Coast Guard April 19, 2016 – Federal Register Recent Federal Regulation Documents

The Coast Guard announces its intent to enter into a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) with Comtech Systems, Inc., to investigate the potential operational use of troposcatter technology. The research includes employment of their Modular Transportable Transmission System (MTTS) in northern Alaska to establish beyond line of sight (BLOS) network links without using existing infrastructure or satellite communications. Specifically, the MTTS will provide a wireless IEEE 802.3 (Ethernet) data link between two locations separated by long distances and elevated terrain. The MTTS will be setup in locations with no shelter/protection from the Northern Alaskan environment. A Pilot Demonstration schedule has been proposed in which Comtech Systems will provide their MTTS to connect two points separated by 68 miles with a 3000 foot elevation in between. The Coast Guard Research and Development Center (R&D Center) will prepare a Pilot Demonstration Assessment Plan and Comtech Systems will operate the equipment for exploratory development over a one week period to collect information on suitability, reliability, maintenance requirements, and ease of use. While the Coast Guard is currently considering partnering with Comtech Systems, Inc., the agency is soliciting public comment on the possible nature of and participation of other parties in the proposed CRADA. In addition, the Coast Guard also invites other potential non-Federal participants to propose similar CRADAs.

The Coast Guard proposes to amend its safety zones regulations for annual events in the Captain of the Port Duluth Zone. This proposed rule would update the locations for two safety zones, add three safety zones, and modify the format of the regulations to list the annual events and corresponding safety zones in table form. These proposed amendments will protect spectators, participants, and vessels from the hazards associated with annual marine events and improve the clarity and readability of the regulations.

The Coast Guard is considering amending the regulations for Hampton Roads, VA and adjacent waters anchorages by establishing a new anchorage, near Cape Charles, VA on the Lower Chesapeake Bay. This advance notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPRM) provides information relevant to, and solicits public comment on the possible creation of a Federal anchorage west of Cape Charles, VA on the Chesapeake Bay. Port of Virginia infrastructure improvements and growth in commercial vessel traffic entering the port, including large and deep-draft vessels have prompted this solicitation for comments on a potential proposed rulemaking. If the Coast Guard proceeds with a proposed rulemaking, the intended effect would be to ensure that the Hampton Roads Anchorage Grounds continue to safely support current and future maritime commerce and commercial vessel anchoring needs. We invite your comments on this ANPRM.

The Coast Guard will enforce various safety zones within the Captain of the Port New York Zone on the specified dates and times. This action is necessary to ensure the safety of vessels, participants and spectators from hazards associated with fireworks displays and swim events. During the enforcement period, no person or vessel may enter the safety zones without permission of the Captain of the Port (COTP).

The Navigation Safety Advisory Council will meet in Arlington, Virginia to discuss matters relating to maritime collisions, rammings, and groundings, Inland Rules of the Road, International Rules of the Road, navigation regulations and equipment, routing measures, marine information, diving safety, and aids to navigation systems. These meetings will be open to the public.