Slide 12 of 18
Notes:
- As it turns out, there is not a specific form or application for an OCS right-of-way. But, MMS has published regulations and guidance that outline the information requirements in detail.
- Basically, we encourage collecting information prior to submitting a request for a permit. This allows important geotechnical, geophysical, archaeological and biological information to be available earlier in the process.
- After a request for a right-of-way is submitted, the MMS is required to provide an opportunity for public comment, and to conduct an environmental analysis under the provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).
- In the event an environmental impact statement is required, a lead federal agency would be designated. Which agency has the lead would depend on the scope and nature of the specific project and the relative responsibility of the various agencies.
- In the case of the “over-the-top” pipeline proposal, MMS, the Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Transportation, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers or FERC are all possible lead federal agencies for the EIS.
- The project would also be subject to coastal consistency review with the State of Alaska’s coastal management program, and formal endangered species consultations would be required with the National Marine Fisheries Service and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
