**[RUS ENVIRONMENTAL BULLETIN 1794A-602]{.underline}**

**[CALIFORNIA STATE SUPPLEMENT]{.underline}**

**Table of Contents**

Page Number

[I. General Information And Policy]{.underline} 1-5

II\. List Of Exhibits

  ----------- ------------------------------------------------ ----------
  Exhibit A   Environmental Report Checklist For Projects With 6-14
              A CEQA Document And USDA Rural Development Has   
              Determined The Project Is A NEPA Categorical     
              Exclusion                                        

  Exhibit B   Environmental Report Checklist For Projects With 15-25
              A CEQA Document And USDA Rural Development Has   
              Determined The Project Requires A NEPA           
              Environmental Assessment                         

  Exhibit C   Environmental Report Checklist For Projects      26-36
              Without An Attached CEQA Document                

  Exhibit D   List Of Contacts For Completing The              37-38
              Environmental Report                             

  Exhibit E   A List Of Abbreviations And Definitions.         39

  Exhibit F   List Of Websites To Download Referenced RUS      40
              Environmental And Engineering Procedures And     
              Forms.                                           

  Exhibit G   A Narrative Flowchart Outlining The              41-46
              Environmental Process.                           

  Exhibit H   A Summary Flowchart Diagram That Shows The       47-49
              Timing And Relationship Of The Applicant's       
              Activities And The RUS Approvals.                

  Exhibit I   A Summary Of RUS Public Notices Requirements.    50

  Exhibit J   SHPO Programmatic Agreement                      51-57

                                                               
  ----------- ------------------------------------------------ ----------

[GENERAL OVERVIEW:]{.underline}

######### USDA Rural Development (USDA RD) is responsible for completing the NEPA process for projects funded by Rural Utilities Service (RUS). USDA RD requires the Applicant to provide both a Preliminary Engineering Report (PER) and a separate "Environmental Report" (ER). The ER will be utilized for documenting compliance with NEPA and other environmental regulations.

The PER must comply with RUS Bulletins 1780-2, 1780-3, 1780-4, or 1780-5
as applicable. The Applicant can obtain these from the local USDA RD
office or preferably through the RUS Web Site at
<http://www.usda.gov/rus/water/index.htm> looking under "Regulations",
then under "RUS Regulations", then scrolling down to the document. Two
copies of the PER will be submitted to the local USDA RD processing
office.

The purpose of this "RUS Bulletin 1794A-602, California RUS
Environmental State Supplement" (**State Supplement**) is to facilitate
an efficient and timely completion of the National Environmental Policy
Act (NEPA) environmental review documents. This State Supplement applies
to all RUS funded projects in the State of California.

This State Supplement is also intended to facilitate compliance with
CEQA and NEPA-like requirements for [projects that are jointly
funded]{.underline} with USDA Rural Development that use funds from the
State Water Resource Control Board (SWRCB), the Department of Health
Services (DHS), or the California Department of Housing and Community
Development (HCD).

**The Applicant/Consultant will provide an Environmental Report that is
in compliance with this State Supplement and formatted similar to either
Exhibit A, B or C as applicable.** Exhibit C will not be used on jointly
funded projects utilizing funding from SWRCB or DHS.

Two copies of the Environmental Report checklist and the signature page
will be submitted to the local USDA RD processing office. A copy will
also be provided to the SWRCB, DHS or HCD if the project may involve
their funding.

> State Water Resources Control Board
>
> Division of Clean Water Programs
>
> Environmental Services Unit
>
> P.O. Box 944212
>
> Sacramento, CA 94244-2120 (919) 227-4572
>
> Department of Health Services
>
> Environmental Coordinator
>
> Environmental Review Unit
>
> Safe Drinking Water Revolving Fund Program
>
> Division of Drinking Water & Environment Management
>
> P.O. Box 942732
>
> 601 N. 7^th^ Street, MS 92
>
> Sacramento, CA 94234-7320 (916) 445-2519
>
> Department of Housing and Community Development
>
> P.O. Box 952054
>
> MS 390-2
>
> Sacramento, CA 94252-2054 (916) 445-6000

USDA RD in California will use the California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA) process as the centerpiece of the Environmental Report. The
format outlined in Exhibit A or B allows USDA RD to (1) utilize the CEQA
procedures; and (2) to comply with federal environmental regulations by
supplementing the CEQA document to address the specific federal issues.
Collectively this process allows USDA RD to use a process familiar to
the Applicant, minimizes duplication of effort and comply with federal
cross-cutting regulations.

Usually, the Environmental Report will be submitted in the form of
adding supplemental information to the CEQA document. The Applicant may
combine any required RUS public notices with CEQA required public
notices.

This State Supplement guidance document is comprised of the following
main parts:

1.  Introductory general guidance for completing the RUS engineering and
    environmental process.

2.  A guidance checklist for the Applicant (or their consultant) to use
    in preparing the Environmental Report. This involves using
    [one]{.underline} of the following Exhibits A, B or C.

3.  A list of expert contacts commonly used to complete the
    Environmental Report. See attached Exhibit D.

4.  A list of abbreviations and definitions. See attached Exhibit E.

5.  List of websites to download referenced RUS environmental and
    engineering procedures and forms. See attached Exhibit F.

6.  A narrative flowchart outlining the environmental process. See
    attached Exhibit G.

7.  A summary line diagram flowchart that shows the timing and
    relationship of the Applicant's activities and the USDA RD
    approvals. See attached Exhibit H.

8.  A summary of RUS public notices requirements. See attached Exhibit
    I.

9.  A copy of the USDA RD/SHPO Programmatic Agreement for complying with
    the Historic Preservation Act requirements. See attached Exhibit J.
    Other funding participants may not be allowed to use it so check
    with them.

[BACKGROUND INFORMATION:]{.underline}

The state CEQA environmental review process is similar to the National
Environmental Policy Act in its goals, objectives, purpose, and process.
A primary goal of this State Supplement is to avoid duplication of
effort between NEPA and CEQA, and to provide timely service to the
public. This State Supplement is in compliance with 7 CFR 1794 and
supersedes RUS Bulletin 1794A-602 relating to the environmental
compliance process.

[IMPLEMENTATION PROCEDURES:]{.underline}

The local USDA RD processing office will provide guidance to the
Applicant/Consultant in preparing the Environmental Report. They will
explain to the Applicant, or the Applicant's consultant, the RUS
environmental review process, any required public notices, the use of
this State Supplement, and advise them which exhibit of Exhibit A, B or
C should be used to prepare the Environmental Report. The sequence of
coordination is outlined in the attached Exhibits G and H.

RUS requires Applicants/Consultant, to provide an Environmental Report
utilizing the format outlined in Exhibit A, B or C. Where possible, the
Applicant/Consultant and the USDA RD will collectively utilize the CEQA
environmental document as its primary base document for preparing the
Environmental Report. The CEQA environmental document will include a
supplement to assure that the unique RUS required items are covered. The
supplemented CEQA document will then serve as RUS's required
Environmental Report and NEPA document.

**[The final Environmental Report (ER) will utilize one of the following
formats]{.underline}:**

1.  If the proposed project is classified by RUS as a NEPA "categorical
    exclusion", utilize the attached Exhibit A to prepare the CEQA
    supplement for the required ER.

2.  If the proposed project is classified by RUS as a NEPA
    "environmental assessment", utilize the attached Exhibit B to
    prepare the CEQA supplement for the required ER.

3.  If a CEQA environmental document has not been prepared and there is
    no joint funding with other agencies, the ER may be prepared in
    accordance with Exhibit C. Exhibit C generally can not be used if
    HCD, DHS or SWRCB funds are also involved in the project.

Cultural resource procedures and documentation will be done in
accordance with the most current version of the "SHPO Programmatic
Agreement" (PA) (See Exhibit J). This PA was approved by the California
State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) on November 17, 1995, and
approved by the Western Region of the Advisory Council On Historic
Preservation on December 6, 1995. This PA is specifically for RUS
projects located in California and remains in effect.

Upon request, the local USDA RD processing office will provide to the
preparer of the ER the following completed items. The preparer will
insert these documents into the ER.

1.  Important Farmland Determination, including Form AD-1006.

2.  Form RECD 2006-38, "Civil Rights Impact Analysis Certification".

3.  FEMA Form 81-93, "Standard Flood Hazard Determination". The preparer
    will need to provide a FEMA floodplain map for the local USDA RD
    processing office to be able to prepare this form.

4.  SHPO consultation letters. Normally this letter is not needed since
    many RUS projects are exempt from SHPO review under the terms of the
    SHPO Programmatic Agreement (SHPO PA). The Applicant will provide a
    record search from the regional Information Center if requested by
    the local USDA RD processing office [or if the project will be
    jointly funded with SWRCB or DHS]{.underline}. If the regional
    Information Center recommends a field survey for cultural resources
    the applicant will provide it unless the local USDA RD processing
    office determines that it is not needed. Local USDA RD processing
    office will obtain SHPO consultation if the Information Center
    identifies historic properties in the area of potential effect, or
    the archeological survey identifies properties eligible for
    inclusion in the National Register. [If DHS or SWRCB will be
    providing federal equivalency funding, contact DHS or SWRCB to see
    if they will be obtaining SHPO consultation]{.underline}.

The local USDA RD processing office will determine the appropriate
timing for required preliminary notices. If the local USDA RD processing
office believes public input is needed before the ER is finalized, they
may request that the preliminary notice begin before the ER is
completed.

As necessary, the Applicants or the preparer of the ER will contact the
local USDA RD processing office for assistance in completing the ER and
checklist. Questions concerning the ER process will be directed to the
local USDA RD processing office. When referred by the local USDA RD
processing office, questions relating to this State Supplement may be
directed to Douglas Baxter, P.E., USDA RD State Environmental
Coordinator (530) 792-5811.

## ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT (ER) CHECKLIST 

**[FOR PROJECTS WITH A CEQA DOCUMENT]{.underline}**

**[AND]{.underline}**

######## USDA RURAL DEVELOPMENT HAS DETERMINED THE PROJECT IS A 

## NEPA "CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION" ACTION

[This checklist is to be used only for projects that (1) have a
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) environmental document and
(2) a NEPA environmental assessment is not required.]{.underline} This
checklist is also intended to facilitate compliance with CEQA and NEPA
like requirements for projects [that are jointly funded]{.underline}
with USDA Rural Development that use funds from the State Water Resource
Control Board (SWRCB), the Department of Health Services (DHS); or the
California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD).

A supplemented CEQA document will serve as RUS's required Environmental
Report (ER). The CEQA document must be processed at least through the
completion of the "Initial Study" or "Notice of Exemption" to be used as
the base document for the proposed ER.

RUS recognizes that the CEQA environmental review process is very
similar to the National Environmental Policy Act in its goals,
objectives, purpose, and process. Duplication of effort should be
avoided by incorporating the CEQA process into the ER. The following
checklist is intended to assist in this process and to comply with Rural
Utilities Service (RUS) environmental regulations, 7 CFR, Part 1794.

The preparer of the proposed ER should contact the local USDA RD
processing office. The processing office, in consultation with the USDA
RD State Environmental Coordinator, will determine the appropriate
checklist to use for this project.

Items listed in the following checklist must be addressed in the format
of a supplement to the CEQA document. This can be done by addressing
them either (1) in the CEQA document or (2) by providing a separate
supplemental document to the CEQA document. The items in the checklist
are those supplemental items needed for USDA RD to complete the NEPA
process and to assure compliance with federal environmental regulations.
Items normally contained in a CEQA document are not listed on the
checklist except to the point that additional documentation may be
required. This supplemented CEQA document will serve as the RUS required
ER.

When required and as appropriate, the preparer of the ER will consult
with experts from federal, state and local agencies, universities,
consultants or other organizations to assess potential impacts. Each
consultation will be accurately summarized in the supplement to the ER
and include the name, title, telephone number, and organization of the
individual contacted. Written documentation is preferred but not always
possible or essential. Documentation for telephone calls will be signed
and dated. This and related correspondence should be attached to the
supplemented CEQA document as exhibits. Expert consultation is not
normally necessary for most issues unless sensitive environmental
resources are potentially affected.

Each issue or potential environmental impact raised in the assessment
will need to be considered for both the magnitude of the project and its
environmental setting. The amount of analysis and documentation is to be
commensurate with the type and size of the project, the environmental
setting, and the degree of environmental impacts. The ER (CEQA document
with supplement) will give primary effort to analyzing the most relevant
concerns and not just gather standard documentation. In preparing an ER,
each environmental factor listed must be addressed to an appropriate
level.

The ER will need to be a stand-alone document and should not be part of
the Preliminary Engineering Report. However, both documents should be
prepared concurrently when possible. It should be written so that the
general public can understand the issues and evaluations.

Exhibit D lists frequently utilized experts and contacts for preparing
the ER.

Upon request, the local USDA RD processing office will provide to the
preparer of the ER the following completed items. The preparer will
insert these documents into the ER.

1.  Important Farmland Determination, including Form AD-1006.

2.  Form RECD 2006-38, "Civil Rights Impact Analysis Certification".

3.  FEMA Form 81-93, "Standard Flood Hazard Determination".

4.  SHPO consultation letters. Normally this letter is not needed since
    many RUS projects are exempt from SHPO review under the terms of the
    SHPO Programmatic Agreement (SHPO PA). The Applicant will provide a
    record search from the regional Information Center if requested by
    the local USDA RD processing office [or if the project will be
    jointly funded with SWRCB or DHS]{.underline}. If the regional
    Information Center recommends a field survey for cultural resources
    the applicant will provide it unless the local USDA RD processing
    office determines that it is not needed. Local USDA RD processing
    office will obtain SHPO consultation if the Information Center
    identifies historic properties in the area of potential effect, or
    the archeological survey identifies properties eligible for
    inclusion in the National Register. [If DHS or SWRCB will be
    providing federal equivalency funding, contact DHS or SWRCB to see
    if they will be obtaining SHPO consultation.]{.underline}

Please complete the following checklist. **For each checklist item
proceeded by a "\_\_\_\_ " insert the page number** in the blank space
to indicate where that subject is specifically discussed and located in
the ER.

**Two copies of the completed ER (signature cover page, checklist, items
listed in the checklist, and the CEQA document) are to be sent to the
local USDA RD processing office. A copy of the ER will also be provided
to the SWRCB, DHS or HCD if the project may involve their funding.**

**[ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT (ER) COVER PAGE and CHECKLIST]{.underline}**

This cover page and the following checklist will be attached to the
Environmental Report (ER) when it is submitted to the local USDA RD
processing office.

This Exhibit A is completed and attached as a checklist for a
Categorical Exclusion (CE) ER. This project action is a NEPA Categorical
Exclusion action requiring an ER meeting the format outlined in the
following checklist. This level of environmental review is appropriate
and authorized by 7 CFR Part 1794.22(b).

Project Title and Location:
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

The CEQA document is attached. □ Yes □ No

An ER prepared in the format of this Exhibit A is attached. □ Yes □ No

**For each checklist item proceeded by a "\_\_\_\_ " the page number has
been insert** to specifically indicate where the subject information is
discussed either the CEQA document or the supplement to the CEQA
document which collectively constitute the ER document.

> □ Yes □ No

The proposed CEQA Negative Declaration or Draft EIR document was
circulated through the Governor's Office of Planning and Research, State
Clearinghouse (required only if funds are or may be coming from DHS or
SWRCB).

□ Yes □ No, but it will be done. □ No, this funding situation does not
apply.

The project was determined to be exempt from CEQA documentation
requirements and the Notice of Exemption is attached.

□ Yes □ No, project is not exempt from CEQA.

If a CEQA exemption determination was made, the exemption was reviewed
by DHS and/or SWRCB (required only if funds are or may be coming from
DHS or SWRCB). DHS or SWRCB will provide this review in approximately 5
workdays.

□ Yes □ No, this project is not exempt from CEQA or this funding
situation does not apply.

Provided is a written analysis for any resource checked as being
present, affected or converted.

□ Yes □ No, the following environmental resources are not present,
affected or converted.

Name and Title of Person Preparing

Checklist and Environmental Report:

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
Date: \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
Preparer's Phone Number \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Signature of Preparer:
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

[Environmental Report (ER) Checklist]{.underline}

[For Projects With A CEQA Document]{.underline}

[And]{.underline}

[USDA Rural Development Has Determined The Project Is A]{.underline}

[NEPA Categorical Exclusion]{.underline}

Supplement the CEQA document as requested below.

Attach the signature cover page, the following checklist, and the CEQA
supplement to the CEQA document. Send two copies of the completed ER
(signature cover page, checklist, items listed in the checklist, and the
CEQA document) are to be sent to the local USDA RD processing office. A
copy of the ER will also be provided to the SWRCB, DHS or HCD if the
project may involve their funding.

When the environmental issues and resources are not affected state the
basis for the determination.

Provide a written analysis for any resource checked as being present,
affected or converted.

Attach any letters, maps, surveys, aerial photos, soil maps, etc.,
needed to explain and document the facts presented.

**[General Items:]{.underline}**

**Insert Referenced Page or**

**Exhibit Number(s) in Blanks Below.**

**N/A may apply if explained.**

\_\_\_\_ Attach the CEQA "Initial Study" or "Notice of Exemption", and
if available, any other CEQA environmental documents. Include related
exhibits and attachments to these documents.

\_\_\_\_ Attach map(s) to show location of proposed work and the service
area.

\_\_\_\_ Attach FEMA floodplain map for the service area.

\_\_\_\_ Upon request, the local USDA RD processing office will provide
to the preparer of the ER the following completed items. The preparer
will insert these documents into the ER.

> \_\_\_\_ Important Farmland Determination, including Form AD-1006.

\_\_\_\_ Form RECD 2006-38, "Civil Rights Impact Analysis
Certification".

> \_\_\_\_ FEMA Form 81-93, "Standard Flood Hazard Determination".
>
> \_\_\_\_ SHPO consultation letters. Normally this letter is not needed
> since many RUS projects are exempt from SHPO review under the terms of
> the SHPO Programmatic Agreement (SHPO PA). The Applicant will provide
> a record search from the regional Information Center if requested by
> the local USDA RD processing office [or if the project will be jointly
> funded with SWRCB or DHS]{.underline}. If the regional Information
> Center recommends a field survey for cultural resources the applicant
> will provide it unless the local USDA RD processing office determines
> that it is not needed. Local USDA RD processing office will obtain
> SHPO consultation if the Information Center identifies historic
> properties in the area of potential effect, or the archeological
> survey identifies properties eligible for inclusion in the National
> Register. If DHS or SWRCB will be providing federal equivalency
> funding, contact DHS or SWRCB to see if they will be obtaining SHPO
> consultation.

\_\_\_\_ [Document if the project **will or may** affect a federally
listed endangered or threatened species or listed critical habitant. The
expert's input must make a clear determination of no affect or the U.S.
Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) review/consultation is
needed.]{.underline} The determination should be based on utilizing
experts such as State Fish and Game Department offices, biologists from
other federal agencies, the results of the Applicant's or consultant's
biological surveys, or the USFWS. The quickest determinations are
obtained by either contacting the local State Fish and Game Department
offices or having a biological survey completed. Experts need not be
consulted if the project obviously will not affect plants and animals
either on or off-site. This needs to be explained. Examples might
include converting the use of an existing building or replacing a
pipeline in a paved road.

\_\_\_\_ Identify the watershed basin in which the project is located.

\_\_\_\_ Regarding the Federal Air Conformity Rule de minimis
thresholds, discuss if the project's construction and operation would
generate air emissions equal to or in excess of 10 tons per year with
respect to any criteria pollutant identified in the Federal Clean Air
Act (including PM10). If the 10 tons per year limit is exceeded, provide
the actual emissions estimate and identify any measures that would
mitigate impacts to air quality.

\_\_\_\_ Attach a list of any mitigation measures that are recommended
in the CEQA document or needed due to potential adverse impacts.

\_\_\_\_ Attach a mitigation measures implementation schedule.

\_\_\_\_ Complete and attach the following "Evaluation of Impact to
Resource" information sheet.

**[SHPO and Tribal Items:]{.underline}**

\_\_\_\_ Discuss if **Tribal lands,** any federally listed sites on the
**National Register of Historic Places** or sites eligible for listing
are in the area of potential affect for the project. This list is
available on the Internet and listed in Exhibit D to this State
Supplement. Discuss the results of the review of the National Register
of Historic Places.

\_\_\_\_ USDA RD has a Programmatic Agreement (SHPO PA) with the
California State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) that frequently
eliminates the need for SHPO consultation (see Exhibit J). **Contact the
local USDA RD processing office** and ask them how to proceed with the
project under the terms of the SHPO PA. Depending on the project,
archeological surveys and contacting the regional office of the
California Historical Resource Information System (Regional Information
Center) may not be needed. USDA RD will require a public notice if the
project will have an adverse affect on a listed cultural resource.

\_\_\_\_ Indicate if the project activity is **listed in Appendix A of
the SHPO Programmatic Agreement** (PA) (see Exhibit J) as having a
minimal level of activity or ground disturbance. If proposed action is
exempt from needing Regional Information Center comments, identify the
[applicable exemption paragraph in the Appendix A]{.underline} of the
SHPO PA.

> Appendix A of the SHPO PA lists project activities "...that do not
> involve extensive ground disturbance." The environmental setting of
> the project must be considered in determining how much ground can be
> disturbed and still be within the intent of the SHPO PA. For example,
> if a Regional Information Center "record search" has been done on a
> pipeline under an existing paved road, an extensive length of pipeline
> could be installed within the intent of the SHPO PA. By contrast, the
> SHPO PA would allow very little excavation without a record search if
> the pipeline were proposed to be in an unpaved utility corridor in a
> sensitive area such as along a river.

\_\_\_\_ Provide a record search from the California Historical Resource
Information System

> **(Regional Information Center), if**:

1.  The review for this proposed action is not exempted by the SHPO PA,

2.  The project will be jointly funded with SWRCB or DHS,

3.  If requested by the local USDA RD processing office, or

4.  Site conditions warrant their input.

Although it may not be required, these record searches are encouraged
except for very small activities.

\_\_\_\_ **If** **requested** by the Regional Information Center or the
local USDA RD processing office, provide an archeological survey. If the
Regional Information Center recommends a field survey for cultural
resources, the applicant will provide it unless the local USDA RD
processing office determines that it is not needed. The need for an
archeological survey will be determined by considering the information
provided by the Regional Information Center, the amount of land
disturbed, the amount of undisturbed land affected, and proximity of the
project's area of potential affects to documented archeological or
historic sites.

