[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 149 (Wednesday, August 3, 2016)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 51274-51296]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2016-18075]



[[Page 51273]]

Vol. 81

Wednesday,

No. 149

August 3, 2016

Part II





Department of Agriculture





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Farm Service Agency





Commodity Credit Corporation





Rural Housing Service, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, Rural 
Utilities Service, and Farm Service Agency





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7 CFR Parts 761, 762, 763, et al.





Environmental Policies and Procedures; Compliance With the National 
Environmental Policy Act and Related Authorities; Final Rule

  Federal Register / Vol. 81 , No. 149 / Wednesday, August 3, 2016 / 
Rules and Regulations  

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DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

Farm Service Agency

7 CFR Parts 761, 762, 763, 764, 765, 766, 767, 770, 772, 773, 774, 
and 799

Commodity Credit Corporation

7 CFR Part 1436

Rural Housing Service, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, Rural 
Utilities Service, and Farm Service Agency

7 CFR Part 1940

RIN 0560-AH02


Environmental Policies and Procedures; Compliance With the 
National Environmental Policy Act and Related Authorities

AGENCY: Farm Service Agency, Commodity Credit Corporation, Rural 
Housing Service, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, and Rural 
Utilities Service, USDA.

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: The Farm Service Agency (FSA) is consolidating, updating, and 
amending its regulations implementing the National Environmental Policy 
Act of 1969, as amended (NEPA). FSA's previous NEPA regulations had 
been in place since 1980. Significant changes to the structure of FSA 
and the scope of FSA's programs require changes in FSA's NEPA 
regulations. The changes will also better align FSA's NEPA regulations 
with the President's Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) NEPA 
regulations and meet the FSA responsibilities for periodic review of 
their categorical exclusions (CatExs). CatExs involve proposed actions 
that typically do not result in individual or cumulative significant 
environmental effects or impacts and therefore do not merit further 
environmental review in an Environmental Assessment (EA) or 
Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). The additions to the existing 
list of CatExs improves the clarity and consistency of the regulations. 
This final rule also expands and clarifies the list of proposed actions 
that require an EA. The FSA NEPA implementing regulations also cover 
the Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) programs that FSA administers on 
behalf of CCC. In addition, this rule makes conforming changes to 
existing references to FSA NEPA regulations in other FSA regulations. 
The revisions to the FSA NEPA implementing regulations are intended to 
improve transparency and clarity of the FSA NEPA process for FSA 
program participants, and to provide for a more efficient environmental 
review that will lead to better decisions and outcomes for stakeholders 
and the environment. Finally, in coordination with the Rural Housing 
Service, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, and Rural Utilities 
Service, this rule removes the old NEPA regulations.

DATES: Effective: August 3, 2016.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Nell Fuller; telephone (202) 720-6303. 
Persons with disabilities or who require alternative means for 
communication should contact the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) 
Target Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice).

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Background

    The proposed rule for this rulemaking initiative was published in 
the Federal Register on September 3, 2014 (79 FR 52239 through 52259) 
and discussed the changes to consolidate, clarify, and update the FSA 
NEPA regulations. As discussed below in the section titled Summary of 
Public Comments and FSA Responses, some additional clarifying changes 
of certain provisions are being made in response to public comments 
received on the proposed rule. The majority of the changes this rule is 
making to the FSA NEPA regulations are the changes introduced in the 
proposed rule.

NEPA

    NEPA (Pub. L. 91-190, 42 U.S.C. 4321-4370) establishes a national 
environmental policy, sets goals for the protection, maintenance, and 
enhancement of the environment, and provides a process for carrying out 
the policy and working toward those policy goals. The NEPA process 
requires different levels of environmental review and analysis of 
Federal agency proposed actions, depending on the nature of the 
proposed action. As stated in 40 CFR 1508.18(a), proposed actions 
include new and continuing activities, including projects and programs 
entirely or partly financed, assisted, conducted, regulated, or 
approved by federal agencies; new or revised agency rules, regulations, 
plans, policies, or procedures; and legislative proposals. Some 
proposed actions, because of the nature of their potential 
environmental effects, are categorically excluded from further 
environmental review and are known as CatExs. If a proposed action is 
not categorically excluded, additional review will be performed either 
through an EA, or, where the circumstances warrant, a more rigorous EIS 
to ensure that the additional time and analysis is both expeditious and 
serves to better inform the decision makers. Rules specifying the 
requirements for NEPA review are in government-wide NEPA regulations 
issued by CEQ and available in 40 CFR parts 1500 through 1508, and in 
individual agency regulations, including the USDA's NEPA implementing 
regulations (7 CFR part 1b). This rule updates the FSA NEPA 
implementing regulations.
    A CatEx is used typically for proposed actions that do not have a 
significant impact on the quality of the human environment, 
individually or cumulatively, such as a farm loan consolidation or 
funding for the maintenance of existing buildings. The general NEPA 
regulations define the human environment as the natural and physical 
environment, and the relationship of people with that environment (40 
CFR 1508.14). This final rule specifies categories of FSA proposed 
actions that are categorically excluded, if there are no extraordinary 
circumstances for the specific proposed action. As used in this rule, 
the term ``extraordinary circumstance'' refers to the presence of 
circumstances specified in 7 CFR 799.33 and the impacts of those 
circumstances--for example, impacts that are potentially adverse, 
significant, uncertain, or involve unique or unknown risks; in 
addition, it will be determined if the impacts can be avoided or 
mitigated. The results of the review for extraordinary circumstances 
will be the determination if the proposed action can be categorically 
excluded or if and EA or EIS is required. If a proposed action is not 
categorically excluded, then the next step in the NEPA process is 
usually an EA. An EA is prepared to analyze the potential environmental 
impacts of a Federal agency proposed action and alternatives to the 
proposed action to determine whether proposed actions can proceed 
without supplemental environmental review through an EIS. An EA can 
result in:
     A proposed action not proceeding,
     A Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI), or
     A determination that the environmental impact will be 
significant and therefore, an EIS is required.
    If the agency determines at an early stage that there is clearly 
the potential for significant environmental impacts, FSA can start the 
EIS process without first doing an EA.
    NEPA requires a Federal agency to prepare an EIS for any major 
Federal proposed action that significantly affects

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the quality of the human environment (see 42 U.S.C. 4332(c)). The 
criteria for what constitutes a ``major Federal action significantly 
affecting the quality of the human environment'' are specified in the 
general NEPA regulations that apply to all Federal agencies in 40 CFR 
1508.18. The EIS must include a detailed evaluation of:
    (1) The environmental impacts of the proposed action;
    (2) Any adverse environmental effects that cannot be avoided;
    (3) Alternatives to the proposed action;
    (4) The relationship between the local, short-term resource uses 
and the maintenance and enhancement of long-term ecosystem 
productivity; and
    (5) Any irreversible and irretrievable commitments of resources.
    NEPA requires that the environmental review must be started once a 
proposed action is concrete enough to warrant review and must be 
completed at the earliest possible time to ensure that planning and 
implementation decisions reflect environmental values. The NEPA review 
informs the decision maker and the affected public, and must be 
completed before a decision is made.
    NEPA also establishes CEQ. Executive Order 11514, ``Protection and 
Enhancement of Environmental Quality,'' as amended by Executive Order 
11991, ``Relating to Protection and Enhancement of Environmental 
Quality,'' directs CEQ to prepare binding regulations governing how 
Federal agencies are to implement NEPA. The CEQ NEPA regulations (40 
CFR parts 1500-1508) provide this general regulatory framework.
    The CEQ NEPA regulations require every Federal agency to develop 
agency-specific procedures for implementing NEPA. Each Federal agency's 
NEPA implementing procedures supplement the CEQ regulations to address 
the agency's specific environmental review needs. This final rule 
supplements the CEQ's NEPA regulations, and the USDA general NEPA 
regulations in 7 CFR part 1b, and specifies their implementation by 
FSA.

FSA Organizational History

    FSA was created in 1995 as required by the Federal Crop Insurance 
Reform and Department of Agriculture Reorganization Act of 1994 (Pub. 
L. 103-354); the former Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation 
Service (ASCS) and the farm loan portion of the Farmers Home 
Administration (FmHA) were merged and are currently the Farm Programs 
and Farm Loan Programs, respectively. Since that reorganization, FSA 
has operated under two separate sets of NEPA regulations, one for the 
programs within the scope of Farm Programs and one for the programs 
within the scope of Farm Loan Programs. This final rule consolidates, 
clarifies, and updates FSA NEPA regulations to establish a single set 
of NEPA regulations for FSA, and to ensure that those regulations 
reflect current FSA organizational structure, environmental laws, 
Executive Orders, and CEQ requirements.
    FSA's scope also includes field operations and commodity warehouse 
activities that were included in the scope of the former ASCS. These 
activities are already categorically excluded as inventory, 
informational, or administrative actions under USDA's general NEPA 
implementing rules in 7 CFR part 1b, and those CatExs continue to be 
available for application by FSA. This rule does not change the USDA 
department-wide CatExs that apply to FSA programs that solely involve 
those proposed actions or similar proposed actions identified in 7 CFR 
1b.3.

Previous Structure of FSA NEPA Regulations; Restructuring in This Rule

    The Farm Programs part of FSA oversees conservation, disaster 
assistance, price support, farm storage facility loans, and commodity 
loan programs. Previously, the NEPA regulations governing FSA Farm 
Programs were specified in 7 CFR part 799, which this rule revises. 
Many current FSA programs did not exist in 1980 and were therefore not 
specifically addressed under the previous NEPA regulations in 7 CFR 
part 799.
    The Farm Loan Programs part of FSA is responsible for providing 
direct farm loans, guaranteed farm loans, and land contract guaranteed 
loans. Previously, the NEPA regulations governing Farm Loan Programs in 
7 CFR part 1940, subpart G applied to FSA farm loans and to other USDA 
activities associated with the Rural Development agencies: Rural 
Housing Service, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, and Rural 
Utilities Service, (also formerly part of FmHA). The regulations in 7 
CFR part 1940 contained provisions that refer to programs that either 
no longer exist or are not FSA programs. This rule specifies the NEPA 
regulations for FSA Farm Loan Programs in 7 CFR part 799; part 1940 
will no longer apply to those programs. The Rural Development agencies 
(Rural Housing Service, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, and Rural 
Utilities Service) published a final rule on March 2, 2016 (81 FR 
11000-11053), amending part 1940, subpart G, to specify that subpart G 
does not apply to programs administered by the Rural Housing Service or 
the Rural Business-Cooperative Service. (NOTE: Subpart G had not 
applied to the Rural Utilities Service.) Therefore, with the changes 
made by this rule, the regulations in subpart G will no longer be used 
by any agency. Therefore, this rule removes subpart G to part 1940 in 
its entirety.
    FSA is also responsible for NEPA compliance for the CCC programs 
that FSA administers on behalf of CCC. FSA has no separate NEPA 
regulations for CCC programs; previous FSA NEPA regulations in 7 CFR 
part 799 applied to CCC programs that are administered by FSA. Those 
CCC programs continue to be included in the scope of 7 CFR 799, as 
revised by this rule.
    The revised part 799 has six subparts, titled ``General FSA 
Implementing Regulations for NEPA,'' ``FSA and Program Participant 
Responsibilities,'' Environmental Screening Worksheet,'' ``Categorical 
Exclusions,'' ``Environmental Assessments,'' and ``Environmental Impact 
Statements.'' The ``FSA and Program Participant Responsibilities'' 
subpart includes an overview chart of the FSA NEPA process.
    The changes are intended to improve clarity in the regulations, 
allow more efficient program implementation at the field level, provide 
more openness and transparency during FSA's environmental decision-
making, and simplify program administration.
    Following the discussion of the regulatory changes, a summary table 
provides a general comparison of the major NEPA provisions, the 
previous regulations, and this final regulation. In general, FSA has 
already administratively implemented FSA NEPA procedures to meet 
current NEPA requirements as specified in Executive Orders and CEQ 
regulations; this rule revises the regulations to include those 
currently implemented FSA NEPA procedures. For example, Programmatic 
EAs (PEAs) were not in the previous regulations, but FSA already does 
such analyses in compliance with current CEQ regulations. The 
provisions for PEAs are a revision to the regulations. A detailed 
crosswalk comparing the specific regulatory changes between the 
previous FSA regulations and these final regulations would not 
accurately reflect the changes in FSA NEPA procedures that impact the 
public. Combining the requirements from the previous 7 CFR parts 799 
and 1940 involved significant editing and restructuring. This resulted 
in final regulations that are significantly rewritten, but the 
underlying FSA NEPA procedures remain largely unchanged. Therefore, the 
summary table highlights

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the substantive procedural changes, rather than the detailed editorial 
restructuring and removal of obsolete provisions. This table is 
intended to provide a quick comparison of the major NEPA provisions and 
show how they are treated in both the previous regulations and this 
final regulation to clarify the actual changes that will have an impact 
on the public and the actions that FSA funds.
    The CEQ regulations require that Federal agencies implement NEPA 
procedures, in part to ``reduce paperwork and the accumulation of 
extraneous background data and to emphasize real environmental issues 
and alternatives'' (40 CFR 1500.2(b)). FSA believes that the changes 
meet that requirement by clarifying the procedures for completing EAs 
and EISs and expanding and making the CatEx list more specific. The 
changes will reduce paperwork and allow FSA to focus limited resources 
on real environmental issues and alternatives, as appropriate.
    Emergency circumstances will continue to be handled consistent with 
40 CFR 1506.11.

Environmental Screening Worksheet

    This rule includes procedures to increase transparency and 
accountability of FSA's NEPA process. One of those procedures is a new 
worksheet that will be used to assess the need for, and extent of, NEPA 
reviews for all FSA programs. This final rule describes the use of the 
new environmental screening worksheet (ESW) in 7 CFR part 799, subpart 
C. The ESW and the process for using it represent a substantive change 
from previous practice. Implementation of the ESW consolidates two 
forms previously required by 7 CFR parts 799 and 1940, subpart G, 
reducing total paperwork and ensuring better compliance with NEPA. FSA 
staff will use the ESW as an initial screening tool to record the use 
of a CatEx and review any likely environmental impacts of proposed 
actions and determine the potential significance and appropriate level 
of NEPA review (CatEx, EA, or EIS). For CatExs, completion of the ESW 
will be used to record the relevant CatEx being used; review and 
document the determination of whether extraordinary circumstances 
exist; and determine whether the CatEx is appropriately applied or if 
further environmental review of that proposed action is necessary. The 
new ESW consolidates the review criteria from multiple forms and 
checklists previously used by FSA for environmental review. Having one 
form will reduce the paperwork for FSA and ensure compliance with NEPA.
    As revised by this rule, 7 CFR part 799, subpart C, now specifies 
the categories of proposed actions that require the use of the ESW and 
how the ESW will be used. The ESW will be used to either record the 
CatEx or for a review, unless it is clear that the proposed action 
requires an EA or EIS or related environmental review, such as a PEA or 
PEIS. Generally, all proposed actions listed in Sec.  799.31 will not 
require further documentation beyond that provided in the 
substantiation for establishing the CatEx and the project file for 
specific proposed actions. The review using the ESW will be required 
for all proposed actions listed in Sec.  799.32. As noted in the 
proposed rule, an administrative record was created, in consultation 
with CEQ, to substantiate the CatExs in this rule. The administrative 
record includes benchmarking CatExs by other government agencies and 
documentation from previous FSA environmental review of these types of 
proposed actions.
    The next section of this document explains the new categories of 
CatExs. Examples of CatEx proposed actions specified in Sec.  799.31 
that do not require review include many loan-related proposed actions, 
fence repair, and maintenance of existing buildings. For those proposed 
actions, instead of a full review, FSA staff will simply use the ESW 
form to record the specific CatEx being used and to ensure that no 
extraordinary circumstances exist.
    The proposed actions specified in Sec.  799.32 of this rule may be 
categorically excluded depending on the outcome of the review 
documented in the ESW. Those CatEx proposed actions require a review 
using an ESW to determine if extraordinary circumstances exist that 
require further environmental review. Examples of these proposed 
actions that will be analyzed with a review using an ESW include loan 
transfers with planned new land disturbance and fence installation.
    Extraordinary circumstances, as specified in this rule, are 
considered in the context of a specific action and include situations 
with potentially significant impacts. If such circumstances do exist, 
then an EA is required for a proposed action that would otherwise be 
categorically excluded.
    For all proposed actions for which there is no applicable CatEx, if 
necessary, the ESW can be used to determine whether an EA or an EIS is 
the next step in the NEPA process, but the ESW is not required if it is 
clear to FSA that an EA or EIS is required.
    USDA agencies and other Federal agencies have similar environmental 
screening tools (for example, USDA's Natural Resources Conservation 
Service (NRCS) and Rural Development, the Department of Energy, the 
Department of Defense). FSA reviewed those screening tools and 
considered these agencies' approaches during development of the ESW. 
For the purposes of this rule, references to the ESW also refer to 
alternate documentation comparable to the ESW and that has been 
approved in advance by the FSA National Environmental Compliance 
Manager, such as related environmental documentation, including, but 
not limited to, the related documentation from NRCS or another agency.
    The ESW replaces the previous form FSA-850, ``Environmental 
Evaluation Checklist'' document and the RD-1940-22 form, which local 
FSA staff and County Office Committee reviewers have found to be 
outdated and confusing. The new, more concise ESW is designed to be 
applied consistently and provide a more transparent review of 
anticipated environmental effects.
    This final rule specifies the situations in which the ESW will be 
used by FSA. The ESW will be completed by FSA field office personnel 
during the review of an application for any FSA program, unless the 
program is categorically excluded from further environmental review as 
shown by the CatEx recorded on the ESW, or unless FSA receives 
technical assistance with the environmental review from USDA or another 
Federal agency that can be used in place of the ESW. For example, FSA 
often receives technical assistance from NRCS, which uses its own 
review form. The NRCS form provides the same information as the ESW and 
therefore is used instead of the ESW when NRCS supplies FSA technical 
assistance. The use of the new FSA ESW as specified in this rule is 
expected to make overall proposed action planning and project-specific 
environmental reviews more timely and cost effective. It is also 
expected to provide more clarity and transparency to the environmental 
review process.

