CHAPMAN UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
CHAPMAN, KANSAS

DRAFT
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY
9221 WARD PARKWAY, SUITE 300
KANSAS CITY, MO 64114-3372

MARCH 2009


Table of Contents
1.0 INTRODUCTION					
2.0 PURPOSE AND NEED					
3.0 ALTERNATIVES					
3.1	ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED AND DISMISSED		
3.2	NO ACTION					
3.3	PROPOSED ACTION				
4.0 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND IMPACTS			
4.1	GEOLOGY					
4.1.1	Geology, Soils and Seismicity			
4.1.2	Radon						
4.2	WATER RESOURCES					
4.2.1	Waters of the United States Including Wetlands	
4.2.2	Floodplains					
4.2.3	Water Quality				
4.3	BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES				
4.3.1	Flora and Fauna					
4.3.2	Threatened and Endangered Species		
4.3.3	Migratory Birds					
4.4	CULTURAL RESOURCES				
4.5	SOCIOECONOMIC RESOURCES				
4.5.1	Executive Order 12898, Environmental Justice	
4.6	HAZARDOUS MATERIALS				
4.7	NOISE						
4.8	AIR QUALITY					
4.9	PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY			
4.10	TRAFFIC CIRCULATION, VOLUME, AND PARKING ACCESS	
5.0 CUMULATIVE IMPACTS					
6.0 PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT					
7.0 COORDINATION AND PERMITS				
8.0 CONCLUSION						
9.0 REFERENCES						
10.0 LIST OF PREPARERS					

List of Tables*
Table 1    Affected Environment and Impacts Summary
Table 2    Federal and State Listed Threatened/ Endangered Species in Dickinson County, Kansas

List of Figures
Figure 1   Project Location Map (this figure depicts the Chapman USD property [22-acre tract] and elementary school footprint on an aerial image)
Figure 2   USGS Topographic Map (this figure depicts the Chapman USD property [22-acre tract] and elementary school footprint on a USGS topographic map)

*Please note - the figures are not included in the text version of this document, but a hard copy of the draft environmental assessment [including Figures 1 & 2] is available for 
review between March 6, 2009 to April 4, 2009 at the Chapman USD District Office located at 413 North Marshall, Chapman, Kansas.  

List of Appendices
Appendix A  Agency Coordination
Appendix B  Public Notice


Abbreviations and Acronyms

CFR		Code of Federal Regulations
CO		carbon monoxide
EA 		Environmental Assessment 
EIS		Environmental Impact Statement
ESA 		Environmental Site Assessment 
FEMA 		Federal Emergency Management Agency 
FIRM		Flood Insurance Rate Map
FONSI		Finding of No Significant Impact
FPPA		Farmland Protection Policy Act
KDHE		Kansas Department of Health and Environment
KDWP 		Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks
KSDE		Kansas State Department of Education
KVE 		Kaw Valley Engineering, Inc.
NAAQS 		National Ambient Air Quality Standards 
NFIP		National Flood Insurance Program
NEPA 		National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 
NHPA 		National Historic Preservation Act 
NO2		nitrogen dioxide
NPDES		National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
NRCS		Natural Resources Conservation Service
NRHP 		National Register of Historic Places 
O3		ozone
PCB		polychlorinated biphenyls
pCi/L		picoCuries per liter
PM10		particulate matter with a diameter less than or equal to 10 micrometers
RCRA		Resource Conservation and Recovery Act
SHPO		State Historic Preservation Officer
SO2		sulfur dioxide
SWP2		Stormwater Pollution Prevention
USACE		U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
USCB		U.S. Census Bureau
USD		Unified School District
USDA		U.S. Department of Agriculture
USEPA		U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 
USFWS 		U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 
USGS		U.S. Geological Survey



1.0  INTRODUCTION
As a result of severe storms, flooding and tornadoes in Kansas between May 22 and June 16, 2008, a major 
disaster was declared under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, 42 U.S.C.  
5121-5206 (the Stafford Act).  The disaster was designated as FEMA-1776-DR.  One of the events that 
occurred during the disaster period was a tornado that struck the town of Chapman, Kansas.  On the night of 
June 11, 2008, a tornado touched down in Chapman that damaged approximately 60 percent of the buildings 
in the town, including the Chapman Unified School District (USD) elementary school.  
As a result of damage sustained from the tornado, Chapman USD has applied for funding under the Public 
Assistance Program administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).  In accordance 
with the Stafford Act, FEMA is required to review the environmental effects of the proposed action prior to 
making a funding decision.  In accordance with 44 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 10, FEMA has 
prepared this environmental assessment to meet the requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act of 
1969 (NEPA) and the Council on Environmental Qualitys implementing regulations at 40 CFR Parts 1500-
1508.  The purpose of this environmental assessment is to analyze and assess the potential environmental 
impacts associated with the proposed action.


2.0  PURPOSE AND NEED
The original Chapman USD elementary school building was substantially damaged by the June 11th tornado.  
A damage assessment indicated the structure to be more than 50 percent damaged and therefore eligible for 
replacement.  The original three-story building was 24,338 square-feet in area and housed 227 students.  The 
damaged building will be demolished.  Currently, the Chapman USD is utilizing 24 temporary buildings to 
serve as classrooms and administrative offices for the elementary school.  The current situation is short-term in 
that the Chapman USD has entered into a temporary agreement for locating the temporary classroom facilities 
(modular trailers) on the grounds of a local church.  Bussing the students to one or more of the other three 
elementary schools in the Chapman USD was not feasible because these facilities are too small and are 
currently at full capacity. 
The purpose of the proposed action is to replace the damaged elementary school building with a new facility 
so that the Chapman USD can provide a permanent, functional and effective environment for their elementary 
school students and faculty.


3.0  ALTERNATIVES
3.1	ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED AND DISMISSED
One option for the reconstruction of the Chapman USD elementary school was to rebuild on the site of the 
former (currently damaged) school building.  This option was considered but dismissed due to the constraints 
at the site that dont allow for adequate space for future expansion and parking.  Another reason for not 
rebuilding onsite is that the current location is in the 100-year floodplain of Chapman Creek.   Another option 
that was considered but dismissed was to bus the 227 students to other schools.  Bussing the students to one or 
more of the other three elementary schools in the Chapman USD was not feasible because these facilities are 
currently full.  The total enrollment of the other three schools is 199.  The other schools are not able to 
accommodate an additional 227 students.  The Chapman USD, along with FEMA, determined that the most 
cost effective solution would be to rebuild the facility on a new site.

