Takes of Marine Mammals Incidental to Specified Activities; Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to Marine Site Characterization Surveys off of New York and New Jersey, 21289-21298 [2021-08354]

Agencies

• DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
• National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 76 (Thursday, April 22, 2021)]
[Notices]
[Pages 21289-21298]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2021-08354]


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DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

[RTID 0648-XB005]


Takes of Marine Mammals Incidental to Specified Activities; 
Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to Marine Site Characterization 
Surveys off of New York and New Jersey

AGENCY: National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Commerce.

ACTION: Notice; issuance of Renewal incidental harassment 
authorization.

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SUMMARY: In accordance with the regulations implementing the Marine 
Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), as amended, notification is hereby given 
that NMFS has issued a Renewal incidental harassment authorization 
(IHA) to Atlantic Shores Offshore Wind, LLC (Atlantic Shores) to 
incidentally harass marine mammals incidental to marine site 
characterization surveys off the coasts of New York and New Jersey in 
the area of the Commercial Lease of Submerged Lands for Renewable 
Energy Development on the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS-A 0499) and 
along potential submarine cable routes to a landfall location in New 
York or New Jersey.

DATES: This Renewal IHA is valid for one year from date of issuance.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Jaclyn Daly, Office of Protected 
Resources, NMFS, (301) 427-8401. Electronic copies of the original 
application, Renewal request, and supporting documents (including NMFS 
Federal Register notifications of the original proposed and final 
authorizations, and the previous IHA), as well as a list of the 
references cited in this document, may be obtained online at: https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/permit/incidental-take-authorizations-under-marine-mammal-protection-act. In case of problems accessing these 
documents, please call the contact listed above.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Background

    The Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) prohibits the ``take'' of 
marine mammals, with certain exceptions. Sections 101(a)(5)(A) and (D) 
of the MMPA (16 U.S.C. 1361 et seq.) direct the Secretary of Commerce 
(as delegated to NMFS) to allow, upon request, the incidental, but not 
intentional, taking of small numbers of marine mammals by U.S. citizens 
who engage in a specified activity (other than commercial fishing) 
within a specified geographical region if certain findings are made and 
either regulations are issued or, if the taking is limited to 
harassment, a notice of a proposed incidental take authorization is 
provided to the public for review.
    Authorization for incidental takings shall be granted if NMFS finds 
that the taking will have a negligible impact on the species or 
stock(s) and will not have an unmitigable adverse impact on the 
availability of the species or stock(s) for taking for subsistence uses 
(where relevant). Further, NMFS must prescribe the permissible methods 
of taking and other ``means of effecting the least practicable adverse 
impact'' on the affected species or stocks and their habitat, paying 
particular attention to rookeries, mating grounds, and areas of similar 
significance, and on the availability of such species or stocks for 
taking for certain subsistence uses (referred to here as ``mitigation 
measures''). Monitoring and reporting of such takings are also 
required. The meaning of key terms such as ``take,'' ``harassment,'' 
and ``negligible impact'' can be found in section 3 of the MMPA (16 
U.S.C. 1362) and the agency's regulations at 50 CFR 216.103.
    NMFS' regulations implementing the MMPA at 50 CFR 216.107(e) 
indicate that IHAs may be renewed for additional periods of time not to 
exceed one year for each reauthorization. In the notice of proposed IHA 
for the initial authorization, NMFS described the circumstances under 
which we would consider issuing a Renewal for this activity, and 
requested public comment on a potential Renewal under those 
circumstances. Specifically, on a case-by-case basis, NMFS may issue a 
one-time one-year Renewal IHA following notice to the public providing 
an additional 15 days for public comments when (1) up to another year 
of identical or nearly identical, or nearly identical, activities as 
described in the Specified Activities section of this document is 
planned or (2) the activities as described in the Specified Activities 
section of this document would not be completed by the time the initial 
IHA expires and a Renewal would allow for completion of the activities 
beyond that described in the DATES section of the notice of issuance of 
the initial IHA, provided all of the following conditions are met:
     A request for renewal is received no later than 60 days 
prior to the needed Renewal IHA effective date (recognizing that the 
Renewal IHA expiration date cannot extend beyond one year from 
expiration of the initial IHA);
     The request for renewal must include the following:
    (1) An explanation that the activities to be conducted under the 
requested Renewal IHA are identical to the activities analyzed under 
the initial IHA, are a subset of the activities, or include changes so 
minor (e.g., reduction in pile size) that the changes do not affect the 
previous analyses, mitigation and monitoring requirements, or take 
estimates (with the exception of reducing the type or amount of take); 
and
    (2) A preliminary monitoring report showing the results of the 
required monitoring to date and an explanation showing that the 
monitoring results do not indicate impacts of a scale or nature not 
previously analyzed or authorized; and
     Upon review of the request for Renewal, the status of the 
affected species or stocks, and any other pertinent information, NMFS 
determines that there are no more than minor changes in the activities, 
the mitigation and monitoring measures will remain the same and 
appropriate, and the findings in the initial IHA remain valid.
    An additional public comment period of 15 days (for a total of 45 
days), with direct notice by email, phone, or postal service to 
commenters on the initial IHA, is provided to allow for any additional 
comments on the proposed Renewal. A description of the Renewal process 
may be found on our website at: www.fisheries.noaa.gov/national/marine-mammal-protection/incidental-harassment-authorization-renewals.

History of Request

    On April 10, 2020, NMFS issued an IHA to Atlantic Shores to take 
marine mammals incidental to marine site characterization surveys off 
the coast of New York and New Jersey (85 FR 21198), effective from 
April 20, 2020

[[Page 21290]]

through April 19, 2021. On February 3, 2021, NMFS received a request 
from Atlantic Shores for the renewal of that initial IHA so that 
Atlantic Shores can continue its survey activities beyond April 19, 
2021. As described in the request for the renewal IHA, the activities 
for which incidental take is requested are identical to those covered 
in the initial authorization. As required, the applicant also provided 
a preliminary monitoring report (available at https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/action/incidental-take-authorization-atlantic-shores-offshore-wind-llc-marine-site-characterization) which confirms 
that the applicant has implemented the required mitigation and 
monitoring, and which also shows that no impacts of a scale or nature 
not previously analyzed or authorized have occurred as a result of the 
activities conducted.

