Department of the Interior March 2006 – Federal Register Recent Federal Regulation Documents

Colorado River Reservoir Operations: Development of Lower Basin Shortage Guidelines and Coordinated Management Strategies for Lake Powell and Lake Mead, Particularly Under Low Reservoir Conditions
Document Number: E6-4713
Type: Notice
Date: 2006-03-31
Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Reclamation, Reclamation Bureau
Pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969, as amended, and the Council on Environmental Quality's Regulations for Implementing the Procedural Provisions of NEPA, the Department of the Interior (Department) has issued a Scoping Summary Report on the development of Lower Basin shortage guidelines and coordinated management strategies for the operation of Lake Powell and Lake Mead, particularly under low reservoir conditions. The Scoping Summary Report provides a summary of the issues raised during the scoping process and describes the Department's current assessment of the proposed scope of the environmental analysis to be included in the draft environmental impact statement (EIS). The Department anticipates that the Draft EIS will be published in December 2006. The report also includes a summary of the issues raised and comments received during the scoping process. Among other things, the report identifies how the Department anticipates addressing these issues. Dates and Addresses: The Department will accept, review, and incorporate, as appropriate, any additional public comments on the information contained in the Scoping Summary Report as part of the development of the Draft EIS, which the Department anticipates will be published in December 2006. The Department would prefer that any such comments be received by May 1, 2006, in order to allow full consideration during the development of the Draft EIS. Send written comments to: Regional Director, Bureau of Reclamation, Lower Colorado Region, Attention: BCOO-1000, P.O. Box 61470, Boulder City, Nevada 89006-1470; faxogram at (702) 293-8156; or e-mail at strategies@lc.usbr.gov. The Scoping Summary Report is available on the Bureau of Reclamation's Web site at https://www.usbr.gov/lc/region/g4000/ strategies/. If you would like a printed copy of the report, please contact Nan Yoder at telephone (702) 293-8500; facsimile (702) 293-8156; e-mail: strategies@lc.usbr.gov.
Notice of Intent To Prepare an Environmental Impact Statement and Initiate the Public Scoping Process for Lincoln County Water District Proposed Water Production Wells, Water Transmission Pipeline, Electric Lines, and Communication Lines in Southwestern Lincoln County; NV
Document Number: E6-4707
Type: Notice
Date: 2006-03-31
Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Land Management Bureau
Pursuant to Section 102(2)(C) of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, as amended, notice is hereby given that the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Nevada State Office and Ely Field Office, will be initiating the preparation of an environmental impact statement (EIS) and conducting public scoping meetings to analyze the proposed Kane Springs Valley (KSV) Groundwater Development Project, which will include production wells, a water transmission pipeline with lateral pipelines, electric lines, and communication lines. The purpose of the project is to develop and convey water from Kane Springs Valley to private land in the Coyote Springs Valley.
Notice of Availability (NOA), Final Environmental Impact Statement for the Proposed Cotterel Wind Power Project and Proposed Resource Management Plan Amendment, Burley Field Office, Cassia County, ID
Document Number: E6-4663
Type: Notice
Date: 2006-03-31
Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Land Management Bureau
In accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 and the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976, the Burley Field Office of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has prepared a Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) for the Proposed Cotterel Mountain Wind Power Project and Proposed Resource Management Plan Amendment.
Grazing Administration-Exclusive of Alaska
Document Number: E6-4662
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2006-03-31
Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Land Management Bureau
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) announces the availability of the Addendum to the Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) to support amendments of the regulations governing grazing administration. The Addendum responds to comments received on the Draft EIS.
Notice of Proposed National Natural Landmark Designation for the Irvine Ranch Land Reserve, CA
Document Number: 06-3161
Type: Notice
Date: 2006-03-31
Agency: Department of the Interior, National Park Service
The National Park Service has evaluated and determined that the Irvine Ranch Land Reserve, located forty-five miles south of downtown Los Angeles, in Orange County, California appears to meet the criteria for national significance and proposes to recommend the site for designation as a National Natural Landmark. The public is invited to comment on this recommendation. The proposal will be considered by the National Park System Advisory Board at a meeting to be held on June 8, 2006 at Zion National Park, in the Majestic View Lodge, 2400 Zion Park Blvd., Springdale, Utah.
Notice of Proposed Information Collection for 1029-0025, 1029-0040 and 1029-0104
Document Number: 06-3130
Type: Notice
Date: 2006-03-31
Agency: Department of the Interior, Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement, Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement Office
In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSM) is announcing its intention to request renewed approval for the collections of information for 30 CFR 733, Maintenance of state programs and procedures for substituting federal enforcement of state programs and withdrawing approval of state programs; 785, Requirements for permits for special categories of mining; and 876, Acid mine drainage treatment and abatement program.
Notice of Intent to Prepare an Environmental Impact Statement and Initiate the Public Scoping Process for Lincoln County Water District Proposed Water Production Wells, Water Transmission Pipeline, Electric Lines, and Communication Lines in Southeastern Lincoln County; NV
Document Number: 06-2932
Type: Notice
Date: 2006-03-31
Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Land Management Bureau
Pursuant to Section 102(2)(C) of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, as amended, notice is hereby given that the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Nevada State Office and Ely Field Office, will be initiating the preparation of an environmental impact statement (EIS) and conducting public scoping meetings to analyze the proposed Lincoln County Land Act (LCLA) Groundwater Development Project, which will include production wells, a water transmission pipeline with lateral pipelines, electric lines, and communication lines. The purpose of the project is to develop and convey water from the Tule Desert area to land sold by the BLM under the LCLA, approximately 2 miles north of Mesquite, Nevada.
