Dixie National Forest, UT; Tropic to Hatch 138kV Transmission Line Project, 9517-9521 [E8-3194]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 35 / Thursday, February 21, 2008 / Notices displays a currently valid OMB control number. Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Title: Potato Cyst Nematode; Quarantine and Regulations. OMB Control Number: 0579–0322. Summary of Collection: Under the Plant Protection Act (7 U.S.C. 7701– 7772), The Secretary of Agriculture is authorized to prohibit or restrict the importation, entry, or movement of plants and plant pests to prevent the introduction of plant pests into the United States or their dissemination within the United States. The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) amended the ‘‘Domestic Quarantine Notices’’ in 7 CFR Part 301 by adding a new subpart, ‘‘Potato Cyst Nematode (PCN).’’ PCN is a soil-borne pest and is typically spread by the movement of infested soil, either soil itself or soil adhering to plants, farm equipment, or other articles. Need and Use of the Information: APHIS will collect information using certificates or limited permits and compliance agreements to prevent the spread of PCN and to ensure that regulated articles can be moved safely from the quarantined area without spreading PCN. Description of Respondents: Farms; business or other for-profit. Number of Respondents: 400. Frequency of Responses: Reporting: On occasion. Total Burden Hours: 822. Ruth Brown, Departmental Information Collection Clearance Officer. [FR Doc. E8–3169 Filed 2–20–08; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3410–34–P DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request pwalker on PROD1PC71 with NOTICES February 14, 2007. The Department of Agriculture has submitted the following information collection requirement(s) to OMB for review and clearance under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, Public Law 104–13. Comments regarding (a) whether the collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the agency, including whether the information will have practical utility; (b) the accuracy of the agency’s estimate of burden including the validity of the methodology and assumptions used; (c) ways to enhance the quality, utility and clarity of the information to be VerDate Aug<31>2005 16:34 Feb 20, 2008 Jkt 214001 collected; (d) ways to minimize the burden of the collection of information on those who are to respond, including through the use of appropriate automated, electronic, mechanical, or other technological collection techniques or other forms of information technology should be addressed to: Desk Officer for Agriculture, Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, Office of Management and Budget (OMB), OIRA_Submission@OMB.EOP.GOV or fax (202) 395–5806 and to Departmental Clearance Office, USDA, OCIO, Mail Stop 7602, Washington, DC 20250– 7602. Comments regarding these information collections are best assured of having their full effect if received within 30 days of this notification. Copies of the submission(s) may be obtained by calling (202) 720–8958. An agency may not conduct or sponsor a collection of information unless the collection of information displays a currently valid OMB control number and the agency informs potential persons who are to respond to the collection of information that such persons are not required to respond to the collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number. Farm Service Agency Title: Request for Aerial Photography. OMB Control Number: 0560–0176. Summary of Collection: The Farm Service Agency (FSA) Aerial Photography Field Office (APFO) has the authority to coordinate aerial photography work in USDA, develop and carry out aerial photography and remote sensing programs and the Agency’s aerial photography flying contract programs. The film APFO secures is public domain and reproductions are available at cost to any customer with a need. The FSA– 441, Request for Aerial Imagery, is the form APFO supplies to its customers when placing an order for aerial photography products and services. Need and Use of the Information: FSA will collect the name, address, contact name, telephone, fax, e-mail, customer code, agency code, purchase order number, credit card number/exp. date and amount remitted/PO amount. Customers have the option of placing orders by mail, fax, telephone, walk-in or floppy disk. Furnishing this information requires the customer to research and prepare their request before submitting it to APFO. Description of Respondents: Farms; Individuals or household; business or other for-profit; Federal Government; PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 9517 State, Local or Tribal Government; notfor-profit institutions. Number of Respondents: 4,500. Frequency of Responses: Reporting; other (when ordering). Total Burden Hours: 3,100. Ruth Brown, Departmental Information Collection Clearance Officer. [FR Doc. E8–3170 Filed 2–20–08; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3410–05–P DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Forest Service Dixie National Forest, UT; Tropic to Hatch 138kV Transmission Line Project Forest Service, United States Department of Agriculture. ACTION: Notice of intent to prepare an environmental impact statement. AGENCY: SUMMARY: The Forest Supervisor of the Dixie National Forest gives notice of intent to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement to address potential effects of a proposed project by Garkane Energy Cooperative (Garkane) to construct, operate and maintain a 138 kilovolt (kV) electric transmission line requiring a Special Use Authorization, Grant of Right-of-Way, and/or Special Use Permit for a Right-of-Way. The proposed project will include the construction of a 138kV transmission line, associated substations, access roads and the removal and reclamation of a portion of the existing transmission line. The proposed action would cross lands administered by the Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, State and private. If approved, the proposed project would require amending the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument Management Plan to allow a utility right-of-way in the primitive management zone adjacent to an existing utility right-of-way. Dependant upon the final location of the transmission line alignment, the Dixie National Forest Plan may need amending to adjust or modify the scenic integrity objectives. The Dixie National Forest will serve as the lead agency. The National Park Service and the Bureau of Land Management Kanab Field Office and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument will participate as cooperating agencies, and each agency will issue separate decisions based on the analysis. The Utah State Institutional Trust Lands have been invited as a cooperating agency. DATES: Comments concerning the scope of the analysis should be received E:\FR\FM\21FEN1.SGM 21FEN1 pwalker on PROD1PC71 with NOTICES 9518 Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 35 / Thursday, February 21, 2008 / Notices within 30 days from date of publication of this notice in the Federal Register to be most useful. The Draft Environmental Impact Statement is scheduled for release in spring 2009, and the Final Environmental Impact Statement is scheduled for completion in summer 2009. ADDRESSES: Send written comments to Ms. Susan Baughman, Dixie National Forest, USDA Forest Service, Tropic to Hatch 138kV Transmission Line Project EIS Project Leader, 1789 N. Wedgewood Lane, Cedar City, UT 84720. Phone: (435) 865–3700; Fax: (435) 865–3791; E-mail: tropic_to_hatch_transmission_ line_eis_comments@fs.fed.us. E-mailed comments must be submitted in MS Word (*.doc) or rich text format (*.rtf) and should include the project name in the subject line. Written comments may also be submitted at the above address during regular business hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday-Friday. