Overview

Environmental documentation for state or federal clearances should be customized to adequately address the nature, scope and complexity of the individual transportation project. The following are the CEQ’s general guidelines for compiling NEPA environmental documentation. The text should:
  • Be analytical rather than encyclopedic
  • Show why more study is not warranted
  • Offer a brief discussion, except for significant issues
  • Offer concise and plain language, incorporating graphics and tables where appropriate
  • Reduce emphasis on background material
  • Emphasize decision-making issues and assess impact rather than justify decisions
  • Incorporate references to data or reports that are readily available into document
  • Combine environmental documentation with other documentation where appropriate.
It is inappropriate to include all information used to assess the potential for encountering hazardous material contamination and difficult to do so while maintaining a concise environmental document.