Department of Agriculture July 10, 2009 – Federal Register Recent Federal Regulation Documents

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.

Pursuant to Section 102(2) (C) of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969; the Council of Environmental Quality Guidelines (40 CFR part 1500); and the Natural Resources Conservation Service Guidelines (7 CFR part 650): The Natural Resources Conservation Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, gives notice that an environmental impact statement is being prepared for Pocasset River Watershed, Providence County, Rhode Island.

The Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, Naches Ranger District, proposes to charge new fees at four recreation sites. A $5.00 per vehicle per night charge at Ponderosa Camp, Lost Meadow, Longmire Meadow and Long Meadow camp areas in the Little Naches drainage is under consideration. The fee would not apply to any towed vehicle(s). Fees are assessed based on the level of amenities and services provided, cost of operation and maintenance, market assessment, and public comment. Revenue generated would be used for operation and maintenance of existing facilities at the sites, increased services, and potential future improvements. The fees listed are only proposed and will be determined upon further analysis and public comment.