Environmental Planning Center of Excellence takes root at AFCEE

  • Published
  • By Jennifer Schneider
  • AFCEE Public Affairs
LACKLAND AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  The Air Force is getting "back to basics" in its National Environmental Policy Act compliance, and now has a place to turn to for guidance and assistance with Environmental Impact Analysis Process requirements.

In November 2010, the Air Force Center for Engineering and the Environment established the Environmental Planning Center of Excellence to support headquarters, major commands and installations with project execution, technical support and consultation for major EIAP efforts.

The center's standup directly supports an initiative by the assistant secretary of the Air Force for installations, environment and logistics to improve the time and cost efficiency of Air Force NEPA processes.

NEPA directs federal agencies to formally assess the environmental impacts of proposed major federal actions including consideration of reasonable alternatives. EIAP is required in the Air Force for any proposed action with a potential environmental impact.

"NEPA requires that we analyze the potential environmental impact of proposed actions and share the results of these analyses with the public," said Dale Clark, EPCE Chief.

According to policy guidance, a proposed action will meet with one of three outcomes. It may qualify for a categorical exclusion, require completion of an environmental assessment when no significant impact is expected, or require completion of an environmental impact statement.

One goal the Air Force has for improving the EIAP process is to reduce the completion time for environmental assessments and environmental impact statements to 6 and 12 months, respectively.

One of the primary tools for reaching this timeframe goal is use of a new process known as "planning requirements for the EIAP." AFCEE is currently developing guidance in support of this process.

"PREIAP focuses on ensuring that the proponent (of the action) and other stakeholders are appropriately engaged in development of the proposed action and other critical information prior to contracting and initiating the EIAP analysis," said Eldon Hix, AFCEE Technical Support Division chief.

Other goals include using performance-based EIAP contracting capabilities, and establishing a timely and accessible milestone tracking system for environmental assessments and impact statements.

The EPCE staff at AFCEE is comprised of NEPA professionals with technical expertise, as well as project managers to assume oversight and execution of NEPA task orders, Mr. Clark said.

The EPCE is still in its early stages, but is prepared to begin supporting major command, installation and program office requirements on a limited basis. For more information, or to request support, contact Mr. Clark at john.clark.7@us.af.mil or 210-395-8379 (DSN 969-8379).