Renewal of the Sport Fishing and Boating Partnership Advisory Council
Document Number: E6-4618
Type: Notice
Date: 2006-03-30
Agency: Office of the Secretary, Department of the Interior
This notice is published in accordance with section 9a(2) of the Federal Advisory Committee Act. Following consultation with the General Services Administration, the Secretary of the Interior hereby renews the Sport Fishing and Boating Partnership Council (Council) charter for 2 years.
Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; 5-Year Review of Five Midwestern Species
Document Number: E6-4616
Type: Notice
Date: 2006-03-30
Agency: Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior
We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), announce a 5-year review of gray bat (Myotis grisecens), Iowa Pleistocene snail (Discus macclintocki), decurrent false aster (Boltonia decurrens), Pitcher's thistle (Cirsium pitcheri), and western prairie fringed orchid (Platanthera praeclara) under section 4(c)(2)(A) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (Act) (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.). We request any information on the aforementioned species since their original listings that has a bearing on their classification as threatened or endangered. A 5-year review is a periodic process conducted to ensure that the classification of a listed species is appropriate. It is based on the best scientific and commercial data available at the time of the review. We will make a finding of whether these species are properly classified under section 4(c)(2)(B) of the Act, based on the results of these 5-year reviews.
Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Notice of Availability of Genetics Data and Extension of Comment Period for the Proposed Delisting of the Preble's Meadow Jumping Mouse (Zapus hudsonius preblei)
Document Number: E6-4572
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2006-03-30
Agency: Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior
We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), announce the availability of two recently published reports and the underlying data which present additional analysis data regarding the Preble's meadow jumping mouse (Zapus hudsonius preblei). In order to ensure the public has full access to and an opportunity to comment on all available information on the proposed rule to delist the Preble's meadow jumping mouse, we are extending the public comment period until May 18, 2006. Comments previously submitted need not be resubmitted as they have already been incorporated into the public record and will be fully considered in the final decision and rule.
Oil and Gas and Sulphur Operations in the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS)-Geological and Geophysical (G&G) Explorations of the OCS-Proprietary Terms and Data Disclosure
Document Number: 06-3009
Type: Rule
Date: 2006-03-30
Agency: Department of the Interior, Minerals Management Service
This rule expands the circumstances under which MMS allows inspection of G&G data and information. The rule also modifies the start dates of proprietary terms for geophysical data and information and any derivatives of these data and information that MMS acquires. In addition, the rule clarifies the proprietary terms of geological data and information MMS acquires pursuant to a permit.
Extension of San Francisco Municipal Railway Historic Streetcar Service; Golden Gate National Recreation Area and San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park; County of San Francisco; Notice of Intent To Prepare an Environmental Impact Statement
Document Number: E6-4548
Type: Notice
Date: 2006-03-29
Agency: Department of the Interior, National Park Service
In accordance with section 102(2)(C) of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, and pursuant to the Council on Environmental Quality's regulations (40 CFR parts 1500-08), the National Park Service is initiating the conservation planning and environmental impact analysis process for the proposed extension of the northern waterfront Municipal Railway Historic Streetcar Service. Beginning at Fisherman's Wharf, this proposed railway extension would serve visitors to two popular units of the National Park SystemSan Francisco Maritime National Historical Park and the Fort Mason area of Golden Gate National Recreation Area. This project is being developed in close coordination with San Francisco Municipal Railway and other City and County of San Francisco planning and transportation agencies. Background: A congressionally-mandated Travel Study completed in 1977 recommended restoring the historic rail link between the Hyde Street Pier and Fort Mason to improve access to various National Park Service (NPS) sites. The rail line was subsequently abandoned (1980), and the area between Hyde Street Pier and the Fort Mason tunnel entrance was designated a National Historic Landmark District in 1987 (which is now encompassed in the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park created in 1988). Also, in the late 1980s Federal highway funds originally intended for extending Interstate 280 were reallocated to a number of alternative transportation facilities along the Embarcadero including creation of an historic streetcar line along Market Street and the Embarcadero to Fisherman's Wharf. In 2000 this service was extended to Fisherman's Wharf, only .85 miles from the public-serving facilities at Fort Mason Center. The popularity of the historic streetcars, which currently serve more than 20,000 passengers a day, has resulted in public and private interest in extending the service, with the creation of the E-Line to Fort Mason. The Municipal Railway (MUNI) currently operates historic streetcar service on Market Street and along the San Francisco waterfront (F- Line) to the line's existing terminus at Jones Street and Beach (in the Fisherman's Wharf area). The E-Line extension would begin at the terminus of the F-line and extend west to San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park (NHP) and on to Fort Mason. The exact route has yet to be determined but would utilize either existing rail right- of-way routes confined to city streets or pass through NHP's Aquatic Park (at the core of the National Historic Landmark District) in order to reach the Fort Mason tunnel. It is anticipated that under all alternatives the railway line would extend through the tunnel and end in the area of lower Fort Mason. The NHP is visited by approximately 4 million people annually and is currently served by very popular cable cars (often crowded at peak tourist times) as well as streetcar and bus lines. Fort Mason, home to the Fort Mason Center, houses more than 40 non-profit organizations offering more than 15,000 events a year and attracting upwards of 1.6 million visitors. The Fort Mason area is underserved by mass transit access, and as a result automobile-based visitation causes massive parking problems that affect surrounding neighborhoods. Furthermore, inadequate mass transit access makes it difficult for transit-dependent San Franciscans to enjoy the cultural and educational events offered at Fort Mason Center. Development of Alternatives: At this time a full range of alternatives has not been confirmed. However, in order to be successful, any project selected would: Increase alternative transportation options for visitors to the NHP and Fort Mason; Serve a new cohesive recreation and cultural corridor along the northern waterfront; Enhance links for the City's lower-income population with all NPS sites and other northern waterfront attractions; Improve local and regional transit connectivity and decrease the need