What does a typical consultation entail?
Because Section 6001 is still so new, we don’t yet know what is considered “typical.” According to the regulation, consultation means that “one or more parties confer with other identified parties in accordance with an established process and, prior to taking action(s), considers the views of the other parties and periodically informs them about action(s) taken.” • Consultations will likely be initiated by the transportation planners. Ideally, they will contact the necessary conservation professionals well in advance (1-3 months prior) to allow for maximum preparation and participation. • Initial communication could take place over e-mail, followed by conference calls. • Consultations could be conducted in one meeting or a series of meetings. • Planners may choose to meet with each participating agency separately or hold one large forum for all parties to meet at once. • To the extent possible, all participants should share relevant documents for review prior to the actual consultation