Description of the Specified Activities and Anticipated Impacts

    Atlantic Shores proposes to conduct a second year of marine site 
characterization surveys, consisting of high-resolution geophysical 
(HRG) and geotechnical surveys, within the 183,353-acre Lease Area, 
located approximately 18 nautical miles southeast of Atlantic City, New 
Jersey, and proposed Export Cable Route (ECRs) corridors from the Lease 
Area to shore landing locations along the coast of New Jersey and New 
York. The purpose of the HRG and geotechnical surveys is to support 
site characterization, siting, and engineering design of offshore 
Project facilities including wind turbine generators (WTGs), offshore 
substation(s), and submarine cables within the Lease Area and proposed 
ECR Areas. Atlantic Shores requested renewal of the initial IHA that 
was issued by NMFS in April 2020 on the basis that (1) up to another 
year of identical or nearly identical, activities as described in the 
Specified Activities section of the initial IHA is planned and, (2) the 
activities as described in the Specified Activities section of the 
initial IHA would not be completed by the time the IHA expires and a 
renewal would allow for completion of the activities beyond that 
described in the Dates and Duration section of the initial IHA.
    In their 2020 IHA application, Atlantic Shores estimated it would 
conduct surveys for 350 days at a rate of 85 kilometers (km) per day 
for a total of 29,750 km. However, in 2020, Atlantic Shores completed 
only 16,893 km of geophysical surveys; therefore, approximately 12,857 
km remain to be surveyed. Atlantic Shores also recognized they were 
able to survey approximately 55 km per day versus the predicted rate of 
85 km per day considered in the initial IHA. Therefore, Atlantic Shores 
predicts the 12,857 km of survey planned in 2021 under the renewal IHA 
will occur over 234 days (12,857 km/55 km per day). The renewal IHA 
would authorize harassment to marine mammals for this remaining survey 
distance using survey methods identical to those described in the 
initial IHA application, hence the anticipated effects on marine 
mammals remain the same as well. All active acoustic sources and 
mitigation and monitoring measures would remain as described in the 
initial IHA. The amount of take requested for the renewal IHA reflects 
the amount of remaining work in consideration of marine mammal 
monitoring data from the 2020 survey season resulting in equal or less 
take than that authorized in the initial IHA.

Detailed Description of the Activity

    A detailed description of the survey activities for which take is 
authorized here may be found in the Federal Register notices of the 
proposed IHA (85 FR 7926, February 12, 2020) and issued IHA (85 FR 
21198, April 10, 2020) for the initial authorization. The location and 
nature of the activities, including the types of equipment planned for 
use, are identical to those described in the previous notifications. As 
described in the notice of proposed IHA (86 FR 16327, March 29, 2021), 
because part of the work has already been completed, the duration of 
the surveys conducted under the renewal IHA will occur over less time 
than that described for the initial IHA (234 days versus 350 days). The 
Renewal IHA is effective for a period of one year from the date of 
issuance.

Description of Marine Mammals

    A description of the marine mammals in the area of the activities 
for which authorization of take is authorized here, including 
information on abundance, status, distribution, and hearing, may be 
found in the Federal Register notice of the proposed IHA for the 
initial authorization (85 FR 7926, February 12, 2020). NMFS has 
reviewed the monitoring data from the initial IHA, recent draft Stock 
Assessment Reports, information on relevant Unusual Mortality Events, 
and other scientific literature, and determined that neither this nor 
any other new information affects which species or stocks have the 
potential to be affected or the pertinent information in the 
Description of the Marine Mammals in the Area of Specified Activities 
contained in the supporting documents for the initial IHA.

Potential Effects on Marine Mammals and Their Habitat

    A description of the potential effects of the specified activity on 
marine mammals and their habitat for the activities for which take is 
authorized here may be found in the Federal Register notice of the 
proposed IHA for the initial authorization (85 FR 7926, February 12, 
2020). NMFS has reviewed the monitoring data from the initial IHA, 
recent draft Stock Assessment Reports, information on relevant Unusual 
Mortality Events, and other scientific literature, and determined that 
neither this nor any other new information affects our initial analysis 
of impacts on marine mammals and their habitat.

Estimated Take

    A detailed description of the methods used to estimate take for the 
specified activity are found in the Federal Register notices of the 
proposed and final IHA for the initial authorization. The acoustic 
source types, as well as source levels and marine mammal density and 
occurrence data applicable to this authorization remain unchanged from 
the initial IHA. Similarly, the stocks taken, methods of take, and type 
of take (i.e., Level B harassment only) remain unchanged from the 
initial IHA.
    In the initial IHA application submitted in 2019 for the 2020 HRG 
survey activities, Atlantic Shores used the following parameters to 
estimate the potential for take: (1) Maximum number of days of survey 
that could occur over a 12-month period in each of the identified 
survey areas; (2) maximum distance each vessel could travel per 24-hour 
period in each of the identified survey areas; (3) maximum ensonified 
area (zone of influence (ZOI)); and (4) maximum marine mammal densities 
for any given season that a survey could occur. The calculated radial 
distances to the Level B harassment threshold (160 decibel (dB) root 
mean square (rms)) from a survey vessel are included in Table 1.

[[Page 21291]]



Table 1--Modeled Radial Distances From HRG Survey Equipment to Isopleths
  Corresponding to Level A Harassment and Level B Harassment Thresholds
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                                                            Distance to
                                                              level B
                      Sound source                          harassment
                                                           threshold (m)
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Kongsberg EA 400........................................             172
Teledyne ODOM Echotrac CVM..............................             173
Applied Acoustics Dura-Spark 240........................             372
Edgetech 2000-DSS.......................................               4
Edgetech 216............................................               5
Edgetech 424............................................               6
Edgetech 512i...........................................               7
Teledyne Benthos Chirp III..............................              71
Kongsberg GeoPulse......................................             231
Innomar SES-2000 Medium-100 Parametric..................             116
Applied Acoustics S-Boom Triple Plate...................              97
Applied Acoustics S-Boom................................              56
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The equation for estimating take for all species remains the same 
as the initial IHA:

Estimated Take = D x ZOI x # of days

Where: D = species density (per km\2\) and ZOI = maximum daily 
ensonified area

    In the original 2019 IHA application, Atlantic Shores calculated a 
conservative ZOI by applying the maximum radial distance for any 
category and type of HRG survey equipment considered in its assessment 
to the mobile source ZOI calculation. This maximum calculated distance 
to the Level B harassment threshold for the sparker of 372 m was also 
used to calculate the ZOI for the requested extension. The resulting 
ZOI is 41.36 square kilometers (km\2\).
    This methodology of calculating take in the initial IHA applies to 
the issued renewal IHA for all species, with the only difference being 
the fewer amount of days (i.e., 234 versus 350). The result is that the 
amount of take is reduced proportionally to the reduction in the number 
of days of work remaining. As was done in the initial IHA, in some 
cases, Atlantic Shores has requested a modification to the calculated 
take for some species given it does not account for group size. In 
other cases, the authorized amount of take is modified from the 
calculated take based on observations during the 2020 surveys. Other 
than in the instances described below, NMFS agrees with Atlantic 
Shores' request for take and we authorized the same amount of take as 
described in their request.
    As described in the renewal IHA request, large groups of common 
dolphins commonly approached the HRG survey vessels to bow ride during 
the 2020 surveys. Despite completing approximately 56.7 percent of the 
planned survey distance, Atlantic Shores reported using 67.3 percent of 
total take authorized in the initial IHA for this species. In 2019, the 
IHA application used seasonal density data to calculate requested take 
for 544 common dolphins. However, 2020 survey activities resulted in 
366 takes accumulated for this species, which involved 58 common 
dolphin detection events where the mean pod size reported was 6.79. For 
the 2021 surveys, Atlantic Shores requested 406 common dolphin takes 
based on an encounter rate similar to that observed in 2020 (58 
detection events x 7 animals/group). However, to ensure adequate take 
coverage should the surveys encounter greater numbers than expected, 
NMFS authorized the same amount of take of common dolphins as 
authorized in the initial IHA (544). Recently, NMFS has modified other 
HRG IHAs in the same geographic region due to underestimates of take 
for bowriding dolphins (e.g., 86 FR 13695, March 10, 2021; 85 FR 55415, 
September 8, 2020). Because of these experiences, we have determined 
this approach is necessary to ensure take is not exceeded.
    In the initial IHA application, Atlantic Shores also adjusted 
calculated take (per the equation above) to consider group size for 
Risso's dolphin, Atlantic spotted dolphins, and long-finned pilot 
whales, specifically increasing from the very small calculated take to 
cover at least one group, based on the average group size. As described 
in Atlantic Shores' interim monitoring report, they did not observe any 
of these species during the 2020 surveys. Therefore, we have authorized 
the same amount of take as proposed in the initial IHA. Atlantic Shores 
is also requesting the same amount of sei whale take as authorized in 
the previous IHA based on an encounter during 2020 survey operations 
where a single sei whale surfaced inside the Level B exposure zone 
resulting in a take.
    Finally, during consideration of this renewal request, an error in 
the application information supporting the harbor porpoise take 
estimate was identified. Specifically, the density for harbor porpoise 
was accurate; however, the calculated take for each lease area was 
incorrectly reported which led to an inaccurate total take amount. The 
amount of take authorized in the 2020 IHA was 115 when it should have 
been 847 based on the method used. The correct take estimate for the 
remaining survey lines covered under the renewal, using that same 
method, would be 266 takes of harbor porpoise. However, zero harbor 
porpoises were detected during the 2020 surveys, suggesting that the 
corrected estimate would likely be an overestimate and the number of 
takes authorized in the initial IHA is sufficient, and therefore the 
IHA authorizes the same number of harbor porpoise take included in the 
initial IHA (115).

