Biological Opinion National Marine Fisheries Service, Office of Protected Resources, Permits and Conservation Division Hydaburg Seaplane Facility Refurbishment Project, Hydaburg, Alaska

This opinion considers the effects of removal of existing piles,
installation and removal of temporary support piles, installation of permanent piles, and
support and material supply vessel transit.

This opinion considers the effects of the associated proposed issuance of an IHA on
threatened Mexico Distinct Population Segment (DPS) humpback whales (Megaptera
novaeangliae). In addition, the action agency requested a discretionary conference on the
proposed listing of the sunflower sea star (Pycnopodia helianthoides) (88 FR 16212, March 16,
2023).

The proposed action involves maintenance improvements to the existing Hydaburg Seaplane
Facility located in Hydaburg, AK with an expected start in fall 2024 and expected to occur
over 26 non-consecutive days during a 2-month construction window.

This opinion is based on information provided in the November 30, 2022, Biological
Assessment (BA) and subsequent revisions, and the Incidental Harassment Application (IHA)
and subsequent revisions prepared and submitted by HDR Inc. (HDR). A complete record of
this consultation is on file at NMFS’s Alaska Regional Office.