Search Results for keywords:"NEPA compliance"

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has released a Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the proposed Ranegras Plains Energy Center project in La Paz County, Arizona. This project involves constructing a large-scale solar energy facility on public lands and requires a right-of-way grant for its development. The BLM outlines several project alternatives, including a preferred option that minimizes soil impacts. They are seeking public comments on the Draft EIS within 45 days of its announcement, and they plan to host a virtual public meeting to discuss the project further.

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) announced final actions regarding the M-37 Improvement Project in Michigan. The project includes widening and reconstructing parts of the M-37 highway, adding new traffic signals, and repaving nonmotorized paths. The FHWA issued a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) and a Section 4(f) de minimis finding, meaning the environmental impact is minimal. Claims for judicial review of these actions must be filed by September 15, 2025.

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission has received an application from Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) for a new major license to operate the Balch Hydroelectric Project in California. Located on the North Fork Kings River, the project includes a diversion dam, reservoirs, powerhouses, and infrastructure necessary for electricity generation and distribution. The public can submit scoping comments on the environmental impact of the project by January 12, 2025. The Commission will evaluate the potential environmental effects as part of the licensing process and invites the public to participate in this process.

The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is working on an environmental impact statement (EIS) to explore different approaches to managing predator damage in Oregon. They are seeking public comments to help outline various alternatives, environmental issues, and other concerns to be considered in the EIS. This effort includes cooperation with the U.S. Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management, and aims to replace existing environmental assessments with a more comprehensive analysis. The public is encouraged to submit comments and scientific data by February 22, 2021.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a notice about the Draft Environmental Assessment (EA) for SpaceX Falcon 9 operations at Space Launch Complex 40 in Cape Canaveral, Florida. They are seeking public comments and have announced a virtual public meeting on April 16, 2025, from 6-8 p.m. Eastern. The assessment looks into the potential environmental impacts of up to 120 annual launches, the construction of a landing zone, and airspace closures. Public comments are open until April 24, 2025, and can be submitted online, by mail, or during the virtual meeting.

The National Park Service (NPS) is allowing bicycles on certain roads and trails in the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park. This decision aligns with the park's goals of offering recreational activities while preserving its natural and historical features. The use of bicycles is not expected to harm wildlife or cultural resources, and safety measures such as signage will be implemented to prevent accidents. Additionally, the NPS plans to evaluate the potential use of electric bicycles in the future.

The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), part of the Department of Health and Human Services, has submitted an Information Collection Request (ICR) to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review. This action is in compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. HRSA is seeking to extend the approval of the Environmental Information and Documentation (EID) checklist, which helps ensure that projects funded by HRSA comply with environmental laws like the National Environmental Policy Act. The public can comment on this proposal until February 18, 2025, and these comments will assist OMB in its decision-making process.

The Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) has released new guidance to help federal departments and agencies comply with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) during emergencies. This guidance outlines alternative procedures for environmental reviews when emergencies require quick action and involve significant effects that would normally need an environmental impact statement. The document includes steps agencies should take during emergencies, including consulting with CEQ and coordinating with other agencies and governments to ensure public safety and resource protection are prioritized while complying with NEPA requirements.

The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) has decided to go ahead with Alternative B, which involves building and running a 500-megawatt gas plant at the New Caledonia Gas Plant site in Mississippi. This project aims to meet increasing electricity demands and integrate renewable energy sources while keeping costs low and ensuring reliable power for their service area. The plan uses existing site infrastructure to minimize environmental impacts and is part of TVA's strategy to reduce carbon emissions in the long term. Although there will be temporary environmental effects during construction, the project will benefit the economy and help incorporate more solar power into the grid.

Lake Lynn Generation, LLC has applied to relicense its hydroelectric project on the Cheat River, located near Morgantown, West Virginia and Point Marion, Pennsylvania. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) plans to prepare an environmental assessment (EA) to evaluate the potential impact of this project, as it is not expected to significantly affect the environment. The EA will be open for a 45-day comment period, allowing interested parties to provide feedback. For questions or public participation help, contact FERC's Office of Public Participation.