NOAA's Eco-Questionnaire Gets Public Comment Refresh
Published Date: 3/19/2025
Notice
Summary
NOAA is renewing a questionnaire that helps them check if projects asking for federal funding follow environmental rules. About 736 applicants will spend around 10 hours each filling it out, making sure their projects don’t harm the environment. This renewal keeps the process smooth and on track, with a 30-day public comment window open now.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
Questionnaire required to get NOAA funding
If you apply for NOAA federal funding, you must complete an Environmental Compliance Questionnaire (OMB Control No. 0648-0538) before your application can be submitted for final funding approval. NOAA expects about 736 applicants and the questionnaire is required to obtain or retain the funding benefit.
Estimated burden increased to 10 hours
NOAA increased the average time to complete the questionnaire to 10 hours per response, up from the previously cited 3 hours, based on respondent feedback. The change applies to each applicant required to answer the Questionnaire.
Scale: 736 applicants, 7,360 hours total
NOAA estimates 736 respondents will complete the Questionnaire once each year, for a combined total of 7,360 annual burden hours. The collection is a renewal of an existing OMB-approved form (0648-0538).
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