ABSTRACT
This chapter outlines the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process, providing brief descriptions of the technical elements that are considered in the evaluation process. NEPA review occurs prior to major project decision points like final design and construction so ways to avoid, minimize, or mitigate environmental impacts may be incorporated into the project as early as possible. NEPA requires that an environmental impact statement (EIS) be prepared to disclose impacts for major federal projects that can significantly affect the environment or will result in significant public concern. In the EIS, potential impacts are fully disclosed and alternative actions that may avoid, minimize, or mitigate the potential impacts are evaluated. The NEPA process is designed to involve the public and other stakeholders so that the current and useful information is available to the decision makers, and conflicts with stakeholders can be avoided.