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ms. Susan Baughman, Tropic to Hatch 138kV Transmission Line Project, EIS Project Leader, Dixie National Forest (contact information listed above). SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Garkane delivers propane and electric service to more than 11,000 customers in northern Arizona and southern Utah including the project area. Growth in Garfield and Kane counties has increased electrical demand. Garkane, which owns, operates and maintains the electric delivery systems in this area, has found the existing system insufficient to meet electrical demand without the operation of temporary diesel generators. The proposed project involves the construction, operation and maintenance of a 138kV transmission line from Tropic to Hatch in Garfield County, Utah, and a new substation and expansion of the Hatch Substation to serve existing and planned electric loads in the region. Currently a 138kV transmission line provides connection from the Glen Canyon Dam to the Tropic area; however, only a 69kV transmission line provides connection between the Tropic and Hatch substations. The 69kV transmission system is Garkane’s main electrical supply to the area west of Tropic and is insufficent to provide power equal to the electrical demand in that area. The existing 69kV electrical transmission system is operating at its capacity and cannot be modified to carry higher voltages due to physical limitations of the pole structures. The proposed 138kV electrical system improvement would provide a cost-effective solution to adequately address current demands and provide capacity for the foreseeable VerDate Aug<31>2005 16:34 Feb 20, 2008 Jkt 214001 future. A special use authorization and right-of-way must be acquired or amended to allow the construction, maintenance and operation of the new transmission line. Substations would be developed on private land as part of the project. The new transmission line will be a single 138kV circuit supported by wood pole H-frame structures approximately 60 feet tall. The proposed project involves the construction of access roads in portions of the alignment where a suitable road is not available and where development of an access road is permitted by the authorizing agency. Access roads would be used for installation of wood transmission structures, conductors, and overhead ground wires, removal of poles and conductors, and for maintenance and inspection activities. In limited areas where vehicle access is not feasible due to topographical constraints and/or agency requirements, the alignment would be accessed via helicopter, mule, horse, all-terrain vehicle, and/or foot. In order to accomplish the planned activities, Garkane will require a 100 foot-wide permanent right-of-way. In addition, temporary use permits would be needed for several 125 by 400 foot pulling and splicing locations and turning structure locations, and for approximately eight 200 by 600 foot temporary staging locations. Project construction activities and overland access along the proposed project alignment will be conducted within the proposed 100 foot-wide right-of-way and the temporary use permit areas. The proposed 138kV transmission line would originate at a proposed East Valley Substation, located near Tropic, Utah and terminate at the existing Hatch Substation near Hatch, Utah, along U.S. Route 89 and would extend approximately 31 miles. The project would involve various private land owners as well as jurisdictions managed by the State of Utah; Dixie National Forest; and Bureau of Land Management’s Kanab Field Office and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Development of the proposed action would include the removal of the existing transmission line between the Bryce Canyon Substation and Hatch Mountain Switch Station through Red Canyon. One potential alternative would parallel an existing line through Bryce Canyon National Park. The Bureau of Land Management planning regulations (43 CFR 1600) require the preparation of planning criteria to guide the development of resource management plan amendments. Planning criteria ensure PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 that plans are tailored to the identified issues and ensure that unnecessary data collection and analysis are avoided. These general planning criteria will be used to develop a Grand StaircaseEscalante National Monument Management Plan amendment for the Tropic to Hatch 138kV Transmission Line Project. The planning criteria are as follows: • The plan amendment will only consider adding one new utility right-ofway in the primitive zone adjacent to an existing utility right-of-way. • It will be completed in compliance with the Federal Land Policy and Management Act and all other applicable laws. • It will meet the intent of the Proclamation that established Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument which protects objects of geological, paleontological, archaeological, biological, and historic values within the Monument. Pursuant to Section 102(2)(c) of the National Environmental Policy Act and 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq., the Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management and National Park Service will be directing a third-party contractor in the preparation of the Environmental Impact Statement on the impacts of the proposed action. Purpose and Need for Action Growth in Garfield and Kane counties has increased electrical demand. The growth in this area has resulted in a 66 percent increase in the electrical demand during the past five years. This has caused an overloading of the transmission lines and a decrease in the reliability of the electrical system. Garkane, which owns, operates and maintains the electric delivery systems in this area, has found the existing system insufficient to meet electrical demand without operation of temporary diesel generators. Currently a 138kV transmission line provides connection from the Glen Canyon Dam to the Tropic area, however only a 69kV transmission line provides connection between the Tropic and Hatch substations. The 69kV transmission system is Garkane’s main electrical supply to the area west of Tropic and is insufficient to provide power equal to the electrical demand in that area. The existing 69kV electrical transmission system is operating at its capacity and cannot be modified to carry higher voltages due to physical limitations of the pole structures. The proposed project is needed to bring this available energy from the Tropic area to the Hatch area where the electric demands are increasing. The proposed E:\FR\FM\21FEN1.SGM 21FEN1 Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 35 / Thursday, February 21, 2008 / Notices pwalker on PROD1PC71 with NOTICES electrical system improvement will provide a cost-effective solution to adequately address both current demands and provide capacity for the foreseeable future. A right-of-way must be acquired or amended to allow the construction, maintenance and operation of the new transmission line. Substations will be developed on private land as part of the project. Special use authorizations and rights-ofway are needed to allow Garkane to upgrade the current electrical service from Tropic to Hatch, Garfield County, Utah to meet current and future electrical demands. Proposed Action The Forest Supervisor of the Dixie National Forest and the Utah State Director of the Bureau of Land Management propose to conduct analysis and decide whether to grant the necessary Special Use Authorization and Right-of-Way permits to Garkane to construct, operate and maintain a 138kV transmission line and all associated features from Tropic to Hatch in Garfield County, Utah. The proposed project would require amending the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument Management Plan to allow a utility right-of-way in the primitive zone adjacent to an existing utility right-ofway. Dependant upon the final location of the transmission line alignment, the Dixie National Forest Plan may need to be amended to adjust or modify the scenic integrity objectives. The proposed corridor originates on private land at the proposed East Valley Substation and extends northeast following East Valley Road to an existing Rocky Mountain Power 230kV transmission line corridor. The project route then parallels the south side of the Rocky Mountain Power 230kV Transmission Line to the northwest through Cedar Fork Canyon. As the project route exits the Canyon on the Paunsaugunt Plateau, it diverges from the Rocky Mountain Power 230kV Transmission Line corridor and extends east across John’s Valley for approximately seven miles. At this point, the corridor turns south for approximately two miles crossing State Route 12 near the Bryce Canyon Pines Motel. The route then extends west through Johnson Bench until it intersects Forest Service Road 1150, and then parallels Forest Service Road 1150 to the head of the Hillsdale Canyon. The project route continues through a designated utility corridor west down the canyon to Forest Road 223 and turns north for approximately 0.5 mile. At this point, the project route leaves the road and extends due west across Long VerDate Aug<31>2005 16:34 Feb 20, 2008 Jkt 214001 Valley paralleling section lines, and eventually crossing U.S. Route 89 where it then turns to the southwest for approximately two miles to the Hatch Substation. The proposed line would cross approximately 15 miles of National Forest, 3.67 miles of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, 3.53 miles of Bureau of Land Management Kanab Field Office, 7.27 miles of State, and 1.76 miles of private lands. Legal description for the project route corridor is as follows: Sections 27–29, 31, 32, 34, and 35, T35S, R3W; sections 34–36, T35S, R4W; sections 7, 17, 18, 20, 28, 29, 32, and 33, T36S, R2W; sections 2, 11, and 12, T36S, R3W; sections 3, 4, and 7–9, T36S, R4W; sections 8, 9, and 11–16, T36S, R4.5W; and sections 11–16, and 21, T36S, R5W. The new transmission line will be a single 138kV circuit supported by wood pole H-frame structures approximately 60 feet tall. The proposed project involves the construction of access roads in portions of the alignment where a