3.2	NO ACTION
The No Action alternative would not reconstruct the Chapman USD elementary school facility.  Under this 
scenario, Chapman USD would continue to provide its elementary-level education program in temporary 
buildings but would have to seek another solution when the current two-year agreement with the local church 
expires.  As discussed above, bussing the students to one or more of the other three elementary schools in the 
Chapman USD is not feasible because these facilities are currently full.  The nature of the current, temporary 
buildings (location, size, amenities, etc.) does not provide a suitable long-term solution to the need for a new, 
permanent elementary school facility for the Chapman USD.        

3.3	PROPOSED ACTION
The new Chapman USD elementary school would be a one-story facility 69,697 square-feet in size with a 
basement/safe room of 7,462 square-feet.  The new facility would be located on a 21 acre tract northwest of 
downtown Chapman.  This site was chosen because it was the only available tract outside of the floodplain, 
large enough and within or adjacent to the Chapman city limits. The new construction would include a parking 
lot (18,980 square-feet) and continuation of Irish Drive on the east side to Nicholson Road to the west (1,416 
linear feet, 35 feet wide).  Figure 1 shows a layout of the planned facilities on an aerial image.  The 
construction of the new facility would consist of site preparation (grading and/or excavation) and construction 
of the buildings and paved areas.  


4.0  AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND IMPACTS
The following table summarizes the potential impacts of the proposed action, and identifies mitigation 
measures to minimize those impacts, where appropriate.  Following the summary table, each environmental 
resource area is evaluated in greater detail.

Table 1    

Affected Environment and Impacts Summary

Affected Environment	Impacts								Mitigation

Geology, Soils 
and Seismicity		The proposed action would cause some disturbance of the 	Exposed soils could be subject to	
			shallow soils and surficial geology as part of the site 	erosion, therefore, silt fence and/or	
			preparation work.  Since the site is relatively flat/gently 	other storm water runoff best
			rolling, the grading needed at the site would be minor.  In 	management practices will be
			general, effects to geology and soils would be minor and 	utilized during construction.
			temporary in nature.  

Radon			With the movement and excavation of the shallow soils and 	The contractor will use radon-
			the construction of the facility there is a potential for 	resistant construction techniques to 
			encountering elevated concentrations of radon gas at the site.	minimize the potential for radon gas   
											to migrate into the proposed 
											elementary school.

Waters of the 		The proposed project would not impact waters of the U.S., 	N/A
U.S. including 		including wetlands, and therefore would not require a 
Wetlands		Section 404 permit.  There are no navigable waters in the 		
			area; therefore, Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act of
			1899 does not apply.
 
Floodplains		The proposed action is not located in a floodplain.		N/A
		
Water Quality		The proposed action would disturb more than one acre, 		The primary requirement of the 
			therefore would require a construction stormwater general 	general permit is for the contractor or 
			permit from the KDHE.  						permitee to develop and implement a 
											Stormwater Pollution Prevention 
											plan.  

Flora and Fauna		The construction of the proposed action would result in 	N/A	
			clearing of approximately seven acres of vegetation; 		
			however the remaining 13 acres would remain as pasture.  
			The effects to wildlife are expected to be minimal and 
			temporary in nature.
		
Threatened and 		The proposed action would have no effect on threatened 		N/A
Endangered 		and endangered species.
Species

Migratory Birds		No adverse impacts are expected to migratory birds.		N/A 

Cultural 		Coordination with the State Historic Preservation Officer 	N/A
Resources		concluded that the proposed project would have no effect 
			on historic properties.

Socioeconomic 		Construction of the proposed elementary school would 		N/A
Resources		alleviate the crowded elementary schools and need for 
			temporary classrooms within Chapman USD.  In addition, 
			the construction of the new elementary school is expected to 
			create jobs in the short term.

E.O. 12898 - 		Benefits of the new elementary school would be equally 		N/A
Environmental 		received by residents, students and employees in the school 
Justice			district.  Construction of the proposed project would not 
			have an adverse effect on minority or low-income populations.

Hazardous 		Based on the information presented in the Phase I and II 	The contractor will take appropriate 
Materials		ESAs, there is no evidence of environmental degradation on 	measures to prevent, minimize, and 
			the project site. 						control the spill of hazardous 
											materials in the construction staging area.

Noise			The proposed action would result in a slight increase in noise 	N/A
			during the construction of the facility.  The increase in noise 
			is expected to be minor and short term.  No permanent 
			changes to noise levels in the area are expected to be 
			associated with the proposed project.

Air Quality		Pollutant emissions from construction equipment may result 	The contractor will be required to 
			in minor, temporary effects to air quality in the area 		keep all equipment in good working 
			immediately surrounding the construction activity.  		order to minimize air pollution.
			Vehicular exhaust emissions would be produced by the 		After construction, the new 
			operation of diesel engines and other construction 		elementary school is not expected to 
			equipment.  These effects would be localized and of short 	degrade area air quality.	
			duration.  

Public Health 		The construction of the new elementary school is expected to 	N/A
and Safety		follow all applicable federal, state, and local safety laws and 
			guidelines.  No adverse effects to the health and safety of 
			Chapman USD students, employees, and others associated 
			with Chapman USD are expected.

Traffic, 		Access to the proposed elementary school would be provided 	N/A
Circulation, 		from the west via Nicholson Road and from the east via Irish
Volume, and 		Drive.  The traffic in the project area is expected to increase 
Parking Access		on weekdays during the morning and afternoon hours when 
			parents are dropping off and picking up students from 
			school.  Construction personnel and equipment would 
			require access to the site, which would temporarily increase 
			traffic in the project area.  