\_\_\_\_ Request and include a SHPO concurance letter if required.
Normally this is not needed since many RUS projects are exempt from SHPO
review under the terms of the SHPO PA. If DHS or SWRCB will be providing
federal equivalency funding, contact DHS or SWRCB to see if they will be
obtaining a SHPO consultation. The Applicant or the local USDA RD
processing office will provide SHPO an analysis and determination, and
ask for SHPO to concur. Obtain this **SHPO concurance letter if**:

1.  Regional Information Center identifies historic properties or
    archeological sites in the area of potential effect,

2.  Regional the Information Center requests an archeological survey but
    Agency decides it is not needed and it is not done, or

3.  The archeological survey identifies properties possibly eligible for
    inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places.

**[Tribal consultation:]{.underline}**

Provide appropriate tribal consultation documentation and analysis.
Tribal consultation will be done as part of the NEPA and National
Historic Preservation Act, Section 106 consultation process.

The Historic Preservation Act requires that "a reasonable and good faith
effort" will be made to conduct tribal consultation. This will be done
in a manner that considers relevant factors such as; the size and type
of project; magnitude of land disturbance; location of the project in
proximity to tribal land; if the land has already been disturbed; and if
there are historic or archeological sites in the area. Any decision not
to initiate further tribal consultation must be explained.

\_\_\_\_ Provide appropriate Tribal consultation analysis and
documentation as explained below.

**Do one of the following two items** as applicable:

1\. \_\_\_\_ If the project's [activity is **listed** in Appendix A of
the SHPO PA]{.underline}, further tribal consultation is not required
unless the activity is on tribal land. This is due to the minimal nature
of the project and specific nature of the project's setting. This must
be explained in the ER. Conclude the analysis by **writing a summary**
of potential to impact areas of tribal concern. Further tribal
consultation as outline below is not required.

2\. \_\_\_\_ If the project's [activity is **not listed** in Appendix A
of the SHPO PA or the project is located on tribal land]{.underline},
the following consultation documentation is required. Conclude the
analysis by **writing a summary** of potential to impact areas of tribal
concern **after doing at least one of the following two options**:

A. \_\_\_ **Option 1 (Preferred):** [Provide a copy of comments from the
California Native American Heritage Commission]{.underline} (NAHC) in
the NEPA document. NAHC review comments may be available as part of the
state's California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) process. The NAHC
has access to important information relating to properties of
traditional religious and cultural importance, i.e. traditional cultural
properties and the "Native American Contact List". Indicate if the NAHC
database lists any federally recognized Indian tribe(s) in the project's
area of potential affect. If there are none listed then summarize
findings and no further consultation is required. If federally
recognized Indian tribe(s) are listed, contact them as noted in
Paragraph C below.

> [To obtain NAHC comments]{.underline} provide them with a brief
> description of the project and an 8 ½x11 map of the project's
> location. Please state the range, township, section, and sub-section,
> the name of the USGS quad map, and return Fax number. Requests may be
> Faxed to 916-657-5390. It will take about 10-15 days for a response.
> Their address is California Native American Heritage Commission, 915
> Capital Mall, Room 364, Sacramento, CA 95814, phone 916-653-4082.
> **Or**

B. \_\_\_ **Option 2:** [Provide a printout of the Native American
Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) Consultation Database
search]{.underline}. The National Park Service **NAGPRA Consultation
Database** can be accessed at http://www.cast.uark.edu/other/nps/nacd/
or call them at (202) 343-8161. At this website, the Applicant is to
complete the search by entering the state and county for the project's
location. If the project is physically located near other counties, a
search of those counties should also be included. The query will ask for
the "Report Type" and the response should be for a "Full Report".
Indicate if the NAGPRA database search lists any federally recognized
Indian tribe(s) in the project's area of potential affect. If there are
none listed then summarize findings and no further consultation is
required. If federally recognized Indian tribe(s) are listed, contact
them as noted in Paragraph C below.

C. \_\_\_ Contact any federally recognized Indian tribe(s) that might be
affected by the project as determined from Paragraphs A or B above.
Document that the Applicant wrote (on behalf of USDA Rural Development)
**letters to all the tribes** recommended by the NAHC **or** listed in
the NAGPRA Consultation Database search that are near the project site.
The letters should be addressed to the tribal contact persons listed in
the NAGPRA Consultation Database or as directed by NAHC. The letter will
describe the project, the amount of area that will be disturbed, and the
location of the proposed work.

Each tribe is to be advised that they will have 30 days to provide
comments. Applicant shall make follow-up phone calls to see if the tribe
desires to provide comments. This comment period may run concurrently
with other required public notices. If tribal comments are received,
they are to be evaluated and considered as part of the NEPA process
prior to signing the NEPA document. USDA Rural Development may proceed
with finalizing the NEPA process if a response is not received within
the comment period.

\_\_\_\_ Include a copy of any comments received from any tribe.

**[Housing and Urban Development requirements:]{.underline}**

The following items marked as **"HCD requirement" are only required if**
the project involves funds from the California Department of Housing and
Community Development (HCD) or they might appear applicable to the
project.

1\. Noise Abatement and Control. (HCD requirement)

\_\_\_\_ Determine if the project involves development of noise
sensitive uses, is within line-of-sight of an arterial roadway or
railroad, or subject to substantial noise roadway or railroad or an
airport that would have an ambient noise level of greater than 65 Day
Night Average Sound Level (LDN) based on the Housing and Urban
Development (HUD) Noise Assessment Guide (NAG). (HCD requirement)

\_\_\_\_ If noise generation or off-site noise is greater than 65 LDN,
apply the noise standard to the project approval decision and consider
the application of the noise attenuation measures listed in NAG, pages
39-40. (HCD requirement)

2\. Explosive or Flammable Operations: (HCD requirement)

\_\_\_\_ Document that the project is located an Acceptable Separation
Distance (ASD) from any above-ground explosive or flammable fuels, or
chemicals containers according to "Sitting of HUD-Assisted Projects Near
Hazardous Facilities" (HUD Manual's Appendix F, pages 51-52). Also,
document that the project will expose neither people nor buildings to
such hazards. (HCD requirement)

\_\_\_\_ If applicable, mitigate the hazard (per 24 CFR 51.205) with the
construction of a barrier of adequate size and strength to protect the
project from the explosive or flammable hazard. (HCD requirement)

3\. Toxic Chemicals and Radioactive Materials: (HCD requirement)

\_\_\_\_ Document by contacting appropriate federal, state, or local
oversight agencies, that the project does not involve or promote new
development for habitation within one mile of a National Priority List
(NPL "Superfund") site; within 2,000 feet of a CERCLIS site; nor is
adjacent to any other known or suspected sites contaminated with toxic,
radioactive, or hazardous materials, unless a federal, state, or local
authoritative source determines the site does not pose a health hazard.
(HCD requirement)

\_\_\_\_ If the project involves a proposed water system, determine if
hazardous materials will affect the water quality either at the water's
source, treatment facility, or by absorption through the distribution
pipe material. (HCD requirement)

\_\_\_\_ If a project involves property acquisition, include the results
of a Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment if any portion of the
acquired property was used for commercial or industrial use, or which
had significant quantities of chemicals stored, used, or disposed of on
the property. Normally, land previously used for farm fields,
residential development, or land that has not previously been developed
does not require a Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment. Phase 1
Environmental Site Assessments will be done in accordance with American
Society For Testing and Materials (ASTM) Standard E-1527. (HCD
requirement)

4\. Airport Clear Zones and Accident Potential Zones: (HCD requirement)

\_\_\_\_ Document that the project is not within an Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA) designated civilian airport Runway Clear Zone
(RCZ), or within a military airfield Clear Zone (CZ) or Accident
Potential Zone (APZ), based upon information from the airport or
military airfield administrator identifying the boundaries of such
zones. It is HUD policy not to provide any development assistance,
subsidy or insurance in the RCZs or CZs unless the project will not be
frequently used or occupied by people, and the airport operator provides
written assurances that there are no plans to purchase the project site.
(HCD requirement)

**Evaluation of Impact to Resource**

**(Complete and Check Applicable Items)**

+----------------------------------------+---+---+----+----+-----+------+
| **Resource**                           | * |   | *  |    |     | **Mi |
|                                        | * |   | *E |    |     | tiga |
|                                        | R |   | ff |    |     | tion |
|                                        | e |   | ec |    |     | Nee  |
|                                        | s |   | ts |    |     | ded^ |
|                                        | o |   | To |    |     | 2^** |
|                                        | u |   | Re |    |     |      |
|                                        | r |   | so |    |     | **(C |
|                                        | c |   | ur |    |     | heck |
|                                        | e |   | ce |    |     | If   |
|                                        | P |   | ** |    |     | Reso |
|                                        | r |   |    |    |     | urce |
|                                        | e |   |    |    |     | Is   |
|                                        | s |   |    |    |     | Pres |
|                                        | e |   |    |    |     | ent, |
|                                        | n |   |    |    |     | A    |
|                                        | t |   |    |    |     | ffec |
|                                        | * |   |    |    |     | ted, |
|                                        | * |   |    |    |     | Or   |
|                                        |   |   |    |    |     | Conv |
|                                        |   |   |    |    |     | erte |
|                                        |   |   |    |    |     | d)** |
+----------------------------------------+---+---+----+----+-----+------+
|                                        | * | * | ** | *  | *   |      |
|                                        | * | * | Re | *R | *Re |      |
|                                        | Y | N | so | es | sou |      |
|                                        | e | o | ur | ou | rce |      |
|                                        | s | * | ce | rc | Is  |      |
|                                        | ^ | * | N  | es | C   |      |
|                                        | 3 |   | ot | A  | onv |      |
|                                        | ^ |   | Af | ff | ert |      |
|                                        | * |   | fe | ec | ed^ |      |
|                                        | * |   | ct | te | 1,3 |      |
|                                        |   |   | ed | d^ | ^** |      |
|                                        |   |   | ** | 3^ |     |      |
|                                        |   |   |    | ** |     |      |
+----------------------------------------+---+---+----+----+-----+------+
| Formally Classified Lands, i.e.,       |   |   |    |    | N/A |      |
| National Parks and Monuments; National |   |   |    |    |     |      |
| Landmarks or Battlefield Sites;        |   |   |    |    |     |      |
| National Historic Sites or Parks;      |   |   |    |    |     |      |
| Wilderness Areas; Wild and Scenic      |   |   |    |    |     |      |
| Rivers; Wildlife Refuges; National     |   |   |    |    |     |      |
| Seashores; National Trail System;      |   |   |    |    |     |      |
| state parks; federally administered    |   |   |    |    |     |      |
| forest or other land; or Native        |   |   |    |    |     |      |
| American owned and leases administered |   |   |    |    |     |      |
| by the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA). |   |   |    |    |     |      |
+----------------------------------------+---+---+----+----+-----+------+
| Important Farmland or Forestland.      |   |   |    |    |     |      |
+----------------------------------------+---+---+----+----+-----+------+
| 100-Year Floodplain (500-Year          |   |   |    |    |     |      |
| Floodplain if facility is a critical   |   |   |    |    |     |      |
| facility or involves hazardous         |   |   |    |    |     |      |
| material).                             |   |   |    |    |     |      |
+----------------------------------------+---+---+----+----+-----+------+
| Wetlands.                              |   |   |    |    |     |      |
+----------------------------------------+---+---+----+----+-----+------+
| Cultural Resources, i.e., historic     |   |   |    |    |     |      |
| properties, archeological sites,       |   |   |    |    |     |      |
| listed on or potential to be listed on |   |   |    |    |     |      |
| the National Register of Historic      |   |   |    |    |     |      |
| Places.                                |   |   |    |    |     |      |
+----------------------------------------+---+---+----+----+-----+------+
| Biological Resource, i.e., federally   |   |   |    |    | N/A |      |
| listed threatened/endangered species,  |   |   |    |    |     |      |
| critical habitat, or state listed.     |   |   |    |    |     |      |
+----------------------------------------+---+---+----+----+-----+------+
| Water Quality (Involving National      |   |   |    |    | N/A |      |
| Pollutant Discharge Elimination System |   |   |    |    |     |      |
| Permit, water appropriation permits,   |   |   |    |    |     |      |
| or areas designated by EPA as a sole   |   |   |    |    |     |      |
| source aquifer).                       |   |   |    |    |     |      |
+----------------------------------------+---+---+----+----+-----+------+
| Coastal Zone Management Area. Document |   |   |    |    | N/A |      |
| compliance if in a Coastal Zone        |   |   |    |    |     |      |
| Management Area.                       |   |   |    |    |     |      |
+----------------------------------------+---+---+----+----+-----+------+
| Miscellaneous issues, such as, air     |   |   |    |    | N/A |      |
| quality, seismic, mudslide areas,      |   |   |    |    |     |      |
| transportation, noise, odor, visual    |   |   |    |    |     |      |
| impacts, traffic, etc.                 |   |   |    |    |     |      |
+----------------------------------------+---+---+----+----+-----+------+
| **Other Issues Of Concern To Be        | * | * |    |    |     |      |
| Documented**                           | * | * |    |    |     |      |
|                                        | Y | N |    |    |     |      |
|                                        | e | o |    |    |     |      |
|                                        | s | * |    |    |     |      |
|                                        | * | * |    |    |     |      |
|                                        | * |   |    |    |     |      |
+----------------------------------------+---+---+----+----+-----+------+
| Are there socio-economic/environmental |   |   |    |    |     |      |
| justice impacts to minority or         |   |   |    |    |     |      |
| low-income areas?                      |   |   |    |    |     |      |
+----------------------------------------+---+---+----+----+-----+------+
| Is the project proposal controversial  |   |   |    |    | N/A |      |
| for environmental reasons? If so,      |   |   |    |    |     |      |
| attach a summary of the controversy,   |   |   |    |    |     |      |
| any actions taken, and resolutions     |   |   |    |    |     |      |
| necessary to respond to the concerns.  |   |   |    |    |     |      |
+----------------------------------------+---+---+----+----+-----+------+
| Is the project controversial for other |   |   |    |    |     |      |
| than environmental reasons? If so,     |   |   |    |    |     |      |
| attach a summary of the controversy,   |   |   |    |    |     |      |
| any actions taken, and resolutions     |   |   |    |    |     |      |
| necessary to respond to the concerns.  |   |   |    |    |     |      |
+----------------------------------------+---+---+----+----+-----+------+
| Does the project have any              |   |   |    |    |     |      |
| extraordinary circumstances, which may |   |   |    |    |     |      |
| have a significant environmental       |   |   |    |    |     |      |
| effect?                                |   |   |    |    |     |      |
+----------------------------------------+---+---+----+----+-----+------+

1.  Refers to conversion of Important Farmland, construction or location
    of a facility (not utility lines) in a floodplain or wetland, or an
    adverse effect to a cultural resource pursuant to Section 106,
    National Historic Preservation Act (36 CFR 800). If any of these
    boxes are checked, a preliminary and final public notice are
    required, see Section 5.0 in RUS Bulletin 1794A-602.

2.  Check only when mitigation measures are required. Summarize and
    attach a list of all mitigation measures required due to potential
    adverse impacts for the proposed project. Include mitigation
    measures recommended in the CEQA document. Required mitigation
    measures will be listed in the Letter of Conditions for USDA RD
    funding.

3.  **Provide an attached written analysis for any resource checked as
    being present, affected or converted.**

    **[ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT (ER) CHECKLIST]{.underline}**

**[FOR PROJECTS WITH A CEQA DOCUMENT]{.underline}**

**[AND]{.underline}**

**[USDA RURAL DEVELOPMENT HAS DETERMINED]{.underline}**

**[THE PROJECT REQUIRES A NEPA "ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT"]{.underline}**

[This checklist is to be used only for projects that have (1) a
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) environmental document and
(2) USDA Rural Development (USDA RD) is required to prepare a NEPA
environmental assessment.]{.underline} This checklist is also intended
to facilitate compliance with CEQA and NEPA-like requirements for
[projects that are jointly funded]{.underline} with USDA Rural
Development that use funds from the State Water Resource Control Board
(SWRCB), the Department of Health Services (DHS); or the California
Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD).

A supplemented CEQA document will serve as USDA RD's required
Environmental Report (ER). If the CEQA document is an Environmental
Impact Report (EIR), then it must be processed at least through the
stage of being a "draft EIR" and ready for the "Notice of Completion"
for public review. If a Negative Declaration CEQA document is done, then
it must be completed and ready for issuing a "Notice of Availability".

USDA RD recognizes that the CEQA environmental review process is very
similar to the National Environmental Policy Act in its goals,
objectives, purpose, and process. Duplication of effort should be
avoided by incorporating the CEQA process into the ER. The following
checklist is intended to assist in this process and to comply with Rural
Utilities Service (RUS) environmental regulations, 7 CFR, Part 1794.

The preparer of the proposed ER should contact the local USDA RD
processing office. The processing office will determine in consultation
with the USDA RD State Environmental Coordinator the appropriate
checklist to use for this project.

Items listed in the following checklist must be addressed in the format
of a supplement to the CEQA document. This can be done by addressing
them either (1) in the CEQA document or (2) by providing a separate
supplemental document to the CEQA document. The items in the checklist
are those supplemental items needed for USDA RD to complete the NEPA
process and to assure compliance with federal environmental regulations.
Items normally contained in a CEQA document are not listed on the
checklist except to the point that additional documentation may be
required.

When required and as appropriate, the preparer of the ER will consult
with experts from federal, state and local agencies, universities,
consultants or other organizations to assess potential impacts. Each
consultation will be accurately summarized in the supplement to the ER
and include the name, title, telephone number, and organization of the
individual contacted. Written documentation is preferred but not always
possible or essential. Documentation for telephone calls will be signed
and dated. This and related correspondence should be attached to the
supplemented CEQA document as exhibits. Expert consultation normally is
not necessary for most issues unless sensitive environmental resources
are potentially affected.

Each issue or potential environmental impact raised in the assessment
will need to consider both the magnitude of the project and its
environmental setting. The amount of analysis and documentation is to be
commensurate with the type and size of the project, the environmental
setting, and the degree of environmental impacts. The ER (CEQA document
with supplement) will give primary effort to analyzing the most relevant
concerns and not just gather standard documentation. In preparing an ER,
each environmental factor listed must be addressed to an appropriate
level.

The ER will need to be a stand-alone document and should not be part of
the Preliminary Engineering Report. However, both documents should be
prepared concurrently when possible. It should be written so that the
general public can understand the issues and evaluations.

Exhibit D lists frequently utilized experts and contacts for preparing
the ER.

Upon request, the local USDA RD processing office will provide to the
preparer of the ER the following completed items. The preparer will
insert these documents into the ER.

1.  Important Farmland Determination, including Form AD-1006.

2.  Form RECD 2006-38, "Civil Rights Impact Analysis Certification".

3.  FEMA Form 81-93, "Standard Flood Hazard Determination".

4.  SHPO consultation letters. Normally this letter is not needed since
    many RUS projects are exempt from SHPO review under the terms of the
    SHPO Programmatic Agreement (SHPO PA). The Applicant will provide a
    record search from the regional Information Center if requested by
    the local USDA RD processing office [or if the project will be
    jointly funded with SWRCB or DHS]{.underline}. If the regional
    Information Center recommends a field survey for cultural resources
    the applicant will provide it unless the local USDA RD processing
    office determines that it is not needed. Local USDA RD processing
    office will obtain SHPO consultation if the Information Center
    identifies historic properties in the area of potential effect, or
    the archeological survey identifies properties eligible for
    inclusion in the National Register. If DHS or SWRCB will be
    providing federal equivalency funding, contact DHS or SWRCB to see
    if they will be obtaining SHPO consultation.

Please complete the following checklist. **For each checklist item
proceeded by a "\_\_\_\_ " insert the page number** in the blank space
to indicate where that subject is specifically discussed and located in
the ER.

**Two copies of the completed ER (signature cover page, checklist, items
listed in the checklist, and the CEQA document) are to be sent to the
local USDA RD processing office. A copy of the ER will also be provided
to the SWRCB, DHS or HCD if the project may involve their funding.**

**[ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT (ER) COVER PAGE and CHECKLIST]{.underline}**

This cover page and the following checklist will be attached to the
Environmental Report (ER) when it is submitted to the local USDA RD
processing office.

This Exhibit B is completed as a checklist for an ER for an
Environmental Assessment (EA) that utilizes a CEQA document. This
project action requires an ER for the preparation of an EA. This level
of environmental review is appropriate and authorized by 7 CFR Part
1794.23(b).

Project Title and Location:
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

The CEQA document is attached. □ Yes □ No

An ER prepared in the format of this Exhibit B is attached. □ Yes □ No

**For each checklist item proceeded by a "\_\_\_\_ " the page number has
been insert** to specifically indicate where the subject information is
discussed either in the CEQA document or the supplement to the CEQA
document which collectively constitute the ER.

> □ Yes □ No

The proposed CEQA Negative Declaration or Draft EIR document was
circulated through the Governor's Office of Planning and Research, State
Clearinghouse (required only if funds are or may be coming from DHS or
SWRCB).

□ Yes □ Will be done. □ No, this funding situation does not apply.

The project was determined to be exempt from CEQA documentation
requirements and the Notice of Exemption is attached.

□ Yes □ No, project is not exempt from CEQA.

If a CEQA exemption determination was made, the exemption was reviewed
by DHS and/or SWRCB (required only if funds are or may be coming from
DHS or SWRCB). DHS or SWRCB will provide this review in approximately 5
workdays.

□ Yes □ No, this project is not exempt from CEQA or this funding
situation does not apply.

Provided is a written analysis for any resource checked as being
present, affected or converted. When listed environmental issues and
resources are not affected the basis for the determination is stated.

> □ Yes, written analysis is attached. □ No, the following environmental
> resources are not present, affected or converted. The written basis
> for these determinations is attached.

Name and Title of Person Preparing

Checklist and Environmental Report:

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
Date: \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
Preparer's Phone Number \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Signature of Preparer:
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

## Environmental Report (ER) Checklist For Projects With A CEQA Document

**[And]{.underline}**

**[USDA Rural Development is Required to Prepare a NEPA Environmental
Assessment]{.underline}**

Supplement the CEQA document as requested below.

Attach the signature cover page, the following checklist, and the CEQA
supplement to the CEQA document.

Send two copies of the completed ER (signature cover page, checklist,
items listed in the checklist, and the CEQA document) are to be sent to
the local USDA RD processing office. A copy of the ER will also be
provided to the SWRCB, DHS or HCD if the project may involve their
funding.

Provide a written analysis for any resource checked as being present,
affected or converted.

**­­­1.0 PROJECT'S PURPOSE AND NEED:**

This information is contained in the CEQA document. Utilize the CEQA
document.

