Department of the Interior December 2007 – Federal Register Recent Federal Regulation Documents

Notice of Public Meeting, North Slope Science Initiative, Science Technical Advisory Panel
Document Number: E7-25393
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-31
Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Land Management Bureau
In accordance with the Federal Land Policy and Management Act (FLPMA) and the Federal Advisory Committee Act of 1972 (FACA), the U.S. Department of the Interior, North Slope Science Initiative (NSSI) Science Technical Advisory Panel (STAP) will meet as indicated below:
Notice of Proposed Reinstatement of Terminated Oil and Gas Lease
Document Number: E7-25387
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-31
Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Land Management Bureau
Under the provisions of Public Law 97-451, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) received a petition for reinstatement of the oil and gas leases, ARES 52198 and ARES 52200 located in Scott and Montgomery County, Ouachita N.F., Arkansas, and ARES 53624 located in Yell County, Ouachita N.F., Arkansas. The petition was filed on time and was accompanied by all rentals due since the date the leases terminated under law.
Arizona: Notice of Realty Action; Recreation and Public Purposes (R&PP) Act Classification
Document Number: E7-25384
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-31
Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Land Management Bureau
The following public lands in Yuma County, Arizona, have been examined by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and found suitable for classification for lease or conveyance to the Yuma County Free Library District (AZA 33391) and Yuma County (AZA 34206) under the provisions of the Recreation and Public Purposes (R&PP) Act, as amended, 43 U.S.C. 869 et seq., and under Section 7 of the Taylor Grazing Act, 43 U.S.C. 315(f), and Executive Order No. 6910.
Notice of Proposed Reinstatement of Terminated Oil and Gas Lease SDM 90990
Document Number: E7-25382
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-31
Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Land Management Bureau
Per 30 U.S.C. 188(d), GPE Energy, Inc. and Spyglass Cedar Creek LP timely filed a petition for reinstatement of oil and gas lease SDM 90990, Harding County, South Dakota. The lessee paid the required rental accruing from the date of termination. No leases were issued that affect these lands. The lessee agrees to new lease terms for rentals and royalties of $10 per acre and 16-2/3 percent or 4 percentages above the existing competitive royalty rate. The lessee paid the $500 administration fee for the reinstatement of the lease and $163 cost for publishing this Notice. The lessee met the requirements for reinstatement of the lease per Sec. 31(d) and (e) of the Mineral Leasing Act of 1920 (30 U.S.C. 188). We are proposing to reinstate the lease, effective the date of termination subject to: The original terms and conditions of the lease; The increased rental of $10 per acre; The increased royalty of 16 2/3 percent or 4 percentages above the existing competitive royalty rate; and The $163 cost of publishing this Notice.
Notice of Availability of a Draft Environmental Assessment / Habitat Conservation Plan and Receipt of Application for Issuance of a Permit for Incidental Take of the Golden-Cheeked Warbler and Five Karst Invertebrates During the Construction and Operation of a Residential, Commercial, and/or Retail Development on Portions of the Approximately 70-acre GDF Property in Austin, Travis County, TX
Document Number: E7-25381
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-31
Agency: Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior
GDF Realty Investments, Ltd., and Purcell Investments, L.P., (Applicants) have applied for an incidental take permit (TE-171255) pursuant to section 10(a)(1)(B) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act) for the golden-cheeked warbler (Dendroica chrysoparia) and five karst invertebrates: Tooth Cave spider (Neoleptoneta myopica), Bone Cave harvestman (Texella reyesi), Tooth Cave pseudoscorpion (Tartarocreagris texana), Kretschmarr Cave mold beetle (Texamaurops reddelli), and Tooth Cave ground beetle (Rhadine persephone). The proposed take would occur as the result of construction and operation of a residential, commercial, and/or retail development with associated streets and utilities on portions of the approximately 70-acre GDF property in Austin, Travis County, Texas.
Reaffirmation of Statement of Findings: Southern Arizona Water Rights Settlement Amendments Act of 2004
Document Number: E7-25290
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-28
Agency: Office of the Secretary, Department of the Interior
The Secretary of the Interior (Secretary) is publishing this notice in accordance with section 302(b) of the Southern Arizona Water Rights Settlement Amendments Act of 2004 (Settlement Amendments Act), Public Law 108-451, 118 Stat. 3536, 3571-72, and H.R. 3739 (Public Law Number forthcoming). Congress enacted the Settlement Amendments Act as Title III of the Arizona Water Settlements Act (AWSA), Public Law 108- 451, 118 Stat. 3478 et seq. The publication of this notice causes the amendments to the Southern Arizona Water Rights Settlement Act of 1982 (1982 Act), Public Law 97-293, 96 Stat. 1274 (as amended), made by the Settlement Amendments Act to take effect.
Human Capital, Performance and Partnerships; National Invasive Species Council
Document Number: E7-25262
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-28
Agency: Office of the Secretary, Department of the Interior
Pursuant to Executive Order 13112, the National Invasive Species Council (NISC) is announcing the availability of the draft of the 2008-2012 National Invasive Species Management Plan for a 45-day public comment period. The Order established NISC as an inter-agency council to prevent and control invasive species in order to minimize their economic, ecological and human health impacts. The Council, which is co-chaired by the Secretaries of Agriculture, Commerce and the Interior also includes the Departments of State, Defense, Transportation, Homeland Security, Treasury, Health and Human Services, as well as the Environmental Protection Agency, the U.S. Trade Representative, the U.S. Agency for International Development and the National Aeronautics and Atmospheric Administration. The Plan is intended to address invasive species in the areas of prevention, early detection and rapid response, control, restoration and organizational collaboration. Text of the 2008-2012 National Invasive Species Management Plan is available in PDF format at www.invasivespeciesinfo.gov.
