What is the difference between a DEIS and an FEIS?
A draft environmental impact statement (DEIS) is a large document that compares different alternatives (see description above) to help select a preferred alternative. While the word “draft” makes it sound like the document isn’t finished, this document is actually a completed document that stands on its own. The DEIS is often a long document, considering several subjects. An executive summary, which explains the details in fewer pages, is also written at this point. Once the DEIS is published, government agencies and the public can comment on it. A final environmental impact statement (FEIS) responds to all comments that were made about the DEIS. This might result in the document being corrected, clarifications made, or additional analysis provided. This is usually a shorter document that also explains why the preferred alternative was chosen and any changes made to that alternative since the DEIS.