for automobile use and parking in historic and environmentally sensitive areas; Facilitate efforts to reduce the need for automobile-based trips to the National Historic Landmark District destinations by providing park visitors an attractive, non-polluting mass transit access; Avoid or minimize adverse effects on the National Historic Landmark District and related cultural and historic resources and waterfront values. Scoping: This notice serves to formally open the public scoping comment phase for this planning process. The purpose of the scoping process is to elicit public comment on the proposed extension in order to inform the development of the Draft EIS. The public and interested organizations are encouraged to provide comment on issues and concerns, feasible alternatives, potential environmental effects and appropriate mitigation measures that would reduce project impacts. The public will have an initial opportunity to comment on the proposal by attending a public scoping meeting or providing written comments electronically via the internet or sending letters through the mail. All scoping comments must be postmarked or transmitted not later than 60 days after the publication of this Notice in the Federal Registeras soon as this ending date is confirmed, it will be announced on the project Web site (noted below). The NPS anticipates hosting a public meeting in late March 2006 (complete information regarding this meeting will be posted on the project Web site). Following a short presentation regarding the project, the public will be given the opportunity to ask questions and provide comments to the planning team. The project Web site will provide the most up-to-date information regarding the project, including project description, planning process updates, meeting notices, reports and documents, and useful links associated with the project (the Web site is: https://parkplanning.nps.gov/goga; once at the site, click on project name and follow Web site instructions). Written comments should be mailed to the following address: Superintendent GGNRA, Attn: Rick Foster, MUNI Railway Extension Project Manager, Fort Mason, Bldg. 201, San Francisco, CA 94123. In addition to the project Web site, project updates or requests to be included on the Draft EIS mailing list can be accommodated by contacting the MUNI Railway Extension Project Manager at (415) 561-4472. It is the practice of the NPS to make all comments, including names and addresses of respondents who provide that information, available for public review following the conclusion of the NEPA process. Individuals may request that the NPS withhold their name and/or address from public disclosure. If you wish to do this, you must state this prominently at the beginning of your comment. Commenters using the Web site can make such a request by checking the box ``keep my contact information private''. NPS will honor such requests to the extent allowable by law, but you should be aware that the NPS may still be required to disclose your name and address pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act. Decision Process: At this time it is anticipated that the Draft EIS will be available for public review in early 2007. Availability of the Draft EIS document will be formally announced through the publication of a Notice of Availability in the Federal Register, through local and regional news media, via the project Web site, and direct mailing to the project mailing list. As a delegated EIS, the official responsible for the final decision regarding the proposed extension is the Regional Director, Pacific West Region. Subsequently the officials responsible for implementation will be the Superintendents of Golden Gate National Recreation Area and San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park.
Notice of Availability of the Final General Management Plan and Final Environmental Impact Statement for the First Ladies National Historic Site, Ohio
Document Number: E6-4546
Type: Notice
Date: 2006-03-29
Agency: Department of the Interior, National Park Service
Pursuant to section 102(2)(C) of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, the National Park Service (NPS) announces the availability of the Final General Management Plan and Final Environmental Impact Statement (GMP/EIS) for the First Ladies National Historic Site.
Final Environmental Impact Statement/Fire Management Plan; Golden Gate National Recreation Area; Marin, San Francisco and San Mateo Counties, CA; Notice of Approval of Record of Decision
Document Number: E6-4545
Type: Notice
Date: 2006-03-29
Agency: Department of the Interior, National Park Service
Pursuant to section 102(2)(C) of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (Pub. L. 91-190, as amended) and the implementing regulations promulgated by the Council on Environmental Quality (40 CFR part 1505.2), the Department of the Interior, National Park Service has prepared, and the Regional Director, Pacific West Region has approved the Record of Decision for the updated Fire Management Plan for Golden Gate National Recreation Area. The formal no-action waiting period was officially initiated December 23, 2005, with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Federal Register notification of the filing of the Final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). Decision: As soon as practicable the park will begin to implement as its updated Fire Management Plan the ``Hazard Reduction and Resource Enhancement through Multiple Treatments'' alternative (also identified and analyzed as the Preferred Alternative C in the Draft and Final EIS). The selected plan update allows for the greatest number of acres to be treated annually while minimizing potential adverse resource effects of fire management activities. Alternative C utilizes prescribed burning and mechanical treatment strategies deemed to be appropriate for reducing fuel loads near developed areas. Expanded research will examine the role of these strategies in enhancing natural resource conditions, and will also be used to adaptively guide the fire management program and maximize the benefits to park cultural and natural resources. As documented in the EIS, this plan was also deemed to be the ``environmentally preferred'' alternative. This course of action and two alternatives were initially identified and analyzed in the Draft EIS (distributed in March 2005); minor modifications were made based on public and agency review. The Final EIS was released in December 2005. The full spectrum of foreseeable environmental consequences was assessed, and appropriate mitigation measures identified. Beginning with early scoping, through the preparation of the Draft and Final EIS, numerous public meetings and agency consultations were conducted, and newsletter updates were regularly provided. Approximately one dozen written responses to the Draft EIS were received and duly considered. Key consultations which aided in preparing the Draft and Final EIS involved (but were not limited to) the California State Historic Preservation Office, California Coastal Commission, local air quality management districts, adjoining land managing agencies, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and National Marine Fisheries Service. Area residents, county and city officials, and interested organizations were contacted extensively during initial scoping and throughout the fire planning process. Copies: Interested parties desiring to review the Record of Decision may obtain a complete copy by contacting the Superintendent, Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Bldg. 201, Ft. Mason, San Francisco, CA 94123 or via telephone request at (415) 331-6374.
