Action
Notice and request for comments.
Summary
Pursuant to a delegation of authority from the Secretary of Transportation, the Maritime Administrator is authorized to issue a determination allowing documented vessels with only registry endorsements or foreign flag vessels to be used in operations that treat aquaculture fish or protect aquaculture fish from disease, parasitic infestation, or other threats to their health when suitable vessels of the United States are not available that could perform those services. A request for such a determination has been received by the Maritime Administration (MARAD). This notice is being published to solicit comments intended to assist MARAD in determining whether suitable vessels of the United States are available that could perform the required services. If no suitable U.S.-flag vessels are available, the Maritime Administrator may issue a determination necessary to comply with USCG Aquaculture Support regulations. A brief description of the proposed aquaculture support service is listed in the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section below.