**2.0 ALTERNATIVES**

> This information should be contained in the CEQA document. Utilize the
> CEQA document. However, also discuss alternatives to impacting any
> environmental resource that requires a public notice as outlined in
> Exhibit I of this State Supplement. For an affected resource, evaluate
> if there are any practical alternatives, such as, the "No Project"
> alternative, alternative sites or alternative designs.

**3.0 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES:**

> Except as noted, this information is required content in the CEQA
> document. Utilize the CEQA document.
>
> For each subchapter listed below identify the environmental resources
> in the area, the project's affect on them, and any needed mitigation
> measures. Consider the environmental effect of the proposed project
> and feasible alternatives previously identified. Consider direct
> impacts, indirect impacts and any cumulative impacts.
>
> **Insert Referenced Page or**
>
> **Exhibit Number(s) in Blanks Below.**
>
> **N/A may apply if explained.**
>
> \_\_\_\_ When the environmental issues and resources are not affected
> state the basis for the determination.

3.1 USDA Designated Important Farmland. (Includes prime farmland, unique
farmland and farmland designated by the state or local jurisdiction)

Utilize the CEQA document and supplement it as follows.

> \_\_\_\_ Discuss Affected Environment. [If the project may convert
> important farmland, contact the local USDA RD processing office and
> request that they make a farmland determination.]{.underline} The
> local USDA RD processing office will obtain and provide any needed
> farmland determination form, such as Form AD-1006. Should you have
> questions relating to USDA designated important farmland contact the
> local USDA RD processing office. Avoid conversion of farmland unless
> there are no practical alternatives, in which case, appropriate
> mitigation measures must be provided. A farmland determination is not
> needed where the project is focused on serving existing users. [USDA
> RD will require a public notice if USDA designated important farmland
> is converted. However, no public notice is required if impact relates
> only to a utility line where the ground surface will be restored to
> its original grade and condition.]{.underline}
>
> \_\_\_\_ Discuss Environmental Consequence.
>
> \_\_\_\_ Identify Any Needed Mitigation Measures.

3.2 Floodplains.

Utilize the CEQA document and supplement it as follows.

> \_\_\_\_ Discuss Affected Environment. Make sure location of the
> service area and the proposed improvements are shown on the FEMA's
> Federal Insurance Rate Map.
>
> Avoid conversion or adversely affecting floodplains unless there are
> no practical alternatives, in which case, appropriate mitigation
> measures must be provided. [USDA RD will require a public notice if a
> floodplain is affected. However, no public notice is required if
> impact relates only to a utility line where the ground surface will be
> restored to its original grade and condition.]{.underline}
>
> \_\_\_\_ Attach a copy of the FEMA floodplain map if it is not in the
> CEQA document.
>
> \_\_\_\_ For all projects, request the local USDA RD processing office
> provide a completed FEMA Form 81-93, "Standard Flood Hazard
> Determination" to be inserted into the ER.
>
> \_\_\_\_ Discuss Environmental Consequence.
>
> \_\_\_\_ Identify Any Needed Mitigation Measures.

3.3 Wetlands.

Utilize the CEQA document and supplement it as follows:

> \_\_\_\_ Discuss Affected Environment. Avoid conversion of wetlands
> unless there are no practical alternatives, in which case, appropriate
> mitigation measures must be provided. If wetlands are affected
> indicate if the project is covered under an U. S. Army Corp of
> Engineer (USACE) "Nationwide Permit" or if a 404 permit is needed.
> Where there is potential for wetlands obtain a wetland determination
> from NRCS, USACE or a wetland delineator approved by one of these
> agencies to make the wetland determination. [USDA RD will require a
> public notice if a wetland is converted or affected. However, no
> public notice is required if impact relates only to a utility line
> where the ground surface will be restored to its original grade and
> condition.]{.underline}
>
> \_\_\_\_ Document the basis for determining if wetlands may or may not
> be present.
>
> \_\_\_\_ Discuss Environmental Consequence.
>
> \_\_\_\_ Identify Any Needed Mitigation Measures.

3.4 Historic and Cultural Resources.

> \_\_\_\_ Discuss if **Tribal lands,** any federally listed sites on
> the **National Register of Historic Places** or sites eligible for
> listing are in the area of potential affect for the project. This list
> is available on the Internet and listed in Exhibit D to this State
> Supplement. Discuss the results of the review of the National Register
> of Historic Places.
>
> \_\_\_\_ USDA RD has a Programmatic Agreement (SHPO PA) with the
> California State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) that frequently
> eliminates the need for SHPO consultation (see Exhibit J). **Contact
> the local USDA RD processing office** and ask them how to proceed with
> the project under the terms of the SHPO PA. Depending on the project,
> archeological surveys and contacting the regional office of the
> California Historical Resource Information System (Regional
> Information Center) may not be needed. USDA RD will require a public
> notice if the project will have an adverse affect on a listed cultural
> resource.
>
> \_\_\_\_ Indicate if the project activity is **listed in Appendix A of
> the SHPO Programmatic Agreement** (PA) (see Exhibit J) as having a
> minimal level of activity or ground disturbance. If proposed action is
> exempt from needing Regional Information Center comments, identify the
> [applicable exemption paragraph in the Appendix A]{.underline} of the
> SHPO PA.
>
> Appendix A of the SHPO PA lists project activities "...that do not
> involve extensive ground disturbance." The environmental setting of
> the project must be considered in determining how much ground can be
> disturbed and still be within the intent of the SHPO PA. For example,
> if a Regional Information Center "record search" has been done on a
> pipeline under an existing paved road, an extensive length of pipeline
> could be installed within the intent of the SHPO PA. By contrast, the
> SHPO PA would allow very little excavation without a record search if
> the pipeline were proposed to be in an unpaved utility corridor in a
> sensitive area such as along a river.
>
> \_\_\_\_ Provide a record search from the California Historical
> Resource Information System
>
> **(Regional Information Center), if**:

1.  The review for this proposed action is not exempted by the SHPO PA,

2.  The project will be jointly funded with SWRCB or DHS,

3.  If requested by the local USDA RD processing office, or

4.  Site conditions warrant their input.

> Although it may not be required, these record searches are encouraged
> except for very small activities.
>
> \_\_\_\_ **If** **requested** by the Regional Information Center or
> the local USDA RD processing office, provide an archeological survey.
> If the Regional Information Center recommends a field survey for
> cultural resources, the applicant will provide it unless the local
> USDA RD processing office determines that it is not needed. The need
> for an archeological survey will be determined by considering the
> information provided by the Regional Information Center, the amount of
> land disturbed, the amount of undisturbed land affected, and proximity
> of the project's area of potential affects to documented archeological
> or historic sites.
>
> \_\_\_\_ Request and include a SHPO concurance letter if required.
> Normally this is not needed since many RUS projects are exempt from
> SHPO review under the terms of the SHPO PA. If DHS or SWRCB will be
> providing federal equivalency funding, contact DHS or SWRCB to see if
> they will be obtaining a SHPO consultation. The Applicant or the local
> USDA RD processing office will provide SHPO an analysis and
> determination, and ask for SHPO to concur. Obtain this **SHPO
> concurance letter if**:

1.  Regional Information Center identifies historic properties or
    archeological sites in the area of potential effect,

2.  Regional the Information Center requests an archeological survey but
    Agency decides it is not needed and it is not done, or

3.  The archeological survey identifies properties possibly eligible for
    inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places.

> **[Tribal consultation:]{.underline}**
>
> Provide appropriate tribal consultation documentation and analysis.
> Tribal consultation will be done as part of the NEPA and National
> Historic Preservation Act, Section 106 consultation process.
>
> The Historic Preservation Act requires that "a reasonable and good
> faith effort" will be made to conduct tribal consultation. This will
> be done in a manner that considers relevant factors such as; the size
> and type of project; magnitude of land disturbance; location of the
> project in proximity to tribal land; if the land has already been
> disturbed; and if there are historic or archeological sites in the
> area. Any decision not to initiate further tribal consultation must be
> explained.
>
> \_\_\_\_ Provide appropriate Tribal consultation analysis and
> documentation as explained below.
>
> **Do one of the following two items** as applicable:
>
> 1\. \_\_\_\_ If the project's [activity is **listed** in Appendix A of
> the SHPO PA]{.underline}, further tribal consultation is not required
> unless the activity is on tribal land. This is due to the minimal
> nature of the project and specific nature of the project's setting.
> This must be explained in the ER. Conclude the analysis by **writing a
> summary** of potential to impact areas of tribal concern. Further
> tribal consultation as outline below is not required.
>
> 2\. \_\_\_\_ If the project's [activity is **not listed** in Appendix
> A of the SHPO PA or the project is located on tribal
> land]{.underline}, the following consultation documentation is
> required. Conclude the analysis by **writing a summary** of potential
> to impact areas of tribal concern **after doing at least one of the
> following two options**:
>
> A. \_\_\_ **Option 1 (Preferred):** [Provide a copy of comments from
> the California Native American Heritage Commission]{.underline} (NAHC)
> in the NEPA document. NAHC review comments may be available as part of
> the state's California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) process. The
> NAHC has access to important information relating to properties of
> traditional religious and cultural importance, i.e. traditional
> cultural properties and the "Native American Contact List". Indicate
> if the NAHC database lists any federally recognized Indian tribe(s) in
> the project's area of potential affect. If there are none listed then
> summarize findings and no further consultation is required. If
> federally recognized Indian tribe(s) are listed, contact them as noted
> in Paragraph C below.
>
> [To obtain NAHC comments]{.underline} provide them with a brief
> description of the project and an 8 ½x11 map of the project's
> location. Please state the range, township, section, and sub-section,
> the name of the USGS quad map, and return Fax number. Requests may be
> Faxed to 916-657-5390. It will take about 10-15 days for a response.
> Their address is California Native American Heritage Commission, 915
> Capital Mall, Room 364, Sacramento, CA 95814, phone 916-653-4082.
> **Or**
>
> B. \_\_\_ **Option 2:** [Provide a printout of the Native American
> Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) Consultation Database
> search]{.underline}. The National Park Service **NAGPRA Consultation
> Database** can be accessed at http://www.cast.uark.edu/other/nps/nacd/
> or call them at (202) 343-8161. At this website, the Applicant is to
> complete the search by entering the state and county for the project's
> location. If the project is physically located near other counties, a
> search of those counties should also be included. The query will ask
> for the "Report Type" and the response should be for a "Full Report".
> Indicate if the NAGPRA database search lists any federally recognized
> Indian tribe(s) in the project's area of potential affect. If there
> are none listed then summarize findings and no further consultation is
> required. If federally recognized Indian tribe(s) are listed, contact
> them as noted in Paragraph C below.
>
> C. \_\_\_ Contact any federally recognized Indian tribe(s) that might
> be affected by the project as determined from Paragraphs A or B above.
> Document that the Applicant wrote (on behalf of USDA Rural
> Development) **letters to all the tribes** recommended by the NAHC
> **or** listed in the NAGPRA Consultation Database search that are near
> the project site. The letters should be addressed to the tribal
> contact persons listed in the NAGPRA Consultation Database or as
> directed by NAHC. The letter will describe the project, the amount of
> area that will be disturbed, and the location of the proposed work.
>
> Each tribe is to be advised that they will have 30 days to provide
> comments. Applicant shall make follow-up phone calls to see if the
> tribe desires to provide comments. This comment period may run
> concurrently with other required public notices. If tribal comments
> are received, they are to be evaluated and considered as part of the
> NEPA process prior to signing the NEPA document. USDA Rural
> Development may proceed with finalizing the NEPA process if a response
> is not received within the comment period.
>
> \_\_\_\_ Include a copy of any comments received from any tribe.
>
> \_\_\_\_ Discuss Environmental Consequence.

\_\_\_\_ Identify Any Needed Mitigation Measures.

3.5 Biological Resources.

Utilize the CEQA document and supplement it as follows.

> \_\_\_\_ Discuss Affected Environment. [Document if the project will
> or may affect a federally listed endangered or threatened species or
> listed critical habitant]{.underline}. The determination should be
> based on utilizing experts such as State Fish and Game Department
> offices, biologists from other federal agencies, the results of the
> Applicant's or consultant's biological surveys, or the U.S. Fish and
> Wildlife Service (USFWS). The quickest determinations are obtained by
> either contacting the local State Fish and Game Department offices or
> having a biological survey completed. Experts need not be consulted if
> the project obviously will not affect plants and animals either on or
> off-site. This needs to be explained. Examples might include
> converting the use of an existing building or replacing a pipeline in
> a paved road.
>
> \_\_\_\_ Document if the project is likely to jeopardize the continued
> existence of a proposed species or result in the destruction of or
> adverse modification of a proposed critical habitat.
>
> \_\_\_\_ Attach consultation with the US Fish and Wildlife Service.
> Consultation is required if the expert indicates the project [will or
> may affect]{.underline} listed species, or will or may jeopardize the
> continued existence of a proposed species, or result in the
> destruction or adverse modification of a proposed critical habitat.
> [The expert's input must make a clear determination of no affect or
> the USFWS review is needed.]{.underline} The USDA State Environmental
> Coordinator should be contacted if the USFWS requires formal
> consultation.
>
> \_\_\_\_ Discuss if the project may have growth inducing impacts that
> will or may affect listed species, or will or may jeopardize the
> continued existence of a proposed species, or result in the
> destruction or adverse modification of a proposed critical habitat.
>
> \_\_\_\_ Discuss Environmental Consequence.
>
> \_\_\_\_ Identify Any Needed Mitigation Measures.

3.6 Water Quality Issues. Utilize the CEQA document and supplement it as
follows.

> \_\_\_\_ Indicate if the project area is over an USEPA designated
> \"sole source\" aquifer. These designated aquifers are located (1)
> under any part of Fresno County, (2) Campo/Cottonwood Creek, located
> in Imperial County, (3) Scotts Valley area, located in Santa Cruz
> County, and near Ocotillo, California. If project is located over a
> designated aquifer then contact the RD Processing Office to see if
> consultation with EPA is required.
>
> \_\_\_\_ Identify the watershed basin in which the project is located.

3.7 Coastal Resources. If applicable, this information is contained in
the CEQA document.

> \_\_\_\_ Indicate if the project is located in a coastal zone
> management area. If it is, document compliance with the Coastal Zone
> Management Plan.
>
> \_\_\_\_ Discuss if a Coastal Zone Management permit is needed and its
> status.

3.8 Socio-Economic and Environmental Justice Issues.

Utilize the CEQA document and supplement it as follows.

> \_\_\_\_ Discuss if the project may pose disproportionately high and
> adverse human health or environmental effects to minority and
> low-income populations, and how the project will affect nearby
> residents.
>
> \_\_\_\_ If minority and low-income populations may be adversely
> affected, provide opportunities for these groups to provide input into
> the ER and NEPA process.
>
> \_\_\_\_ For all projects request that the local USDA RD processing
> office provide a completed Form RECD 2006-38, "Civil Rights Impact
> Analysis Certification."

\_\_\_\_ Identify measures that would reduce any identified adverse
human health or environmental effects to minority and low-income
populations.

9.  Air Quality.

    \_\_\_\_ Discuss the project's effect on air quality.

    \_\_\_\_ Regarding the Federal Air Conformity Rule de minimis
    thresholds, discuss if the project's construction and operation
    would generate air emissions equal to or in excess of 10 tons per
    year with respect to any criteria pollutant identified in the
    Federal Clean Air Act (including PM10).

    \_\_\_\_ If the 10 tons per year limit is exceeded, provide the
    actual emissions estimate and identify any measures that would
    mitigate impacts to air quality.

If this information is contained in the CEQA document, utilize the CEQA
document.

10. Location to other formally classified lands.

    Indicate if any portion of the project is located on or within the
    following resources. Describe the project's location with respect to
    the following resources. Locational statement may use "miles to" or
    use a general verbal description.

    \_\_\_\_ Coastal Zone Management Area.

    \_\_\_\_ Wild and Scenic River or its watershed area.

    \_\_\_\_ National Forest Land.

    \_\_\_\_ Bureau of Land Management

    \_\_\_\_ National Parks.

    \_\_\_\_ Designated National Monuments

    3.11 Miscellaneous Issues.

> This information is contained in the CEQA document. Utilize the CEQA
> document.

3.12 Housing and Urban Development requirements: **The** **following are
only required if** the project involves funds from the California
Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) or they might
appear applicable to the project.

> 3.12.1 Noise Abatement and Control. (HCD requirement)
>
> \_\_\_\_ Determine if the project involves development of noise
> sensitive uses, is within line-of-sight of an arterial roadway or
> railroad, or subject to substantial noise roadway or railroad or an
> airport that would have an ambient noise level of greater than 65 Day
> Night Average Sound Level (LDN) based on the Housing and Urban
> Development (HUD) Noise Assessment Guide (NAG). (HCD requirement)
>
> \_\_\_\_ If noise generation or off-site noise is greater than 65 LDN,
> apply the noise standard to the project approval decision and consider
> the application of the noise attenuation measures listed in NAG, pages
> 39-40. (HCD requirement)
>
> 3.12.2 Explosive or Flammable Operations: (HCD requirement)
>
> \_\_\_\_ Document that the project is located an Acceptable Separation
> Distance (ASD) from any above-ground explosive or flammable fuels, or
> chemicals containers according to "Sitting of HUD-Assisted Projects
> Near Hazardous Facilities" (HUD Manual's Appendix F, pages 51-52).
> Also, document that the project will expose neither people nor
> buildings to such hazards. (HCD requirement)
>
> \_\_\_\_ If applicable, mitigate the hazard (per 24 CFR 51.205) with
> the construction of a barrier of adequate size and strength to protect
> the project from the explosive or flammable hazard. (HCD requirement)

3.12.3 Toxic Chemicals and Radioactive Materials: (HCD requirement)

> \_\_\_\_ Document by contacting appropriate federal, state, or local
> oversight agencies, that the project does not involve or promote new
> development for habitation within one mile of a National Priority List
> (NPL "Superfund") site; within 2,000 feet of a CERCLIS site; nor is
> adjacent to any other known or suspected sites contaminated with
> toxic, radioactive, or hazardous materials, unless a federal, state,
> or local authoritative source determines the site does not pose a
> health hazard. (HCD requirement)
>
> \_\_\_\_ If the project involves a proposed water system, determine if
> hazardous materials will affect the water quality either at the
> water's source, treatment facility, or by absorption through the
> distribution pipe material. (HCD requirement)
>
> \_\_\_\_ If a project involves property acquisition, include the
> results of a Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment if any portion of
> the acquired property was used for commercial or industrial use, or
> which had significant quantities of chemicals stored, used, or
> disposed of on the property. Normally, land previously used for farm
> fields, residential development, or land that has not previously been
> developed does not require a Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment.
> Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessments will be done in accordance with
> American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Standard E-1527.
> (HCD requirement)
>
> 3.12.4 Airport Clear Zones and Accident Potential Zones: (HCD
> requirement)
>
> \_\_\_\_ Document that the project is not within an Federal Aviation
> Administration (FAA)-designated civilian airport Runway Clear Zone
> (RCZ), or within a military airfield Clear Zone (CZ) or Accident
> Potential Zone (APZ), based upon information from the airport or
> military airfield administrator identifying the boundaries of such
> zones. It is HUD policy not to provide any development assistance,
> subsidy or insurance in the RCZs or CZs unless the project will not be
> frequently used or occupied by people, and the airport operator
> provides written assurances that there are no plans to purchase the
> project site. (HCD requirement)

**4.0 SUMMARY OF MITIGATION MEASURES:**

\_\_\_\_ List and discuss all mitigation measures required by the CEQA
process and those needed to avoid or minimize adverse impacts. Where
possible, try to utilize the mitigation measures established by local
government if they meet the objectives of CEQA, federal Executive
Orders, USDA policies, and RUS policies and regulations. Mitigation
measures will be included as special requirements or provisions to the
offer of financial assistance.

\_\_\_\_ Attach a mitigation measures implementation schedule. Be
specific and describe why mitigation measures are needed, what must be
implemented, when they must be implemented, and who will be responsible
for the action.

**5.0 CORRESPONDENCE AND COORDINATION:**

\_\_\_\_ Discuss communications, letters and other documentation used in
the ER presentation of facts and analysis.

6.  **EXHIBITS:**

\_\_\_\_ Attach all CEQA environmental documents, initial studies, and
related exhibits and attachments to this ER.

\_\_\_\_ Attach letters, maps, surveys, aerial photos, soil maps, etc.,
that were previously referenced or are needed to explain and document
the facts presented and their evaluation.

\_\_\_\_ The local USDA RD processing office will provide to the
preparer of the ER the following completed items. The preparer will
insert these documents into the ER.

> \_\_\_ Important Farmland Determination, including Form AD-1006.

\_\_\_ Form RECD 2006-38, "Civil Rights Impact Analysis Certification".

> \_\_\_ FEMA Form 81-93, "Standard Flood Hazard Determination".
>
> \_\_\_ SHPO consultation letters. Normally this letter is not needed
> since many RUS projects are exempt from SHPO review under the terms of
> the SHPO Programmatic Agreement (SHPO PA). The Applicant will provide
> a record search from the regional Information Center if requested by
> the local USDA RD processing office [or if the project will be jointly
> funded with SWRCB or DHS]{.underline}. If the regional Information
> Center recommends a field survey for cultural resources the applicant
> will provide it unless the local USDA RD processing office determines
> that it is not needed. Local USDA RD processing office will obtain
> SHPO consultation if the Information Center identifies historic
> properties in the area of potential effect, or the archeological
> survey identifies properties eligible for inclusion in the National
> Register. If DHS or SWRCB will be providing federal equivalency
> funding, contact DHS or SWRCB to see if they will be obtaining SHPO
> consultation.

## ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT (ER) CHECKLIST

**[FOR PROJECTS WITHOUT AN ATTACHED CEQA DOCUMENT]{.underline}**

This checklist is to be used for projects in which a CEQA environmental
document can not be prepared within the time frame needed to fund this
project. [Exhibit C will not be used on jointly funded projects
utilizing funds from SWRCB or DHS.]{.underline} Items listed in the
following checklist will serve as the ER.

Duplication of effort should be avoided by incorporating (to the extent
practical) the CEQA process into the RUS Environmental Report (ER). The
following checklist is intended to assist USDA RD in complying with
Rural Utilities Service (RUS) environmental regulations, 7 CFR, Part
1794.

The preparer of the proposed ER should contact the local USDA RD
processing office. The processing office will determine in consultation
with the USDA RD State Environmental Coordinator the appropriate
checklist to use for this project.