suitable road is not available and where development of an access road is permitted by the authorizing agency. Access roads would be used for installation of wood transmission structures, conductors, overhead ground wires, removal of poles and conductors, and for maintenance and inspection activities. In limited areas where vehicle access is not feasible due to topographical constraints and/or agency requirements, the alignment would be accessed via helicopter, mule, horse, allterrain vehicle, and/or foot. In order to accomplish the planned activities, Garkane will require a 100 foot-wide permanent right-of-way. In addition, temporary use permits will be needed for 125 by 400 foot areas at pulling and splicing locations at turning structures and for approximately eight 200 by 600 feet areas for temporary staging activities. Project construction activities and overland access along the proposed project alignment will be conducted within the proposed 100 foot-wide right-of-way and temporary use permit areas. Development of the proposed action would include the removal and reclamation of the existing transmission line between the Bryce Canyon Substation and the Hatch Mountain Switch Station through Red Canyon. Possible Alternatives All alternatives studied in detail must fall within the scope of the purpose and need for action and will generally tier to and comply with the Dixie National Forest Land and Resource Management Plan (1986), Grand Staircase Escalante PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 9519 National Mounment Management Plan (1999), Cedar, Beaver, Garfield, Antimony Resource Management Plan (1986), and if necessary the Bryce Canyon National Park General Management Plan (1987) and National Park Service Management Policies (2006). Law requires evaluation of a ‘‘no-action alternative.’’ A possible alternative would be to build the transmission line roughly parallel to the existing 69kV transmission line corridor. The current 69kV line would need to remain in place until such time as the upgraded line is energized. This alternative would originate at the proposed East Valley Substation and extend generally west though Tropic, Utah crossing State Route 12, continuing approximately three miles through Bryce Canyon National Park with 1.2 miles of new alignment onto the Paunsaugunt Plateau to the Bryce Substation near the Ruby’s Inn area. The route would then parallel the existing line across the Paunsaugunt Plateau in a northwest direction to Red Canyon where it would parallel the existing line through Red Canyon into Long Valley, cross U.S. Route 89 to the Hatch Mountain Switch Station. From the switch station, the route would parallel the existing line south to the Hatch Substation. This alternative would remove and reclaim the portion of the existing 69kV line between the Tropic Substation and Hatch Mountain Switch Station. The Tropic and Bryce substations would need to be expanded, and probably relocated. In limited areas where vehicle access is not feasible due to topographical constraints and/or agency requirements, the alignment would be accessed via helicopter, mule, horse, all-terrain vehicle, and/or foot. The legal description for the alternative corridor is as follows: Sections 31 and 32, T35S, R4W; sections 26–28, 30, 35, and 36, T35S, R4.5W; sections 25–27, 33, and 34, T35S, R5W; sections 31 and 32, T36S, R2W; sections 16–18, 21–23, 25, 26, and 36, T36S, R3W; sections 3–5, and 10–13, T36S, R4W; and sections 4, 9, 16, and 21, T36S, R5W. Additional alternatives may be developed based on scoping comments. Lead and Cooperating Agencies The Forest Service is the lead agency. The Bureau of Land Management and National Park Service will participate as cooperating agencies. The Utah State Institutional Trust Lands have been invited to be a cooperating agency. Responsible Officials Robert G. MacWhorter, Forest Supervisor, Dixie National Forest, 1789 E:\FR\FM\21FEN1.SGM 21FEN1 9520 Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 35 / Thursday, February 21, 2008 / Notices N. Wedgewood Lane, Cedar City, Utah 84720. Selma Sierra, Utah BLM State Director, P.O. Box 45155, Salt Lake City, Utah 84145–0155. Mike Snyder, Regional Director, National Park Service Regional Office, 12795 West Alameda Pkwy, P.O. Box 25287, Lakewood, Colorado 80225. pwalker on PROD1PC71 with NOTICES Nature of Decisions To Be Made The responsible officials will decide whether to adopt and implement the proposed action, an alternative to the proposed action, or take no action. The Forest Supervisor, Dixie National Forest will decide whether to issue a Special Use Authorization for the construction, operation and maintenance of a 138kV transmission line from Tropic to Hatch, Utah. The Forest Service may propose to amend the Forest Plan to adjust the scenic integrity objective if necessary depending on route alignment and impact analysis. The Bureau of Land Management State Director will decide whether approve an amendment to the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument Management Plan necessary to issue a right-of-way for the construction operation and maintenance of a 138kV transmission line from Tropic to Hatch, Utah. The National Park Service Regional Director would decide whether to issue a Special Use Permit for a right-of-way for the construction, operation and maintenance of a 138kV transmission line through Bryce Canyon National Park if an alternative through the park is selected. Scoping Process The first formal opportunity to comment on the Tropic to Hatch 138kV Transmission Line Project is during the scoping process (40 CFR 1501.7), which begins with the issuance of this Notice of Intent. Mail comments to: Ms. Susan Baughman, Dixie National Forest, 1789 N. Wedgewood Lane, Cedar City, Utah 84720. E-mail comments can be sent to: tropic_to_hatch_transmission_line_eis_ comment@fs.fed.us. Before including your address, phone number, e-mail address, or other personal identifying information in your comment, you should be aware that your entire comment, including your personal identifying information, may be made publicly available at any time. While you can ask us in your comment to withhold your personal identifying information from public review, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to do so. The Forest Service is inviting Federal, State and local agencies, the public, and VerDate Aug<31>2005 16:34 Feb 20, 2008 Jkt 214001 other interested parties to provide comments, suggestions and input regarding the nature and scope of the environmental, social and economic issues, and possible alternatives related to the Tropic to Hatch 138kV Transmission Line Project. The scoping process for this Environmental Impact Statement will include two public meetings for interested agencies and the public to submit written concerns and issues they believe should be addressed. Comments concerning the scope of the analysis should be received within 30 days from date of publication of this notice in the Federal Register to be most useful. A series of public opportunities are scheduled to describe the proposal and to provide an opportunity for public input. Two scoping meetings are planned: March 12, 2008: 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., Panquitch Library, 25 South 200 East, Panguitch, Utah 84759. March 13, 2008: 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., Cannonville Visitor Center, 10 Center Street, Cannonville, Utah 84718. Written comments will be accepted at these meetings. The Forest Service will work with tribal governments to address issues that would significantly or uniquely affect them. Preliminary Issues Issues that may be analyzed in all alternatives include: Effects on flora and fauna (e.g., threatened and endangered species, sensitive species, and management indicator species); effects on scenic and visual resources; effects on cultural and paleontological resources; effects on upland vegetation; effects on Forest Service inventoried roadless areas and Grand StaircaseEscalante National Monument primitive management zones; and effects on noxious weeds and invasive species. Specific issues will be developed through review of public comments and internal review. Permits or Licenses Required It is assumed applications will be filed with affected agencies as necessary. Currently, alternative corridors cross lands managed by the Forest Service, National Park Service, and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. The entitlements required from each Federal agency are: • Forest Service—Special Use Authorization • Bureau of Land Management— Grant of Right-of-Way • Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument—Grant of Right-of-Way • National Park Service—Special Use Permit for a Right-of-Way, if applicable. PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 Comment Requested This Notice of Intent initiates the scoping process which guides the development of the environmental impact statement. Consequently sitespecific comments or concerns that are tied directly to the proposed action are the most important types of information needed