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NEPA Analysis. What projects should include cave/karst impact analysis? Any project occurring in known karst areas! Including but not limited to: APDS Rights of Way Grazing lease renewals Brush treatments Trail building Range improvement projects OHV areas Mineral lease sales
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NEPA Analysis • What projects should include cave/karst impact analysis? • Any project occurring in known karst areas! • Including but not limited to: • APDS • Rights of Way • Grazing lease renewals • Brush treatments • Trail building • Range improvement projects • OHV areas • Mineral lease sales • Special use permits • Etc.
NEPA Analysis • What projects should include cave/karst impact analysis? Cont. • Projects specifically dealing with caves. • Including but not limited to: • Gate installation • Closures • Seasonal • Permit required • No entry • Restoration projects • Special use permits • Filming • Guide services • Digs and resulting exploration procedures • Collection permits
NEPA Analysis • Develop a good affected environment statement appropriate to your area. • Geology and speleogenesis • Hydrology • Biology • Etc. • For similar reoccurring projects, develop comprehensive possible impacts. • APDs • Road, powerlines, pipelines • Grazing permits and range improvements
NEPA Analysis • Develop standard mitigation measures. • Buffers around karst features • Facility berming • No blasting • Casing and cementing programs • Etc. • Make sure project leads know of cave/karst concerns. • Delineate karst areas on maps. • Make it a habit to review all projects that fall in those areas. • Get “Cave/Karst” added to EA,CX,EIS, and DNA sign of sheets.
NEPA Analysis • Since caves include many resources, work closely with other specialists. • Biologists • Hydrologists • Recreation Specialists • Archeologists • Geologists • Add caving community members to mailing lists for public comment. • Presentations at grotto meetings • Mailers • For large projects, advertise in the NSS News or similar publications.