                      Table 2--Initial IHA Take Authorized and Renewal IHA Authorized Take
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                                                                        Level B harassment
                                                                 --------------------------------
                             Species                                   Take         Authorized      Percent of
                                                                    authorized     take renewal   population \5\
                                                                    initial IHA         IHA
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
North Atlantic right whale......................................               9               8             1.9
Humpback whale..................................................              18               8              <1
Fin whale.......................................................              20               9              <1
Sei whale.......................................................               2           \1\ 2              <1
Minke whale.....................................................               9               5              <1
Sperm whale.....................................................               3               1              <1
Long-finned pilot whale.........................................               6           \2\ 6              <1
Bottlenose dolphin (W.N. Atlantic Coastal Migratory)............           1,102             663             9.9
Bottlenose dolphin (W.N. Atlantic Offshore).....................           5,113            2408             3.8
Common dolphin..................................................             544         \3\ 544              <1
Atlantic white-sided dolphin....................................              82          \4\ 42              <1

[[Page 21292]]

 
Atlantic spotted dolphin........................................             100          \2\ 50              <1
Risso's Dolphin.................................................               6           \2\ 6              <1
Harbor porpoise.................................................             115         \2\ 115              <1
Harbor seal.....................................................           1,404             529              <1
Gray seal.......................................................           1,404             529             1.9
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Adjusted from 1 to 2 animals based on 2020 field observations.
\2\ Adjusted from calculated and requested take considering these species were not observed during the 2020
  surveys.
\3\ Atlantic Shores requested fewer takes than authorized in the IHA; however, we authorized the same amount of
  take authorized in the initial IHA to account for the propensity for this species to bowride and travel in
  large groups.
\4\ Adjusted from calculated take to account for group size.
\5\ Population numbers in the initial IHA were generated from the Draft 2020 Stock Assessment Reports and remain
  valid to calculate percent of population here (NMFS, 2021).

Description of Mitigation, Monitoring and Reporting Measures

    The mitigation, monitoring, and reporting measures included as 
requirements in the Renewal IHA are identical to those included in the 
Federal Register notification announcing the issuance of the initial 
IHA (85 FR 21198, April 10, 2020), and the discussion of how we reached 
a least practicable adverse impact determination included in that 
document remains applicable. All mitigation, monitoring and reporting 
measures in the initial IHA are carried over to this renewal IHA and 
summarized here:
     Ramp-up: a ramp-up procedure would be used for geophysical 
survey equipment capable of adjusting energy levels at the start or re-
start of survey activities;
     Protected Species Observers: A minimum of one NMFS-
approved Protected Species Observer (PSO) must be on duty and 
conducting visual observations at all times during daylight hours 
(i.e., from 30 minutes prior to sunrise through 30 minutes following 
sunset) and 30 minutes prior to and during nighttime ramp-ups of HRG 
equipment;
     Exclusion Zones (EZ): Marine mammal EZ would be 
established around the HRG survey equipment and monitored by PSO during 
HRG surveys as follows: A 500-m EZ would be required for North Atlantic 
right whales and a 100-m EZ would be required for all other marine 
mammals;
     Pre-Operation Clearance Protocols: Prior to initiating HRG 
survey activities, Atlantic Shores would implement a 30-minute pre-
operation clearance period. Ramp-up of the survey equipment would not 
begin until the relevant EZs have been cleared by the PSOs, as 
described above. HRG equipment would be initiated at their lowest power 
output and would be incrementally increased to full power. If any 
marine mammals are detected within the EZs prior to or during ramp-up, 
the HRG equipment would be shut down (as described below);
     Shutdown of HRG Equipment: If an HRG source is active and 
a marine mammal is observed within or entering a relevant EZ (as 
described above) an immediate shutdown of the HRG survey equipment 
would be required. Note this shutdown requirement would be waived for 
certain genera of small delphinids;
     Vessel strike avoidance measures: separation distances for 
large whales (500 m NAWRD, 100 m other large whales; 50 m other 
cetaceans and pinnipeds); restricted vessel speeds and operational 
maneuvers; and
     Reporting: Atlantic Shores will submit a marine mammal 
report within 90 days following completion of the surveys.

Comments and Responses

    A notification of NMFS' proposal to issue a Renewal IHA to Atlantic 
Shores was published in the Federal Register March 29, 2021 (86 FR 
16327). That notification either described, or referenced descriptions 
of, Atlantic Shores' activity, the marine mammal species that may be 
affected by the activity, the anticipated effects on marine mammals and 
their habitat, estimated amount and manner of take, and mitigation, 
monitoring and reporting measures. During the 30-day comment period, 
NMFS received an email from the Long Beach Island, New Jersey, 
Coalition for Wind Without Impact (Coalition) that included a comment 
letter signed by a group of environmental non-governmental 
organizations (ENGOs) including the, Natural Resources Defense Council, 
Conservation Law Foundation, National Wildlife Federation, Defenders of 
Wildlife, Southern Environmental Law Center, Wildlife Conservation 
Society, Surfrider Foundation, Mass Audubon, Friends of the Earth, 
International Fund for Animal Welfare, NY4WHALES, WDC Whale and Dolphin 
Conservation, Marine Mammal Alliance Nantucket, Gotham Whale, All Our 
Energy, Seatuck Environmental Association, and Inland Ocean Coalition. 
We note the Coalition was not a signatory to the letter and the letter 
was dated September 9, 2020 (approximately 7 months prior to our notice 
of the proposed Renewal IHA to Atlantic Shores). However, because the 
Coalition indicated that letter reflected their concerns, we have 
addressed the comments below and have posted the comments online at: 
www.fisheries.noaa.gov/national/marine-mammal-protection/incidental-take-authorizations-other-energy-activities-renewable. Please see the 
letter for full detail and rationale for the comments.
    Comment 1: The ENGOs recommended that NMFS incorporate additional 
data sources into calculations of marine mammal density and take and 
that NMFS must ensure all available data are used to ensure that any 
potential shifts in North Atlantic right whale habitat usage are 
reflected in estimations of marine mammal density and take. The ENGOs 
asserted in general that the density models used by NMFS do not fully 
reflect the abundance, distribution, and density of marine mammals for 
the U.S. East Coast and therefore result in an underestimate of take.
    Response: At the outset of their letter, the ENGOs note that the 
comments reflect overarching concerns regarding NMFS' IHAs for marine 
site characterization survey (including HRG survey) activities required 
for offshore wind energy development, as well as their intention that 
the comments be

