Legal Definitions - environmental-impact statement

An Environmental-Impact Statement (EIS) is a comprehensive report required by U.S. federal law, specifically the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). A federal agency must prepare an EIS when it proposes a major action or project that could significantly affect the quality of the human environment. The purpose of this document is to thoroughly analyze and disclose the potential positive and negative environmental consequences of the proposed undertaking, allowing for informed decision-making by the agency and public input. It considers alternatives to the proposed action and identifies ways to mitigate adverse impacts.

Here are some examples of when an Environmental-Impact Statement would be required:

• Example 1: Major Infrastructure Development

  The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers proposes to construct a new flood control dam and reservoir system on a major river that flows through several states. This project would involve altering the river's course, flooding large tracts of land, and potentially affecting downstream ecosystems and local communities.

  How this illustrates the term: Building a large dam is a significant federal undertaking with the potential for substantial environmental impacts, such as changes to water flow, habitat destruction, and displacement of wildlife. An EIS would be mandatory to study these effects, explore alternative designs or locations, and outline measures to reduce harm before the project can proceed.

• Example 2: Federal Land Management Plan

  The U.S. Forest Service develops a new long-term management plan for a vast national forest, outlining activities like timber harvesting, new recreational trail development, and designating areas for wilderness protection. This plan would guide resource use and conservation efforts for decades.

  How this illustrates the term: A comprehensive management plan for federal lands is considered a major federal action. An EIS would be required to assess the environmental consequences of different management strategies on biodiversity, water quality, soil erosion, air quality, and recreational opportunities, ensuring that the Forest Service makes an informed decision that balances various interests.

• Example 3: Energy Project Permitting

  The Department of Energy proposes to issue permits for the construction and operation of a large-scale solar power facility on federal land in a desert region. The facility would cover thousands of acres and require new transmission lines.

  How this illustrates the term: Permitting a large energy project on federal land is a significant federal action. An EIS would be necessary to evaluate the potential impacts of the solar facility on desert ecosystems, including sensitive species, water resources, visual aesthetics, and cultural sites, as well as the environmental benefits of renewable energy, to guide the permitting decision.