4.1	GEOLOGY
4.1.1	Geology, Soils and Seismicity
Dickinson County is located in the physiographic region known as the Flint Hills of east-central Kansas.  The 
Flint Hills region is a wide, gently rolling landscape extending nearly 200 miles from an area near the 
Nebraska border on the north into Oklahoma on the south.  This region represents one of last great preserves 
of tallgrass prairie in the country.  The Flint Hills are underlain by lower Permian-aged limestone, shale and 
evaporates.  Review of the Map of Surficial Geology of Kansas, indicates that the bedrock underlying the 
project area is mapped as the Chase Group, which consists of seven different shale and limestone formations.  
The Soil Survey of Dickinson County, Kansas, indicates the soils mapped in the project area are within the 
Valentine-Ortello-Wells Soil Association.  In general, this association consists of deep to very deep, well-
drained soils that occur on nearly level to moderately steep uplands.  Specifically, the main soils mapped 
across the majority of the project area include, Valentine loamy fine sand, 5 to 15 percent slopes, and Carwile 
loam, 0 to 1 percent slopes (NRCS 2008).  
The Farmland Protection Policy Act (FPPA) (P.L. 97-98, Sec. 1539-1549; 7 U.S. Code 4201, et seq.) was 
enacted to minimize the unnecessary conversion of farmland to non-agricultural uses as a result of federal 
actions.  The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is responsible for protecting significant 
agricultural lands from irreversible conversions that result in the loss of an essential food or environmental 
resource.  Prime farmland is characterized as land with the best physical and chemical characteristics for the 
production of food, feed, forage, fiber, and oilseed crops.  This land is either used for food or fiber crops or is 
available for those crops, but is not urban, built-up land, or water areas.  Unique farmland is land other than 
prime farmland that is used for production of specific high-value food and fiber crops, such as citrus, olives, 
cranberries, and other fruits and vegetables.  It has the special combination of soil quality, location, growing 
season, and moisture supply needed to economically produce sustained high quality or high yields of specific 
crops when treated and managed according to acceptable farming methods.  None of the soil units mapped on 
the site are classified as prime farmland or unique farmlands (NRCS 2008).  
Executive Order 12699 (Seismic Safety of Federal and Federally Assisted or Regulated New Building 
Construction) requires the use of appropriate seismic design and construction standards and practices for 
federally funded projects involving new building construction.  According to the National Seismic Hazard 
Mapping Project, there is currently a low probability of seismic activity within the project area (USGS 2008).

Alternative A  No Action:  The No Action alternative would no have any impact on the soils or geology of 
the area.

Alternative B  Build New Elementary School:  Construction of a new elementary school at the site would 
cause some disturbance of the shallow soils and surficial geology as part of the site preparation work.  Since 
the site is relatively flat/gently rolling, the grading needed at the site would be minor.  Exposed soils could be 
subject to erosion, therefore, silt fence and/or other storm water runoff best management practices would be 
utilized during construction.  In general, effects to geology and soils would be minor and temporary in nature.  
The contractor, design engineer and architect would as required by E.O. 12699 follow appropriate seismic 
design and construction standards and practices. Since no soils on the site are classified as prime or unique 
farmlands, coordination with NRCS under the FPPA was not required.

4.1.2	Radon
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that is produced by the decay of uranium found within soil, 
rocks, and groundwater.  The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) currently considers residential 
radon exposure at or above 4.0 picoCuries per liter (pCi/L) as a public health risk.  The EPA created a map for 
each county in the U.S. which identifies the potential for elevated indoor radon levels, with Zone 1 having the 
highest potential for predicted average indoor screening levels greater than 4.0 pCi/L.  According to the EPAs 
Map of Radon Zones, Dickinson County is mapped within Zone 1 (USEPA 2008b).  The information 
reviewed is limited in nature and should not be used other than as a guide to anticipating radon levels in any 
specific location.  Site specific radon testing would need to be performed prior to construction of the proposed 
facility in order to determine whether or not radon levels are elevated.  Radon-resistant construction 
techniques may vary for different foundations and site requirements, but in general include five key concepts:

-Gas Permeable Layer  Usually a 4-inch layer of clean gravel used beneath the slab or flooring system 
to allow soil-gas to move freely. 

-Plastic sheeting  Polyethelene sheeting is placed on top of the gas permeable layer and under the slab 
to help prevent migration of the soil gas from entering the facility.

-Vent Pipe  A PVC pipe runs from the gas permeable layer up through the structure to the roof to 
safely vent radon above the facility.

-Junction Box  An electrical junction box is installed in case an electrical venting fan is needed later.

-Sealing and Caulking  Openings in the concrete foundation are sealed to prevent soil gas from 
entering the facility.

Alternative A  No Action:  The No Action alternative would not involve any movement or excavation of soil 
therefore there would be no potential for adverse effects caused by elevated concentrations of radon gas.

Alternative B  Build New Elementary School:  With the movement and excavation of the shallow soils 
associated with the construction of this facility there is a potential for encountering elevated concentrations of 
radon gas at the site.  Therefore the contractor will use applicable radon-resistant construction techniques to 
minimize the potential for radon gas to migrate into the proposed elementary school.

4.2	WATER RESOURCES
4.2.1	Waters of the United States Including Wetlands
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) regulates the discharge of dredged or fill material into waters of 
the U.S., including wetlands, pursuant to Section 404 of the Clean Water Act.  Wetlands are identified as those 
areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or groundwater at a frequency and duration sufficient to 
support, and that under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life 
in saturated soil conditions.  In addition, Executive Order 11990 (Protection of Wetlands) directs federal 
agencies to take actions to minimize the destruction, loss, or degradation of wetlands and to preserve and 
enhance the natural and beneficial values of wetlands on federal property.  A site visit was performed by a 
qualified wetland specialist to identify potential waters of the U.S., including wetlands, on or adjacent to the 
proposed project site.  

Alternative A  No Action:  The No Action alternative would have no effect on wetlands or other waters of the 
U.S. and would not require a Section 404 permit.

Alternative B  Build New Elementary School:  An onsite review of the project location did not find any 
potential areas meeting the definition of waters of the U.S., including wetlands.  As depicted in Figure 2, there 
is an unnamed tributary of Chapman Creek located north of the proposed school location, but within the 
Chapman USD property (21-acre tract).  This tributary did not exhibit evidence of an ordinary high water 
mark and therefore is not defined as a waters of the U.S..  This area would not be affected by the proposed 
project.  The proposed project would not impact waters of the U.S., including wetlands, and therefore would 
not require a Section 404 permit.  There are no navigable waters in the area; therefore, Section 10 of the Rivers 
and Harbors Act of 1899 does not apply.