When required and as appropriate, the preparer of the ER will consult
with experts from federal, state and local agencies, universities,
consultants or other organizations to assess potential impacts. Each
consultation will be accurately summarized in the supplement to the ER
and include the name, title, telephone number, and organization of the
individual contacted. Written documentation is, preferred but not always
possible or essential. Documentation for telephone calls will be signed
and dated. This and related correspondence should be attached to the ER
as exhibits. Expert consultation normally is not necessary for most
issues unless sensitive environmental resources are potentially
affected.

Each issue or potential environmental impact raised in the assessment
will need to consider both the magnitude of the project and its
environmental setting. The amount of analysis and documentation is to be
commensurate with the type and size of the project, the environmental
setting, and the degree of environmental impacts. The ER will give
primary effort to analyzing the most relevant concerns and not just
gather standard documentation. In preparing an ER, each environmental
factor listed must be addressed to an appropriate level. Please consult
with the local USDA RD processing office, and as needed, refer to the
full text of RUS Bulletin 1794A-602 and this State Supplement to 7 CFR
Part 1794 for more specific information on each natural resource
subject.

The ER will need to be a stand-alone document and it should not be part
of the preliminary engineering report. However, both documents should be
prepared concurrently when possible. It should be written so that the
general public can understand the issues and evaluations.

Exhibit D lists frequently utilized experts and contacts for preparing
the ER.

The local USDA RD processing office will provide to the preparer of the
ER the following completed items. The preparer will insert these
documents into the ER.

1.  Important Farmland Determination, including Form AD-1006.

2.  Form RECD 2006-38, "Civil Rights Impact Analysis Certification".

3.  FEMA Form 81-93, "Standard Flood Hazard Determination".

4.  SHPO consultation letters. Normally this letter is not needed since
    many RUS projects are exempt from SHPO review under the terms of the
    SHPO Programmatic Agreement (SHPO PA). The Applicant will provide a
    record search from the Information Center if requested by the local
    USDA RD processing office. If the Information Center requests an
    archeological survey the applicant will provide it if the local USDA
    RD processing office concurs that it is needed. Local USDA RD
    processing office will obtain SHPO consultation if the Information
    Center identifies historic properties in the area of potential
    effect, or the archeological survey identifies properties eligible
    for inclusion in the National Register.

Please complete the following checklist. **For each subject proceeded by
a "\_\_\_\_" insert the page number** in the blank space to indicate
where that subject is located in the ER.

**Two copies of the completed ER (signature cover page, checklist, items
listed in the checklist, and the CEQA document) are to be sent to the
local USDA RD processing office.**

**[ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT (ER) COVER PAGE and CHECKLIST]{.underline}**

This cover page and the following checklist will be attached to the
Environmental Report (ER) when it is submitted to the local USDA RD
processing office.

This Exhibit C is completed as a checklist for an ER for an
Environmental Assessment (EA) that does **NOT** utilizes a CEQA
document. This project action requires an ER for the preparation of an
EA. This level of environmental review is appropriate and authorized by
7 CFR Part 1794.23(b).

Project Title and Location:

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

A CEQA document will not be prepared in the near future.

□ Yes □ No

The completed Exhibit C checklist is attached. **For each checklist item
proceeded by a "\_\_\_\_ " the page number has been insert** to
specifically indicate where the subject information is discussed either
in the CEQA document or the supplement to the CEQA document which
collectively constitute the ER.

> □ Yes □ No

An Environmental Report (ER) is attached and has been prepared in the
format outlined in this Exhibit C.

□ Yes □ No

Provided is a written analysis for any resource checked as being
present, affected or converted. When listed environmental issues and
resources are not affected the basis for the determination is stated.

> □ Yes , written analysis is attached. □ No, the following
> environmental resources are not present, affected or converted. The
> written basis for these determinations is attached.

Name and Title of Person Preparing

Checklist and Environmental Report:

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
Date: \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
Preparer's Phone Number \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Signature of Preparer:
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

**ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT (ER) CHECKLIST**

######## FOR PROJECTS WITHOUT A CEQA DOCUMENT

**1.0 PROJECT'S PURPOSE AND NEED:**

**Insert Referenced Page or**

**Exhibit Number(s) in Blanks Below.**

**N/A may apply if explained.**

\_\_\_\_ Identify the project's name.

\_\_\_\_ Describe the project's location.

\_\_\_\_ Describe the project's specific elements (i.e. size,
components, design capabilities, etc.).

\_\_\_\_ Explain what is the project's purpose/objectives.

\_\_\_\_ Provide a statement explaining why this project is needed. The
purpose, objective, and project's need statements are important,
especially when discussing the alternatives including the No-Action
alternative.

**2.0 ALTERNATIVES:**

\_\_\_\_ Discuss the feasibility of the following alternatives as they
relate to the objective and need for the project, and the environmental
setting. Detailed analysis may be in the preliminary engineering report
and referenced. Discuss alternatives, such as:

> \_\_\_\_ 1. Alternative locations.
>
> \_\_\_\_ 2. Alternative designs.
>
> \_\_\_\_ 3. Alternative projects having similar benefits.
>
> \_\_\_\_ 4. No project (no action) alternative.
>
> This discussion must reasonably (1) determine how substantial the
> affects are on the environmental resource, (2) compare the importance
> of the need for the project in relationship to the impacts on the
> environmental resources, (3) discuss options available to the approval
> official, and (4) determine if there are any "practical alternatives"
> to impacting important environmental resources (floodplain, wetland,
> important farmland, or cultural resources).

**3.0 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES:**

General Information:

\_\_\_\_ Describe the project site and adjacent areas.

> \_\_\_\_ Discuss present land zoning and use, and proposed changes in
> land use at the project's site.
>
> \_\_\_\_ Describe the affect on surrounding land uses.
>
> \_\_\_\_ Describe any zoning restrictions and project's consistency
> with the local land use plan.

\_\_\_\_ Provide site photos and locational maps, USGS topographic map,
any available aerial photos, and if appropriate, land use maps. (Attach
the above items to the ER as referenced exhibits.)

\_\_\_\_ Provide a NRCS soil survey map and legend, if available.
(Attach this item to the ER as a referenced exhibit.) For each
subchapter listed below identify the environmental resources in the
area, the project's affect on them, and any needed mitigation measures.
Consider the environmental effect of the proposed project and feasible
alternatives previously identified. Consider direct impacts, indirect
impacts, and any cumulative impacts.

\_\_\_\_ 3.1 Discuss land use relating to important farmland, national
parks and monuments, national natural landmarks, national historic
sites, designated wilderness area, designated wild and scenic and
recreational river, wildlife refuges, designated national seashores,
lakeshores and trails, state parks, BLM federal lands, national forests,
or native American owned or leased land administered by the Bureau of
Indian Affairs (BIA).

> \_\_\_\_ 3.1.1 Farmland.
>
> \_\_\_\_ Discuss Affected Farmland. (Includes prime farmland, unique
> farmland and farmland designated by the state or local jurisdiction.)
> [If the project may convert important farmland, contact the local USDA
> RD processing office and request they make a farmland
> determination.]{.underline} The local USDA RD processing office will
> obtain and provide any needed farmland determination form, such as
> Form AD-1006. Should you have questions relating to USDA designated
> important farmland, contact the local USDA RD processing office. Avoid
> conversion of farmland unless there are no practical alternatives, in
> which case appropriate mitigation measures must be provided. A
> farmland determination is not needed where the project is focused on
> serving existing users. [USDA RD will require a public notice if USDA
> designated important farmland will be converted. However, no public
> notice is required if impact relates only to a utility line where the
> ground surface will be restored to its original grade and
> condition.]{.underline}
>
> \_\_\_\_ If federal or tribal lands are affected provide comments from
> those entities.
>
> \_\_\_\_ 3.1.2 Discuss Environmental Consequence.
>
> \_\_\_\_ 3.1.3 Identify Any Needed Mitigation Measures.

\_\_\_\_ 3.2 Floodplains.

> \_\_\_\_ 3.2.1 Discuss Affected Environment. Avoid conversion of
> floodplains unless there are no practical alternatives, in which case
> appropriate mitigation measures must be provided. 100-year floodplain
> applies to most structures, except for "critical facilities" in which
> the 500-year floodplain applies. Any impacts to structures or the
> natural values and functions of the floodplain must be considered and
> evaluated. [USDA RD will require a public notice if a floodplain is
> affected. However, no public notice is required if impact relates only
> to a utility line where the ground surface will be restored to its
> original grade and condition.]{.underline}
>
> \_\_\_\_ Show location of the service area and the proposed
> improvements on the FEMA Federal Insurance Rate Map (FIRM).
>
> \_\_\_\_ Attach a copy of the FEMA FIRM floodplain map. Include the
> map in Section 6.0, "Exhibits" to the ER.
>
> \_\_\_\_ For all projects request that the local USDA RD processing
> office provide a completed FEMA Form 81-93, "Standard Hazard
> Determination", to be inserted into the ER.
>
> \_\_\_\_ 3.2.2 Discuss Environmental Consequence.
>
> \_\_\_\_ 3.2.3 Identify Any Needed Mitigation Measures. Consider both
> structures and the natural values and functions of the floodplain.

\_\_\_\_ 3.3 Wetlands.

> \_\_\_\_ 3.3.1 Discuss Affected Environment. Avoid conversion of
> wetlands unless there are no practical alternatives, in which case
> appropriate mitigation measures must be provided. If wetlands are
> affected indicate if the project is covered under an U. S. Army Corp
> of Engineer (USACE) "Nationwide Permit" or if a 404 permit is needed.
> If there is potential for wetlands obtain a wetland determination from
> NRCS, USACE or a wetland delineator approved by one of these agencies
> to make the wetland determination. [USDA RD will require a public
> notice if a wetland is converted or affected. However, no public
> notice is required if impact relates only to a utility line where the
> ground surface will be restored to its original grade and
> condition.]{.underline}
>
> \_\_\_\_ 3.3.2 Document the basis for determining if wetlands may or
> may not be present.
>
> \_\_\_\_ 3.3.3 Discuss Environmental Consequence.
>
> \_\_\_\_ 3.3.4 Identify Any Needed Mitigation Measures.

\_\_\_\_ 3.4 Historic and Cultural Resources.

> \_\_\_\_ 3.4.1 Discuss if **Tribal lands,** any federally listed sites
> on the **National Register of Historic Places** or sites eligible for
> listing are in the area of potential affect for the project. This list
> is available on the Internet and listed in Exhibit D to this State
> Supplement. Discuss the results of the review of the National Register
> of Historic Places.
>
> \_\_\_\_ 3.4.2 USDA RD has a Programmatic Agreement (SHPO PA) with the
> California State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) that frequently
> eliminates the need for SHPO consultation (see Exhibit J). **Contact
> the local USDA RD processing office** and ask them how to proceed with
> the project under the terms of the SHPO PA. Depending on the project,
> archeological surveys and contacting the regional office of the
> California Historical Resource Information System (Regional
> Information Center) may not be needed. USDA RD will require a public
> notice if the project will have an adverse affect on a listed cultural
> resource.
>
> \_\_\_\_ 3.4.3 Indicate if the project activity is **listed in
> Appendix A of the SHPO Programmatic Agreement** (PA) (see Exhibit J)
> as having a minimal level of activity or ground disturbance. If
> proposed action is exempt from needing Regional Information Center
> comments, identify the [applicable exemption paragraph in the Appendix
> A]{.underline} of the SHPO PA.
>
> Appendix A of the SHPO PA lists project activities "...that do not
> involve extensive ground disturbance." The environmental setting of
> the project must be considered in determining how much ground can be
> disturbed and still be within the intent of the SHPO PA. For example,
> if a Regional Information Center "record search" has been done on a
> pipeline under an existing paved road, an extensive length of pipeline
> could be installed within the intent of the SHPO PA. By contrast, the
> SHPO PA would allow very little excavation without a record search if
> the pipeline were proposed to be in an unpaved utility corridor in a
> sensitive area such as along a river.
>
> \_\_\_\_ 3.4.4 Provide a record search from the California Historical
> Resource Information System
>
> **(Regional Information Center), if**:

1.  The review for this proposed action is not exempted by the SHPO PA,

2.  The project will be jointly funded with SWRCB or DHS,

3.  If requested by the local USDA RD processing office, or

4.  Site conditions warrant their input.

> Although it may not be required, these record searches are encouraged
> except for very small activities.
>
> \_\_\_\_ 3.4.5 **If** **requested** by the Regional Information Center
> or the local USDA RD processing office, provide an archeological
> survey. If the Regional Information Center recommends a field survey
> for cultural resources, the applicant will provide it unless the local
> USDA RD processing office determines that it is not needed. The need
> for an archeological survey will be determined by considering the
> information provided by the Regional Information Center, the amount of
> land disturbed, the amount of undisturbed land affected, and proximity
> of the project's area of potential affects to documented archeological
> or historic sites.
>
> \_\_\_\_ 3.4.6 Request and include a SHPO concurance letter if
> required. Normally this is not needed since many RUS projects are
> exempt from SHPO review under the terms of the SHPO PA. If DHS or
> SWRCB will be providing federal equivalency funding, contact DHS or
> SWRCB to see if they will be obtaining a SHPO consultation. The
> Applicant or the local USDA RD processing office will provide SHPO an
> analysis and determination, and ask for SHPO to concur. Obtain this
> **SHPO concurance letter if**:

1.  Regional Information Center identifies historic properties or
    archeological sites in the area of potential effect,

2.  Regional the Information Center requests an archeological survey but
    Agency decides it is not needed and it is not done, or

3.  The archeological survey identifies properties possibly eligible for
    inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places.

> \_\_\_\_ 3.4.7 **[Tribal consultation:]{.underline}**
>
> Provide appropriate tribal consultation documentation and analysis.
> Tribal consultation will be done as part of the NEPA and National
> Historic Preservation Act, Section 106 consultation process.
>
> The Historic Preservation Act requires that "a reasonable and good
> faith effort" will be made to conduct tribal consultation. This will
> be done in a manner that considers relevant factors such as; the size
> and type of project; magnitude of land disturbance; location of the
> project in proximity to tribal land; if the land has already been
> disturbed; and if there are historic or archeological sites in the
> area. Any decision not to initiate further tribal consultation must be
> explained.
>
> \_\_\_\_ Provide appropriate Tribal consultation analysis and
> documentation as explained below.
>
> **Do one of the following two items** as applicable:
>
> 1\. \_\_\_\_ If the project's [activity is **listed** in Appendix A of
> the SHPO PA]{.underline}, further tribal consultation is not required
> unless the activity is on tribal land. This is due to the minimal
> nature of the project and specific nature of the project's setting.
> This must be explained in the ER. Conclude the analysis by **writing a
> summary** of potential to impact areas of tribal concern. Further
> tribal consultation as outline below is not required.
>
> 2\. \_\_\_\_ If the project's [activity is **not listed** in Appendix
> A of the SHPO PA or the project is located on tribal
> land]{.underline}, the following consultation documentation is
> required. Conclude the analysis by **writing a summary** of potential
> to impact areas of tribal concern **after doing at least one of the
> following two options**:
>
> A. \_\_\_ **Option 1 (Preferred):** [Provide a copy of comments from
> the California Native American Heritage Commission]{.underline} (NAHC)
> in the NEPA document. NAHC review comments may be available as part of
> the state's California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) process. The
> NAHC has access to important information relating to properties of
> traditional religious and cultural importance, i.e. traditional
> cultural properties and the "Native American Contact List". Indicate
> if the NAHC database lists any federally recognized Indian tribe(s) in
> the project's area of potential affect. If there are none listed then
> summarize findings and no further consultation is required. If
> federally recognized Indian tribe(s) are listed, contact them as noted
> in Paragraph C below.
>
> [To obtain NAHC comments]{.underline} provide them with a brief
> description of the project and an 8 ½x11 map of the project's
> location. Please state the range, township, section, and sub-section,
> the name of the USGS quad map, and return Fax number. Requests may be
> Faxed to 916-657-5390. It will take about 10-15 days for a response.
> Their address is California Native American Heritage Commission, 915
> Capital Mall, Room 364, Sacramento, CA 95814, phone 916-653-4082.
> **Or**
>
> B. \_\_\_ **Option 2:** [Provide a printout of the Native American
> Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) Consultation Database
> search]{.underline}. The National Park Service **NAGPRA Consultation
> Database** can be accessed at http://www.cast.uark.edu/other/nps/nacd/
> or call them at (202) 343-8161. At this website, the Applicant is to
> complete the search by entering the state and county for the project's
> location. If the project is physically located near other counties, a
> search of those counties should also be included. The query will ask
> for the "Report Type" and the response should be for a "Full Report".
> Indicate if the NAGPRA database search lists any federally recognized
> Indian tribe(s) in the project's area of potential affect. If there
> are none listed then summarize findings and no further consultation is
> required. If federally recognized Indian tribe(s) are listed, contact
> them as noted in Paragraph C below.
>
> C. \_\_\_ Contact any federally recognized Indian tribe(s) that might
> be affected by the project as determined from Paragraphs A or B above.
> Document that the Applicant wrote (on behalf of USDA Rural
> Development) **letters to all the tribes** recommended by the NAHC
> **or** listed in the NAGPRA Consultation Database search that are near
> the project site. The letters should be addressed to the tribal
> contact persons listed in the NAGPRA Consultation Database or as
> directed by NAHC. The letter will describe the project, the amount of
> area that will be disturbed, and the location of the proposed work.
>
> Each tribe is to be advised that they will have 30 days to provide
> comments. Applicant shall make follow-up phone calls to see if the
> tribe desires to provide comments. This comment period may run
> concurrently with other required public notices. If tribal comments
> are received, they are to be evaluated and considered as part of the
> NEPA process prior to signing the NEPA document. USDA Rural
> Development may proceed with finalizing the NEPA process if a response
> is not received within the comment period.
>
> \_\_\_\_ Include a copy of any comments received from any tribe.
>
> \_\_\_\_ 3.4.8 Discuss Environmental Consequence.
>
> \_\_\_\_ 3.4.9 Identify Any Needed Mitigation Measures.

\_\_\_\_ 3.5 Biological Resources.

> \_\_\_\_ 3.5.1 Discuss Affected Environment.
>
> \_\_\_\_ Document if the project [will or may]{.underline} affect a
> listed endangered or threatened species or listed critical habitant.
> The determination should be based on utilizing experts such as State
> Fish and Game Department offices, biologists from other federal
> agencies, the results of the Applicant's or consultant's biological
> surveys, or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). [Local State
> Fish and Game Department offices and biological surveys provide the
> quickest determinations.]{.underline} Experts need not be consulted if
> the project obviously will not affect plants and animals either on or
> off-site. This needs to be explained. Examples might include
> converting the use of an existing building or replacing a pipeline in
> a paved road.
>
> \_\_\_\_ Document if the project is likely to jeopardize the continued
> existence of a proposed species or result in the destruction or
> adverse modification of a proposed critical habitat.
>
> \_\_\_\_ Attach consultation with the US Fish and Wildlife Service
> [if]{.underline} the expert indicates that the project will or may
> affect listed species, or will or may jeopardize the continued
> existence of a proposed species or result in the destruction or
> adverse modification of a proposed critical habitat. [The expert's
> input must make a clear determination that there is no affect or the
> USFWS review is needed]{.underline}. The USDA State Environmental
> Coordinator should be contacted if the USFWS requires formal
> consultation.
>
> \_\_\_\_ 3.5.2 Discuss Environmental Consequence.
>
> \_\_\_\_ 3.5.3 Identify Any Needed Mitigation Measures.

\_\_\_\_ 3.6 Water Quality Issues.

> \_\_\_\_ 3.6.1 Discuss Affected Environment.
>
> \_\_\_\_ For discharges or withdrawals discuss condition of and impact
> to surface water or groundwater aquifer.
>
> \_\_\_\_ Describe potential for increased surface runoff and erosion
> during and after construction.
>
> \_\_\_\_ Describe project's water source and availability of any
> needed supply of water. Discuss if the project will create any water
> shortages.
>
> \_\_\_\_ Describe any impacts to community water or wastewater
> treatment facilities.
>
> \_\_\_\_ Indicate if the project area is over an USEPA designated
> \"sole source\" aquifer. These designated aquifers are located (1)
> under any part of Fresno County, (2) Campo/Cottonwood Creek, located
> in Imperial County, (3) Scotts Valley area, located in Santa Cruz
> County, and near Ocotillo, California. If project is located over a
> designated aquifer then contact the RD Processing Office to see if
> consultation with EPA is required.
>
> \_\_\_\_ Document consultation with EPA if the project or affected
> area is located over an EPA designated sole source aquifer.
>
> \_\_\_\_ 3.6.2 Discuss Environmental Consequence.
>
> \_\_\_\_ 3.6.3 Identify Any Needed Mitigation Measures.

\_\_\_\_ 3.7 Coastal Resources.

> \_\_\_\_ 3.7.1 Discuss Affected Environment.
>
> \_\_\_\_ Indicate if the project is located in a coastal zone
> management area. If it is, document compliance with the Coastal Zone
> Management Plan.
>
> \_\_\_\_ Discuss if a Coastal Zone Management permit is needed and its
> status.
>
> \_\_\_\_ 3.7.2 Discuss Environmental Consequence.
>
> \_\_\_\_ 3.7.3 Identify Any Needed Mitigation Measures.

\_\_\_\_ 3.8 Socio-Economic and Environmental Justice Issues.

> \_\_\_\_ 3.8.1 Discuss Affected Environment.
>
> \_\_\_\_ Discuss relevant issues such as if people are to be
> relocated, will the project promote growth, and the area's ability to
> accommodate population increases.
>
> \_\_\_\_ Discuss if the project may pose disproportionately high and
> adverse human health or environmental effects to minority and
> low-income populations and how the project will affect nearby
> residents.
>
> \_\_\_\_ If minority and low-income populations may be adversely
> affected, provide opportunities for these groups to provide input into
> the ER and NEPA process.
>
> \_\_\_\_ For all projects request that the local USDA RD processing
> office provide a completed Form RECD 2006-38, "Civil Rights Impact
> Analysis Certification".
>
> \_\_\_\_ 3.8.2 Discuss Environmental Consequence.
>
> \_\_\_\_ 3.8.3 Identify Any Needed Mitigation Measures. Identify
> measures that would reduce any identified adverse human health of
> environmental effects to minority and low-income populations.

\_\_\_\_ 3.9 Discuss Any Other Substantial Relevant Miscellaneous
Issues. Items may include air quality, transportation, noise, solid
waste management, zoning restrictions, construction, hazardous waste,
energy impacts, vibrations, safety, earthquake or mudslide hazards,
fire-prone areas, etc.

