Federal Register #2026-06394

Modification of Incidental Harassment Authorization for USCG Fast Response Cutter Homeporting in Sitka, Alaska

This opportunity involves a proposed modification to an Incidental Harassment Authorization (IHA) for the U.S. Coast Guard's fast response cutter (FRC) homeporting project in Sitka, Alaska. - Government Buyer: - National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), Office of Protected Resources - Project Scope: - Modification of an IHA to allow incidental take of small numbers of nine marine mammal species during construction - Construction activities include: - Impact pile driving - Vibratory pile driving - Vibratory pile removal - Down-the-hole (DTH) drilling - Demolition and construction of shore-side facilities for a new seagoing buoy tender pier and FRC floating dock - Services Requested: - Provision of up to six Protected Species Observers (PSOs) meeting NMFS standards - Marine mammal monitoring during all pile driving and construction activities (up to 113 non-consecutive days) - Unique Requirements: - Strict marine mammal monitoring and mitigation measures, including soft start techniques and shutdown zones - Detailed monitoring plan and reporting - No serious injury or mortality of marine mammals expected - OEMs and Vendors: - No specific OEMs or commercial vendors are named; the notice focuses on regulatory compliance and environmental monitoring - Place of Performance: - Moorings Sitka in Sitka Harbor, Alaska (federal facility)

Description

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has received a request from the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) to modify an incidental harassment authorization (IHA) originally issued on December 20, 2024, effective from September 1, 2026, through August 31, 2027. The modification concerns the incidental take of small numbers of nine marine mammal species by Level A and Level B harassment during construction activities related to homeporting fast response cutters in Sitka, Alaska. The proposed changes include adjustments to the project duration, design, and take estimates. NMFS is seeking public comments on this proposed modification before making a final decision.

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