These procedures implement section 102(2) of the National Environmental Policy Act by assuring early and adequate consideration of environmental factors in Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) planning and decisionmaking and by promoting the effective, efficient integration of all relevant environmental requirements under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The goal of timely, relevant environmental analysis will be secured principally by adhering to the National Environmental Policy Act implementing regulations, especially provisions pertaining to timing, integration, and scope of analysis. The Administrator of APHIS, or an agency official to whom the Administrator may formally delegate the task, is responsible for overall review of APHIS’ NEPA compliance. Specifically this part lays down rules and regulations regarding its purpose, designation of responsible APHIS official, information and assistance, definitions, classification of actions, early planning for applicants and non- APHIS entities, consultation, major planning and decision points and public involvement, processing and use of environmental documents, and supplementing environmental impact statements.
United States of America