Notice2023-25573
Request for Public Nominations for Authors and Scientific/Technical Inputs for the First National Nature Assessment
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Published
November 20, 2023
Issuing agencies
Interior Department
Abstract
The U.S. Department of the Interior, on behalf of the U.S. Global Change Research Program (USGCRP), is soliciting nominations for authors and scientific/technical inputs for the First National Nature Assessment (NNA1). Refer to the NNA1 Draft Prospectus for further information on the scope, topics, and overarching themes for the report. NNA1 will adhere to the Global Change Research Act, Information Quality Act, and Evidence Act requirements for quality, transparency, and accessibility as appropriate for a Highly Influential Scientific Assessment. NNA1 will also adhere to USGCRP standards and guidelines requiring it to be a policy-neutral and policy-relevant product.
Full Text
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<title>Federal Register, Volume 88 Issue 222 (Monday, November 20, 2023)</title>
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[Federal Register Volume 88, Number 222 (Monday, November 20, 2023)]
[Notices]
[Pages 80747-80750]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [<a href="http://www.gpo.gov">www.gpo.gov</a>]
[FR Doc No: 2023-25573]
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DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
Office of the Secretary
[234D0102DM, DS61200000, DLSN00000.000000, DX61201]
Request for Public Nominations for Authors and Scientific/
Technical Inputs for the First National Nature Assessment
AGENCY: Office of Policy Analysis, Interior.
ACTION: Request for public nominations.
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SUMMARY: The U.S. Department of the Interior, on behalf of the U.S.
Global Change Research Program (USGCRP), is soliciting nominations for
authors and scientific/technical inputs for the First National Nature
Assessment (NNA1). Refer to the NNA1 Draft Prospectus for further
information on the scope, topics, and overarching themes for the
report. NNA1 will adhere to the Global Change Research Act, Information
Quality Act, and Evidence Act requirements for quality, transparency,
and accessibility as appropriate for a Highly Influential Scientific
Assessment. NNA1 will also adhere to USGCRP standards and guidelines
requiring it to be a policy-neutral and policy-relevant product.
DATES: Nominations should be submitted via the web address specified
below and must be received by the close of this notice January 4, 2024.
While we request that scientific/technical inputs be submitted by the
close of this notice, they will be accepted on an ongoing basis
throughout the development of the report.
ADDRESSES: Nominations for authors must be submitted electronically
using a web form accessible via <a href="https://www.globalchange.gov/notices">https://www.globalchange.gov/notices</a>. A
short Curriculum Vitae (CV) of no more than four (4) pages must be
included. Scientific/technical inputs should also be submitted
electronically using a web form accessible via <a href="https://www.globalchange.gov/notices">https://www.globalchange.gov/notices</a>.
Instructions: Response to this notice is voluntary. Responses to
this notice may be used by the U.S. Government for program planning on
a non-attribution basis. The Department of the Interior therefore
requests that no business
[[Page 80748]]
proprietary information or copyrighted information be submitted in
response to this notice. Information relating to national defense or
national security of the United States of America should not be
submitted in response to the notice. Please note that the U.S.
Government will not pay for response preparation or for the use of any
information contained in the response.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Chris Avery, (202) 419-3474,
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#f596948390878cb5808692968785db929a83"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="b8dbd9ceddcac1f8cdcbdfdbcac896dfd7ce">[email protected]</span></a>, U.S. Global Change Research Program
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The U.S. Global Change Research Program
(USGCRP) was created by Congress in 1990 to ``assist the Nation and the
world to understand, assess, predict, and respond to human-induced and
natural processes of global change.'' USGCRP comprises 14 Federal
agencies that work together to carry out its legislative mandate.
USGCRP is conducting the First National Nature Assessment (NNA1) to
assess changes in nature as an aspect of global change. The scope of
NNA1 is to assess the status, observed trends, and future projections
of America's lands, waters, wildlife, biodiversity, and ecosystems and
the benefits they provide, including connections to the economy, public
health, equity, climate mitigation and adaptation, and national
security.
