Proposed Amendment of Rogue River, Umpqua and Winema National Forest (NF) Land and Resource Management Plans for the Pacific Connector Gas Pipeline, 28214-28217 [E9-14045]

Download as PDF 28214 Federal Register / Vol. 74, No. 113 / Monday, June 15, 2009 / Notices pwalker on PROD1PC71 with NOTICES approximately 434 consumers contacted by telephone will decline to participate in the surveys). Estimated No. of Annual Responses per Respondent: 1. Estimated Total Annual Burden on Respondents: 144.8 hours. Copies of this information collection assessment can be obtained from John O’Connell, Paperwork Reduction Act Coordinator, Food Safety and Inspection Service, USDA, 1400 Independence, SW., Room 3532, South Bldg., Washington, DC 20250, (202)720–0345. Comments are invited on: (a) Whether the proposed collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of FSIS’s functions, including whether the information will have practical utility; (b) the accuracy of FSIS’s estimate of the burden of the proposed collection of information, including the validity of the methodology and assumptions used; (c) ways to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and (d) ways to minimize the burden of the collection of information, including through the use of appropriate automated, electronic, mechanical, or other technological collection techniques, or other forms of information technology. Comments may be sent to both FSIS, at the addresses provided above, and the Desk Officer for Agriculture, Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, Office of Management and Budget, Washington, DC 20253. Responses to this notice will be summarized and included in the request for OMB approval. All comments will also become a matter of public record. Additional Public Notification Public awareness of all segments of rulemaking and policy development is important. Consequently, in an effort to ensure that the public and in particular minorities, women, and persons with disabilities are aware of this notice, FSIS will announce it on-line through the FSIS Web page located at https:// www.fsis.usda.gov/regulations/ 2009_Notices_Index/index.asp. FSIS also will make copies of this Federal Register publication available through the FSIS Constituent Update, which is used to provide information regarding FSIS policies, procedures, regulations, Federal Register notices, FSIS public meetings, and other types of information that could affect or would be of interest to our constituents and stakeholders. The Update is communicated via Listserv, a free e-mail subscription service consisting of industry, trade, and farm groups, consumer interest groups, allied health VerDate Nov<24>2008 16:47 Jun 12, 2009 Jkt 217001 professionals, scientific professionals, and other individuals who have requested to be included. The Update also is available on the FSIS Web page. Through Listserv and the Web page, FSIS is able to provide information to a much broader, more diverse audience. In addition, FSIS offers an e-mail subscription service which provides automatic and customized access to selected food safety news and information. This service is available at https://www.fsis.usda.gov/ news_and_events/email_subscription/. Options range from recalls to export information to regulations, directives and notices. Customers can add or delete subscriptions themselves, and have the option to password protect their accounts. Done at Washington, DC, on June 9, 2009. Alfred V. Almanza, Administrator. [FR Doc. E9–13936 Filed 6–12–09; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3410–DM–P DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Forest Service Proposed Amendment of Rogue River, Umpqua and Winema National Forest (NF) Land and Resource Management Plans for the Pacific Connector Gas Pipeline Forest Service, USDA. Notice of intent to prepare an environmental impact statement for Land and Resource Management Plan amendments. AGENCY: ACTION: SUMMARY: The USDA Forest Service is proposing to amend the Land and Resource Management Plans (LRMP) of the Rogue River (administered as the Rogue River-Siskiyou NF), Umpqua, and Winema (administered as the FremontWinema NF) National Forests to make provision for the proposed Pacific Connector Gas Pipeline (PCGP). The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) is the lead agency for the environmental analysis of the construction and operation of the proposed natural gas pipeline (FERC Docket No. CP07–441–000). The FERC has prepared an environmental impact statement (EIS) that discusses the environmental impacts that could result from the construction and operation of the PCGP. FERC issued the FEIS for the PCGP on May 1, 2009. The U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service is a Cooperating Agency with the FERC in environmental analysis and preparation of the EIS for the PCGP. Certain features of the PCGP PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 Project could not be made consistent with the LRMPs of the Rogue River, Umpqua and Winema National Forests because of the nature of pipeline construction. Therefore, in order to comply with the requirements of the National Forest Management Act (NFMA) the Forest Service must amend these LRMPs to make provision for the PCGP. DATES: Comments concerning the scope of the analysis must be received by 30 days from the date this notice is published in the Federal Register. The draft environmental impact statement for amendment of forest plans is expected to be published in August, 2009 and the final environmental impact statement is expected in December, 2009. ADDRESSES: Send written comments to: Pam Sichting, Umpqua National Forest, 2900 NW. Stewart Parkway, Roseburg, OR 97471. Comments may also be sent via e-mail to: commentspacificnorthwest-umpqua@fs.fed.us, or via facsimile to 541–957–3495. Comments may be hand-delivered to the above address Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. till 4:30 p.m., excluding legal holidays. Comments received in response to this solicitation, including names and addresses of those who comment, will be part of the public record for this proposed action. Comments submitted anonymously will be accepted and considered; however, anonymous comments will not provide the respondent with standing to appeal the subsequent decision. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Pam Sichting at 541–957–3342 or by e-mail at psichting@fs.fed.us. Individuals who use telecommunication devices for the deaf (TDD) may call the Federal Information Relay Service (FIRS) at 1– 800–877–8339 between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. Information concerning the construction and operation of the PCGP is contained in the FERC Jordon CovePacific Connector Gas Pipeline Project Final Environmental Impact Statement. Also information about the Project is available from the FERC 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, click on ‘‘General Search,’’ and enter the docket number (CP07–441–000) excluding the last three digits in the Docket. For assistance, please contact FERC Online Support at FercOnlineSupport@ferc.gov or toll free at 1–866–208–3676, or for TTY, contact (202) 502–8659. The E:\FR\FM\15JNN1.SGM 15JNN1 Federal Register / Vol. 74, No. 113 / Monday, June 15, 2009 / Notices pwalker on PROD1PC71 with NOTICES eLibrary link on the FERC Internet Web site also provides access to the texts of final documents issued by the Commission, such as Orders, notices, and rule makings. Finally, PCGP has established a Web site for this project at https:// www.pacificconnectorgp.com/. The Web site includes a project overview, timeline, safety and environmental information, and answers to frequently asked questions. You can also request additional information by e-mailing PCGP at pacificconnector@williams.com or by phone at 866–227–9249. