Environmental Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
Scoping can also be enhanced through continuing activities following an initial
scoping meeting. Formation of a CAC and TAC as discussed above is an often-
used approach for progressive and proactive scoping. The committees meet at
critical junctions during the environmental impact analysis, such as screening
of alternatives, receiving results of existing condition investigations, evaluat-
ing impact prediction methodologies, assigning significance levels to predicted
impacts, and comparison of alternatives. At each juncture they provide input
and assistance in determining the next steps. This approach allows the stake-
holders to remain actively involved and understand the process, so when the
analysis is concluded they are not presented with a
fait accompli
but understand
all the steps, decisions, and compromises that went into the analysis. This often
leads to the CAC and TAC support of the proposed action, which can be impor-
tant unbiased input to the general public as they review the project. It can also
foster well-informed, objective, and rational input early in the environmental
evaluation process so that issues can be addressed, resolved, and incorporated
into decisions prior to issuance of the draft environmental analysis.
The AJ Mine EIS (see Section 10.3 for a description of the project and EIS)
relied heavily on a dynamic and continuous scoping process as part of the
environmental impact analysis. Not only was a TAC formed, there were sub-
topic TACs for each critical environmental resource. The seabird subtopic TAC
had concerns regarding the impact on seabirds, and particularly their food
source within the potential marine areas of mine tailings disposal. One alter-
native disposal area was approximately 15 km offshore and the ornithological
experts were not sure which species frequented the area. In order to accom-
modate their concern, the project proponent (mining company) and the lead
agency regulating the activity (U.S. EPA) arranged a trip to the area. When
the boat was on station, the experts had a field day identifying the birds and
their concerns were satisfied. In fact, they had an added benefit because many
of the birds were actively feeding, but the food source was not readily appar-
ent. The experts felt it was important to know what they were feeding on so
that the environmental impact analysis team could assess the impact on the
food source from the marine disposal of the mine tailings. Unfortunately, the
trip was organized for observation only and no equipment for collection of
biological specimens was on board. But one of the environmental team mem-
bers sacrificed her pantyhose, which were towed behind the boat and collected
specimens from the high population density of the euphausiids (shrimp-like
organisms) which was provoking the frenzied feeding behavior of the birds.
The event was an analysis team/TAC bonding experience that supported
inclusion of euphausiids in the impact prediction conceptual model.
4.3.3.3 ScopingStatement
The outcome of a scoping process is a scoping statement document made
available to the public, which is a guide instructing how the analysis will be
conducted. In theory, if an entirely new environmental impact analysis team
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