpback whale
research, consisting of photoidentification, focal follows, underwater
observations, and collection of sloughed
skin, in Hawaiian waters. The permit
holder now requests authorization to
conduct similar research in Alaskan
waters from May through September
each year. The purpose of the
amendment is to broaden the current
study on humpback whale female-calf
behavior and habitat choice. Field work
would be based out of Kake, Alaska and
focused primarily in Chatham Straits,
Frederick Sound, Sumner Strait, Lynn
Canal and Icy Strait. Humpback whales
of all ages, including calves, would be
harassed during surveys and the
associated photo-identification, passive
acoustics, and behavioral observations.
Four other species of cetaceans (killer
whales, Pacific white-sided dolphins,
and harbor (Phocoena phocoena) and
Dall’s porpoises (Phocoenoides dalli))
may be incidentally harassed during the
research. Any killer whales observed
would be photographed for
identification purposes. The amended
permit would expire on June 30, 2013.
Jim Darling, Ph.D. [File No. 13846],
Whale Trust, P.O. Box 384, Tofino, BC
V0R2Z0, Canada, requests a five-year
permit to study the social organization,
behavior and communication of
humpback whales in Hawaii (primarily
off west Maui), and the population
biology, ecology, and behavior of
humpback and Eastern gray
(Eschrichtius robustus) whales along the
coastlines of Washington and Alaska.
Researchers would conduct photo-
VerDate Nov<24>2008
16:12 Nov 10, 2009
Jkt 220001
identification, passive acoustic
recording, behavioral observation (by
vessel, underwater and aerial), videorecording, collection of sloughed skin,
photogrammetry, biopsy sampling,
playback experiments, and suction-cup
and implant tagging of target whales.
Whales of all ages would be harassed
during surveys with the exceptions that
only juvenile and adult humpbacks
would be biopsy sampled and only
adult humpbacks would be tagged. In
Hawaii, spinner dolphins, pantropical
spotted dolphins, bottlenose dolphins
and false killer whales may be
incidentally harassed during research.
Killer whales and Steller sea lions
(Eumetopias jubatus) may be
incidentally harassed in Washington or
Alaskan waters during research.
Joseph Mobley, Jr. [File No. 14451],
University of Hawaii at Manoa, 2528
McCarthy Mall, Honolulu, HI 96816,
requests a five-year permit to investigate
short and long-term changes in
population size, habitat use, and
behavior of cetaceans off the coast of
eastern and western United States,
Hawaii, Alaska, Guam, and the Mariana
Islands. Researchers would conduct
aerial and vessel surveys, photoidentification, videography, and
behavioral observations. Research
would target numerous cetacean species
including endangered blue whales
(Balaenoptera musculus), fin whales (B.
physalus), humpback whales, sei whales
(B. borealis) and sperm whales (Physeter
macrocephalus).
Adam Pack, Ph.D. [File No. 14585],
University of Hawaii at Hilo, 200 West
Kawili St., Hilo, HI, 96720, requests a
five-year permit to continue long-term
population studies of humpback whales
and other cetacean species in the
Eastern, Western and Central North
Pacific Ocean, primarily Hawaii and
Alaska. These studies include: (1)
photo-identification to determine
individual life histories, social role,
migration, habitat use, distribution, and
reproductive states; (2) underwater
videogrammetry to determine the body
sizes of animals in different social roles;
(3) underwater videography to
document behaviors and social
interactions, and to aid in sex
determination; (4) passive acoustic
recordings of song to trace the evolution
of song in Hawaii and to examine
acoustic characteristics of song in
relation to singer size and life history;
(5) passive acoustic recordings of nonsong vocalizations to determine acoustic
properties, contexts, and functions; (6)
Crittercam studies of humpbacks in
different group types to help in the
understanding of the humpback mating
system; and (7) skin and blubber biopsy
PO 00000
Frm 00006
Fmt 4703
Sfmt 4703
sampling for sex determination, and for
health assessment. In addition to
humpback whales, the following species
may be opportunistically studied or
incidentally harassed during surveys:
bottlenose dolphin, spinner dolphin,
spotted dolphin, Risso’s dolphin, false
killer whale, melon-headed whale,
pygmy killer whale, rough toothed
dolphin, pilot whale, striped dolphin,
pygmy and dwarf sperm whales, killer
whale, sperm whale, North Pacific right
whale (Eubalaena japonica), fin whale,
blue whale, Cuvier’s beaked whale,
minke whale (B. acutorostrata), sei
whale, Bryde’s whale (B. edeni), Fraser’s
dolphin (Lagenodelphis hosei) and
Blainville’s beaked whale.