[[Page 21293]]

considered in relation to all authorizations associated with marine 
site characterization activities for offshore wind energy off the U.S. 
East Coast. The comments provided in the letter apparently focus 
concern on available data regarding the Massachusetts and Rhode Island 
and Massachusetts Wind Energy Areas, and on North Atlantic right whale 
habitat usage within those areas. As such, the specific comments 
pertaining to those data and right whale habitat usage within those 
areas are not germane to this specific action, i.e., issuance of an IHA 
associated with HRG survey activity off of New York and New Jersey. We 
address the general comments regarding sufficiency of the available 
data on marine mammal occurrence below.
    Habitat-based density models produced by the Duke University Marine 
Geospatial Ecology Lab (MGEL) (Roberts et al. 2016, 2017, 2018, 2020) 
represent the best available scientific information concerning marine 
mammal occurrence within the U.S. Atlantic Ocean. Density models were 
originally developed for all cetacean taxa in the U.S. Atlantic 
(Roberts et al., 2016); more information, including the model results 
and supplementary information for each of those models, is available at 
seamap.env.duke.edu/models/Duke-EC-GOM-2015/. These models provided key 
improvements over previously available information, by incorporating 
additional aerial and shipboard survey data from NMFS and from other 
organizations collected over the period 1992-2014, incorporating 60 
percent more shipboard and 500 percent more aerial survey hours than 
did previously available models; controlling for the influence of sea 
state, group size, availability bias, and perception bias on the 
probability of making a sighting; and modeling density from an expanded 
set of eight physiographic and 16 dynamic oceanographic and biological 
covariates. In subsequent years, certain models have been updated on 
the basis of additional data as well as methodological improvements. In 
addition, a new density model for seals was produced as part of the 
2017-18 round of model updates. Of particular note, Roberts et al. 
(2020) further updated density model results for North Atlantic right 
whales by incorporating additional sighting data and implementing three 
major changes: Increasing spatial resolution, generating monthly 
estimates on three time periods of survey data, and dividing the study 
area into five discrete regions. This most recent update--model version 
9 for North Atlantic right whales--was undertaken with the following 
objectives (Roberts et al., 2020):
     To account for recent changes to right whale 
distributions, the model should be based on survey data that extend 
through 2018, or later if possible. In addition to updates from 
existing collaborators, data should be solicited from two survey 
programs not used in prior model versions:
     Aerial surveys of the Massachusetts and Rhode Island Wind 
Energy Areas led by New England Aquarium (Kraus et al., 2016), spanning 
2011-2015 and 2017-2018;
     Recent surveys of New York waters, either traditional 
aerial surveys initiated by the New York State Department of 
Environmental Conservation in 2017, or digital aerial surveys initiated 
by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority in 
2016, or both;
     To reflect a view in the right whale research community 
that spatiotemporal patterns in right whale density changed around the 
time the species entered a decline in approximately 2010, consider 
basing the new model only on recent years, including contrasting 
``before'' and ``after'' models that might illustrate shifts in 
density, as well as a model spanning both periods, and specifically 
consider which model would best represent right whale density in the 
near future;
     To facilitate better application of the model to near-
shore management questions, extend the spatial extent of the model 
farther in-shore, particularly north of New York; and
     Increase the resolution of the model beyond 10 km, if 
possible.
    All of these objectives were met in developing the most recent 
update to the North Atlantic right whale density model. The commenters 
do not cite this most recent report, and the comments suggest that the 
aforementioned data collected by the New England Aquarium is not 
reflected in the model. Therefore, it is unclear whether the commenters 
are aware of the most recently available data, which is used herein.
    As noted above, NMFS has determined that the Roberts et al. suite 
of density models represent the best available scientific information, 
and we specifically note that the most recent version of the North 
Atlantic right whale model may address some of the specific concerns 
provided by the commenters. However, NMFS acknowledges that there will 
always be additional data that is not reflected in the models and that 
may inform our analyses, whether because the data were not made 
available to the model authors or because the data is more recent than 
the latest model version for a specific taxon. NMFS will review any 
recommended data sources to evaluate their applicability in a 
quantitative sense (e.g., to an estimate of take numbers) and, 
separately, to ensure that relevant information is considered 
qualitatively when assessing the impacts of the specified activity on 
the affected species or stocks and their habitat. NMFS will continue to 
use the best available scientific information, and we welcome future 
input from interested parties on data sources that may be of use in 
analyzing the potential presence and movement patterns of marine 
mammals, including North Atlantic right whales, in U.S. Atlantic 
waters.
    The ENGOs cited several additional sources of information that are 
not reflected in currently available density models, including 
sightings databases and passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) efforts. 
However, no specific recommendations were made with regard to use of 
this information in informing the take estimates. Rather, the 
commenters reference a disparate array of data sources (some which are 
indeed reflected in the most recent models) and suggest that NMFS 
should ``collate and integrate these and more recent data sets to more 
accurately reflect marine mammal presence for future IHAs and other 
work.'' NMFS would welcome in the future constructive suggestions as to 
how these objectives might be more effectively accomplished. NMFS used 
the best scientific information available at the time the analyses for 
the Renewal IHA were conducted, and has considered all available data, 
including sources referenced by the commenters, in reaching its 
determinations in support of issuance of the Renewal IHA requested by 
Atlantic Shores.
    Comment 2: The ENGOs noted that the Roberts et al. model does not 
differentiate between species of pilot whale or seal or between stocks 
of bottlenose dolphin. The ENGOs express concern that, as a result, 
NMFS may not conduct the appropriate species-or stock-specific 
negligible impact analysis. The ENGOs also imply that use of these 
models may produce inaccurate take numbers by stating that 
``[m]iscalculation of take levels based on incomplete data could have 
serious implications for the future conservation of these species and 
stocks.''
    Response: The MMPA requires that species- or stock-specific 
negligible impact determinations be made, and NMFS has done so. In this 
case, NMFS has authorized take numbers specific to each affected 
species or stock. As a