CatEx Changes

    This rule updates and clarifies the CatEx requirements that apply 
to FSA programs and groups those requirements in a new subpart. 
Consistent with CEQ regulations, subpart D of the rule specifies that a 
CatEx is an agency proposed action that normally has no individual or

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cumulative significant effect on the human environment (see 7 CFR 
799.30). In subpart D, 7 CFR 799.31 and 799.32 provide longer and more 
specific lists of categorically excluded proposed actions than were in 
the previous regulations. The updated and expanded list of CatExs 
represents a substantive change. Many of the proposed actions included 
in this rule as CatExs were not explicitly listed as CatExs in the 
previous FSA NEPA regulation, but have been considered as CatExs under 
the Departmental regulations (for example, 7 CFR part 1b(3)(a)(2) 
activities which deal solely with funding programs). In the past, some 
program regulations should have been categorically excluded, but were 
not.
    The proposed rule requested public comment on all of the proposed 
CatExs. After reviewing and incorporating clarifications based on 
comments received, this rule adds all such proposed actions that should 
have been categorically excluded. Adding the specific list of CatExs to 
the FSA NEPA regulation adds clarity and transparency to the NEPA 
process by consolidating all FSA CatExs in a single regulation.
    Some of the CatExs in this rule are similar to the CatExs of other 
Federal agencies and reflect FSA's experience with similar factual 
circumstances. For example, the proposed action of ``fencing'' is a 
proposed action that FSA has categorized as a CatEx that also has been 
identified as a CatEx by other agencies, including the Departments of 
Energy and Interior, in their NEPA implementing regulations. It has 
also been documented in several FSA EISs for the Emergency Conservation 
Program to have no significant impact on the environment. Other new 
CatExs are more specific to FSA and reflect FSA's past experience with 
similar factual circumstances. These CatExs have been found to have no 
potential to produce significant impacts, individually or cumulatively, 
on the human environment based on past NEPA documentation by FSA 
environmental experts and their review of the impacts for implementing 
those proposed actions. For example, many of the loan program proposed 
actions conducted by FSA, such as refinancing, closing cost payments, 
and deferral of loan payments, have been shown consistently to have no 
potential to significantly impact the human environment as a result of 
the FSA proposed action, individually or cumulatively. In addition, 
those proposed actions were previously categorically excluded in 7 CFR 
1940.310(e)(2) as loan closing and servicing activities.
    There are many CatExs in this rule that are excluded on the basis 
of the location where the specific proposed actions are to occur. For 
example, various proposed actions that would take place within 
previously disturbed or developed farmland, and proposed actions on 
land where the former state of the area and its ecological functions 
have already been altered, are appropriate for a CatEx. These also 
include proposed actions on land that has been previously cultivated, 
as long as the new proposed action would not disturb below the plow 
zone, and amount to very limited disturbance. The Department of Energy 
uses this same ``previously disturbed ground'' criteria as an integral 
component of their CatExs.
    This rule separates FSA proposed actions into three broad 
categories with regard to CatExs and any further required environmental 
review. As explained below, these three categories are proposed actions 
that:
    (1) Are automatically excluded from further environmental review 
without further documentation (beyond recording the specific CatEx on 
the ESW for the administrative record),
    (2) Require review using the ESW, but may be excluded from further 
environmental review based on the result of the ESW, or
    (3) Are not excluded and require further environmental review (EA 
or EIS) because they fall into one of the following groups:
     First, those proposed actions that are categorically 
excluded from further environmental review without documentation, 
beyond recording the specific CatEx on the ESW for the administrative 
record. There are a total of 66 of these types of proposed actions in 
this rule, and includes proposed actions such as paying loan closing 
costs, refinancing debt, and a payment to support commodity prices with 
no requirement for any proposed action on part of the recipient. FSA 
may also add additional CatExs to the regulations in the future. As 
specified in this rule and discussed below, future CatExs would be 
proposed in the Federal Register with an opportunity for public comment 
(see Sec.  799.34 and 40 CFR 1507.3). FSA will consult with CEQ on any 
new CatExs prior to publication, as is the normal process for 
establishing CatExs, and as was done with this rule.
     Second, those proposed actions that are considered as 
CatExs so long as they are reviewed and documented with an ESW. 
Extraordinary circumstances, as specified in this rule in Sec.  799.33, 
are unique to a specific proposed action and include situations where a 
proposed action has potential impacts. The review for the presence or 
absence of such extraordinary circumstances will be documented by the 
completion of the ESW. There are a total of 24 of these proposed 
actions in this rule, including proposed actions such as loans for 
livestock purchases, construction in previously disturbed areas, 
grading, shaping, leveling, and refilling. These are categories of 
proposed actions where such extraordinary circumstances with the 
potential for environmental impacts have rarely resulted in potential 
effects. But, due to the potential for impacts, a review using the ESW 
is necessary to determine that no extraordinary circumstances exist.
     Third, those proposed actions that typically have the 
potential to have a significant impact on the human environment but for 
which, as a general matter, mitigation measures can be applied to 
decrease the level of significance to support a Finding of No 
Significant Impact. For those proposed actions, an environmental review 
in the form of an EA or EIS will be required and a CatEx will not be 
considered. If the context and intensity of the impacts are uncertain, 
these could be analyzed by completing the ESW and using the results to 
determine the need for an EA or an EIS. Otherwise, the ESW step can be 
skipped and the proposed action addressed using an EA or EIS, as 
appropriate. There are a total of 46 of these proposed actions and 
include proposed actions such as pond planning and construction, dike 
planning and construction, and operating loans for proposed actions 
with demolition or construction planned. As is true for every FSA 
proposed action, if a property is deemed historic, these proposed 
actions are also considered as undertakings that have the potential to 
affect a historic property and will therefore be subject to section 106 
of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA; 54 U.S.C. 306108). 
Consultation with the State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO), 
Tribal Historic Preservation Officer (THPO), Tribal governments, and 
the affected public will be conducted, as appropriate, based on the 
location, nature, and scale of the proposed action. This is also true 
if a proposed action has the potential to impact species or habitats 
listed under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) (16 U.S.C. 1531 through 
1544); consultation is required with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 
or National Marine Fisheries Service, or both, as appropriate. Other 
consultations or reviews may be needed, given the

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resources potentially impacted, such as wetlands or floodplains.
    As specified in Sec.  799.34 of this rule and the CEQ regulations 
in 40 CFR 1507.3, FSA is required to publish a document in the Federal 
Register to announce new CatExs. The document must provide for public 
comment. The proposed rule, as published in the Federal Register, 
served as the notice of the new CatExs in this rule, and comments were 
requested for a 90-day period on all of the proposed rule, including 
the CatExs specified in Sec. Sec.  799.31 and 799.32. FSA analyzed the 
public comments and has made changes in response to comments as 
discussed below in the Summary of Public Comments and FSA Responses 
section.
    The inclusion in the regulations of CatExs that were previously not 
explicitly listed as CatExs in the FSA NEPA regulations, but were 
previously documented as CatExs in their corresponding program 
regulations and FSA handbooks, will increase transparency and clarity 
of FSA's NEPA process. The new CatExs that this rule adds to the 
regulation, and the new ESW, will reduce the time and effort required 
for the environmental review of proposed actions that in the past 
required EAs, but almost always resulted in FONSIs as the result of the 
EAs.

EA Changes

    The previous FSA NEPA regulations in 7 CFR part 1940, subpart G, 
have two categories of Environmental Assessments (Class I and Class 
II). As currently specified by CEQ, there is no variation on EA 
requirements; for example, a checklist does not meet the definition of 
an EA (40 CFR 1508.9). This regulation has only one category of 
Environmental Assessment, which makes the FSA NEPA process consistent 
with the CEQ regulations and less complex than previously. This is a 
substantive change in the regulation, but not in the existing process.
    The previous FSA Farm Programs NEPA regulations in 7 CFR part 799 
do not specify the types of proposed actions for which an EA is 
required. This rule now includes a specific list of proposed actions 
for which an EA is normally required, in addition to the previously 
discussed list of CatExs where an ESW may be needed to determine if an 
EA is required (see 7 CFR 799.31 and 799.32, respectively). This rule 
also specifies the information that must be included in an EA (see 7 
CFR 799.42). These provisions help add clarity to the NEPA process.
    This rule adds criteria for developing a PEA if proposed actions in 
a program individually have an insignificant environmental impact, but 
cumulatively could have a significant impact (see 7 CFR 799.40(c)). FSA 
has performed PEAs in the past in conformance with CEQ requirements, 
but the previous FSA regulations did not specify the procedures for 
doing so. FSA's PEAs are broad NEPA documents that examine a program or 
policy on a larger scale and provide an analytical framework to examine 
environmental impacts in a comprehensive manner, while providing the 
basis for future proposed actions and site-specific analyses 
(``tiering''). The PEA process eliminates the need to review and 
prepare an ESW for each of the individual incentives to provide public 
access or to implement public access-related activities for any single 
parcel of land in a State. The PEA process:
     Allows FSA to identify similar proposed actions that share 
common issues, timing or geography;
     Provides a framework for future tiered analyses to be 
consistent with one another; shortens development time; and
     Reduces funding needs while streamlining or eliminating 
the environmental review process for certain individual proposed 
actions analyzed in the PEA.
    The use of the updated CatEx lists will likely substantially reduce 
the number of EAs that FSA is required to complete in a year, as 
compared to the number of EAs that FSA has completed in the past. The 
expected reduction in the number of EAs will depend on the finding of 
no extraordinary circumstances during the ESW review, and in some cases 
the ESW process could result in a finding that an EA is required. 
Specifically, many Farm Loan Programs proposed actions that previously 
required an EA will be categorically excluded with documentation 
required using the new ESW process. Some will be categorically excluded 
as recorded on the ESW without requiring additional supporting 
documentation.

EIS Changes

    This rule includes a new subpart on the EIS process that 
consolidates EIS requirements from the previous regulations, and more 
specifically describes the processes involved. As specified in this 
rule and as required by NEPA and CEQ regulations, an EIS is required 
for the following four types of proposed actions:
     Legislative proposals, not including appropriations 
requests, drafted and submitted to Congress by FSA, that have the 
potential to have significant impact on the quality of the human 
environment, as specified in 40 CFR 1506.8;
     Regulations for new and substantively discretionary 
programs, if through the preparation of an ESW or EA, as appropriate, 
FSA has determined that an EIS is necessary;
     Broad Federal assistance programs administered by FSA 
involving significant financial assistance for ground disturbing 
activities or payments to program participants that may have 
significant cumulative impacts on the human environment or national 
economy; and
     Ongoing programs that have been found through previous 
environmental analyses to have major environmental concerns.
    These four categories of proposed actions, while more clearly 
defined in this rule than in the previous regulations, are 
substantially similar to the requirements in the previous NEPA 
regulations for FSA Farm Programs in 7 CFR part 799. The previous NEPA 
regulations for FSA Farm Loan Programs in 7 CFR part 1940, subpart G, 
specify some general criteria for determining if an EIS is needed, with 
an emphasis on the location of the proposed action (for example, 
floodplains, wetlands). This rule clarifies the requirements for an 
EIS, but is not intended to substantively change when an EIS is 
required. This rule is not expected to result in a change in the number 
of EISs that FSA conducts each year. This rule explains more clearly 
the procedures and process FSA will follow when preparing an EIS, 
including specific requirements for the information that must be 
included in an EIS. This rule also adds specific information on the 
process for developing a programmatic EIS (PEIS), which was previously 
specified in FSA handbooks rather than the regulations. As noted 
earlier, much of that process has already been implemented 
administratively.

Summary of Substantive Changes

    This final rule consolidates and reorganizes the provisions 
previously in 7 CFR parts 799 and 1940, subpart G, into a revised 7 CFR 
part 799, adds longer and more specific lists of CatExs and of proposed 
actions requiring EAs, and adds new provisions to comply with current 
CEQ regulations. As discussed below, additional minor changes and 
clarifications were made based on comments received on the proposed 
rule. The following table summarizes how the major provisions in this 
regulation compare to similar provisions in the previous regulations.

[[Page 51279]]



                  Table 1--Previous 7 CFR Parts 799 and 1940 Compared to Revised 7 CFR Part 799
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                          7 CFR part 799 (as
        Major provisions            Previous 7 CFR      Previous 7 CFR       revised; this        Additional
                                       part 799            part 1940             rule)            information
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CatExs..........................  The term CatEx or   Some specific Farm  Lists all
                                   categorical         Loan Programs       categories of FSA
                                   exclusion was not   proposed actions    proposed actions
                                   used, although      were                and separates
                                   there is a list     categorically       them into two
                                   of proposed         excluded under 7    categories:
                                   actions not         CFR 1940.310(d).    Proposed
                                   normally                                actions that are
                                   requiring an EA                         always CatExs,
                                   or EIS.                                 with no review
                                                                           required; the use
                                                                           of these CatExs
                                                                           will be recorded
                                                                           on the ESW..
                                                                           Proposed   ..................
                                                                           actions that are
                                                                           categorically
                                                                           excluded with
                                                                           review using the
                                                                           ESW to determine
                                                                           whether an
                                                                           extraordinary
                                                                           circumstance
                                                                           exists, in which
                                                                           case an EA will
                                                                           be required.
EAs.............................  Required NEPA       Required EAs,       Lists all specific  Some proposed
                                   process to be       depending on        FSA proposed        actions that
                                   followed but did    circumstances,      actions that        previously
                                   not specify which   for certain Farm    require an EA and   required an EA
                                   Farm Programs       Loan Programs       those that          are now
                                   proposed actions    proposed actions.   require review      categorically
                                   require an EA.      See 7 CFR           through an ESW to   excluded proposed
                                                       1940.311, 312,      determine if an     actions.
                                                       318, and 319.       EA is required
                                                                           (based on
                                                                           existence of
                                                                           extraordinary
                                                                           circumstances).
                                                                           Eliminates the
                                                                           Class I and Class
                                                                           II EA process for
                                                                           Farm Loan
                                                                           Programs.
EIS.............................  Specified general   Specified criteria  Specifies the       No change in the
                                   categories of FSA   for determining     general             types of proposed
                                   Farm Programs       significant         categories of FSA   actions for which
                                   proposed actions    impacts, with an    proposed actions    an EIS is
                                   that are likely     emphasis on         that are likely     required, but
                                   to have a           floodplains and     to have a           more detail on
                                   significant         wetlands. See 7     significant         the content and
                                   impact on the       CFR 1940.313,       impact on the       review process of
                                   environment, and    314, and 320.       environment.        an EIS.
                                   specific programs                       Specifies the
                                   that are not.                           content of an EIS
                                                                           and the review
                                                                           process.
ESW.............................  An appendix         Environmental       Review with an ESW  The ESW and
                                   provided the now    Evaluation (RD-     is required for     instructions are
                                   obsolete ASCS-929   1940-22) could be   FSA proposed        in the handbooks.
                                   form.               required to         actions using a
                                                       determine if a      CatEx requiring
                                                       Class I or Class    documentation to
                                                       II EA should be     determine if an
                                                       prepared. See 7     extraordinary
                                                       CFR 1940.317(c).    circumstance
                                                                           exists and if an
                                                                           EA or EIS should
                                                                           be prepared.
Programmatic NEPA Process.......  Not addressed.      Not addressed       Specifies process   This is not a new
                                                       specifically,       for conducting      process for FSA,
                                                       although tiering    programmatic NEPA   but the process
                                                       was in 7 CFR        for FSA programs    was previously
                                                       1940.327.           and proposed        not specified in
                                                                           actions that have   the FSA
                                                                           a national scope.   regulations.
Integration of other              NEPA and CEQ's      Some other          Many environmental  FSA already
 environmental laws and            NEPA regulations    environmental law   laws, Executive     complies with the
 regulations.                      were the only       requirements were   Orders, and         Executive Orders,
                                   environmental       mentioned, but      regulations are     USDA regulations,
                                   laws and            not in detail and   added as            laws, and CEQ
                                   regulations         with little         references.         regulations
                                   referenced.         guidance on how     Compliance with     listed in the
                                                       they apply.         other               final rule, but
                                                                           environmental       most of those
                                                                           laws, such as       references were
                                                                           ESA, is explained   not in the
                                                                           in detail and       previous
                                                                           integrated into     regulations.
                                                                           the ESW.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Consolidating and Clarifying Amendments