Dog Management Plan and Environmental Impact Statement, Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Marin, San Francisco and San Mateo Counties, CA; Notice of Extension of Scoping Period
Document Number: E6-4544
Type: Notice
Date: 2006-03-29
Agency: Department of the Interior, National Park Service
In accordance with section 102(2)(C) of the National Environmental Policy Act (40 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.), the National Park Service (NPS) is undertaking concurrent negotiated rulemaking and conservation planning-environmental impact analysis efforts to identify and evaluate alternatives for clear and enforceable guidelines to determine the manner and extent of dog-walking use in appropriate areas of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA). As announced February 22, 2006 in the Federal Register (V71[bs]N35[bs]PP9147-48), the NPS is preparing an environmental impact statement for a GGNRA Dog Management Plan (plan/EIS) and has initiated a public scoping process to aid preparation of the plan/EIS. The public scoping period is being extended from the original March 24, 2006 deadline to April 24, 2006.
Public Land Order No. 7659; Revocation of Public Land Order No. 3685; New Mexico
Document Number: E6-4534
Type: Notice
Date: 2006-03-29
Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Land Management Bureau
This order revokes Public Land Order No. 3685 in its entirety as it affects 2,789 acres of public land withdrawn and reserved for use by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration for protection of facilities. The land is no longer needed for the purpose for which it was withdrawn. The land will remain closed to surface entry and mining until a planning review and analysis is completed to determine the best use of the land.
Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Final Rule To List the Tibetan Antelope as Endangered Throughout Its Range
Document Number: 06-3034
Type: Rule
Date: 2006-03-29
Agency: Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior
We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), determine that the classification of the Tibetan antelope (Pantholops hodgsonii) as endangered throughout its range is warranted, pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act, 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.). The best available information indicates that the total population of Tibetan antelope has declined drastically over the past three decades such that it is in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range. This decline has resulted primarily from overutilization for commercial purposes and the inadequacy of existing regulatory mechanisms. Habitat impacts, especially those caused by domestic livestock grazing, appear to be a contributory factor in the decline, and could have potentially greater impacts in the near future. Accordingly, we are listing the Tibetan antelope as endangered, pursuant to the Act.
60-Day Notice of Intention To Request Clearance of Collection of Information; Opportunity for Public Comment
Document Number: 06-3018
Type: Notice
Date: 2006-03-29
Agency: Department of the Interior, National Park Service
Under the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (Pub. L. 104-13, 44 U.S.C., Chapter 3507) and 5 CFR part 1320, Reporting and Record Keeping Requirements, the National Park Service (NPS) invites public comments on the reinstatement, with change, of a previously approved collection for which approval has expired (OMB 1024-0226).
Notice of Submission to Office of Management and Budget; Opportunity for Public Comment
Document Number: 06-3017
Type: Notice
Date: 2006-03-29
Agency: Department of the Interior, National Park Service
Under provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 and 36 CFR part 51, subpart J, regarding the Assignment or Encumbrance of Concession Contracts, the National Park Service (NPS) invites comments on a currently approved collection of information (OMB Control 1024-0126). The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has up to 60 days to approve or disapprove the NPS request to renew this information collection, but may respond after 30 days. Therefore, to ensure maximum consideration, OMB should receive public comments within 30 days of the date on which this notice is published in the Federal Register.
