Implementing the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) for Disaster Response, Recovery, and Mitigation Projects

摘要

In the aftermath of a major disaster, communities may need to rebuild, replace, or possibly even relocate a multitude of structures. When recovery activities take place on such a potentially large scale, compliance with any of a number of local, state, and federal laws or regulations may apply. For example, when older buildings must be repaired or demolished, provisions of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) may need to be considered. If rebuilding will take place in a floodplain, provisions of Executive Order 11988 on Floodplain Management may apply. When federal agencies make decisions, such as funding applicant-proposed actions, the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 applies. For example, when federal funding is provided for disaster-related activities, applicants for those funds may be required to assess the environmental impacts of their proposed action. As commonly implemented, NEPA's environmental review requirements are used as a vehicle to identify any other environmental requirements that may apply to a project as well.