    Many of the changes in this rule are essentially minor, technical, 
and clarifying changes; some changes reorganize the requirements from 
the previous regulations. This section discusses the technical and 
structural changes to the regulations that are intended to increase 
clarity and remove obsolete provisions, but do not change requirements 
for the public or change the environmental review processes 
administratively.
    All of the definitions that apply to NEPA implementation for FSA 
Farm Programs, Farm Loan Programs, and CCC programs administered by FSA 
are now in Sec.  799.4. In addition to the definitions already in the 
previous regulations, this rule adds definitions

[[Page 51280]]

for ``Administrator,'' ``application,'' ``construction,'' 
``consultation,'' ``environmental screening worksheet,'' ``financial 
assistance,'' ``historic properties,'' ``memorandum of agreement,'' 
``plow zone,'' ``program participant,'' ``protected resources,'' 
``State Historic Preservation Officer,'' ``Tribal Historic Preservation 
Officer,'' and ``wetlands.'' These terms are all already used in FSA's 
current NEPA implementation and Environmental Quality Programs handbook 
(1-EQ); adding them to the regulations will provide clarity to the FSA 
NEPA process, but will not change the existing process.
    Similarly, for consistency within USDA, the definition for 
``consultation'' in this rule includes the process of considering the 
views of other participants in the environmental review process and 
working toward agreement where feasible. This is consistent with how 
other USDA agencies (for example, NRCS) define ``consultation'' in 
their NEPA regulations.
    All of the FSA NEPA compliance responsibilities are specified in 7 
CFR part 799. The regulation clarifies who is responsible for NEPA and 
NHPA compliance at the national level by specifying that the 
Administrator or designee will appoint a National Environmental 
Compliance Manager as required by 40 CFR 1507.2(a), and a Federal 
Preservation Officer as required by section 110 of NHPA (54 U.S.C. 
306101) and Executive Order 13287. These are not new responsibilities; 
this rule simply clarifies the requirements. To update the previous 
position titles in FSA, the FSA positions previously referred to as 
``State Director'' are now referred to as ``State Executive Director.'' 
Other revised provisions clarify the role of the State Environmental 
Coordinator, to be consistent with current practice.
    The requirements for CatExs, EAs, and EISs are organized into 
separate subparts, so that it is clearer which requirements and 
processes apply to each type of environmental review. For example, the 
section on ``tiering,'' a process that is relevant to the EA and EIS 
processes, but not used for CatExs, will be included in the EA and EIS 
provisions, but the requirements for ``tiering'' will not change.
    Many of the changes in this rule remove obsolete provisions and 
terminology. For example, references to agencies that no longer exist 
have been removed and replaced with current references. This rule also 
removes references to programs that no longer exist (such as the 
Agricultural Conservation Program, Water Bank Program, Tobacco 
Production Adjustment Program, Bee Indemnity Program, and Naval Stores 
Program), replacing them with more general provisions that apply to 
types of programs and proposed actions rather than to specific 
programs. These changes make the regulations clearer, more transparent, 
and up to date, but are not substantive changes and should have no 
impact on the environmental review process.
    The previous regulations in 7 CFR parts 799 and 1940, subpart G, 
have numerous exhibits and appendices. These include obsolete forms and 
obsolete organizational charts. This rule removes those exhibits and 
appendices, which does not change the existing process because these 
items are no longer used. In Sec.  799.1, ``Purpose,'' this rule adds 
references to several dozen relevant environmental laws, Executive 
Orders, and regulations that were developed since the previous 
regulations were published. References to departmental regulations 
previously listed in appendices to 7 CFR part 1940 have also been moved 
to this list of references. FSA is already required to comply with 
these laws, Executive Orders, departmental regulations, and regulations 
of other agencies, so listing all of the relevant references in one 
consolidated section will not be a change to the existing practice.

Conforming Changes

    In addition to the changes discussed above, a number of changes 
needed to be made in other related FSA regulations to update references 
to the appropriate NEPA regulations. Throughout the FSA regulations, 
this rule updates references to NEPA regulations and environmental 
compliance to refer to 7 CFR part 799. This rule removes environmental 
compliance sections that are now redundant. For example, the separate 
environmental compliance section for the Farm Storage Facility Loan 
Program, which was in 7 CFR part 1436, is not necessary because that 
program is subject to the same environmental compliance requirements as 
every other FSA program.
    Along with the changes to the regulations, FSA will make conforming 
changes to any references to 7 CFR part 1940, subpart G in, for 
example, forms and handbooks.

Summary of Public Comments and FSA Responses

    The 90-day comment period for the proposed rule ended December 2, 
2014. FSA received 24 comments on the proposed rule. Comments were 
received from farming and food safety organizations, government 
agencies, financial institutions, and private individuals. Some of the 
comments received reflected misunderstandings of FSA's current and 
proposed NEPA processes, which are now clarified in this rule as 
discussed below. Other comments suggested specific changes, which are 
discussed below.
    The following discussion summarizes the issues raised by commenters 
and FSA's responses to those comments.
    Comment: Do not require a Notice of Intent (NOI) for an EA.
    Response: We are not requiring NOIs for EAs. This has been 
clarified and a change made in response to this comment in Sec.  
799.15(b)(3).
    Comment: Include the ESW in the regulation. The ESW should have 
been included in the proposed rule so that the public had a chance to 
comment on it.
    Response: The ESW is an internal document only. As such, it will be 
included in the FSA handbook. The ESW will remain flexible over time. 
No change in being made in response to this comment.
    Comment: Clarify Animal Feeding Operation (AFO) and Confined AFO 
(CAFO) definitions and requirements. There were also questions about 
the NEPA requirements for CAFOs, including impact on floodplains and 
watersheds, and making CAFOs pay for the cost of EAs and EIS. Do not 
increase these requirements.
    Response: We continue to use the U.S. Environmental Protection 
Agency's definitions for CAFOs, which are specified in 40 CFR 122.23. 
We have not increased the NEPA requirements for CAFOs from the current 
process; currently, the NEPA requirements for medium and large CAFOs 
are synonymous with the process included in this rule.
    Comment: Prepare an environmental review of the changes in this 
rule.
    Response: NEPA, CEQ Implementing Regulations, and the recent CEQ 
Guidance on Establishing New CatExs, do not require an environmental 
review of the changes in this rule. Rather, CEQ will review this 
regulation, the CatExs, and all other provisions, and prepare a 
Conformity Determination, with which they will determine whether or not 
this rule conforms to the specifications of NEPA and CEQ's Implementing 
Regulations. No change in being made in response to this comment.
    Comment: Add two additional CatExs, one for minor amendments and 
another for adopting CatExs of other agencies for shared proposed 
actions.

[[Page 51281]]

    Response: We have added the adoption of CatEx by other agencies in 
799.32(c)(3)(v) and modified a proposed CatEx in 799.31(b)(2)(iii) to 
better reflect the CatEx of minor amendments to already approved 
proposed actions.
    Comment: Discontinue approving loans for CAFOs.
    Response: Science and technology have transformed the agriculture 
sector over the second half of the 20th century. CAFOs provide a cost 
effective means of livestock production, an efficient use of available 
resources (land and labor), and an efficient means of ensuring a supply 
of reasonably priced protein for the nation. Environmentally safe and 
compliant CAFO operations are ensured by the U.S. Environmental 
Protection Agency regulation, permitting, and related monitoring and 
enforcement actions.
    CAFO's represent an important part of modern American agriculture; 
therefore, FSA lending for new or expanded CAFO operations is 
consistent with FSA's stated vision of providing economic opportunity 
through innovation, helping rural America thrive; promoting agriculture 
production; as well as being in step with its stated mission of 
fostering a market-oriented, economically, and environmentally sound 
American agriculture delivering an abundant, safe, and affordable food 
and fiber supply while sustaining quality agricultural communities. No 
change is being made in response to this comment.
    Comment: Expand list of sensitive resources to include impaired 
waters.
    Response: We have added waterbodies that are listed as impaired 
waters under section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1251-
1387) to the list of protected resources in Sec.  799.33(e)(3).
    Comment: Prepare an environmental review on commodity support and 
crop insurance payments.
    Response: To the extent FSA has discretionary authority over 
changes to these programs, and changes are more than administrative in 
nature, we will perform appropriate environmental review. No change in 
being made in response to this comment.
    Comment: Document the rationale for CatExs.
    Response: This documentation and analysis has been done as part of 
the conformity review for this rulemaking process by CEQ. No change in 
being made in response to this comment.
    Comment: Combine federal NEPA requirements with state-level 
requirements.
    Response: State-level requirements are not consistent nationally. 
As such, it would not be appropriate to attempt to combine all state 
requirements with FSA's agency-wide NEPA rule. That said, where 
possible and appropriate, FSA always encourages combining and 
streamlining shared compliance processes. No change in being made in 
response to this comment.
    Comment: If FSA accepts NRCS documentation, separate consultation 
should not be needed.
    Response: As lead agency for its proposed actions, FSA still needs 
to consult with NRCS regardless of environmental documentation provided 
by NRCS. FSA encourages combined consultation to the extent these can 
be appropriately combined on a case-by-case basis. No change in being 
made in response to this comment.
    Comment: Define ``plow zone.''
    Response: This rule now includes a definition of ``plow zone'' in 
Sec.  799.4(b) to specify that it is the depth to which a site has been 
previously disturbed by plows during agricultural tillage or other 
legal actions.
    Comment: Clarify requirements for ``cattle loans.''
    Response: This rule more clearly identifies which projects 
involving cattle will require additional internal FSA documentation, 
such as youth loans (Sec.  799.31(b)(1)(v)), loans for livestock 
purchases (Sec.  799.32(c)(1)(ii)), or construction of a CAFO (Sec.  
799.41(a)(9)).
    Comment: Clarify documentation for CatExs with and without the ESW.
    Response: To document our NEPA decisions, FSA decided that all FSA 
proposed actions will require completion of the ESW, unless it is clear 
to FSA that an EA or EIS is required. To clarify this, the form has 
been split in separate portions. The first portion is to record the use 
of CatExs included in Sec.  799.31. The second portion is to document 
the review of CatExs included in Sec.  799.32.
    Comment: More specifically define the following terms:
     Land clearing,
     Commercial facilities and structures,
     Minor planting and management, and
     Pesticides and fertilizers.
    Response: Minor planting and management was determined to be 
sufficiently defined in Sec.  799.31(b)(4). The use of the following 
terms have been further clarified in the following locations:
     Land clearing Sec.  799.41(a)(5),
     Commercial facilities and structures Sec.  799.41(a)(8), 
and
     Pesticides and fertilizers Sec.  799.31(b)(5)(vi).
    Comment: As proposed, the provisions for medium CAFOs would be an 
onerous impediment to obtaining financing for operations that will 
often include young or beginning farmers.
    Response: We revised the provisions to clarify that EAs will only 
be required for large CAFOs; ESW review will be completed for small and 
medium CAFOs if there are no extraordinary circumstances involved in 
the proposed action.
    Comment: The phrase ``installation or enlargement of irrigation 
facilities'' must be removed from the list of proposed actions 
requiring an EA or more specifically defined. Including wells, pumping 
plants, and sprinklers in the list of proposed actions requiring an EA 
could subject a large number of harmless and extremely low risk 
projects to additional onerous steps, costs and financing delays. Some 
provisions in the EA section are overly broad and ambiguous.
    Response: As specified in Sec.  799.41(a)(4), the EA requirement 
for proposed actions related to the installation or enlargement of 
irrigation facilities are when those facilities are designed to 
irrigate an aggregate of greater than 320 acres. Therefore, these 
proposed actions may not be related to low risk projects. No change in 
being made in response to this comment.
    Comment: Some of the proposed actions under Sec.  799.31 and some 
of the loan proposed actions involving construction included in Sec.  
799.34 are too broad and inconsistent with the NEPA regulations in 40 
CFR 1508.25.
    Response: The CatExs that involve construction have been revised to 
clarify and add context to require the appropriate level of 
environmental review. In addition to the clarifications, the CatExs 
that were proposed in Sec.  799.34 have also been moved into Sec.  
799.32.

Miscellaneous Changes

    In addition to the changes discussed above, during the development 
of this final rule and in keeping with the overall nature of the 
changes and clarifications made in response to the public comments, we 
determined that the following changes need to be made to the rule:
     Removed references to NHPA throughout the rule, as impacts 
to NHPA-governed resources are included as an extraordinary 
circumstance in Sec.  799.33(e)(1).
     Amended the definition of floodplains under Sec.  799.4(b) 
to be consistent with the new Executive Order 13690.

[[Page 51282]]

     Clarified in Sec.  799.2(a)(2) FSA's commitment to 
resource protection.
     Clarified and broadened public notice options specified in 
Sec.  799.2(a)(4).
     Clarified in Sec.  799.2(b) that a proposed action can be 
categorically excluded only if all the components of the proposed 
action are considered CatExs, and no extraordinary circumstances are 
triggered, and that the component triggering the highest level of NEPA 
review dictates the overall level of review for the proposed action.
     Clarified in Sec.  799.6(a)(2) the requirement to appoint 
SECs.
     Clarified FSA program participant responsibilities in 
Sec.  799.7(a)(7) through (10).
     Removed a provision in Sec.  799.7(c), which had been 
proposed, requiring FSA to provide information to participants 
regarding the level of information required for evaluating proposed 
actions, as these responsibilities are internal, need to remain 
flexible to adapt to changing external requirements, could mislead 
participants regarding the level of review needed for their proposed 
action, and may need to be state- or locally-specific.
     Clarified in Sec.  799.12(d) the environmental compliance 
requirements for emergency actions to address immediate post-emergency 
health or safety hazards.
     Clarified in Sec.  799.15(d) the notification requirements 
for the opportunity for the public to review of FONSIs in the certain 
limited circumstances as specified in CEQ regulations in 40 CFR 
1501.4(e)(2)(i) through (ii).
     Clarified in Sec.  799.17(b)(4) that the FSA Administrator 
can decide if public meetings are needed for a given proposed action.
     Clarified in Sec.  799.18 and throughout when the ESW or 
related environmental documentation, for example, the related NRCS 
form, is required. The use of the ESW depends on whether the 
appropriate CatExs covering a given FSA proposed action are in 
Sec. Sec.  799.31 or 799.32. For those CatExs listed in Sec.  799.31, 
the ESW is used to record the CatEx. For those CatExs listed in Sec.  
799.32, the ESW is used to review the proposed action to determine if 
the CatEx applies or if there are extraordinary circumstances.
     Moved a CatEx in Sec.  799.31 from the paragraph covering 
administrative actions to the paragraph covering repair, improvement, 
or minor modification proposed actions.
     Added ``minor management'' and ``minor construction'' to 
the heading of Sec.  799.32(c)(2) for consistency with the actual 
CatExs included in the category.
     Moved ``nutrient management'' from Sec.  799.31 to Sec.  
799.32 for consistency with the potential for environmental impacts.
     Clarified in Sec.  799.32(d)(2) that an ESW is not needed 
if it is already known, based on anticipated impacts, that an EA or EIS 
is needed.
     Clarified in Sec.  799.33(b)(4) that a violation of a 
Federal, State, or local law or policy is an extraordinary circumstance 
that prevents the use of the ESW.
     Clarified provisions in Sec.  799.41(a)(7) for consistency 
with the requirements for a Concentrated Aquatic Animal Production 
Facility (CAAP), as defined by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 
in 40 CFR 122.24-25.
     Clarified in Sec.  799.41(a)(8) that commercial facilities 
or structures are those used for processing or handling of farm 
production or for public sales.
     Clarified in Sec.  799.41(a)(10) the refinancing proposed 
actions involving large CAFOs and specifically, that an EA is required 
if the CAFO has been in operation for 24 months or less. This was 
changed from 12 months to avoid any potential circumvention of federal 
environmental compliance requirements.
     Clarified in Sec.  799.41(a)(11) through (12) that an EA 
is required for new rules only when they are substantively 
discretionary.
     Clarified in Sec.  799.41(b) that proposed actions that do 
not meet the thresholds defined in Sec.  799.41(a) and are not listed 
in Sec. Sec.  799.31 or 799.32, require review using the ESW to 
determine if an EA or EIS is warranted.
     Clarified in Sec.  799.42(c) FSA's role in applicant-
prepared EAs.