Extension of Approved Information Collection, OMB Control Number 1004-0009
Document Number: E7-25217
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-28
Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Land Management Bureau
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has submitted an Information Collection Request (ICR) to OMB for review and approval. The ICR is scheduled to expire on December 31, 2007. The BLM may not conduct or sponsor and a person is not required to respond to a collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number. However, under OMB regulations, the BLM may continue to conduct or sponsor this information collection while it is pending at OMB. On June 21, 2006, the BLM published a notice in the Federal Register (71 FR 35698) requesting comment on this information collection. The comment period ended on August 21, 2006. The BLM received no comments. You may obtain copies of the collection of information and related forms and explanatory material by contacting the BLM Information Collection Clearance Officer at the telephone number listed in the ADDRESSES section below.
Notice of Availability of a Revised Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement for the Pinedale Anticline Oil and Gas Exploration and Development Project, Sublette County, WY
Document Number: E7-24955
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-28
Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Land Management Bureau
In accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA, 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) of 1969, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) announces the availability of a Revised Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement for long-term development of natural gas resources in the Pinedale Anticline Project Area (PAPA). The BLM released a Draft Supplemental Impact Statement (DSEIS) on December 15, 2006. The comment period for the DSEIS closed on April 6, 2007. Based upon public comments, BLM is reissuing a Revised Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (RDSEIS) to include the analysis of two additional alternatives. The RDSEIS includes the three alternatives that were analyzed in the original draft: the no action, proposed action, and the BLM preferred alternative. It also includes two additional alternatives: One based upon the comments BLM received from oil and gas proponents and the State of Wyoming Game and Fish; and an additional alternative which analyzes full field development with current wildlife timing stipulations in place. The first added alternative analyzes the effects of continued development activities during winter under relaxed wildlife timing stipulations within a core area of the PAPA. In addition, leases on the East and West flanks of the PAPA are proposed to be placed in suspense to offset affected winter habitat in the core development areas. A wildlife matrix and mitigation fund has been incorporated into this alternative to address on and off-site mitigation. The second added alternative analyzes the effects of full field development with wildlife timing stipulations carried forward from the 2000 PAPA ROD and subsequent PAPA decision documents. This alternative would allow for the development of 4399 wells, the level of development currently considered necessary to effectively recover the oil and gas resources. In addition to the two new alternatives, the RDSEIS will analyze pace of development. This analysis will show levels of impact associated with the number of rigs operating at any one time in the PAPA.
Notice of Proposed Withdrawal and Transfer of Jurisdiction, and Opportunity for Public Meeting; California
Document Number: E7-25110
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-27
Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Land Management Bureau
The Secretary of the Interior proposes to withdraw approximately 472 acres of Federal lands from surface entry and mining and transfer jurisdiction to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) to be managed as part of the Sacramento River National Wildlife Refuge (Refuge). This notice segregates the lands for up to 2 years from surface entry and mining while various studies and analyses are made to support a final decision on the withdrawal application. The lands will remain open to mineral and geothermal leasing and mineral material sales.
Notice and Agenda for Meeting of the Royalty Policy Committee
Document Number: E7-25081
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-27
Agency: Department of the Interior, Minerals Management Service
This notice announces the January 17, 2008, meeting of the Royalty Policy Committee (RPC). Agenda items for the meeting of the RPC will include remarks from the Director, MMS, and the Associate Director, Minerals Revenue Management (MRM), as well as updates from the Subcommittee on Royalty Management and the Coal and Indian Oil Valuation Subcommittees. The RPC membership includes representation from states, Indian Tribes, various mineral interests, the public-at- large (with knowledge and interest in royalty issues), and other Federal departments.
Receipt of Applications for Permit
Document Number: E7-25064
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-27
Agency: Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior
The public is invited to comment on the following applications to conduct certain activities with endangered species and/or marine mammals.
Receipt of Applications for Permit
Document Number: E7-25061
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-27
Agency: Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior
The public is invited to comment on the following applications to conduct certain activities with endangered species and/or marine mammals.
Notice of Public Meeting: Northeast California Resource Advisory Council
Document Number: E7-25034
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-27
Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Land Management Bureau
In accordance with the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (FLPMA), and the Federal Advisory Committee Act of 1972 (FACA), the U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Northeast California Resource Advisory Council will meet as indicated below.
Notice of Public Meetings, Southwest Colorado Resource Advisory Council Meetings
Document Number: E7-25026
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-27
Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Land Management Bureau
Bureau of Land Management published notice in the Federal Register, Dec. 13, 2007, listing an incorrect meeting date.
Notice Public Meetings: Mojave-Southern Great Basin Resource Advisory Council, Nevada
Document Number: E7-25024
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-27
Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Land Management Bureau
In accordance with the Federal Land Policy and Management Act (FLPMA) and the Federal Advisory Committee Act of 1972 (FACA), the U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Mojave- Southern Great Basin Resource Advisory Council (RAC), will meet as indicated below.
Eastern States: Filing of Plat of Survey
Document Number: E7-25019
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-27
Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Land Management Bureau
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) will file the plat of survey of the lands described below in the BLM-Eastern States, Springfield, Virginia, 30 calendar days from the date of publication in the Federal Register.
Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Reopening of Comment Period for Draft Recovery Crediting Guidance
Document Number: E7-24971
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-27
Agency: Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior
We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), announce the reopening of a comment period on our draft recovery crediting guidance for an additional 60 days. We solicit comment from all interested parties on the contents of the draft guidance and the likely effects of its implementation.
Subsistence Management Regulations for Public Lands in Alaska, Subpart C and Subpart D-2007-08 Subsistence Taking of Wildlife Regulations; 2007-08 Subsistence Taking of Fish on the Kenai Peninsula Regulations
Document Number: E7-24571
Type: Rule
Date: 2007-12-27
Agency: Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior
This final rule establishes regulations for seasons, harvest limits, methods, and means related to taking of wildlife for subsistence uses in Alaska during the 2007-08 regulatory year. The rulemaking is necessary because the regulations governing the subsistence harvest of wildlife in Alaska are subject to an annual public review cycle. This rulemaking replaces the wildlife regulations that expired on June 30, 2007. This rule also amends the regulations that establish which Alaska residents are eligible to take specific species for subsistence uses. In addition, this rule revises the regulations for fishing seasons, harvest limits, methods and means related to taking of fish on the Kenai Peninsula for subsistence uses during the 2007-08 regulatory year. This rule also amends the customary and traditional use determinations of the Federal Subsistence Board.
Notice of Realty Action: Segregation for a Direct Sale of Public Land in Lander County, Nevada
Document Number: 07-6196
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-27
Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Land Management Bureau
A parcel of public land of approximately 2.65 acres in Lander County, Nevada is being proposed for sale under the provisions of section 203 of the Federal Land Policy Management Act of 1976 (FLPMA) (43 U.S.C. 1713), at no less than the appraised fair market value to resolve unauthorized use of the public lands.
Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Collection; Comment Request
Document Number: E7-24928
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-26
Agency: Department of the Interior, Minerals Management Service
To comply with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (PRA), MMS is inviting comments on a collection of information that we will submit to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review and approval. The information collection request (ICR) concerns the paperwork requirements in the regulations under 30 CFR 250, Subpart M, ``Unitization.''
WYOMING: Notice of Proposed Reinstatement of Terminated Oil and Gas Lease
Document Number: E7-24926
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-26
Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Land Management Bureau
Under the provisions of 30 U.S.C. 188(d) and (e), and 43 CFR 3108.2-3(a) and (b)(1), the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) received a petition for reinstatement from Nerd Gas Company, LLC for competitive oil and gas lease WYW157577 for land in Uinta County, Wyoming. The petition was filed on time and was accompanied by all the rentals due since the date the lease terminated under the law.
WYOMING: Notice of Proposed Reinstatement of Terminated Oil and Gas Lease
Document Number: E7-24925
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-26
Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Land Management Bureau
Under the provisions of 30 U.S.C. 188(d) and (e), and 43 CFR 3108.2-3(a) and (b)(1), the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) received a petition for reinstatement from Gasconade Oil Co. for competitive oil and gas lease WYW155501 for land in Lincoln County, Wyoming. The petition was filed on time and was accompanied by all the rentals due since the date the lease terminated under the law.
Fee Rate
Document Number: 07-6182
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-26
Agency: National Indian Gaming Commission, Department of the Interior
Notice is hereby given, pursuant to 25 CFR 514.1(a)(3), that the National Indian Gaming Commission has adopted final annual fee rates of 0.00% for tier 1 and 0.059% (.00059) for tier 2 for calendar year 2007. These rates shall apply to all assessable gross revenues from each gaming operation under the jurisdiction of the Commission. If a tribe has a certificate of self-regulation under 25 CFR part 518, the final fee rate on class II revenues for calendar year 2007 shall be one-half of the annual fee rate, which is 0.0295% (.000295).
Draft Site Progress Report to the World Heritage Committee for Yellowstone National Park
Document Number: 07-6147
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-26
Agency: Department of the Interior, National Park Service
Pursuant to the Decision adopted by the 27th Session of the World Heritage Committee (Document: WHC-03/27.COM/7A.12) accepted by the United States Government, the National Park Service (NPS) announces the publication for comment of a Draft Site Progress Report to the World Heritage Committee for Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, Idaho and Montana.
Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Designation of Critical Habitat for Arenaria ursina
Document Number: 07-6137
Type: Rule
Date: 2007-12-26
Agency: Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior
We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), are designating critical habitat for Arenaria ursina (Bear Valley sandwort), Castilleja cinerea (Ash-gray Indian paintbrush), and Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum (southern mountain wild- buckwheat) under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). In total, approximately 1,769 acres (ac) (722 hectares (ha)) of land fall within the boundaries of the critical habitat designations for these three species. Approximately 1,412 ac (571 ha) of Federal and private land are being designated as critical habitat for Arenaria ursina; approximately 1,769 ac (722 ha) of Federal, State, and private land are being designated as critical habitat for Castilleja cinerea; and approximately 904 ac (366 ha) of Federal and private land are being designated as critical habitat for Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum. All lands included in these final designations are in San Bernardino County, California. These final designations include an addition of a total of 258 ac (111 ha) from the total area included in the 2006 proposed designations for these species.
