SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

The subject permit is requested under the authority of the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972, as amended (MMPA; 16 U.S.C. 1361 et seq.), the regulations governing the taking and importing of marine mammals (50 CFR part 216), the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (ESA; 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.), and the regulations governing the taking, importing, and exporting of endangered and threatened species (50 CFR parts 222-226).

The applicant proposes to collect photo-identification, morphometric, distribution, behavioral, and passive acoustic data on cetaceans in the New York Bight using vessels, unmanned aircraft systems, and acoustic recording devices. As the target species of the research, up to 80 fin ( Balaenoptera physalus), 30 sei ( B. borealis), 150 humpback ( Megaptera novaeangliae), and 150 minke ( B. acutorostrata) whales may be approached annually. Research would also be conducted on an additional 22 cetacean species. The permit would be valid for 5 years.

In compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.), an initial determination has been made that the activity proposed is categorically excluded from the requirement to prepare an environmental assessment or environmental impact statement.

Concurrent with the publication of this notice in the Federal Register , NMFS is forwarding copies of the application to the Marine Mammal Commission and its Committee of Scientific Advisors.

87 FR 12434