NNA1 development will be transparent and inclusive, offering
opportunities for public participation throughout the process. The
development of NNA1 is overseen by a Federal Steering Committee (FSC)
comprising representatives from each of USGCRP's member agencies. The
production and review processes are designed to result in a report that
is authoritative, timely, relevant, and policy neutral; valued by
authors and users; accessible to the widest possible audience; and
fully compliant with the Global Change Research Act and pertinent
Federal laws and policies. In August 2023, comments were solicited
through a 45-day request for information on the draft National Nature
Assessment Prospectus (<a href="https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2023/08/04/2023-16794/draft-prospectus-for-the-first-national-nature-assessment">https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2023/08/04/2023-16794/draft-prospectus-for-the-first-national-nature-assessment</a>). Comments received on the draft Prospectus informed the
list of potential topics included in Section I of the current request.
Author nominees may be invited to serve as Chapter Lead Authors,
Authors, or Technical Contributors to NNA1. Chapter Lead Authors will,
with input and guidance from the Federal Steering Committee (FSC),
establish author teams comprising Federal and non-Federal experts. A
Federal Coordinating Lead Author selected by the FSC will serve as a
liaison between the author team and Federal agencies. For more
information on author roles, see <a href="https://www.globalchange.gov/nna">https://www.globalchange.gov/nna</a>. Note
that other roles may be developed by the FSC on an as needed basis as
the report develops.
In addition, this request presents an opportunity to submit
relevant scientific/technical inputs to inform the assessment, as well
as Indigenous Knowledge inputs for similar use. This request also
outlines planned opportunities for the public to engage in the NNA1
development process.
Additional details and instructions for submitting nominations for
authors and scientific/technical inputs are available at <a href="https://www.globalchange.gov/notices">https://www.globalchange.gov/notices</a>. For the responsibilities and expectations
of the different types of authors and contributors, please see <a href="https://www.globalchange.gov/nna">https://www.globalchange.gov/nna</a>.
All participation in and contributions to NNA1 will be without
compensation and will be potentially included in the publicly released
NNA. By voluntarily participating in the NNA1, you acknowledge the
following:
<bullet> Participation in NNA1 means facilitating the development
of NNA1, contributing new work to NNA1, or contributing pre-existing
work for NNA1. Any such work will be incorporated into NNA1 at the
discretion of the Federal Government, including the possibility of
modification, without any compensation and without redaction under the
Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) or otherwise.
<bullet> All contributions to NNA1 of text and original figures
(those newly created for NNA1 and not previously published) will be
released under the Creative Commons 1.0 Universal Public Domain
Dedication (CC0 1.0). Such contributions will not be protected by
copyright or other intellectual property rights. Data, algorithms/
models, and software code used to create or support the creation of
text and original figures will also be publicly released in connection
with NNA1. In some cases, such data, algorithms/models, and software
code may be subject to copyright restrictions prohibiting both their
use for commercial purposes and the creation of derivative works, but
any such restrictions may not prohibit their use for the purpose of
reproducing results.
<bullet> Participants assume all risks associated with
participation in NNA1. By participating, participants inherently waive
all claims against the Federal Government and its related entities,
except for claims based on willful misconduct, for any injury, death,
damage, or loss of property, revenue, or profits (whether direct,
indirect, or consequential) arising from participation in NNA1.
<bullet> By participating, participants agree to indemnify the
Federal Government in the event that it suffers liability or damages as
a result of its use of the contribution.
Call for Nominations for Authors
Nominations are sought for authors with pertinent subject matter
expertise or relevant background, including Indigenous Knowledge
holders, in at least one of the topics delineated below. Nominees
should have a demonstrated history of expertise and proficiency in at
least one of the topics delineated below. Nominations are encouraged
from all nongovernmental sectors.