Environmental Impact Statement on Recreational Use of Off-Road Vehicles Along Nine Trails in the Nabesna Area of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve
Document Number: E7-24853
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-21
Agency: Department of the Interior, National Park Service
The National Park Service (NPS) is preparing an EIS on the recreational use of off-road vehicles (ORV) along nine trails in the Nabesna area of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve. The purpose of the EIS is to evaluate a range of alternatives for managing recreational off-road vehicle use on the following trails: Caribou Creek, Lost Creek, Trail Creek, Reeve Field, Boomerang Lake, Soda Lake, Suslota Lake, Copper Lake and Tanada Lake. The EIS will be used to guide the management of recreational ORV use on these trails in the Nabesna area of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve. It may also form the basis for either a special regulation to designate ORV routes and areas or a compatibility finding to issue permits for ORV use in accordance with current regulations. The EIS will assess potential environmental impacts associated with a range of reasonable alternatives for managing recreational ORV impacts on park resources and values such as soils, vegetation, wetlands, wildlife, visitor experience, scenic quality, cultural resources and subsistence opportunities. In addition to the No Action alternative, this EIS will evaluate a proposed action that would authorize recreational ORV use on trails that can be maintained to a standard that reduces or eliminates adverse impacts. Other alternatives include: authorizing recreational ORV use on some or all nine trails after making improvements to address degraded conditions along trail alignments, and not authorizing recreational ORV use on any trails. Public input is sought on this range of alternatives. This EIS is being prepared in accordance with the requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, as amended (42 U.S.C. 4331 et seq.), and its implementing regulations at 40 CFR part 1500. Scoping: The NPS requests input from federal and state agencies, local governments, private organizations, recreational users, and the public on the scope of issues to be addressed in this EIS. Scoping comments are being solicited. NPS representatives will be available to discuss issues, resource concerns and the planning process at public scoping meetings. Scoping meetings will be held in Anchorage, Fairbanks, Tok, Glennallen, and Slana, Alaska in early 2008. When public meetings have been scheduled, their dates, times, and locations will be announced in local newspapers and posted on the NPS Planning, Environment, and Public Comment (PEPC) Web site at https:// parkplanning.nps.gov/WRST. Before including your address, phone number, e-mail address, or other personal identifying information in your comment, you should be aware that your entire commentincluding your personal identifying informationmay be made publicly available at any time. While you can ask us to withhold your personal identifying information from public review, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to do so. We will always make submissions from organizations or businesses, and from individuals identifying themselves as representatives of or officials of organizations or businesses, available for public inspection in their entirety.
Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve Advisory Committee; Notice of Public Meeting
Document Number: E7-24845
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-21
Agency: Department of the Interior, National Park Service
Notice is hereby given that a meeting of the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve Advisory Committee (the Committee) will be held on Friday, February 8, 2008, at 9:30 a.m. at the Chase County Community Building, Swope Park, 1715 RD 210, Cottonwood Falls, Kansas. The primary purpose of the meeting will be to receive Committee input on the Environmental Assessment, General Management Plan Revision/Site Development Study for New Visitor Center, Administrative, and Maintenance Facilities and to discuss other current and future topics concerning the preserve. The meeting will be open to the public. Any person may file with the Committee a written statement concerning the matters to be discussed. Persons who wish to file a written statement or testify at the meeting or who want further information concerning the meeting may contact Superintendent Stephen T. Miller at (620) 273-6034.
Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park Advisory Commission; Notice of Public Meeting
Document Number: E7-24834
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-21
Agency: Department of the Interior, National Park Service
Notice is hereby given that a meeting of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park Advisory Commission will be held at 9:30 a.m., on Friday, January 18, 2008, at the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park Headquarters, 1850 Dual Highway, Hagerstown, Maryland 21740.
Draft General Management Plan and Environmental Impact Statement, Governors Island National Monument, New York, NY
Document Number: E7-24831
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-21
Agency: Department of the Interior, National Park Service
Pursuant to section 102(2)(C) of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (Pub. L. 91-190, as amended), the National Park Service announces the availability of the Draft General Management Plan and Environmental Impact Statement for Governors Island National Monument, New York. Consistent with National Park Service laws, regulations, and policies, and the purpose of the National Monument, the Draft GMP/EIS describes and analyzes four alternatives (A-D) to guide the management of the Monument over the next 15 to 20 years. The alternatives incorporate various management prescriptions to ensure protection, access and enjoyment of the park's resources. Alternative A is a no action alternative. Alternative D is the National Park Service's preferred alternative. Alternative D proposes the National Monument be developed as a Harbor Center with partners as a hub of activities and a jumping off point for visitors to explore New York Harbor. The Draft GMP/EIS evaluates potential environmental consequences of implementing the alternatives. Impact topics include the cultural, natural, and socioeconomic environments. This notice also announces that a public meeting will be held to solicit comments on the Draft GMP/EIS during the public review period. The date, time and location will be announced on the park's Web site https://www.nps.gov/ gois, in local papers and can also be obtained by calling 212.825.4162.
Alaska Native Claims Selection
Document Number: E7-24825
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-21
Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Land Management Bureau
As required by 43 CFR 2650.7(d), notice is hereby given that an appealable decision approving lands for conveyance pursuant to the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act will be issued to Chugach Alaska Corporation for lands located in the Prince William Sound, Alaska. Notice of the decision will also be published four times in the Anchorage Daily News.
