Why hasnt DCNR conducted an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)?
The federal government prepares environmental impact statements according to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). An EIS is not a statutory requirement for agencies of the Commonwealth, nor have we found any oil and gas-producing states requiring one. Most oil and gas-producing states conduct their own environmental analysis that they use to evaluate oil and gas exploration and development proposals. DCNR considered many of the same issues normally addressed in an EIS, including potential environmental impacts relating to forest fragmentation, water and air quality, noise and light pollution, soil disturbance, and wildlife habitat. DCNR also considered potential impacts relating to recreation, aesthetics, public safety, and infrastructure, such as state forest roads. DCNR is confident that the multi-level approach outlined in number one above will protect the forest environment on both state lands and surrounding private forest lands.