General Management Plan for Golden Gate National Recreation Area; Marin, San Francisco, and San Mateo Counties, CA; Notice of Intent To Prepare a Draft Environmental Impact Statement
Document Number: 06-3016
Type: Notice
Date: 2006-03-29
Agency: Department of the Interior, National Park Service
Notice is hereby given that in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, the U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service is initiating the scoping process for preparation of an Environmental Impact Statement on the General Management Plan (GMP) for Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA), including Muir Woods National Monument and Fort Point National Historical Monument, in the San Francisco Bay area of California. The GMP will provide a well- grounded, clearly defined direction for resource protection and visitor management throughout the area managed by GGNRA, including Muir Woods National Monument and Fort Point National Historic Site, and lands acquired since approval of the 1980 GMP. Consistent with NPS Planning Program Standards and the Secretary of the Interior's ``Four C's'' (Conservation through Consultation, Cooperation, and Communication) the GMP will: (1) Describe the purposes, significance, and primary interpretive themes of the park; (2) identify the fundamental resources and values of the park, its other important resources and values, and describe the condition of these resources; (3) describe desired conditions for cultural and natural resources and visitor experiences throughout the park and for each management unit in the park; (4) develop management zoning to support these desired conditions; (5) develop alternative applications of these management zones to the park landscape (i.e., zoning alternatives); (6) address carrying capacity; (7) analyze potential boundary modifications; (8) ensure that the GMP recommendations are developed in consultation with interested stakeholders and the public and adopted by the NPS leadership after an adequate analysis of the benefits, environmental impacts, and economic costs of alternative courses of action; and (9) identify and prioritize subsequent detailed studies, plans and actions that may be needed to implement the GMP. In addition, the GMP will: (1) Articulate park management philosophy; (2) provide the foundation for managing park partnerships (which are critical to the successful future operation of GGNRA) and for coordinating and collaborating with adjacent public land managers; (3) provide a framework for continued public and partner stewardship of the park's resources; and (4) strive to foster an engaged constituency that will remain active in supporting the park in the future. Scoping: Through the scoping process, the National Park Service (NPS) welcomes suggestions from the public regarding resource protection, visitor use, and management of the lands administered by GGNRA. This notice formally initiates the public scoping comment phase for the EIS process for the GMP update. All scoping comments must be postmarked or transmitted not later than 60 days after the publication of this noticeimmediately upon confirmation of this date it will be announced on the park's GMP Web site (noted below). All written comments should be submitted to the following address: Brian O'Neill, Superintendent, GGNRA (Attn: GMP Team), Fort Mason, Bldg. 201, San Francisco, CA 94123 (or may be transmitted by electronic mail to goga.gmp@nps.gov or via Facsimile to (415) 561-4710). A key purpose of the scoping process is to elicit early public comment on the GMP proposal in order to inform the development of the Draft EIS. In addition, the scoping process will help define issues or problems to be addressed in the GMP. The public is encouraged to provide comments and pertinent information on issues and concerns, goals and objectives, alternatives, and potential environmental impacts or mitigation strategies. At this time it is expected that 4 public meetings will be hosted during April 19-27, 2006. Detailed information regarding these meetings will be posted on the GMP Web site (see below). Following a short presentation regarding the project, all attendees will be given the opportunity to ask questions and provide comments to the planning team. The GMP Web site will provide the most up-to-date information regarding the project, including project description, planning process updates, meeting notices, reports and documents, and useful links associated with the project. The URL for the GMP Web site is: https://parkplanning.nps/gov/goga (once at the site, click on project name and follow the instructions). Informational messages may also be accessed at (415) 561-4965. It is the practice of the NPS to make all comments, including names and addresses of respondents who provide that information, available for public review following the conclusion of the NEPA process. Individuals may request that the NPS withhold their name and/or address from public disclosure. If you wish to do this, you must state this prominently at the beginning of your comments. Commentators using the Web site can make such a request by checking the box ``keep my contact information private''. NPS will honor such requests to the extent allowable by law, but you should be aware that the NPS may still be required to disclose your name and address pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act.
Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge
Document Number: 06-2985
Type: Notice
Date: 2006-03-29
Agency: Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior
This notice advises the public that the Fish and Wildlife Service, Southeast Region, intends to gather information necessary to prepare a comprehensive conservation plan and environmental assessment pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act and its implementing regulations. The National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act of 1966, as amended by the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of 1997, requires the Service to develop a comprehensive conservation plan for each national wildlife refuge. The purpose in developing a comprehensive conservation plan is to provide refuge managers with a 15-year strategy for achieving refuge purposes and contributing toward the mission of the National Wildlife Refuge System, consistent with sound principles of fish and wildlife management, conservation, legal mandates, and Service policies. In addition to outlining broad management direction on conserving wildlife and their habitat, plans identify wildlife-dependent recreational opportunities available to the public, including opportunities for hunting, fishing, wildlife observation, wildlife photography, and environmental education and interpretation. The purpose of this notice is to achieve the following: (1) Advise other agencies and the public of our intentions, and (2) Obtain suggestions and information on the scope of issues to include in the environmental document.
Subsistence Management Regulations for Public Lands in Alaska, Subpart C and Subpart D-2006-07 Subsistence Taking of Fish and Shellfish Regulations
Document Number: 06-2847
Type: Rule
Date: 2006-03-29
Agency: Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior
This final rule establishes regulations for seasons, harvest limits, methods, and means related to taking of fish and shellfish for subsistence uses during the 2006-07 regulatory year. The rulemaking is necessary because Subpart D is subject to an annual public review cycle. This rulemaking replaces the fish and shellfish taking regulations included in the ``Subsistence Management Regulations for Public Lands in Alaska, Subpart C and Subpart D2005-06 Subsistence Taking of Fish and Wildlife Regulations,'' which expire on March 31, 2006. This rule also amends the Customary and Traditional Use Determinations of the Federal Subsistence Board (Section .24 of Subpart C).
Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Designation of Critical Habitat for Astragalus ampullarioides
Document Number: 06-2840
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2006-03-29
Agency: Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior
We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), propose to designate critical habitat for two endangered plants, Astragalus ampullarioides (Shivwits milk-vetch) and Astragalus holmgreniorum (Holmgren milk-vetch), pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act or ESA). In total, approximately 2,620 hectares (ha) (6,475 acres (ac)) fall within the boundaries of the proposed critical habitat designation for A. holmgreniorum in Mohave County, Arizona, and Washington County, Utah, and approximately 980 ha (2,421 ac) fall within the boundaries of the proposed critical habitat designation for A. ampullarioides in Washington County, Utah.
