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Photo courtesy US Fish and Wildlife |
If you are preparing an environmental document for WSDOT, you are familiar with the term "cumulative effects". You also know there is a lack of agreement on how and when to evaluate such effects.
New guidance is now available to help you:
What kind of assistance can I find here?
WSDOT, FHWA-Washington Division and EPA Region 10 have agreed on an approach that will help you prepare an adequate analysis tailored to your specific project. This new guidance lays out a framework that is comprehensive and flexible. This guidance should be used in concert with the Environmental Procedures Manual. Chapter 412 gives additional information on both indirect and cumulative effects as well as reference to applicable laws, policy and technical guidance.
Why the focus on cumulative effects?
Cumulative effects analysis is the most misunderstood part of the environmental review process. Without clear guidance, we have experienced conflict with reviewing agencies that has delayed our projects. Indirect effects are also challenging, however they have a closer tie to the proposed project. If you need guidance on indirect effects, please check Chapter 412 of the Environmental Procedures manual.
What's next?
On May 21st, 2008, we will be working with writers and reviewers of NEPA cumulative effects documents to identify stumbling blocks not addressed in the guidance. Soon after that session, we will use the results to create a set of frequently asked questions for this webpage. Please let us know if you have questions you would like addressed.