Fred A. Sharpe, Ph.D. [File No.
14599], Alaska Whale Foundation, 4739
University Way NE ι1239, Seattle WA
98105, requests a five-year permit to
conduct research on the social
complexity of Alaskan humpback whale
bubble feeding to gain insight into the
manner in which environmental and
social factors shape this behavior.
Research would be conducted annually
and include approaches to individuals
for: (1) photo-identification; (2) acoustic
recordings; (3) sonar profiling; (4) pole
cam observations; (5) broadcasting
sounds to individuals; (6) attachment of
suction cup tags; (7) aerial observations;
(8) SCUBA observations; and (9)
opportunistic collection of fecal
material. Most activities would be
conducted independently; however,
photo-identification would occur before
or after most other activities, and some
playbacks would be broadcast
concurrently to tagged individuals to
document received levels and
subsurface movements. No impacts to
non-target species are anticipated. The
applicant is also requesting
opportunistic approaches to killer
whales for photo-identification. The
proposed activities are part of an
ongoing study, and ouldl be conducted
in the waters of Southeast Alaska,
primarily from mid-May to midOctober.
Jan Straley [File No. 14122],
University of Alaska Southeast Sitka
Campus, 1332 Seward Ave., Sitka, AK
99835, requests a five-year permit to
study the biology of large whales in
Alaskan waters to: (1) continue and
expand a study of humpback whales
including takes by close approach/
disturbance, biological sampling,
suction cup and satellite tagging and
acoustic playbacks; (2) study sperm
whale movements, foraging behavior
and depredation on longline fishing gear
to reduce interactions involving takes by
close approach/disturbance, biological
sampling, suction cup and satellite
E:\FR\FM\12NON1.SGM
12NON1
jlentini on DSKJ8SOYB1PROD with NOTICES
Federal Register / Vol. 74, No. 217 / Thursday, November 12, 2009 / Notices
tagging, fishing modifications and
acoustic playbacks; (3) study killer
whale seasonal movements, foraging,
migration patterns and depredation,
including takes by close approach/
disturbance, biological sampling,
suction cup and satellite tagging and
acoustic playbacks; (4) enhance the
body of knowledge, stock structure and
current status through research
activities involving close approach/
disturbance, biological sampling and
tagging of gray, minke, fin, sei, blue, and
North Pacific right whales; and (5) study
killer whale predation events,
photograph, observe, collect tissue
samples, incidentally harass and collect
dead parts from prey including:
humpback, gray, minke, sei and fin
whales, harbor porpoise, Dall’s
porpoise, Pacific white-sided dolphin,
Northern fur seal (Callorhinus ursinus),
Steller sea lion, and harbor seal (Phoca
vitulina).
Briana Witteveen, Ph.D. [File No.
14296], University of Alaska Fairbanks,
School of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences,
118 Trident Way, Kodiak, AK 99615,
requests a five-year permit to conduct
scientific research on cetaceans yearround in the Gulf of Alaska, with
emphasis on examining prey use and
foraging patterns of gray, fin, humpback,
and killer whales and exploring the
responses of humpback whales to
acoustic deterrent devices. Takes would
occur by close approach to collect
photographs, recordings of
vocalizations, biopsy samples, prey
parts, sloughed skin, to attach suction
cup tags, and to document response to
acoustic deterrents. Sei, blue, minke,
sperm, and right whales would be taken
by close approach to collect
photographs and biopsy samples. Other
species of marine mammals might be
incidentally harassed during research
activities.