> \_\_\_\_ Discuss if the CEQA requires a CEQA Categorical Exemption,
> CEQA Mitigated Negative Declaration or a CEQA Environmental Impact
> Report (EIR). To the extent possible, avoid duplication of effort by
> utilizing and referencing any available information in the CEQA
> document.
>
> \_\_\_\_ Discuss the public awareness of this project. Discuss the
> results of any CEQA process, public hearing, or pubic information.
> Discuss any negative comments and the responses to these comments.
>
> \_\_\_\_ 3.9.1 Discuss Affected Environment.
>
> \_\_\_\_ 3.9.2 Discuss Environmental Consequence.
>
> \_\_\_\_ 3.9.3 Identify Any Needed Mitigation Measures.

**4.0 SUMMARY OF MITIGATION MEASURES:**

\_\_\_\_ If applicable attach any available or anticipated CEQA
environmental findings, recommendations, and mitigation measures. Where
possible, try to utilize the mitigation measures established by local
government if they meet the objectives of CEQA, federal Executive
Orders, USDA policies, and RUS policies and regulations.

\_\_\_\_ List and discuss all required mitigation measures for this
project needed to avoid or minimize adverse impacts. Mitigation measures
listed will be included as special requirements or provisions to the
offer of financial assistance.

\_\_\_\_ Attach a mitigation measures implementation schedule. Be
specific and describe why mitigation measures are needed, what must be
implemented, when they must be implemented, and who will be responsible
for implementation and monitoring.

**5.0 CORRESPONDENCE AND COORDINATION:**

\_\_\_\_ Attach letters and documented telephone memorandums used to
coordinate mitigation action and document findings.

**6.0 EXHIBITS:**

\_\_\_\_ Attach maps, surveys, aerial photos, soil maps, etc., that are
referenced or needed to explain and document the facts presented and
their evaluation.

\_\_\_\_ The local USDA RD processing office will provide to the
preparer of the ER the following completed items. The preparer will
insert these documents into the ER.

> \_\_\_ Important Farmland Determination, including Form AD-1006.

\_\_\_ Form RECD 2006-38, "Civil Rights Impact Analysis Certification".

> \_\_\_ FEMA Form 81-93, "Standard Flood Hazard Determination".
>
> \_\_\_ SHPO consultation letters. Normally this letter is not needed
> since many RUS projects are exempt from SHPO review under the terms of
> the SHPO Programmatic Agreement (SHPO PA). The Applicant will provide
> a record search from the Information Center if requested by the local
> USDA RD processing office. If the Information Center requests an
> archeological survey the applicant will provide it if the local USDA
> RD processing office concurs that it is needed. Local USDA RD
> processing office will obtain SHPO consultation if the Information
> Center identifies historic properties in the area of potential effect,
> or the archeological survey identifies properties eligible for
> inclusion in the National Register.

[LIST OF CONTACTS]{.underline}

[FOR COMPLETING THE ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT]{.underline}

+--------+-----------+-------------------------------------------------+
| **N    | **Reco    | **Comments**                                    |
| atural | mmended** |                                                 |
| Reso   |           |                                                 |
| urce** | **Initial |                                                 |
|        | Contact** |                                                 |
+--------+-----------+-------------------------------------------------+
| We     | NRCS or   | Contact NRCS field office. Telephone number is  |
| tlands | USACE     | available from the Natural Resource             |
|        |           | Conservation Service (NRCS) State Office (530)  |
|        |           | 792-5600, or by contacting the local USDA RD    |
|        |           | processing office. Contact U.S. Army Corp of    |
|        |           | Engineers (USACE) if a permit is needed. USACE  |
|        |           | number is (213) 452-3425 for the Los Angles     |
|        |           | Office, and (916) 557-5250 for the Sacramento   |
|        |           | office. A private consultant may be needed to   |
|        |           | make determination if NRCS, USACE, or other     |
|        |           | experts will not or can not make a timely       |
|        |           | determination.                                  |
+--------+-----------+-------------------------------------------------+
| Flood  | Federal   | Obtain a copy of the most current FEMA Federal  |
| plains | Emergency | Insurance Rate Map. To obtain a map call        |
|        | M         | 1-800-358-9616 or check web at                  |
|        | anagement | [www.fema.gov/nfip/m                            |
|        | Agency    | purfi.htm](http://www.fema.gov/nfip/mpurfi.htm) |
|        | (FEMA)    |                                                 |
+--------+-----------+-------------------------------------------------+
| Imp    | Local     | Local USDA RD processing office will obtain or  |
| ortant | USDA RD   | facilitate obtaining a farmland determination   |
| Fa     | p         | through the NRCS.                               |
| rmland | rocessing |                                                 |
|        | office    |                                                 |
+--------+-----------+-------------------------------------------------+
| Prime  | Local     | Only contact NRCS (through the local USDA RD    |
| Fore   | USDA RD   | processing office) if affected area is capable  |
| stland | p         | of growing a high volume of timber products. If |
|        | rocessing | the area obviously does not have this capacity  |
|        | office    | then so indicate in the ER. Also, the area will |
|        | and NRCS  | not be considered prime forestland unless NRCS  |
|        |           | can and does make a determination. As needed,   |
|        |           | contact NRCS State Office (530) 792-5600, or    |
|        |           | the local USDA RD processing office to obtain   |
|        |           | the telephone number for the local NRCS field   |
|        |           | office.                                         |
+--------+-----------+-------------------------------------------------+
| Imp    | No        | The NRCS has indicated there are no officially  |
| ortant | contact   | designated important rangeland in California.   |
| Ran    | is        |                                                 |
| geland | needed.   |                                                 |
+--------+-----------+-------------------------------------------------+
| Enda   | C         | Contact State Department of Fish and Game field |
| ngered | alifornia | office or use a biologist that meets the        |
| &      | D         | requirements of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife      |
| Thre   | epartment | Service. [Contact USFWS (916) 414-6600          |
| atened | of Fish   | (Sacramento if a federally listed species or    |
| S      | and Game  | critical habitat may or will be affected, or if |
| pecies | field     | the potential for affect is                     |
|        | office    | unknown.]{.underline} The USDA State            |
|        |           | Environmental Coordinator should be contacted   |
|        |           | if the USFWS requires formal consultation. See  |
|        |           | web site at [www.fws.gov](http://www.fws.gov/)  |
|        |           | for list of USFWS offices. See web site at      |
|        |           | [www.dfg.ca.gov](http://www.dfg.ca.gov/) for    |
|        |           | State Fish and Game headquarters and field      |
|        |           | offices phone numbers. Species list is found at |
|        |           | <http://endangered.fws.gov/wildlife.html> or    |
|        |           | [www.fws.gov/r9endspp/statl-ca.ht               |
|        |           | ml](http://www.fws.gov/r9endspp/statl-ca.html). |
+--------+-----------+-------------------------------------------------+
| Cu     | Local     | First contact the local USDA RD processing      |
| ltural | USDA RD.  | office for direction to comply with the SHPO    |
| Re     | Possibly  | Programmatic Agreement. Only contact the State  |
| source | the       | Regional Historic Resource Centers and SHPO if  |
|        | State's   | the local USDA RD processing office indicates   |
|        | Regional  | the Programmatic Agreement requires their       |
|        | Historic  | comments. SHPO telephone number is (916)        |
|        | Resource  | 653-6624 and they have the telephone numbers    |
|        | In        | for the regional historic information centers.  |
|        | formation | Federally listed sites are on the web at        |
|        | Center    | [www.cr.nps.gov/nr](http://www.cr.nps.gov/nr).  |
|        | offices   |                                                 |
|        | and SHPO  |                                                 |
+--------+-----------+-------------------------------------------------+

+------+------------+-------------------------------------------------+
| *    | **Rec      | **Comments**                                    |
| *Nat | ommended** |                                                 |
| ural |            |                                                 |
| Re   | **Initial  |                                                 |
| sour | Contact**  |                                                 |
| ce** |            |                                                 |
+------+------------+-------------------------------------------------+
| Tr   | Contact    | Tribes that may have an interest in the project |
| ibal | affected   | area need to be consulted.                      |
| Cult | tribes by  |                                                 |
| ural | utilizing  | To obtain phone numbers for tribes in northern  |
| Reso | the Bureau | California contact the BIA in Redding, CA (1)   |
| urce | of Indian  | For tribes in central California contact BIA in |
|      | Affairs    | Sacramento, CA at:                              |
|      | (BIA)      |                                                 |
|      |            | 5141. 916-566-7100. For tribes in southern      |
|      |            |       California contact BIA in Riverside, CA   |
|      |            |       at                                        |
|      |            |                                                 |
|      |            | 5142. 909-276-6624.                             |
|      |            |                                                 |
|      |            | 5143. \(2\) California Native American Heritage |
|      |            |       Commission, 915 Capital Mall, Room 364,   |
|      |            |       Sacramento, CA 95814, phone 916-653-4082. |
|      |            |                                                 |
|      |            | 5144. \(3\) Native American Graves Protection   |
|      |            |       and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA)             |
|      |            |       Consultation Database search. The         |
|      |            |       National Park Service NAGPRA Consultation |
|      |            |       Database can be accessed at               |
|      |            |       http://www.cast.uark.edu/other/nps/nacd/  |
|      |            |       or call them at (202) 343-8161            |
+------+------------+-------------------------------------------------+
| Sole | Local USDA | Contact U.S. Environmental Protection Agency    |
| So   | RD         | (EPA) if project may affect or is located over  |
| urce | processing | an EPA designated sole source aquifer. EPA      |
| Aqui | office     | Region IX Ground Water Office's number is (415) |
| fers |            | 744-1890. Designated aquifers are in Santa Cruz |
|      |            | county (Scott's Valley), San Diego county       |
|      |            | (Campo, Pine Valley, Potrero and portions of    |
|      |            | adjacent tribal reservations), Imperial county  |
|      |            | (one area near Ocotillo, Coyote Wells, Nomirage |
|      |            | and Yuha Estates), Fresno (One large area near  |
|      |            | Fresno, Clovis, Kerman, Raisin City, Selma, and |
|      |            | Sanger \-- area bordered by (1) Fresno slough   |
|      |            | by-pass on the west, (2) San Joaquin River on   |
|      |            | the north, (3) Friant-Kern Canal on the east,   |
|      |            | and (4) the Kings River on the south.)          |
+------+------------+-------------------------------------------------+
| W    | State      | As needed contact Regional Water Quality        |
| ater | Regional   | Control Board offices. Telephone numbers        |
| Qua  | Water      | available through their web site at             |
| lity | Quality    | [www.swrcb.ca.gov/html/rwqcbs.h                 |
|      | Control    | tml](http://www.swrcb.ca.gov/html/rwqcbs.html). |
|      | Board      | As needed, contact the State Department of      |
|      |            | Health Services (530) 224-4800 or the local     |
|      |            | county health agency if there is a drinking     |
|      |            | water quality issue.                            |
+------+------------+-------------------------------------------------+
| Coa  | State      | For projects in or affecting a coastal zone     |
| stal | Coastal    | management areas call (415) 904-5200 to obtain  |
| Reso | Commission | the number for the local coastal commission     |
| urce | or         | district office. Coastal zone maps are soon     |
|      | Regional   | expected to be available.                       |
|      | Coastal    |                                                 |
|      | Zone       |                                                 |
|      | District   |                                                 |
+------+------------+-------------------------------------------------+
| Wild | National   | List of designated rivers is available at NPS   |
| and  | Park       | web site                                        |
| Sc   | Service    | [www.nps.gov/rivers/wildriverslist.html]        |
| enic | (NPS) or   | (http://www.nps.gov/rivers/wildriverslist.html) |
| Ri   | U.S.       |                                                 |
| vers | Forest     |                                                 |
|      | Service    |                                                 |
+------+------------+-------------------------------------------------+
| Fed  | Federal    | US Forest Service directory is available at     |
| eral | agency     | [www.fs.fed.us/intro/directory/rg-5.html](      |
| L    | with       | http://www.fs.fed.us/intro/directory/rg-5.html) |
| ands | control    |                                                 |
|      | over the   | US Forest Service forest maps are Available at  |
|      | land       | [www.r5.                                        |
|      |            | fs.fed.us/maps/](http://www.r5.fs.fed.us/maps/) |
|      |            |                                                 |
|      |            | BLM directory is available at                   |
|      |            | [www.ca.blm.gov/direct                          |
|      |            | ory.html](http://www.ca.blm.gov/directory.html) |
|      |            |                                                 |
|      |            | BLM map is available at                         |
|      |            | www.ca.blm.gov/nhp/facts/maps/landsmap_m.html   |
+------+------------+-------------------------------------------------+
| O    | Check with |                                                 |
| ther | local      |                                                 |
| R    | community  |                                                 |
| esou | and/or     |                                                 |
| rces | county     |                                                 |
|      | planning   |                                                 |
|      | offices.   |                                                 |
+------+------------+-------------------------------------------------+

**ABBREVIATIONS AND DEFINITIONS**

  ----------------- -----------------------------------------------------
  Applicant         Entity requesting USDA Rural Development financial
                    assistance, or their consultant

  CE                NEPA Categorical Exclusion

  CEQA              California Environmental Quality Act

  CFR               Code of Federal Regulations

  DHS               Department of Health Services

  EA                NEPA Environmental Assessment

  ER                Environmental Report (required by USDA RD)

  FEMA              Federal Emergency Management Agency

  Final Public      Final public notice issued by the Applicant relating
  Notice            to converting floodplain, wetland, farmland; or
                    adversely affecting listed historic cultural
                    resources. Final Public Notice usually has no public
                    comment period unless EA had been substantially
                    changed due to substantive public comments.

  FONSI             Determination of Finding of No Significant Impact
                    issued by the RUS Program Director

  FONSI Notice      Public notice issued by the Applicant relating to
                    USDA RD's determination of Finding of No Significant
                    Impact relating to an EA. Usually, no public comment
                    period. Issued with any required "Final Notice" and
                    after public comment period for the "Notice of EA
                    Availability".

  HCD               California Department of Housing and Community
                    Development

  HUD               U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development

  LOC               Letter of Conditions (issued by USDA RD for financial
                    assistance from RUS).

  NAGPRA            Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation
                    Act

  NAHC              California Native American Heritage Commission

  NEPA              National Environmental Policy Act

  NHPA              National Historic Preservation Act

  Notice of EA      Public notice issued by the Applicant relating to EA
  Availability      availability for public review. It includes a 30-day
                    comment period. May be combined with the "Preliminary
                    Public Notice".

  N/O               USDA RD/RUS National Office

  NRCS              USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service

  PER               Preliminary Engineering Report

  Preliminary       Initial public notice issued by the Applicant
  Public Notice     relating to converting floodplain, wetland, farmland,
                    or adversely affecting listed historic cultural
                    resources. 30 day comment period. For an EA it is
                    combined with the "Notice of EA Availability".

  RD/PO             Local USDA Rural Development processing office

  RD                USDA Rural Development

  RUS               Rural Utilities Service. (Source of funding used by
                    USDA RD).

  RUS Bulletin      National "Guide for Preparing the Environmental
  1794A-602         Report for Water and Waste Projects"

  RUS environmental 7 CFR Part 1794. Policies and procedures for
  regulations       implementing NEPA and other environmental
                    regulations.

  RUS SI            RUS Staff Instruction 1794-1, Agency administrative
                    requirements.

  SI                RUS Staff Instruction 1794-1

  SEC               State Environmental Coordinator (for USDA RD/RUS).

  SHPO              California State Historic Preservation Officer

  SHPO PA           SHPO Programmatic Agreement that outlines how USDA RD
                    is to comply with the NHPA. See Exhibit D of this
                    State Supplement

  State Supplement  The RUS Environmental Bulletin 1794A-602, California
                    State Supplement

  SWRCB             California State Water Resource Control Board

  USDA RD           USDA Rural Development. (Responsible for overseeing
                    implementation of the RUS environmental regulations)

  USDA              United States Department of Agriculture

  USGS              United States Geological Service
  ----------------- -----------------------------------------------------

**LOCATION OF RUS ENVIRONMENTAL AND ENGINEERING**

**PROCEDURES AND FORMS**

+---------------+----------+--------------+--------------------------+
| **Document's  | **If     | **Document   | **Website**              |
| Name**        | Needed,  | Number In    |                          |
|               | The      | Website**    |                          |
|               | Source   |              |                          |
|               | For The  |              |                          |
|               | Document |              |                          |
|               | Is:**    |              |                          |
+---------------+----------+--------------+--------------------------+
| RUS Format    | RUS      | RUS          | [http://www.             |
| For Preparing | Public   | Bulletins    | usda.gov/rus/water/regs. |
| a Preliminary | Website  | 1780-2,      | htm](http://www.usda.gov |
| Engineering   |          | 1780-3,      | /rus/water/wwregs.shtml) |
| Reports       |          | 1780-4, or   |                          |
|               |          | 1780-5       |                          |
+---------------+----------+--------------+--------------------------+
| 7 CFR 1794,   | RUS      | 7 CFR 1794   | [http://www.             |
| RUS Policies  | Public   |              | usda.gov/rus/water/regs. |
| and           | Website  |              | htm](http://www.usda.gov |
| Procedures    |          |              | /rus/water/wwregs.shtml) |
+---------------+----------+--------------+--------------------------+
| RUS           | Local    |              |                          |
| Environmental | USDA     |              |                          |
| Bulletin      | Rural    |              |                          |
| 1794A-602,    | Dev      |              |                          |
| California    | elopment |              |                          |
| State         | Pr       |              |                          |
| Supplement    | ocessing |              |                          |
|               | Office   |              |                          |
+---------------+----------+--------------+--------------------------+
| RUS Staff     | RUS      | Dated        | <http://rdintra.         |
| Instruction   | Intranet | 1-12-99      | usda.gov/rus_doclib.nsf> |
| 1794-1        |          |              |                          |
|               |          |              | (USDA RD agency access   |
|               |          |              | only)                    |
+---------------+----------+--------------+--------------------------+
| California    | Local    |              |                          |
| RUS Staff     | USDA     |              |                          |
| Instruction   | Rural    |              |                          |
| 1794-1,       | Dev      |              |                          |
| Exhibits A    | elopment |              |                          |
| through M     | Pr       |              |                          |
|               | ocessing |              |                          |
|               | Office   |              |                          |
+---------------+----------+--------------+--------------------------+
| RUS Bulletin  | RUS      | B 1794A-602  | [http://www.             |
| 1794A-602,    | Public   |              | usda.gov/rus/water/regs. |
| National      | Website  |              | htm](http://www.usda.gov |
| "Guide for    |          |              | /rus/water/wwregs.shtml) |
| Preparing the |          |              |                          |
| Environmental |          |              |                          |
| Report for    |          |              |                          |
| Water and     |          |              |                          |
| Waste         |          |              |                          |
| Projects"     |          |              |                          |
+---------------+----------+--------------+--------------------------+
| Flowchart of  | RUS      | FC1794       | [http://www.             |
| Subpart C -   | Public   |              | usda.gov/rus/water/regs. |
| C             | Website  |              | htm](http://www.usda.gov |
| lassification |          |              | /rus/water/wwregs.shtml) |
| of            |          |              |                          |
| Proposals".   |          |              |                          |
+---------------+----------+--------------+--------------------------+
| RUS           | RUS      | Dated        | <http://rdintra.         |
| environmental | Intranet | 1-12-99      | usda.gov/rus_doclib.nsf> |
| forms and     |          |              |                          |
| charts        |          |              | (USDA RD agency access   |
|               |          |              | only)                    |
+---------------+----------+--------------+--------------------------+

[RUS web sites for general information:]{.underline}

1\. <http://www.usda.gov/rus/> has information about the RUS program.

2\. <http://www.usda.gov/rus/water/ees/index.htm> has information about
USDA Rural Development State Environmental Coordinators and engineers.

3\. <http://www.usda.gov/rus/water/ees/library.htm> contains numerous
environmental regulations, statutes, executive orders and other
environmental information.

4\. <http://www.usda.gov/rus/regs.shtml> includes the RUS environmental
regulation 7 CFR 1794 and RUS Bulletin 1794A-602, Guide for Preparing
the Environmental Report for Water and Waste Projects".