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Purpose and Need for Action Jordon Cove—Pacific Connector LP (Company) has proposed to construct a 36 inch natural gas pipeline from a liquified natural gas terminal at Coos Bay, Oregon, to an interstate gas transmission pipeline at Malin, Oregon. The PCGP will provide natural gas to southern Oregon, the Willamette Valley, California and Nevada. The Company submitted its application for the Pacific Connector Gas Pipeline (PCGP) project to the FERC on September 4, 2007. The applications were noticed in the Federal Register on September 13, 2007. The FERC authorizes the construction and operation of natural gas pipelines upon its determination that the pipeline fulfills a public need. The PCGP is proposed to cross the Rogue River, Umpqua and Winema National Forests on its route between Coos Bay and Malin, Oregon. Transmission of natural gas is a legitimate use of public land consistent with the Natural Gas Act, the Energy Policy Act of 2005 and the Forest Service’s National Strategic Plan, 2007–2012. A Notice of Intent (NOI) was issued by the FERC for construction and operation of the PCGP on June 23, 2006. Subsequently, a Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) was made available to the public on August 29, 2008. The public comment period on the DEIS closed on December 4, 2008. The FERC, as lead Federal agency, issued the Jordan Cove-Pacific Connector Gas Pipeline Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) on May 1, 2009. For portions of the proposed PCGP that cross National Forest System lands, the Forest Service was a cooperating agency with the FERC in preparing the EIS for the Project. The FERC will use this FEIS to determine whether to issue a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (Certificate). The Certificate authorizes construction and operation of the PCGP. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) issues and administers natural VerDate Nov<24>2008 16:47 Jun 12, 2009 Jkt 217001 gas pipeline Right of Way Grants across all Federal lands, including the Forest Service, under the Mineral Leasing Act. The PCGP must have a Right of Way Grant to occupy any Federal lands in addition to the FERC’s Certificate. To issue a Right of Way Grant across NFS lands, the BLM must obtain the consent of the Forest Service. The National Forest Management Act (NFMA) requires all projects or activities on a given National Forest to be consistent with that Forest’s LRMP. Certain features of this project could not be made consistent with the LRMPs of the Rogue River, Umpqua and Winema National Forests because of the nature of pipeline construction. Therefore, the Forest Service must amend these LRMPs in order to comply with the requirements of NFMA prior to consenting to the BLM’s issuance of a Right of Way Grant. This Notice of Intent is for preparation of an EIS by the Forest Service that will consider and disclose the significance of these proposed amendments pursuant to 36 CFR 219.10(f)(1982 Version). The issue of whether a plan amendment is significant is guided by several factors, including the timing and duration of the proposed change, the location and size of the project, and how the proposed change may alter multiple-use goals and objectives for long-term land and resource management. In this analysis of significance, the Forest Service will rely on the FERC EIS for consideration of environmental consequences of construction and operation of the PCGP. These amendments of Forest Plans will only be implemented if the FERC authorizes the PCGP. Proposed Action This Proposed Action is to amend the LRMPs of the Rogue River, Umpqua and Winema National Forests to make provision for the PCGP. Rogue River NF LRMP—The Forest Service proposes to amend the Rogue River NF LRMP as follows: • By establishing a Forest Plan objective that states: While considering other multiple use values, the Forest shall facilitate and make provision for energy transmission via the Pacific Connector Gas Pipeline consistent with the Energy Policy Act of 2005, the Mineral Leasing Act, the Natural Gas Act, the Multiple Use Sustained Yield Act and the National Forest Management Act. • By changing the designation of approximately 600 acres from the matrix land allocation to the LSR 227 land allocation. Standards and Guidelines for Developments in Late Successional Reserves (LSRs) require that new PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 28215 developments that may adversely affect LSRs be minimized or mitigated (see Standards and Guidelines for Management of Habitat for LateSuccessional and Old-Growth Related Species Within the Range of the Northern Spotted Owl, Page C–17). This change in land allocation is proposed to mitigate the potential adverse impact of the PCGP on LSR 227 on the Rogue River National Forest. This amendment would change future management direction for the lands transferred from matrix to LSR. Additional mitigations for impacts to LSRs are included in the FERC FEIS in Appendix L for the PCGP. • By changing the Visual Quality Objective (VQO) in the vicinity where the 75 foot wide PCGP Right of Way crosses the Big Elk Road from Foreground Retention to Foreground Partial Retention and allowing ten to fifteen years for amended visual quality objectives to be attained. Existing Standards and Guidelines for VQO in foreground retention where the PCGP crosses the Big Elk Road require VQO’s be met within 1 year of completion of the project and that management activities not be visually evident (Rogue River NF LRMP, Page 4–72, Management Area 6). This amendment applies only to the Right of Way of the PCGP in the vicinity of the Big Elk Road and does not change future management direction for any other project. Additional mitigations for impacts to scenic resources are included in the PCGP FEIS Appendix L. • By changing the Visual Quality Objective in the vicinity where the 75 foot wide PCGP Right of Way crosses the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) from Foreground Partial Retention to modification and allowing ten to fifteen years for amended visual quality objectives to be attained. Existing Standards and Guidelines for Visual Quality Objectives in Foreground Partial Retention (Rogue River NF LRMP, Page 4–86, Management Area 7) where the PCGP crosses the Pacific Crest Trail, requires visual mitigations to meet the stated visual quality objective within 2 years of the completion of the project and that management activities be visually subordinate to the landscape. This amendment applies only to the Right of Way of the PCGP in the vicinity of the Pacific Crest Trail and does not change future management direction. Additional mitigations for visual impacts are included in the