Ann Zoidis [File No. 14353], Cetos
Research Organization, 33 Echo Ave.,
Suite 5, Oakland, CA 94611, requests a
five-year permit to conduct scientific
research on humpback and minke
whales in Hawaiian waters. Research
would occur January through March.
Humpback whale research would be
focused in the Au’au Channel near
Maui. The objectives of the research are
to examine: (1) underwater activity
budgets of humpback whales, including
during non-daylight hours; (2) mother/
calf/escort interactions, including sound
production and vocal/behavioral
responses to sounds by conspecifics; (3)
habitat use; and (4) any behavioral and/
or acoustic reactions to passing vessel
traffic. Research activities would
include photo-identification, behavioral
observations, passive acoustic
VerDate Nov<24>2008
16:12 Nov 10, 2009
Jkt 220001
recording, and underwater photo/
videography. Suction cup tags would be
deployed on humpback whales,
including calves. Minke whales would
be approached for photo-identification
anywhere within the main Hawaiian
islands. Twelve other cetacean species
may be incidentally harassed during
research activities.
In compliance with the National
Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42
U.S.C. 4321 et seq.), an environmental
assessment (EA) will be prepared to
examine whether significant
environmental impacts could result
from issuance of the proposed scientific
research permits and permit
amendment.
Concurrent with the publication of
this notice in the Federal Register,
NMFS is forwarding copies of these
applications to the Marine Mammal
Commission and its Committee of
Scientific Advisors.
Documents may be reviewed in the
following locations:
Permits, Conservation and Education
Division, Office of Protected Resources,
NMFS, 1315 East-West Highway, Room
13705, Silver Spring, MD 20910; phone
(301)713–2289; fax (301)713–0376;
Northwest Region, NMFS, 7600 Sand
Point Way NE, BIN C15700, Bldg. 1,
Seattle, WA 98115–0700; phone
(206)526–6150; fax (206)526–6426;
Alaska Region, NMFS, P.O. Box
21668, Juneau, AK 99802–1668; phone
(907)586–7221; fax (907)586–7249;
Southwest Region, NMFS, 501 West
Ocean Blvd., Suite 4200, Long Beach,
CA 90802–4213; phone (562)980–4001;
fax (562)980–4018;
Pacific Islands Region, NMFS, 1601
Kapiolani Blvd., Rm 1110, Honolulu, HI
96814–4700; phone (808)944–2200; fax
(808)973–2941;
Northeast Region, NMFS, 55 Great
Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930;
phone (978)281–9300; fax (978)281–
9333; and
Southeast Region, NMFS, 263 13th
Avenue South, Saint Petersburg, Florida
33701; phone (727)824–5312; fax
(727)824–5309.
Dated: November 5, 2009.
P. Michael Payne,
Chief, Permits, Conservation and Education
Division, Office of Protected Resources,
National Marine Fisheries Service.
[FR Doc. E9–27185 Filed 11–10–09; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3510–22–S
PO 00000
Frm 00007
Fmt 4703
Sfmt 4703
58245
DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration
RIN 0648–XS83
Endangered and Threatened Species:
Recovery Plan Preparation for the
Threatened Southern Distinct
Population Segment of North American
Green Sturgeon
AGENCY: National Marine Fisheries
Service (NMFS), National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration (NOAA),
Commerce.
ACTION: Notice of intent to prepare a
recovery plan; request for information.
SUMMARY: NMFS announces its intent to
develop a recovery plan for the
Southern Distinct Population Segment
of North American green sturgeon
(Acipenser medirostris; hereafter, ‘‘sDPS
green sturgeon’’) and also requests
information from the public. The sDPS
green sturgeon is listed as threatened
under the Endangered Species Act
(ESA). NMFS is required by the ESA to
develop and implement recovery plans
for the conservation and survival of
ESA-listed species. NMFS will be
coordinating with state, Federal, tribal,
and local entities in California, Oregon,
Washington, Canada, and Alaska to
develop the recovery plan.
