How does the NEPA process work?
After scoping potential issues and soliciting input from interested agencies and the public, the first step is to develop an Environmental Assessment (EA) and encourage public involvement. The EA process is used to determine if the projects impacts to the human environment, or scientific uncertainty about potential impacts, might be significant. If the EA supports the conclusion that, yes, significant impacts would likely result from the proposal, the Service must prepare a more comprehensive and detailed analysis and an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). If the EA supports the opposite conclusion, that significant impacts would not be likely to occur, the Regional Director may approve the proposal; he would document this decision in a Finding of No Significant impact (FONSI), which would be made available for public review.
Related Questions
- How do I provide comments or get additional information about the NEPA Environmental Impact Statement scoping process?
- What is the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s role in the NEPA Environmental Impact Statement process?
- What is NEPA and how does it apply to the transportation project development process?
