Federal Register #23861

NOAA/NMFS Seeks Public Comment on Permit Modification for Endangered Fish Research in Maine Rivers

This notice concerns a regulatory action by the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), part of NOAA, regarding a permit modification for endangered fish species research in Maine rivers. - Government Buyer: - National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), Office of Protected Resources, under NOAA (Department of Commerce) - Applicant: - Midwest Biodiversity Institute (MBI) - Scope of Permit Modification: - Modification of ESA Section 10(a)(1)(B) Incidental Take Permit No. 23861 - Covers increased annual take limits for ESA-listed shortnose sturgeon, Atlantic sturgeon, and Atlantic salmon - Applies to electrofishing surveys in the Lower Kennebec, Middle Kennebec, and Sebasticook Rivers, Maine - Expansion of study areas and monitoring needs cited as reasons for modification - Conservation and Mitigation Measures: - Limiting sampling periods - Coordination with NOAA and Maine Department of Marine Resources - Specialized personnel training - Adaptive management to minimize harm to listed species - Notable Details: - No products or commercial services are being procured; this is a regulatory notice seeking public comment - The permit modification includes a 2-year rolling take limit for the remainder of the permit duration

Description

The Midwest Biodiversity Institute (MBI) has applied for a permit modification under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) for the incidental take of ESA-listed shortnose sturgeon, Atlantic sturgeon from the Gulf of Maine and New York Bight Distinct Population Segments, and Atlantic salmon from the Gulf of Maine DPS. The permit relates to lawful sampling of non-ESA listed fish in the Lower Kennebec, Middle Kennebec, and Sebasticook Rivers in Maine. The modification requests increased annual incidental take limits based on increased encounters and expanded study area coverage. The conservation plan includes measures to minimize and mitigate impacts, such as limiting sampling periods, coordinating with agencies, training personnel, and adaptive management to avoid harm to listed species.

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