DATES: Information related to this notice
will be accepted, and incorporated
appropriately, at any time during the
recovery planning process. However,
the first meeting of the recovery team is
scheduled for December 10–11, 2009,
and therefore information must be
received by December 8, 2009, to be
included during that meeting. In order
to best facilitate a smooth process,
NMFS strongly encourages public
participation as early as possible. An
initial meeting with stakeholders is
likely to occur in early 2010.
ADDRESSES: You may submit
information by any of the following
methods:
• E-mail: Information may be
submitted by e-mail to
swrsturgeon.recovery@noaa.gov. Include
in the subject line of the e-mail the
following identifier: Information for
sDPS green sturgeon recovery plan.
• Mail: David Woodbury, National
Marine Fisheries Service, Southwest
Region, 777 Sonoma Avenue, Santa
Rosa, CA 95404–4731.
• Fax: (707) 578–3435, Attention:
David Woodbury.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
David Woodbury, NMFS Southwest
Region, at (707) 575–6088 or
David.P.Woodbury@noaa.gov.
E:\FR\FM\12NON1.SGM
12NON1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 74, Number 217 (Thursday, November 12, 2009)]
[Notices]
[Pages 58243-58245]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E9-27185]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
RIN 0648-XS81
Marine Mammals; File Nos. 14682, 10018, 13846, 14451, 14585,
14599, 14122, 14296, 14353
AGENCY: National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Commerce.
ACTION: Notice; receipt of applications.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: Notice is hereby given that NMFS has received nine
applications for permits or permit amendments to conduct research on
marine mammals. See SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION for additional
information regarding applicants and specific information on species
affected.
DATES: Written, telefaxed, or e-mail comments must be received on or
before December 14, 2009.
ADDRESSES: The applications and related documents are available for
review by selecting ``Records Open for Public Comment'' from the
Features box on the Applications and Permits for Protected Species
(APPS) home page, https://apps.nmfs.noaa.gov, and then selecting the
associated File No. from the list of available applications.
These documents are also available upon written request or by
appointment in the offices listed in SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION.
Written comments or requests for a public hearing on these
applications should be mailed to the Chief, Permits, Conservation and
Education Division, F/PR1, Office of Protected Resources, NMFS, 1315
East-West Highway, Room 13705, Silver Spring, MD 20910. Those
individuals requesting a hearing should set forth the specific reasons
why a hearing on this particular request would be appropriate.
Comments may also be submitted by facsimile at (301)713-0376,
provided the facsimile is confirmed by hard copy submitted by mail and
postmarked no later than the closing date of the comment period.
Comments may also be submitted by e-mail. The mailbox address for
providing e-mail comments is NMFS.Pr1Comments@noaa.gov. Include in the
subject line of the e-mail comment the associated File Number.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: The following Analysts at (301)713-
2289:
For File No. 14682: Kristy Beard or Carrie Hubard; File No. 10018:
Carrie Hubard or Kristy Beard; File No. 13846: Amy Hapeman or Kristy
Beard; File No. 14451: Kate Swails or Kristy Beard; File No. 14585: Amy
Hapeman or Kristy Beard; File No. 14599: Amy Sloan or Kristy Beard;
File No. 14122: Amy Sloan or Kristy Beard; File No. 14296: Kristy Beard
or Jennifer Skidmore; File No. 14353: Carrie Hubard or Kristy Beard.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The subject permits and permit amendment are
requested under the authority of the Marine Mammal Protection Act of
1972, as amended (MMPA; 16 U.S.C. 1361 et seq.), the regulations
governing the taking and importing of marine mammals (50 CFR part 216),
the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (ESA; 16 U.S.C. 1531 et
seq.), and the regulations governing the taking, importing, and
exporting of endangered and threatened species (50 CFR 222-226).
Each of the nine applications is summarized below. For specific
take numbers of each species, please refer to the associated
application.