Grassland Bypass Project Extension, Merced and Fresno Counties, CA
Document Number: E7-24822
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-21
Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Reclamation, Reclamation Bureau
The Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation) and the San Luis & Delta-Mendota Water Authority (Authority) are preparing a joint EIS/ EIR, pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act and the California Environmental Quality Act, to evaluate effects of extending the Grassland Bypass Project (Project) until December 31, 2019. The Project's use of the San Luis Drain (Drain) was only authorized until December 31, 2009. Additionally, subsurface drainage flows discharged to Mud Slough (North) were to have met water quality objectives by October 1, 2010, as required by the Regional Water Quality Control Board, Central Valley Region's (CVRWQCB) 1998 Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) for the Sacramento River and San Joaquin River Basins. However, difficulty in acquiring final funding has delayed the development and availability of treatment and disposal technology to reduce selenium loads to meet the 2010 deadline. It is anticipated that the extension to 2019 would allow enough time to acquire funds and develop feasible treatment technology to meet Basin Plan objectives and Waste Discharge Requirements. A scoping meeting will be held to solicit input on alternatives, concerns, and issues to be addressed in the EIS/EIR. Written comments may also be sent.
Notice of Availability of Draft Oil Shale and Tar Sands Resource Management Plan Amendments To Address Land Use Allocations in Colorado, Utah, and Wyoming and Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement
Document Number: E7-24811
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-21
Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Land Management Bureau
In accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA, 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) and the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (FLPMA, 43 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.), the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has prepared the Draft Oil Shale and Tar Sands Resource Management Plan Amendments To Address Land Use Allocations in Colorado, Utah, and Wyoming and Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement (PEIS). By this notice, the BLM is announcing the opening of a 90-day public review and comment period for the PEIS. The planning area lies within the Green River Formation in Colorado, Utah, and Wyoming.
Receipt of Applications for Permit
Document Number: E7-24772
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-21
Agency: Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior
The public is invited to comment on the following applications to conduct certain activities with endangered species and/or marine mammals.
Red River Valley Water Supply Project, ND
Document Number: E7-24590
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-21
Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Reclamation, Reclamation Bureau
Pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation) is notifying the public that Reclamation and the State of North Dakota have prepared a Final EIS for the Red River Valley Water Supply Project (RRVWSP). The purpose of the RRVWSP is to supply water to meet the water needs of the people and industries in the Red River Valley through the year 2050. The project's needs were established by Congress in the Dakota Water Resources Act of 2000. The project needs are defined as municipal, rural, and industrial supplies; water quality; aquatic environment; and water conservation measures. Reclamation published a Draft EIS on December 30, 2005. Following public comments on the Draft EIS and the addition of new information, Reclamation published a Supplemental Draft EIS on January 31, 2007. The comment period for the Draft EIS started on December 30, 2005 and continued through April 25, 2007 with review of the Supplemental Draft EIS. Revisions were made to the Final EIS to incorporate responses to comments on the Supplemental Draft EIS and new information. However, these revisions do not significantly impact the analysis or results presented in the Supplemental Draft EIS. The primary changes are inclusion of a final biological assessment prepared in compliance with the Endangered Species Act, an analysis of forecasted depletions and sedimentation on the Missouri River mainstem reservoir system, and a literature review of the best available climate change information. The Final EIS includes written responses to all public comments on both the DEIS and SDEIS. It also identifies the GDU Import to Sheyenne River Alternative as Reclamation's and the State of North Dakota's preferred alternative.
Northwest Area Water Supply Project, ND
Document Number: E7-24575
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-21
Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Reclamation, Reclamation Bureau
The Bureau of Reclamation published a notice in the Federal Register on March 6, 2006 (71 FR 11226) announcing the commencement of work under the National Environmental Policy Act on an environmental impact statement for the Northwest Area Water Supply Project (NAWS Project). We are now notifying the public that Reclamation has prepared a Draft EIS which is now available for review and comment. The Draft EIS provides information and analyses related to water treatment for the NAWS Project that would further minimize the transfer of potentially invasive species from the Missouri River basin into the Hudson Bay basin from potential treatment or conveyance failures. The Draft EIS analyzes the potential environmental, cultural, and socioeconomic effects of four alternatives.
Notice of Intent (NOI) To Prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and Notice of Public Meeting on a Federal Coal Lease-by-Application (LBA) in the Decertified Powder River Federal Coal Production Region, Wyoming
Document Number: E7-24428
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-21
Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Land Management Bureau
Pursuant to Section 102(2)(C) of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969, as amended, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Casper Field Office announces its intent to prepare an EIS on the potential impacts of the application to lease a tract of Federal coal. The EIS will be called the Hay Creek II Coal EIS. Under the provisions of 43 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 3425.1, the BLM received the following application to lease a maintenance tract of Federal coal in Campbell County, Wyoming: Kiewit Mining Properties Inc. applied for a maintenance coal lease for approximately 1448.873 acres (approximately 148 million tons of recoverable coal) in a maintenance tract of Federal coal adjacent to the Buckskin Mine. The tract, which is referred to as the Hay Creek II Tract, has been assigned case number WYW172684.
Electronic Payment of Fees for Outer Continental Shelf Activities
Document Number: 07-6173
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2007-12-21
Agency: Department of the Interior, Minerals Management Service
The MMS proposes that all lessees, operators, permittees, and rights-of-way holders pay all fees for processing plans, applications, and permits electronically. The MMS believes this proposed rule would aid industry in payment processing, and reduce payment processing errors. This proposed rule would improve MMS processing efficiency and facilitate the correction of industry payment errors. The MMS would not accept checks, money orders, or cashier's checks for payment of fees after the effective date of the final rule.
Royalty Relief for Deepwater Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) Oil and Gas Leases-Conforming Regulations to Court Decision
Document Number: 07-6161
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2007-12-21
Agency: Department of the Interior, Minerals Management Service
This proposed rule would amend 30 CFR parts 260 and 203 to conform the regulations to the decision of the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit in Santa Fe Snyder Corp., et al. v. Norton (the Decision). That decision found that certain provisions of the MMS regulations interpreting section 304 of the Deep Water Royalty Relief Act are contrary to the requirements of the statute.