Effective Date

    In general, the Administrative Procedure Act (5 U.S.C. 553) 
requires that before rules are issued by Government agencies, the rule 
must be published in the Federal Register, and the required publication 
of a substantive rule is to be not less than 30 days before its 
effective date. One of the exceptions is that section 553 does not 
apply when the rule involves a matter relating to public property, 
loans, grants, benefits, or contracts. Therefore, because this rule 
relates to FSA benefit and loan programs, section 553, including the 
30-day effective period requirement, does not apply. This final rule is 
effective when published in the Federal Register.

Executive Orders 12866 and 13563

    Executive Order 12866, ``Regulatory Planning and Review,'' and 
Executive Order 13563, ``Improving Regulation and Regulatory Review,'' 
direct agencies to assess all costs and benefits of available 
regulatory alternatives and, if regulation is necessary, to select 
regulatory approaches that maximize net benefits (including potential 
economic, environmental, public health and safety effects, distributive 
impacts, and equity). Executive Order 13563 emphasizes the importance 
of quantifying both costs and benefits, of reducing costs, of 
harmonizing rules, and of promoting flexibility.
    The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) designated this final 
rule as not significant under Executive Order 12866, ``Regulatory 
Planning and Review,'' and has therefore not reviewed this rule.

Clarity of the Regulations

    Executive Order 12866, as supplemented by Executive Order 13563, 
requires each agency to write all rules in plain language. Comments 
were solicited as part of the proposed rule process and clarifications 
have been made to the text of this regulation as a result of the 
comments received.

Regulatory Flexibility Act

    The Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601-612), as amended by 
the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996 
(SBREFA), generally requires an agency to prepare a regulatory 
flexibility analysis of any rule subject to the notice and comment 
rulemaking requirements under the Administrative Procedure Act (5 
U.S.C. 553) or any other statute, unless the agency certifies that the 
rule will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial 
number of small entities. Even though a proposed rule was published for 
this rulemaking initiative, this rule is not subject to the Regulatory 
Flexibility Act because the agencies were not required by any law to 
publish a proposed rule for public comments for this rulemaking.

Environmental Review

    The Council on Environmental Quality regulations do not direct 
agencies to prepare an environmental review or document before 
establishing Agency procedures (such as this regulation) that 
supplement the CEQ regulations for implementing NEPA. Agencies are 
required to adopt NEPA procedures that establish specific criteria for, 
and identification of, three classes of proposed actions:
    (1) Those that normally require preparation of an environmental 
impact statement;

[[Page 51283]]

    (2) Those that normally require preparation of an environmental 
assessment; and
    (3) Those that are categorically excluded from further NEPA review 
(40 CFR 1507.3(b)).
    CatExs are one part of those agency procedures, and therefore 
establishing CatExs does not require preparation of an environmental 
review or related document. Agency NEPA procedures are procedural 
guidance to assist agencies in the fulfillment of agency 
responsibilities under NEPA, but are not the agency's final 
determination of what level of environmental review is required for a 
particular proposed action. The requirements for establishing agency 
NEPA procedures are specified in 40 CFR 1505.1 and 1507.3. The 
determination that establishing CatExs does not require environmental 
review and related documentation has been upheld in Heartwood, Inc. v. 
U.S. Forest Service, 73 F. Supp. 2d 962, 972-73 (S.D. Ill. 1999), 
aff'd, 230 F.3d 947, 954-55 (7th Cir. 2000).

Executive Order 12372

    Executive Order 12372, ``Intergovernmental Review of Federal 
Programs,'' requires consultation with State and local officials that 
would be directly affected by proposed Federal financial assistance. 
The objectives of the Executive Order are to foster an 
intergovernmental partnership and a strengthened Federalism, by relying 
on State and local processes for State and local government 
coordination and review of proposed Federal Financial assistance and 
direct Federal development. This rule does not provide grants, 
cooperative agreements, or any other benefits. Therefore, FSA has 
concluded that this rule does not require consultation with State and 
local officials as when USDA provides Federal financial assistance or 
direct Federal development (see 7 CFR 3015.307). Therefore, this rule 
is not subject to Executive Order 12372.

Executive Order 12988

    This rule has been reviewed in accordance with Executive Order 
12988, ``Civil Justice Reform.'' This rule will not preempt State or 
local laws, regulations, or policies unless they present an 
irreconcilable conflict with this rule. The rule will not have 
retroactive effect. Before any judicial action may be brought regarding 
the provisions of this rule, all administrative appeal provisions in 7 
CFR parts 11 and 780 must be exhausted.

Executive Order 13132

    This rule has been reviewed under Executive Order 13132, 
``Federalism.'' The policies contained in this rule do not have any 
substantial direct effect on States, on the relationship between the 
national government and the States, or on the distribution of power and 
responsibilities among the various levels of government, except as 
required by law. Nor will this rule impose substantial direct 
compliance costs on State and local governments. The provisions in this 
rule may impose compliance costs on State and local governments, but 
these are not new costs, as the provisions in this rule have already 
been implemented as required by per various Executive Orders, laws, and 
CEQ regulations. Therefore, consultation with the States is not 
required.

Executive Order 13175

    This rule has been reviewed in accordance with the requirements of 
Executive Order 13175, ``Consultation and Coordination with Indian 
Tribal Governments.'' Executive Order 13175 requires Federal agencies 
to consult and coordinate with tribes on a government-to-government 
basis on policies that have Tribal implications, including regulations, 
legislative comments or proposed legislation, and other policy 
statements or actions that have substantial direct effects on one or 
more Indian tribes, on the relationship between the Federal Government 
and Indian tribes or on the distribution of power and responsibilities 
between the Federal Government and Indian tribes.
    FSA has assessed the impact of this rule on Indian tribes and 
determined that this rule does not, to our knowledge, have Tribal 
implications that require Tribal consultation under Executive Order 
13175. To ensure this, with assistance from the USDA Office of Tribal 
Relations, FSA engaged in Tribal consultation in 2014 jointly with the 
USDA Rural Development Mission Area, who also amended their NEPA 
regulations. No comments were received as a result of this 
consultation. If a Tribe requests additional consultation, FSA will 
work with the USDA Office of Tribal Relations to ensure meaningful 
consultation is provided.

Unfunded Mandates

    Title II of the Unfunded Mandate Reform Act of 1995 (UMRA, Pub. L. 
104-4) requires Federal agencies to assess the effects of their 
regulatory actions on State, local, and Tribal governments, or the 
private sector. Agencies generally must prepare a written statement, 
including a cost benefit analysis, for proposed and final rules with 
Federal mandates that may result in expenditures of $100 million or 
more in any 1 year for State, local, or Tribal governments, in the 
aggregate, or to the private sector. UMRA generally requires agencies 
to consider alternatives and adopt the more cost effective or least 
burdensome alternative that achieves the objectives of the rule. This 
rule does contains no Federal mandates, as defined in Title II of UMRA, 
for State, local, or Tribal governments or for the private sector. 
Therefore, this rule is not subject to the requirements of sections 202 
and 205 of UMRA.

SBREFA Congressional Review

    This rule is not a major rule under SBREFA (Pub. L. 104-121). 
Therefore, there is no requirement to delay the effective date for 60 
days from the date of publication to allow for Congressional review. 
This rule is effective on the date of publication in the Federal 
Register.

Federal Assistance Programs

    This rule applies to all Farm Service Agency Federal assistance 
programs found in the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance.

Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995

    Previously, as specified in 7 CFR 1940.350, the OMB control number 
approving the NEPA information collection for FSA and the Rural 
Development agencies was 0575-0094. The changes to the regulation 
eliminate FSA's use of the form, RD-1940-22, Request for Environmental 
Information, previously used by FSA and included in that approval. In 
the past, financial institutions completed the form RD-1940-22 and 
submitted the form to FSA; that process has been revised and that form 
is no longer used. The burden hours will be reduced by 1,050 hours for 
this change in OMB 0575-0094 when that is renewed.
    The FSA NEPA regulation does not have any information collection 
activities related to the NEPA process. The appropriate FSA employee 
gathers information from soil maps, wetland maps, etc., then may visit 
the site. The FSA employee uses the ESW form, which is an internal form 
within FSA only. The ESW is completed by the appropriate FSA staff, 
with relevant information from one or more of the existing FSA forms 
with information collection approval. There is no information 
collection burden for this rule because it is associated with 
application for or participation in one or

[[Page 51284]]

more FSA programs and that information collection burden is approved 
for each respective FSA program, as needed. A few specific FSA program-
related forms will require conforming changes including, but not 
limited to, replacing references on the forms to 7 CFR 1940 to 7 CFR 
799; such changes will be addressed under the specific program control 
number.
    As noted in Sec.  799.42(c), FSA may request that a program 
participant provide information for use in an EA. That supplemental 
information will be case specific; the primary information comes from 
the information the applicant gave to the program itself (already 
covered by the relevant OMB control number for the respective FSA or 
CCC program) and site visits. Any additional information will be 
specific to the action in question. Therefore, it does not require 
additional approval under the Paperwork Reduction Act (44 U.S.C. 
chapter 35) for this rule.

E-Government Act Compliance

    FSA is committed to complying with the E-Government Act, to promote 
the use of the Internet and other information technologies to provide 
increased opportunities for citizen access to Government information 
and services, and for other purposes.

List of Subjects

7 CFR Part 761

    Accounting, Loan programs--agriculture, Rural areas.

7 CFR Part 762

    Agriculture, Banks, Banking, Credit, Loan programs--agriculture, 
Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.

7 CFR Part 763

    Agriculture, Banks, Banking, Credit, Loan programs--agriculture.

7 CFR Part 764

    Agriculture, Disaster assistance, Loan programs--agriculture.

7 CFR Part 765

    Agriculture, Agricultural commodities, Credit, Livestock, Loan 
programs--agriculture.

7 CFR Part 766

    Agriculture, Agricultural commodities, Credit, Livestock, Loan 
programs--agriculture.

7 CFR Part 767

    Agriculture, Credit, Government property, Government property 
management, Indians--loans, Loan programs--agriculture.

7 CFR Part 770

    Credit, Indians, Loan programs--agriculture, Reporting and 
recordkeeping requirements.

7 CFR Part 772

    Agriculture, Credit, Loan programs--agriculture, Rural areas.

7 CFR Part 773

    Apples, Loan programs--agriculture.

7 CFR Part 774

    Loan programs--agriculture, Seeds.

7 CFR Part 799

    Environmental impact statements.

7 CFR Part 1436

    Administrative practice and procedure, Loan programs--agriculture, 
Penalties, Price support programs, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements.

7 CFR Part 1940

    Agriculture, Environmental protection, Flood plains, Grant 
programs--agriculture, Grant programs--housing and community 
development, Loan programs--agriculture, Loan programs--housing and 
community development, Low and moderate income housing, Reporting and 
recordkeeping requirements, Rural areas, Truth in lending.

    For the reasons discussed above, the regulations in 7 CFR chapters 
VII, XIV, and XVIII are amended as follows:

7 CFR Chapter VII

PART 761--FARM LOAN PROGRAMS; GENERAL PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION

0
1. The authority citation for part 761 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301 and 7 U.S.C. 1989.


Sec.  761.10  [Amended]

0
2. Amend Sec.  761.10(c)(3) by removing the words ``subpart G of 7 CFR 
part 1940'' and adding the words ``part 799 of this chapter'' in their 
place.

PART 762--GUARANTEED FARM LOANS

0
3. The authority citation for part 762 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301 and 7 U.S.C. 1989.


Sec.  762.128  [Amended]

0
4. Amend Sec.  762.128 as follows:
0
a. In paragraph (a) remove the words ``part 1940, subpart G, of this 
title'' and add the words ``part 799 of this chapter'' in their place; 
and
0
b. In paragraph (c)(3) remove the words ``part 1940, subpart G'' and 
add the words ``part 799 of this chapter'' in their place.

PART 763--LAND CONTRACT GUARANTEE PROGRAM

0
5. The authority citation for part 763 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 5 U.S.C. 501 and 7 U.S.C. 1989.


Sec.  763.7   [Amended]

0
6. In Sec.  763.7(b)(12) remove the words ``part 1940, subpart G, of 
this title'' and add the words ``part 799 of this chapter'' in their 
place.


Sec.  763.16  [Amended]

0
7. In Sec.  763.16(a) remove the words ``part 799 and part 1940, 
subpart G, of this title'' and add the words ``part 799 of this 
chapter'' in their place.

PART 764--DIRECT LOAN MAKING

0
8. The authority citation for part 764 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301 and 7 U.S.C. 1989.


Sec. Sec.  764.51 and 764.106  [Amended]

0
9. Amend Sec. Sec.  764.51(b)(7) and 764.106(b) by removing the words 
``subpart G of 7 CFR part 1940'' and adding the words ``part 799 of 
this chapter'' in their place.

PART 765--DIRECT LOAN SERVICING--REGULAR

0
10. The authority citation for part 765 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301 and 7 U.S.C. 1989.


Sec.  765.205  [Amended]

0
11. Amend Sec.  765.205:
0
a. In paragraph (a)(3) by removing the words ``subpart G of 7 CFR part 
1940'' and adding the words ``part 799 of this chapter'' in their 
place; and
0
b. In paragraph (b)(3)(xiii) by removing the words ``part 1940, subpart 
G of this title'' and adding the words ``part 799 of this chapter'' in 
their place.


Sec. Sec.  765.252 and 765.351   [Amended]

0
11a. Amend Sec. Sec.  765.252 and 765.351 by removing the words 
``subpart G of 7 CFR part 1940'' and adding the words ``part 799 of 
this chapter'' in their place in the following places:
0
a. Sec.  765.252(b)(3)(ii); and
0
b. Sec.  765.351(a)(6).

PART 766--DIRECT LOAN SERVICING--SPECIAL

0
12. Revise the authority citation for part 766 to read as follows:


[[Page 51285]]


    Authority:  5 U.S.C. 301, 7 U.S.C. 1989, and 1981d(c).

Subpart C--Loan Servicing Programs


Sec. Sec.  766.102 and 766.112   [Amended]

0
13. Amend Sec. Sec.  766.102 and 766.112 by removing the words 
``subpart G of 7 CFR part 1940'' and adding the words ``part 799 of 
this chapter'' in their place in the following places:
0
a. Sec.  766.102(b)(3)(ii); and
0
b. Sec.  766.112(a)(6).

PART 767--INVENTORY PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

0
14. The authority citation for part 767 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301 and 7 U.S.C. 1989.


Sec.  767.201  [Amended]

0
15. Amend Sec.  767.201 introductory text, by removing the words 
``subpart G of 7 CFR part 1940'' and adding the words ``part 799 of 
this chapter'' in their place.

PART 770--INDIAN TRIBAL LAND ACQUISITION LOANS

0
16. Revise the authority citation for part 770 to read as follows:

    Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301 and 25 U.S.C. 488.


Sec.  770.5  [Amended]

0
17. Amend Sec.  770.5(a) by removing the words ``exhibit M to subpart G 
of part 1940 of this title'' and adding the words ``part 799 of this 
chapter'' in their place.

PART 772--SERVICING MINOR PROGRAM LOANS

0
18. Revise the authority citation for part 772 to read as follows:

    Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301, 7 U.S.C. 1989, and 25 U.S.C. 490.


Sec.  772.4   [Amended]

0
19. In Sec.  772.4 remove the words ``7 CFR part 1940, subpart G and 
the exhibits to that subpart and''.


Sec.  772.6   [Amended]

0
20. Amend Sec.  772.6(a)(6) by removing the words ``7 CFR part 1940, 
subpart G'' and adding the words ``part 799 of this chapter'' in their 
place.

PART 773--SPECIAL APPLE LOAN PROGRAM

0
21. The authority citation for part 773 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: Pub. L. 106-224.


Sec.  773.9  [Removed]

0
22. Remove Sec.  773.9.


Sec.  773.18   [Amended]

0
23. Amend Sec.  773.18(a)(3) by removing the words ``7 CFR part 1940, 
subpart G'' and adding the words ``part 799 of this chapter'' in their 
place.

