07-98
CHAPTER 9
ADMINISTER A CONTRACT FOR AN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT (EIS)
I. REQUIREMENT:
Federal funding of a project which requires the preparation of an EIS. The
decision to prepare an EIS is based either on the categorical Inclusion
criteria of VA Regs. 38 CFR 26.6 or as the result of an environmental
assessment. The EIS process may be funded independent of project funding.
II. PREPARATION:
A. Issue a notice of intent (NOI) immediately following award of the EIS
contract. See the NOI Procedure.
B. If site acquisition is part of the project, a site selection board (SSB)
will evaluate and select available sites for inclusion in the EIS. During
the SSB's investigation, gather and record all environmental concerns
pertinent to the project.
C. Informal "scoping" (40 CFR 1501.7) can be conducted in conjunction with
SSB work or postponed to involve the EIS Consultant.
D. Develop an EIS Schedule. Refer to the example. This schedule shall be
kept current during the course of the contract.
III. ACTION:
A. ADMINISTRATIVE CONTRACT REQUIREMENTS
1. Keep dated records of the consultant's efforts including travel,
meetings, submittals, and any authorized changes to the contract.
2. The consultant will submit invoices at payment milestones stipulated
in the contract. Certify invoices for payment and forward them to the
contracting officer (CO) in a timely manner.
3. Hold an orientation meeting with the consultant. Provide the
consultant with pertinent project information and site information
gathered during SSB efforts. Review EIS methodology and proposed format
to insure compliance with VA and NEPA requirements.
B. SCOPING MEETING
1. A public Scoping Process shall take place to determine the range of
actions, alternatives, and impacts to be considered in the EIS on the
proposed Department action.
2. In the case of site acquisition, this should occur as soon as
practical after the SSB establishes the site(s) to be investigated in
the EIS.
3. Immediately after any Scoping Meeting arrangements have been
confirmed, E-mail a notice with details to your Congressional Affairs
(60) representative. (cc: Contracting Officer)
28
Previous Page
