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 regarding (a) 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; (b) the accuracy of the agency's estimate of burden including the validity of the methodology and assumptions used; (c) ways to enhance the quality, utility and clarity of the information to be collected; (d) 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 or other forms of information technology should be addressed to: Desk Officer for Agriculture, Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, Office of Management and Budget (OMB), OIRA_Submission@OMB.EOP.GOV or fax (202) 395-5806 and to Departmental Clearance Office, USDA, OCIO, Mail Stop 7602, Washington, DC 20250-7602. Comments regarding these information collections are best assured of having their full effect if received within 30 days of this notification. Copies of the submission(s) may be obtained by calling (202) 720-8681.
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.
Rural Development
Title: Rural Empowerment Zones and Enterprise Communities.
OMB Control Number: 0570-0027.
Summary of Collection: The Community Renewal Tax Relief Act of 2000 extends the duration for all Empowerment Zone through December 2009. The Rural Empowerment Zones and Enterprise Communities program (EZ/EC) provides economically depressed rural areas and communities with opportunities for growth and revitalization. USDA has designated 45 Champion communities from the EZ/EC applicant communities that have agreed to implement their strategic plans in accordance with the principles of the program and report regularly on their progress.
Need and Use of the Information: Periodic reviews provide the basis for USDA to continue or revoke a designation during the life of the federal program. These reports provide the progress on each project that the designee has specified in their implementation plans. A warning letter maybe sent to recipients who have been regarded as noncompliance or have made insufficient progress in implementing the strategic plan.
Description of Respondents: State, Local or Tribal Government.
Number of Respondents: 67.
Frequency of Responses: Reporting: On occasion.
Total Burden Hours: 1,456.
Rural Business-Cooperative Service
Title: 1890 Land Grant Institutions: Rural Entrepreneurial Program Outreach Initiative.
OMB Control Number: 0570-0041.
Summary of Collection: Rural Business-Cooperative Service's mission is to improve the quality of life in rural America by financing community facilities and businesses, providing technical assistance and creating effective strategies for rural development. Funding has been allocated to support the Outreach Initiative developed to help future entrepreneurs and businesses in rural communities that have the most economic need. Funds are awarded on a competitive basis using specific selection criteria.
Need and Use of the Information: The information collected will be used to determine (1) eligibility; (2) the specific purpose for which the funds will be utilized; (3) time frames or dates by which activities surrounding the use of funds will be accomplished; (4) feasibility of the project; (5) applicants' experience in managing similar activities; and (6) the effectiveness and innovation used to address critical issues vital to the development and sustainability of businesses. Without this information there would be no basis on which to award funds.
Description of Respondents: Business or other for-profit; farms; State, Local or Tribal Government.
Number of Respondents: 18.
Frequency of Responses: Reporting: Quarterly.
Total Burden Hours: 615.
Charlene Parker,
Departmental Information Collection Clearance Officer.
[FR Doc. E9-11544 Filed 5-15-09; 8:45 am]
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