How to Comment Effectively
Comments on the scope of an EIS or the solar energy study areas are an important contribution from citizens. Comments that contribute to developing alternatives that address the purpose and need for the action are particularly effective.
Comments on the scope of an EIS or the solar energy study areas are an important contribution from citizens. Accordingly, comments should be clear, concise, and relevant to the analysis of the proposed action. Take the time to organize thoughts and edit the document submitted.
The public is encouraged to communicate information and comments on issues it believes the Agencies should address in the PEIS. The Agencies request information and comments on resources in the western United States that utility-scale solar energy development may impact. Comments may address broad issues or specific resources.
Comments that contribute to developing alternatives that address the purpose and need for the action are effective. They are particularly helpful early in the EIS process and should be made, if at all possible, during scoping, to ensure that reasonable alternatives can be analyzed and considered early in the process. Comments that are solution oriented and provide specific examples will be more effective than those that simply oppose the proposed project.
In drafting comments, try to focus on the purpose and need of the proposed action, the proposed alternatives, the assessment of the environmental impacts of those alternatives, and the proposed mitigation. It also helps to be aware of what other types of issues the decisionmaker is considering in relationship to the proposed action.
Commenting is not a form of “voting” on an alternative. The number of negative comments an agency receives does not prevent an action from moving forward. Numerous comments that repeat the same basic message of support or opposition will typically be responded to collectively. In addition, general comments that state an action will have “significant environmental effects” will not help an agency make a better decision unless the relevant causes and environmental effects are explained.
Finally, remember that decisionmakers also receive other information and data such as operational and technical information related to implementing an action that they will have to consider when making a final decision.
For More Information
For more information on public participation in the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process, please consult the following publications:
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