Biological Opinion National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), Office of Protected Resources, Permits and Conservation Division Cordova Harbor Rebuild Project, Cordova, Alaska

This opinion considers the effects of the following in-water activities: demolition of the
existing harbor structures, excavating for the breakwater area, removal of existing piles, material excavation, bulkhead and float pile installation, fill placement, and support and material supply vessel transit.

Additionally this opinion considers the effects of the associated proposed issuance of an IHA
on the endangered western distinct population segment (DPS) Steller sea lion (Eumetopias
jubatus) and associated critical habitat, threatened Mexico DPS (Megatera novaeangliae) and
associated critical habitat, endangered Western North Pacific DPS humpback whale and
associated habitat, and endangered fin whale (Balaenoptera physalus).

The proposed action involves the repair and enhancement to the City of Cordova Harbor, to
be completed in two phases, with an expected start in September 2023 and expected
completion in April 2025. The phase I construction window is approximately 280 hours of in-
water work over 95 days. The phase II construction window is approximately 815 hours of in-
water work over 165 days.

This opinion is based on information provided in the February 2023 Biological Assessment (BA)
and subsequent revisions, and the Incidental Harassment Application (IHA) and subsequent
revisions prepared and submitted by Solstice Consulting. A complete record of this
consultation is on file at NMFS’s Alaska Regional Office.