Southern Natural Gas Company; Supplemental Notice of Intent To Prepare An Environmental Assessment for the South System Expansion III Project and Request for Comments On Environmental Issues, 47149-47151 [E8-18727]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 157 / Wednesday, August 13, 2008 / Notices 385.210, .211, .214. In determining the appropriate action to take, the Commission will consider all protests and other comments filed, but only those who file a motion to intervene in accordance with the Commission’s Rules may become a party to the proceeding. Any comments, protests, or motions to intervene must be received on or before the specified comment date for the particular application. All filings must (1) Bear in all capital letters the title ‘‘PROTEST,’’ ‘‘MOTION TO INTERVENE,’’ ‘‘COMMENTS,’’ ‘‘REPLY COMMENTS,’’ ‘‘RECOMMENDATIONS,’’ ‘‘PRELIMINARY TERMS AND CONDITIONS,’’ or ‘‘PRELIMINARY FISHWAY PRESCRIPTIONS’’; (2) set forth in the heading the name of the applicant and the project number of the application to which the filing responds; (3) furnish the name, address, and telephone number of the person protesting or intervening; and (4) otherwise comply with the requirements of 18 CFR 385.2001 through 385.2005. Agencies may obtain copies of the application directly from the applicant. A copy of any protest or motion to intervene must be served upon each representative of the applicant specified in the particular application. o. Procedural Schedule: The application will be processed according to the following Hydro Licensing Schedule. Revisions to the schedule may be made as appropriate. Milestone Filing of recommendations, preliminary terms and conditions, and fishway prescriptions. Commission issues Draft EIS. Comments on Draft EIS .... Modified Terms and Conditions. Commission Issues Final EIS. Target date October 2008. January 2009. March 2009. May 2009. August 2009. p. Final amendments to the application must be filed with the Commission no later than 30 days from the issuance date of this notice. ebenthall on PRODPC60 with NOTICES Kimberly D. Bose, Secretary. [FR Doc. E8–18733 Filed 8–12–08; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6717–01–P VerDate Aug<31>2005 15:38 Aug 12, 2008 Jkt 214001 DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Federal Energy Regulatory Commission [Docket No. PF08–13–000] Southern Natural Gas Company; Supplemental Notice of Intent To Prepare An Environmental Assessment for the South System Expansion III Project and Request for Comments On Environmental Issues August 7, 2008. The staff of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC or Commission) issued on May 16, 2008, a Notice of Intent to Prepare an Environmental Assessment (NOI) 1 for the related natural gas pipeline projects proposed by Southern Natural Gas Company (SNG) for the South System Expansion III Project (SSEIII Project), Docket No. PF08–13–000; and by Southeast Supply Header, LLC (SESH) for the Joint Pipeline Expansion Phase II Project (JPE Phase II Project), Docket No. PF08–16–000. In documents filed July 31, 2008, SNG informed that it has modified the SSEIII Project by adding additional pipeline facilities in four areas, by changing the proposed facility constructed in one area, and by modifying the timeframe for construction of one facility, as described below. These modifications were made as a result of the changes in the transportation service requirements of SNG’s customer, Georgia Power Company (Georgia Power). This supplemental NOI is being issued to notify the public about the modification to the SSEII Project and to request comments about the proposed modified facilities only. Please note that the scoping period for this supplemental NOI will close on September 8, 2008. The staff of the FERC will prepare an environmental assessment (EA) that will address the environmental impacts of the SSEIII Project proposed by SNG and the JPE Phase II Project proposed by SESH; together they are referred to as ‘‘the projects’’. The Commission will use the EA in its decision-making process to determine whether or not to authorize the project. This notice explains the scoping process we 2 will use to gather environmental input from the public and interested agencies on 1 The May 16, 2008 NOI for the projects as originally proposed is included in this supplemental NOI as an attachment. It may also be accessed via the FERC’s eLibrary. Instructions about using eLibrary are included in this document on page 7. 2 ‘‘We,’’ ‘‘us,’’ and ‘‘our’’ refer to the environmental staff of the FERC’s Office of Energy Projects. PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 47149 the projects. Your input will help the Commission determine the issues that need to be evaluated in the EA. Details on how to submit written comments are provided in the Public Participation section of this notice. If you are a landowner receiving this supplemental NOI, you may be contacted by a pipeline company representative about the acquisition of an easement to construct, operate, and maintain the proposed project facilities. The pipeline company would seek to negotiate a mutually acceptable agreement for its project. However, if the projects are approved by the Commission, that approval conveys with it the right of eminent domain. Therefore, if easement negotiations fail to produce an agreement, the pipeline company could initiate condemnation proceedings in accordance with state