4.2.2	Floodplains
Floodplains generally refer to 100-year floodplains as set by FEMA and are delineated on Flood Insurance 
Rate Maps (FIRM) or Flood Hazard Boundary Maps for all communities that are members of the National 
Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).  The City of Chapman and Dickinson County are participants in the NFIP.
Executive Order 11988 (Floodplain Management) requires federal agencies to avoid or minimize development 
in the floodplain except when there are no practicable alternatives.  According to the NFIP Flood Insurance 
Rate Map for Dickinson County Incorporated and Unincorporated Areas (Map Number 20041C0085C), the 
proposed project site is not located within a 100 or 500 year floodplain.

Alternative A  No Action:  The No Action alternative would not result in impacts to the 100 or 500 year 
floodplain.

Alternative B  Build New Elementary School:  Under the proposed action, no impact to the floodplain is 
anticipated, because the site is not located in a floodplain.

4.2.3	Water Quality
The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is responsible for administering the states 
stormwater management program.  The Kansas stormwater program is closely modeled after the federal 
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) program, which requires stormwater be treated to 
the maximum extent practicable.  Owners or operators of any project or combination of projects who engage 
in construction activities which will disturb one or more acres must have authorization to discharge 
stormwater runoff under the construction stormwater general permit S-MCST-0701-1.  

Alternative A  No Action:  The No Action alternative would have no effect water quality.

Alternative B  Build New Elementary School:  The proposed action would have no adverse impacts to 
ground or surface water quality.  The City of Chapman Utilities Department would supply the proposed 
elementary school with drinking water.  The proposed action would disturb more than one acre, therefore 
would require a construction stormwater general permit from the KDHE.  The primary requirement of the 
general permit is for the contractor or permitee to develop and implement a Stormwater Pollution Prevention 
(SWP2) plan.  When the project is complete and final stabilization of the site has been achieved, the contractor 
must notify KDHE to terminate the authorization to discharge stormwater runoff.

4.3	BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES
4.3.1	Flora and Fauna
According to the Ecoregions of Nebraska and Kansas, the project area is located in the Central Great Plains 
within the Smoky Hills ecoregion (Chapman 2001).  This region is transitional, with a variable climate and 
natural vegetation ranging from tall-grass prairie in the east to mixed-grass prairie in the west.  Land use 
consists of cropland and grassland with dry-land winter wheat as the principal crop.  The average precipitation 
ranges from 24 to 28 inches per year.
The project site is located on agricultural land currently used for cattle grazing.  It consists primarily of upland 
grasses with a wooded area along an unnamed tributary of Chapman Creek which runs along the northern 
portion of the Chapman USD property (21-acre tract).  The herbaceous community is dominated by little 
bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium) and other prairie grasses.  The wooded area along the drainage on the 
project site is dominated by Osage Orange (Maclura pomifera).
Wildlife occurring in the project area is expected to be typical of the location and geologic make-up of eastern 
Kansas.  According to the KDWP, several wildlife species are abundant in Kansas including white-tailed deer, 
wild turkey, coyotes, bobwhite quail, ring-necked pheasant and prairie chickens.  Migratory birds common to 
Kansas are doves, rails, snipe, ducks, crows, teal, sandhill crane, geese and woodcock.  
The Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act was enacted to protect fish and wildlife when federal actions result in 
control or modification of a natural stream or body of water.  No streams or other water bodies would be 
controlled or modified as a result of the proposed action; therefore, the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act is 
not applicable.

Alternative A  No Action:  The No Action alternative would have no effect on the flora and fauna.

Alternative B  Build New Elementary School:  The construction of the proposed action would result in 
clearing of approximately seven acres of vegetation; however the remaining 13 acres would remain as pasture.  
The effects to wildlife are expected to be minimal and temporary in nature.

4.3.2	Threatened and Endangered Species
The Endangered Species Act of 1973 provides for the protection of all listed threatened and endangered 
species from take defined as "to harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture, or collect or 
attempt to engage in any such conduct."  Harm is further defined by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) 
to include significant habitat modification or degradation that results in death or injury to listed species by 
significantly impairing behavioral patterns such as breeding, feeding, or sheltering.  Harass is defined by the 
USFWS as actions that create the likelihood of injury to listed species to such an extent as to significantly 
disrupt normal behavior patterns which include, but are not limited to, breeding, feeding, or sheltering.
Rare species protection was implemented within the State of Kansas by the Kansas Nongame and Endangered 
Species Act of 1975.  This act provided the state authority to define and list endangered and threatened 
species.  Endangered species are any species of wildlife whose continued existence as a viable component of 
the state's wild fauna is determined to be in jeopardy.  Threatened species are any species of wildlife that 
appear likely, within the foreseeable future, to become an endangered species.  These designations protect the 
animal from commercial or personal possession.  The law also gives authority to the Kansas Department of 
Wildlife and Parks to review projects requiring a state or federal permit or those funded by tax revenues.  This 
process is designed to safeguard listed wildlife. 
The USFWS lists one species as endangered in Dickinson County, the Topeka shiner (Notropis topeka) 
(USFWS 2008).  The KDWP lists the following six species as threatened in Dickinson County: Bald Eagle 
(Haliaeetus leucocephalus), Eastern Spotted Skunk (Spilogale putorius), Piping Plover (Charadrius melodus), 
Snowy Plover (Charadrius alexandrinus), Sturgeon Chub (Macrhybopsis gelida), and Topeka Shiner; and the 
following five species as endangered in Dickinson County: American Burying Beetle (Nicrophorus 
americanus), Eskimo Curlew (Numenius borealis), Least Tern (Sterna antillarum), Peregrine Falcon (Falco 
peregrinus), and the Whooping Crane (Grus Americana) (KDWP 2008a).  

Table 2    

Federal and State Listed Threatened/ Endangered Species in Dickinson County, Kansas

Common Name			USFWS Status		KDWP Status		Comments

American Burying Beetle		n/a			Endangered		Not recorded in Dickinson County. Historical 
										occurrence in adjacent county.