+---+---+-----------------+----------------+-------------+-------------+
| # |   |                 |                |             |             |
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| A |   |                 |                |             |             |
| . |   |                 |                |             |             |
+---+---+-----------------+----------------+-------------+-------------+
| A |   | **Local USDA RD | **Applicant    | **Comments  |             |
| c |   | Processing      | Activity**     | and**       |             |
| t |   | Office          |                |             |             |
| i |   | Activity**      |                | **Source    |             |
| v |   |                 |                | For         |             |
| i |   |                 |                | Additional  |             |
| t |   |                 |                | Guidance**  |             |
| y |   |                 |                |             |             |
| N |   |                 |                |             |             |
| u |   |                 |                |             |             |
| m |   |                 |                |             |             |
| b |   |                 |                |             |             |
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|   |   |                 |                |             |             |
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| * |   |                 |                |             |             |
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| ) |   |                 |                |             |             |
| * |   |                 |                |             |             |
| * |   |                 |                |             |             |
+---+---+-----------------+----------------+-------------+-------------+
| * | * |                 |                |             |             |
| * | * |                 |                |             |             |
| F | F |                 |                |             |             |
| o | o |                 |                |             |             |
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| n | * |                 |                |             |             |
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| * | * |                 |                |             |             |
| * |   |                 |                |             |             |
+---+---+-----------------+----------------+-------------+-------------+
| E | C | A.  Provide     | Take no        | Explain     |             |
| A | E |     Applicant   | actions that   | that RUS    |             |
| 1 | 1 |     with a copy | would limit    | Bulletin    |             |
|   |   |     of "RUS     | environmental  | 1794A-602,  |             |
|   |   |                 | alternatives   | and RUS     |             |
|   |   |   Environmental | or cause       | Regulation  |             |
|   |   |     Bulletin    | adverse        | 7 CFR 1794  |             |
|   |   |     1794A-602,  | environmental  | are for     |             |
|   |   |     California  | impacts.       | reference   |             |
|   |   |     State       |                | and are     |             |
|   |   |     Supplement" |                | available   |             |
|   |   |     (**State    |                | on the web  |             |
|   |   |                 |                | at address  |             |
|   |   |  Supplement**). |                | on the      |             |
|   |   |                 |                | previous    |             |
|   |   | B.  Advise them |                | page. The   |             |
|   |   |     of the      |                | information |             |
|   |   |                 |                | needed to   |             |
|   |   |    availability |                | complete    |             |
|   |   |     of RUS      |                | the ER is   |             |
|   |   |     Bulletin    |                | contained   |             |
|   |   |     1794A-602,  |                | in this     |             |
|   |   |     and RUS     |                | State       |             |
|   |   |     Regulation  |                | Supplement. |             |
|   |   |     1794 on the |                |             |             |
|   |   |     RUS website |                | See this    |             |
|   |   |     previously  |                | State       |             |
|   |   |     mentioned.  |                | Supplement  |             |
|   |   |                 |                | and RUS     |             |
|   |   |                 |                | regulation  |             |
|   |   |                 |                | 1794.15(a). |             |
+---+---+-----------------+----------------+-------------+-------------+
| E | C | Determine       | Provide        | The RUS     |             |
| A | E | appropriate     | description of | State       |             |
| 2 | 2 | level of NEPA   | project and    | En          |             |
|   |   | review, i.e.,   | area to the    | vironmental |             |
|   |   | if the proposed | local USDA     | Coordinator |             |
|   |   | action is a     | Rural          | (SEC)       |             |
|   |   | Categorical     | Development    | should      |             |
|   |   | Exclusion (CE)  | processing     | concur in   |             |
|   |   | or an           | office         | this        |             |
|   |   | Environmental   | (**RD/PO**)    | threshold   |             |
|   |   | Assessment (EA) |                | det         |             |
|   |   | is required.    |                | ermination. |             |
|   |   |                 |                |             |             |
|   |   |                 |                | Procedural  |             |
|   |   |                 |                | reference   |             |
|   |   |                 |                | is RUS      |             |
|   |   |                 |                | Regulations |             |
|   |   |                 |                | 1794.22(b)  |             |
|   |   |                 |                | [and]{      |             |
|   |   |                 |                | .underline} |             |
|   |   |                 |                | (c),        |             |
|   |   |                 |                | 1794.31(b)  |             |
|   |   |                 |                | and         |             |
|   |   |                 |                | 1794.23(b); |             |
|   |   |                 |                | RUS Staff   |             |
|   |   |                 |                | Instruction |             |
|   |   |                 |                | 1794-1,     |             |
|   |   |                 |                | par. 3.2;   |             |
|   |   |                 |                | and RUS     |             |
|   |   |                 |                | Bulletin    |             |
|   |   |                 |                | 1794A-602,  |             |
|   |   |                 |                | par. 2.2.   |             |
|   |   |                 |                |             |             |
|   |   |                 |                | See the RUS |             |
|   |   |                 |                | four page   |             |
|   |   |                 |                | "Flowchart  |             |
|   |   |                 |                | of Subpart  |             |
|   |   |                 |                | C -         |             |
|   |   |                 |                | Cla         |             |
|   |   |                 |                | ssification |             |
|   |   |                 |                | of          |             |
|   |   |                 |                | Proposals"  |             |
|   |   |                 |                | for         |             |
|   |   |                 |                | assistance  |             |
|   |   |                 |                | in making   |             |
|   |   |                 |                | this        |             |
|   |   |                 |                | det         |             |
|   |   |                 |                | ermination. |             |
|   |   |                 |                | This flow   |             |
|   |   |                 |                | chart is    |             |
|   |   |                 |                | document    |             |
|   |   |                 |                | number "FC  |             |
|   |   |                 |                | 1794" on    |             |
|   |   |                 |                | website     |             |
|   |   |                 |                | [http:/     |             |
|   |   |                 |                | /www.usda.g |             |
|   |   |                 |                | ov/rus/wate |             |
|   |   |                 |                | r/regs.htm] |             |
|   |   |                 |                | (http://www |             |
|   |   |                 |                | .usda.gov/r |             |
|   |   |                 |                | us/water/ww |             |
|   |   |                 |                | regs.shtml) |             |
+---+---+-----------------+----------------+-------------+-------------+
| E | C | Advise the      | A. Initiate    | Procedural  |             |
| A | E | Applicant if    | preparation of | references  |             |
| 3 | 3 | the ER is to be | an ER in       | are in this |             |
|   |   | prepared to     | accordance     | State       |             |
|   |   | meet the        | with the       | Supplement  |             |
|   |   | requirements of | appropriate    | and RUS     |             |
|   |   | a CE or an EA.  | exhibit in     | Bulletin    |             |
|   |   | Tell the        | this State     | 1794A-602,  |             |
|   |   | Applicant,      | Supplement.    | par. 1.3.   |             |
|   |   | which exhibit   |                |             |             |
|   |   | (Exhibit A, B,  | B. A           | The PER     |             |
|   |   | or C) in this   | Preliminary    | must comply |             |
|   |   | State           | Engineering    | with RUS    |             |
|   |   | Supplement is   | Report (PER)   | Bulletin    |             |
|   |   | to be completed | should be      | 1780-2,     |             |
|   |   | and submitted   | prepared at    | 1780-3,     |             |
|   |   | to USDA Rural   | same time but  | 1780-4, or  |             |
|   |   | Development.    | ER should be a | 1780-5 as   |             |
|   |   | **Exhibit C can | separate       | applicable. |             |
|   |   | not be used if  | stand-alone    | This        |             |
|   |   | SWRCB, DHS or   | document from  | document is |             |
|   |   | HCD funds are   | the PER.       | on website  |             |
|   |   | part of the     |                | <http://    |             |
|   |   | project.**      |                | www.usda.go |             |
|   |   |                 |                | v/rus/water |             |
|   |   |                 |                | /index.htm> |             |
+---+---+-----------------+----------------+-------------+-------------+
| E | C | Work closely    |                | Procedural  |             |
| A | E | with the        |                | references  |             |
| 4 | 4 | Applicant in    |                | are RUS     |             |
|   |   | providing       |                | Staff       |             |
|   |   | information and |                | Instruction |             |
|   |   | guidance during |                | 1794-1,     |             |
|   |   | the completion  |                | par. 2.2,   |             |
|   |   | of the ER.      |                | 3.4 and     |             |
|   |   |                 |                | 3.5.        |             |
+---+---+-----------------+----------------+-------------+-------------+

+---+---+----------------+----------------+---------------------------+
| E | C | Determine from | Provide maps   | See the next four         |
| A | E | Applicant if   | of the area    | "Activity Numbers" CE 6   |
| 5 | 5 | the project    | showing the    | through CE 9 or EA 6      |
|   |   | will (1)       | project and    | through EA 9 for          |
|   |   | convert        | other          | documentation. If these   |
|   |   | important      | information    | resources are             |
|   |   | farmland; (2)  | for making     | converted/affected public |
|   |   | have its       | this           | notices and mitigation    |
|   |   | facilities     | determination. | measures are needed as    |
|   |   | (not including |                | noted below.              |
|   |   | utilities)     |                |                           |
|   |   | located in     |                |                           |
|   |   | floodplain or  |                |                           |
|   |   | wetland; or    |                |                           |
|   |   | (3) adversely  |                |                           |
|   |   | impact         |                |                           |
|   |   | historic       |                |                           |
|   |   | cultural       |                |                           |
|   |   | resources.     |                |                           |
+---+---+----------------+----------------+---------------------------+
| E | C | Using Form     | Incorporate    | Procedural reference is   |
| A | E | AD-1006, with  | Form AD-1006   | page 3 of this State      |
| 6 | 6 | input from     | into the ER as | Supplement.               |
|   |   | NRCS, make an  | an exhibit.    |                           |
|   |   | Important      | Avoid the      |                           |
|   |   | Farmland       | conversion of  |                           |
|   |   | Determination  | farmland       |                           |
|   |   | and provide    | unless there   |                           |
|   |   | the            | are no         |                           |
|   |   | determination  | practical      |                           |
|   |   | form to the    | alternatives.  |                           |
|   |   | Applicant.     | If impacted,   |                           |
|   |   |                | provide        |                           |
|   |   |                | appropriate    |                           |
|   |   |                | mitigation     |                           |
|   |   |                | measures.      |                           |
+---+---+----------------+----------------+---------------------------+
| E | C | Complete Form  | Incorporate    | Procedural reference is   |
| A | E | RECD 2006-38,  | Form RECD      | page 3 of this State      |
| 7 | 7 | Civil Rights   | 2006-38 into   | Supplement.               |
|   |   | Impact         | the ER as an   |                           |
|   |   | Analysis       | exhibit. Avoid |                           |
|   |   | Certification" | adversely      |                           |
|   |   | and provide it | impacting      |                           |
|   |   | to the         | areas because  |                           |
|   |   | Applicant.     | they are       |                           |
|   |   |                | minority or    |                           |
|   |   |                | low income     |                           |
|   |   |                | areas.         |                           |
+---+---+----------------+----------------+---------------------------+
| E | C | Complete Form  | Provide a FEMA | Procedural reference is   |
| A | E | 81-93,         | floodplain map | page 3 of this State      |
| 8 | 8 | "Standard      | or copy to the | Supplement.               |
|   |   | Flood Hazard   | local USDA RD  |                           |
|   |   | Determination" | processing     |                           |
|   |   | and provide it | office.        |                           |
|   |   | to the         | Incorporate    |                           |
|   |   | Applicant.     | Form 81-93     |                           |
|   |   |                | into the ER as |                           |
|   |   |                | an exhibit.    |                           |
|   |   |                | Avoid the      |                           |
|   |   |                | conversion of  |                           |
|   |   |                | floodplains or |                           |
|   |   |                | wetlands       |                           |
|   |   |                | unless there   |                           |
|   |   |                | are no         |                           |
|   |   |                | practical      |                           |
|   |   |                | alternatives.  |                           |
|   |   |                | If impacted,   |                           |
|   |   |                | provide        |                           |
|   |   |                | appropriate    |                           |
|   |   |                | mitigation     |                           |
|   |   |                | measures.      |                           |
+---+---+----------------+----------------+---------------------------+
| E | C | Advise         | Provide any    | Procedural reference is   |
| A | E | applicant if   | required       | page 3 of this State      |
| 9 | 9 | Information    | archeological  | Supplement.               |
|   |   | Center review  | survey or      |                           |
|   |   | or if an       | Information    |                           |
|   |   | archeological  | Center reviews |                           |
|   |   | survey is      | required under |                           |
|   |   | needed per     | the terms of   |                           |
|   |   | terms of our   | the SHPO PA.   |                           |
|   |   | SHPO           | Avoid adverse  |                           |
|   |   | Programmatic   | impacts to     |                           |
|   |   | Agreement      | listed         |                           |
|   |   | (SHPO PA).     | historic       |                           |
|   |   | Obtain and     | property. If   |                           |
|   |   | provide our    | impacted,      |                           |
|   |   | SHPO           | provide        |                           |
|   |   | consultation   | appropriate    |                           |
|   |   | letter to the  | mitigation     |                           |
|   |   | Applicant ONLY | measures.      |                           |
|   |   | if required by |                |                           |
|   |   | the SHPO PA.   | If provided by |                           |
|   |   |                | RD/PO,         |                           |
|   |   | NOTE: Usually  | incorporate    |                           |
|   |   | this is not    | any SHPO       |                           |
|   |   | needed per     | consultation   |                           |
|   |   | terms of the   | document into  |                           |
|   |   | SHPO PA.       | the ER as an   |                           |
|   |   |                | exhibit.       |                           |
+---+---+----------------+----------------+---------------------------+
|   | C | A.  If the     | Publish any    | All public notices will   |
|   | E |     project is | required       | be newspaper public       |
|   | 1 |     a          | "Preliminary   | notices unless otherwise  |
|   | 0 |                | Public         | approved by the SEC.      |
|   |   |    Categorical | Notice". Have  |                           |
|   |   |     Exclusion  | the local      | See summary public notice |
|   |   |     (CE)       | processing     | charts in Exhibit I of    |
|   |   |     action,    | office review  | State Supplement. The     |
|   |   |     initiate   | the notice     | preliminary notice's      |
|   |   |     the        | before it is   | format is in "Exhibit J - |
|   |   |                | published.     | Preliminary Notice for    |
|   |   |   "preliminary |                | Categorical Exclusion"    |
|   |   |     public     | Provide a      | and is contained in CA    |
|   |   |     notice"    | proof of       | RUS Staff Instruction     |
|   |   |     with its   | publication to | 1794-1. There is a 30-day |
|   |   |     30 day     | the RD/PO.     | public comment period.    |
|   |   |     public     |                |                           |
|   |   |     comment    |                | RD/PO is to document the  |
|   |   |     period as  |                | completion of the public  |
|   |   |     soon as    |                | notice process on CA RUS  |
|   |   |     impacts to |                | Staff Instruction 1794-1, |
|   |   |     the        |                | Exhibit H.                |
|   |   |     previously |                |                           |
|   |   |     mentioned  |                | Procedural reference is   |
|   |   |     resources  |                | RUS Regulation 1794.13.   |
|   |   |     can be     |                |                           |
|   |   |     defined.   |                |                           |
|   |   |     Do not     |                |                           |
|   |   |     wait for   |                |                           |
|   |   |     the ER to  |                |                           |
|   |   |     be         |                |                           |
|   |   |     accepted   |                |                           |
|   |   |     by RUS.    |                |                           |
|   |   |     Check with |                |                           |
|   |   |     the SEC to |                |                           |
|   |   |     see if any |                |                           |
|   |   |     unique     |                |                           |
|   |   |     additional |                |                           |
|   |   |     public     |                |                           |
|   |   |     notice     |                |                           |
|   |   |                |                |                           |
|   |   |   requirements |                |                           |
|   |   |     are        |                |                           |
|   |   |     needed.    |                |                           |
|   |   |                |                |                           |
|   |   | B.  Provide    |                |                           |
|   |   |     the sample |                |                           |
|   |   |     notice to  |                |                           |
|   |   |     Applicant. |                |                           |
+---+---+----------------+----------------+---------------------------+

+---+---+-----------------+----------------+---------------------------+
|   | C | A.  Evaluate    | A.  Publish    | All public notices will   |
|   | E |     and comment |     any        | be newspaper public       |
|   | 1 |     on any      |     required   | notices unless otherwise  |
|   | 1 |     public      |     "Final     | approved by the SEC.      |
|   |   |     comments    |     Public     |                           |
|   |   |     received.   |     Notice"    | See summary public notice |
|   |   |                 |     after 30   | charts in Exhibit I of    |
|   |   | B.  Work with   |     day of     | State Supplement. The     |
|   |   |     the         |     first      | final notice's format is  |
|   |   |     Applicant   |                | in "Exhibit K - Final     |
|   |   |     to resolve  |    publication | Notice for Categorical    |
|   |   |     issues and  |     of the     | Exclusion" and is         |
|   |   |     modify the  |                | contained in CA RUS Staff |
|   |   |     ER if       |   "Preliminary | Instruction 1794-1. There |
|   |   |                 |     Public     | is no public comment      |
|   |   |    appropriate. |     Notice".   | period.                   |
|   |   |                 |     Have the   |                           |
|   |   | C.  Initiate a  |     RD/PO      | RD/PO is to document the  |
|   |   |     "Final      |     review the | completion of the public  |
|   |   |     Public      |     notice     | notice process on CA RUS  |
|   |   |     Notice" if  |     before it  | Staff Instruction 1794-1, |
|   |   |     project has |     is         | Exhibit H.                |
|   |   |     facilities  |     published. |                           |
|   |   |     located in  |                | Procedural reference is   |
|   |   |     a           | B.  Provide    | RUS Regulation 1794.13.   |
|   |   |     floodplain  |     proof of   |                           |
|   |   |     or wetland, |                |                           |
|   |   |     or project  |    publication |                           |
|   |   |     adversely   |     to the     |                           |
|   |   |     impacts     |     RD/PO.     |                           |
|   |   |     historic    |                |                           |
|   |   |     cultural    |                |                           |
|   |   |     resources.  |                |                           |
|   |   |     NOTE:       |                |                           |
|   |   |     Important   |                |                           |
|   |   |     farmland    |                |                           |
|   |   |     does not    |                |                           |
|   |   |     require a   |                |                           |
|   |   |     final       |                |                           |
|   |   |     notice.     |                |                           |
|   |   |     Check with  |                |                           |
|   |   |     the SEC to  |                |                           |
|   |   |     see if any  |                |                           |
|   |   |     unique      |                |                           |
|   |   |     additional  |                |                           |
|   |   |     public      |                |                           |
|   |   |     notice      |                |                           |
|   |   |                 |                |                           |
|   |   |    requirements |                |                           |
|   |   |     are needed. |                |                           |
+---+---+-----------------+----------------+---------------------------+
| E | C |                 | **[Applicant   | See [Exhibit              |
| A | E |                 | completes      | A]{.underline} of this    |
| 1 | 1 |                 | ER.]           | State Supplement.         |
| 0 | 2 |                 | {.underline}** | Procedural references are |
|   |   |                 |                | RUS Regulations 1794.7(b) |
|   |   |                 | A.  **IF the   | and 1794.32(b).           |
|   |   |                 |     Action is  |                           |
|   |   |                 |     a NEPA     | See [Exhibit              |
|   |   |                 |                | B]{.underline} of this    |
|   |   |                 |    Categorical | State Supplement.         |
|   |   |                 |     Exclusion  | Procedural references are |
|   |   |                 |     and a CEQA | RUS Regulations 1794.7(b) |
|   |   |                 |     document   | and 1794.41.              |
|   |   |                 |     is         |                           |
|   |   |                 |     available, | See [Exhibit              |
|   |   |                 |     Applicant  | C]{.underline} of this    |
|   |   |                 |     completes  | State Supplement.         |
|   |   |                 |     [Exhibit   | Procedural references are |
|   |   |                 |                | RUS Regulations 1794.7(b) |
|   |   |                 | A]{.underline} | and, 1794.32(b) or        |
|   |   |                 |     of this    | 1794.41.                  |
|   |   |                 |     State      |                           |
|   |   |                 |                |                           |
|   |   |                 |  Supplement.** |                           |
|   |   |                 |                |                           |
|   |   |                 | B.  **IF the   |                           |
|   |   |                 |     Action     |                           |
|   |   |                 |     requires a |                           |
|   |   |                 |     NEPA       |                           |
|   |   |                 |                |                           |
|   |   |                 |  Environmental |                           |
|   |   |                 |     Assessment |                           |
|   |   |                 |     and a CEQA |                           |
|   |   |                 |     document   |                           |
|   |   |                 |     is         |                           |
|   |   |                 |     available, |                           |
|   |   |                 |     Applicant  |                           |
|   |   |                 |     completes  |                           |
|   |   |                 |     [Exhibit   |                           |
|   |   |                 |                |                           |
|   |   |                 | B]{.underline} |                           |
|   |   |                 |     of this    |                           |
|   |   |                 |     State      |                           |
|   |   |                 |                |                           |
|   |   |                 |  Supplement.** |                           |
|   |   |                 |                |                           |
|   |   |                 | C.  **IF no    |                           |
|   |   |                 |     CEQA       |                           |
|   |   |                 |     document   |                           |
|   |   |                 |     will be    |                           |
|   |   |                 |     available  |                           |
|   |   |                 |     prior to   |                           |
|   |   |                 |     funding    |                           |
|   |   |                 |     the        |                           |
|   |   |                 |     project,   |                           |
|   |   |                 |     the        |                           |
|   |   |                 |     Applicant  |                           |
|   |   |                 |     completes  |                           |
|   |   |                 |     [Exhibit   |                           |
|   |   |                 |                |                           |
|   |   |                 | C]{.underline} |                           |
|   |   |                 |     of this    |                           |
|   |   |                 |     State      |                           |
|   |   |                 |                |                           |
|   |   |                 |  Supplement.** |                           |
+---+---+-----------------+----------------+---------------------------+
| E | C |                 | Submit two     | Procedural references are |
| A | E |                 | copies of the  | RUS Regulations           |
| 1 | 1 |                 | completed ER   | 1794.13(a)(3), 1794.7(b)  |
| 1 | 3 |                 | to RD/PO.      | and 1794.41.              |
|   |   |                 | Append back-up |                           |
|   |   |                 | documentation  |                           |
|   |   |                 | and any public |                           |
|   |   |                 | comments       |                           |
|   |   |                 | received.      |                           |
+---+---+-----------------+----------------+---------------------------+