Whitlow Au, Ph.D. [File No. 14682], University of Hawaii, Hawaii
Institute of Marine Biology, Marine Mammal Research Program, PO Box
1106, Kailua, HI 96734, requests a five-year permit to investigate the
population dynamics and behavior of cetaceans around Hawaii and the
Pacific, to determine aspects of the behavior and use of the acoustic
environment by large whales, and to determine the effects of noise on
behavior of cetaceans around Hawaii. Researchers would conduct
behavioral observations, photo-identification, genetic sampling,
suction-cup tagging, acoustic recording, and acoustic playbacks from
vessels. Target species would be: Blainville's beaked whale
[[Page 58244]]
(Mesoplodon densirostris), Cuvier's beaked whale (Ziphius cavirostris),
killer whale (Orcinus orca), humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae),
dwarf sperm whale (Kogia sima), pygmy sperm whale (K. breviceps),
short-finned pilot whale (Globicephala macrorhynchus), false killer
whale (Pseudorca crassidens), pygmy killer whale (Feresa attenuata),
melon-headed whale (Peponocephala electra), long-beaked common dolphin
(Delphinus capensis), short-beaked common dolphin (D. delphis), striped
dolphin (Stenella coeruleoalba), spinner dolphin (S. longirostris),
pantropical spotted dolphin (S. attenuata), bottlenose dolphin
(Turisiops truncatus), Risso's dolphin (Grampus griseus), Pacific
white-sided dolphin (Lagenorhynchus obliquidens), and rough-toothed
dolphin (Steno bredanensis).
Rachel Cartwright, Ph.D. [File No. 10018], Keiki Kohola Project,
5277 West Wooley Road, Oxnard, CA 93035, requests an amendment to
Permit No. 10018, issued on June 18, 2008 (73 FR 36042). Dr. Cartwright
is currently authorized to conduct humpback whale research, consisting
of photo-identification, focal follows, underwater observations, and
collection of sloughed skin, in Hawaiian waters. The permit holder now
requests authorization to conduct similar research in Alaskan waters
from May through September each year. The purpose of the amendment is
to broaden the current study on humpback whale female-calf behavior and
habitat choice. Field work would be based out of Kake, Alaska and
focused primarily in Chatham Straits, Frederick Sound, Sumner Strait,
Lynn Canal and Icy Strait. Humpback whales of all ages, including
calves, would be harassed during surveys and the associated photo-
identification, passive acoustics, and behavioral observations. Four
other species of cetaceans (killer whales, Pacific white-sided
dolphins, and harbor (Phocoena phocoena) and Dall's porpoises
(Phocoenoides dalli)) may be incidentally harassed during the research.
Any killer whales observed would be photographed for identification
purposes. The amended permit would expire on June 30, 2013.
Jim Darling, Ph.D. [File No. 13846], Whale Trust, P.O. Box 384,
Tofino, BC V0R2Z0, Canada, requests a five-year permit to study the
social organization, behavior and communication of humpback whales in
Hawaii (primarily off west Maui), and the population biology, ecology,
and behavior of humpback and Eastern gray (Eschrichtius robustus)
whales along the coastlines of Washington and Alaska. Researchers would
conduct photo-identification, passive acoustic recording, behavioral
observation (by vessel, underwater and aerial), video-recording,
collection of sloughed skin, photogrammetry, biopsy sampling, playback
experiments, and suction-cup and implant tagging of target whales.
Whales of all ages would be harassed during surveys with the exceptions
that only juvenile and adult humpbacks would be biopsy sampled and only
adult humpbacks would be tagged. In Hawaii, spinner dolphins,
pantropical spotted dolphins, bottlenose dolphins and false killer
whales may be incidentally harassed during research. Killer whales and
Steller sea lions (Eumetopias jubatus) may be incidentally harassed in
Washington or Alaskan waters during research.