Bald Eagle			n/a			Threatened		Migratory/ Transient Species

Eastern Spotted Skunk		n/a			Threatened		Known historic range in Dickinson County but no 
										state designated critical habitat.

Eskimo Curlew			n/a			Endangered		Migratory/ Transient Species

Least Tern			n/a			Endangered		Migratory/ Transient Species

Peregrine Falcon		n/a			Endangered		Migratory/ Transient Species

Piping Plover			n/a			Threatened		Migratory/ Transient Species

Snowy Plover			n/a			Threatened		Migratory/ Transient Species

Sturgeon Chub			n/a			Threatened		No perennial streams present in project area.

Topeka Shiner			Endangered		Threatened		No perennial streams present in project area.

Whooping Crane			n/a			Endangered		Migratory/ Transient Species

Sources: USFWS 2008, KDWP 2008a, KDWP 2008b

Alternative A  No Action:  The No Action alternative would have no effect on threatened or endangered 
species.

Alternative B  Build New Elementary School:  Both the KDWP and USFWS lists of endangered, threatened, 
proposed and candidate species for Dickinson County were reviewed on December 1, 2008 and a field visit of 
the project area occurred on December 3, 2008.  If any of the avian species defined above as migratory/ 
transient were to occur in the project area they would likely be transitory, due to the lack of the vegetation or 
landscapes typically used for resting or feeding present in the project area.  In regard to the two fish described 
above, there are no perennial streams located in the project area and the closest perennial stream is Chapman 
Creek which is located approximately 0.4 mile north-east of the proposed project.  The American burying 
beetle has never been recorded in Dickson County, but has been recorded in Saline County which shares its 
eastern border with Dickinson County.  The Eastern spotted skunk has been documented in Dickinson County, 
however there is no state designated critical habitat present.  The proposed action would have no effect on 
threatened and endangered species.

4.3.3	Migratory Birds
The Migratory Bird Treaty Act provides that it is unlawful for anyone to kill, capture, collect, possess, buy, 
sell, trade, ship, import or export, any migratory bird, or part, or nest or egg thereof, unless they first obtain an 
appropriate Federal Permit, issued pursuant to the Migratory Bird Treaty Act regulations, authorizing such 
activity.  

Alternative A  No Action:  The No Action alternative would have no effect on migratory birds.

Alternative B  Build New Elementary School:  No adverse impacts are expected to migratory birds.  

4.4	CULTURAL RESOURCES
In addition to review under NEPA, consideration of impacts to cultural resources is mandated under Section 
106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, as amended and as implemented by 36 CFR Part 800.  
Requirements include the need to identify significant historic properties that may be impacted by the proposed 
action or alternatives within the projects area of potential effect.  Historic properties are defined as 
archeological sites, standing structures, or other historic resources listed in or determined eligible for listing in 
the National Register of Historic Places.  If adverse effects on historic, archeological, or cultural properties are 
identified, then agencies must consider effects of their activities and attempt to avoid, minimize, or mitigate 
the impacts to these resources.

Alternative A  No Action:  The No Action alternative would have no effect on cultural resources in the area.

Alternative B  Build New Elementary School:  Coordination with the State Historic Preservation Officer 
(SHPO) concluded that the proposed project would have no effect on historic properties (see letter in 
Appendix A).  However, if artifacts or other potential historic materials are discovered during construction, 
work would be suspended and the applicant would contact the Kansas State Historic Preservation Officer and 
the FEMA Regional Environmental Officer.

4.5	SOCIOECONOMIC RESOURCES
The City of Chapman, population 1,241 and per capita income of $16,842, is located in Dickinson County 
(USCB 2000).  According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Dickinson County has a population of 19,344 and a per 
capita income of $17,780.  The primary industries in Dickinson County are related to agriculture.
The Chapman USD provides education for about 973 students in grades pre-kindergarten through twelve 
(KSDE 2009).  Chapman USD operates six schools including four elementary schools, one middle school and 
one high school.  Those employed at these schools consist of teachers, administrative staff, food service and 
maintenance workers.

Alternative A  No Action:  The No Action alternative could possibly have an adverse impact on Chapman 
USD, and consequently the community within Chapman USD because the lack of a fourth elementary school 
could hinder educational processes.

Alternative B  Build New Elementary School:  Currently, the Chapman USD is utilizing temporary buildings 
to serve as classrooms and administrative offices for the elementary school.  Construction of the proposed 
elementary school would alleviate the crowded elementary schools and the need for temporary classrooms 
within Chapman USD.  In addition, the construction of the new elementary school is expected to create jobs in 
the short term.

4.5.1	Executive Order 12898, Environmental Justice
On February 11, 1994, President Clinton signed Executive Order 12898, entitled Federal Actions to Address 
Environmental Justice in Minority Populations and Low-Income Populations.  The Executive Order directs 
federal agencies to focus attention on human health and environmental conditions in minority and/or low-
income communities.  The Executive Orders goals are to achieve environmental justice, fostering non-
discrimination in federal programs that substantially affect human health or the environment.  It also requires 
that agencies identify and address, as appropriate, disproportionately high and adverse human health or 
environmental effects on its programs, policies, and activities on minority populations and low-income 
populations in the United States.
The population within the Chapman USD is made up of 92.91% white, 3.29% Hispanic, 2.06% African 
American and 1.75% other (KSDE 2009).  From 2007-2008, 33.20% of the students within the Chapman USD 
were classified as economically disadvantaged.  For the same time period, all school districts within Kansas 
had an average of 38.67% of students classified as economically disadvantaged.  The economically 
disadvantaged classification indicates eligibility for participation in federal and other public assistance 
programs.  This indicator is used to measure family income levels within schools and school districts.

Alternative A  No Action:  The No Action alternative would not have disproportionate impacts on minority 
or low-income populations in the City of Chapman or Dickinson County.

Alternative B  Build New Elementary School:  Benefits of the new elementary school would be equally 
received by residents, students and employees in the school district.  Construction of the proposed project 
would not have an adverse effect on minority or low-income populations.

