In accordance with the applicable requirements of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, the US Coast Guard consulted with the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) regarding Essential Fish Habitat (EFH).  It was determined through the EFH consultation that, with implementation of NMFS’ conservation recommendations (see Attachment C of the Record of Decision), the Goethals Bridge Replacement Project’s wetland and aquatic impacts would be limited to short-term, construction-related and localized effects on the fish and benthic community.  As part of the 30-day Public Notice on September 22, 2010, for the US Coast Guard Bridge Permit application, the US Coast Guard formally transmitted the Essential Fish Habitat Assessment to the NMFS.