Notice of Proposed Reinstatement of Terminated Oil and Gas Leases; Nevada
Document Number: E7-24696
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-20
Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Land Management Bureau
Pursuant to the provisions of 30 U.S.C. 188(d) and (e), and 43 CFR 3108.2-3(a) and (b)(1), a petition for reinstatement of oil and gas leases NVN-75674, NVN-75675, NVN-75676, NVN-75677 and NVN-75678 for lands in Elko County, Nevada, was timely filed and was accompanied by all the required rentals accruing from May 1, 2006, the date of termination. No valid lease has been issued affecting the lands. The lessee, Cedar Strat Corp. has agreed to new lease terms for rentals and royalties at rates of $5 per acre or fraction thereof and 16-2/3 percent, respectively. Cedar Strat Corp. has paid the required $500 administrative fee and has reimbursed the Bureau of Land Management for the cost of this Federal Register notice. Cedar Strat Corp. has met all the requirements for reinstatement of the lease as set out in sections 31(d) and (e) of the Mineral Leasing Act of 1920 (30 U.S.C. 188), and the Bureau of Land Management is proposing to reinstate the lease effective May 1, 2006, subject to the original terms and conditions of the lease and the increased rental and royalty rates cited above.
Notice of Intent To Amend the Grand Junction Resource Management Plan for the Gateway Area, Mesa and Montrose Counties, Colorado
Document Number: E7-24363
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-20
Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Land Management Bureau
Pursuant to section 102 of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 and section 202 of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976, the Bureau of Land Management, Grand Junction Field Office, is proposing to amend the Grand Junction Resource Management Plan (1987) to develop and design a recreation management plan and travel system for the Gateway Special Recreation Management Area. The planning area includes 198,000 acres of public land located near the community of Gateway, Colorado. The Gateway planning process was initiated in December of 2007. It has been determined that a plan amendment would be needed to consider the input of interested publics, user groups, and other agencies and to alter RMP allocations.
Establishment of Negotiated Rulemaking Advisory Committee for Off-Road Vehicle Management, Cape Hatteras National Seashore
Document Number: 07-6152
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2007-12-20
Agency: Department of the Interior, National Park Service
The Negotiated Rulemaking Advisory Committee for Off-Road Vehicle Management at Cape Hatteras National Seashore (Seashore) is established under the authority of 16 U.S.C. 1a-2(c), and in accordance with the Negotiated Rulemaking Act, 5 U.S.C. 561-570. The establishment of this Committee is in the public interest and supports the NPS in performing its duties and responsibilities under the NPS Organic Act, 16 U.S.C. 1 et seq.; Executive Order 11644, as amended by Executive Order 11989; 36 CFR 4.10; the Endangered Species Act, 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.; the enabling legislation for the Seashore, 16 U.S.C. 459 et seq.; and other legal authorities. An unusual combination of events in the preparation, approval, and transmission of this notice has resulted in the publication of this notice less than 15 days before the date of the first meeting and official date of establishment. The National Park Service has made extraordinary efforts to provide other forms of notification to all Committee members and to the public.
Flight 93 National Memorial Advisory Commission; Notice of Public Meeting
Document Number: 07-6117
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-20
Agency: Department of the Interior, National Park Service
Notice is given that a meeting of the Flight 93 Advisory Commission (the Commission) will be held on Saturday, February 2, 2008 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. (Eastern). The Commission will meet jointly with the Flight 93 Memorial Task Force. The joint meeting will be held at the Somerset County Courthouse, Courtroom 1; 2nd floor; 111 East Union Street, Somerset, Pennsylvania 155501. The agenda of the meeting will include review and approval of Commission minutes from October 7, 2007; reports from Flight 93 Memorial Task Force and National Park Service; old business; and new business. The meeting will be open to the public. Comments from the public will be taken at the end of the meeting. Any person may file with a Commission a written statement concerning the matters to be discussed. Persons who wish to file a written statement or testify at the meeting, or who want further information concerning the meeting may contact Superintendent Joanne Hanley at 814.443.4557. Address all statements to: Flight 93 Advisory Commission, 109 West Main Street, Somerset, PA 15501.