law. This supplemental NOI is being sent to affected landowners; federal, state, and local government agencies; elected officials; environmental and public interest groups; Native American tribes; other interested parties; and local libraries and newspapers where the modified facilities are proposed. We encourage government representatives to notify their constituents of this planned project and encourage them to comment on their areas of concern. A fact sheet prepared by the FERC entitled ‘‘An Interstate Natural Gas Facility on My Land? What Do I Need To Know?’’ is available for viewing on the FERC Internet Web site (https:// www.ferc.gov). This fact sheet addresses a number of typically asked questions, including the use of eminent domain and how to participate in the FERC’s proceedings. Summary of the Proposed Project The original SSEIII Project and the JPE Phase II Project descriptions are in the May 16, 2008 NOI and will not be repeated in this Supplemental NOI. Only the modified facilities proposed by SNG are described herein. SNG proposes to construct, own, operate, and maintain certain natural gas transportation facilities within the states of Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi for the SSEIII Project. The general locations of the proposed pipeline and compression facilities are shown in the figure included as Appendix 1,3 and the modified and 3 The appendices referenced in this notice are not being printed in the Federal Register. Copies of all appendices, other than Appendix 1 (maps), are available on the Commission’s Web site at the ‘‘eLibrary’’ link or from the Commission’s Public Reference Room, 888 First Street, NE., Washington, E:\FR\FM\13AUN1.SGM Continued 13AUN1 47150 Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 157 / Wednesday, August 13, 2008 / Notices additional facilities for which this supplemental NOI is being issued, are identified in the red boxes. The purpose of the projects is to provide natural gas transportation service to Georgia Power’s existing Plant McDonough. Georgia Power is converting the Plant McDonough electric generation from coal-fueled to natural gas-fueled. The SSEIII Project would increase pipeline capacity on SNG’s existing system to serve Georgia Power, and SESH’s proposed JPE Phase II Project would provide the required additional upstream transportation capacity. SSEIII Project ebenthall on PRODPC60 with NOTICES SNG proposes to construct the SSEIII Project in three phases. In addition to the listed facilities, SNG would install a cathodic protection system to mitigate pipeline corrosion, an AC mitigation system where the pipeline would be near high voltage power lines, ten pig launchers or receivers, and four mainline valves. Phase I would be constructed entirely within the state of Georgia. SNG has proposed no changes to the Phase I facilities or to the timing of construction of the Phase I facilities. Refer to the May 16, 2008 NOI for their description. Phase II facilities would be constructed within the state of Mississippi and Alabama. SNG has not proposed changes to the timing of construction of the Phase II facilities. However, it has proposed additional pipeline construction which is described below. Refer to the May 16, 2008 NOI for the description of the original facilities. • The South Main Third Loop Line (Gwinville Loop): An additional 4.75 miles of 36-inch-diameter pipeline loop constructed adjacent to SNG’s existing South Main System in Jefferson Davis and Simpson Counties, Mississippi, bringing the total length of the Gwinville Loop to about 14.3 miles (MPs 0.0 to 14.3).4 The Gwinville Loop would extend eastward from SNG’s existing Gwinville Compressor Station (MP 0.0) towards the existing Bay Springs Compressor Station. • The South Main Third Loop Line (Enterprise Loop): an additional 4.9 miles of 36-inch-diameter pipeline loop constructed adjacent to SNG’s existing 30-, 24-, and 18-inch-diameter pipelines DC 20426, or call (202) 502–8371. For instructions on connecting to eLibrary refer to the Public Participation section of this notice. Copies of the appendices were sent to all those receiving this notice in the mail. Requests for detailed maps of the proposed facilities should be made directly to SNG or SESH. 4 The originally proposed length of the Gwinville Loop was 9.5 miles. VerDate Aug<31>2005 15:38 Aug 12, 2008 Jkt 214001 in Lauderdale County, Mississippi, and Choctaw and Sumter Counties, Alabama, bringing the total length of the Enterprise Loop to about 7.7 miles (MPs 89.6 to 97.5).5 The Enterprise Loop would be constructed between SNG’s existing Enterprise and York Compressor Stations. The Enterprise Loop was originally proposed as a Phase III facility, but SNG now proposes to construct it during Phase II due to the modified requirements of Georgia Power. Phase III facilities would be constructed in the States of Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia. SNG has not proposed changes to facilities in the State of Georgia or to the timing of construction of the Phase III facilities. However, it has proposed additional or modified Phase III facilities in the States of Mississippi and Alabama which are described below. Refer to the May 16, 2008 NOI for the description of the original facilities. • The South Main Third Loop Line (Bay Springs Loop): A new 2.4-milelong, 36-inch-diameter pipeline loop between the existing Bay Springs and Enterprise Compressor Stations constructed