Kentucky: Notice of Federal Competitive Coal Lease Sale, Kentucky
Document Number: E6-4415
Type: Notice
Date: 2006-03-28
Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Land Management Bureau
Notice is hereby given that the United States Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management-Eastern States (BLM-ES), will offer certain coal resources described below as the Blue Hole Federal Mineral Tract (KYES-50213) in Clay County, Kentucky, for competitive sale by sealed bid, in accordance with the provisions for competitive lease sales in 43 CFR part 3422, and the Mineral Leasing Act of 1920, as amended and supplemented (30 U.S.C. 181 et seq.), and the Mineral Leasing Act for Acquired Lands of 1947.
Notice of Proposed Withdrawal Extension and Opportunity for Public Meeting; New Mexico
Document Number: E6-4413
Type: Notice
Date: 2006-03-28
Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Land Management Bureau
The Bureau of Land Management proposes to extend the duration of Public Land Order (PLO) No. 6616 for an additional 20-year period. PLO No. 6616 withdrew 16.45 acres of public land in San Juan County, New Mexico from settlement, sale, location or entry under the general land laws, including the United States mining laws, to protect the Bureau of Land Management's Farmington Administrative Site.
American Indian Trust Fund Management Reform Act; Technical Amendments
Document Number: 06-2976
Type: Rule
Date: 2006-03-28
Agency: Department of the Interior, Office of the Special Trustee for American Indians, Special Trustee for American Indians Office
The Office of the Special Trustee for American Indians (OST) is revising its regulations to update references to agency names, addresses, and position titles. This action is editorial in nature and is intended to improve the accuracy and clarity of the OST's regulations.
Final Supplementary Rules for Public Lands in Park County, Colorado: Guffey Gorge/Guffey Gulch
Document Number: 06-2939
Type: Notice
Date: 2006-03-28
Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Land Management Bureau
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Royal Gorge Field Office is issuing supplementary rules to regulate conduct on specific public lands within Park County, Colorado. The rules apply to the public lands called Guffey Gorge, also known as Guffey Gulch. BLM has determined these rules necessary to protect the area's natural resources and to provide for public health and safe public recreation.
Receipt of Application of Endangered Species Recovery Permits
Document Number: E6-4410
Type: Notice
Date: 2006-03-27
Agency: Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior
We announce our receipt of applications to conduct certain activities pertaining to enhancement of survival of endangered species.
Receipt of Applications for Endangered Species Permits
Document Number: E6-4387
Type: Notice
Date: 2006-03-27
Agency: Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior
The public is invited to comment on the following applications to conduct certain activities with endangered species.
Availability of a Proposed Safe Harbor Agreement for the Valley Elderberry Longhorn Beetle for Landowners Restoring Riparian Habitat in the Lower Mokelumne River Watershed in San Joaquin County, California
Document Number: E6-4384
Type: Notice
Date: 2006-03-27
Agency: Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior
This notice advises the public that the California Association of Resource Conservation Districts (Applicant) has applied to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) for an enhancement of survival permit pursuant to Section 10(a)(1)(A) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.) (Act). The permit application includes a proposed Safe Harbor Agreement (Agreement) between the Applicant and the Service for the threatened valley elderberry longhorn beetle (VELB) (Desmocerus californicus dimorphus). The Agreement and permit application are available for public comment.
Notice of Filing of Plats of Survey, WY
Document Number: E6-4366
Type: Notice
Date: 2006-03-27
Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Land Management Bureau
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has filed the plats of survey of the lands described below in the BLM Wyoming State Office, Cheyenne, Wyoming, on February 3, 2006.
Montana Regulatory Program
Document Number: E6-4360
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2006-03-27
Agency: Department of the Interior, Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement, Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement Office
We are announcing receipt of a proposed amendment to the Montana regulatory program under the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 (SMCRA or the Act). This document gives the times and locations that the Montana regulatory program and proposed amendment to that program are available for your inspection, the comment period during which you may submit written comments on the amendment, and the procedures that we will follow for the public hearing, if one is requested.
Notice of Public Meeting: Northwest California Resource Advisory Council
Document Number: E6-4329
Type: Notice
Date: 2006-03-27
Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Land Management Bureau
In accordance with the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (FLPMA), and the Federal Advisory Committee Act of 1972 (FACA), the U. S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Northwest California Resource Advisory Council will meet as indicated below.
Submission of Information Collection to the Office of Management and Budget for Review Under the Paperwork Reduction Act
Document Number: E6-4324
Type: Notice
Date: 2006-03-27
Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Indian Affairs Bureau
In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act, this notice announces that the Bureau of Indian Affairs is submitting an information collection to the Office of Management and Budget for reinstatement. This collection expired during the renewal process. The collection concerns the implementation of the requirements of Indian Reservation Roads program allocation of funds. We are requesting a reinstatement of clearance and requesting comments on this information collection.
Oklahoma Regulatory Program
Document Number: 06-2899
Type: Rule
Date: 2006-03-27
Agency: Department of the Interior, Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement, Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement Office
We, the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSM), are approving an amendment to the Oklahoma regulatory program (Oklahoma program) under the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 (SMCRA or the Act). Oklahoma proposed revisions to its rules concerning cross sections, maps, and plans; subsidence control; impoundments; revegetation success standards; and roads. Oklahoma withdrew its previously proposed revisions to its rules concerning review of decision not to inspect or enforce. Oklahoma intends to revise its program to provide additional safeguards, clarify ambiguities, and improve operational efficiency.
Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Designating the Western Great Lakes Population of Gray Wolves as a Distinct Population Segment; Removing the Western Great Lakes Distinct Population Segment of the Gray Wolf From the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife
Document Number: 06-2802
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2006-03-27
Agency: Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior
We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) propose to establish the Western Great Lakes Distinct Population Segment (WGL DPS) of the gray wolf (Canis lupus). This DPS includes all of Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan; the eastern half of North Dakota and South Dakota; the northern half of Iowa; the northern portions of Illinois and Iowa; and the northwestern portion of Ohio. We further propose to remove the WGL DPS from the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife established under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). We propose these actions because available data indicate that this DPS no longer meets the definitions of threatened or endangered under the Act. The threats have been reduced or eliminated as evidenced by a population that is stable or increasing in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan, and greatly exceeds the numerical recovery criteria established in its recovery plan. Completed State wolf management plans will provide adequate protection and management of the species if delisted in the WGL DPS. The proposed rule, if finalized, would remove this DPS from the protections of the Act. This proposed rule would also remove the currently designated critical habitat for the gray wolf in Minnesota and Michigan and remove the current special regulations for gray wolves in Minnesota.
Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Collection; Comment Request
Document Number: E6-4319
Type: Notice
Date: 2006-03-24
Agency: Department of the Interior, Minerals Management Service
To comply with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (PRA), MMS is inviting comments on a collection of information that we will submit to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review and approval. The information collection request (ICR) concerns the paperwork requirements in the regulations under 30 CFR 260, ``Outer Continental Shelf Oil and Gas Leasing.''
Upper Rio Grande Basin Water Operations Review, NM; Notice of Extension
Document Number: E6-4306
Type: Notice
Date: 2006-03-24
Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Reclamation, Reclamation Bureau
Notice is hereby given that the comment period for the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) for the Upper Rio Grande Water Operations Review, DES-05-80, is extended an additional 30 days to April 20, 2006.
Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) Civil Penalties
Document Number: E6-4303
Type: Notice
Date: 2006-03-24
Agency: Department of the Interior, Minerals Management Service
This notice provides a listing of civil penalties paid January 1, 2005, through December 31, 2005, for violations of the OCS Lands Act (OCSLA). The goal of the MMS OCS Civil Penalties Program is to assure safe and clean operations on the OCS. Through the pursuit, assessment, and collection of civil penalties and referrals for the consideration of criminal penalties, the program is designed to encourage compliance with OCS statutes and regulations. The purpose of publishing the penalties summary is to provide information to the public on violations of special concern in OCS operations and to provide an additional incentive for safe and environmentally sound operations.
Eastern States: Filing of Plat of Survey
Document Number: E6-4282
Type: Notice
Date: 2006-03-24
Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Land Management Bureau
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) will file the plat of survey of the lands described below in the BLM-Eastern States, Springfield, Virginia, 30 calender days from the date of publication in the Federal Register.
Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Reopening and Widening/Expansion of a 5-Year Review of the West Indian Manatee (Trichechus manatus
Document Number: E6-4280
Type: Notice
Date: 2006-03-24
Agency: Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior
We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), announce the amendment of an ongoing 5-year review of the West Indian manatee (Trichechus manatus) under section 4(c)(2)(A) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (Act). On April 14, 2005, we initiated a 5-year review only for the Florida manatee subpecies (Trichechus manatus latirostris) of this species. We now expand the scope of this 5-year review to include the entire species. We request that the public submit any applicable information on the West Indian manatee that has become available since its original listing. Based on the results of this 5-year review, we will make the requisite determination under section 4(c)(2)(B) of the Act.
Notice of Availability of Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan for Kirwin National Wildlife Refuge, Kirwin, KS
Document Number: E6-4265
Type: Notice
Date: 2006-03-24
Agency: Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) announces that a Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan (CCP) and Environmental Assessment (EA) for Kirwin National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) is available. This CCP, prepared pursuant to the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of 1997 (Improvement Act) and the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, describes how the Service intends to manage this Refuge for the next 15 years.
Notice of Intent To Prepare an Environmental Impact Statement for the Overland Pass Natural Gas Liquids Pipeline in Wyoming, Colorado, and Kansas
Document Number: E6-4245
Type: Notice
Date: 2006-03-24
Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Land Management Bureau
Pursuant to section 102 (2)(C) of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 and in response to a Right-of-Way (ROW) application filed by Williams Field Services Company (Williams), the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Rawlins Field Office, announces its intention to prepare an EIS and conduct public scoping meetings. Williams proposes to construct an approximately 750-mile long, 20-inch diameter natural gas liquids (NGL) pipeline originating at existing facilities in Opal, Wyoming, and ending at existing NGL processing facilities in Conway, Kansas. Of the 750 miles, approximately 78 miles of the pipeline would not be located near existing pipelines.
Oil and Gas Lease Acreage Limitation Exemptions and Reinstatement of Oil and Gas Leases
Document Number: 06-2848
Type: Rule
Date: 2006-03-24
Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Land Management Bureau
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is issuing this final rule to amend its regulations to conform to provisions of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (EPAct) that changed oil and gas lease acreage limitations and oil and gas lease reinstatement provisions. Section 352 of the EPAct expands the types of lease holdings that are exempt from the lease acreage holding limitations. Section 371 of the EPAct extends the time to file a lease reinstatement petition from 15 months to 24 months.