PCGP FEIS Appendix L. • By waiving restrictions on detrimental soil conditions from displacement and compaction within the Right of Way of the PCGP in all management areas. Standards and E:\FR\FM\15JNN1.SGM 15JNN1 pwalker on PROD1PC71 with NOTICES 28216 Federal Register / Vol. 74, No. 113 / Monday, June 15, 2009 / Notices Guidelines for detrimental soil impacts in all affected management areas require that no more than 10% of the activity area be detrimentally compacted, puddled or displaced upon completion of a project. Additional mitigations for detrimental soil conditions are in the PCGP FEIS in Appendix L. • By allowing the PCGP to cross the Restricted Riparian land allocation. This potentially affects two perennial streams and approximately 0.7 of an acre of the Restricted Riparian land allocation. Standards and Guidelines for the Restricted Riparian land allocation (Rogue River NF LRMP, page 4–308, Management Area 26) states that transmission corridors should be located outside of this management area. This amendment applies only to the project area of the PCGP and does not change future management direction. Mitigations for potential adverse impacts to the Restricted Riparian land allocation are included in the PCGP FEIS in Appendix L. Umpqua NF LRMP—The Forest Service proposes to amend the Umpqua NF LRMP as follows: • By changing the designation of approximately 585 acres from the matrix land allocation to the LSR 223 land allocation. Standards and Guidelines for Developments in Late Successional Reserves (LSRs) require that new developments that may adversely affect LSRs be minimized or mitigated (see Standards and Guidelines for Management of Habitat for LateSuccessional and Old-Growth Related Species Within the Range of the Northern Spotted Owl, Page C–17). This change in land allocation is proposed to mitigate the potential adverse impact of the PCGP on LSR 223 on the Umpqua NF. This amendment would change future management direction for the lands transferred from matrix to LSR. Additional mitigations for impacts to LSRs are included in the PCGP FEIS in Appendix L. • By amending Standards and Guidelines for Fisheries (Umpqua NF LRMP, page IV–33, Forest-Wide) to allow the removal of effective shading vegetation where perennial streams are crossed by the PCGP. This potentially affects approximately 5 perennial streams by removing an estimated 3 acres of effective shade. This amendment applies only to the 75 foot right of way where the PCGP crosses perennial streams and does not change future management direction at any other location. Mitigations for impacts on fisheries are included in the FERC FEIS for the PCGP in Appendix L. • By waiving restrictions on detrimental soil conditions from VerDate Nov<24>2008 16:47 Jun 12, 2009 Jkt 217001 displacement and compaction within the Right of Way of the PCGP. Standards and Guidelines for Soils (Umpqua NF LRMP, page IV–67) requires that not more than 20% of the project area should have detrimental compaction, displacement or puddling after completion of the project. This amendment applies only to the project area of the PCGP and does not change future management direction. Mitigations for soils with detrimental conditions are included in the PCGP FEIS in Appendix L. • By amending prescriptions C2–I, C2–II, C2–III, C2–IV, C2–V, and C2–VI (Umpqua NF LRMP IV–169–182) to allow the PCGP to cross Riparian Areas and run parallel to streams. This potentially affects approximately 0.8 of an acre of Riparian Reserve. This amendment applies only to the project area of the PCGP and does not change future management direction. Mitigations for potential adverse impacts from Project stream crossings are included in the FEIS for the PCGP in Appendix L. Winema National Forest—The Forest Service proposes to amend the Winema NF LRMP as follows: • By amending Standards and Guidelines for Management Area 3 (Winema NF LRMP, page 4–103–4, Lands) to allow the 95 foot wide PCGP corridor in MA–3 from the Forest Boundary to the Clover Creek Road corridor. This corridor is approximately 1 mile long and affects and potentially affects approximately 11 acres. This amendment applies only to the project area of the PCGP and does not change future management direction. Mitigations for potential adverse impacts to scenic values are included in the FEIS for the PCGP in Appendix L. • By allowing more time to achieve Visual Quality Objectives (VQO) in the vicinity where the 75 foot wide PCGP corridor crosses the Dead Indian Memorial Highway. Standards and Guidelines for Scenic Management, Foreground Retention (Winema NF LRMP, page 4–103, MA 3A, Foreground Retention) require visual quality objectives for a given location be achieved within 1 year of completion of the project. The Forest Service proposes to allow a longer time frame to meet the specified VQO at this location. This amendment applies only to the project area of the PCGP and does not change future management direction. Mitigations for visual impacts are included in the FEIS for the PCGP in Appendix L. • By allowing more time to meet Visual Quality Objectives (VQO) for Scenic Management, Foreground Partial PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 Retention where the PCGP is in the vicinity of the Clover Creek Road from approximate pipeline milepost 170 to 175. This potentially affects approximately 50 acres where it will take additional time to meet the Partial Retention standard. Standards and Guidelines for Foreground Partial Retention (Winema NF LRMP, page 4– 107, MA 3B) requires that visual quality objectives be met within 1 year of completion of a project. The Forest Service proposes to allow a longer time frame to meet the amended VQO at this location. This amendment applies only to the project area of the PCGP in the vicinity of the Clover Creek Road and does not change future management direction. Mitigations for potential adverse impacts to scenic values are included in the FEIS for the PCGP in Appendix L. • By waiving restrictions on detrimental soil conditions from displacement and compaction within the Right of Way of the PCGP in all management areas. Standards and Guidelines for detrimental soil impacts (Winema NF LRMP, page 4–73, 12–5) in all affected management areas require that no more than 20% of the activity area be detrimentally compacted, puddled or displaced upon completion of a project. Additional mitigations for detrimental soil conditions are in the PCGP FEIS in Appendix L. • By waiving restrictions on detrimental soil conditions from displacement and compaction within the 75 foot wide Right of Way of the PCGP within Management Area 8 Riparian Area. This potentially affects approximately 0.5 miles of Management Area 8 Riparian Area totaling an estimated 9.6 acres. Standards and Guidelines for Soil and Water, Management Area 8 (Winema NF LRMP, page 4–137, 2) require that not more than 10% of the total riparian zone in an activity area be in a detrimental soil condition upon the completion of a project. This amendment applies only to the project area of the PCGP and does not change future management direction. Mitigations for potential adverse soil impacts are included in the PCGP FEIS in Appendix L. Lead Agency The Forest Service is the Lead Agency for amendments of Forest Plans. Responsible Official