NMFS Office of Protected Resources (OPR) released a draft Environmental Assessment evaluating its coordination role for the Sea Turtle Stranding and Salvage Network (STSSN), covering the Atlantic Ocean, Gulf of Mexico, and U.S. Caribbean Territories. The coordination role formally shifted to OPR in 2022, prompting development of the Draft 2024 STSSN Operating Procedures Handbook, which is subject to NEPA review. Two alternatives are analyzed: No Action (OPR withdraws from coordination) and continued NMFS OPR coordination guided by the new handbook. The EA covers five listed sea turtle species and evaluates impacts from stranding response activities, including direct takes. Comments are due January 29, 2025.12