for this Environmental Impact Statement. Early Notice of Importance of Public Participation in Subsequent Environmental Review A draft environmental impact statement will be prepared for comment. The comment period on the draft environmental impact statement will be at least 45 days from the date the Environmental Protection Agency publishes the Notice of Availability in the Federal Register. If a Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument Management Plan amendment is required, the comment period would be 90 days. The Forest Service believes, at this early stage, it is important to give reviewers notice of several court rulings related to public participation in the environmental review process. First, reviewers of draft environmental impact statements must structure their participation in the environmental review of the proposal so that it is meaningful and alerts an agency to the reviewer’s position and contentions. Vermont Yankee Nuclear Power Corp. v. NRDC, 435 U.S. 519, 553 [1978]. Also, environmental objections that could be raised at the draft environmental impact statement stage, but that are not raised until after completion of the final environmental impact statement may be waived or dismissed by the courts. City of Angoon v. Hodel, 803 F.2d 1016, 1022 [9th Cir. 1986] and Wisconsin Heritages, Inc. v. Harris, 490 F. Supp. 1334, 1338 [E.D. Wis. 1980]. Because of these court rulings, it is very important that those interested in this proposed action participate by the close of the 45 day comment period so that substantive comments and objections are made available to the Forest Service at a time when it can meaningfully consider them and respond to them in the final Environmental Impact Statement. To assist the Forest Service in identifying and considering issues and concerns on the proposed action, comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement should be as specific as possible. It is also helpful if comments refer to specific pages or chapters of the draft statement. Comments may also address the adequacy of the Draft Environmental E:\FR\FM\21FEN1.SGM 21FEN1 Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 35 / Thursday, February 21, 2008 / Notices Impact Statement or the merits of the alternatives formulated and discussed in the statement. Reviewers may wish to refer to the Council on Environmental Quality Regulations for implementing the procedural provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act at 40 CFR 1503.3 in addressing these points. Comments received, including the names and addresses of those who comment, will be considered part of the public record on this proposal and will be available for public inspection. Authority: 40 CFR 1501.7 and 1508.22; Forest Service Handbook 1909.15, Section 21. Dated: February 14, 2008. Robert G. MacWhorter, Forest Supervisor. [FR Doc. E8–3194 Filed 2–20–08; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3410–11–P Dated: February 14, 2008. Gwellnar Banks, Management Analyst, Office of the Chief Information Officer. [FR Doc. E8–3158 Filed 2–20–08; 8:45 am] DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE pwalker on PROD1PC71 with NOTICES Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request BILLING CODE 3510–BP–P The Department of Commerce will submit to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for clearance the following proposal for collection of information under the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act (44 U.S.C. Chapter 35). Agency: Office of the Secretary, Office of Civil Rights. Title: Complaint of Employment Discrimination Based on Sexual Orientation against the Department of Commerce. OMB Control Number: None. Form Number(s): CD–545. Type of Request: Regular submission. Burden Hours: 10. Number of Respondents: 20. Average Hours Per Response: 30 minutes. Needs and Use: Pursuant to Executive Order 11478 and Department of Commerce Administrative Order (DAO) 215–11, an employee or applicant for employment with the Department of Commerce who alleges that he or she has been subjected to discriminatory treatment based on sexual orientation by the Department of Commerce or one of its sub-agencies, must submit a signed statement that is sufficiently precise to identify the actions or practices that form the basis of the complaint. Through use of this standardized form, the Office of Civil Rights proposes to collect the information required by the Executive Order and DAO in a uniform manner that will increase the efficiency of complaint processing and trend analyses of complaint activity. VerDate Aug<31>2005 16:34 Feb 20, 2008 Jkt 214001 Affected Public: Individuals or households. Frequency: On occasion. Respondent’s Obligation: Voluntary. OMB Desk Officer: David Rostker (202) 395–3897. Copies of the above information collection proposal can be obtained by calling or writing Diana Hynek, Departmental Paperwork Clearance Officer, (202) 482–0266, Department of Commerce, Room 6625, 14th and Constitution Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20230 (or via e-mail at dHynek@doc.gov). Written comments and recommendations for the proposed information collection should be sent to David Rostker, OMB Desk Officer, fax number (202) 395–7258 or via e-mail at David_Rostker@omb.eop.gov. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE Census Bureau Proposed Information Collection; Comment Request; Field Representatives/Enumerators Exit Questionnaire U.S. Census Bureau, Commerce. ACTION: Notice. AGENCY: SUMMARY: The Department of Commerce, as part of its continuing effort to reduce paperwork and respondent burden, invites the general public and other Federal agencies to take this opportunity to comment on proposed and/or continuing information collections, as required by the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, Public Law 104–13 (44 U.S.C. 3506(c)(2)(A)). To ensure consideration, written comments must be submitted on or before April 21, 2008. ADDRESSES: Direct all written comments to Diana Hynek, Departmental Paperwork Clearance Officer, Department of Commerce, Room 6625, 14th and Constitution Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20230 (or via the Internet at dHynek@doc.gov). FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Requests for additional information or copies of the information collection instrument(s) and instructions should be directed to Darlene Moul, Census DATES: PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 9521 Bureau/Field Division, Room 5H051, Washington, DC 20233, or 301–763– 1935, or via the Internet at darlene.a.moul@census.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: I. Abstract In a continuous effort to devise policies and practices aimed at reducing turnover among interviewers, the Census Bureau collects data on the reasons interviewers voluntarily quit their jobs with the Census Bureau. The exit questionnaires, BC–1294 and BC– 1294(D), are the instruments used to collect this data from a sample of former current survey interviewers (field representatives) and decennial census interviewers (enumerators/listers), respectively. Both forms ask questions about the factors that affected an interviewer’s decision to voluntarily leave Census Bureau employment. Since the nature of census enumerator work differs from current survey interviewing, we created two questionnaires that are tailored to the operational differences. While the forms cover the same topics, the questions and response choices on the BC–1294 and BC–1294(D) reflect the differences in the current survey and decennial interviewing operations. Because of both the monetary cost associated with turnover and the potential impact on data quality, the retention of trained field interviewing staff is a major concern for the Census Bureau. Consequently the goal or purpose of the exit questionnaires is to identify the reasons for interviewer turnover and determine what the Census Bureau might have done, or can do, to influence interviewers not to leave. Therefore, the exit questionnaire seeks reasons interviewers quit, inquires about motivational factors that would have kept the interviewers from leaving, identifies training program strengths and areas for improvement, and explores the impact of automation and the influence of pay and other working conditions on turnover. The information provided by respondents to the exit questionnaire provides insight on the measures the Census Bureau might take to decrease turnover, and is useful in helping to determine if the reasons for interviewer turnover appear to be systemic or localized. To accomplish the goal of reducing interviewer turnover, Census Bureau planners and decision makers must fully understand the relative importance and interaction of possible contributory factors. From both the BC–1294 and BC– 1294(D), we have learned that the causes of interviewer turnover are often E:\FR\FM\21FEN1.SGM 21FEN1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 73, Number 35 (Thursday, February 21, 2008)]
[Notices]
[Pages 9517-9521]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E8-3194]