The Responsible Officials for amendments of the Rogue River, Umpqua and Winema LRMPs are respectively Forest Supervisors, Scott D. Conroy, Clifford J. Dils and Karen Shimamoto. E:\FR\FM\15JNN1.SGM 15JNN1 Federal Register / Vol. 74, No. 113 / Monday, June 15, 2009 / Notices Nature of Decision To Be Made The nature of the decision to be made is whether the respective LRMPs would be amended if the FERC authorizes the PCGP. Scoping Process This notice of intent initiates the scoping process, which guides the development of the environmental impact statement. With this NOI, the Forest Service is requesting public comments on the proposed amendments of the Rogue River, Umpqua and Winema NF LRMPs. It is important that reviewers provide their comments at such times and in such manner that they are useful to the agency’s preparation of the environmental impact statement. Therefore, comments should be provided prior to the close of the comment period and should clearly articulate the reviewer’s concerns and contentions. The submission of timely and specific comments can affect a reviewer’s ability to participate in subsequent administrative appeal or judicial review. Dated: June 8, 2009. Clifford J. Dils, Forest Supervisor. [FR Doc. E9–14045 Filed 6–12–09; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3410–11–P DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service [Docket No. APHIS–2009–0005] Notice of Availability of an Evaluation of the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Subtype H5N1 Status of Hungary pwalker on PROD1PC71 with NOTICES AGENCY: Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, USDA. ACTION: Notice of availability and request for comments. SUMMARY: We are advising the public that the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service has prepared an evaluation of the animal health status of ´ two counties (Bacs-Kiskun and ´ Csongrad) in Hungary relative to the H5N1 subtype of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). The evaluation presents our assessment of the HPAI H5N1 detection, control, and eradication measures in place in those two counties in Hungary during outbreaks of HPAI H5N1 in 2006 and 2007. If, after the close of the comment period, APHIS can identify no additional risk factors that would VerDate Nov<24>2008 16:47 Jun 12, 2009 Jkt 217001 indicate that domestic poultry in these two counties continue to be affected with HPAI H5N1, we would conclude that the importation of live birds, poultry carcasses, parts of carcasses, and eggs (other than hatching eggs) of poultry, game birds, or other birds from ´ ´ Bacs-Kiskun and Csongrad Counties in Hungary presents a low risk of introducing HPAI H5N1 into the United States. DATES: We will consider all comments that we receive on or before July 15, 2009. ADDRESSES: You may submit comments by either of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov/fdmspublic/ component/ main?main=DocketDetial&d=APHIS2009-0005 to submit or view comments and to view supporting and related materials available electronically. • Postal Mail/Commercial Delivery: Please send two copies of your comment to Docket No. APHIS–2009–0005, Regulatory Analysis and Development, PPD, APHIS, Station 3A–03.8, 4700 River Road Unit 118, Riverdale, MD 20737–1238. Please state that your comment refers to Docket No. APHIS– 2009–0005. Reading Room: You may read any comments that we receive on the evaluation in our reading room. The reading room is located in room 1141 of the USDA South Building, 14th Street and Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC. Normal reading room house are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, except holidays. To be sure someone is there to help you, please call (202) 690–2817 before coming. Other Information: Additional information about APHIS and its programs is available on the Internet at https://www.aphis.usda.gov. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mr. Javier Vargas, Case Manager, Regionalization Evaluation Services Staff, National Center for Import and Export, VS, APHIS, 4700 River Road, Unit 38, Riverdale, MD 20737–1231; (301) 734–0756. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Background Under the Animal Health Protection Act (7 U.S.C. 8301 et seq.), the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has the authority to prohibit or restrict the importation into the United States of animals, animal products, and other articles in order to prevent the introduction of diseases and pests into the U.S. livestock and poultry populations. PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 28217 Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) is a highly infectious disease of poultry. The H5N1 subtype of HPAI is an extremely infectious and fatal form of the disease. HPAI can strike poultry quickly without any warning signs of infection and, once established, can spread rapidly from flock to flock. HPAI viruses can also be spread by manure, equipment, vehicles, egg flats, crates, and people whose clothing or shoes have come in contact with the virus. HPAI viruses can remain viable at moderate temperatures for long periods in the environment and can survive indefinitely in frozen material. The H5N1 subtype of HPAI has been of particular concern because it has crossed the species barrier and caused disease in humans. From June 9 to July 12, 2006, Hungary’s Department for Food Chain Safety and Animal Health (DFCSAH) reported to the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) seven outbreaks of HPAI H5N1 in domestic waterfowl in ´ Bacs-Kiskun County. On January 21 and January 26, 2007, the DFCSAH detected two outbreaks of HPAI H5N1 in commercial flocks of ´ geese in Csongrad County. To prevent the introduction of HPAI H5N1 into the United States, APHIS ´ designated Hungary’s counties of Bacs´ Kiskun and Csongrad as regions where HPAI was considered to exist and prohibited the importation of birds, poultry, and poultry products from these regions into the United States. In a document titled ‘‘APHIS’ Evaluation of the Status of High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza H5N1 Virus in Hungary’’ (November 2008), we present the results of our evaluation of the status of HPAI H5N1 in domestic poultry in Hungary in light of the actions taken by Hungarian authorities since the outbreaks, and document our analysis of the risk associated with allowing the importation of birds, poultry, and poultry products from ´ ´ Bacs-Kiskun and Csongrad Counties, Hungary, into the United States in the aftermath of the outbreaks. We based our evaluation of the HPAI H5N1 status of the two counties in Hungary on the following critical factors: • Hungary had been free of outbreaks of the H5N1 subtype in its domestic poultry for at least 3 months as a result of effective control measures taken by a competent veterinary infrastructure; • HPAI H5N1 was a notifiable disease ´ ´ in Bacs-Kiskun and Csongrad Counties at the time of the outbreaks; • Hungary had an ongoing disease awareness program in place at the time of the outbreaks; E:\FR\FM\15JNN1.SGM 15JNN1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 74, Number 113 (Monday, June 15, 2009)]
[Notices]
[Pages 28214-28217]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E9-14045]