adjacent to SNG’s existing 30-, 24-, and 18-inch-diameter pipelines in Clarke County, Mississippi (MPs 64.8 to 67.2). • The South Main Fourth Loop Line (Gallion Loop): An additional 3.25 miles of 36-inch-diameter pipeline loop constructed adjacent to SNG’s existing 30-, 24-, and dual 18-inch-diameter pipelines in Hale and Perry Counties, Alabama, bringing the total length of the Gallion Loop to about 9.75 miles (MPs 149.9 to 159.7).6 The Gallion Loop would be constructed between SNG’s existing Gallion and Selma Compressor Stations. • The South Main Replacement (Elmore Replacement): Rather than constructing a pipeline loop along this segment of the SSEIII Project, SNG now proposes to replace 11.7 miles of 16inch-diameter pipeline with 42-inchdiameter pipeline in Elmore County, Alabama (MPs 221.6 to 233.3). The Elmore Replacement would be constructed between SNG’s existing Elmore and Auburn Compressor Stations and would be adjacent to SNG’s existing 30-, 24-, and 18-inch-diameter pipelines. 5 The originally proposed length of the Enterprise Loop was 2.8 miles. 6 The originally proposed length of the Gallion Loop was 6.5 miles. PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 Land Requirements for Construction SSEIII Project The typical construction right-of-way width for the SSEIII Project pipelines would vary between 90 and 100 feet. The majority of this construction rightof-way, however, would overlap the existing permanent rights-of-way of the adjacent pipelines. Therefore, between zero and 55 feet of additional temporary right-of-way width would be required for construction. The typical construction right-of-way width through wetlands would be reduced to 75 feet. Following construction, SNG would retain between zero and 25 feet of additional permanent right-of-way for operation.7 Additional temporary extra workspaces beyond the typical construction right-of-way limits would be required at certain feature crossings (e.g., roads, railroads, wetlands, or waterbodies, utilities), in areas with steep side slopes, in association with special construction techniques, for topsoil segregation, and for pipe, equipment, and contractor yards. SNG would access its project construction areas primarily along the existing pipeline right-of-way and existing roads; however, other access roads may be required during construction. Based on preliminary information, construction of all of SNG’s proposed project facilities would require about 984.0 acres including a proposed meter station. Operation of the SSEIII Project would require about 57.1 acres as permanent right-of-way that would be restored as open or industrial land where aboveground facilities would be operated. The remaining 926.9 acres of temporary workspaces would be restored and would return to previous land use. These totals do not include the temporary land requirements for access roads or contractor, pipe, or equipment yards.8 The EA Process The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) requires the Commission to take into account the environmental impacts that could result from an action when it considers whether or not an interstate natural gas pipeline should be approved. The FERC will use the EA to consider the environmental impact that could result if the Projects are 7 Refer to the May 16, 2008 NOI for information about construction and operation of proposed aboveground facilities. SNG’s facilities modified in its July 31, 2008 filing do not include any changes to proposed aboveground facilities. 8 The original project would have required about 867.5 acres for construction and about 45.4 acres operation as permanent right-of-way. E:\FR\FM\13AUN1.SGM 13AUN1 Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 157 / Wednesday, August 13, 2008 / Notices ebenthall on PRODPC60 with NOTICES authorized under section 7 of the Natural Gas Act. NEPA also requires us to discover and address concerns the public may have about proposals to be considered by the Commission. This process is referred to as ‘‘scoping.’’ The main goal of the scoping process is to focus the analysis in the EA on the important environmental issues. With this Notice of Intent, the Commission staff is requesting public comments on the scope of the issues to be addressed in the EA. All comments received will be considered during preparation of the EA. In the EA we will discuss impacts that could occur as a result of the construction and operation of the proposed project under these general headings: • Geology and soils; • land use; • water resources, fisheries, and wetlands; • cultural resources; • vegetation and wildlife; • threatened and endangered species; • air quality and noise; • hazardous waste; and • public safety. In the EA, we will also evaluate possible alternatives to the proposed projects or portions of the projects, and make recommendations on how to lessen or avoid impacts on affected resources. Although no formal application has been filed, the FERC staff has already initiated its NEPA review under its NEPA Pre-filing Process. The purpose of the Pre-filing Process is to encourage the early involvement of interested stakeholders and to identify and resolve issues before an application is filed with the FERC. Public Participation You can make a difference by providing us with your specific comments or concerns about SSEIII Project. Your comments should focus on the potential environmental effects, reasonable alternatives, and measures to