Environmental Impact Statements and Regulations; Availability of EPA Comments

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EPA determined that the proposed action was environmentally unsatisfactory due to adverse impacts to 377 acres of forested wetlands, rare and endangered species and overall biodiversity at the Dismal Swamp Expansion Site. In addition, EPA judged the EIS to be inadequate for failing to consider the full range of project alternatives. EPA requested that a revised draft EIS be issued to explore less damaging alternative sites. ERP No. DS-AFS-K61103-CA Rating E02, Bear Mountain Ski Resort Expansion, (formerly) known as Goldmine) Additional Information, San Bernardino National Forest, Special-Use-Permit and Possible COE Section 404 Permit, San Bernardino County, CA. Summary: EPA expressed environmental objections because of the potential implications of allowing extensive developments in known California spotted owl and San Bernardino flying squirrel habitat in exchange for acquisition of high-quality off-site habitat. EPA also objected to potential cumulative impacts to air quality, groundwater overdraft, solid waste generation and visual impacts. EPA believed that many impacts can be avoided or reduced by downsizing the project. ERP No. DS-SFW-A64056-00 Rating LO, Federal Aid in Sport