PART 774--EMERGENCY LOAN FOR SEED PRODUCERS PROGRAM

0
24. The authority citation for part 774 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  Pub. L. 106-224.


Sec.  774.9  [Removed]

0
25. Remove Sec.  774.9.


Sec.  774.17  [Amended]

0
26. Amend Sec.  774.17(d) by removing the words ``7 CFR part 1940, 
subpart G'' and adding the words ``part 799 of this chapter'' in their 
place.

0
27. Revise part 799 to read as follows:

PART 799--COMPLIANCE WITH THE NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT

Subpart A--General FSA Implementing Regulations for NEPA
Sec.
799.1 Purpose.
799.2 FSA environmental policy.
799.3 Applicability.
799.4 Abbreviations and definitions.
Subpart B--FSA and Program Participant Responsibilities
799.5 National office environmental responsibilities.
799.6 FSA State office environmental responsibilities.
799.7 FSA program participant responsibilities.
799.8 Significant environmental effect.
799.9 Environmental review documents.
799.10 Administrative records.
799.11 Actions during NEPA reviews.
799.12 Emergency circumstances.
799.13 FSA as lead agency.
799.14 FSA as cooperating agency.
799.15 Public involvement in environmental review.
799.16 Scoping.
799.17 Public meetings.
799.18 Overview of FSA NEPA process.
Subpart C--Environmental Screening Worksheet
799.20 Purpose of the ESW.
Subpart D--Categorical Exclusions
799.30 Purpose of categorical exclusion process.
799.31 Categorical exclusions to be recorded on an ESW.
799.32 Categorical exclusions requiring review with an ESW.
799.33 Extraordinary circumstances.
799.34 Establishing and revising categorical exclusions.
Subpart E--Environmental Assessments
799.40 Purpose of an EA.
799.41 When an EA is required.
799.42 Contents of an EA.
799.43 Tiering.
799.44 Adoption of an EA prepared by another entity.
799.45 Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI).
Subpart F--Environmental Impact Statements
799.50 Purpose of an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).
799.51 When an EIS is required.
799.52 Notice of intent to prepare an EIS.
799.53 Contents of an EIS.
799.54 Draft EIS.
799.55 Final EIS.
799.56 Supplemental EIS.
799.57 Tiering.
799.58 Adoption of an EIS prepared by another entity.
799.59 Record of Decision.

    Authority: 42 U.S.C. 4321-4370.

Subpart A--General FSA Implementing Regulations for NEPA


Sec.  799.1  Purpose.

    (a) This part:
    (1) Explains major U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm 
Service Agency (FSA) environmental policies.
    (2) Establishes FSA procedures to implement the:
    (i) National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969, as amended 
(42 U.S.C. 4321 through 4370);
    (ii) Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) regulations (40 CFR 
parts 1500 through 1518); and
    (iii) USDA NEPA regulations (Sec. Sec.  1b.1 through 1b.4 of this 
title).
    (3) Establishes procedures to ensure that FSA complies with other 
applicable laws, regulations, and Executive Orders, including, but not 
limited to, the following:
    (i) American Indian Religious Freedom Act (42 U.S.C. 1996);
    (ii) Archaeological and Historic Preservation Act (16 U.S.C. 469 
through 469c);
    (iii) Archaeological Resources Protection Act of 1979 (16 U.S.C. 
470aa through 470mm);
    (iv) Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7401 through 7671q);
    (v) Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1251 through 1387);
    (vi) Coastal Barrier Resources Act (16 U.S.C. 3501 through 3510);
    (vii) Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972 (CZMA) (16 U.S.C. 1451 
through 1466);
    (viii) Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and 
Liability Act (42 U.S.C. 9601 through 9675);
    (ix) Endangered Species Act (ESA) (16 U.S.C. 1531 through 1544);
    (x) Farmland Protection Policy Act (7 U.S.C. 4201 through 4209);
    (xi) Migratory Bird Treaty Act (16 U.S.C. 703 through 712);

[[Page 51286]]

    (xii) National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) of 1966, as amended 
(54 U.S.C. 300101 through 307101),
    (xiii) Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (25 
U.S.C. 3001 through 3013);
    (xiv) Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (42 U.S.C. 6901 
through 6992k);
    (xv) Safe Drinking Water Act (42 U.S.C. 300h through 300h.8);
    (xvi) Wild and Scenic Rivers Act (16 U.S.C. 1271 through 1287);
    (xvii) Wilderness Act (16 U.S.C. 1131 through 1136);
    (xviii) Advisory Council on Historic Preservation regulations in 36 
CFR part 800 ``Protection of Historic Properties;''
    (xix) USDA, Office of Environmental Quality regulations in part 
3100 of this title, ``Cultural and Environmental Quality'' (see part 
190, subpart F, of this title, ``Procedures for the Protection of 
Historic and Archaeological Properties,'' for more specific 
implementation procedures);
    (xx) USDA, Natural Resources Conservation Service regulations in 
part 658 of this title, ``Farmland Protection Policy Act;''
    (xxi) USDA regulations in part 12 of this title, ``Highly Erodible 
Land and Wetland Conservation;''
    (xxii) U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service 
regulations in 36 CFR part 60, ``National Register of Historic 
Places;''
    (xxiii) U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service 
regulations in 36 CFR part 63, ``Determinations of Eligibility for 
Inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places;''
    (xxiv) USDA, Departmental Regulation 9500-3, ``Land Use Policy;''
    (xxv) USDA, Departmental Regulation 9500-4, ``Fish and Wildlife 
Policy;''
    (xxvi) Executive Order 11514, ``Protection and Enhancement of 
Environmental Quality;''
    (xxvii) Executive Order 11593, ``Protection and Enhancement of the 
Cultural Environment;''
    (xxviii) Executive Order 11988, ``Floodplain Management;''
    (xxix) Executive Order 11990, ``Protection of Wetlands;''
    (xxx) Executive Order 11991, ``Relating to Protection and 
Enhancement of Environmental Quality;''
    (xxxi) Executive Order 12898, ``Federal Actions to Address 
Environmental Justice in Minority Populations and Low-Income 
Populations;''
    (xxxii) Executive Order 13007, ``Indian Sacred Sites;''
    (xxxiii) Executive Order 13175, ``Consultation and Coordination 
with Indian Tribal Governments;''
    (xxxiv) Executive Order 13186, ``Responsibilities of Federal 
Agencies to Protect Migratory Birds;''
    (xxxv) Executive Order 13287, ``Preserve America;'' and
    (xxxvi) Executive Order 13690, ``Establishing a Federal Flood Risk 
Management Standard and a Process for Further Soliciting and 
Considering Stakeholder Input.''
    (b) The procedures and requirements in this part supplement CEQ and 
USDA regulations; they do not replace or supersede them.


Sec.  799.2  FSA environmental policy.

    (a) FSA will:
    (1) Use all practical means to protect and, where possible, improve 
the quality of the human environment and avoid or minimize any adverse 
environmental effects of FSA actions;
    (2) Ensure protection of basic resources, including important 
farmlands and forestlands, prime rangelands, wetlands, floodplains, and 
other protected resources. Consistent with Departmental Regulations and 
related Executive Orders, it is FSA policy not to approve or fund 
proposed actions that, as a result of their identifiable impacts, 
direct, indirect, or cumulative, would lead to or accommodate either 
the conversion of these land uses or encroachment upon them.
    (3) Ensure that the requirements of NEPA and other State and 
national environmental policies designed to protect and manage impacts 
on the human environment are addressed:
    (i) As required by 40 CFR 1501.2, at the earliest feasible stage in 
the planning of any FSA action,
    (ii) Concurrently and in a coordinated manner,
    (iii) During all stages of the decision making process,
    (iv) Using professional and scientific integrity in their 
discussions and analyses, identifying applicable methodologies, and 
explaining the use of the best available information, and
    (v) In consultation with all interested parties, including Federal, 
State, and Tribal governments;
    (4) As appropriate, make environmental review available to the 
public through various means, which can include, but are not limited 
to: Posting on the National FSA Web site or a State FSA Web site, 
publishing in the Federal Register, or publishing in a newspaper in the 
area of interest; and
    (5) Ensure that, if an FSA proposed action represents one of 
several phases of a larger action, the entire action is the subject of 
an environmental review independent of the phases of funding. If the 
FSA proposed action is one segment of a larger action, the entire 
action will be used in determining the appropriate level of FSA 
environmental review.
    (b) A proposed action that consists of more than one categorically 
excluded proposed action may be categorically excluded only if all 
components of the proposed action are included within one or more 
categorical exclusions and trigger no extraordinary circumstances. The 
component of a proposed action that requires the highest level of NEPA 
review will be used to determine the required level of the NEPA review.


Sec.  799.3  Applicability.

    (a) Except as provided for in paragraph (b) of this section, this 
part applies to:
    (1) The development or revision of FSA rules, regulations, plans, 
policies, or procedures;
    (2) New or continuing FSA proposed actions and programs, including, 
on behalf of the Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC), CCC programs, Farm 
Loan Programs, and Farm Programs; and
    (3) FSA legislative proposals, not including appropriations 
requests, developed by FSA or with significant FSA cooperation and 
support.
    (b) This part does not apply to FSA programs specifically exempted 
from environmental review by the authorizing legislation for those 
programs.


Sec.  799.4  Abbreviations and definitions.

    (a) The following abbreviations apply to this part:

CAAP Concentrated Aquatic Animal Production Facilities.
CAFO Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation.
CCC Commodity Credit Corporation.
CEQ Council on Environmental Quality.
EA Environmental Assessment.
EIS Environmental Impact Statement.
ESA Endangered Species Act.
ESW Environmental Screening Worksheet.
FONSI Finding of No Significant Impact.
FPO Federal Preservation Officer.
FSA Farm Service Agency.
MOA Memorandum of Agreement.
MOU Memorandum of Understanding.
NECM National Environmental Compliance Manager.
NEPA National Environmental Policy Act.
NHPA National Historic Preservation Act.
NOA Notice of Availability.
NOI Notice of Intent.
PEA Programmatic Environmental Assessment.
PEIS Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement.
RAO Responsible Approving Official.
RFO Responsible Federal Officer
ROD Record of Decision.
SEC State Environmental Coordinator.
SED State Executive Director for FSA.

[[Page 51287]]

SEIS Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement.
SHPO State Historic Preservation Officer.
THPO Tribal Historic Preservation Officer.
USDA United States Department of Agriculture.

    (b) The definitions in 40 CFR part 1508 apply and are supplemented 
by parts 718 and 1400 of this title; in the event of a conflict the 
definitions in this section will be controlling. In addition, the 
following definitions apply to this part:
    Administrator means the Administrator, Farm Service Agency, 
including designees.
    Application means the formal process of requesting FSA assistance.
    Construction means actions that include building, rehabilitation, 
modification, repair, and demolition of facilities, and earthmoving.
    Consultation means the process of soliciting, discussing, and 
considering the views of other participants in the environmental review 
process and working toward agreement where feasible.
    Environmental screening worksheet, or ESW, means the FSA screening 
procedure used to record the use of categorical exclusions, review if a 
proposed action that can be categorically excluded involves 
extraordinary circumstances, and evaluate the appropriate level and 
extent of environmental review needed in an EA or EIS when a 
categorical exclusion is not available or not appropriate. For the 
purposes of this part, the ESW may be represented by alternate 
documentation comparable to the ESW, and that has been approved in 
advance by the NECM, such as related environmental documentation, 
including, but not limited to, the related documentation from another 
agency.
    Financial assistance means any form of loan, loan guarantee, grant, 
guaranty, insurance, payment, rebate, subsidy, or any other form of 
direct or indirect Federal monetary assistance.
    Floodplains means the lowland and relatively flat areas adjoining 
inland and coastal waters, including flood-prone areas of offshore 
islands, including, at a minimum, those that are subject to a l-percent 
or greater chance of flooding in any given year.
    Historic property means any prehistoric or historic district, site, 
building, structure, or object included in, or eligible for inclusion 
in, the National Register of Historic Places maintained by the 
Secretary of the Interior as defined in 36 CFR 800.16.
    Memorandum of Agreement means a document that records the terms and 
conditions agreed upon to resolve the potential effects of a Federal 
agency proposed action or program. Often used interchangeably with 
Memorandum of Understanding.
    Plow zone means the depth of previous tillage or disturbance.
    Programmatic Environmental Assessment (PEA) means an assessment 
prepared when the significance of impacts of a program are uncertain to 
assist in making this determination.
    Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement (PEIS) means an 
analysis of the potential impacts that could be associated with various 
components of a program or proposed action that may not yet be clearly 
defined or even known, to determine if the program or its various 
components have the potential to significantly affect the quality of 
the human environment.
    Program participant means any person, agency, or other entity that 
applies for or receives FSA program benefits or assistance.
    Protected resources means environmentally sensitive resources that 
are protected by laws, regulations, or Executive Orders for which FSA 
proposed actions may pose potentially significant environmental 
effects.
    State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) means the state official 
appointed or designated under the NHPA to administer a State historic 
preservation program, or a representative to act for the SHPO.
    Tribal Historic Preservation Officer (THPO) means the Tribal 
official appointed by a Tribe's chief governing authority or designated 
by a Tribal ordinance or preservation program, who has assumed the 
responsibilities of the SHPO on Tribal lands under the NHPA.
    Wetlands means areas that are inundated by surface or ground water 
with a frequency sufficient to support and, under normal circumstances, 
do support or would support a prevalence of vegetative or aquatic life 
that requires saturated or seasonally saturated soil conditions for 
growth and reproduction. Wetlands generally include swamps, marshes, 
bogs, and similar areas, such as sloughs, prairie potholes, wet 
meadows, river overflows, mudflats, and natural ponds.

Subpart B--FSA and Program Participant Responsibilities


Sec.  799.5  National office environmental responsibilities.

    (a) The FSA Administrator or designee:
    (1) Is the Responsible Federal Officer (RFO) for FSA compliance 
with applicable environmental laws, regulations, and Executive Orders, 
including NEPA, and unless otherwise specified, will make all 
determinations under this part;
    (2) Will ensure responsibilities for complying with NEPA are 
adequately delegated to FSA personnel within their areas of 
responsibility at the Federal, State, and county levels;
    (3) Will appoint a National Environmental Compliance Manager 
(NECM), as required by 40 CFR 1507.2(a), who reports directly to the 
FSA Administrator; and
    (4) Will appoint a qualified Federal Preservation Officer (FPO), as 
required by Executive Order 13287 ``Preserve America'' section 3(e) and 
by section 110 of NHPA (54 U.S.C. 306101). This individual must meet 
the National Park Service professional qualification standards 
requirements referenced in 36 CFR part 61 and will report directly to 
the NECM.
    (b) The NECM or designee coordinates FSA environmental policies and 
reviews under this part on a national basis and is responsible for:
    (1) Ensuring FSA legislative proposals and multistate and national 
programs are in compliance with NEPA and other applicable environmental 
and cultural resource laws, regulations, and Executive Orders;
    (2) Providing education and training on implementing NEPA and other 
environmental compliance requirements to appropriate FSA personnel;
    (3) Serving as the principal FSA advisor to the FSA Administrator 
on NEPA and other environmental compliance requirements;
    (4) Representing FSA, and serving as an intra- and inter-agency 
liaison, on NEPA- and environmental compliance-related matters on a 
national basis;
    (5) Maintaining a record of FSA environmental compliance actions; 
and
    (6) Ensuring State and county office compliance with NEPA and other 
applicable environmental laws, regulations, and Executive Orders.
    (c) The FPO or designee coordinates NHPA compliance under this part 
and is responsible for:
    (1) Serving as the principal FSA advisor to the NECM on NHPA 
requirements;
    (2) Representing FSA, and serving as FSA intra- and inter-agency 
liaison, on all NHPA-related matters on a national basis;
    (3) Maintaining current FSA program guidance on NHPA requirements;
    (4) Maintaining a record of FSA environmental actions related to 
the NHPA; and
    (5) Ensuring State and county office compliance with the NHPA and 
other cultural resource-related requirements.

[[Page 51288]]

Sec.  799.6  FSA State office environmental responsibilities.