4.6	HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
Hazardous wastes, as defined by the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), are defined as a 
solid waste, or combination of solid wastes, which because of its quantity, concentration, or physical, 
chemical, or infectious characteristics may; (1) cause, or significantly contribute to, an increase in mortality or 
an increase in serious irreversible or incapacitating reversible illness or; (2) pose a substantial present or 
potential hazard to human health or the environment when improperly treated, stored, transported or disposed 
of or otherwise managed.  Hazardous materials and wastes are regulated in Kansas by a combination of 
federal laws and state laws.  Federal regulations governing the assessment and disposal of hazardous wastes 
include RCRA, the RCRA Hazardous and Solid Waste Amendments, Comprehensive Environmental 
Response, Compensation and Liability Act, Solid Waste Act, and Toxic Substances Control Act.
Pursuant to RCRA, a review of previous available environmental documents was conducted to determine the 
potential for environmental degradation in the project area due to past practices and activities that have 
occurred on the site or adjacent sites which could potentially impact the site.  The environmental documents 
reviewed were prepared by Kaw Valley Engineering, Inc. of Lenexa, Kansas and included the following: 
Revised Phase I Environmental Site Assessment, Chapman Elementary School, Irish Drive and Saint Patricks 
Drive, Chapman, Kansas, dated October 31, 2008 and Limited Phase II Environmental Site Assessment, 
Chapman Elementary School, Irish Drive and Saint Patricks Drive, Chapman, Kansas, dated December 11, 
2008.  The Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) included a review of regulatory databases compiled 
on September 24, 2008.  The regulatory databases provide information regarding the presence of regulated 
facilities in the project area that may generate, transport, store and/or dispose of hazardous materials, and if 
any of these facilities are listed as having a past or present record of environmental impact or are under 
investigation for an environmental impact.  Review of the regulatory databases did not reveal regulated sites 
within the prescribed radius to the project site.  
The Phase I ESA did not reveal recognized environmental conditions at the project site, except for the 
following: a surface dump area located on the southwest portion of the Chapman USD property.  Discarded 
items in this area include old paint cans, 55-gallon drums, two 1,000-gallon storage tanks, old automobiles and 
parts, farming equipment, refrigerators, tires, scrap metal, and numerous other miscellaneous items.  In 
addition, a closed landfill, owned by the City of Chapman, is located offsite to the immediate southwest of the 
Chapman USD property.  The landfill was reported to be in operation from about 1958 to the early 1970s.  The 
landfill disposal procedures at the time included the digging of a long trench, dumping waste, periodically 
burning the waste, covering with soil, and the excavation of a new trench once full.  The adjacent closed 
landfill is currently covered with soil and natural vegetation with no evidence of waste exposed at the surface.  
Surface drainage and probable groundwater movement from the closed city landfill was reported to be along 
the west side of the subject property and then crossing the subject property at the north end.  A Phase II ESA 
was recommended to evaluate the potential of contamination of the site due to past usages.                  
The Phase II ESA was conducted on November 18, 2008 and included the advancement of six soil borings on 
the Chapman USD property.  Two soil borings were advanced in the vicinity of the Citys former landfill 
located near the southwest corner of the property, three in the area of the surface dump area on the southwest 
portion of the property, and one in the drainage located on the north end of the property.  The six borings were 
advanced to depths ranging from 3.0 to 15.0 feet below ground surface and groundwater was not encountered 
while drilling.  A total of 11 soil samples were collected from the six borings and submitted to the laboratory 
for analysis.  None of the soil samples collected were found to be above the clean-up values of the Kansas 
Department of Health and Environments applicable health-based regulatory cleanup standards.
The above environmental document review was also supplemented with a site reconnaissance of the project 
area.  The site reconnaissance was performed to identify obvious visual indications of present or past activities 
which have or could have contaminated the site.  Other than the discarded items noted in the surface dump 
area on the southwest portion of the Chapman USD property, no other evidence of potentially hazardous 
materials, substances, or recognized environmental conditions were observed.  The discarded items are 
considered waste and would be disposed in an appropriate permitted landfill prior to the sale of the property.  
The subject property is not listed on any of the federal or state regulatory databases reviewed and no regulated 
facilities or businesses of environmental concern are listed in the general area.  No evidence of overhead 
electrical transformers potentially containing polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) was noted during our site 
reconnaissance.  In addition, no indications of pipelines crossing the project area were noted in the field or on 
the USGS topographic map reviewed for this project (USGS 1979).  

Alternative A  No Action:  The No Action alternative would not disturb any hazardous materials or create 
any potential hazard to human health.    

Alternative B  Build New Elementary School:  Chapman USD has performed a Phase I and II ESA on the 
proposed site.  The objective of these investigations were to evaluate the potential for contamination on the 
site due to past usages on the site and the adjacent property.  The results of the soil analysis completed during 
the Phase II ESA were found to be below the clean-up values of the Kansas Department of Health and 
Environments applicable health-based regulatory cleanup standards.  Based on this information, there is no 
obvious evidence of environmental degradation on the subject property.  If hazardous constituents are 
unexpectedly encountered during construction, all construction activities will cease and FEMA will be 
contacted regarding the future eligibility of this project.  The contractor will take appropriate measures to 
prevent, minimize, and control the spill of hazardous materials in the construction staging area.

4.7	NOISE
Noise is generally defined as an unwanted sound.  Noise sources in the project area are typical of agricultural 
areas, primarily farm vehicles.  Noise levels within and adjacent to the project would increase during the 
proposed construction activities as a result of construction and earth-moving equipment.  The noise levels 
generated would be limited to workday daylight hours for the duration of the work.  

Alternative A  No Action:  The No Action alternative would not result in impacts to noise receivers in the 
area.

Alternative B  Build New Elementary School:  The proposed action would result in a slight increase in noise 
during the construction of the facility.  The increase in noise is expected to be minor and short term.  No 
permanent changes to noise levels in the area are expected to be associated with the proposed project.