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DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

Forest Service


Proposed Amendment of Rogue River, Umpqua and Winema National 
Forest (NF) Land and Resource Management Plans for the Pacific 
Connector Gas Pipeline

AGENCY: Forest Service, USDA.

ACTION: Notice of intent to prepare an environmental impact statement 
for Land and Resource Management Plan amendments.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: The USDA Forest Service is proposing to amend the Land and 
Resource Management Plans (LRMP) of the Rogue River (administered as 
the Rogue River-Siskiyou NF), Umpqua, and Winema (administered as the 
Fremont-Winema NF) National Forests to make provision for the proposed 
Pacific Connector Gas Pipeline (PCGP). The Federal Energy Regulatory 
Commission (FERC) is the lead agency for the environmental analysis of 
the construction and operation of the proposed natural gas pipeline 
(FERC Docket No. CP07-441-000). The FERC has prepared an environmental 
impact statement (EIS) that discusses the environmental impacts that 
could result from the construction and operation of the PCGP. FERC 
issued the FEIS for the PCGP on May 1, 2009.
    The U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service is a Cooperating 
Agency with the FERC in environmental analysis and preparation of the 
EIS for the PCGP. Certain features of the PCGP Project could not be 
made consistent with the LRMPs of the Rogue River, Umpqua and Winema 
National Forests because of the nature of pipeline construction. 
Therefore, in order to comply with the requirements of the National 
Forest Management Act (NFMA) the Forest Service must amend these LRMPs 
to make provision for the PCGP.

DATES: Comments concerning the scope of the analysis must be received 
by 30 days from the date this notice is published in the Federal 
Register. The draft environmental impact statement for amendment of 
forest plans is expected to be published in August, 2009 and the final 
environmental impact statement is expected in December, 2009.