The NNA Federal Steering Committee recognizes the value of
Indigenous Knowledge that Tribal Nations and Indigenous peoples have
gained and passed down from generation to generation and recognizes
Indigenous Knowledge as one of many important bodies of knowledge that
can contribute to NNA1. The FSC understands that multiple lines of
evidence or ways of knowing can lead to better-formed assessments and
encourages nominations of Indigenous Knowledge holders as Chapter Lead
Authors, Authors, or Technical Contributors.
Submissions must document that nominees have demonstrated
backgrounds such that they could contribute to the development of a
robust assessment as subject matter experts in one or more of the
listed topics. In addition, individuals interested in being considered
for chapter leadership positions should have experience with leading
collaborative teams under deadlines. Authors volunteering to assist in
writing NNA1 are providing an important service to the United States.
Author roles allow these volunteers to contribute to the first-ever
national assessment of nature. In addition to providing an opportunity
to inform policy, participation in NNA1 will allow authors to expand
their professional networks and visibility, and to explore
opportunities to create derivative products. The Federal Government
will not provide financial compensation for these roles. The Federal
Government is expected to provide travel costs to authors to attend
meetings if requested for NNA1. Formal acknowledgment will be provided
to each author's institution.
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Responses to this request for nominations for authors must be
submitted within 45 days of the opening of this notice. The nomination
forms can be accessed via <a href="https://www.globalchange.gov/notices">https://www.globalchange.gov/notices</a>.
Interested persons may nominate themselves or third parties for these
roles, and individuals may submit multiple nominations.
Each nomination must include (1) the nominee's full name, title,
institutional affiliation, and contact information; (2) the nominee's
area(s) of expertise; (3) the proposed NNA1 topic(s) (see below) for
which the nominee is qualified; (4) a short description of the
nominee's qualifications relative to contributing to the report; and
(5) a current CV [maximum length four (4) pages].
Nominations with missing information, or for nominees who do not
meet the eligibility requirements above, may not be considered.
NNA1 will attempt to address the full breadth of each topic and
seeks a suitably diverse author pool, including Indigenous Knowledge
holders, biophysical and social scientists, as well as traditionally
underrepresented groups. Selection criteria for all author positions
will consider expertise, disciplinary background, career status,
diversity, and geographic representation.
Nominees may be invited to serve as Chapter Lead Authors, Authors,
or Technical Contributors to NNA1.
Persons selected as Chapter Lead Authors will be informed after the
close of the nominations window. Eligible nominees not selected as
Chapter Lead Authors will be considered for roles as Authors or
Technical Contributors.
The NNA1 report use-inspired and knowledge driven and will be
organized around key thematic interests identified through Federal
agency, public, and Tribal engagement efforts. These themes are
detailed in the draft National Nature Assessment Prospectus (<a href="https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2023/08/04/2023-16794/draft-prospectus-for-the-first-national-nature-assessment">https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2023/08/04/2023-16794/draft-prospectus-for-the-first-national-nature-assessment</a>). The NNA1 report
will include, but is not limited to, the following topics (subject to
change):
<bullet> Assessment approach of NNA1
<bullet> The Status, Trends and Future Projections of Nature in the
U.S.
<bullet> Status, Trends and Future Projections of Drivers of Change
of Nature in the U.S.
<bullet> Nature and Equity
<bullet> Nature and Human Health and Wellbeing
<bullet> Nature and Its Relationship to Cultural Heritage
<bullet> Nature and Safety and Security
<bullet> Nature and the Economy
NNA1 seeks authors with expertise in the following areas (subject
to change):
<bullet> Ecology, evolutionary biology, genetics, and other
conservation-relevant biophysical sciences, including those with
expertise in the status and trends in biodiversity and ecosystems
(including nutrients), culturally important species, and climate
adaptation and mitigation.
<bullet> Environmental social science including those with
expertise in anthropology, sociology, geography, political science,
psychology, and environmental history.
