Environmental assessment on the effects of the issuance of a scientific research permit (file no. 14394) to conduct research on shortnose sturgeon in the Altamaha River, Georgia Effects of the issuance of a scientific research permit (file no. 14394) to conduct research on shortnose sturgeon in the Altamaha River, Georgia Scientific research permit (file no. 14394) to conduct research on shortnose sturgeon in the Altamaha River, Georgia

"The current EA analyzed the effects of shortnose sturgeon research on the environment in the Altamaha River. This proposed research is a continuation of similar research objectives conducted under Permit 1420-01 which expired on September 30, 2009. The permit would be valid for five years from the date of issuance and would authorize non-lethal sampling methods on up to 500 shortnose sturgeon annually, but not to exceed 1,500 over the life of the permit. Research activities would include netting, measurement (length, weight, photos), genetic and fin-ray tissue sampling, PIT and sonic tagging, anesthesia, laparoscopy, and gastric lavage. To document spawning in the river, up to 20 eggs or larvae would be lethally collected with artificial substrates annually. Additionally, one incidence of unintentional mortality or serious injury is proposed over the life of the permit"--Cover letter summary.