Taking and Importing Marine Mammals; Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Fisheries Independent Research Programs

Résumé

NMFS has received a request from the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ALDCNR) for authorization to take small numbers of marine mammals incidental to fisheries independent research programs in Mobile Bay and adjacent waters of Alabama over the course of five years from the date of issuance. Pursuant to regulations implementing the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), NMFS is announcing receipt of the ALDCNR's request for the development and implementation of regulations governing the incidental taking of marine mammals. NMFS invites the public to provide information, suggestions, and comments on the ALDCNR's application and request.