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DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

Forest Service


Dixie National Forest, UT; Tropic to Hatch 138kV Transmission 
Line Project

AGENCY: Forest Service, United States Department of Agriculture.

ACTION: Notice of intent to prepare an environmental impact statement.

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SUMMARY: The Forest Supervisor of the Dixie National Forest gives 
notice of intent to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement to 
address potential effects of a proposed project by Garkane Energy 
Cooperative (Garkane) to construct, operate and maintain a 138 kilovolt 
(kV) electric transmission line requiring a Special Use Authorization, 
Grant of Right-of-Way, and/or Special Use Permit for a Right-of-Way. 
The proposed project will include the construction of a 138kV 
transmission line, associated substations, access roads and the removal 
and reclamation of a portion of the existing transmission line. The 
proposed action would cross lands administered by the Forest Service, 
Bureau of Land Management, State and private. If approved, the proposed 
project would require amending the Grand Staircase-Escalante National 
Monument Management Plan to allow a utility right-of-way in the 
primitive management zone adjacent to an existing utility right-of-way.
    Dependant upon the final location of the transmission line 
alignment, the Dixie National Forest Plan may need amending to adjust 
or modify the scenic integrity objectives. The Dixie National Forest 
will serve as the lead agency. The National Park Service and the Bureau 
of Land Management Kanab Field Office and Grand Staircase-Escalante 
National Monument will participate as cooperating agencies, and each 
agency will issue separate decisions based on the analysis. The Utah 
State Institutional Trust Lands have been invited as a cooperating 
agency.

DATES: Comments concerning the scope of the analysis should be received

[[Page 9518]]

within 30 days from date of publication of this notice in the Federal 
Register to be most useful. The Draft Environmental Impact Statement is 
scheduled for release in spring 2009, and the Final Environmental 
Impact Statement is scheduled for completion in summer 2009.

ADDRESSES: Send written comments to Ms. Susan Baughman, Dixie National 
Forest, USDA Forest Service, Tropic to Hatch 138kV Transmission Line 
Project EIS Project Leader, 1789 N. Wedgewood Lane, Cedar City, UT 
84720. Phone: (435) 865-3700; Fax: (435) 865-3791; E-mail: tropic_to_
hatch_transmission_line_eis_comments@fs.fed.us. E-mailed comments 
must be submitted in MS Word (*.doc) or rich text format (*.rtf) and 
should include the project name in the subject line. Written comments 
may also be submitted at the above address during regular business 
hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday-Friday.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ms. Susan Baughman, Tropic to Hatch 
138kV Transmission Line Project, EIS Project Leader, Dixie National 
Forest (contact information listed above).