ADDRESSES: Send written comments to: Pam Sichting, Umpqua National 
Forest, 2900 NW. Stewart Parkway, Roseburg, OR 97471. Comments may also 
be sent via e-mail to: comments-pacificnorthwest-umpqua@fs.fed.us, or 
via facsimile to 541-957-3495. Comments may be hand-delivered to the 
above address Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. till 4:30 p.m., 
excluding legal holidays.
    Comments received in response to this solicitation, including names 
and addresses of those who comment, will be part of the public record 
for this proposed action. Comments submitted anonymously will be 
accepted and considered; however, anonymous comments will not provide 
the respondent with standing to appeal the subsequent decision.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Pam Sichting at 541-957-3342 or by e-
mail at psichting@fs.fed.us. Individuals who use telecommunication 
devices for the deaf (TDD) may call the Federal Information Relay 
Service (FIRS) at 1-800-877-8339 between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., Eastern 
Time, Monday through Friday.
    Information concerning the construction and operation of the PCGP 
is contained in the FERC Jordon Cove-Pacific Connector Gas Pipeline 
Project Final Environmental Impact Statement. Also information about 
the Project is available from the FERC 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, 
click on ``General Search,'' and enter the docket number (CP07-441-000) 
excluding the last three digits in the Docket. For assistance, please 
contact FERC Online Support at FercOnlineSupport@ferc.gov or toll free 
at 1-866-208-3676, or for TTY, contact (202) 502-8659. The

[[Page 28215]]

eLibrary link on the FERC Internet Web site also provides access to the 
texts of final documents issued by the Commission, such as Orders, 
notices, and rule makings.
    Finally, PCGP has established a Web site for this project at https://www.pacificconnectorgp.com/. The Web site includes a project overview, 
timeline, safety and environmental information, and answers to 
frequently asked questions. You can also request additional information 
by e-mailing PCGP at pacificconnector@williams.com or by phone at 866-
227-9249.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Purpose and Need for Action

    Jordon Cove--Pacific Connector LP (Company) has proposed to 
construct a 36 inch natural gas pipeline from a liquified natural gas 
terminal at Coos Bay, Oregon, to an interstate gas transmission 
pipeline at Malin, Oregon. The PCGP will provide natural gas to 
southern Oregon, the Willamette Valley, California and Nevada. The 
Company submitted its application for the Pacific Connector Gas 
Pipeline (PCGP) project to the FERC on September 4, 2007. The 
applications were noticed in the Federal Register on September 13, 
2007. The FERC authorizes the construction and operation of natural gas 
pipelines upon its determination that the pipeline fulfills a public 
need. The PCGP is proposed to cross the Rogue River, Umpqua and Winema 
National Forests on its route between Coos Bay and Malin, Oregon. 
Transmission of natural gas is a legitimate use of public land 
consistent with the Natural Gas Act, the Energy Policy Act of 2005 and 
the Forest Service's National Strategic Plan, 2007-2012.
    A Notice of Intent (NOI) was issued by the FERC for construction 
and operation of the PCGP on June 23, 2006. Subsequently, a Draft 
Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) was made available to the public 
on August 29, 2008. The public comment period on the DEIS closed on 
December 4, 2008. The FERC, as lead Federal agency, issued the Jordan 
Cove-Pacific Connector Gas Pipeline Final Environmental Impact 
Statement (FEIS) on May 1, 2009. For portions of the proposed PCGP that 
cross National Forest System lands, the Forest Service was a 
cooperating agency with the FERC in preparing the EIS for the Project. 
The FERC will use this FEIS to determine whether to issue a Certificate 
of Public Convenience and Necessity (Certificate). The Certificate 
authorizes construction and operation of the PCGP.
    The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) issues and administers natural 
gas pipeline Right of Way Grants across all Federal lands, including 
the Forest Service, under the Mineral Leasing Act. The PCGP must have a 
Right of Way Grant to occupy any Federal lands in addition to the 
FERC's Certificate. To issue a Right of Way Grant across NFS lands, the 
BLM must obtain the consent of the Forest Service.
    The National Forest Management Act (NFMA) requires all projects or 
activities on a given National Forest to be consistent with that 
Forest's LRMP. Certain features of this project could not be made 
consistent with the LRMPs of the Rogue River, Umpqua and Winema 
National Forests because of the nature of pipeline construction. 
Therefore, the Forest Service must amend these LRMPs in order to comply 
with the requirements of NFMA prior to consenting to the BLM's issuance 
of a Right of Way Grant. This Notice of Intent is for preparation of an 
EIS by the Forest Service that will consider and disclose the 
significance of these proposed amendments pursuant to 36 CFR 
219.10(f)(1982 Version). The issue of whether a plan amendment is 
significant is guided by several factors, including the timing and 
duration of the proposed change, the location and size of the project, 
and how the proposed change may alter multiple-use goals and objectives 
for long-term land and resource management. In this analysis of 
significance, the Forest Service will rely on the FERC EIS for 
consideration of environmental consequences of construction and 
operation of the PCGP. These amendments of Forest Plans will only be 
implemented if the FERC authorizes the PCGP.

