EIS Process

At the time of its passage, the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969 established U.S. national policy promoting the enhancement of the human and natural environment. With limited exceptions, Federal agencies must comply with NEPA before making final decisions about federal actions that could have environmental effects. NEPA requires federal agencies to identify the purpose and need for action, the scope of the proposed action, a range of alternatives that meet the purpose and need, and to disclose the environmental effects of the proposed action. Since the proposed action to develop a new NWHC is considered to have the potential to significantly affect the quality of the human environment, USGS is currently focusing on compliance with NEPA including preparation of a Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).

The NEPA process also provides opportunities for public input prior to initiating Draft EIS preparation (i.e., public scoping), when interested individuals and organizations can provide input to help guide the analysis. It also provides individuals and organizations the opportunity to review and comment on the Draft EIS following its publication.