    (a) FSA State Executive Directors (SEDs) or designees are the 
responsible approving officials (RAOs) in their respective States and 
are responsible for:
    (1) Ensuring FSA proposed actions within their State comply with 
applicable environmental laws, regulations, and Executive Orders, 
including NEPA; and
    (2) Appointing two or more collateral duty State Environmental 
Coordinators (SECs) or at least one full time SEC.
    (b) An SED will not appoint more than one SEC for Farm Programs and 
one SEC for Farm Loan Programs in a State unless approved in writing by 
the NECM.
    (c) SECs or designees are responsible for:
    (1) Serving as the environmental compliance coordinators on all 
environmental-related matters within their respective State;
    (2) Advising SEDs on environmental issues;
    (3) Providing training, in coordination with the NECM, on NEPA and 
other environmental compliance requirements to appropriate FSA State 
and county office personnel;
    (4) Providing assistance on environmental-related matters on a 
proposed action-by-action basis to State and county office personnel, 
as needed;
    (5) When feasible, developing controls for avoiding or mitigating 
adverse environmental impacts and monitoring the implementation of 
those controls;
    (6) Reviewing FSA proposed actions that are not categorically 
excluded from documentation in an environmental assessment or 
environmental impact statement, or that otherwise require State office 
approval or clearance, and making appropriate recommendations to the 
approving official;
    (7) Providing assistance to resolve post-approval environmental 
issues at the State office level;
    (8) Maintaining decision records for State office environmental 
compliance matters;
    (9) Monitoring their respective State's compliance with 
environmental laws, regulations, and Executive Orders;
    (10) Acting as a liaison on FSA State office environmental 
compliance matters with the public and other Federal, State, and Tribal 
governments;
    (11) Representing the SED on environmental issues, as requested;
    (12) Delegating duties under this section with the approval of both 
the SED and NECM; and
    (13) Other NEPA and environmental compliance-related duties as 
assigned.
    (d) County Executive Directors, District Directors, and Farm Loan 
Programs loan approval officers or designees are responsible for 
compliance with this part within their geographical areas.


Sec.  799.7   FSA program participant responsibilities.

    (a) Potential FSA program participants requesting FSA assistance 
must do all of the following:
    (1) Consult with FSA early in the process about potential 
environmental concerns associated with program participation. The 
program participation information required to start participation in an 
FSA program varies by FSA program and may be in the form of an offer, 
enrollment, sign-up, contract, note and security agreement, or other as 
is required by the relevant FSA program.
    (2) Submit applications for all Federal, regional, State, and local 
approvals and permits early in the planning process.
    (3) Coordinate the submission of program participation information 
to FSA and other agencies (for example, if a conservation plan is 
required, then the program participation information is also submitted 
to USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service).
    (4) Work with other appropriate Federal, State, and Tribal 
governments to ensure all environmental factors are identified and 
impacts addressed and, to the extent possible, mitigated, consistent 
with how mitigation is defined in 40 CFR 1508.20.
    (5) Inform FSA of other Federal, State, and Tribal government 
environmental reviews that have previously been completed or required 
of the program participant.
    (6) Provide FSA with a list of all parties affected by or 
interested in the proposed action.
    (7) If requested by FSA, provide information necessary for FSA to 
evaluate a proposed action's potential environmental impacts and 
alternatives.
    (8) Ensure that all compliance documentation provided is current, 
sufficiently detailed, complete, and submitted in a timely fashion.
    (9) Be in compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and 
policies regarding environmental management and protection.
    (10) Not implement any component of the proposed action prior to 
the completion of FSA's environmental review and final decision, or 
FSA's approval for that proposed action, consistent with 40 CFR 1506.1.
    (b) When FSA receives program participation information for 
assistance or notification that program participation information will 
be filed, FSA will contact the potential program participant about the 
environmental information the program participant must provide as part 
of the process. This required information may include:
    (1) Design specifications;
    (2) Topographical, aerial, and location maps;
    (3) Surveys and assessments necessary for determining the impact on 
protected resources listed in Sec.  799.33(a)(2);
    (4) Nutrient management plans; and
    (5) Applications, plans, and permits for all Federal, regional, 
State and local approvals including construction permits, storm water 
run-off and operational plans and permits, and engineering designs and 
plans.


Sec.  799.8  Significant environmental effect.

    (a) In determining whether a proposed action will have a 
significant effect on the quality of the human environment, FSA will 
consider the proposed action's potential effects in the context of 
society as a whole, the affected region and interests, the locality, 
and the intensity of the potential impact as specified in 40 CFR 
1508.27.
    (b) [Reserved]


Sec.  799.9  Environmental review documents.

    (a) FSA may prepare the following documents during the 
environmental review process:
    (1) ESW;
    (2) Programmatic Environmental Assessment (PEA);
    (3) Environmental Assessment (EA);
    (4) Supplemental Environmental Assessment;
    (4) Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement (PEIS);
    (5) Environmental Impact Statement (EIS);
    (6) Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS);
    (7) Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI);
    (8) Record of Decision (ROD);
    (9) Notice of Intent (NOI) to prepare any type of EIS;
    (10) Notice of Availability (NOA) of environmental documents;
    (11) Notice of public scoping meetings;
    (12) Other notices, including those required under Executive Order 
11988, ``Floodplain Management,'' Executive Order 13690, ``Establishing 
a Federal Flood Risk Management Standard and a Process for Further 
Soliciting and Considering Stakeholder Input,'' and Executive Order 
11990, ``Protection of Wetlands;''
    (13) Memorandums of Agreement or Understanding (MOA or MOU), such 
as

[[Page 51289]]

those for mitigation of adverse effects on historic properties as 
specified in 36 CFR part 800, ``Protection of Historic Properties;'' 
and
    (14) Environmental studies, as indicated and appropriate.
    (b) [Reserved]


Sec.  799.10  Administrative records.

    (a) FSA will maintain an administrative record of documents and 
materials that FSA created or considered during its NEPA decision 
making process for a proposed action and referenced as such in the NEPA 
documentation, which can include any or all the following:
    (1) Any NEPA environmental review documents listed in Sec.  799.9, 
as applicable;
    (2) Technical information, permits, plans, sampling results, survey 
information, engineering reports, and studies, including environmental 
impact studies and assessments;
    (3) Policies, guidelines, directives, and manuals;
    (4) Internal memorandums or informational papers;
    (5) Contracts or agreements;
    (6) Notes of professional telephone conversations and meetings;
    (7) Meeting minutes;
    (8) Correspondence with agencies and stakeholders;
    (9) Communications to and from the public;
    (10) Documents and materials that contain any information that 
supports or conflicts with the FSA decision;
    (11) Maps, drawings, charts, and displays; and
    (12) All public comments received during the NEPA comment periods.
    (b) The administrative record may be used, among other purposes, to 
facilitate better decision making, as determined by FSA.


Sec.  799.11  Actions during NEPA reviews.

    (a) Except as specified in paragraphs (b) and (c) of this section, 
FSA or a program participant must not take any action, implement any 
component of a proposed action, or make any final decision during FSA's 
NEPA and environmental compliance review process that could have an 
adverse environmental impact or limit the range of alternatives until 
FSA completes its environmental review by doing one of the following:
    (1) Determines that the proposed action is categorically excluded 
under NEPA under subpart D of this part and does not trigger any 
extraordinary circumstances; or
    (2) Issues a FONSI or ROD under subpart E or F of this part.
    (b) FSA may approve interim actions related to proposed actions 
provided the:
    (1) Interim actions will not have an adverse environmental impact;
    (2) Expenditure is necessary to maintain a schedule for the 
proposed action;
    (3) Interim actions and expenditures will not compromise FSA's 
environmental compliance review and decision making process for the 
larger action;
    (4) Interim actions and expenditures will not segment otherwise 
connected actions; and
    (5) NEPA and associated environmental compliance review has been 
completed for the interim action or expenditure.
    (c) FSA and program participants may develop preliminary plans or 
designs, or perform work necessary to support an application for 
Federal, State, or local permits or assistance, during the NEPA review 
process, provided all requirements in paragraphs (a) and (b) of this 
section are met.


Sec.  799.12  Emergency circumstances.

    (a) If emergency circumstances exist that make it necessary to take 
action to mitigate harm to life, property, or important natural, 
cultural, or historic resources, FSA may take an action with 
significant environmental impact without complying with the 
requirements of this part.
    (b) If emergency circumstances exist, the NECM will consult with 
CEQ as soon as feasible about alternative NEPA arrangements for 
controlling the immediate impact of the emergency, as specified in 40 
CFR 1506.11.
    (c) If emergency circumstances exist, the FPO will follow the 
emergency procedures specified in 36 CFR 800.12 regarding preservation 
of historic properties, if applicable.
    (d) FSA assistance provided in response to a Presidentially-
declared disaster under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and 
Emergency Assistance Act, as amended, 42 U.S.C. 5121--5207, is exempt 
from NEPA requirements, as specified in 42 U.S.C. 5159. Under a 
Presidentially-declared disaster, the following actions to specifically 
address immediate post-emergency health or safety hazards are exempt 
from environmental compliance requirements:
    (1) Clearing roads and constructing temporary bridges necessary for 
performing emergency tasks and essential community services;
    (2) Emergency debris removal in support of performing emergency 
tasks and essential community services;
    (3) Demolishing unsafe structures that endanger the public or could 
create a public health hazard if not demolished;
    (4) Disseminating public information and assistance for health and 
safety measures;
    (5) Providing technical assistance to State, regional, local, or 
Tribal governments on disaster management control;
    (6) Reducing immediate threats to life, property, and public health 
and safety; and
    (7) Warning of further risks and hazards.
    (c) Proposed actions other than those specified in paragraph (d) of 
this section that are not specifically to address immediate post-
emergency health or safety hazards require the full suite of 
environmental compliance requirements and are not exempt.


Sec.  799.13  FSA as lead agency.

    (a) When FSA acts as the lead agency in a NEPA review as specified 
in 40 CFR 1501.5, FSA will:
    (1) Coordinate its review with other appropriate Federal, State, 
and Tribal governments; and
    (2) Request other agencies to act as cooperating agencies as 
specified in 40 CFR 1501.6, and defined in 40 CFR 1508.5, as early in 
the review process as possible.
    (b) If FSA acts as a lead agency for a proposed action that affects 
more than one State, the NECM will designate one SEC to act as RAO.
    (c) If the role of lead agency is disputed, the NECM will refer the 
matter to the FSA Administrator, who will attempt to resolve the matter 
with the other agency. If the Federal agencies cannot agree which will 
serve as the lead agency, the FSA Administrator will follow the 
procedures specified in 40 CFR 1501.5(e) to request that CEQ determine 
the lead agency.


Sec.  799.14  FSA as cooperating agency.

    (a) FSA will act as a cooperating agency if requested by another 
agency, as specified in 40 CFR 1501.6 and defined in 40 CFR 1508.5. 
However, FSA may decline another agency's request if FSA determines the 
proposed action does not fall within FSA's area of expertise or FSA 
does not have jurisdiction by law. If FSA declines such a request to 
cooperate, that will be documented in writing to the requesting agency 
and a copy will be provided to CEQ.
    (b) FSA may request to be designated as a cooperating agency if 
another agency's proposed action falls within FSA's area of expertise.

[[Page 51290]]

Sec.  799.15  Public involvement in environmental review.

    (a) FSA will involve the public in the environmental review process 
as early as possible and in a manner consistent with 40 CFR 1506.6. To 
determine the appropriate level of public participation, FSA will 
consider:
    (1) The scale of the proposed action and its probable effects;
    (2) The likely level of public interest and controversy; and
    (3) Advice received from knowledgeable parties and experts.
    (b) Depending upon the scale of the proposed action, FSA will:
    (1) Coordinate public notices and consultation with the U.S. Fish 
and Wildlife Service, USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service, 
Federal Emergency Management Agency, the National Marine Fisheries 
Service, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and other agencies, as 
appropriate, if wetlands, floodplains, ESA-listed species, or other 
protected resources have the potential to be impacted;
    (2) Make appropriate environmental documents available to 
interested partiesby request;
    (3) Publish a Notice of Intent (NOI) to prepare an EIS, as 
specified in subpart F of this part; and
    (4) Publish a Notice of Availability (NOA) of draft and final EISs 
and RODs, as specified in subpart F of this part.
    (c) If the effects of a proposed action are local in nature and the 
scale of the proposed action is likely to generate interest and 
controversy at the local level, then in addition to the proposed 
actions specified in paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section, FSA will:
    (1) Notify appropriate State, local, regional, and Tribal 
governments and clearinghouses, and parties and organizations, 
including the State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) and Tribal 
Historic Preservation Officer (THPO), known to have environmental, 
cultural, and economic interests in the locality affected by the 
proposed action; and
    (2) Publish notice of the proposed action in the local media.
    (d) Public review for 30 days for a FONSI is necessary if any of 
the limited circumstances specified in 40 CFR 1501.4(e)(2)(i) or (ii) 
applies.


Sec.  799.16  Scoping.

    (a) FSA will determine the appropriate scoping process for the 
environmental review of a proposed action based on the nature, 
complexity, potential significance of effects, and level of controversy 
of the proposed action.
    (b) As part of its scoping process, FSA will:
    (1) Invite appropriate Federal, State, and Tribal governments, and 
other interested parties to participate in the process, if determined 
necessary by FSA;
    (2) Identify the significant issues to be analyzed;
    (3) Identify and eliminate from further review issues that were 
determined not significant or have been adequately addressed in any 
prior environmental reviews;
    (4) Determine the roles of lead and cooperating agencies, if 
appropriate;
    (5) Identify any related EAs or EISs;
    (6) Identify other environmental reviews and consultation 
requirements, including NHPA requirements and State, local, regional, 
and Tribal requirements, so they are integrated into the NEPA process;
    (7) Identify the relationship between the timing of the 
environmental review process and FSA's decision making process;
    (8) Determine points of contact within FSA; and
    (9) Establish time limits for the environmental review process.
    (c) FSA may hold public meetings as part of the scoping process, if 
appropriate and as time permits. The process that FSA will use to 
determine if a public scoping meeting is needed, and how such meetings 
will be announced, is specified in Sec.  799.17.


Sec.  799.17  Public meetings.

    (a) In consultation with the NECM, the SEC will determine if public 
meetings will be held on a proposed action to:
    (1) Inform the public about the details of a proposed action and 
its possible environmental effects;
    (2) Gather information about the public concerns; and
    (3) Resolve, address, or respond to issues raised by the public.
    (b) In determining whether to hold a public meeting, FSA will 
consider and determine whether:
    (1) There is substantial controversy concerning the environmental 
impact of the proposed action;
    (2) There is substantial interest in holding a public meeting;
    (3) Another Federal agency or Tribal government has requested a 
public scoping meeting and their request is warranted; or
    (4) The FSA Administrator has determined that a public meeting is 
needed.
    (c) FSA will publish notice of a public meeting, including the 
time, date and location of the meeting, in the local media or Federal 
Register, as appropriate, at least 15 days before the first meeting. A 
notice of a public scoping meeting may be included in a Notice of 
Intent to prepare an EIS.
    (d) If a NEPA document is to be considered at a public meeting, FSA 
will make the appropriate documentation available to the public at 
least 15 days before the meeting.


Sec.  799.18  Overview of FSA NEPA process.

------------------------------------------------------------------------
        If the proposed action:                        FSA:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Is an emergency action.................  Follows the procedures in Sec.
                                           799.12
Is exempt from section 102(2)(C) of      Implements the action.
 NEPA (42 U.S.C. 4332(2)(C)) by
 authorizing legislation for the
 program.
Is categorically excluded under Sec.     Implements the action after
 799.31(b) or Sec.   1b.3 of this title.  recording the specific
                                          categorical exclusion on the
                                          ESW (no review needed).
Is a proposed action that has the        Completes an ESW to determine
 potential to impact historic             if there will be an impact on
 properties as specified in Sec.          historic properties. FSA will
 799.33(e) and therefore requires the     prepare an EA or EIS, as
 completion of an ESW.                    indicated, before implementing
                                          the action.
Is a categorically excluded proposed     Completes an ESW to determine
 action listed in Sec.   799.32 that      whether extraordinary
 requires the completion of an ESW.       circumstances are present, as
                                          defined in Sec.   799.33. This
                                          review includes a
                                          determination of whether the
                                          proposed action will
                                          potentially impact protected
                                          resources. If there are no
                                          extraordinary circumstances,
                                          FSA implements the action; if
                                          there are extraordinary
                                          circumstances, FSA will
                                          prepare an EA or EIS, as
                                          indicated, before implementing
                                          the action.
Involves a category of proposed actions  Prepares an EA.
 requiring an EA listed in Sec.
 799.41.

[[Page 51291]]

 
Involves a category of proposed actions  Prepares an EIS.
 requiring an EIS listed in Sec.
 799.51.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Subpart C--Environmental Screening Worksheet


Sec.  799.20  Purpose of the ESW.

    (a) FSA uses the ESW as an initial screening tool to evaluate 
record the use of a categorical exclusion for a proposed action and to 
determine the required type of environmental review.
    (b) Review with the ESW is not required for proposed actions that 
are categorically excluded as specified in Sec.  799.31(b) or Sec.  
1b.3 of this title, or for proposed actions where FSA determines at an 
early stage that there is a need to prepare an EA or EIS.

Subpart D--Categorical Exclusions


Sec.  799.30  Purpose of categorical exclusion process.

