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What are the different types of Environmental Documents?

April 26, 2017different documents Environmental types

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What are the different types of Environmental Documents?

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The major differences between the types of documents are the level of detail, required study alternatives, and the procedural process. An Environmental Assessment (EA) is prepared if it is unknown whether or not a project has the potential to significantly impact environmental resources. If the EA identifies potential significant impacts then an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) must be prepared. If no significant impacts are found, then the EA concludes with a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI). If, during an EA it becomes obvious that anticipated environmental effects will be minimal, then the NEPA document may be changed from an EA to a Categorical Exclusion. A Categorical Exclusion (CE) is a category of actions that do not individually or cumulatively have a significant effect on the environment. Under 23 CFR 771.117 and CEQ Section 1508.4, and based on past experience with similar actions, FHWA has developed lists of actions that are to be documented as a CE.