[[Page 21294]]

general matter, NMFS is unaware of any available density data which 
differentiates between species of pilot whales or seals, or stocks of 
bottlenose dolphins. However, lack of such data does not preclude the 
requisite species- or stock-specific findings. In the event that an 
amount of take is authorized at the guild or species level only, e.g., 
for pilot whales or bottlenose dolphins, respectively, NMFS may 
adequately evaluate the effects of the activity by conservatively 
assuming (for example) that all takes authorized for the guild or 
species would accrue to each potentially affected species or stock. In 
this case, NMFS has apportioned the overall take number for bottlenose 
dolphins according to stock, as described in the Estimated Take section 
and, for pilot whales, has assigned take on the basis of an assumed 
group size of 10 for each potentially affected species. NMFS does not 
agree that use of these models is likely to result in miscalculation of 
take levels, and the commenters do not provide support for this 
statement.
    Comment 3: The ENGOs assert that NMFS has not acknowledged the use 
of areas south of Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard as important habitat 
for foraging and social behavior for North Atlantic right whales, but 
rather that NMFS believes the areas are important solely as a migratory 
pathway. The commenters also asserted that NMFS is overly reliant on 
the description of biologically important areas (BIA) provided in 
LaBrecque et al. (2015), stating that ``NMFS should not rely on the 
North Atlantic right whale migratory corridor BIA as the sole indicator 
of habitat importance for the species.''
    Response: The specified activity associated with the IHA addressed 
herein is located off of New York and New Jersey. Therefore, this 
comment is not relevant to issuance of this IHA. However, as a general 
matter, NMFS disagrees with the commenters' assertion. Although NMFS 
has, in other notifications, discussed at length the use of the 
referenced area as a migratory pathway (and recognition of such use 
through the area's description as a BIA for right whales), we have also 
acknowledged the more recent data and its implications for the use of 
the referenced area (see, e.g., 85 FR 63508; December 7, 2018; 86 FR 
11930; March 1, 2021). Similarly, NMFS does not agree with the 
assertion that our understanding of important habitat for marine 
mammals stems solely from existing, described BIAs. NMFS concurs with 
the statement that BIAs are not comprehensive and are intended to be 
periodically reviewed and updated and we routinely review newly 
available information to inform our understanding of important marine 
mammal habitat. In this case, the specified geographical region does 
not include important habitat other than that described as being the 
migratory pathway for right whales.
    Comment 4: The ENGOs commented that the waters off Cape Hatteras, 
North Carolina, have high marine mammal biodiversity and that marine 
mammals occur at unusually high densities off Cape Hatteras compared to 
other areas along the U.S. East Coast. The ENGOs asserted that this 
area demands special attention from NMFS.
    Response: NMFS concurs with the commenters regarding the importance 
of deepwater areas off of Cape Hatteras. However, the specific activity 
associated with the IHA addressed herein does not occur off of Cape 
Hatteras and, in general, the site characterization surveys conducted 
in support of wind energy development that are the subject of the ENGO 
comment letter occur in shallow water (not the area of high 
biodiversity and density referenced by commenters). When appropriate, 
NMFS has accorded special attention to the development of additional 
mitigation for activities conducted in that location (e.g., 83 FR 
63268; December 7, 2018). NMFS uses the best available scientific 
information when analyzing potential impacts to marine mammals and in 
developing prescribed mitigation sufficient to meet the MMPA's ``least 
practicable adverse impact'' standard, and has done so in this case.
    Comment 5: The ENGOs asserted that NMFS must analyze cumulative 
impacts to North Atlantic right whales and other marine mammal species 
and stocks and ensure appropriate mitigation of these cumulative 
impacts. The commenters express particular concern about the cumulative 
impacts of survey activities off Rhode Island and Massachusetts on 
North Atlantic right whales. They further recommended that NMFS develop 
programmatic incidental take regulations applicable to site 
characterization activities.
    Response: Neither the MMPA nor NMFS' codified implementing 
regulations call for consideration of other unrelated activities and 
their impacts on populations. The preamble for NMFS' implementing 
regulations (54 FR 40338; September 29, 1989) states in response to 
comments that the impacts from other past and ongoing anthropogenic 
activities are to be incorporated into the negligible impact analysis 
via their impacts on the baseline. Consistent with that direction, NMFS 
has factored into its negligible impact analysis the impacts of other 
past and ongoing anthropogenic activities via their impacts on the 
baseline, e.g., as reflected in the density/distribution and status of 
the species, population size and growth rate, and other relevant 
stressors. The 1989 implementing regulations also addressed public 
comments regarding cumulative effects from future, unrelated 
activities. There NMFS stated that such effects are not considered in 
making findings under section 101(a)(5) concerning negligible impact. 
In this case, both this IHA, as well as other IHAs currently in effect 
or proposed within the specified geographic region, are appropriately 
considered an unrelated activity relative to the others. The IHAs are 
unrelated in the sense that they are discrete actions under section 
101(a)(5)(D), issued to discrete applicants.
    Section 101(a)(5)(D) of the MMPA requires NMFS to make a 
determination that the take incidental to a ``specified activity'' will 
have a negligible impact on the affected species or stocks of marine 
mammals. NMFS' implementing regulations require applicants to include 
in their request a detailed description of the specified activity or 
class of activities that can be expected to result in incidental taking 
of marine mammals. 50 CFR 216.104(a)(1). Thus, the ``specified 
activity'' for which incidental take coverage is being sought under 
section 101(a)(5)(D) is generally defined and described by the 
applicant. Here, Atlantic Shores was the applicant for the Renewal IHA, 
and we are responding to the specified activity as described in that 
application (and making the necessary findings on that basis). Through 
the response to public comments in the 1989 implementing regulations, 
we also indicated (1) that NMFS would consider cumulative effects that 
are reasonably foreseeable when preparing a NEPA analysis, and (2) that 
reasonably foreseeable cumulative effects would also be considered 
under section 7 of the ESA for ESA-listed species. In this case, 
cumulative impacts have been adequately addressed under NEPA in prior 
environmental analyses that form the basis for NMFS' determination that 
this action is appropriately categorically excluded from further NEPA 
analysis. Regarding activities in the Mid- and South Atlantic region, 
in 2018 NMFS signed a Record of Decision that (1) adopted the Bureau of 
Ocean Energy Management's 2014 Final Programmatic Environmental Impact 
Statement that evaluated the direct, indirect, and cumulative impacts 
of geological and geophysical survey activities on the

[[Page 21295]]