    (a) FSA has determined that the categories of proposed actions 
listed in Sec. Sec.  799.31 and 799.32 do not normally individually or 
cumulatively have a significant effect on the human environment and do 
not threaten a violation of applicable statutory, regulatory, or permit 
requirements for environment, safety, and health, including 
requirements of Executive Orders and other USDA regulations in this 
chapter. Based on FSA's previous experience implementing these actions 
and similar actions through the completion of EAs, these proposed 
actions are categorically excluded.
    (b) If a proposed action falls within one of the categories of 
proposed actions listed in Sec.  1b.3 of this title, Sec.  799.31, or 
Sec.  799.32, and there are no extraordinary circumstances present as 
specified in Sec.  799.33, then the proposed action is categorically 
excluded from the requirements to prepare an EA or an EIS.
    (c) Those proposed actions in categories in Sec.  799.31 or Sec.  
799.32 will be considered categorical exclusions unless it is 
determined there are extraordinary circumstances, as specified in Sec.  
799.33.


Sec.  799.31  Categorical exclusions to be recorded on an ESW.

    (a) Proposed actions listed in this section involve no new ground 
disturbance below the existing plow zone (does not exceed the depth of 
previous tillage or disturbance) and therefore only need to be recorded 
on the ESW; no further review will be required. Unless otherwise noted, 
the proposed actions in this section also do not have the potential to 
cause effects to historic properties, and will therefore not be 
reviewed for compliance with section 106 of NHPA (54 U.S.C. 306108) or 
its implementing regulations, 36 CFR part 800. However, some proposed 
actions may require other Federal consultation to determine if there 
are extraordinary circumstances as specified in Sec.  799.33.
    (b) The following proposed actions are categorically excluded. 
These proposed actions are grouped into broader categories of similar 
types of proposed actions. Those proposed actions that are similar in 
scope (purpose, intent, and breadth) and the potential significance of 
impacts to those listed in this section, but not specifically listed in 
Sec.  799.31 or Sec.  799.32, will be considered categorical exclusions 
in this category, unless it is determined that extraordinary 
circumstances exist, as specified in Sec.  799.33:
    (1) Loan actions. The following list includes categorical 
exclusions for proposed actions related to FSA loans:
    (i) Closing cost payments;
    (ii) Commodity loans;
    (iii) Debt set asides;
    (iv) Deferral of loan payments;
    (v) Youth loans;
    (vi) Loan consolidation;
    (vii) Loans for annual operating expenses, except livestock;
    (viii) Loans for equipment;
    (ix) Loans for family living expenses;
    (x) Loan subordination, with no or minimal construction below the 
depth of previous tillage or ground disturbance, and no change in 
operations, including, but not limited to, an increase in animal 
numbers to exceed the current CAFO designation (as defined by the U.S. 
Environmental Protection Agency in 40 CFR 122.23);
    (xi) Loans to pay for labor costs;
    (xii) Loan (debt) transfers and assumptions with no new ground 
disturbance;
    (xiii) Partial or complete release of loan collateral;
    (xiv) Re-amortization of loans;
    (xv) Refinancing of debt;
    (xvi) Rescheduling loans;
    (xvii) Restructuring of loans; and
    (xvii) Writing down of debt;
    (2) Repair, improvement, or minor modification actions. The 
following list includes categorical exclusions for repair, improvement, 
or minor modification proposed actions:
    (i) Existing fence repair;
    (ii) Improvement or repair of farm-related structures under 50 
years of age; and
    (iii) Minor amendments or revisions to previously approved 
projects, provided such proposed actions do not substantively alter the 
purpose, operation, location, impacts, or design of the project as 
originally approved;
    (3) Administrative actions. The following list includes 
categorically excluded administrative proposed actions:
    (i) Issuing minor technical corrections to regulations, handbooks, 
and internal guidance, as well as amendments to them;
    (ii) Personnel actions, reduction-in-force, or employee transfers; 
and
    (iii) Procurement actions for goods and services conducted in 
accordance with Executive Orders;
    (4) Planting actions. The following list includes categorical 
exclusions for planting proposed actions:
    (i) Bareland planting or planting without site preparation;
    (ii) Bedding site establishment for wildlife;
    (iii) Chiseling and subsoiling;
    (iv) Clean tilling firebreaks;
    (v) Conservation crop rotation;
    (vi) Contour farming;
    (vii) Contour grass strip establishment;
    (viii) Cover crop and green manure crop planting;
    (ix) Critical area planting;
    (x) Firebreak installation;
    (xi) Grass, forbs, or legume planting;
    (xii) Heavy use area protection;
    (xiii) Installation and maintenance of field borders or field 
strips;
    (xiv) Pasture, range, and hayland planting;
    (xv) Seeding of shrubs;
    (xvi) Seedling shrub planting;
    (xvii) Site preparation;
    (xviii) Strip cropping;
    (xix) Wildlife food plot planting; and
    (xx) Windbreak and shelterbelt establishment;
    (5) Management actions. The following list includes categorical 
exclusions of land and resource management proposed actions:
    (i) Forage harvest management;
    (ii) Integrated crop management;
    (iii) Mulching, including plastic mulch;
    (iv) Netting for hard woods;
    (v) Obstruction removal;

[[Page 51292]]

    (vi) Pest management (consistent with all labelling and use 
requirements);
    (vii) Plant grafting;
    (viii) Plugging artesian wells;
    (ix) Residue management including seasonal management;
    (x) Roof runoff management;
    (xi) Thinning and pruning of plants;
    (xii) Toxic salt reduction; and
    (xiii) Water spreading; and
    (6) Other FSA actions. The following list includes categorical 
exclusions for other FSA proposed actions:
    (i) Conservation easement purchases with no construction planned;
    (ii) Emergency program proposed actions (including Emergency 
Conservation Program and Emergency Forest Restoration Program) that 
have a total cost share of less than $5,000;
    (iii) Financial assistance to supplement income, manage the supply 
of agricultural commodities, or influence the cost and supply of such 
commodities or programs of a similar nature or intent (that is, price 
support programs);
    (iv) Individual farm participation in FSA programs where no ground 
disturbance or change in land use occurs as a result of the proposed 
action or participation;
    (v) Inventory property disposal or lease with protective easements 
or covenants;
    (vi) Safety net programs administered by FSA;
    (vii) Site characterization, environmental testing, and monitoring 
where no significant alteration of existing ambient conditions would 
occur, including air, surface water, groundwater, wind, soil, or rock 
core sampling; installation of monitoring wells; installation of small 
scale air, water, or weather monitoring equipment;
    (viii) Stand analysis for forest management planning;
    (ix) Tree protection including plastic tubes; and
    (x) Proposed actions involving another agency that are fully 
covered by one or more of that agency's categorical exclusions (on the 
ESW, to record the categorical exclusion, FSA will name the other 
agency and list the specific categorical exclusion(s) that applies).


Sec.  799.32  Categorical exclusions requiring review with an ESW.

    (a) Proposed actions listed in this section may be categorically 
excluded after completion of a review with an ESW to document that a 
proposed action does not involve extraordinary circumstances as 
specified in Sec.  799.33.
    (b) This section has two types of categorical exclusions, one 
without construction and ground disturbance and one with construction 
and ground disturbance that will require additional environmental 
review and consultation in most cases.
    (c) Consultations under NHPA, ESA, and other relevant environmental 
mandates, may be required to document that no extraordinary 
circumstances exist.
    (d) The following proposed actions are grouped into broader 
categories of similar types of proposed actions without ground 
disturbance. Those proposed actions that are similar in scope (purpose, 
intent, and breadth) and the potential significance of impacts to those 
listed in this section, but not specifically listed in this section, 
will be considered categorical exclusions in this category, unless it 
is determined that extraordinary circumstances exist, as specified in 
Sec.  799.33:
    (1) Loan actions. The following list includes categorical 
exclusions for proposed actions related to FSA loans:
    (i) Farm storage and drying facility loans for added capacity;
    (ii) Loans for livestock purchases;
    (iii) Release of loan security for forestry purposes;
    (iv) Reorganizing farm operations; and
    (v) Replacement building loans;
    (2) Minor management, construction, or repair actions. The 
following list includes categorical exclusions for minor construction 
or repair proposed actions:
    (i) Minor construction, such as a small addition;
    (ii) Drain tile replacement;
    (iii) Erosion control measures;
    (iv) Grading, leveling, shaping, and filling;
    (v) Grassed waterway establishment;
    (vi) Hillside ditches;
    (vii) Land-clearing operations of no more than 15 acres, provided 
any amount of land involved in tree harvesting (without stump removal) 
is to be conducted on a sustainable basis and according to a Federal, 
State, Tribal, or other governmental unit approved forestry management 
plan;
    (viii) Nutrient management;
    (ix) Permanent establishment of a water source for wildlife (not 
livestock);
    (x) Restoring and replacing property;
    (xi) Soil and water development;
    (xii) Spring development;
    (xiii) Trough or tank installation; and
    (xiv) Water harvesting catchment; and
    (3) Other FSA actions. The following list includes categorical 
exclusions for other FSA proposed actions:
    (i) Fence installation and replacement;
    (ii) Fish stream improvement;
    (iii) Grazing land mechanical treatment; and
    (iv) Inventory property disposal or lease without protective 
easements or covenants (this proposed action, in particular, has the 
potential to cause effects to historic properties and therefore 
requires analysis under section 106 of NHPA (54 U.S.C. 306108), as well 
as under the ESA and wetland protection requirements).
    (e) The following proposed actions are grouped into broader 
categories of similar types of proposed actions with ground 
disturbance, each of the listed proposed actions has the potential for 
extraordinary circumstances because they include construction or ground 
disturbance. Therefore, additional environmental review and 
consultation will be necessary in most cases. Those proposed actions 
that are similar in scope (purpose, intent, and breadth) and the 
potential significance of impacts to those listed in this section, but 
not specifically listed in this section, will be considered categorical 
exclusions in this category, unless it is determined that extraordinary 
circumstances exist, as specified in Sec.  799.33:
    (1) Loan actions. The following list includes categorical 
exclusions for proposed actions related to FSA loans:
    (i) Loans and loan subordination with construction, demolition, or 
ground disturbance planned;
    (ii) Real estate purchase loans with new ground disturbance 
planned; and
    (iii) Term operating loans with construction or demolition planned;
    (2) Construction or ground disturbance actions. The following list 
includes categorical exclusions for construction or ground disturbance 
proposed actions:
    (i) Bridges;
    (ii) Chiseling and subsoiling in areas not previously tilled;
    (iii) Construction of a new farm storage facility;
    (iv) Dams;
    (v) Dikes and levees;
    (vi) Diversions;
    (vii) Drop spillways;
    (viii) Dugouts;
    (ix) Excavation;
    (x) Grade stabilization structures;
    (xi) Grading, leveling, shaping and filling in areas or to depths 
not previously disturbed;
    (xii) Installation of structures designed to regulate water flow 
such as pipes, flashboard risers, gates, chutes, and outlets;
    (xiii) Irrigation systems;
    (xiv) Land smoothing;
    (xv) Line waterways or outlets;
    (xvi) Lining;
    (xvii) Livestock crossing facilities;
    (xviii) Pesticide containment facility;
    (xix) Pipe drop;

[[Page 51293]]

    (xx) Pipeline for watering facility;
    (xxi) Ponds, including sealing and lining;
    (xxii) Precision land farming with ground disturbance;
    (xxiii) Riparian buffer establishment;
    (xxiv) Roads, including access roads;
    (xxv) Rock barriers;
    (xxvi) Rock filled infiltration trenches;
    (xxvii) Sediment basin;
    (xxviii) Sediment structures;
    (xxix) Site preparation for planting or seeding in areas not 
previously tilled;
    (xxx) Soil and water conservation structures;
    (xxxi) Stream bank and shoreline protection;
    (xxxii) Structures for water control;
    (xxxiii) Subsurface drains;
    (xxxiv) Surface roughening;
    (xxxv) Terracing;
    (xxxvi) Underground outlets;
    (xxxvii) Watering tank or trough installation, if in areas not 
previously disturbed;
    (xxxviii) Wells; and
    (xxxix) Wetland restoration.
    (3) Management and planting type actions. The following list 
includes categorical exclusions for resource management and planting 
proposed actions:
    (i) Establishing or maintaining wildlife plots in areas not 
previously tilled or disturbed;
    (ii) Prescribed burning;
    (iii) Tree planting when trees have root balls of one gallon 
container size or larger; and
    (iv) Wildlife upland habitat management.


Sec.  799.33  Extraordinary circumstances.

    (a) As specified in 40 CFR 1508.4, in the definition of categorical 
exclusion, procedures are required to provide for extraordinary 
circumstances in which a normally categorically excluded action may 
have a significant environmental effect. The presence and impacts of 
extraordinary circumstances require heightened review of proposed 
actions that would otherwise be categorically excluded. Extraordinary 
circumstances include, but are not limited to:
    (1) Scientific controversy about environmental effects of the 
proposed action;
    (2) Impacts that are potentially adverse, significant, uncertain, 
or involve unique or unknown risks, including, but not limited to, 
impacts to protected resources. Protected resources include, but are 
not limited to:
    (i) Property (for example, sites, buildings, structures, and 
objects) of historic, archeological, or architectural significance, as 
designated by Federal, Tribal, State, or local governments, or property 
eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places;
    (ii) Federally-listed threatened or endangered species or their 
habitat (including critical habitat), or Federally-proposed or 
candidate species or their habitat;
    (iii) Important or prime agricultural, forest, or range lands, as 
specified in part 657 of this chapter and in USDA Departmental 
Regulation 9500-3;
    (iv) Wetlands, waters of the United States, as regulated under the 
Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1344), highly erodible land, or floodplains;
    (v) Areas having a special designation, such as Federally- and 
State-designated wilderness areas, national parks, national natural 
landmarks, wild and scenic rivers, State and Federal wildlife refuges, 
and marine sanctuaries; and
    (vi) Special sources of water, such as sole-source aquifers, 
wellhead protection areas, or other water sources that are vital in a 
region;
    (3) A proposed action that is also ``connected'' (as specified in 
40 CFR 1508.25(a)(1)) to other actions with potential impacts;
    (4) A proposed action that is related to other proposed actions 
with cumulative impacts (40 CFR 1508.25(a)(2));
    (5) A proposed action that does not comply with 40 CFR 1506.1, 
``Limitations on actions during NEPA process;'' and
    (6) A proposed action that violates any existing Federal, State, or 
local government law, policy, or requirements (for example, wetland 
laws, Clean Water Act-related requirements, water rights).
    (b) FSA will use the ESW to review proposed actions that are 
eligible for categorical exclusion to determine if extraordinary 
circumstances exist that could impact protected resources. If an 
extraordinary circumstance exists, and cannot be avoided or 
appropriately mitigated, an EA or EIS will be prepared, as specified in 
this part. Specifically, FSA will complete a review with the ESW for 
proposed actions that fall within the list of categorical exclusions 
specified in Sec.  799.32 to determine whether extraordinary 
circumstances are present.
    (c) For any proposed actions that have the potential to cause 
effects to historic properties, endangered species, waters of the 
United States, wetlands, and other protected resources, FSA will ensure 
appropriate analyses is completed to comply with the following 
mandates:
    (1) For section 106 of the NHPA (54 U.S.C. 306108), the regulations 
in 36 CFR part 800, ``Protection of Historic Properties;'' if an 
authorized technical representative from another Federal agency assists 
with compliance with 36 CFR part 800, FSA will remain responsible for 
any consultation with SHPO, THPO, or Tribal governments;
    (2) For section 7 of the ESA that governs the protection of 
Federally proposed, threatened and endangered species and their 
designated and proposed critical habitats; and
    (3) For the Clean Water Act and related Executive Order provisions 
for avoiding impacts to wetlands and waters of the United States, 
including impaired waters listed under Section 303(d) of the Clean 
Water Act.
    (d) If technical assistance is provided by another Federal agency, 
FSA will ensure that the environmental documentation provided is 
commensurate to or exceeds the requirements of the FSA ESW. If it is 
not, a review with an ESW is needed to determine if an EA or EIS is 
warranted.


Sec.  799.34   Establishing and revising categorical exclusions.