avoid or lessen environmental impacts. The more specific your comments, the more useful they will be. To ensure that your comments are timely and properly recorded, please send in your comments so that they will be received in Washington, DC on or before September 8, 2008. For your convenience, there are three methods which you can use to submit your comments to the Commission. In all instances please reference the project docket number, PF08–13–000, with your submission. The Commission encourages electronic filing of comments and has dedicated eFiling VerDate Aug<31>2005 15:38 Aug 12, 2008 Jkt 214001 expert staff available to assist you at 202–502–8258 or efiling@ferc.gov. (1) You may file your comments electronically by using the Quick Comment feature, which is located on the Commission’s internet Web site at https://www.ferc.gov under the link to Documents and Filings. A Quick Comment is an easy method for interested persons to submit text-only comments on a project; (2) You may file your comments electronically by using the eFiling feature, which is located on the Commission’s internet Web site at https://www.ferc.gov under the link to Documents and Filings. eFiling involves preparing your submission in the same manner as you would if filing on paper, and then saving the file on your computer’s hard drive. You will attach that file as your submission. New eFiling users must first create an account by clicking on ‘‘Sign up’’ or ‘‘eRegister.’’ You will be asked to select the type of filing you are making. A comment on a particular project is considered a ‘‘Comment on a Filing;’’ or (3) You may file your comments via mail to the Commission by sending an original and two copies of your letter to: Kimberly D. Bose, Secretary, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, 888 First St., NE., Room 1A, Washington, DC 20426. Label one copy of the comments for the attention of Gas Branch 2, PJ11.2. We might mail the EA for comment. If you are interested in receiving it, please return the Information Request (Appendix 2). If you do not return the Information Request, you will be taken off the mailing list. Additional Information Additional information about the project is available from the Commission’s Office of External Affairs, at 1–866–208–FERC (3372) or on the FERC Internet Web site (https:// www.ferc.gov) using the ‘‘eLibrary link.’’ Click on the eLibrary link, select ‘‘General Search’’ and enter the project docket number excluding the last three digits (i.e., PF06–1) in the ‘‘Docket Number’’ field. Be sure you have selected an appropriate date range. For assistance, please contact FERC Online Support at FERCOnlineSupport@ferc.gov or toll free at 1–866–208–3676, or TTY, contact (202) 502–8659. The eLibrary link on the FERC Internet Web site also provides access to the texts of formal documents issued by the Commission, such as orders, notices, and rule makings. In addition, the FERC now offers a free service called eSubscription that PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 47151 allows you to keep track of all formal issuances and submittals in specific dockets. This can reduce the amount of time you spend researching proceedings by automatically providing you with notification of these filings, document summaries, and direct links to the documents. To register for this service, go to https://www.ferc.gov/ esubscribenow.htm. SNG has established an Internet Web site for the SSEIII Project at https:// www.elpaso.com/sse3/default.shtm. The Web site includes a description of the project, a map of the proposed pipeline route, and contact information. You may also use SNG’s toll-free telephone number, 1–800–622–4481 to ask questions about the SSEIII Project. Kimberly D. Bose, Secretary. [FR Doc. E8–18727 Filed 8–12–08; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6717–01–P DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Federal Energy Regulatory Commission [Docket No. EL08–52–001] California Independent System Operator Corporation; Notice of Filing August 7, 2008. Take notice that on August 1, 2008, California Independent System Operator Corporation submitted for filing in compliance with the Commission’s July 2, 2008 Order, a revised form of ‘‘TAC Rate’’ spreadsheet. Any person desiring to intervene or to protest this filing must file in accordance with Rules 211 and 214 of the Commission’s Rules of Practice and Procedure (18 CFR 385.211, 385.214). Protests will be considered by the Commission in determining the appropriate action to be taken, but will not serve to make protestants parties to the proceeding. Any person wishing to become a party must file a notice of intervention or motion to intervene, as appropriate. Such notices, motions, or protests must be filed on or before the comment date. Anyone filing a motion to intervene or protest must serve a copy of that document on the Applicant and all the parties in this proceeding. The Commission encourages electronic submission of protests and interventions in lieu of paper using the ‘‘eFiling’’ link at https://www.ferc.gov. Persons unable to file electronically should submit an original and 14 copies of the protest or intervention to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, E:\FR\FM\13AUN1.SGM 13AUN1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 73, Number 157 (Wednesday, August 13, 2008)]
[Notices]
[Pages 47149-47151]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E8-18727]