+---+---+-----------------+----------------+---------------------------+
| E | C | A.              |                | Procedural references are |
| A | E |   Independently |                | RUS Regulations 1794.41   |
| 1 | 1 |     evaluate    |                | CA RUS Staff Instructions |
| 2 | 4 |     the ER to   |                | 1794-1, Exhibit A and H.  |
|   |   |     assure that |                |                           |
|   |   |     the ER      |                | RD/PO is to document the  |
|   |   |     addresses   |                | completion of any         |
|   |   |     all         |                | required public notice on |
|   |   |     applicable  |                | CA RUS Staff Instruction  |
|   |   |                 |                | 1794-1, Exhibit H.        |
|   |   |   environmental |                |                           |
|   |   |     issues.     |                |                           |
|   |   |     Attach      |                |                           |
|   |   |     public      |                |                           |
|   |   |     comments    |                |                           |
|   |   |     and RD/PO's |                |                           |
|   |   |     response to |                |                           |
|   |   |     comments to |                |                           |
|   |   |     the ER      |                |                           |
|   |   |                 |                |                           |
|   |   | B.  Complete,   |                |                           |
|   |   |     sign and    |                |                           |
|   |   |     initial     |                |                           |
|   |   |     Exhibit H,  |                |                           |
|   |   |     California  |                |                           |
|   |   |     RUS Staff   |                |                           |
|   |   |     Instruction |                |                           |
|   |   |     1794-1.     |                |                           |
|   |   |                 |                |                           |
|   |   | C.  Forward     |                |                           |
|   |   |     completed   |                |                           |
|   |   |     Exhibits A  |                |                           |
|   |   |     through H   |                |                           |
|   |   |     of          |                |                           |
|   |   |     California  |                |                           |
|   |   |     RUS Staff   |                |                           |
|   |   |     Instruction |                |                           |
|   |   |     1794-1 to   |                |                           |
|   |   |     the SEC.    |                |                           |
+---+---+-----------------+----------------+---------------------------+
|   | C | If the SEC      |                | The SEC reviews the ER    |
|   | E | notifies RD/PO  |                | and Exhibit H California  |
|   | 1 | of              |                | RUS Staff Instruction     |
|   | 5 | deficiencies,   |                | 1794-1. The SEC uses      |
|   |   | RD/PO is to     |                | Exhibits A and B to       |
|   |   | follow-up and   |                | California RUS Staff      |
|   |   | resubmit ER.    |                | Instruction 1794-1 to     |
|   |   |                 |                | notify RD/PO of           |
|   |   |                 |                | deficiencies, or accepts  |
|   |   |                 |                | the ER by signing         |
|   |   |                 |                | Exhibits A and H.         |
|   |   |                 |                |                           |
|   |   |                 |                | Procedural references are |
|   |   |                 |                | CA RUS Staff Instructions |
|   |   |                 |                | 1794-1, Exhibits A, B and |
|   |   |                 |                | H.                        |
+---+---+-----------------+----------------+---------------------------+
|   | C |                 |                | The SEC signs and         |
|   | E |                 |                | forwards Exhibit H        |
|   | 1 |                 |                | California RUS Staff      |
|   | 6 |                 |                | Instruction 1794-1 to RUS |
|   |   |                 |                | Program Director to sign  |
|   |   |                 |                | and approve Exhibit H.    |
|   |   |                 |                | 30-day preliminary        |
|   |   |                 |                | notice, if required, must |
|   |   |                 |                | have expired prior to     |
|   |   |                 |                | signing.                  |
|   |   |                 |                |                           |
|   |   |                 |                | Procedural reference is   |
|   |   |                 |                | CA RUS Staff Instructions |
|   |   |                 |                | 1794-1, Exhibit A and H.  |
+---+---+-----------------+----------------+---------------------------+
|   | C |                 |                | The RUS Program Director  |
|   | E |                 |                | signs and approves        |
|   | 1 |                 |                | Exhibit H of California   |
|   | 7 |                 |                | RUS Staff Instruction     |
|   |   |                 |                | 1794-1. This is done      |
|   |   |                 |                | after the 30-day          |
|   |   |                 |                | preliminary notice        |
|   |   |                 |                | comment period has        |
|   |   |                 |                | expired, if required.     |
|   |   |                 |                |                           |
|   |   |                 |                | Procedural reference is   |
|   |   |                 |                | CA RUS Staff Instructions |
|   |   |                 |                | 1794-1, Exhibit A and H.  |
+---+---+-----------------+----------------+---------------------------+
| E |   | If the SEC      |                | A.  The SEC accepts the   |
| A |   | notifies RD/PO  |                |     ER as our EA by       |
| 1 |   | of              |                |     signing Exhibit A of  |
| 3 |   | deficiencies,   |                |     California RUS Staff  |
|   |   | RD/PO is to     |                |     Instruction 1794-1.   |
|   |   | follow-up and   |                |                           |
|   |   | resubmit ER.    |                | B.  The SEC uses Exhibits |
|   |   |                 |                |     A, B and C of         |
|   |   |                 |                |     California RUS Staff  |
|   |   |                 |                |     Instruction 1794-1 to |
|   |   |                 |                |     notify RD/PO of       |
|   |   |                 |                |     acceptance of ER as   |
|   |   |                 |                |     our EA, to advise of  |
|   |   |                 |                |     any deficiencies to   |
|   |   |                 |                |     be corrected and to   |
|   |   |                 |                |     notify RD/PO of       |
|   |   |                 |                |     public notices needed |
|   |   |                 |                |     and these actions     |
|   |   |                 |                |                           |
|   |   |                 |                | CA RUS Staff Instruction  |
|   |   |                 |                | 1794-1, Exhibits A, B,    |
|   |   |                 |                | and C and 1794.41.        |
+---+---+-----------------+----------------+---------------------------+

+---+---+-----------------+----------------+---------------------------+
| E |   | For actions     | A.  Publish    | All public notices will   |
| A |   | requiring an    |     public     | be newspaper public       |
| 1 |   | EA, initiate    |     Notice of  | notices unless otherwise  |
| 4 |   | the preliminary |                | approved by the SEC.      |
|   |   | public notices  |   Availability |                           |
|   |   | concurrently    |     of         | See summary public notice |
|   |   | with the public |                | charts in Exhibit I of    |
|   |   | "Notice of      |  Environmental | State Supplement. The     |
|   |   | Availability    |                | notice's format is in     |
|   |   | Environmental   |    Assessment, | "Exhibit L --             |
|   |   | Assessment".    |     and if     | Environmental Assessment  |
|   |   | Both have a 30  |     required   | Notice of Availability,   |
|   |   | day (from first |     the        | or Combined Notice of     |
|   |   | publication     |                | Availability and          |
|   |   | date) public    |    Preliminary | Preliminary Notice" and   |
|   |   | comment period. |     Public     | is contained in CA RUS    |
|   |   | A preliminary   |     Notice.    | Staff Instruction 1794-1. |
|   |   | notice is only  |     Have the   | There is a 30-day public  |
|   |   | required for an |     RD/PO      | comment period.           |
|   |   | EA if the       |     review the |                           |
|   |   | project will    |     notice     | RD/PO is to document the  |
|   |   | (1) convert     |     before it  | completion of the public  |
|   |   | important       |     is         | notice process on CA RUS  |
|   |   | farmland, (2)   |     published. | Staff Instruction 1794-1, |
|   |   | have its        |                | Exhibit H.                |
|   |   | facilities (not | B.  Provide    |                           |
|   |   | including       |     proof of   | Procedural reference is   |
|   |   | utilities)      |                | RUS Regulation 1794.13    |
|   |   | located in      |    publication | and 1794.42.              |
|   |   | floodplain or   |     to RD/PO.  |                           |
|   |   | wetland, or (3) |                |                           |
|   |   | adversely       |                |                           |
|   |   | impact historic |                |                           |
|   |   | cultural        |                |                           |
|   |   | resources.      |                |                           |
|   |   | These notices   |                |                           |
|   |   | can be done     |                |                           |
|   |   | separately, but |                |                           |
|   |   | we recommend    |                |                           |
|   |   | that they be    |                |                           |
|   |   | combined.       |                |                           |
+---+---+-----------------+----------------+---------------------------+
| E | C | If a floodplain |                | Procedural references are |
| A | E | preliminary     |                | Exhibits F and G of       |
| 1 | 1 | notice was      |                | California RUS Staff      |
| 5 | 8 | required or if  |                | Instruction 1794-1.       |
|   |   | the project     |                |                           |
|   |   | involves        |                | RD/PO is to document the  |
|   |   | conversion of a |                | completion of any         |
|   |   | floodplain,     |                | required public notice on |
|   |   | construction on |                | CA RUS Staff Instruction  |
|   |   | new facilities  |                | 1794-1, Exhibit H.        |
|   |   | in a            |                |                           |
|   |   | floodplain, or  |                |                           |
|   |   | the continued   |                |                           |
|   |   | use of project  |                |                           |
|   |   | related         |                |                           |
|   |   | facilities in a |                |                           |
|   |   | floodplain;     |                |                           |
|   |   | complete and    |                |                           |
|   |   | send Private    |                |                           |
|   |   | Party           |                |                           |
|   |   | Floodplain      |                |                           |
|   |   | Notice (Exhibit |                |                           |
|   |   | G of California |                |                           |
|   |   | RUS Staff       |                |                           |
|   |   | Instruction     |                |                           |
|   |   | 1794-1).        |                |                           |
+---+---+-----------------+----------------+---------------------------+
| E | C | Included        | Applicant      | Procedural reference is   |
| A | E | required        | provides a     | RUS Regulations           |
| 1 | 1 | mitigation      | schedule for   | 1794.17(b).               |
| 6 | 9 | measures in the | completing the |                           |
|   |   | draft copy of   | mitigation     |                           |
|   |   | the LOC.        | measures.      |                           |
|   |   |                 | Applicant      |                           |
|   |   |                 | accomplishes   |                           |
|   |   |                 | all mitigation |                           |
|   |   |                 | measures at    |                           |
|   |   |                 | the            |                           |
|   |   |                 | appropriate    |                           |
|   |   |                 | time (prior to |                           |
|   |   |                 | project        |                           |
|   |   |                 | completion).   |                           |
|   |   |                 | The mitigation |                           |
|   |   |                 | schedule is to |                           |
|   |   |                 | be part of the |                           |
|   |   |                 | ER/EA.         |                           |
+---+---+-----------------+----------------+---------------------------+
| E |   | A.  If not      |                | All public notices will   |
| A |   |     already     |                | be newspaper public       |
| 1 |   |     done,       |                | notices unless otherwise  |
| 7 |   |     evaluate    |                | approved by the SEC.      |
|   |   |     and comment |                |                           |
|   |   |     on any      |                | See public notice charts  |
|   |   |     public      |                | in RUS Bulletin           |
|   |   |     comments    |                | 1794A-602, and Sections   |
|   |   |     received.   |                | 5.1 and 5.3 for CE        |
|   |   |                 |                | actions. Ignore the flow  |
|   |   | B.  Work with   |                | charts in these sections. |
|   |   |     the         |                |                           |
|   |   |     Applicant   |                | See "Exhibit B - Sample   |
|   |   |     to resolve  |                | Public Notice, Final      |
|   |   |     issues and  |                | Notices for Categorical   |
|   |   |     modify ER   |                | Exclusion" in RUS         |
|   |   |     if          |                | Bulletin 1794A-602, page  |
|   |   |                 |                | 47. Procedural reference  |
|   |   |    appropriate. |                | is RUS Regulations        |
|   |   |                 |                | 1794.13.                  |
+---+---+-----------------+----------------+---------------------------+
| E |   | A.  Submit ER,  |                | A.  The SEC reviews       |
| A |   |                 |                |     environmental         |
| 1 |   |   environmental |                |     documentation and     |
| 8 |   |     file,       |                |     signs Exhibit D of    |
|   |   |     public      |                |     California RUS SI,    |
|   |   |     comments    |                |     "Recommendations of a |
|   |   |     and         |                |     Finding of No         |
|   |   |     responses   |                |     Significant Impact".  |
|   |   |     to the file |                |                           |
|   |   |     relating to |                | B.  The SEC forwards      |
|   |   |     comments,   |                |     signed Exhibit D and  |
|   |   |     and any     |                |     environmental file to |
|   |   |     other       |                |     RUS Program Director. |
|   |   |                 |                |                           |
|   |   |   environmental |                | Procedural reference is   |
|   |   |     information |                | CA RUS Staff Instructions |
|   |   |     to the SEC. |                | 1794-1, Exhibit D.        |
|   |   |                 |                |                           |
|   |   | B.  Submit      |                |                           |
|   |   |     filled out  |                |                           |
|   |   |     Exhibits A  |                |                           |
|   |   |     through H   |                |                           |
|   |   |     of          |                |                           |
|   |   |     California  |                |                           |
|   |   |     RUS Staff   |                |                           |
|   |   |     Instruction |                |                           |
|   |   |     1794-1 to   |                |                           |
|   |   |     the SEC.    |                |                           |
+---+---+-----------------+----------------+---------------------------+

+---+---+---+-----------------+----------------+----------------------+
| E |   |   |                 |                | The RUS Program      |
| A |   |   |                 |                | Director signs       |
| 1 |   |   |                 |                | Exhibit E of         |
| 9 |   |   |                 |                | California RUS SI,   |
|   |   |   |                 |                | "Finding of No       |
|   |   |   |                 |                | Significant Impact"  |
|   |   |   |                 |                | (FONSI).             |
|   |   |   |                 |                |                      |
|   |   |   |                 |                | Procedural reference |
|   |   |   |                 |                | is RUS SI 1794-1,    |
|   |   |   |                 |                | Exhibit E.           |
+---+---+---+-----------------+----------------+----------------------+
| E |   |   |                 |                | A.  The RUS Program  |
| A |   |   |                 |                |     Director signs   |
| 2 |   |   |                 |                |     Exhibit F of     |
| 0 |   |   |                 |                |     California RUS   |
|   |   |   |                 |                |     SI 1794-1.       |
|   |   |   |                 |                |                      |
|   |   |   |                 |                | B.  The RUS Program  |
|   |   |   |                 |                |     Director uses    |
|   |   |   |                 |                |     Exhibit F to     |
|   |   |   |                 |                |     notify RD/PO     |
|   |   |   |                 |                |     that a FONSI was |
|   |   |   |                 |                |     issued and that  |
|   |   |   |                 |                |     RD/PO is to      |
|   |   |   |                 |                |     notify the       |
|   |   |   |                 |                |     Applicant to     |
|   |   |   |                 |                |     issue the        |
|   |   |   |                 |                |     FONSI/Final      |
|   |   |   |                 |                |     Public Notice.   |
|   |   |   |                 |                |                      |
|   |   |   |                 |                | Procedural           |
|   |   |   |                 |                | references are       |
|   |   |   |                 |                | 1794.42 and RUS SI   |
|   |   |   |                 |                | 1794-1, Exhibit F.   |
+---+---+---+-----------------+----------------+----------------------+
| E |   |   | For an EA,      | A.  After 30   | See summary public   |
| A |   |   | notify          |     day of     | notice charts in     |
| 2 |   |   | Applicant to    |     first      | Exhibit I of State   |
| 1 |   |   | publish the     |                | Supplement. The      |
|   |   |   | FONSI public    |    publication | preliminary notice's |
|   |   |   | notice. If the  |     of the     | format is in         |
|   |   |   | project has     |     combined   | "Exhibit M - FONSI   |
|   |   |   | components      |                | Notice for an        |
|   |   |   | located in a    |   "preliminary | Environmental        |
|   |   |   | floodplain or   |     notice"    | Assessment or        |
|   |   |   | wetland, or     |     and        | Combined FONSI and   |
|   |   |   | project         |     "notice of | FINAL Notice" and is |
|   |   |   | adversely       |     EA         | contained in CA RUS  |
|   |   |   | impacts         |                | Staff Instruction    |
|   |   |   | historic        | availability", | 1794-1. There is no  |
|   |   |   | cultural        |     publish    | waiting period after |
|   |   |   | resources issue |     any        | these notices unless |
|   |   |   | a combined      |     required   | the SEC determines   |
|   |   |   | FONSI notice    |     final      | there were           |
|   |   |   | and "Final      |     public     | substantive comments |
|   |   |   | Notice". NOTE:  |     notice.    | on the previous      |
|   |   |   | Important       |                | notices, and the EA  |
|   |   |   | farmland does   | B.  Have the   | was significantly    |
|   |   |   | not require a   |     RD/PO      | modified. The SEC    |
|   |   |   | "final notice". |     review the | may direct an        |
|   |   |   |                 |     notice     | additional 15-day    |
|   |   |   |                 |     before it  | comment period.      |
|   |   |   |                 |     is         | RD/PO is to document |
|   |   |   |                 |     published. | the completion of    |
|   |   |   |                 |                | the public notice    |
|   |   |   |                 |                | process on CA RUS    |
|   |   |   |                 |                | Staff Instruction    |
|   |   |   |                 |                | 1794-1, Exhibit H.   |
|   |   |   |                 |                | All public notices   |
|   |   |   |                 |                | will be newspaper    |
|   |   |   |                 |                | public notices       |
|   |   |   |                 |                | unless otherwise     |
|   |   |   |                 |                | approved by the SEC. |
|   |   |   |                 |                | Procedural reference |
|   |   |   |                 |                | is RUS Regulation    |
|   |   |   |                 |                | 1794.                |
+---+---+---+-----------------+----------------+----------------------+
| E | C |   | Required        | Applicant      | Procedural reference |
| A | E |   | mitigation      | provides a     | is RUS Regulations   |
| 2 | 2 |   | measures are    | schedule for   | 1794.17(b)(2).       |
| 2 | 0 |   | included in the | completing the |                      |
|   |   |   | LOC.            | mitigation     |                      |
|   |   |   |                 | measures.      |                      |
|   |   |   |                 | Applicant      |                      |
|   |   |   |                 | accomplishes   |                      |
|   |   |   |                 | all mitigation |                      |
|   |   |   |                 | measures at    |                      |
|   |   |   |                 | the            |                      |
|   |   |   |                 | appropriate    |                      |
|   |   |   |                 | time and prior |                      |
|   |   |   |                 | to project     |                      |
|   |   |   |                 | completion.    |                      |
|   |   |   |                 | This should be |                      |
|   |   |   |                 | part of the    |                      |
|   |   |   |                 | ER/EA.         |                      |
+---+---+---+-----------------+----------------+----------------------+
| E | C |   | USDA RD may     |                | Procedural           |
| A | E |   | approve the     |                | references are RUS   |
| 2 | 2 |   | funding after   |                | Regulations 1794.44  |
| 3 | 1 |   | above process   |                | and RUS Bulletin     |
|   |   |   | has been        |                | 1794A-602, par. 1.5. |
|   |   |   | completed and   |                |                      |
|   |   |   | any required    |                | RD/PO is to document |
|   |   |   | review comment  |                | the completion of    |
|   |   |   | periods have    |                | required public      |
|   |   |   | expired.        |                | notices on CA RUS    |
|   |   |   |                 |                | Staff Instruction    |
|   |   |   |                 |                | 1794-1, Exhibit H.   |
+---+---+---+-----------------+----------------+----------------------+
| E | C |   | RD/PO does      |                | Procedural           |
| A | E |   | follow-up post  |                | references are RUS   |
| 2 | 2 |   | construction    |                | Regulations          |
| 4 | 2 |   | monitoring of   |                | 1794.17(b)(3) and    |
|   |   |   | any required    |                | RUS Bulletin         |
|   |   |   | mitigation      |                | 1794A-602, par. 1.6. |
|   |   |   | measures. If    |                |                      |
|   |   |   | project changes |                |                      |
|   |   |   | prepare a       |                |                      |
|   |   |   | supplement to   |                |                      |
|   |   |   | the EA.         |                |                      |
+---+---+---+-----------------+----------------+----------------------+

> (Continuation Page)

**ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT** (Continuation Page)

> **RUS PUBLIC NOTICE REQUIREMENTS**

+---------------+-----------+--------------+-----------+--------------+
| # Categori    |           |              |           |              |
| cal Exclusion |           |              |           |              |
|               |           |              |           |              |
| **Public      |           |              |           |              |
| Notice        |           |              |           |              |
| R             |           |              |           |              |
| equirements** |           |              |           |              |
+---------------+-----------+--------------+-----------+--------------+
| **Proposed    | **Pr      | **Review     | **"Final  | **Review     |
| [Conversion   | eliminary | Comment      | Notice"   | Comment      |
| ]{.underline} | Notice    | Period ^3^   | R         | Period ^3^   |
| of Resource** | R         | (days)**     | equired** | (days)**     |
|               | equired** |              |           |              |
+---------------+-----------+--------------+-----------+--------------+
| None          | No        | N/A          | No        | N/A          |
+---------------+-----------+--------------+-----------+--------------+
| Important     | Yes       | 30           | Yes       | 0            |
| Farmland ^1^  |           |              |           |              |
+---------------+-----------+--------------+-----------+--------------+
| Wetland ^4^   | Yes       | 30           | Yes       | 0            |
+---------------+-----------+--------------+-----------+--------------+
| Floodplains   | Yes       | 30           | Yes       | 0            |
| ^4^           |           |              |           |              |
+---------------+-----------+--------------+-----------+--------------+
| Cultural      | Yes       | 30           | Yes       | 0            |
| Resources ^2^ |           |              |           |              |
+---------------+-----------+--------------+-----------+--------------+
| 1.  Includes  |           |              |           |              |
|     Important |           |              |           |              |
|     Farmland  |           |              |           |              |
|     ( as      |           |              |           |              |
|     defined   |           |              |           |              |
|     by DR     |           |              |           |              |
|     9500-3)   |           |              |           |              |
|               |           |              |           |              |
| 2.  For       |           |              |           |              |
|     Cultural  |           |              |           |              |
|     Resources |           |              |           |              |
|     in the    |           |              |           |              |
|     context   |           |              |           |              |
|     of the    |           |              |           |              |
|     NHPA, the |           |              |           |              |
|     term      |           |              |           |              |
|               |           |              |           |              |
|   "converted" |           |              |           |              |
|     refers to |           |              |           |              |
|     an        |           |              |           |              |
|     "adverse  |           |              |           |              |
|     effect.   |           |              |           |              |
|               |           |              |           |              |
| 3.  Comment   |           |              |           |              |
|     periods   |           |              |           |              |
|     are       |           |              |           |              |
|               |           |              |           |              |
|    calculated |           |              |           |              |
|     from the  |           |              |           |              |
|     date of   |           |              |           |              |
|     the       |           |              |           |              |
|     **first** |           |              |           |              |
|               |           |              |           |              |
|  publication. |           |              |           |              |
|               |           |              |           |              |
| 4.  The term  |           |              |           |              |
|               |           |              |           |              |
|    conversion |           |              |           |              |
|     excludes  |           |              |           |              |
|     work      |           |              |           |              |
|     relating  |           |              |           |              |
|     to        |           |              |           |              |
|     utility   |           |              |           |              |
|     lines,    |           |              |           |              |
|     i.e.,     |           |              |           |              |
|     utility   |           |              |           |              |
|     line work |           |              |           |              |
|     does not  |           |              |           |              |
|     require a |           |              |           |              |
|     public    |           |              |           |              |
|     notice if |           |              |           |              |
|     the area  |           |              |           |              |
|     is        |           |              |           |              |
|     restored  |           |              |           |              |
|     to its    |           |              |           |              |
|     original  |           |              |           |              |
|               |           |              |           |              |
|    condition. |           |              |           |              |
+---------------+-----------+--------------+-----------+--------------+

+-----------------+---------+---------+-------+-------+------+--------+
| ### Environme   |         |         |       |       |      |        |
| ntal Assessment |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|                 |         |         |       |       |      |        |
| **Public Notice |         |         |       |       |      |        |
| Requirements**  |         |         |       |       |      |        |
+-----------------+---------+---------+-------+-------+------+--------+
|                 | *       |         |       | **    |      |        |
|                 | *Enviro |         |       | FONSI |      |        |
|                 | nmental |         |       | Not   |      |        |
|                 | Ass     |         |       | ice** |      |        |
|                 | essment |         |       |       |      |        |
|                 | N       |         |       |       |      |        |
|                 | otice** |         |       |       |      |        |
+-----------------+---------+---------+-------+-------+------+--------+
| **Proposed      | **S     | **Also, | **R   | **Sta | **A  | **     |
| Conversion of,  | tandard | Include | eview | ndard | lso, | Review |
| Locating        | Notice  | the     | Co    | EA    | Inc  | C      |
| Facilities in,  | of      | Prel    | mment | FONSI | lude | omment |
| or Adverse      | Availab | iminary | P     | Not   | the  | Period |
| Impact to the   | ility** | N       | eriod | ice** | "F   | ^4,5^  |
| Listed          |         | otice** | ^4^   |       | inal | (d     |
| Resource**      |         |         | (da   |       | N    | ays)** |
|                 |         |         | ys)** |       | otic |        |
|                 |         |         |       |       | e"** |        |
+-----------------+---------+---------+-------+-------+------+--------+
| None of the     | Yes     | No      | 30    | Yes   | No   | 0 or   |
| below           |         |         |       |       |      | 15     |
+-----------------+---------+---------+-------+-------+------+--------+
| Important       | Yes     | Yes     | 30    | Yes   | Yes  | 0 or   |
| Farmland ^1^    |         |         |       |       |      | 15     |
+-----------------+---------+---------+-------+-------+------+--------+
| Wetlands ^2^    | Yes     | Yes     | 30    | Yes   | Yes  | 0 or   |
|                 |         |         |       |       |      | 15     |
+-----------------+---------+---------+-------+-------+------+--------+
| Floodplain ^2^  | Yes     | Yes     | 30    | Yes   | Yes  | 0 or   |
|                 |         |         |       |       |      | 15     |
+-----------------+---------+---------+-------+-------+------+--------+
| Cultural        | Yes     | Yes     | 30    | Yes   | Yes  | 0 or   |
| Resource ^3^    |         |         |       |       |      | 15     |
+-----------------+---------+---------+-------+-------+------+--------+
| 1.  Includes    |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     Important   |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     Farmland    |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     (as defined |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     by DR       |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     9500-3).    |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|                 |         |         |       |       |      |        |
| 2.  Refers to a |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     proposal    |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     (excluding  |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     utility     |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     lines)      |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     located in  |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     a wetland   |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     or          |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     floodplain, |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     i.e.,       |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     utility     |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     line work   |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     does not    |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     require a   |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     public      |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     notice if   |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     the area is |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     restored to |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     its         |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     original    |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     condition.  |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|                 |         |         |       |       |      |        |
| 3.  An adverse  |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     affect for  |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     Cultural    |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     Resources   |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     is defined  |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     in the      |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     context of  |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     the NHPA.   |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|                 |         |         |       |       |      |        |
| 4.  Review      |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     comment     |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     period is   |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     calculated  |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     from the    |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     date of the |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     **first**   |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|                 |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|    publication. |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|                 |         |         |       |       |      |        |
| 5.  An          |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     additional  |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     15-day      |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     review      |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     comment     |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     period is   |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     only        |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     necessary   |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     if          |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     substantive |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     comments    |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     have been   |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     received    |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     and the EA  |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     has been    |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|                 |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|   significantly |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     amended.    |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     This        |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|                 |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|   determination |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     is made by  |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     the Rural   |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     Development |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|     State       |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|                 |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|   Environmental |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|                 |         |         |       |       |      |        |
|    Coordinator. |         |         |       |       |      |        |
+-----------------+---------+---------+-------+-------+------+--------+

NOTE: Samples of the content for these notices are contained in Section
5 of RUS Bulletin 1794A-602, National "Guide for Preparing the
Environmental Report for Water and Waste Projects". This document is
available on the RUS Public Website at
[http://www.usda.gov/rus/water/regs.htm](http://www.usda.gov/rus/water/wwregs.shtml).
Click on B 1794A-602. The RD/PO will provide a copy of the sample notice
and guidance for its use. The RD/PO should review the public notice
before it is published.

