Federal Register #2026-18760

Letter of Authorization for Marine Mammal Incidental Take During Geophysical Surveys in Gulf of America

NOAA's National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has issued a Letter of Authorization (LOA) to TGS for incidental take of marine mammals during geophysical surveys in the Gulf of America. - Government buyer: - National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) - National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) - Awardee: - TGS - Scope of authorization: - Conduct three-dimensional ocean-bottom node (OBN) geophysical surveys - Survey covers approximately 600 lease blocks in East Breaks and Alaminos Canyon - Use of Gemini low-frequency airgun source - 102 days of sound source operation - Regulatory requirements: - Mitigation, monitoring, and reporting to minimize impacts on marine mammals - Detailed take estimates for sperm whales, beaked whales, dolphins, pilot whales, and other species - Authorization based on negligible impact and small numbers relative to population estimates - No products or OEMs procured; this is a regulatory authorization for survey activities

Description

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has issued a Letter of Authorization (LOA) to TGS for the incidental take of marine mammals during geophysical survey activities related to oil and gas operations in the Gulf of America. The LOA is effective from September 9, 2026, through September 1, 2027. The survey involves a three-dimensional ocean-bottom node survey over approximately 600 lease blocks using a low-frequency airgun source. The authorization includes mitigation, monitoring, and reporting requirements to minimize impacts on marine mammals.

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