04-4327. Comment Request: National Science Foundation-Application

AGENCY:

National Science Foundation.

ACTION:

Notice.

SUMMARY:

The National Science Foundation (NSF) is announcing plans to request renewed clearance of this collection. In accordance with the requirement of Section 3506(c)(2)(A) of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, we are providing opportunity for public comment on this action. After obtaining and considering public comment, NSF will prepare the submission requesting OMB clearance of this collection for no longer than 3 years.

Comments are invited on: (a) Whether the proposed collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the Agency, including whether the information shall have practical utility; (b) the accuracy of the Agency's estimate of the burden of the proposed collection of information; (c) ways to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information on respondents, including through the use of automated collection techniques or other forms of information technology; and (d) ways to minimize the burden of the collection of information on respondents, including through the use of automated collection techniques or other forms of information technology.

DATES:

Written comments should be received by April 27, 2004 be assured of consideration. Comments received after that date will be considered to the extent practicable.

ADDRESSES:

Written comments regarding the information collection and requests for copies of the proposed information collection request should be addressed to Suzanne Plimpton, Reports Clearance Officer, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Blvd. Rm. 295, Arlington, VA 22230, or by e-mail to [e-mail].

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Suzanne Plimpton on [phone] or send e-mail to [e-mail]. Individuals who use a telecommunications device for the deaf (TDD) may call the Federal Information Relay Service (FIRS) at 1-800-877-8339 between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., Eastern time, Monday through Friday.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Title of Collection: “Antarctic Conservation Act Application Permit Form.”

OMB Approval Number: 3145-0034.

Expiration Date of Approval: July 31, 2004.

Type of Request: Intent to seek approval to extend an information collection for three years.

Proposed Project: The current Antarctic Conservation Act Application Permit Form (NSF 1078) has been in use for several years. The form requests general information, such as name, affiliation, location, etc., and more specific information as to the type of object to be taken (plant, native mammal, or native bird.

Use of the Information: The purpose of the regulations (45 CFR part 670) is to conserve and protect the native mammals, birds, plants, and invertebrates of Antarctica and the ecosystem upon which they depend and to implement the Antarctic Conservation Act of 1978, Pub. L. 95-541, as amended by the Antarctic Science, Tourism, and Conservation Act of 1996, Pub. L. 104-227.

Burden on the Public: The Foundation estimates about 20 responses annually at 1/2 hour per response; this computes to approximately 20 hours annually.

Dated: February 23, 2004.

Suzanne H. Plimpton,

Reports Clearance Officer, National Science Foundation.