**NOTE:** The Rural Economic and Community Development Services is
currently known as USDA Rural Development.

# PROGRAMMATIC AGREEMENT

**AMONG**

**THE RURAL ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT SERVICES,**

**THE CALIFORNIA STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICER,**

**AND THE ADVISORY COUNCIL ON HISTORIC PRESERVATION**

**REGARDING THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE**

**RURAL ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT SERVICES'**

**PROGRAMS IN CALIFORNIA**

WHEREAS, the California Offices of the Rural Economic and Community
Development Services (RECDS) is authorized under the Consolidated Farm
and Rural Development Act (7 U.S.C. 1921, as amended) and the Housing
Act of 1949 (42 U.S.C. 1471, as amended) to carry out various activities
and programs assisting rural development; and

WHEREAS, the RECDS has determined that the implementation of its
activities and programs may have an effect on properties that are listed
in or eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places
(National Register), and has consulted with the Advisory Council on
Historic Preservation (Council) and the California State Historic
Preservation Officer (SHPO) pursuant to Section 800.13 of the
regulations, 36 CFR Part 800, implementing Section 106 of the National
Historic Preservation Act 16 U.S.C. 470f; and

WHEREAS, many of RECDS' programs and activities subject to compliance
with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act have a
minimal potential to affect historic properties;

NOW, THEREFORE, the RECDS, the Council, and the SHPO agree that the
RECDS shall administer the subject activities and programs in accordance
with the following stipulations to satisfy their Section 106
responsibilities for individual undertakings.

STIPULATIONS

The RECDS shall ensure that the following measures are carried out:

I. APPLICABILITY

This Programmatic Agreement (PA) outlines procedures which will
substitute for the Section 106 process outlined in the Council's
regulations, 36 CFR Part 800, for all RECDS undertakings. This PA does
not apply to the Housing Preservation Grants program, that is addressed
in a separate agreement between the FmHA, the Council, and the National
Conference of State Historic Preservation Officers executed in 1986, and
which still applies to the Housing Preservation Grants now administered
by the RECDS.

II\. DEFINITIONS

A. The definitions included in the Council's regulations at 36 CFR 800.2
apply to this PA, and selected definitions are set out in this
Stipulation for reference:

> 1\. UNDERTAKING means any project, activity, or program that can
> result in changes in the character or use of historic properties, if
> any such historic properties are located in the area of potential
> effects. The project, activity, or program must be under the direct or
> indirect jurisdiction of the RECDS; or licensed, or assisted by the
> RECDS to be covered by this PA. Undertakings include new and
> continuing projects, activities, or programs, and any of their
> elements.
>
> 2\. AREA OF POTENTIAL EFFECT (APE) means the geographic area or areas
> within which an undertaking may cause changes in the character or use
> of historic properties, if any such properties exist.
>
> 3\. HISTORIC PROPERTY means any prehistoric or historic district,
> site, building, structure, or object included in, or eligible for
> inclusion in, the National Register.
>
> 4\. INDIAN TRIBES means the governing body of any Indian tribe, band,
> nation, or other group that is recognized as an Indian tribe by the
> Secretary of the Interior and for which the United States holds land
> in trust or restricted status for that entity or its members.

B. Other selected definitions included for reference have been set out
or are implicit in the descriptions of the participants in the Section
106 process included in 36 CFR 800.1(c):

> 1\. INTERESTED PERSONS are those organizations and individuals that
> are concerned with the effects of an undertaking on historic
> properties. For purposes of this PA, Indian tribes shall be described
> as interested persons, but retain the rights to participate in the
> Section 106 review detailed in this PA pursuant to 36 CFR
> 800.1(c)(ii).
>
> 2\. APPLICANTS for RECDS assistance include private individuals,
> businesses, not-for-profit groups, and public agencies that are
> applying for financial assistance or approval actions from the RECDS.
> The requested assistance or approvals may relate to housing, small
> rural businesses, or rural community facilities and infrastructure
> improvements. RECDS may request that the Applicant prepare the
> necessary information and analyses to fulfill the requirements of this
> PA, and may permit the Applicant to consult with the SHPO to define
> and perform the RECDS's identification efforts under Stipulation V.A.

III\. IDENTIFICATION OF UNDERTAKINGS AND THE AREA OF POTENTIAL EFFECTS

The RECDS shall determine if the activity it intends to permit, fund, or
carry out constitutes an undertaking. If the RECDS determines that an
activity is an undertaking, it shall establish the APE for each
undertaking. The APE will be redefined, if needed, to include the entire
historic structure, site, or object, when any portion of that structure,
site, or object, is within an APE.

IV\. PROGRAM ACTIVITIES AND INDIVIDUAL PROJECTS EXEMPT FROM SHPO OR
COUNCIL REVIEW

A. For purposes of this PA, the RECDS has reviewed the current programs,
projects, and activities in consultation with the SHPO and the parties
have agreed that the undertakings and activities included in Appendix A
of this PA will not be reviewed by the SHPO or Council pursuant to
Section 106. RECDS will report such activities to the SHPO under the
process outlined in Stipulation IX. of this PA. RECDS is not required to
determine an APE for programs, projects, or activities listed in
Appendix A.

B. If RECDS determines that a proposed undertaking is not exempt from
review pursuant to Stipulation IV. A., it will request a records search
from the appropriate Information Center of the California Historical
Resources File System (Information Center) to identify historic
properties that may be located in the APE. If the Information Center
does not identify historic properties in the APE and: 1) does not
recommend that RECDS perform an archeological survey; or 2) if RECDS
performs the archeological survey recommended by the Information Center
and does not identify properties that may be eligible for inclusion in
the National Register, then RECDS may determine that no historic
properties are located in the APE, document the finding, and proceed
with the undertaking without review by the SHPPO or Council.

V. IDENTIFICATION AND EVALUATION OF HISTORIC PROPERTIES

A. If the Undertaking is not exempted from review pursuant to
Stipulation IV. A. or RECDS determines that historic properties may be
located in the APE pursuant to Stipulation IV. B., RECDS or the
Applicant acting on RECDS' behalf shall consult with the appropriate
Information Center and Interested Persons to identify historic
properties within the APE. These identification efforts shall extend to
all buildings, structures, objects, archeological sites, and sites that
may have special importance to Native Americans or other Interested
Persons and that appear to be fifty (50) or more years old. RECDS will
assess the recommendations of the Information Center and conduct any
surveys that RECDS determines necessary. RECDS will forward the
information to the SHPO regarding the basis and results of the RECDS's
identifications efforts with its determination of National Register
eligibility pursuant to Stipulation V.B.

B. The RECDS shall evaluate each property identified pursuant to
Stipulation V. A. by applying the National Register Criteria, 36 CFR
60.4, in consultation with the SHPO to each property within the APE. The
RECDS shall notify the SHPO in writing of its determination regarding
the National Register eligibility, and the SHPO shall, within thirty
(30) days, notify the RECDS if it agrees or disagrees with its
determination. The SHPO may request that the RECDS reevaluate a
previously evaluated property if warranted by the passage of time or
changing perceptions of significance.

C. If the RECDS and SHPO do not agree on the National Register
eligibility of a property, or if the Council or the Secretary of the
Interior request, the RECDS shall obtain a determination from the
Secretary of the Interior pursuant to applicable National Park Service
regulations.

VI\. ASSESSMENT OF EFFECTS TO HISTORIC PROPERTIES

A. The RECDS shall apply the Criteria of Effect and Adverse Effect, in
accordance with 36 CFR 800.9 to all Historic Properties located in the
APE. This consultation with the SHPO should take place as early as
possible in the planning stages of the undertaking, when the widest
range of project alternatives is open for consideration. The RECDS will
provide the SHPO with a full description of the undertaking and its
possible effects to Historic Properties, including maps, photographs,
drawings, archaeological site records and reports, and the views of the
Applicant, affected local governments, Indian tribes, Federal agencies,
interested persons, and the public as appropriate:

> 1\. If the RECDS determines that an undertaking will have No Effect on
> historic properties, the RECDS will notify the SHPO in writing of this
> finding. If the SHPO does not object to the finding within fifteen
> (15) days, the undertaking may proceed without further review.
>
> 2\. If the RECDS determines that an undertaking will not adversely
> affect a historic property or the undertaking meets one of the
> exceptions to the Criteria of Adverse Effect, 36 CFR 800.9(c), the
> RECDS will notify the SHPO of the finding. If the SHPO does not object
> to the finding within thirty (30) days, the undertaking may proceed
> without further review.
>
> 3\. The RECDS shall consult further with the SHPO or Council, as
> appropriate, if: (a) any person requests that the Council review RECDS
> findings in accordance with 36 CFR 800.6(e); (b) the undertaking
> changes in ways that could affect historic properties; (c) previously
> undocumented historic properties are discovered during the
> implementation of the undertaking or if a known historic property will
> be affected in an unanticipated manner; (d) a historic property that
> was to be avoided has been inadvertently or otherwise affected; or (e)
> any condition of the undertaking; such as a delay in implementation or
> implementation in phases over time, may justify reconsideration of the
> current National Register status of historic properties within the
> APE.
>
> 4\. If RECDS determines that the project will adversely effect a
> historic property, it will determine if the property will be treated
> according to the Standard Mitigation Measures set in Stipulation VII.
> or if the consultation process set out in 36 CFR 800.5(c) should be
> followed and will notify the SHPO in writing of its decision. The
> consultation process set out in 36 CFR 800.5(e) will be followed and
> RECDS will provide the Council with an adverse effect notice if:
>
> a\. RECDS determines not to implement the standard mitigation
> measures;
>
> b\. the SHPO withdraws from consultation;
>
> c\. the undertaking will adversely affect a National Historic
> Landmark;
>
> d\. the undertaking has known public opposition relating to historic
> properties;
>
> e\. the undertaking may affect a historic property containing human
> remains;
>
> f\. the SHPO objects in writing within thirty (30) calendar days after
> receipt of RECDS's notice that it will proceed with the Standard
> Mitigation Measures; or
>
> g\. the SHPO determines that the effects of an undertaking cannot be
> adequately addressed by the Standard Mitigation Measures set out
> below.

VII\. STANDARD MITIGATION MEASURES

A. A Standard Mitigation Measures Agreement (SMMA) will be developed
according to the following procedures:

> 1\. RECDS, SHPO, the Applicant and other interested parties, if
> appropriate, shall consult to develop a written agreement that
> establishes the mitigation and recordation measures, such as but not
> limited to the salvage, storage, and reuse of any significant
> architectural features that may otherwise be demolished. The Council
> will not be a party to this agreement. The SMMA shall be signed by
> RECDS, SHPO, and other consulting parties, including the Applicant, to
> acknowledge that all specified measures shall be fulfilled as a
> condition of RECDS assistance. An SMMA shall include one or more of
> the following measures, modified as necessary, to consider the effects
> of the specific undertaking:
>
> a\. [Recordation]{.underline}: RECDS shall ensure that the historic
> property is recorded prior to its demolition or alteration according
> to a Recordation Plan developed in consultation with the SHPO. At a
> minimum this plan will establish recordation methods and standards,
> and designate the appropriate archives for the deposit of this
> material. RECDS and the SHPO may mutually agree to waive the
> recordation requirement if the affected historic property will be
> rehabilitated in substantial, although not complete conformance with
> the Standards.
>
> b\. [Curation]{.underline}: If the property will be demolished, RECDS,
> the SHPO, and the property owner will consult to determine if the
> property contains significant architectural features that could be
> reused or curated. If such features exist, RECDS, the SHPO, and the
> property owner will develop measures to ensure that the selected
> features are removed in a manner that minimizes damage and are
> delivered to an appropriate party for curation or reuse.
>
> c\. [Data Recovery]{.underline}: If an archeological property will be
> affected by the undertaking, RECDS, the SHPO, and the property owner
> will consult to develop a data recovery plan consistent with the
> Secretary of the Interior's Standards and Guidelines for Archeological
> Documentation (48 FR 44734-37) and take into account the Council's
> publication, "Treatment of Archeological Properties."

VIII\. DISCOVERIES AND UNFORESEEN EFFECTS

A. The RECDS should plan for discoveries made during project
implementation, particularly when an undertaking will take place within
an area where buried archaeological deposits may be encountered. Such
discovery plans shall be prepared in consultation with the SHPO and
interested Native American groups and shall be submitted to the SHPO for
review and approval prior to the commencement of the undertaking.

B. If the RECDS completes the review process established by this
Programmatic Agreement and finds, after implementing the undertaking,
that it will affect a previously unidentified property that may be
eligible for inclusion in the National Register or will affect a known
historic property in an unanticipated manner, the RECDS shall direct the
Applicant to take all reasonable measures to avoid or minimize harm to
the property until the RECDS concludes consultation with the SHPO. If
the newly discovered property has not previously been included in or
determined eligible for the National Register, the RECDS may assume that
the property is eligible for purposes of this PA. The RECDS will notify
the SHPO at the earliest possible time of the discovery and will
coordinate with the Applicant to develop actions that will take the
effects of the undertaking into account. The RECDS will notify the SHPO
of any time constraints, and the RECDS and SHPO will mutually agree upon
the timeframe for this consultation. The RECDS will provide the SHPO
with written recommendations reflecting its consultation with the SHPO.
If the SHPO does not object to the RECDS' recommendations within the
agreed upon timeframe, the RECDS will ensure that the Applicant modifies
the scope of work as necessary to implement the recommendations.

IX\. REPORTING

A. The RECDS will notify the SHPO of its determinations made under
Stipulation IV. A. and B. through its NEPA Finding of No Significant
Impact (FONSI) public notification process, as required by RECDS'
environmental procedures contained in FmHA Instruction 1940-G. If the
SHPO does not notify RECDS within fifteen (15) days that it disagrees
with the FONSI, RECDS may proceed with the undertaking.

B. The RECDS shall provide the SHPO and the Council with an initial
biannual report on November 30, 1997 that summarizes the actions taken
to implement the terms of this PA and recommends any action or revisions
that should be considered during the next reporting period. The parties
will review this information to determine if amendments to the PA are
necessary. Subsequent reports will be developed by RECDS at the request
of the Council.

X. PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT AND RESOLVING PUBLIC OBJECTIONS

A. The RECDS shall develop a public participation program in accordance
with the guidance contained in the Council's publication, "Public
Participation in Section 106 Review: A Guide for Agency Officials"
(February 1989) to effectively notify and involve the public and
interested persons in undertakings that may affect historic properties.
The public participation program shall be incorporated into the RECDS'
existing public involvement procedures. The RECDS shall consult with the
Council and the SHPO to help develop this program, and will provide the
Council and the SHPO with an opportunity to review and comment on the
program.

B. At any time during the implementation of the measures contained in
this PA should an objection to any such measure or the manner in which
it is implemented be raised by a member of the public, the RECDS shall
consult with the objecting party, the SHPO, and the Council, as to
address the objection. If the objection pertains to the RECDS' decision
to implement standard mitigation measures pursuant to Stipulation VII.
above, the RECDS shall terminate the abbreviated consultation process
and initiate consultation with the SHPO and the Council pursuant to 36
CFR 800.5(e).

XI\. DISPUTE RESOLUTION

Should the SHPO or the Council object within the timeframes provided by
this PA to any plans, specifications, or other documentation provided
for review pursuant to this PA, the RECDS shall consult with the SHPO or
the Council to resolve the objection. If the RECDS determines that the
objection cannot be resolved, the RECDS shall forward all documentation
regarding the dispute to the Council. Within thirty (30) days of receipt
of the documentation, the Council will either (1) provide the RECDS with
recommendations which the RECDS will take into account in reaching a
decision on the dispute, or (2) notify the RECDS that it will comment
pursuant to 36 CFR 800.6(b), and proceed to comment. Any Council
recommendation or comment will be understood to pertain only to the
dispute, and the RECDS's responsibility to carry out all actions under
this PA that are not the subject of the dispute will remain unchanged.

XII\. ANTICIPATORY DEMOLITION

The RECDS agrees that it will not grant assistance to an Applicant who,
with the intent to avoid the requirements of this PA or the National
Historic Preservation Act, has intentionally significantly adversely
affected a historic property to which the assistance would relate, or
having legal power to prevent it, allowed such significant adverse
effect to occur. The RECDS may, after consultation with the Council,
determine that circumstances justify granting such assistance despite
the adverse effect created or permitted by the Applicant.

XIII\. IMPLEMENTATION AND TRAINING

The RECDS will notify all appropriate RECDS staff of the execution of
this PA and develop management procedures to ensure that its terms are
implemented. The SHPO and the Council may provide occasional basic
historic preservation assistance to RECDS staff and representatives.
This may include, but not be limited to, the implementation or this PA
and the application of the Secretary of the Interior's Standards and
Guidelines for Rehabilitation 36 CFR Part 67, and the Secretary of the
Interior's Standards and Guidelines for Archaeological Documentation.

XIV\. MONITORING

The SHPO and the Council may monitor any activities carried out pursuant
to this PA, and the Council will review such activities as requested.
The RECDS will cooperate with the SHPO and the Council in carrying out
these monitoring responsibilities.

XV AMENDMENTS

Any party to this PA may request it be amended, whereupon the parties
will consult in accordance with 36 CFR 800.13 to consider such an
amendment.

XVI\. TERMINATION

Any party to this PA may terminate it by providing thirty (30) days
notice to the other parties, provided that the parties will consult
during the period prior to termination to seek agreement on amendments
or other actions that would avoid termination. In the event of
termination, the RECDS will comply with 36 CFR 800.4 through 800.6 with
regard to individual undertakings covered by this PA.

XVII\. FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THIS AGREEMENT

In the event the RECDS does not carry out the terms of this PA, the
RECDS will comply with 36 CFR 800.4 through 800.6 with regard to
individual undertakings covered by this PA.

EXECUTION AND IMPLEMENTATION of this PA evidences that the RECDS has
afforded the Council a reasonable opportunity to comment on the
administration of its various programs and further evidences that the
RECDS has satisfied its Section 106 responsibilities for all individual
undertakings of the programs.

**ADVISORY COUNCIL ON HISTORIC PRESERVATION**

By:\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
date:\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Robert D. Bush, Executive Director

**RURAL ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT SERVICES**

By:\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
date:\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Michael M. Reyna, State Director

**CALIFORNIA STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICER**

By:\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
date:\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Cherilyn Widell, State Historic Preservation Officer

[APPENDIX A]{.underline}

**LIST OF ACTIVITIES EXCLUDED FROM THE INFORMATION CENTER**

**AND SHPO REVIEW**

[A. GENERAL ACTIVITIES]{.underline}

1.  Financial assistance which does not involve structures that appear
    to be fifty (50) or more years old; and

2.  Financial assistance which will not result in changes in the use of
    land.

[B. HOUSING ASSISTANCE]{.underline}

1.  Financial assistance for the purchase of an existing single or
    multi-family dwelling;

2.  Single or multi-family home construction in existing improved
    subdivisions that does not require additional ground disturbance;

3.  RECDS' approval to build an individual structure on an improved lot
    within a previously built subdivision;

4.  Self-help Technical Assistance Grants;

5.  Technical Supervisory Assistance Loans and Grants; and

6.  Weatherization of any housing unit that does not appear to be
    fifty (50) or more years old or otherwise eligible for inclusion in
    the National Register of Historic Places, either individually or as
    a contributing member of a historic district.

[C. COMMUNITY AND BUSINESS PROGRAMS]{.underline}

1.  New or replacement utilities within previously disturbed road
    right-of-way or utility corridors that do not involve extensive
    ground disturbance;

2.  New or replacement water wells and related facilities, provided they
    do not involve extensive ground disturbance;

3.  Modifications to existing water or wastewater treatment plants where
    the area is disturbed by previous construction, and do not involve
    extensive ground disturbance;

4.  For business and community facility projects:

    a\. Construction on sites where the ground has been extensively
    disturbed; or

    b\. Construction that does not involve extensive ground disturbance
    on developed

    parcels or parcels located within developed industrial or commercial
    areas.

5\. Water storage facilities that do not involve extensive ground
disturbance.