4.8	AIR QUALITY
The Clean Air Act, which was last amended in 1990, requires USEPA to set National Ambient Air Quality 
Standards (40 CFR part 50) for pollutants considered harmful to public health and the environment.  The 
Clean Air Act established two types of national air quality standards.  Primary standards set limits to protect 
public health, including the health of "sensitive" populations such as asthmatics, children, and the elderly.  
Secondary standards set limits to protect public welfare, including protection against decreased visibility, 
damage to animals, crops, vegetation, and buildings.
The USEPA has established National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for six principal pollutants 
called criteria pollutants.  These pollutants include sulfur dioxide (SO2), particulate matter with a diameter less 
than or equal to 10 micrometers (PM10), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), ozone (O3), and lead.  
The USEPA has designated specific areas as NAAQS attainment or non-attainment areas.  Attainment areas 
are any areas that meet ambient air quality standards.  Non-attainment areas are any areas that do not meet (or 
that contribute to ambient air quality in a nearby area that does not meet) the quality standard for a pollutant.  
According to the USEPA, the entire State of Kansas is currently designated as an attainment area for all 
NAAQS (USEPA 2008a).  

Alternative A  No Action:  The No Action Alternative would have no effect on air quality.

Alternative B  Build New Elementary School:  Pollutant emissions from construction equipment may result 
in minor, temporary effects to air quality in the area immediately surrounding the construction activity.  
Vehicular exhaust emissions would be produced by the operation of diesel engines and other construction 
equipment.  These effects would be localized and of short duration.  The contractor would be required to keep 
all equipment in good working order to minimize air pollution.  

4.9	PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY
Safety and security issues that were considered in this environmental assessment include the health and safety 
of area residents, the public at-large, and the protection of personnel involved in activities related to the 
implementation of the proposed project.

Alternative A  No Action:  The No Action alternative would not likely have an adverse effect on health and 
safety.

Alternative B  Build New Elementary School:  The construction of the new elementary school is expected to 
follow all applicable federal, state, and local safety laws and guidelines.  No adverse effects to the health and 
safety of Chapman USD students, employees, and others associated with Chapman USD are expected.

4.10	TRAFFIC CIRCULATION, VOLUME, AND PARKING ACCESS
The proposed project is located near the intersection of 2650 Avenue and Nicholson Road just north of the 
Chapman city limits  The project is bounded by I-70 on the north, Highway 40 on the south, Quail Road on the 
west and Marshall Avenue/Highway 206 on the east.

Alternative A  No Action:  The No Action alternative would have no effect on transportation in the area.

Alternative B  Build New Elementary School:  Access to the proposed elementary school would be provided 
from the west via Nicholson Road and from the east via Irish Drive.  The traffic in the project area is expected 
to increase on weekdays during the morning and afternoon hours when parents are dropping off and picking 
up students from school.  Construction personnel and equipment would require access to the site, which would 
temporarily increase traffic in the project area.  


5.0  CUMULATIVE IMPACTS
Cumulative impacts are those effects on the environment that result from the incremental effect of an action 
when added to past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future actions, regardless of what agency (federal or 
nonfederal) or person undertakes such other actions.  Cumulative effects can result from individually minor 
but collectively significant actions taking place over a period of time.
There are several projects planned and currently under construction within the tornado damaged portion of the 
City of Chapman.  These repair and reconstruction activities would be expected to cause temporary 
inconveniences resulting from construction traffic, detours, noise and dust.  In addition, these projects would 
be expected to create jobs in the short term.  On a cumulative basis, these impacts would be short-term and 
localized until the reconstruction process has been completed.
There is no master plan for the City of Chapman (T. Hummel, City of Chapman, February 25, 2009).  There is 
a new housing development currently being developed adjacent to the proposed new school location.  Plans 
for access to this new development and local streets are being coordinated and developed.  The location for the 
new elementary school does not conflict with planning or zoning requirements of the City of Chapman.  
The Chapman USD school system has an enrollment of approximately 1000 students.  The facilities include 
four elementary schools, one middle school and one high school.  The three facilities within Chapman 
(elementary school, middle school and high school) were damaged by the June 11th tornado.  The overall plan 
of the school district is to repair/reconstruct the middle school and high school in place and, as discussed in 
this document, reconstruct the elementary school on a new location.  The cumulative effects of reconstructing 
the elementary school are beneficial considering the intent of Chapman USD to maintain K-12 educational 
facilities in the City Chapman.  The beneficial effects also extend to parents and students who reside within 
and near Chapman who attend these facilities.  


6.0  PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT
The public was invited to comment on the proposed action and the Draft Environmental Assessment.  A legal 
notice was posted in The Abilene Reflector-Chronicle on March 6, 2009, and on FEMAs website 
(http://www.fema.gov/plan/ehp/envdocuments/index.shtm).  Additionally, the Draft Environmental 
Assessment was made available for review for a period of 30 days at the Chapman USD District Office 
located at 413 North Marshall, Chapman, Kansas.  A copy of the notice is attached in Appendix B.


7.0  COORDINATION AND PERMITS
The following agencies and organizations were contacted and asked to comment on the proposed project.  
Agency correspondence is located in Appendix A.

-Kansas State Historic Preservation Office

-Chapman Unified School District

In accordance with applicable local, state, and federal requirements, the applicant is responsible for obtaining 
any necessary permits or approvals prior to commencing construction at the proposed project site.
The proposed action would require a construction stormwater general permit S-MCST-0701-1 from the 
KDHE.  


8.0  CONCLUSION
The findings of this Environmental Assessment conclude that the proposed construction of the proposed 
elementary school would result in no significant environmental impacts to the human or natural environment; 
therefore, the proposed action meets the requirements of a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) under 
NEPA and the preparation of an Environmental Impact Statement will not be required. 


9.0  REFERENCES
Chapman, S., et. al. 2001. Ecoregions of Nebraska and Kansas (color poster with map, descriptive text, 
summary tables, and photographs). Reston Virginia, U.S. Geological Survey (map scale 1:1,950,000).

Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP). 2008a. Dickinson County  Threatened and Endangered 
Species. Available at http://www.kdwp.state.ks.us/news/Other-Services/Threatened-and-Endangered-
Species/Threatened-and-Endangered-Species/County-Lists/Dickinson-County (viewed on December 
18, 2008).

Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP). 2008b. Species Information. Available at 
http://www.kdwp.state.ks.us/news/Other-Services/Threatened-and-Endangered-Species/Threatened-
and-Endangered-Species/Species-Information (viewed on December 18, 2008).

Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE). 2009. Report Card 2007-2008  USD Chapman 473. 
Available at http://online.ksde.org/rcard/district.aspx?org_no=D0473. (viewed on January 8, 2009).

Kaw Valley Engineering, Inc. (KVE). 2008a. Revised Phase I Environmental Site Assessment, Chapman 
Elementary School, Irish Drive and Saint Patricks Drive, Chapman, Kansas. October 31, 2008.  
Kaw Valley Engineering, Inc. (KVE). 2008b.  Limited Phase II Environmental Site Assessment, Chapman 
Elementary School, Irish Drive and Saint Patricks Drive, Chapman, Kansas. December 11, 2008.

Meriam, D.F., 1963. The Geologic History of Kansas, originally published in the Kansas Geological Survey 
Bulletin 162, http://www.kgs.ku.edu/Publications/Bulletins/162/index.html
[viewed on December 30, 2008].

Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS). 2008. Soil Survey of Dickinson County, Kansas. Web Soil 
Survey 2.1, http://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov/app/ (viewed on December 30, 2008).

Petersen, M.D., and others. 2008. United States National Seismic Hazard Maps: U.S. Geological Survey Fact 
Sheet 20083018, 2 p.

U.S. Census Bureau (USCB). 2000. U.S. Census Bureau  American Fact Finder  Census 2000 Demographic 
Profile Highlights. Available at http://factfinder.census.gov. (viewed on January 8, 2009).

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). 2008a. Currently Designated Nonattainment Areas for All 
Criteria Pollutants.  Available at http://www.epa.gov/air/oaqps/greenbk/ancl3.html (viewed on 
December 18, 2008).

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). 2008b.  EPA Map of Radon Zones.  Available:  
http://www.epa.gov/radon/zonemap.html (viewed on December 2008).

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 2008. Endangered, Threatened, Proposed and Candidate Species  
Kansas Counties.  USFWS Ecological Services Kansas Field Office. December 2008. 

U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). 1964. Topographic Map, 7.5-minute Series, Chapman, Kansas, dated 1964.

U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). 1979. Topographic Map, 7.5-minute Series, Chapman, Kansas, dated 1964, 
photorevised 1979.

U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). 2008. Earthquake Hazards Program, National Hazards Seismic Maps.  
Available:  http://eqhazmaps.usgs.gov/ (viewed on December 30, 2008).


10.0  LIST OF PREPARERS
Carlos Swonke, P.G., Senior Project Manager, AECOM, Austin Texas
Tricia Bruck, Environmental Scientist, AECOM, Austin Texas
Doug Zarker, P.G., Project Manager, AECOM, Austin Texas



APPENDIX A                                                             
Agency Coordination

November 6, 2008

Daniel Crouch
Bowman Bowman Novick Inc
228 Poyntz Avenue
Manhattan KS 6602

Re: 	USD 473 New Elementary School Location
      	City of Chapman
	Dickinson County

Dear Mr.Crouch:

The Kansas State Historic Preservation Office has reviewed its cultural resources files for the area of the above referenced project in accordance with 36 CFR 800.  
The project as proposed should have no effect on properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places or otherwise identified in our files.  This office has 
no objection to implementation of the project.

Any changes to the project area that include additional ground disturbing activities will need to be reviewed by this office prior to beginning construction.  If 
construction work uncovers buried archeological materials, work should cease in the area of the discovery and this office should be notified immediately.

This information is provided at your request to assist you in identifying historic properties, as specified in 36 CFR 800 for Section 106 consultation procedures.  
If you have questions or need additional information regarding these comments, please contact Tim Weston 785-272-8681 (ex. 214). Please refer to the Kansas Review & 
Compliance number (KSR&C#) above on all future correspondence relating to this project.

Sincerely,

Jennie Chin
State Historic Preservation Officer


Patrick Zollner
Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer



APPENDIX B                                                              
Public Notice

U.S. Department of Homeland Security 
9221 Ward Parkway, Suite 300
Kansas City, Missouri, 64114-3372  

PUBLIC NOTICE OF AVAILABILITY 
CHAPMAN UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 
CHAPMAN, DICKINSON COUNTY, KANSAS 
FEMA-1776-DR-KS 

Interested parties are hereby notified that the Federal Emergency Management Agency 
(FEMA) has prepared a Draft Environmental Assessment (DEA) for the construction of a new elementary school within the Chapman Unified School 
District (USD).  The original elementary school was destroyed by a tornado on June 11, 2008.  FEMA was authorized under a Presidential disaster 
declaration (FEMA-1776-DR-KS) to provide Federal disaster assistance to Chapman USD in Dickinson County, Kansas as a result of damages incurred 
during the incident period beginning on May 22, 2008 and ending June 16, 2008 (Section 408 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency 
Assistance Act, 42 USC 5121-5206, as amended (Stafford Act, Public Law 93-288). 

The new facility would be located on a 21 acre tract northwest of downtown Chapman.  The new Chapman USD elementary school would be a one-story 
facility 69,697 square-feet in size with a basement/safe room of 7,462 square-feet.  The new construction would include a parking lot and continuation 
of Irish Drive on the east side to Nicholson Road to the west.

In compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (42 U.S.C. 4371 et seq.), and associated environmental statutes, a DEA has been prepared to 
evaluate the proposed actions potential impacts on the human and natural environment.  The DEA summarizes the purpose and need, site selection process, 
affected environment, and potential environmental consequences associated with the proposed action.  The DEA is available for review between March 6, 2009 to 
April 4, 2009 at the Chapman USD District Office located at 413 North Marshall, Chapman, Kansas.  The DEA can also be viewed and downloaded from FEMAs website at 
http://www.fema.gov/plan/ehp/envdocuments/index.shtm.  Written comments on the DEA can be faxed to FEMAs Regional Office in Kansas City, Missouri at (816) 283-7018.  
Comments should be received no later than 5:00pm on April 4, 2009.  If no substantive comments are received, the DEA will become final and this initial Public Notice 
will also serve as the final Public Notice.  The DEA will then be moved to the archives page at http://www.fema.gov/plan/ehp/envdocuments/archives_index.shtm.