2016-09440. Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request

April 19, 2016.

The Department of Agriculture has submitted the following information collection requirement(s) to OMB for review and clearance under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, Public Law 104-13. Comments are requested regarding (1) whether the collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the agency, including whether the information will have practical utility; (2) the accuracy of the agency's estimate of burden including the validity of the methodology and assumptions used; (3) ways to enhance the quality, utility and clarity of the information to be collected; and (4) ways to minimize the burden of the collection of information on those who are to respond, including through the use of appropriate automated, electronic, mechanical, or other technological collection techniques and other forms of information technology.

Comments regarding this information collection received by May 25, 2016 will be considered. Written comments should be addressed to: Desk Officer for Agriculture, Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, Office of Management and Budget (OMB), New Executive Office Building, 725 17th Street NW., Washington, DC 20503. Commentors are encouraged to submit their comments to OMB via email to: [e-mail] or fax [phone] and to Departmental Clearance Office, USDA, OCIO, Mail Stop 7602, Washington, DC 20250-7602. Copies of the submission(s) may be obtained by calling [phone].

An agency may not conduct or sponsor a collection of information unless the collection of information displays a currently valid OMB control number and the agency informs potential persons who are to respond to the collection of information that such persons are not required to respond to the collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number.

Forest Service

Title: Forest Service Ride-Along Program Application.

OMB Control Number: 0596-0170.

Summary of Collection: The Forest Service (FS) ride-along program allows the general public or other interested person to accompany agency law enforcement personnel as they conduct their normal field duties, including access to and discussions about agency law enforcement vehicles, procedures, and facilities. The program provides an opportunity for officers to enhance the public's understanding and support of the agency program and to increase agency understanding of public and community concerns. The program also aids the agency's recruitment program by allowing interested persons to observe a potential career choice or to participate in innovative intern-type programs, and by allowing the agency to showcase the quality of its program and services.

Need and Use of the Information: Information will be collected from any person who voluntarily approaches the FS and wishes to participate in the program. The FS 5300-33 program application form will be used to conduct a minimal background check and the FS 5300-34 is a liability waiver form that requires the applicant's signature and their written assurance that they have read and understood the form. The information collected from the forms will be used by FS and, in appropriate part, by any person or entity needed and authorized by the FS to provide the needed background information (primarily applicable local law enforcement agencies, state criminal justice agencies maintaining state justice records, and by the FBI). If the information is not collected, the program could not operate.

Description of Respondents: Individuals or households; Federal Government; State, Local or Tribal Government.

Number of Respondents: 130.

Frequency of Responses: Reporting: Other (per applicant).

Total Burden Hours: 22.

Ruth Brown,

Departmental Information Collection Clearance Officer.