Shrnutí

Popis

NMFS prepares marine mammal stock assessment reports (SARs) as part of MMPA section 117 requirements. The reports are prepared in consultation with one or more of three regional Scientific Review Groups (SRGs) and are also available for public review and comment. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) also prepares SARs for marine mammals under their jurisdiction (manatees, polar bears, sea otters, and walruses). NMFS reviews reports for "strategic stocks" of marine mammals annually. For non-strategic stocks, reports are reviewed every three years, or when new information becomes available. If the reviews show that the status of the stock has changed or can be assessed more accurately, NMFS revises the report in consultation with the SRGs and after public review and comment.