Federal Register #2026-09800

Regulatory Authorization for Marine Mammal Incidental Take during Alaska In-Water Construction Projects

This opportunity concerns the issuance of Incidental Harassment Authorizations (IHAs) by the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), part of NOAA, for in-water construction projects in Alaska. - Government Buyer: - National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) - National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), Office of Protected Resources - Awarded to: - City of Homer (Homer Harbor System Four Float Replacement Project) - Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities (ADOT&PF) - The Aleut Corporation (Port of Adak Pier 5 Improvements Project) - Products/Services Requested: - Incidental Harassment Authorization (IHA) for the incidental take (by harassment) of marine mammals during in-water construction activities - No physical products, equipment, or OEMs are involved; this is a regulatory authorization - Notable Requirements: - Authorizations are issued under the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) - Includes mitigation, monitoring, and reporting requirements to minimize impacts on marine mammals and their habitats - Compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and Endangered Species Act (ESA) is required - Authorizations cover endangered species such as the Mexico DPS of humpback whales and western DPS of Steller sea lions - Period of Performance: - Each IHA is effective for up to one year from the date of notification by the IHA-holder, not to exceed one year from the date of issuance - Places of Performance: - Homer, Alaska (Homer Harbor System Four Float Replacement Project) - Adak Island, Alaska (Port of Adak Pier 5 Improvements Project)

Description

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has issued an incidental harassment authorization (IHA) to the City of Homer for the incidental take of marine mammals during the Homer Harbor System Four Float Replacement Project in Homer, Alaska. This authorization is granted under the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) and is effective for one year from the date of notification by the IHA-holder, not to exceed one year from the date of issuance (May 13, 2026). The IHA includes mitigation, monitoring, and reporting requirements to minimize impacts on marine mammals and their habitat. The authorization also complies with the National Environmental Policy Act and the Endangered Species Act, ensuring no jeopardy to endangered or threatened species or critical habitats.

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