03-19101. Request for Public Comments on Proposed Information Collection To Be Submitted to the Office of Management and Budget for Review Under the Paperwork Reduction Act

The proposal to extend the collection of information described below will be submitted to the Office of Management and Budget for approval under the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act (44 U.S.C. chapter 35). Copies of the proposed collection of information and related forms may be obtained by contacting the Bureau's clearance officer at the phone number listed below. Comments and suggestions on the proposal should be made within 60 days directly to the Bureau clearance officer, U.S. Geological Survey, 807 National Center, 12201 Sunrise Valley Drive, Reston, Virginia 20192; telephone [phone].

Specific public comments are requested as to:

1. Whether the collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the bureau, including whether the information will have practical utility;

2. The accuracy of the bureau's estimate of the burden of the collection of information, including the validity of the methodology and assumptions used;

3. The quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and

4. How to minimize the burden of the collection of information on those who are to respond, including the use of appropriate automated, electronic, mechanical, or other forms of information technology.

Title: Annual National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program Announcement.

OMB approval number: 1028-0051.

Abstract: Respondents submit proposals to support research in earthquake hazards and earthquake prediction to earth-science data and information essential to mitigate earthquake losses. This information will be used as the basis for selection and award of projects meeting the program objectives. Annual or final reports are required on each selected performance.

Bureau form number: None.

Frequency: Annual proposals, annual or final reports.

Description of respondents: Educational institutions, profit and non-profit organizations, individuals, and agencies of local or State governments.

Annual responses: 370.

Annual burden hours: 12,800 hours.

Bureau clearance officer: John Cordyack, 703-648-7313.

Dated: July 14, 2003.

Frances W. Pierce,

Acting Associate Director for Geology.