Mid- and South Atlantic Outer Continental Shelf to support NMFS' 
analysis associated with issuance of incidental take authorizations 
pursuant to sections 101(a)(5)(A) or (D) of the MMPA and the 
regulations governing the taking and importing of marine mammals (50 
CFR part 216), and (2) in accordance with 40 CFR 1505.2, announced and 
explained the basis for our decision to review and potentially issue 
incidental take authorizations under the MMPA on a case-by-case basis, 
if appropriate. Separately, NMFS has previously written Environmental 
Assessments (EA) that addressed cumulative impacts related to 
substantially similar activities, in similar locations, e.g., 2019 
Orsted EA for survey activities offshore southern New England; 2019 
Avangrid EA for survey activities offshore North Carolina and Virginia; 
2018 Deepwater Wind EA for survey activities offshore Delaware, 
Massachusetts, and Rhode Island.
    Separately, cumulative effects were analyzed as required through 
NMFS' required intra-agency consultation under section 7 of the ESA, 
which determined that NMFS' action of issuing the IHA is not likely to 
adversely affect listed marine mammals or their critical habitat.
    Finally, the ENGOs suggested that NMFS should promulgate 
programmatic incidental take regulations for site characterization 
activities. Although NMFS is open to this approach, we have not 
received a request for such regulations. The ENGOs do not explain their 
apparent position that NMFS may advance regulations absent a requester.
    Comment 6: The ENGOs state that NMFS should not adjust estimated 
take numbers for large whales on the basis of assumed efficacy of 
mitigation requirements, and assert that NMFS' assumptions regarding 
effectiveness of mitigation requirements are unfounded.
    Response: In this case, NMFS did not propose to adjust downward any 
estimated take number based on proposed mitigation measures, and has 
not done so in the issued Renewal IHA. In fact, the take authorized is 
likely an overestimated as it is based on the maximum seasonal density 
when, in reality, the surveys are likely to occur during a time of 
lesser density. Therefore, the comment is not relevant to this specific 
action. Generally, NMFS does not agree with the apparent contention 
that it is never appropriate to reduce estimated take numbers based on 
anticipated implementation and effectiveness of mitigation measures, 
and will continue to evaluate the appropriateness of doing so on a 
case-specific basis.
    While we acknowledge the commenters' concerns regarding unfounded 
assumptions concerning the effectiveness of mitigation requirements in 
reducing actual take, it is important to also acknowledge the 
circumstances of a particular action. In most cases, the maximum 
estimated Level B harassment zone associated with commonly-used 
acoustic sources is approximately 150 meters (m), whereas the 
typically-required shutdown zone for North Atlantic right whales is 500 
m. For North Atlantic right whales, NMFS expects that this requirement 
will indeed be effective in reducing actual take below the estimated 
amount, which typically does not account for the beneficial effects of 
mitigation.
    Comment 7: The ENGOs state that NMFS must require mitigation 
measures that meet the least practicable adverse impact standard, imply 
that the requirements prescribed by NMFS have not met that standard, 
and recommend various measures that the commenters state NMFS should 
require.
    The ENGOs first state that NMFS should prohibit site assessment and 
characterization activities involving equipment with noise levels that 
the commenters assert could cause injury or harassment to North 
Atlantic right whales during periods of highest risk, which the 
commenters define as times of highest relative density of animals 
during their migration, and times when mother-calf pairs, pregnant 
females, surface active groups, or aggregations of three or more whales 
are, or are expected to be, present. The commenters additionally state 
that NMFS should require that work commence only during daylight hours 
and good visibility conditions to maximize the probability that marine 
mammals are detected and confirmed clear of the exclusion zone before 
activities begin. If the activity is halted or delayed because of 
documented or suspected North Atlantic right whale presence in the 
area, the commenters state that NMFS should require operators to wait 
until daylight hours and good visibility conditions to recommence.
    Response: NMFS acknowledges the limitations inherent in detection 
of marine mammals at night. However, no injury is expected to result 
even in the absence of mitigation, given the characteristics of the 
sources planned for use (supported by the very small estimated Level A 
harassment zones). The ENGOs do not provide any support for the 
apparent contention that injury is a potential outcome of these 
activities. Regarding Level B harassment, any potential impacts would 
be limited to short-term behavioral responses, as described in greater 
detail herein. The commenters establish that the status of North 
Atlantic right whales in particular is precarious. NMFS agrees in 
general with the discussion of this status provided by the commenters. 
NMFS also agrees with the commenters that certain recommended 
mitigation requirements, e.g., avoiding impacts in places and times of 
greatest importance to marine mammals, limiting operations to times of 
greatest visibility, would be effective in reducing impacts. However, 
the commenters fail entirely to establish that Atlantic Shores' marine 
site characterization survey activities--or site assessment and 
characterization survey activities in general--would have impacts on 
North Atlantic right whales (or any other species) such that 
operational limitations would be warranted. In fact, NMFS considers 
this category of survey operations to be near de minimis, with the 
potential for Level A harassment for any species to be discountable and 
the severity of Level B harassment (and, therefore, the impacts of the 
take event on the affected individual), if any, to be low. In that 
context, there is no need for more restrictive mitigation requirements, 
and the commenters offer no justification to the contrary.
    Restricting surveys in the manner suggested by the commenters may 
reduce marine mammal exposures by some degree in the short term, but 
would not result in any significant reduction in either intensity or 
duration of noise exposure. Vessels would also potentially be on the 
water for an extended time introducing noise into the marine 
environment. The restrictions recommended by the commenters could 
result in the surveys spending increased time on the water, which may 
result in greater overall exposure to sound for marine mammals; thus 
the commenters have not demonstrated that such a requirement would 
result in a net benefit. Furthermore, restricting the applicant to 
begin operations only during daylight hours would have the potential to 
result in lengthy shutdowns of the survey equipment, which could result 
in the applicant failing to collect the data they have determined is 
necessary and, subsequently, the need to conduct additional surveys the 
following year. This would result in significantly increased costs 
incurred by the applicant. Thus, the restriction suggested by the 
commenters would not be practicable for the applicant to implement. In 
consideration of the

[[Page 21296]]