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Garkane delivers propane and electric 
service to more than 11,000 customers in northern Arizona and southern 
Utah including the project area. Growth in Garfield and Kane counties 
has increased electrical demand. Garkane, which owns, operates and 
maintains the electric delivery systems in this area, has found the 
existing system insufficient to meet electrical demand without the 
operation of temporary diesel generators. The proposed project involves 
the construction, operation and maintenance of a 138kV transmission 
line from Tropic to Hatch in Garfield County, Utah, and a new 
substation and expansion of the Hatch Substation to serve existing and 
planned electric loads in the region. Currently a 138kV transmission 
line provides connection from the Glen Canyon Dam to the Tropic area; 
however, only a 69kV transmission line provides connection between the 
Tropic and Hatch substations. The 69kV transmission system is Garkane's 
main electrical supply to the area west of Tropic and is insufficent to 
provide power equal to the electrical demand in that area. The existing 
69kV electrical transmission system is operating at its capacity and 
cannot be modified to carry higher voltages due to physical limitations 
of the pole structures. The proposed 138kV electrical system 
improvement would provide a cost-effective solution to adequately 
address current demands and provide capacity for the foreseeable 
future. A special use authorization and right-of-way must be acquired 
or amended to allow the construction, maintenance and operation of the 
new transmission line. Substations would be developed on private land 
as part of the project.
    The new transmission line will be a single 138kV circuit supported 
by wood pole H-frame structures approximately 60 feet tall. The 
proposed project involves the construction of access roads in portions 
of the alignment where a suitable road is not available and where 
development of an access road is permitted by the authorizing agency. 
Access roads would be used for installation of wood transmission 
structures, conductors, and overhead ground wires, removal of poles and 
conductors, and for maintenance and inspection activities. In limited 
areas where vehicle access is not feasible due to topographical 
constraints and/or agency requirements, the alignment would be accessed 
via helicopter, mule, horse, all-terrain vehicle, and/or foot. In order 
to accomplish the planned activities, Garkane will require a 100 foot-
wide permanent right-of-way. In addition, temporary use permits would 
be needed for several 125 by 400 foot pulling and splicing locations 
and turning structure locations, and for approximately eight 200 by 600 
foot temporary staging locations. Project construction activities and 
overland access along the proposed project alignment will be conducted 
within the proposed 100 foot-wide right-of-way and the temporary use 
permit areas.
    The proposed 138kV transmission line would originate at a proposed 
East Valley Substation, located near Tropic, Utah and terminate at the 
existing Hatch Substation near Hatch, Utah, along U.S. Route 89 and 
would extend approximately 31 miles. The project would involve various 
private land owners as well as jurisdictions managed by the State of 
Utah; Dixie National Forest; and Bureau of Land Management's Kanab 
Field Office and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. 
Development of the proposed action would include the removal of the 
existing transmission line between the Bryce Canyon Substation and 
Hatch Mountain Switch Station through Red Canyon. One potential 
alternative would parallel an existing line through Bryce Canyon 
National Park.
    The Bureau of Land Management planning regulations (43 CFR 1600) 
require the preparation of planning criteria to guide the development 
of resource management plan amendments. Planning criteria ensure that 
plans are tailored to the identified issues and ensure that unnecessary 
data collection and analysis are avoided.
    These general planning criteria will be used to develop a Grand 
Staircase-Escalante National Monument Management Plan amendment for the 
Tropic to Hatch 138kV Transmission Line Project. The planning criteria 
are as follows:
     The plan amendment will only consider adding one new 
utility right-of-way in the primitive zone adjacent to an existing 
utility right-of-way.
     It will be completed in compliance with the Federal Land 
Policy and Management Act and all other applicable laws.
     It will meet the intent of the Proclamation that 
established Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument which protects 
objects of geological, paleontological, archaeological, biological, and 
historic values within the Monument.
    Pursuant to Section 102(2)(c) of the National Environmental Policy 
Act and 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq., the Forest Service, Bureau of Land 
Management and National Park Service will be directing a third-party 
contractor in the preparation of the Environmental Impact Statement on 
the impacts of the proposed action.

Purpose and Need for Action

    Growth in Garfield and Kane counties has increased electrical 
demand. The growth in this area has resulted in a 66 percent increase 
in the electrical demand during the past five years. This has caused an 
overloading of the transmission lines and a decrease in the reliability 
of the electrical system. Garkane, which owns, operates and maintains 
the electric delivery systems in this area, has found the existing 
system insufficient to meet electrical demand without operation of 
temporary diesel generators.
    Currently a 138kV transmission line provides connection from the 
Glen Canyon Dam to the Tropic area, however only a 69kV transmission 
line provides connection between the Tropic and Hatch substations. The 
69kV transmission system is Garkane's main electrical supply to the 
area west of Tropic and is insufficient to provide power equal to the 
electrical demand in that area. The existing 69kV electrical 
transmission system is operating at its capacity and cannot be modified 
to carry higher voltages due to physical limitations of the pole 
structures. The proposed project is needed to bring this available 
energy from the Tropic area to the Hatch area where the electric 
demands are increasing. The proposed

[[Page 9519]]

electrical system improvement will provide a cost-effective solution to 
adequately address both current demands and provide capacity for the 
foreseeable future. A right-of-way must be acquired or amended to allow 
the construction, maintenance and operation of the new transmission 
line. Substations will be developed on private land as part of the 
project. Special use authorizations and rights-of-way are needed to 
allow Garkane to upgrade the current electrical service from Tropic to 
Hatch, Garfield County, Utah to meet current and future electrical 
demands.