Notice of Proposed Agency Information Collection
Document Number: 06-2846
Type: Notice
Date: 2006-03-24
Agency: Office of the Secretary, Department of the Interior
In compliance with section 3506(c)(2)(A) of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, the Office of Civil Rights, Office of the Secretary, Department of the Interior (DOI), announces that it has forwarded to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) a proposed extension of the public information collection described below. Copies of the proposed information collection request may be obtained by contacting the Clearance Officer at the phone number listed below. Comments and suggestions on the requirement should be made directly to the Office of Management and Budget. A copy of the comments and suggestions should also be sent to the Clearance Officer.
Notice of Availability (NOA) of a Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) for the Pit 14 Coal Lease-by-Application (LBA) and Federal Coal Notice of Hearing, Wyoming
Document Number: 06-2599
Type: Notice
Date: 2006-03-24
Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Land Management Bureau
NOA of the DEIS for the Pit 14 Coal LBA, a maintenance lease for Federal coal in the decertified Green River-Hamms Fork Coal Production Region, Wyoming and Notice of Public Hearing.
Notice of Realty Action; Recreation and Public Purposes Act Classification; Nevada
Document Number: 06-2891
Type: Notice
Date: 2006-03-23
Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Land Management Bureau
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has examined and found suitable for conveyance under the provisions of the Recreation and Public Purposes (R&PP) Act, as amended, 60 acres of public land in Las Vegas, Clark County, Nevada. Clark County School District proposes to use the land for development of a high school.
Colorado River Management Plan, Final Environmental Impact Statement, Grand Canyon National Park, AZ
Document Number: 06-2761
Type: Notice
Date: 2006-03-23
Agency: Department of the Interior, National Park Service
Pursuant to subsection 102(2)(C) of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, codified as amended at 42 U.S.C. 4332(2)(C), the National Park Service (NPS) announces the availability of the Record of Decision for the Colorado River Management Plan, Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona. On February 17, 2006, the Director, Intermountain Region approved the Record of Decision for the project. As soon as practicable, the NPS will begin to implement the two Preferred Alternatives contained in the Final Environmental Impact Statement issued on November 10, 2005. For the Lees Ferry to Diamond Creek section of the Colorado River, the NPS has selected the preferred alternative, modified Alternative H, which will allow 5.5 months mixed motor/nonmotor use and 6.5 months nonmotorized use; reduce the maximum group size for commercial groups; establish use patterns based on daily, weekly and seasonal launch limits; and increase noncommercial use primarily in the shoulder and winter months. This alternative will allow for a moderate increase in estimated yearly passenger totals and allow passenger exchanges at Whitmore to accommodate commercial trips launching during the mixed-use seasons. Noncommercial permits will be awarded through a ``hybrid'' weighted lottery system for applicants applying for Lees Ferry to Diamond Creek river trips after boaters transition from the waitlist. This course of action and 7 other alternatives were analyzed in the Draft and Final Environmental Impact Statements for the Lees Ferry to Diamond Creek section of the Colorado River. The full range of foreseeable environmental consequences was assessed, and appropriate mitigating measures were identified. For the Lower Gorge of the Colorado River, the NPS has selected modified Alternative 4, which reflects an agreement reached between Grand Canyon National Park and the Hualapai Tribe, achieved through extensive consultation, on most issues relating to the elements of use, specifically for trips launching at or continuing past Diamond Creek. This alternative will allow overall HRR operations to increase, while reducing group size, limiting day trips in the non-peak season, and limiting overnight trips throughout the year. However, agreement could not be reached after extensive consultation and incorporation of Hualapai tribal concerns, on the level of pontoon boat operations and upstream travel from Lake Mead. This selected modified Alternative 4, incorporates the NPS's preference for lower levels of pontoon boat use in the Quartermaster area compared to levels proposed by the Hualapai Tribe. Pontoon operations, under this alternative, will continue to be allowed, with five boats operating at one time in the Quartermaster area and with a maximum daily capacity of 480 passengers, which could increase to 600 passengers per day based on favorable performance reviews of concession operations and resource monitoring data. Upriver, motorized trip takeouts will be allowed with a maximum of four trips per day during the peak season and one per day during the non-peak season; however, no jetboat tours will be allowed to operate. This course of action and 4 other alternatives were analyzed in the Draft and Final Environmental Impact Statements for the Lower Gorge of the Colorado River. The full range of foreseeable environmental consequences was assessed, and appropriate mitigating measures were identified. The Record of Decision includes a statement of the decision made, synopses of other alternatives considered, the basis for the decision, a description of the environmentally preferable alternatives, a finding on impairment of park resources and values, a listing of measures to minimize environmental harm, an overview of public involvement in the decision-making process, and a Statement of Findings.
Wyoming Abandoned Mine Land Reclamation Plan
Document Number: 06-2757
Type: Rule
Date: 2006-03-23
Agency: Department of the Interior, Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement, Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement Office
We are approving an amendment to the Wyoming abandoned mine land reclamation (AMLR) plan (hereinafter referred to as the ``Wyoming Plan'' or ``Plan'') under the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 (SMCRA or the Act). Wyoming proposed revisions and additions to its abandoned mine land (AML) Plan by removing phrases concerning liens for reclamation on private lands and by removing and adding words concerning contract eligibility. Wyoming intended to revise its Plan in accordance with the amendments required by OSM to make it consistent with SMCRA.
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