Final Environmental Impact Statement/Environmental Impact Report; Creek and Wetland Restoration at Big Lagoon, Muir Beach, Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Marin County, CA, Notice of Availability
Document Number: 07-6103
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-20
Agency: Department of the Interior, National Park Service
Pursuant to Sec. 102(2)(C) of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321-4347), and the Council on Environmental Quality Regulations (40 CFR parts 1500 through 1508), the National Park Service, Department of the Interior, has prepared a Final Environmental Impact Statement and Final Environmental Impact Report (Final EIS/EIR) for the Wetland and Creek Restoration at Big Lagoon. The National Park Service (NPS) and Marin County have prepared the Final EIS/EIR in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). The Final EIS/EIR analyzes multiple alternatives for ecological restoration, public access improvements, bridge replacement, and fill disposal locations; an ``environmentally preferred'' alternative is identified. Background: The project at Big Lagoon would restore a functional, self-sustaining ecosystem, including wetland, riparian, and aquatic components. This restoration project would re-create habitat for sustainable populations of special-status species, reduce flooding on Pacific Way, and provide a compatible visitor experience. This project is needed to address the extensive loss of natural function for channel conveyance, sediment transport, channel stability, and diminished habitat for federally endangered coho and federally threatened steelhead; the increased flooding on Pacific Way; and the critical need for sustainable habitat for the California red-legged frog. With many of the impacts resulting from facilities necessary to accommodate public and residential access, access is needed in a manner that is compatible with ecosystem function. A successful project would meet the following goals: Restore a functional, self-sustaining ecosystem, including wetland, aquatic and riparian components. Develop a restoration design that (1) functions in the context of the watershed and other pertinent regional boundaries, and (2) identifies and, to the extent possible, mitigates factors that reduce the site's full restoration potential. Consistent with restoring a functional ecosystem, re- create and maintain habitat adequate to support sustainable populations of special status species. Reduce flooding on Pacific Way and in the Muir Beach community caused by human modifications to the ecosystem, and work with Marin County to ensure that vehicle access is provided to the Muir Beach community. Provide a visitor experience, public access, links to key locations, and resource interpretation that are compatible with the ecosystem restoration and historic preservation. Work with the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria to incorporate cultural values and indigenous archaeological sites resources into the restoration design, visitor experience, and site stewardship. Provide opportunities for public education and community- based restoration, including engaging local and broader communities in restoration planning and site stewardship. Coordinate with local transportation planning efforts to identify project features that are compatible with transportation improvements and consistent with the ecosystem restoration. Range of Alternatives Considered: The Final EIS/EIR evaluates three alternatives for ecological restoration, six alternatives for public access, and four alternatives for a new Pacific Way Bridge and road. The ``agency preferred'' alternative consists of the Creek Restoration Alternative, 175 Cars Rotated Parallel to Pacific Way Public Access Alternative, and the 250 foot-long Bridge with Highest Road Bridge Alternative. Below is a topical summary of the alternatives under consideration: Ecological Restoration alternatives include: The No Action alternative would leave Redwood Creek in its current alignment and would not propose any large-scale physical modifications to the site. The Creek Restoration alternative would involve relocating approximately 2,000 linear feet of Redwood Creek to the topographically lowest portion of the valley, while maintaining a habitat mix similar to current conditions; the Creek and Small Lagoon Restoration alternative would combine riparian restoration components with restoration of open water and wetland habitats by creating two open- water lagoons, one on either side of the new channel; and the Large Lagoon Restoration alternative would create a periodically brackish open-water habitat similar to historic (1853) conditions, modified to reflect existing constraints of Pacific Way and private property by creating a large lagoon with fringing wetlands extending to the valley's edge just landward of Muir Beach. Public Access alternatives include: The No Action alternative would retain the 175 Cars at Beach in its current configuration. The 50 Cars at Beach alternative would construct a 50-space parking lot at the beach at the site of the existing parking lot; the 145 Cars at Beach alternative would retain the same footprint as the existing parking lot, but the lower 90 feet would be removed to accommodate a maximum of 145 vehicles; 175 Cars at Beach alternative would accommodate a maximum of 175 vehicles, the same number as the existing parking lot. The lot would be about the same size as the existing parking lot, but it would be pulled back from the creek further than the minimum 90 feet to create a minimum distance of about 180 feet from the creek. It would also expand further northward into existing riparian habitat; the 175 Cars Rotated Parallel to Pacific Way alternative would have the same 175-car capacity but rotate the parking lot parallel to Pacific Way; the 200 Cars at Beach alternative proposes the largest parking lot of all the alternatives with a maximum of 200 vehicle spaces located in the same area as the existing parking lot; and the 118 Cars at Alder Grove alternative would designate most parking away from the beach in an area known as the Alder Grove but would provide 14 Disabled-Accessible Parking Spaces and a drop-off turnaround at the beach. Bridge alternatives include: The No Action alternative would not change Pacific Way Road or the bridge. The 50 foot-long Bridge with a Raised Road alternative would free-span the 35 foot-wide channel and have a deck at 16.5 feet NGVD and be raised on the north and south approaches; the 50 foot-long Bridge with a Low Road alternative would free-span the 35 foot-wide channel and have a deck height at approximately 15 feet NGVD but would not be raised on the north and south approaches; the 150 foot-long Bridge with Raised Road alternative would span both the new 35 foot-wide channel and areas of riparian habitat and floodplain on either side of the channel and would be supported by 2 foot-wide piers, placed at approximately 40-foot intervals; and the 250 foot-long Bridge with Highest Road alternative would span the entire available riparian zone and floodplain from the Pelican Inn on the north to the existing bridge on the south and would have the highest deck of all the alternatives, between 16.25 and 18 feet NGVD and be supported by two foot-wide piers, placed at approximately 40-foot intervals. Scoping And Public Review: Between December 2002 and December 2004, 17 public meetings were held, as well as a variety of site visits and meetings with representatives of various agencies. On December 3, 2002, a Notice of Intent to prepare an EIS was published in the Federal Register beginning the formal scoping phase and identifying goals for the project. Three public scoping meetings were held on October 22, October 29, and November 2, 2002, with a site visit for the public held on November 9, 2002, to solicit input on the project and its potential impacts. Following these meetings, a Big Lagoon Working Group consisting of interested individuals, agencies, and organizations was formed to help develop project alternatives. The working group convened regularly in meetings that were open to the public. In addition, two alternatives workshops were held for the public on September 30 and October 4, 2003. The results of those workshops, as well as a more detailed summary of the scoping process, were distributed in the Alternative Public Workshops Report (2004). Finally, Marin County circulated a Notice of Preparation of an Environmental Impact Report on April 27, 2004, soliciting comments on the specific issues to be included in the scope of CEQA environmental review. All of these activities informed the alternatives formulation process. The Notice of Availability for the Draft EIS/EIR was published December 18, 2006 in the Federal Register and the document was made available for a 75-day public review and comment period. Following release of the Draft EIS/ EIR, NPS and Marin County held two public meetings to present the project to interested parties and to answer questions about the project. These meetings were held on January 18 and 31, 2007. NPS and Marin County also conducted a public hearing at the Marin County Planning Commission in San Rafael, California, on February 26, 2007, to receive comments on the draft document.