Proposed Action

    The Forest Supervisor of the Dixie National Forest and the Utah 
State Director of the Bureau of Land Management propose to conduct 
analysis and decide whether to grant the necessary Special Use 
Authorization and Right-of-Way permits to Garkane to construct, operate 
and maintain a 138kV transmission line and all associated features from 
Tropic to Hatch in Garfield County, Utah. The proposed project would 
require amending the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument 
Management Plan to allow a utility right-of-way in the primitive zone 
adjacent to an existing utility right-of-way. Dependant upon the final 
location of the transmission line alignment, the Dixie National Forest 
Plan may need to be amended to adjust or modify the scenic integrity 
objectives.
    The proposed corridor originates on private land at the proposed 
East Valley Substation and extends northeast following East Valley Road 
to an existing Rocky Mountain Power 230kV transmission line corridor. 
The project route then parallels the south side of the Rocky Mountain 
Power 230kV Transmission Line to the northwest through Cedar Fork 
Canyon. As the project route exits the Canyon on the Paunsaugunt 
Plateau, it diverges from the Rocky Mountain Power 230kV Transmission 
Line corridor and extends east across John's Valley for approximately 
seven miles. At this point, the corridor turns south for approximately 
two miles crossing State Route 12 near the Bryce Canyon Pines Motel. 
The route then extends west through Johnson Bench until it intersects 
Forest Service Road 1150, and then parallels Forest Service Road 1150 
to the head of the Hillsdale Canyon. The project route continues 
through a designated utility corridor west down the canyon to Forest 
Road 223 and turns north for approximately 0.5 mile. At this point, the 
project route leaves the road and extends due west across Long Valley 
paralleling section lines, and eventually crossing U.S. Route 89 where 
it then turns to the southwest for approximately two miles to the Hatch 
Substation. The proposed line would cross approximately 15 miles of 
National Forest, 3.67 miles of Grand Staircase-Escalante National 
Monument, 3.53 miles of Bureau of Land Management Kanab Field Office, 
7.27 miles of State, and 1.76 miles of private lands.
    Legal description for the project route corridor is as follows: 
Sections 27-29, 31, 32, 34, and 35, T35S, R3W; sections 34-36, T35S, 
R4W; sections 7, 17, 18, 20, 28, 29, 32, and 33, T36S, R2W; sections 2, 
11, and 12, T36S, R3W; sections 3, 4, and 7-9, T36S, R4W; sections 8, 
9, and 11-16, T36S, R4.5W; and sections 11-16, and 21, T36S, R5W.
    The new transmission line will be a single 138kV circuit supported 
by wood pole H-frame structures approximately 60 feet tall. The 
proposed project involves the construction of access roads in portions 
of the alignment where a suitable road is not available and where 
development of an access road is permitted by the authorizing agency. 
Access roads would be used for installation of wood transmission 
structures, conductors, overhead ground wires, removal of poles and 
conductors, and for maintenance and inspection activities. In limited 
areas where vehicle access is not feasible due to topographical 
constraints and/or agency requirements, the alignment would be accessed 
via helicopter, mule, horse, all-terrain vehicle, and/or foot. In order 
to accomplish the planned activities, Garkane will require a 100 foot-
wide permanent right-of-way. In addition, temporary use permits will be 
needed for 125 by 400 foot areas at pulling and splicing locations at 
turning structures and for approximately eight 200 by 600 feet areas 
for temporary staging activities. Project construction activities and 
overland access along the proposed project alignment will be conducted 
within the proposed 100 foot-wide right-of-way and temporary use permit 
areas.
    Development of the proposed action would include the removal and 
reclamation of the existing transmission line between the Bryce Canyon 
Substation and the Hatch Mountain Switch Station through Red Canyon.

Possible Alternatives

    All alternatives studied in detail must fall within the scope of 
the purpose and need for action and will generally tier to and comply 
with the Dixie National Forest Land and Resource Management Plan 
(1986), Grand Staircase Escalante National Mounment Management Plan 
(1999), Cedar, Beaver, Garfield, Antimony Resource Management Plan 
(1986), and if necessary the Bryce Canyon National Park General 
Management Plan (1987) and National Park Service Management Policies 
(2006). Law requires evaluation of a ``no-action alternative.''
    A possible alternative would be to build the transmission line 
roughly parallel to the existing 69kV transmission line corridor. The 
current 69kV line would need to remain in place until such time as the 
upgraded line is energized. This alternative would originate at the 
proposed East Valley Substation and extend generally west though 
Tropic, Utah crossing State Route 12, continuing approximately three 
miles through Bryce Canyon National Park with 1.2 miles of new 
alignment onto the Paunsaugunt Plateau to the Bryce Substation near the 
Ruby's Inn area. The route would then parallel the existing line across 
the Paunsaugunt Plateau in a northwest direction to Red Canyon where it 
would parallel the existing line through Red Canyon into Long Valley, 
cross U.S. Route 89 to the Hatch Mountain Switch Station. From the 
switch station, the route would parallel the existing line south to the 
Hatch Substation. This alternative would remove and reclaim the portion 
of the existing 69kV line between the Tropic Substation and Hatch 
Mountain Switch Station. The Tropic and Bryce substations would need to 
be expanded, and probably relocated. In limited areas where vehicle 
access is not feasible due to topographical constraints and/or agency 
requirements, the alignment would be accessed via helicopter, mule, 
horse, all-terrain vehicle, and/or foot.
    The legal description for the alternative corridor is as follows: 
Sections 31 and 32, T35S, R4W; sections 26-28, 30, 35, and 36, T35S, 
R4.5W; sections 25-27, 33, and 34, T35S, R5W; sections 31 and 32, T36S, 
R2W; sections 16-18, 21-23, 25, 26, and 36, T36S, R3W; sections 3-5, 
and 10-13, T36S, R4W; and sections 4, 9, 16, and 21, T36S, R5W. 
Additional alternatives may be developed based on scoping comments.

Lead and Cooperating Agencies

    The Forest Service is the lead agency. The Bureau of Land 
Management and National Park Service will participate as cooperating 
agencies. The Utah State Institutional Trust Lands have been invited to 
be a cooperating agency.

Responsible Officials

    Robert G. MacWhorter, Forest Supervisor, Dixie National Forest, 
1789

[[Page 9520]]

N. Wedgewood Lane, Cedar City, Utah 84720.
    Selma Sierra, Utah BLM State Director, P.O. Box 45155, Salt Lake 
City, Utah 84145-0155.
    Mike Snyder, Regional Director, National Park Service Regional 
Office, 12795 West Alameda Pkwy, P.O. Box 25287, Lakewood, Colorado 
80225.