<bullet> Changes in nature as they relate to aspects of domestic
safety and security, including natural hazards, desertification,
changes in populations of pests and disease, loss of arable land, and
other changes in nature that affect food and water security, and that
directly or indirectly influence public safety and patterns of human
behavior and movements.
<bullet> Connections between nature and human health and well-
being, including physical, mental, and public health and well-being.
<bullet> Drivers of change in biodiversity and ecosystems.
<bullet> Economic activities, infrastructure, and employment that
are directly or indirectly related to nature, including how changes in
nature affect economic benefits, risks, and opportunities.
<bullet> Environmental justice and equity, including but not
limited to topics such as access to nature and the benefits of nature,
disproportionate impacts of environmental hazards, and equitable access
to nature-based solutions.
<bullet> Data visualization and scientific graphics.
<bullet> Further, authors are welcome to nominate themselves for
topics not listed above that are consistent with the scope of NNA1.
Call for Relevant Scientific/Technical Inputs To Inform NNA1:
Submissions of scientific/technical inputs are sought for NNA1.
Relevant scientific and/or technical research studies--including
observed, modeled, and/or projected changes in nature and/or benefits
from nature--are requested. Scientific/technical inputs that are peer-
reviewed and published, or accepted for publication, in journals and/or
government reports are welcome. Please refer to the NNA1 topics list
above to target submissions. Submissions of information for cross-
cutting topics are especially encouraged. For best consideration,
please submit by the close of this notice. Submissions must be uploaded
electronically via the link provided at <a href="https://www.globalchange.gov/notices">https://www.globalchange.gov/notices</a>.
The NNA Federal Steering committee understands that Indigenous
Knowledge may be sensitive, sacred, or belongs to certain families or
clans, and recognizes concerns of Tribes and Indigenous Peoples
regarding privacy or potential threats to natural or cultural
resources. As such, the NNA Federal Steering committee will follow the
guidance on Indigenous Knowledge provided by the White House Office of
Science and Technology Policy and Council on Environmental Quality
(<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/OSTP-CEQ-IK-Guidance.pdf">https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/OSTP-CEQ-IK-Guidance.pdf</a>). We welcome discussion with Indigenous Knowledge holders
regarding the potential benefits and risks of sharing Indigenous
Knowledge, including the potential for public release under the Freedom
of Information Act and other public disclosure obligations. When
possible, the NNA team will collaborate with Tribal Nations and
Indigenous Peoples to develop the means for information sharing that
reduces the risk of disclosure. The NNA team will work with Tribes and
Indigenous Peoples to facilitate informed decision making.
Notice of Planned Public Engagement Opportunities For NNA1:
Public engagement has been a priority for NNA1 with more than 25
public outreach activities to date. Multiple future opportunities for
public engagement to inform NNA1 will be presented throughout the
report's development. The following planned public engagement schedule
is presented to notify the public of these coming opportunities. Note
that the proposed time ranges are tentative and subject to change based
on the timing of various development stages for NNA.
<bullet> Public comment on NNA1 annotated outline (Q2 2024)
<bullet> Public engagement workshops and webinars (Q2 2024 through
Q3 2025)
<bullet> Public call for Review Editors (Q4 2025)
<bullet> Public comment on NNA1 Third Order Draft (Q3 & Q4 2025)
<bullet> National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine
peer review of NNA1 Third Order Draft (Q4 & Q5 2025)
Interested parties are invited to participate in these public
engagement opportunities to ensure robust public input to NNA1.
Specific dates and locations for all engagements will be provided on
<a href="https://www.globalchange.gov/notices">https://www.globalchange.gov/notices</a> as they are determined.
[[Page 80750]]
Members of the public may also sign up to receive updates through
USGCRP's bimonthly newsletter at <a href="https://www.globalchange.gov/newsletter-signup">https://www.globalchange.gov/newsletter-signup</a>.
Jacob Malcom,
Director, Office of Policy Analysis Office of Policy, Management, and
Budget.
[FR Doc. 2023-25573 Filed 11-17-23; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4334-63-P
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