pose a vertical obstruction relative to the airspace around a runway. The
levels of imaginary surfaces build upon one another and are designed to
eliminate obstructions to air navigation and operations, either natural or
man‐made. The dimension or size of an imaginary surface depends on the
runway classification.
have a significant impact and an EIS is required. The information obtained by
the EA / EIS is valuable in planning coordination and policy formation at the
local government level.
NEPA mandates that the military analyze the impact of its actions and
operations on the environment, including surrounding civilian communities.
Inherent in this analysis is an exploration of methods to reduce any adverse
environmental impact. The EIS is a public process that welcomes
participation by the community.
Of all the jurisdictions in the study area, Hyde County has implemented some
of the imaginary surfaces height requirements in its zoning ordinance.
National Environmental Policy Act
The DOD uses EISs and EAs when determining the most suitable installations
for considerations in mission realignment actions.
The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969 is a federal law
establishing a US national policy to promote the protection and
enhancement of the environment and requiring federal agencies to analyze
and consider the potential environmental impact of their actions. The
purpose of NEPA is to promote informed decision‐making by federal agencies
by making detailed information concerning significant environmental impacts
available to both agency leaders and the public.
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
Pursuant to the CWA, the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
(NPDES) permit program controls water pollution by regulating point sources
such as pipes or man‐made ditches that discharge pollutants into US waters.
According to the law, individual homes that are connected to a municipal
system, use a septic system, or do not have a surface discharge do not need
an NPDES permit; however, industrial, municipal, and other facilities must
obtain permits if their discharges go directly to surface waters. Traditionally,
NPDES focused on point sources however, more recently the focus has
shifted to nonpoint sources. Nonpoint sources generally include street flow
runoff from pavement, agricultural fields and lawn areas, which by their
nature, are more difficult to regulate.
All projects receiving federal funding, requiring a federal permit, or occurring
on federal property require NEPA compliance and documentation. NEPA is
applicable to all federal agencies, including the military. Not all federal
actions require a full Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). In some cases,
an action may not cause a significant impact, whereby an agency is only
required to prepare an Environmental Assessment (EA).
A NEPA document can serve as a valuable planning tool for local planning
officials. An EA or EIS can assist in the determination of potential impacts
that may result from changing military actions or operations and their effect
on municipal policies, plans and programs, and the surrounding community.
Public hearings are required for all EIS documents released under NEPA.
NEPA requires publishing a draft EA and subsequent Finding of No Significant
Impact (FONSI) and allowing public comment for a period of 30 days. An EA
may result in a FONSI or Record of Decision concluding that the action will
Background Report
National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act of
1966
The National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act of 1966 provides
guidelines and directives for administration and management of all areas in
National Wildlife Refuge System. The mission of the Refuge System is to
manage a national network of lands and waters for the conservation,
management, and where appropriate, restoration of fish, wildlife and plant
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