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DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY

Federal Energy Regulatory Commission

[Docket No. PF08-13-000]


Southern Natural Gas Company; Supplemental Notice of Intent To 
Prepare An Environmental Assessment for the South System Expansion III 
Project and Request for Comments On Environmental Issues

August 7, 2008.
    The staff of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC or 
Commission) issued on May 16, 2008, a Notice of Intent to Prepare an 
Environmental Assessment (NOI) \1\ for the related natural gas pipeline 
projects proposed by Southern Natural Gas Company (SNG) for the South 
System Expansion III Project (SSEIII Project), Docket No. PF08-13-000; 
and by Southeast Supply Header, LLC (SESH) for the Joint Pipeline 
Expansion Phase II Project (JPE Phase II Project), Docket No. PF08-16-
000. In documents filed July 31, 2008, SNG informed that it has 
modified the SSEIII Project by adding additional pipeline facilities in 
four areas, by changing the proposed facility constructed in one area, 
and by modifying the timeframe for construction of one facility, as 
described below. These modifications were made as a result of the 
changes in the transportation service requirements of SNG's customer, 
Georgia Power Company (Georgia Power). This supplemental NOI is being 
issued to notify the public about the modification to the SSEII Project 
and to request comments about the proposed modified facilities only. 
Please note that the scoping period for this supplemental NOI will 
close on September 8, 2008.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \1\ The May 16, 2008 NOI for the projects as originally proposed 
is included in this supplemental NOI as an attachment. It may also 
be accessed via the FERC's eLibrary. Instructions about using 
eLibrary are included in this document on page 7.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The staff of the FERC will prepare an environmental assessment (EA) 
that will address the environmental impacts of the SSEIII Project 
proposed by SNG and the JPE Phase II Project proposed by SESH; together 
they are referred to as ``the projects''. The Commission will use the 
EA in its decision-making process to determine whether or not to 
authorize the project. This notice explains the scoping process we \2\ 
will use to gather environmental input from the public and interested 
agencies on the projects. Your input will help the Commission determine 
the issues that need to be evaluated in the EA.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \2\ ``We,'' ``us,'' and ``our'' refer to the environmental staff 
of the FERC's Office of Energy Projects.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Details on how to submit written comments are provided in the 
Public Participation section of this notice.
    If you are a landowner receiving this supplemental NOI, you may be 
contacted by a pipeline company representative about the acquisition of 
an easement to construct, operate, and maintain the proposed project 
facilities. The pipeline company would seek to negotiate a mutually 
acceptable agreement for its project. However, if the projects are 
approved by the Commission, that approval conveys with it the right of 
eminent domain. Therefore, if easement negotiations fail to produce an 
agreement, the pipeline company could initiate condemnation proceedings 
in accordance with state law.
    This supplemental NOI is being sent to affected landowners; 
federal, state, and local government agencies; elected officials; 
environmental and public interest groups; Native American tribes; other 
interested parties; and local libraries and newspapers where the 
modified facilities are proposed. We encourage government 
representatives to notify their constituents of this planned project 
and encourage them to comment on their areas of concern.
    A fact sheet prepared by the FERC entitled ``An Interstate Natural 
Gas Facility on My Land? What Do I Need To Know?'' is available for 
viewing on the FERC Internet Web site (https://www.ferc.gov). This fact 
sheet addresses a number of typically asked questions, including the 
use of eminent domain and how to participate in the FERC's proceedings.