likely effects of the activity on marine mammals absent mitigation, 
potential unintended consequences of the measures as proposed by the 
commenters, and practicability of the recommended measures for the 
applicant, NMFS has determined that restricting operations as 
recommended is not warranted or practicable in this case.
    Comment 8: The ENGOs recommended that NMFS establish an exclusion 
zone (EZ) of 1,000-m around each vessel conducting activities with 
noise levels that they assert could result in injury or harassment to 
North Atlantic right whales, and a minimum EZ of 500 m for all other 
large whale species and strategic stocks of small cetaceans.
    Response: NMFS disagrees with this recommendation, and has 
determined that the EZs included here are sufficiently protective. We 
note that the 500-m EZ for North Atlantic right whales exceeds the 
modeled distance to the largest Level B harassment isopleth distance 
(370 m). The commenters do not provide any justification for the 
contention that the existing EZs are insufficient, and do not provide 
any rationale for their recommended alternatives (other than that they 
are larger).
    Comment 9: The ENGOs stated that NMFS' requirements related to 
visual monitoring are inadequate. The commenters specifically noted 
their belief that a requirement for one Protected Species Observer 
(PSO) to be on duty during daylight hours is insufficient, and 
recommended that NMFS require the use of infrared equipment to support 
visual monitoring by PSOs during periods of darkness.
    Response: NMFS typically requires that a single PSO must be 
stationed at the highest vantage point and engaged in general 360-
degree scanning during daylight hours only. Although NMFS acknowledges 
that the single PSO cannot reasonably maintain observation of the 
entire 360-degree area around the vessel, it is reasonable to assume 
that the single PSO engaged in continual scanning of such a small area 
(i.e., 500-m EZ, which is greater than the maximum 141-m harassment 
zone) will be successful in detecting marine mammals that are available 
for detection at the surface. The monitoring reports submitted to NMFS 
have demonstrated that PSOs active only during daylight operations are 
able to detect marine mammals and implement appropriate mitigation 
measures. As far as visual monitoring at night, we have not 
historically required visual monitoring at night because available 
information demonstrated that such monitoring should not be considered 
effective. However, as night vision technology has continued to 
improve, NMFS has adapted its practice, and two PSOs are required to be 
on duty at night. Moreover, NMFS has included a requirement in the 
final IHA that night-vision equipment (i.e., night-vision goggles and/
or infrared technology) must be available for use.
    Regarding specific technology cited by the ENGOs, NMFS appreciates 
the suggestion and agrees that relatively new detection platforms have 
shown promising results. Following review of the ENGO's letter, we 
considered these and other supplemental platforms as suggested. 
However, to our knowledge, there is no clear guidance available for 
operators regarding characteristics of effective systems, and the 
detection systems cited by the commenters are typically extremely 
expensive, and are therefore considered impracticable for use in most 
surveys. The commenters do not provide specific suggestions with regard 
to recommended systems or characteristics of systems. NMFS does not 
generally consider requirements to use systems such as those cited by 
the commenters to currently be practicable.
    Comment 10: The ENGOs recommended that NMFS should require PAM at 
all times, both day and night, to maximize the probability of detection 
for North Atlantic right whales, and other species and stocks.
    Response: The foremost concern expressed by the ENGOs in making the 
recommendation to require use of PAM is with regard to North Atlantic 
right whales. However, the commenters do not explain why they expect 
that PAM would be effective in detecting other species and stocks. It 
is generally well-accepted fact that, even in the absence of additional 
acoustic sources, using a towed passive acoustic sensor to detect 
baleen whales (including right whales) is not typically effective 
because the noise from the vessel, the flow noise, and the cable noise 
are in the same frequency band and will mask the vast majority of 
baleen whale calls. Vessels produce low-frequency noise, primarily 
through propeller cavitation, with main energy in the 5-300 Hertz (Hz) 
frequency range. Source levels range from about 140 to 195 dB re 1 
[mu]Pa (micropascal) at 1 m (NRC, 2003; Hildebrand, 2009), depending on 
factors such as ship type, load, and speed, and ship hull and propeller 
design. Studies of vessel noise show that it appears to increase 
background noise levels in the 71-224 Hz range by 10-13 dB (Hatch et 
al., 2012; McKenna et al., 2012; Rolland et al., 2012). PAM systems 
employ hydrophones towed in streamer cables approximately 500 m behind 
a vessel. Noise from water flow around the cables and from strumming of 
the cables themselves is also low-frequency and typically masks signals 
in the same range. Experienced PAM operators participating in a recent 
workshop (Thode et al., 2017) emphasized that a PAM operation could 
easily report no acoustic encounters, depending on species present, 
simply because background noise levels rendered any acoustic detection 
impossible. The same workshop report stated that a typical eight-
element array towed 500 m behind a vessel could be expected to detect 
delphinids, sperm whales, and beaked whales at the required range, but 
not baleen whales, due to expected background noise levels (including 
seismic noise, vessel noise, and flow noise).
    There are several additional reasons why we do not agree that use 
of PAM is warranted for 24-hour HRG surveys. While NMFS agrees that PAM 
can be an important tool for augmenting detection capabilities in 
certain circumstances, its utility in further reducing impact during 
HRG survey activities is limited. First, for this activity, the area 
expected to be ensonified above the Level B harassment threshold is 
relatively small (a maximum of 370 m)--this reflects the fact that, to 
start with, the source level is comparatively low and the intensity of 
any resulting impacts would be lower level and, further, it means that 
inasmuch as PAM will only detect a portion of any animals exposed 
within a zone, the overall probability of PAM detecting an animal in 
the harassment zone is low--together these factors support the limited 
value of PAM for use in reducing take with smaller zones. PAM is only 
capable of detecting animals that are actively vocalizing, while many 
marine mammal species vocalize infrequently or during certain 
activities, which means that only a subset of the animals within the 
range of the PAM would be detected (and potentially have reduced 
impacts). Additionally, localization and range detection can be 
challenging under certain scenarios. For example, odontocetes are fast 
moving and often travel in large or dispersed groups which makes 
localization difficult.
    Given that the effects to marine mammals from the types of surveys 
authorized in this IHA are expected to be limited to low level 
behavioral harassment even in the absence of mitigation, the limited 
additional benefit anticipated by adding this detection method 
(especially for right whales and other low frequency

[[Page 21297]]

cetaceans, species for which PAM has limited efficacy), and the cost 
and impracticability of implementing a full-time PAM program, we have 
determined the current requirements for visual monitoring are 
sufficient to ensure the least practicable adverse impact on the 
affected species or stocks and their habitat.
    Comment 11: The ENGOs recommended that NMFS require applicants to 
use the lowest practicable source level.
    Response: Wind energy developers selected the equipment necessary 
during HRG surveys to achieve their objectives. As part of the analysis 
for all HRG IHAs, NMFS evaluated the effects expected as a result of 
use of this equipment, made the necessary findings, and imposed 
mitigation requirements sufficient to achieve the least practicable 
adverse impact on the affected species and stocks of marine mammals. It 
is not within NMFS' purview to make judgments regarding what 
constitutes the ``lowest practicable source level'' for an operator's 
survey objectives.
    Comment 12: The ENGOs recommended that NMFS require all offshore 
wind energy related project vessels operating within or transiting to/
from survey areas, regardless of size, to observe a 10-knot speed 
restriction during the entire survey period.
    Response: NMFS does not concur with these measures. NMFS has 
analyzed the potential for ship strike resulting from various HRG 
activities and has determined that the mitigation measures specific to 
ship strike avoidance are sufficient to avoid the potential for ship 
strike. These include: A requirement that all vessel operators comply 
with 10 knot (18.5 km/hour) or less speed restrictions in any 
established dynamic management area (DMA) or seasonal management area 
(SMA); a requirement that all vessel operators reduce vessel speed to 
10 knots (18.5 km/hour) or less when any large whale, mother/calf 
pairs, pods, or large assemblages of non-delphinid cetaceans are 
observed within 100 m of an underway vessel; a requirement that all 
survey vessels maintain a separation distance of 500 m or greater from 
any sighted North Atlantic right whale; a requirement that, if 
underway, vessels must steer a course away from any sighted North 
Atlantic right whale at 10 knots or less until the 500 m minimum 
separation distance has been established; a requirement that all 
vessels must maintain a minimum separation distance of 100 m from sperm 
whales and all other baleen whales; and a requirement that all vessels 
must, to the maximum extent practicable, attempt to maintain a minimum 
separation distance of 50 m from all other marine mammals, with an 
understanding that at times this may not be possible (e.g., for animals 
that approach the vessel). We have determined that the ship strike 
avoidance measures in the Renewal IHA are sufficient to ensure the 
least practicable adverse impact on species or stocks and their 
habitat. Furthermore, no documented vessel strikes have occurred during 
any marine site characterization survey activities for which NMFS 
issued an IHA.
    Comment 13: The ENGOs recommend that NMFS work with relevant 
experts and stakeholders towards developing a robust and effective near 
real-time monitoring and mitigation system for North Atlantic right 
whales and other endangered and protected species (e.g., fin, sei, 
minke, and humpback whales) during offshore wind energy development.
    Response: NMFS is generally supportive of this concept. A network 
of near real-time baleen whale monitoring devices are active or have 
been tested in portions of New England and Canadian waters. These 
systems employ various digital acoustic monitoring instruments which 
have been placed on autonomous platforms including slocum gliders, wave 
gliders, profiling floats and moored buoys. Systems that have proven to 
be successful will likely see increased use as operational tools for 
many whale monitoring and mitigation applications. The ENGOs cited the 
NMFS publication ``Technical Memorandum NMFS[hyphen]OPR[hyphen]64: 
North Atlantic Right Whale Monitoring and Surveillance: Report and 
Recommendations of the National Marine Fisheries Service's Expert 
Working Group'' which is available at: https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/resource/document/north-atlantic-right-whale-monitoring-and-surveillance-report-and-recommendations. This report summarizes a 
workshop NMFS convened to address objectives related to monitoring 
North Atlantic right whales and presents the Expert Working Group's 
recommendations for a comprehensive monitoring strategy to guide future 
analyses and data collection. Among the numerous recommendations found 
in the report, the Expert Working Group encouraged the widespread 
deployment of auto-buoys to provide near real-time detections of North 
Atlantic right whale calls that visual survey teams can then respond to 
for collection of identification photographs or biological samples.
    Comment 14: The ENGOs state that NMFS must not issue Renewal IHAs, 
and assert that the process is contrary to statutory requirements.
    Response: NMFS' IHA Renewal process meets all statutory 
requirements. All IHAs issued, whether an initial IHA or a Renewal IHA, 
are valid for a period of not more than one year. And the public has at 
least 30 days to comment on all proposed IHAs, with a cumulative total 
of 45 days for IHA Renewals. As noted above, the Comments and Responses 
section made clear that the agency was seeking comment on both the 
initial proposed IHA and the potential issuance of a Renewal for this 
project. Because any Renewal (as explained in the Comments and 
Responses section) is limited to another year of identical or nearly 
identical activities in the same location (as described in the 
Description of Specified Activity section) or the same activities that 
were not completed within the one-year period of the initial IHA, 
reviewers have the information needed to effectively comment on both 
the immediate proposed IHA and a possible one-year Renewal, should the 
IHA holder choose to request one in the coming months.
    While there will be additional documents submitted with a Renewal 
request, for a qualifying Renewal these will be limited to 
documentation that NMFS will make available and use to verify that the 
activities are identical to those in the initial IHA, are nearly 
identical such that the changes would have either no effect on impacts 
to marine mammals or decrease those impacts, or are a subset of 
activities already analyzed and authorized but not completed under the 
initial IHA. NMFS will also confirm, among other things, that the 
activities will occur in the same location; involve the same species 
and stocks; provide for continuation of the same mitigation, 
monitoring, and reporting requirements; and that no new information has 
been received that would alter the prior analysis. The Renewal request 
will also contain a preliminary monitoring report, in order to verify 
that effects from the activities do not indicate impacts of a scale or 
nature not previously analyzed. The additional 15-day public comment 
period provides the public an opportunity to review these few 
documents, provide any additional pertinent information and comment on 
whether they think the criteria for a Renewal have been met. Between 
the initial 30-day comment period on these same activities and the 
additional 15 days, the total comment period for a Renewal is 45 days.

