Biological Opinion U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Port of Nome Modification Project, Nome, Alaska

This opinion considers the effects of disturbance resulting from
removing a portion of the existing rubble-mound causeway, extending the causeway in an “L”
shape, installing sheet piles and fender piles for new docks, and dredging the new and
existing basins. In addition, the effects of project-specific vessel traffic between Anchorage and Nome for the delivery of supplies and equipment is also considered. These actions have
the potential to affect the endangered bowhead whale (Balaena mysticetus), endangered fin
whale (Balaenoptera physalus), endangered North Pacific right whale (Eubalaena japonica),
endangered Western North Pacific distinct population segment (DPS) humpback whale
(Megaptera novaeangliae), threatened Mexico DPS humpback whale (Megaptera
novaeangliae), endangered Western North Pacific DPS gray whale (Eschrichtius robustus),
threatened Arctic subspecies of ringed seal (Phoca hispida hispida), threatened Beringia DPS
bearded seal (Erignathus barbatus nauticus), endangered Western DPS Steller sea lion
(Eumetopias jubatus), endangered Cook Inlet beluga whale (Delphinapterus leucas), and
critical habitat for ringed and bearded seals, Steller sea lions, Western North Pacific and
Mexico DPS humpback whales, North Pacific right whales, and Cook Inlet beluga whales.

The proposed action involves the enlargement and improvement of the harbor in Nome,
Alaska, to increase vessel capacity and ability of large vessels to maneuver, and to alleviate
congestion at existing port facilities.

This opinion is based on information provided in the Port of Nome Modification Project
Biological Assessment (BA) (USACE 2023) and the proposed IHA application for the same
action. A complete record of this consultation is on file at NMFS Alaska Region office.