Ecological Restoration Plan, Final Environmental Impact Statement, Bandelier National Monument, New Mexico
Document Number: 07-6102
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-20
Agency: Department of the Interior, National Park Service
Pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, 42 U.S.C. 4332(2)(C), the National Park Service announces the availability of the Record of Decision for the Ecological Restoration Plan for Bandelier National Monument, New Mexico. On September 18, 2007, the Regional Director, Intermountain Region, approved the Record of Decision for the project. As soon as practicable, the National Park Service will begin to implement the Preferred Alternative contained in the FEIS issued on August 17, 2007. Alternative B was selected as the Park's preferred alternative; it maximizes work efficiency and minimizes resource impacts by implementing restoration treatments in the most systematic and timely fashion possible given available funding. This course of action, the no-action alternative, and one action alternative were analyzed in the Draft and Final Environmental Impact Statements. Alternative C focused on treating sub-basins containing the highest priority cultural resource sites within pi[ntilde]on-juniper woodland. The full range of foreseeable environmental consequences was assessed, and appropriate mitigating measures were identified. The Record of Decision includes a statement of the decision made, synopses of other alternatives considered, the basis for the decision, a description of the environmentally preferable alternative, a finding of no impairment of park resources and values, a listing of measures to minimize environmental harm, and an overview of public involvement in the decision-making process.
Final Environmental Impact Statement; General Management Plan/Comprehensive River Management Plans; Sequoia-Kings Canyon National Parks; Fresno and Tulare Counties, CA; Notice of Approval Of Decision.
Document Number: 07-6101
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-20
Agency: Department of the Interior, National Park Service
Pursuant to Sec. 102(2)(C) of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (Pub. L. 91-190, as amended) and the implementing regulations promulgated by the Council on Environmental quality (40 CFR 1505.2), the Department of the Interior, National Park Service has released a Final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the General Management Plan (GMP). The Regional Director, Pacific West Region has approved the Record of Decision for the GMP and supporting Comprehensive River Management Plans which together will guide management, research and operations at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks over the next 10-15 years. The formal no-action period was officially initiated November 17, 2006, with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Federal Register notification of the filing of the Final EIS. Decision: As soon as practicable the Parks will begin to implement a comprehensive range of activities and programs planned so as to enhance the park's ability to carry out its mission while limiting the amount of new environmental impacts from development and usethe selected plan was identified and analyzed as Preferred in the Final EIS. The new plan maximizes ecological restoration where possible, while the basic character of park activities and the rustic architecture of facilities is retained. River protection measures safeguard the existing and eligible and suitable wild and scenic rivers. A modest increase in day use is accommodated through alternative transportation systems and redesign of some roads and parking. Visitors are offered more diverse opportunities to experience the parks. A Wilderness Stewardship and Stock Use Plan will be developed, with formal opportunities for public involvement in the planning as well as review. The parks will refine the visitor carrying capacity framework so as to preserve park resources and ensure a quality visitor experience. As documented in the Final EIS, this course of action was deemed to be ``environmentally preferred''. The preferred plan and four alternatives were identified and analyzed in the Final EIS, and previously in the Draft EIS (the latter was distributed in May, 2004). The full spectrum of foreseeable environmental consequences was assessed, and appropriate mitigation measures identified, for each alternative. Beginning with early scoping, through the preparation of the Draft EIS, numerous public meetings were hosted in Three Rivers, Grant Grove, Visalia, Clovis, Fresno, Sacramento, San Francisco, Bishop, Los Angeles and elsewhere. As a result of the extensive scoping outreach of GMP mailing list of about 3,700 entries was developed. Approximately 400 oral and written comments were received in response to the Draft EIS. Key consultations or other contacts which aided in preparing the Draft and Final EIS involved (but were not limited to) the State Historic Preservation Office, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and California Department of Fish and Game, the Bureau of Land Management, the U.S. Forest Service, and Tribal representatives. Local communities, county and city officials, and interested groups and organizations were contacted extensively during initial scoping and throughout the conservation planning and environmental impact analysis process. Copies: Interested parties desiring to review the Record of Decision may obtain a complete copy by contacting the Superintendent, Sequoia-Kings Canyon National Parks, Three Rivers, CA 93271; or via telephone request at (559) 565-3341.
National Register of Historic Places; Notification of Pending Nominations and Related Actions
Document Number: 07-6091
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-20
Agency: Department of the Interior, National Park Service
Draft Mosquito and Mosquito-Borne Disease Management Policy Pursuant to the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of 1997
Document Number: E7-24675
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-19
Agency: Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior
We are reopening the comment period on the Federal Register notice published on October 15, 2007, that invited the public to comment on the Draft Mosquito and Mosquito-Borne Disease Management Policy Pursuant to the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of 1997.
Notice of Inventory Completion: Alutiiq Museum and Archaeological Repository, Kodiak, AK
Document Number: E7-24647
Type: Notice
Date: 2007-12-19
Agency: Department of the Interior, National Park Service
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