NOAA Asks 79 Antarctic Researchers and Fishers for More Paperwork
Published Date: 10/16/2026
Notice
Summary
NOAA is asking for approval to keep collecting info from 79 folks involved in Antarctic marine research and fishing. They want to make sure everyone follows rules to protect sea life, with tasks like applying for permits and reporting catches. This keeps the ocean safe without adding extra hassle or costs, and you’ve got 30 days to share your thoughts!
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 4 costs, 0 mixed.
NOAA continues permit and reporting collection
NOAA is renewing an information collection that covers 79 unique respondents and requires a total annual burden of 355 hours. The notice lists specific tasks and time estimates (for example: 1 hour to apply for a CEMP research permit, 2 hours to apply for a harvesting permit, 4 hours to install a vessel monitoring device, 30 minutes to complete a toothfish catch document).
Permits required for Antarctic fishing and activities
If you engage in harvesting, transshipping, importing, or conduct activities in a CCAMLR Ecosystem Monitoring Program (CEMP) site, U.S. regulations require you to apply for and hold a permit. Examples in the notice include 2 hours to apply for a harvesting permit and 1 hour to apply for a CEMP research permit.
Importers/dealers must submit toothfish import and re-export paperwork
Dealers importing frozen Patagonian and Antarctic toothfish must submit applications for pre-approval certifications of imports and submit re-export documentation; the notice lists 15 minutes to apply for pre-approval of toothfish imports and 15 minutes to complete re-export catch documents. Dealers must also complete a 30-minute toothfish catch document when applicable.
Researchers must report CEMP and scientific data
Individuals involved in certain scientific research in the Convention Area must report research information and, where applicable, apply for research permits; the notice lists 1 hour to apply for a CEMP research permit and 1 hour to report on research.
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