Proposed Action

    This Proposed Action is to amend the LRMPs of the Rogue River, 
Umpqua and Winema National Forests to make provision for the PCGP.
    Rogue River NF LRMP--The Forest Service proposes to amend the Rogue 
River NF LRMP as follows:
     By establishing a Forest Plan objective that states: While 
considering other multiple use values, the Forest shall facilitate and 
make provision for energy transmission via the Pacific Connector Gas 
Pipeline consistent with the Energy Policy Act of 2005, the Mineral 
Leasing Act, the Natural Gas Act, the Multiple Use Sustained Yield Act 
and the National Forest Management Act.
     By changing the designation of approximately 600 acres 
from the matrix land allocation to the LSR 227 land allocation. 
Standards and Guidelines for Developments in Late Successional Reserves 
(LSRs) require that new developments that may adversely affect LSRs be 
minimized or mitigated (see Standards and Guidelines for Management of 
Habitat for Late-Successional and Old-Growth Related Species Within the 
Range of the Northern Spotted Owl, Page C-17). This change in land 
allocation is proposed to mitigate the potential adverse impact of the 
PCGP on LSR 227 on the Rogue River National Forest. This amendment 
would change future management direction for the lands transferred from 
matrix to LSR. Additional mitigations for impacts to LSRs are included 
in the FERC FEIS in Appendix L for the PCGP.
     By changing the Visual Quality Objective (VQO) in the 
vicinity where the 75 foot wide PCGP Right of Way crosses the Big Elk 
Road from Foreground Retention to Foreground Partial Retention and 
allowing ten to fifteen years for amended visual quality objectives to 
be attained. Existing Standards and Guidelines for VQO in foreground 
retention where the PCGP crosses the Big Elk Road require VQO's be met 
within 1 year of completion of the project and that management 
activities not be visually evident (Rogue River NF LRMP, Page 4-72, 
Management Area 6). This amendment applies only to the Right of Way of 
the PCGP in the vicinity of the Big Elk Road and does not change future 
management direction for any other project. Additional mitigations for 
impacts to scenic resources are included in the PCGP FEIS Appendix L.
     By changing the Visual Quality Objective in the vicinity 
where the 75 foot wide PCGP Right of Way crosses the Pacific Crest 
Trail (PCT) from Foreground Partial Retention to modification and 
allowing ten to fifteen years for amended visual quality objectives to 
be attained. Existing Standards and Guidelines for Visual Quality 
Objectives in Foreground Partial Retention (Rogue River NF LRMP, Page 
4-86, Management Area 7) where the PCGP crosses the Pacific Crest 
Trail, requires visual mitigations to meet the stated visual quality 
objective within 2 years of the completion of the project and that 
management activities be visually subordinate to the landscape. This 
amendment applies only to the Right of Way of the PCGP in the vicinity 
of the Pacific Crest Trail and does not change future management 
direction. Additional mitigations for visual impacts are included in 
the PCGP FEIS Appendix L.
     By waiving restrictions on detrimental soil conditions 
from displacement and compaction within the Right of Way of the PCGP in 
all management areas. Standards and

[[Page 28216]]

