Federal Register #2026-13684

NOAA Authorizes Certified Rodent Detection Dog Services for Pribilof Islands

NOAA's National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) Alaska Region is authorizing the use of certified rodent detection dogs on the Pribilof Islands to prevent invasive rodent establishment and protect local wildlife and communities. - Government Buyer: - Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), NMFS Alaska Region - OEMs and Vendors: - No specific OEMs or commercial vendors are named; the requirement is for independently certified and trained rodent detection dog services - Products/Services Requested: - Deployment of rodent detection dogs that are independently certified and trained for invasive rodent detection - Dogs must be handled by professional handlers - Health and immunization requirements for dogs, including vaccination against diseases harmful to northern fur seals - Quarantine and waste management plans required - Pre-emptive inspection of vessels or cargo and response to rodent presence on the islands - Unique/Notable Requirements: - Authorization is limited to a maximum of 180 days per deployment per island - Only landowners (Federal, municipal, or Alaska Native Corporations) may request authorization - Detailed documentation required: number of dogs, proof of certification, immunization records, quarantine, and waste management plan - Supports conservation, subsistence, public health, and local economies on the Pribilof Islands

Description

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is creating an exception to the prohibition on landing dogs on the Pribilof Islands to allow the Regional Administrator to authorize independently certified and trained rodent detection dogs. These dogs will be deployed to detect and prevent the establishment of invasive rodents, which could have significant consequences for local wildlife and community health. The interim final rule supports Tribal, local, and Federal agency efforts under the Fur Seal Act and Marine Mammal Protection Act. Public comments are invited on this rule, which is effective August 6, 2026.

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