Scoping is an integral component of NEPA documentation and the beginning of the formal public input process for an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)*.  The early involvement of interested and affected stakeholders is integral to responsible project planning. 

 

The following are the main components of the scoping process:

• Obtain input from appropriate federal, tribal, state, and local agencies, and from the public
• Determine all possible alternatives to be evaluated in the Draft EIS (DEIS)
• Determine Lead Agency
• Determine Cooperating Agencies

 

Scoping encourages an open line of dialogue between the public, agencies, and the project team.  These conversations often generate a list of potential additional issues of varying magnitude that might result in an expanded project analysis and an overall more responsive, detailed planning process.

 

*Environmental Assessment policy objectives are described in the GDOT Plan Development Process (PDP). Processes related to Environmental Assessment are described in detail in the GDOT Environmental Procedures Manual.