Joseph Mobley, Jr. [File No. 14451], University of Hawaii at Manoa,
2528 McCarthy Mall, Honolulu, HI 96816, requests a five-year permit to
investigate short and long-term changes in population size, habitat
use, and behavior of cetaceans off the coast of eastern and western
United States, Hawaii, Alaska, Guam, and the Mariana Islands.
Researchers would conduct aerial and vessel surveys, photo-
identification, videography, and behavioral observations. Research
would target numerous cetacean species including endangered blue whales
(Balaenoptera musculus), fin whales (B. physalus), humpback whales, sei
whales (B. borealis) and sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus).
Adam Pack, Ph.D. [File No. 14585], University of Hawaii at Hilo,
200 West Kawili St., Hilo, HI, 96720, requests a five-year permit to
continue long-term population studies of humpback whales and other
cetacean species in the Eastern, Western and Central North Pacific
Ocean, primarily Hawaii and Alaska. These studies include: (1) photo-
identification to determine individual life histories, social role,
migration, habitat use, distribution, and reproductive states; (2)
underwater videogrammetry to determine the body sizes of animals in
different social roles; (3) underwater videography to document
behaviors and social interactions, and to aid in sex determination; (4)
passive acoustic recordings of song to trace the evolution of song in
Hawaii and to examine acoustic characteristics of song in relation to
singer size and life history; (5) passive acoustic recordings of non-
song vocalizations to determine acoustic properties, contexts, and
functions; (6) Crittercam studies of humpbacks in different group types
to help in the understanding of the humpback mating system; and (7)
skin and blubber biopsy sampling for sex determination, and for health
assessment. In addition to humpback whales, the following species may
be opportunistically studied or incidentally harassed during surveys:
bottlenose dolphin, spinner dolphin, spotted dolphin, Risso's dolphin,
false killer whale, melon-headed whale, pygmy killer whale, rough
toothed dolphin, pilot whale, striped dolphin, pygmy and dwarf sperm
whales, killer whale, sperm whale, North Pacific right whale (Eubalaena
japonica), fin whale, blue whale, Cuvier's beaked whale, minke whale
(B. acutorostrata), sei whale, Bryde's whale (B. edeni), Fraser's
dolphin (Lagenodelphis hosei) and Blainville's beaked whale.
Fred A. Sharpe, Ph.D. [File No. 14599], Alaska Whale Foundation,
4739 University Way NE 1239, Seattle WA 98105, requests a
five-year permit to conduct research on the social complexity of
Alaskan humpback whale bubble feeding to gain insight into the manner
in which environmental and social factors shape this behavior. Research
would be conducted annually and include approaches to individuals for:
(1) photo-identification; (2) acoustic recordings; (3) sonar profiling;
(4) pole cam observations; (5) broadcasting sounds to individuals; (6)
attachment of suction cup tags; (7) aerial observations; (8) SCUBA
observations; and (9) opportunistic collection of fecal material. Most
activities would be conducted independently; however, photo-
identification would occur before or after most other activities, and
some playbacks would be broadcast concurrently to tagged individuals to
document received levels and subsurface movements. No impacts to non-
target species are anticipated. The applicant is also requesting
opportunistic approaches to killer whales for photo-identification. The
proposed activities are part of an ongoing study, and ouldl be
conducted in the waters of Southeast Alaska, primarily from mid-May to
mid-October.
Jan Straley [File No. 14122], University of Alaska Southeast Sitka
Campus, 1332 Seward Ave., Sitka, AK 99835, requests a five-year permit
to study the biology of large whales in Alaskan waters to: (1) continue
and expand a study of humpback whales including takes by close
approach/disturbance, biological sampling, suction cup and satellite
tagging and acoustic playbacks; (2) study sperm whale movements,
foraging behavior and depredation on longline fishing gear to reduce
interactions involving takes by close approach/disturbance, biological
sampling, suction cup and satellite
[[Page 58245]]
tagging, fishing modifications and acoustic playbacks; (3) study killer
whale seasonal movements, foraging, migration patterns and depredation,
including takes by close approach/disturbance, biological sampling,
suction cup and satellite tagging and acoustic playbacks; (4) enhance
the body of knowledge, stock structure and current status through
research activities involving close approach/disturbance, biological
sampling and tagging of gray, minke, fin, sei, blue, and North Pacific
right whales; and (5) study killer whale predation events, photograph,
observe, collect tissue samples, incidentally harass and collect dead
parts from prey including: humpback, gray, minke, sei and fin whales,
harbor porpoise, Dall's porpoise, Pacific white-sided dolphin, Northern
fur seal (Callorhinus ursinus), Steller sea lion, and harbor seal
(Phoca vitulina).