Summary of the Proposed Project

    The original SSEIII Project and the JPE Phase II Project 
descriptions are in the May 16, 2008 NOI and will not be repeated in 
this Supplemental NOI. Only the modified facilities proposed by SNG are 
described herein.
    SNG proposes to construct, own, operate, and maintain certain 
natural gas transportation facilities within the states of Georgia, 
Alabama, and Mississippi for the SSEIII Project. The general locations 
of the proposed pipeline and compression facilities are shown in the 
figure included as Appendix 1,\3\ and the modified and

[[Page 47150]]

additional facilities for which this supplemental NOI is being issued, 
are identified in the red boxes. The purpose of the projects is to 
provide natural gas transportation service to Georgia Power's existing 
Plant McDonough. Georgia Power is converting the Plant McDonough 
electric generation from coal-fueled to natural gas-fueled. The SSEIII 
Project would increase pipeline capacity on SNG's existing system to 
serve Georgia Power, and SESH's proposed JPE Phase II Project would 
provide the required additional upstream transportation capacity.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \3\ The appendices referenced in this notice are not being 
printed in the Federal Register. Copies of all appendices, other 
than Appendix 1 (maps), are available on the Commission's Web site 
at the ``eLibrary'' link or from the Commission's Public Reference 
Room, 888 First Street, NE., Washington, DC 20426, or call (202) 
502-8371. For instructions on connecting to eLibrary refer to the 
Public Participation section of this notice. Copies of the 
appendices were sent to all those receiving this notice in the mail. 
Requests for detailed maps of the proposed facilities should be made 
directly to SNG or SESH.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

SSEIII Project

    SNG proposes to construct the SSEIII Project in three phases. In 
addition to the listed facilities, SNG would install a cathodic 
protection system to mitigate pipeline corrosion, an AC mitigation 
system where the pipeline would be near high voltage power lines, ten 
pig launchers or receivers, and four mainline valves.
    Phase I would be constructed entirely within the state of Georgia. 
SNG has proposed no changes to the Phase I facilities or to the timing 
of construction of the Phase I facilities. Refer to the May 16, 2008 
NOI for their description.
    Phase II facilities would be constructed within the state of 
Mississippi and Alabama. SNG has not proposed changes to the timing of 
construction of the Phase II facilities. However, it has proposed 
additional pipeline construction which is described below. Refer to the 
May 16, 2008 NOI for the description of the original facilities.
     The South Main Third Loop Line (Gwinville Loop): An 
additional 4.75 miles of 36-inch-diameter pipeline loop constructed 
adjacent to SNG's existing South Main System in Jefferson Davis and 
Simpson Counties, Mississippi, bringing the total length of the 
Gwinville Loop to about 14.3 miles (MPs 0.0 to 14.3).\4\ The Gwinville 
Loop would extend eastward from SNG's existing Gwinville Compressor 
Station (MP 0.0) towards the existing Bay Springs Compressor Station.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \4\ The originally proposed length of the Gwinville Loop was 9.5 
miles.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

