Department of Agriculture July 6, 2005 – Federal Register Recent Federal Regulation Documents

In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, this notice announces the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service's intention to request an extension of approval of an information collection in support of regulations to prevent the introduction of gypsy moth into noninfested areas of the United States from Canada.

Notice is hereby given that the USDA, Forest Service, Angeles National Forest (ANF) and the Palmdale Water District (District) will prepare a joint Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and Environmental Impact Report (EIR), referred to as an EIR/EIS, that will evaluate the proposed project and alternatives to the proposed project. As the project proponent, the District proposes to excavate sediment from the Littlerock Reservoir and construct a grade control structure (proposed project) located on Littlerock Creek, in Los Angeles County, California. The proposed grade control structure would be located at, or just downstream of, River Station 4,235 (also know as Rocky Point). the proposed project would: Remove excess Reservoir sediment that has accumulated over time Restore the water storage and flood control capacity of the Reservoir; and Prevent sediment loss and headcutting of the stream channel upstream of Rocky Point to prevent the incidental ``take'' of arroyo toad (Bufo californicus), a federally endangered species.

The Opal Creek Scenic Recreation Area Advisory Council is participating in a field tour on July 23, 2005. The field trip is scheduled to begin at 10 a.m., and will conclude at approximately 3:30 p.m. Participants will meet at Oregon Department of Forestry Office (ODF) located on N. Fork Road and Highway 22 in Mehema, Oregon. Attendance by the public must be arranged one week in advance with the Designated Federal Official listed below. The Opal Creek Wilderness and Opal Creek Scenic Recreation Area Act of 1996 (Opal Creek Act) (Pub. L. 104-208) directed the Secretary of Agriculture to establish the Opal Creek Scenic Recreation Area Advisory Council. The Advisory Council is comprised of thirteen members representing state, county and city governments, and representatives of various organizations, which include mining industry, environmental organizations, inholders in Opal Creek Scenic Recreation Area, economic development, Indian tribes, adjacent landowners and recreation interests. The council provides advice to the Secretary of Agriculture on preparation of a comprehensive Opal Creek Management Plan for the SRA, and consults on a periodic and regular basis on the management of the area. Tentative itinerary includes visiting and discussing current issues at Pearl Creek Guard Station about restoration, popular dispersed sites and Three Pools about use issues, and SRA entrance about transportation planning and signing. A public comment period is tentatively scheduled to begin at 3 p.m. at the ODF office. Time allotted for individual presentations will be limited to 3 minutes. Written comments are encouraged, particularly if the material cannot be presented within the time limits of the comment period. Written comments may be submitted prior to the July 23rd by sending them to Designated Federal Official Paul Matter at the address given below.