ABSTRACT
Performing the EIS analysis Chapter 4 described the step-by-step procedural process for preparing and issuing an environmental impact statement (EIS). A thorough scientiƒc analysis of potential environmental impacts provides the foundation upon which a decision to pursue a given course of action will later be made. This chapter details four features essential to the goal of performing a rigorous and sufƒcient environmental impact assessment (EIA). It describes:
1. All pertinent requirements that must be followed in preparing the EIS analysis, including all applicable regulatory requirements cited in the National Environmental Policy Act implementing regulations1
2. A systematic, general purpose process for performing the EIA 3. Tools, techniques, and methods for performing an EIA 4. Leading methodologies used in performing EIAs
Special consideration is devoted to describing the affected environment and reasonable alternatives (Figure 5.1). Timely topics such as cumulative impact and greenhouse gas (GHG) assessments are likewise described in detail. This material sets the stage for Chapter 6, which describes all applicable EIS regulatory and document requirements (a.k.a. documentation requirements) that the draft and ƒnal EIS document must satisfy.