Briana Witteveen, Ph.D. [File No. 14296], University of Alaska
Fairbanks, School of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, 118 Trident Way,
Kodiak, AK 99615, requests a five-year permit to conduct scientific
research on cetaceans year-round in the Gulf of Alaska, with emphasis
on examining prey use and foraging patterns of gray, fin, humpback, and
killer whales and exploring the responses of humpback whales to
acoustic deterrent devices. Takes would occur by close approach to
collect photographs, recordings of vocalizations, biopsy samples, prey
parts, sloughed skin, to attach suction cup tags, and to document
response to acoustic deterrents. Sei, blue, minke, sperm, and right
whales would be taken by close approach to collect photographs and
biopsy samples. Other species of marine mammals might be incidentally
harassed during research activities.
Ann Zoidis [File No. 14353], Cetos Research Organization, 33 Echo
Ave., Suite 5, Oakland, CA 94611, requests a five-year permit to
conduct scientific research on humpback and minke whales in Hawaiian
waters. Research would occur January through March. Humpback whale
research would be focused in the Au'au Channel near Maui. The
objectives of the research are to examine: (1) underwater activity
budgets of humpback whales, including during non-daylight hours; (2)
mother/calf/escort interactions, including sound production and vocal/
behavioral responses to sounds by conspecifics; (3) habitat use; and
(4) any behavioral and/or acoustic reactions to passing vessel traffic.
Research activities would include photo-identification, behavioral
observations, passive acoustic recording, and underwater photo/
videography. Suction cup tags would be deployed on humpback whales,
including calves. Minke whales would be approached for photo-
identification anywhere within the main Hawaiian islands. Twelve other
cetacean species may be incidentally harassed during research
activities.
In compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969
(42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.), an environmental assessment (EA) will be
prepared to examine whether significant environmental impacts could
result from issuance of the proposed scientific research permits and
permit amendment.
Concurrent with the publication of this notice in the Federal
Register, NMFS is forwarding copies of these applications to the Marine
Mammal Commission and its Committee of Scientific Advisors.
Documents may be reviewed in the following locations:
Permits, Conservation and Education Division, Office of Protected
Resources, NMFS, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 13705, Silver Spring, MD
20910; phone (301)713-2289; fax (301)713-0376;
Northwest Region, NMFS, 7600 Sand Point Way NE, BIN C15700, Bldg.
1, Seattle, WA 98115-0700; phone (206)526-6150; fax (206)526-6426;
Alaska Region, NMFS, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802-1668; phone
(907)586-7221; fax (907)586-7249;
Southwest Region, NMFS, 501 West Ocean Blvd., Suite 4200, Long
Beach, CA 90802-4213; phone (562)980-4001; fax (562)980-4018;
Pacific Islands Region, NMFS, 1601 Kapiolani Blvd., Rm 1110,
Honolulu, HI 96814-4700; phone (808)944-2200; fax (808)973-2941;
Northeast Region, NMFS, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA
01930; phone (978)281-9300; fax (978)281-9333; and
Southeast Region, NMFS, 263 13th Avenue South, Saint Petersburg,
Florida 33701; phone (727)824-5312; fax (727)824-5309.
Dated: November 5, 2009.
P. Michael Payne,
Chief, Permits, Conservation and Education Division, Office of
Protected Resources, National Marine Fisheries Service.
[FR Doc. E9-27185 Filed 11-10-09; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3510-22-S