     The South Main Third Loop Line (Enterprise Loop): an 
additional 4.9 miles of 36-inch-diameter pipeline loop constructed 
adjacent to SNG's existing 30-, 24-, and 18-inch-diameter pipelines in 
Lauderdale County, Mississippi, and Choctaw and Sumter Counties, 
Alabama, bringing the total length of the Enterprise Loop to about 7.7 
miles (MPs 89.6 to 97.5).\5\ The Enterprise Loop would be constructed 
between SNG's existing Enterprise and York Compressor Stations. The 
Enterprise Loop was originally proposed as a Phase III facility, but 
SNG now proposes to construct it during Phase II due to the modified 
requirements of Georgia Power.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \5\ The originally proposed length of the Enterprise Loop was 
2.8 miles.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Phase III facilities would be constructed in the States of 
Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia. SNG has not proposed changes to 
facilities in the State of Georgia or to the timing of construction of 
the Phase III facilities. However, it has proposed additional or 
modified Phase III facilities in the States of Mississippi and Alabama 
which are described below. Refer to the May 16, 2008 NOI for the 
description of the original facilities.
     The South Main Third Loop Line (Bay Springs Loop): A new 
2.4-mile-long, 36-inch-diameter pipeline loop between the existing Bay 
Springs and Enterprise Compressor Stations constructed adjacent to 
SNG's existing 30-, 24-, and 18-inch-diameter pipelines in Clarke 
County, Mississippi (MPs 64.8 to 67.2).
     The South Main Fourth Loop Line (Gallion Loop): An 
additional 3.25 miles of 36-inch-diameter pipeline loop constructed 
adjacent to SNG's existing 30-, 24-, and dual 18-inch-diameter 
pipelines in Hale and Perry Counties, Alabama, bringing the total 
length of the Gallion Loop to about 9.75 miles (MPs 149.9 to 159.7).\6\ 
The Gallion Loop would be constructed between SNG's existing Gallion 
and Selma Compressor Stations.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \6\ The originally proposed length of the Gallion Loop was 6.5 
miles.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

     The South Main Replacement (Elmore Replacement): Rather 
than constructing a pipeline loop along this segment of the SSEIII 
Project, SNG now proposes to replace 11.7 miles of 16-inch-diameter 
pipeline with 42-inch-diameter pipeline in Elmore County, Alabama (MPs 
221.6 to 233.3). The Elmore Replacement would be constructed between 
SNG's existing Elmore and Auburn Compressor Stations and would be 
adjacent to SNG's existing 30-, 24-, and 18-inch-diameter pipelines.

Land Requirements for Construction

SSEIII Project

    The typical construction right-of-way width for the SSEIII Project 
pipelines would vary between 90 and 100 feet. The majority of this 
construction right-of-way, however, would overlap the existing 
permanent rights-of-way of the adjacent pipelines. Therefore, between 
zero and 55 feet of additional temporary right-of-way width would be 
required for construction. The typical construction right-of-way width 
through wetlands would be reduced to 75 feet. Following construction, 
SNG would retain between zero and 25 feet of additional permanent 
right-of-way for operation.\7\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \7\ Refer to the May 16, 2008 NOI for information about 
construction and operation of proposed aboveground facilities. SNG's 
facilities modified in its July 31, 2008 filing do not include any 
changes to proposed aboveground facilities.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Additional temporary extra workspaces beyond the typical 
construction right-of-way limits would be required at certain feature 
crossings (e.g., roads, railroads, wetlands, or waterbodies, 
utilities), in areas with steep side slopes, in association with 
special construction techniques, for topsoil segregation, and for pipe, 
equipment, and contractor yards. SNG would access its project 
construction areas primarily along the existing pipeline right-of-way 
and existing roads; however, other access roads may be required during 
construction.
    Based on preliminary information, construction of all of SNG's 
proposed project facilities would require about 984.0 acres including a 
proposed meter station. Operation of the SSEIII Project would require 
about 57.1 acres as permanent right-of-way that would be restored as 
open or industrial land where aboveground facilities would be operated. 
The remaining 926.9 acres of temporary workspaces would be restored and 
would return to previous land use. These totals do not include the 
temporary land requirements for access roads or contractor, pipe, or 
equipment yards.\8\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \8\ The original project would have required about 867.5 acres 
for construction and about 45.4 acres operation as permanent right-
of-way.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

The EA Process

    The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) requires the 
Commission to take into account the environmental impacts that could 
result from an action when it considers whether or not an interstate 
natural gas pipeline should be approved. The FERC will use the EA to 
consider the environmental impact that could result if the Projects are

