USA Banner

Official US Government Icon

Official websites use .gov
A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure Site Icon

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS
A lock ( ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) Incidental Take Authorization (DOC – NOAA/NMFS)

Agency / Department
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Milestone Group
Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) Incidental Take Authorization (DOC – NOAA/NMFS)
Responsible Agency
DOC
Activity/Trigger
Projects in any sector that may result in potential 'take' as defined (16 U.S.C. 1362 Sec.3(13) defines as harass, hunt, capture, or kill, or attempt to harass, hunt, capture, or kill; (18) further defines 'harassment' as any act of pursuit, torment, or annoyance which (i) has the potential to injure or has the potential to disturb by causing disruption of behavioral patterns...)
Description
The Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) prohibits the take of marine mammals. Federal agencies and individuals must seek authorization to incidentally take marine mammals when conducting otherwise lawful activities. Two types of incidental take permits can be issued: Incidental Harassment Authorizations (IHAs) and Letters of Authorization (LOAs). IHAs are issued for actions that do not have the potential to cause marine mammal mortality or serious injury. An LOA is required for actions that have the potential to cause mortality or serious injury.
More Info Link
Read more
Statute or Regulations
Marine Mammal Protection Act (16 USC 1361-1423)
NEPA
0
Permit Inventory Agency
NOAA
Editorial Category
Tools