[[Page 21298]]

    Comment 15: The ENGOs expressed concern about past instances where 
NMFS has modified issued IHAs in response to preliminary monitoring 
data indicating that certain species of marine mammal were being 
encountered more frequently than anticipated.
    Response: No modifications are included as part of this action and, 
therefore, this comment is not relevant to this IHA.

Determinations

    The survey activities proposed by Atlantic Shores are identical to 
(and a subset of) those analyzed in the initial IHA, as are the method 
of taking and the effects of the action. The mitigation measures and 
monitoring and reporting requirements as described above are also 
identical to the initial IHA. The planned number of days of activity 
will be reduced given the completion of a small portion of the 
originally planned work. Therefore, the amount of take authorized is 
equal to or less than that authorized in the initial IHA. The potential 
effect of Atlantic Shores' activities remains limited to Level B 
harassment in the form of behavioral disturbance. In analyzing the 
effects of the activities in the initial IHA, NMFS determined that 
Atlantic Shores' activities would have a negligible impact on the 
affected species or stocks and that the authorized take numbers of each 
species or stock were small relative to the relevant stocks (e.g., less 
than one-third of the abundance of all stocks).
    NMFS has concluded that there is no new information suggesting that 
our analysis or findings should change from those reached for the 
initial IHA. Based on the information and analysis contained here and 
in the referenced documents, NMFS has determined the following: (1) The 
required mitigation measures will effect the least practicable impact 
on marine mammal species or stocks and their habitat; (2) the 
authorized takes will have a negligible impact on the affected marine 
mammal species or stocks; (3) the authorized takes represent small 
numbers of marine mammals relative to the affected stock abundances; 
(4) Atlantic Shore's activities will not have an unmitigable adverse 
impact on taking for subsistence purposes as no relevant subsistence 
uses of marine mammals are implicated by this action, and; (5) 
appropriate monitoring and reporting requirements are included.

National Environmental Policy Act

    To comply with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA; 
42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) and NOAA Administrative Order (NAO) 216-6A, 
NMFS must evaluate our proposed action (i.e., issuance of incidental 
harassment authorization) and alternatives with respect to potential 
impacts on the human environment.
    This action is consistent with categories of activities identified 
in Categorical Exclusion B4 of the Companion Manual for NAO 216-6A, 
which do not individually or cumulatively have the potential for 
significant impacts on the quality of the human environment and for 
which we have not identified any extraordinary circumstances that would 
preclude this categorical exclusion. Accordingly, NMFS has determined 
that the proposed action qualifies to be categorically excluded from 
further NEPA review.

Endangered Species Act

    Section 7(a)(2) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (ESA; 16 
U.S.C. 1531 et seq.) requires that each Federal agency insure that any 
action it authorizes, funds, or carries out is not likely to jeopardize 
the continued existence of any endangered or threatened species or 
result in the destruction or adverse modification of designated 
critical habitat. To ensure ESA compliance for the issuance of IHAs, 
NMFS consults internally, in this case with the NMFS Greater Atlantic 
Regional Fisheries Office (GARFO), whenever we propose to authorize 
take for endangered or threatened species.
    On April 13, 2020, GARFO determined that the 2013 Biological 
Opinion remained valid for issuance of Atlantic Shores' initial IHA and 
that the proposed MMPA authorization provides no new information about 
the effects of the action, nor does it change the extent of effects of 
the action, or any other basis to require reinitiation of the Opinion. 
Similarly, on March 3, 2021, GARFO concluded the same for issuance of 
the Renewal IHA to Atlantic Shores. Therefore, the 2013 Biological 
Opinion meets the requirements of section 7(a)(2) of the ESA and 
implementing regulations at 50 CFR 402 for our proposed action to issue 
an IHA under the MMPA, and no further consultation is required. The 
2013 Biological Opinion and amended ITS can be found at 
www.fisheries.noaa.gov/national/marine-mammal-protection/incidental-take-authorizations-other-energy-activities-renewable.

Renewal

    NMFS has issued a Renewal IHA to Atlantic Shores for the take of 
marine mammals incidental to conducting marine site characterization 
surveys off New York and New Jersey for one year from date of issuance.

    Dated: April 19, 2021.
Catherine Marzin,
Acting Director, Office of Protected Resources, National Marine 
Fisheries Service.
[FR Doc. 2021-08354 Filed 4-21-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3510-22-P