[[Page 47151]]

authorized under section 7 of the Natural Gas Act. NEPA also requires 
us to discover and address concerns the public may have about proposals 
to be considered by the Commission. This process is referred to as 
``scoping.'' The main goal of the scoping process is to focus the 
analysis in the EA on the important environmental issues. With this 
Notice of Intent, the Commission staff is requesting public comments on 
the scope of the issues to be addressed in the EA. All comments 
received will be considered during preparation of the EA.
    In the EA we will discuss impacts that could occur as a result of 
the construction and operation of the proposed project under these 
general headings:
     Geology and soils;
     land use;
     water resources, fisheries, and wetlands;
     cultural resources;
     vegetation and wildlife;
     threatened and endangered species;
     air quality and noise;
     hazardous waste; and
     public safety.
    In the EA, we will also evaluate possible alternatives to the 
proposed projects or portions of the projects, and make recommendations 
on how to lessen or avoid impacts on affected resources.
    Although no formal application has been filed, the FERC staff has 
already initiated its NEPA review under its NEPA Pre-filing Process. 
The purpose of the Pre-filing Process is to encourage the early 
involvement of interested stakeholders and to identify and resolve 
issues before an application is filed with the FERC.

Public Participation

    You can make a difference by providing us with your specific 
comments or concerns about SSEIII Project. Your comments should focus 
on the potential environmental effects, reasonable alternatives, and 
measures to avoid or lessen environmental impacts. The more specific 
your comments, the more useful they will be. To ensure that your 
comments are timely and properly recorded, please send in your comments 
so that they will be received in Washington, DC on or before September 
8, 2008.
    For your convenience, there are three methods which you can use to 
submit your comments to the Commission. In all instances please 
reference the project docket number, PF08-13-000, with your submission. 
The Commission encourages electronic filing of comments and has 
dedicated eFiling expert staff available to assist you at 202-502-8258 
or efiling@ferc.gov.
    (1) You may file your comments electronically by using the Quick 
Comment feature, which is located on the Commission's internet Web site 
at https://www.ferc.gov under the link to Documents and Filings. A Quick 
Comment is an easy method for interested persons to submit text-only 
comments on a project;
    (2) You may file your comments electronically by using the eFiling 
feature, which is located on the Commission's internet Web site at 
https://www.ferc.gov under the link to Documents and Filings. eFiling 
involves preparing your submission in the same manner as you would if 
filing on paper, and then saving the file on your computer's hard 
drive. You will attach that file as your submission. New eFiling users 
must first create an account by clicking on ``Sign up'' or 
``eRegister.'' You will be asked to select the type of filing you are 
making. A comment on a particular project is considered a ``Comment on 
a Filing;'' or
    (3) You may file your comments via mail to the Commission by 
sending an original and two copies of your letter to:
    Kimberly D. Bose, Secretary, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, 
888 First St., NE., Room 1A, Washington, DC 20426.
    Label one copy of the comments for the attention of Gas Branch 2, 
PJ11.2.
    We might mail the EA for comment. If you are interested in 
receiving it, please return the Information Request (Appendix 2). If 
you do not return the Information Request, you will be taken off the 
mailing list.

Additional Information

    Additional information about the project is available from the 
Commission's Office of External Affairs, at 1-866-208-FERC (3372) or on 
the FERC Internet Web site (https://www.ferc.gov) using the ``eLibrary 
link.'' Click on the eLibrary link, select ``General Search'' and enter 
the project docket number excluding the last three digits (i.e., PF06-
1) in the ``Docket Number'' field. Be sure you have selected an 
appropriate date range. For assistance, please contact FERC Online 
Support at FERCOnlineSupport@ferc.gov or toll free at 1-866-208-3676, 
or TTY, contact (202) 502-8659. The eLibrary link on the FERC Internet 
Web site also provides access to the texts of formal documents issued 
by the Commission, such as orders, notices, and rule makings.
    In addition, the FERC now offers a free service called 
eSubscription that allows you to keep track of all formal issuances and 
submittals in specific dockets. This can reduce the amount of time you 
spend researching proceedings by automatically providing you with 
notification of these filings, document summaries, and direct links to 
the documents. To register for this service, go to https://www.ferc.gov/
esubscribenow.htm.
    SNG has established an Internet Web site for the SSEIII Project at 
https://www.elpaso.com/sse3/default.shtm. The Web site includes a 
description of the project, a map of the proposed pipeline route, and 
contact information. You may also use SNG's toll-free telephone number, 
1-800-622-4481 to ask questions about the SSEIII Project.

Kimberly D. Bose,
Secretary.
[FR Doc. E8-18727 Filed 8-12-08; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6717-01-P
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