Hawaiian Spinner Dolphin Draft Environmental Impact Statement and Regulatory Impact Review

NOAA Fisheries is proposing to adopt regulations to enhance protections for Hawaiian spinner dolphins from various forms of take from human activities that cause harassment or disturbance and reduce the impact of viewing and interaction on these animals. This action is being undertaken pursuant to the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), 16 U.S.C. 1361 et seq., and its implementing regulations. Alternatives to the proposed action and potential environmental impacts are discussed in this Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS). The alternatives, or the actions considered as part of the alternatives, are not expected to have measurable negative impacts on spinner dolphin populations, but may have socio-economic impacts on commercial tour operators operating in certain geographic locations. The actions considered are not expected to result in irreversible or irretrievable commitments of resources.

This DEIS is a stand-alone document and does not supplement an earlier National Environmental Policy Act document. Comments on this DEIS must be received by October 25, 2016.