Nature of Decisions To Be Made

    The responsible officials will decide whether to adopt and 
implement the proposed action, an alternative to the proposed action, 
or take no action.
    The Forest Supervisor, Dixie National Forest will decide whether to 
issue a Special Use Authorization for the construction, operation and 
maintenance of a 138kV transmission line from Tropic to Hatch, Utah. 
The Forest Service may propose to amend the Forest Plan to adjust the 
scenic integrity objective if necessary depending on route alignment 
and impact analysis. The Bureau of Land Management State Director will 
decide whether approve an amendment to the Grand Staircase-Escalante 
National Monument Management Plan necessary to issue a right-of-way for 
the construction operation and maintenance of a 138kV transmission line 
from Tropic to Hatch, Utah.
    The National Park Service Regional Director would decide whether to 
issue a Special Use Permit for a right-of-way for the construction, 
operation and maintenance of a 138kV transmission line through Bryce 
Canyon National Park if an alternative through the park is selected.

Scoping Process

    The first formal opportunity to comment on the Tropic to Hatch 
138kV Transmission Line Project is during the scoping process (40 CFR 
1501.7), which begins with the issuance of this Notice of Intent. Mail 
comments to: Ms. Susan Baughman, Dixie National Forest, 1789 N. 
Wedgewood Lane, Cedar City, Utah 84720. E-mail comments can be sent to: 
tropic_to_hatch_transmission_line_eis_comment@fs.fed.us.
    Before including your address, phone number, e-mail address, or 
other personal identifying information in your comment, you should be 
aware that your entire comment, including your personal identifying 
information, may be made publicly available at any time. While you can 
ask us in your comment to withhold your personal identifying 
information from public review, we cannot guarantee that we will be 
able to do so.
    The Forest Service is inviting Federal, State and local agencies, 
the public, and other interested parties to provide comments, 
suggestions and input regarding the nature and scope of the 
environmental, social and economic issues, and possible alternatives 
related to the Tropic to Hatch 138kV Transmission Line Project. The 
scoping process for this Environmental Impact Statement will include 
two public meetings for interested agencies and the public to submit 
written concerns and issues they believe should be addressed. Comments 
concerning the scope of the analysis should be received within 30 days 
from date of publication of this notice in the Federal Register to be 
most useful.
    A series of public opportunities are scheduled to describe the 
proposal and to provide an opportunity for public input. Two scoping 
meetings are planned:
    March 12, 2008: 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., Panquitch Library, 25 South 200 
East, Panguitch, Utah 84759.
    March 13, 2008: 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., Cannonville Visitor Center, 10 
Center Street, Cannonville, Utah 84718.
    Written comments will be accepted at these meetings. The Forest 
Service will work with tribal governments to address issues that would 
significantly or uniquely affect them.

Preliminary Issues

    Issues that may be analyzed in all alternatives include: Effects on 
flora and fauna (e.g., threatened and endangered species, sensitive 
species, and management indicator species); effects on scenic and 
visual resources; effects on cultural and paleontological resources; 
effects on upland vegetation; effects on Forest Service inventoried 
roadless areas and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument 
primitive management zones; and effects on noxious weeds and invasive 
species. Specific issues will be developed through review of public 
comments and internal review.

Permits or Licenses Required

    It is assumed applications will be filed with affected agencies as 
necessary. Currently, alternative corridors cross lands managed by the 
Forest Service, National Park Service, and Grand Staircase-Escalante 
National Monument. The entitlements required from each Federal agency 
are:
     Forest Service--Special Use Authorization
     Bureau of Land Management--Grant of Right-of-Way
     Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument--Grant of 
Right-of-Way
     National Park Service--Special Use Permit for a Right-of-
Way, if applicable.

Comment Requested

    This Notice of Intent initiates the scoping process which guides 
the development of the environmental impact statement. Consequently 
site-specific comments or concerns that are tied directly to the 
proposed action are the most important types of information needed for 
this Environmental Impact Statement.

Early Notice of Importance of Public Participation in Subsequent 
Environmental Review

    A draft environmental impact statement will be prepared for 
comment. The comment period on the draft environmental impact statement 
will be at least 45 days from the date the Environmental Protection 
Agency publishes the Notice of Availability in the Federal Register. If 
a Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument Management Plan amendment 
is required, the comment period would be 90 days.
    The Forest Service believes, at this early stage, it is important 
to give reviewers notice of several court rulings related to public 
participation in the environmental review process. First, reviewers of 
draft environmental impact statements must structure their 
participation in the environmental review of the proposal so that it is 
meaningful and alerts an agency to the reviewer's position and 
contentions. Vermont Yankee Nuclear Power Corp. v. NRDC, 435 U.S. 519, 
553 [1978]. Also, environmental objections that could be raised at the 
draft environmental impact statement stage, but that are not raised 
until after completion of the final environmental impact statement may 
be waived or dismissed by the courts. City of Angoon v. Hodel, 803 F.2d 
1016, 1022 [9th Cir. 1986] and Wisconsin Heritages, Inc. v. Harris, 490 
F. Supp. 1334, 1338 [E.D. Wis. 1980]. Because of these court rulings, 
it is very important that those interested in this proposed action 
participate by the close of the 45 day comment period so that 
substantive comments and objections are made available to the Forest 
Service at a time when it can meaningfully consider them and respond to 
them in the final Environmental Impact Statement.
    To assist the Forest Service in identifying and considering issues 
and concerns on the proposed action, comments on the Draft 
Environmental Impact Statement should be as specific as possible. It is 
also helpful if comments refer to specific pages or chapters of the 
draft statement. Comments may also address the adequacy of the Draft 
Environmental

[[Page 9521]]

Impact Statement or the merits of the alternatives formulated and 
discussed in the statement. Reviewers may wish to refer to the Council 
on Environmental Quality Regulations for implementing the procedural 
provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act at 40 CFR 1503.3 in 
addressing these points.
    Comments received, including the names and addresses of those who 
comment, will be considered part of the public record on this proposal 
and will be available for public inspection.

    Authority: 40 CFR 1501.7 and 1508.22; Forest Service Handbook 
1909.15, Section 21.

    Dated: February 14, 2008.
Robert G. MacWhorter,
Forest Supervisor.
[FR Doc. E8-3194 Filed 2-20-08; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3410-11-P
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