News Release Archive

Reclamation Releases Updated NEPA Handbook

Handbook is a resource document for Reclamation employees implementing the National Environmental Policy Act

Media Contact: Peter Soeth, 303-445-3615

For Release: February 21, 2012

The Bureau of Reclamation has released an updated NEPA Handbook for use by Reclamation employees as they carry out their responsibilities to implement the National Environmental Policy Act.

This handbook does not establish or modify any law, regulation or policy. It is a reference document for Reclamation employees who work with NEPA and all other applicable environmental laws, regulations and policies.

Information includes:

  • how to apply NEPA and other related environmental requirements such as the Endangered Species Act and the National Historic Preservation Act;
  • discussions of activities within Reclamation that could trigger NEPA;
  • discussions of the types of NEPA documentation, including categorical exclusions, environmental assessments, findings of no significant impact, environmental impact statements and records of decision;
  • how to file EISs with the Environmental Protection Agency and publish Federal Register Notices; and
  • discussion on public involvement requirements and recommendations.

The handbook also recognizes the evolution of the legal and regulatory framework of NEPA. This includes current trends in technology and information sharing to improve its processes.

To view or download the NEPA Handbook, visit www.usbr.gov/nepa. If you have any questions on the NEPA Handbook, please contact Cathy Cunningham at 303-445-2875.

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The Bureau of Reclamation is a federal agency under the U.S. Department of the Interior and is the nation's largest wholesale water supplier and second largest producer of hydroelectric power. Our facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation opportunities, and environmental benefits. Visit our website at https://www.usbr.gov and follow us on Twitter @USBR; Facebook @bureau.of.reclamation; LinkedIn @Bureau of Reclamation; Instagram @bureau_of_reclamation; and YouTube @reclamation.

Relevant Link:

NEPA Handbook

NEPA Handbook Frequently Asked Questions