    (a) As part of the process to establish a new categorical 
exclusion, FSA will consider all relevant information, including the 
following:
    (1) Completed FSA NEPA documents;
    (2) Other Federal agency NEPA documents on proposed actions that 
could be considered similar to the categorical exclusion being 
considered;
    (3) Results of impact demonstration or pilot projects;
    (4) Information from professional staff, expert opinions, and 
scientific analyses; and
    (5) The experiences of FSA, private, and public parties that have 
taken similar actions.
    (b) FSA will consult with CEQ and appropriate Federal agencies 
while developing or modifying a categorical exclusion.
    (c) Before establishing a new final categorical exclusion, FSA will 
follow the CEQ specified process for establishing Categorical 
Exclusions, including consultation with CEQ and an opportunity for 
public review and comment as required by 40 CFR 1507.3.
    (d) FSA will maintain an administrative record that includes the 
supporting information and findings used in establishing a categorical 
exclusion.
    (e) FSA will periodically review its categorical exclusions to 
identify and revise exclusions that no longer effectively reflect 
environmental circumstances or current FSA program scope.
    (f) FSA will use the same process specified in this section and the 
results of its periodic reviews to revise a

[[Page 51294]]

categorical exclusion or remove a categorical exclusion.

Subpart E--Environmental Assessments


Sec.  799.40  Purpose of an EA.

    (a) FSA prepares an EA to determine whether a proposed action would 
significantly affect the environment, and to consider the potential 
impacts of reasonable alternatives and the potential mitigation 
measures to the alternatives and proposed action.
    (b) FSA will prepare a PEA to determine if proposed actions that 
are broad in scope or similar in nature have cumulative significant 
environmental impacts, although the impacts of the proposed actions may 
be individually insignificant.
    (c) The result of the EA process will be either a FONSI or a 
determination that an EIS is required. FSA may also determine that a 
proposed action will significantly affect the environment without first 
preparing an EA; in that case, an EIS is required.


Sec.  799.41  When an EA is required.

    (a) Proposed actions that require the preparation of an EA include 
the following:
    (1) New Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) agreements;
    (2) Development of farm ponds or lakes greater than or equal to 20 
acres;
    (3) Restoration of wetlands greater than or equal to 100 acres 
aggregate;
    (4) Installation or enlargement of irrigation facilities, including 
storage reservoirs, diversions, dams, wells, pumping plants, canals, 
pipelines, and sprinklers designed to irrigate greater than 320 acres 
aggregate;
    (5) Land clearing operations (for example, vegetation removal, 
including tree stumps; grading) involving greater than or equal to 40 
acres aggregate;
    (6) Clear cutting operations for timber involving greater than or 
equal to 100 acres aggregate;
    (7) Construction or major enlargement of a Concentrated Aquatic 
Animal Production Facility (CAAP), as defined by the U.S. Environmental 
Protection Agency in 40 CFR 122.24;
    (8) Construction of commercial facilities or structures for 
processing or handling of farm production or for public sales;
    (9) Construction or major expansion of a large CAFO, as defined by 
the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in 40 CFR 122.23, regardless 
of the type of manure handling system or water system;
    (10) Refinancing of a newly constructed large CAFO, as defined by 
the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in 40 CFR 122.23, or CAAPs as 
defined by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in 40 CFR 122.24 
through 122.25, that has been in operation for 24 months or less;
    (11) Issuance of substantively discretionary FSA regulations, 
Federal Register notices, or amendments to existing programs that 
authorize FSA or CCC funding for proposed actions that have the 
potential to significantly affect the human environment;
    (12) Newly authorized programs that involve substantively 
discretionary proposed actions and are specified in Sec.  799.32(d);
    (13) Any FSA proposed action that has been determined to trigger 
extraordinary circumstances specified in Sec.  799.33(c); and
    (14) Any proposed action that will involve the planting of a 
potentially invasive species, unless exempted by Federal law.
    (b) Proposed actions that do not reach the thresholds defined in 
paragraph (a) of this section, unless otherwise identified under Sec.  
799.31(b) or Sec.  799.32(c), require a review using the ESW to 
determine if an EA is warranted.


Sec.  799.42  Contents of an EA.

    (a) The EA should include at least the following:
    (1) FSA cover sheet;
    (2) Executive summary;
    (3) Table of contents;
    (4) List of acronyms;
    (5) A discussion of the purpose of and need for the proposed 
action;
    (6) A discussion of alternatives, if the proposed action involves 
unresolved conflicts concerning the uses of available resources;
    (7) A discussion of the existing pre-project environment and the 
potential environmental impacts of the proposed action, with reference 
to the significance of the impact as specified in Sec.  799.8 and 40 
CFR 1508.27;
    (8) Likelihood of any significant impact and potential mitigation 
measures that FSA will require, if needed, to support a FONSI;
    (9) A list of preparers and contributors;
    (10) A list of agencies, tribes, groups, and persons solicited for 
feedback and the process used to solicit that feedback;
    (11) References; and
    (12) Appendixes, if appropriate.
    (b) FSA will prepare a Supplemental EA, and place the supplements 
in the administrative record of the original EA, if:
    (1) Substantial changes occur in the proposed action that are 
relevant to environmental concerns previously presented, or
    (2) Significant new circumstances or information arise that are 
relevant to environmental concerns and to the proposed action or its 
impacts.
    (c) FSA may request that a program participant prepare or provide 
information for FSA to use in the EA and may use the program 
participant's information in the EA or Supplemental EA, provided that 
FSA also:
    (1) Independently evaluates the environmental issues;
    (2) Takes responsibility for the scope and content of the EA and 
the process utilized, including any required public involvement; and
    (3) Prepares the FONSI or NOI to prepare an EIS.


Sec.  799.43  Tiering.

    (a) As specified in 40 CFR 1508.28, tiering is a process of 
covering general environmental review in a broad PEA, followed by 
subsequent narrower scope analysis to address specific proposed 
actions, action stages, or sites. FSA will use tiering when FSA 
prepares a broad PEA and subsequently prepares a site-specific ESW, EA, 
or PEA for a proposed action included within the program addressed in 
the original, broad PEA.
    (b) When FSA uses tiering in a broad PEA, the subsequent ESW, EA, 
or PEA will:
    (1) Summarize the issues discussed in the broader statement;
    (2) Incorporate by reference the discussions from the broader 
statement and the conclusions carried forward into the subsequent 
tiered analysis and documentation; and
    (3) State where the PEA document is available.


Sec.  799.44  Adoption of an EA prepared by another entity.

    (a) FSA may adopt an EA prepared by another Federal agency, State, 
or Tribal government if the EA meets the requirements of this subpart.
    (b) If FSA adopts another agency's EA and issues a FONSI, FSA will 
follow the procedures specified in Sec.  799.44.


Sec.  799.45  Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI).

    (a) If after completing the EA, FSA determines that the proposed 
action will not have a significant effect on the quality of the human 
environment, FSA will issue a FONSI.
    (b) The FONSI will include the reasons FSA determined that the 
proposed action will have no significant environmental impacts.
    (c) If the decision to issue the FONSI is conditioned upon the 
implementation of measures (mitigation actions) to ensure that impacts 
will be held to a

[[Page 51295]]

nonsignificant level, the FONSI must include an enforceable commitment 
to implement such measures on the part of FSA, and any applicant or 
other party responsible for implementing the measures will be 
responsible for the commitments outlined in the FONSI.

Subpart E--Environmental Impact Statements


Sec.  799.50  Purpose of an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).

    (a) FSA will prepare an EIS for proposed actions that are expected 
to have a significant effect on the human environment. The purpose of 
the EIS is to ensure that all significant environmental impacts and 
reasonable alternatives are fully considered in connection with the 
proposed action.
    (b) FSA will prepare a PEIS for proposed actions that are broad in 
scope or similar in nature and may cumulatively have significant 
environmental impacts, although the impact of the individual proposed 
actions may be insignificant.


Sec.  799.51   When an EIS is required.

    (a) The following FSA proposed actions normally require preparation 
of an EIS:
    (1) Legislative proposals, not including appropriations requests, 
with the potential for significant environmental impact that are 
drafted and submitted to Congress by FSA;
    (2) Broad Federal assistance programs administered by FSA, 
involving significant financial assistance or payments to program 
participants, that may have significant cumulative impacts on the human 
environment; and
    (3) Ongoing programs that have been found through previous 
environmental analyses to have major environmental concerns.
    (b) [Reserved]


Sec.  799.52  Notice of intent to prepare an EIS.

    (a) FSA will publish a Notice of Intent to prepare an EIS in the 
Federal Register and, depending on the scope of the proposed action, 
may publish a notice in other media.
    (b) The notice will include the following:
    (1) A description of the proposed action and possible alternatives;
    (2) A description of FSA's proposed scoping process, including 
information about any public meetings; and
    (3) The name of an FSA point of contact who can receive input and 
answer questions about the proposed action and the preparation of the 
EIS.


Sec.  799.53  Contents of an EIS.

    (a) FSA will prepare the EIS as specified in 40 CFR part 1502 and 
in section 102 of NEPA (42 U.S.C. 4332).
    (b) The EIS should include at least the following:
    (1) An FSA cover sheet;
    (2) An executive summary explaining the major conclusions, areas of 
controversy, and the issues to be resolved;
    (3) A table of contents;
    (4) List of acronyms and abbreviations;
    (5) A brief statement explaining the purpose and need of the 
proposed action;
    (6) A detailed discussion of the environmental impacts of the 
proposed action and reasonable alternatives to the proposed action, a 
description and brief analysis of the alternatives considered but 
eliminated from further consideration, the no-action alternative, FSA's 
preferred alternative(s), and discussion of appropriate mitigation 
measures;
    (7) A discussion of the affected environment;
    (8) A detailed discussion of:
    (i) The direct and indirect environmental consequences, including 
any cumulative impacts, of the proposed action and of the alternatives;
    (ii) Unavoidable adverse environmental effects;
    (iii) The relationship between local short-term uses of the 
environment and long-term ecosystem productivity;
    (iv) Any irreversible and irretrievable commitments of resources;
    (vi) Possible conflicts with the objectives of Federal, regional, 
State, local, regional, and Tribal land use plans, policies, and 
controls for the area concerned;
    (vii) Energy and natural depletable resource requirements, 
including, but not limited to natural gas and oil, and conservation 
potential of the alternatives and mitigation measures; and
    (viii) Urban quality, historic, and cultural resources and the 
design of the built environment, including the reuse and conservation 
potential of the alternatives and mitigation measures;
    (9) In the draft EIS, a list of all Federal permits, licenses, and 
other entitlements that must be obtained for implementation of the 
proposed action;
    (10) A list of preparers;
    (11) Persons and agencies contacted;
    (12) References, if appropriate;
    (13) Glossary, if appropriate;
    (14) Index;
    (15) Appendixes, if any;
    (16) A list of agencies, organizations, and persons to whom copies 
of the EIS are sent; and
    (17) In the final EIS, a response to substantive comments on 
environmental issues.
    (c) FSA may have a contractor prepare an EIS as specified in 40 CFR 
1506.5(c). If FSA has a contractor prepare an EIS, FSA will:
    (1) Require the contractor to sign a disclosure statement 
specifying it has no financial or other interest in the outcome of the 
proposed action, which will be included in the administrative record; 
and
    (2) Furnish guidance and participate in the preparation of the EIS, 
and independently evaluate the EIS before its approval.


Sec.  799.54  Draft EIS.

    (a) FSA will prepare the draft EIS addressing the information 
specified in Sec.  799.53.
    (b) FSA will circulate the draft EIS as specified in 40 CFR 
1502.19.
    (c) In addition to the requirements of 40 CFR 1502.19, FSA will 
request comments on the draft EIS from:
    (1) Appropriate State and local agencies authorized to develop and 
enforce environmental standards relevant to the scope of the EIS;
    (2) Tribal governments that have interests that could be impacted; 
and
    (3) If the proposed action affects historic properties, the 
appropriate SHPO, THPO, and the Advisory Council on Historic 
Preservation.
    (d) FSA will file the draft EIS with the U.S. Environmental 
Protection Agency as specified in 40 CFR 1506.9 and in accordance with 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency filing requirements (available at 
http://www.epa.gov/compliance/nepa/submiteis/index.html).
    (e) The draft EIS will include a cover sheet with the information 
specified in 40 CFR 1502.11.
    (f) FSA will provide for a minimum 45-day comment period calculated 
from the date the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency publishes the 
NOA of the draft EIS.


Sec.  799.55  Final EIS.

    (a) FSA will prepare the final EIS addressing the information 
specified in Sec.  799.53.
    (b) FSA will evaluate the comments received on the draft EIS and 
respond in the final EIS as specified in 40 CFR 1503.4. FSA will 
discuss in the final EIS any issues raised by commenters that were not 
discussed in the draft EIS and provide a response to those comments.
    (c) FSA will attach substantive comments, or summaries of lengthy 
comments, to the final EIS and will include all comments in the 
administrative record.

[[Page 51296]]

    (d) FSA will circulate the final EIS as specified in 40 CFR 
1502.19.
    (e) FSA will file the final EIS with the U.S. Environmental 
Protection Agency as specified in 40 CFR 1506.9.
    (f) The final EIS will include a cover sheet with the information 
specified in 40 CFR 1502.11.


Sec.  799.56   Supplemental EIS.

    (a) FSA will prepare supplements to a draft or final EIS if:
    (1) Substantial changes occur in the proposed action that are 
relevant to environmental concerns; or
    (2) Significant new circumstances or information arise that are 
relevant to environmental concerns and bearing on the proposed action 
or its impacts.
    (b) The requirements of this subpart for completing the original 
EIS apply to the supplemental EIS, with the exception of the scoping 
process, which is optional.


Sec.  799.57  Tiering.

    (a) As specified in 40 CFR 1508.28, tiering is a process of 
covering general environmental review in a broad PEIS, followed by 
subsequent narrower scope analysis to address specific proposed 
actions, action stages, or sites. FSA will use tiering when FSA 
prepares a broad PEIS and subsequently prepares a site-specific ESW, 
EA, or PEA for a proposed action included within the program addressed 
in the original, broad PEIS.
    (b) When FSA uses tiering in a broad PEIS, the subsequent ESW, EA, 
or PEA will:
    (1) Summarize the issues discussed in the broader statement;
    (2) Incorporate by reference the discussions from the broader 
statement and the conclusions carried forward into the subsequent 
tiered analysis and documentation; and
    (3) State where the PEIS document is available.


Sec.  799.58  Adoption of an EIS prepared by another entity.

    (a) FSA may elect to adopt an EIS prepared by another Federal 
agency, State, or Tribal government if:
    (1) The NECM determines that the EIS and the analyses and 
procedures by which they were developed meet the requirements of this 
part; and
    (2) The agency responsible for preparing the EIS concurs.
    (b) For the adoption of another Federal agency EIS, FSA will follow 
the procedures specified in the CEQ regulations in 40 CFR 1506.3.
    (c) For the adoption of an EIS from a state or tribe that has an 
established state or tribal procedural equivalent to the NEPA process 
(generally referred to as ``mini-NEPA''), FSA will follow the 
procedures specified in the CEQ regulations in 40 CFR 1506.3.


Sec.  799.59  Record of Decision.

    (a) FSA will issue a Record of Decision (ROD) within the time 
periods specified in 40 CFR 1506.10(b) but no sooner than 30 days after 
the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's publication of the NOA of 
the final EIS. The ROD will:
    (1) State the decision reached;
    (2) Identify all alternatives considered by FSA in reaching its 
decision, specifying the alternative or alternatives considered to be 
environmentally preferable;
    (3) Identify and discuss all factors, including any essential 
considerations of national policy, which were considered by FSA in 
making its decision, and state how those considerations entered into 
its decision; and
    (4) State whether all practicable means to avoid or minimize 
environmental harm from the alternative selected have been adopted and, 
if not, explain why these mitigation measures were not adopted. A 
monitoring and enforcement program will be adopted and summarized where 
applicable for any mitigation.
    (b) FSA will distribute the ROD to all parties who request it.
    (c) FSA will publish the ROD or a notice of availability of the ROD 
in the Federal Register.

7 CFR Chapter XIV--Commodity Credit Corporation

PART 1436--FARM STORAGE FACILITY LOAN PROGRAM REGULATIONS

0
28. Revise the authority citation for part 1436 to read as follows:

    Authority: 7 U.S.C. 7971 and 8789; and 15 U.S.C. 714 through 
714p.


Sec.  1436.17  [Removed]

0
29. Remove Sec.  1436.17.

7 CFR Chapter XVIII--Rural Housing Service, Rural Business--Cooperative 
Service, Rural Utilities Service, and Farm Service Agency, Department 
of Agriculture

PART 1940--GENERAL

0
30. The authority citation for part 1940 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301; 7 U.S.C. 1989; and 42 U.S.C. 1480.

Subpart G [Removed]

0
31. Remove subpart G, consisting of Sec. Sec.  1940.301 through 
1940.350 and the appendices exhibits A through M.

Val Dolcini,
Administrator, Farm Service Agency, and Executive Vice President, 
Commodity Credit Corporation.
Lisa Mensah,
Under Secretary, Rural Development.
[FR Doc. 2016-18075 Filed 8-2-16; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 3410-05-P