The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) was passed by the U.S. Congress in 1969. NEPA acts as an umbrella and allows for a concise process within which to comply with other environmental regulatory processes. NEPA applies to the United States, territories and possessions, and Antarctica, as well as 12 nautical miles seaward from adjacent shorelines. NEPA ensures that federal agencies consider environmental impacts of actions in planning and decision making, and establishes national policy and goals for the protection of the environment. It requires federal decision makers to consider the environmental consequences of a proposed action before making the decision to take the action. It is studying, developing, and describing appropriate alternatives to recommended courses of action.
Environmental Impact Statement
Because the proposed action of realigning forces on Guam may significantly affect the human or natural environment, the Department of Defense is required to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). An EIS is a detailed study of the potential consequences that a federal action may have on the human environment. An EIS informs decision makers and the public of reasonable alternatives that could avoid or reduce impacts or enhance the quality of the environment.
The EIS Process
To prepare an EIS, biologists, engineers, planners and other technical professionals examine existing conditions such as land use, socioeconomics, noise, air quality, water quality, traffic, vegetation and wildlife, and hazardous materials. Data is gathered and analyzed to identify how the proposed action might change current conditions. Issues most likely to be of concern to the public are identified and addressed. Where findings indicate that there might be significant impacts, the agency identifies ways to reduce or minimize those impacts.
The EIS process includes defined steps. These steps are:
- An agency identifies a need for action and develops a proposal. If the agency identifies that the proposed action will result in potential significant impacts, an EIS is required.
- Notice of Intent Publication: Provides an overview of the proposed project
- Scoping: An early and open opportunity for public review provides an opportunity for the public to comment on the intended project
- Draft EIS Publication: Considers all public scoping comments
- Public Hearings/Meetings: A review period by interested parties to comment on the draft EIS
- Final EIS Publication: Incorporates and formally responds to all public comments received on the draft EIS and identifies the preferred alternative for implementation
- Record of Decision: Provides the public record of the agency’s decision, describes the public involvement and agency decision-making process, and presents the commitments to efforts to reduce impacts
Learn more at the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) website.