NAVY TO PREPARE REVISED DEIS

On September 21, 2007, the Navy announced its intent to revise the draft overseas environmental impact statement/environmental impact statement (Draft OEIS/EIS) released in October 2005, assessing potential environmental impacts of establishing an undersea warfare training range (USWTR) off the eastern coast of the United States for anti-submarine warfare (ASW) training. Based on comments received from federal agencies, state agencies, and members of the public, the Navy determined that a new Draft OEIS/EIS should be prepared, incorporating suggestions received during the public review and comment period. The changes contemplated involve addition of an alternative and modification of the methodology used to analyze behavioral impacts on marine mammals. 

Recognizing the continued importance of public input, the Navy is also reopening the scoping process and invites you to submit any comments relevant to the scope of issues to be addressed in the revised Draft OEIS/EIS.  Scoping comments previously submitted following publication of the 1996 Notice of Intent are still valid and will be considered.  All comments received during the October 2005 Draft OEIS/EIS public review and comment period will also be considered during this scoping process and should not be resubmitted.  Please submit any new comments by October 22, 2007, to ensure consideration.