Guidelines for detrimental soil impacts in all affected management 
areas require that no more than 10% of the activity area be 
detrimentally compacted, puddled or displaced upon completion of a 
project. Additional mitigations for detrimental soil conditions are in 
the PCGP FEIS in Appendix L.
     By allowing the PCGP to cross the Restricted Riparian land 
allocation. This potentially affects two perennial streams and 
approximately 0.7 of an acre of the Restricted Riparian land 
allocation. Standards and Guidelines for the Restricted Riparian land 
allocation (Rogue River NF LRMP, page 4-308, Management Area 26) states 
that transmission corridors should be located outside of this 
management area. This amendment applies only to the project area of the 
PCGP and does not change future management direction. Mitigations for 
potential adverse impacts to the Restricted Riparian land allocation 
are included in the PCGP FEIS in Appendix L.
    Umpqua NF LRMP--The Forest Service proposes to amend the Umpqua NF 
LRMP as follows:
     By changing the designation of approximately 585 acres 
from the matrix land allocation to the LSR 223 land allocation. 
Standards and Guidelines for Developments in Late Successional Reserves 
(LSRs) require that new developments that may adversely affect LSRs be 
minimized or mitigated (see Standards and Guidelines for Management of 
Habitat for Late-Successional and Old-Growth Related Species Within the 
Range of the Northern Spotted Owl, Page C-17). This change in land 
allocation is proposed to mitigate the potential adverse impact of the 
PCGP on LSR 223 on the Umpqua NF. This amendment would change future 
management direction for the lands transferred from matrix to LSR. 
Additional mitigations for impacts to LSRs are included in the PCGP 
FEIS in Appendix L.
     By amending Standards and Guidelines for Fisheries (Umpqua 
NF LRMP, page IV-33, Forest-Wide) to allow the removal of effective 
shading vegetation where perennial streams are crossed by the PCGP. 
This potentially affects approximately 5 perennial streams by removing 
an estimated 3 acres of effective shade. This amendment applies only to 
the 75 foot right of way where the PCGP crosses perennial streams and 
does not change future management direction at any other location. 
Mitigations for impacts on fisheries are included in the FERC FEIS for 
the PCGP in Appendix L.
     By waiving restrictions on detrimental soil conditions 
from displacement and compaction within the Right of Way of the PCGP. 
Standards and Guidelines for Soils (Umpqua NF LRMP, page IV-67) 
requires that not more than 20% of the project area should have 
detrimental compaction, displacement or puddling after completion of 
the project. This amendment applies only to the project area of the 
PCGP and does not change future management direction. Mitigations for 
soils with detrimental conditions are included in the PCGP FEIS in 
Appendix L.
     By amending prescriptions C2-I, C2-II, C2-III, C2-IV, C2-
V, and C2-VI (Umpqua NF LRMP IV-169-182) to allow the PCGP to cross 
Riparian Areas and run parallel to streams. This potentially affects 
approximately 0.8 of an acre of Riparian Reserve. This amendment 
applies only to the project area of the PCGP and does not change future 
management direction. Mitigations for potential adverse impacts from 
Project stream crossings are included in the FEIS for the PCGP in 
Appendix L.
    Winema National Forest--The Forest Service proposes to amend the 
Winema NF LRMP as follows:
     By amending Standards and Guidelines for Management Area 3 
(Winema NF LRMP, page 4-103-4, Lands) to allow the 95 foot wide PCGP 
corridor in MA-3 from the Forest Boundary to the Clover Creek Road 
corridor. This corridor is approximately 1 mile long and affects and 
potentially affects approximately 11 acres. This amendment applies only 
to the project area of the PCGP and does not change future management 
direction. Mitigations for potential adverse impacts to scenic values 
are included in the FEIS for the PCGP in Appendix L.
     By allowing more time to achieve Visual Quality Objectives 
(VQO) in the vicinity where the 75 foot wide PCGP corridor crosses the 
Dead Indian Memorial Highway. Standards and Guidelines for Scenic 
Management, Foreground Retention (Winema NF LRMP, page 4-103, MA 3A, 
Foreground Retention) require visual quality objectives for a given 
location be achieved within 1 year of completion of the project. The 
Forest Service proposes to allow a longer time frame to meet the 
specified VQO at this location. This amendment applies only to the 
project area of the PCGP and does not change future management 
direction. Mitigations for visual impacts are included in the FEIS for 
the PCGP in Appendix L.
     By allowing more time to meet Visual Quality Objectives 
(VQO) for Scenic Management, Foreground Partial Retention where the 
PCGP is in the vicinity of the Clover Creek Road from approximate 
pipeline milepost 170 to 175. This potentially affects approximately 50 
acres where it will take additional time to meet the Partial Retention 
standard. Standards and Guidelines for Foreground Partial Retention 
(Winema NF LRMP, page 4-107, MA 3B) requires that visual quality 
objectives be met within 1 year of completion of a project. The Forest 
Service proposes to allow a longer time frame to meet the amended VQO 
at this location. This amendment applies only to the project area of 
the PCGP in the vicinity of the Clover Creek Road and does not change 
future management direction. Mitigations for potential adverse impacts 
to scenic values are included in the FEIS for the PCGP in Appendix L.
     By waiving restrictions on detrimental soil conditions 
from displacement and compaction within the Right of Way of the PCGP in 
all management areas. Standards and Guidelines for detrimental soil 
impacts (Winema NF LRMP, page 4-73, 12-5) in all affected management 
areas require that no more than 20% of the activity area be 
detrimentally compacted, puddled or displaced upon completion of a 
project. Additional mitigations for detrimental soil conditions are in 
the PCGP FEIS in Appendix L.
     By waiving restrictions on detrimental soil conditions 
from displacement and compaction within the 75 foot wide Right of Way 
of the PCGP within Management Area 8 Riparian Area. This potentially 
affects approximately 0.5 miles of Management Area 8 Riparian Area 
totaling an estimated 9.6 acres. Standards and Guidelines for Soil and 
Water, Management Area 8 (Winema NF LRMP, page 4-137, 2) require that 
not more than 10% of the total riparian zone in an activity area be in 
a detrimental soil condition upon the completion of a project. This 
amendment applies only to the project area of the PCGP and does not 
change future management direction. Mitigations for potential adverse 
soil impacts are included in the PCGP FEIS in Appendix L.

Lead Agency

    The Forest Service is the Lead Agency for amendments of Forest 
Plans.

Responsible Official

    The Responsible Officials for amendments of the Rogue River, Umpqua 
and Winema LRMPs are respectively Forest Supervisors, Scott D. Conroy, 
Clifford J. Dils and Karen Shimamoto.

[[Page 28217]]

Nature of Decision To Be Made

    The nature of the decision to be made is whether the respective 
LRMPs would be amended if the FERC authorizes the PCGP.

Scoping Process

    This notice of intent initiates the scoping process, which guides 
the development of the environmental impact statement. With this NOI, 
the Forest Service is requesting public comments on the proposed 
amendments of the Rogue River, Umpqua and Winema NF LRMPs.
    It is important that reviewers provide their comments at such times 
and in such manner that they are useful to the agency's preparation of 
the environmental impact statement. Therefore, comments should be 
provided prior to the close of the comment period and should clearly 
articulate the reviewer's concerns and contentions. The submission of 
timely and specific comments can affect a reviewer's ability to 
participate in subsequent administrative appeal or judicial review.

    Dated: June 8, 2009.
Clifford J. Dils,
Forest Supervisor.
[FR Doc. E9-14045 Filed 6-12-09; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3410-11-P
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