Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H 

West-wide Energy Corridor Interagency Operating Procedures 

This appendix lists the IOPs that were developed under the Section 368 Corridor Program of 

the Energy Policy Act of 2005 and enumerated in the PEIS for the West-Wide Energy 

Corridors (DOE and BLM 2008). This appendix shows how the Gateway West Project would 

conform to these IOPs and provides the location in the main part of the EIS or in 

supplemental documentation in the administrative record where they are discussed. 
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-1 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

Regulatory Compliance 

1 

The appropriate agency, assisted by the applicant, must conduct project-specific NEPA analyses in compliance with Section 102 of NEPA. The scope, content, and type of analysis shall be determined on a projectby-project basis by the Agencies and the applicants. 

BLM is the lead federal agency under NEPA and has coordinated the preparation of an EIS and the determination of compliance with related environmental laws and cooperating agencies. The cooperating agencies include the U.S. Forest Service (Caribou-Targhee, Medicine Bow-Routt, and Sawtooth National Forests); the National Park Service (National Trails Office, Minidoka National Historic Site, Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument, Fossil Butte National Monument, Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, and City of Rocks National Reserve); the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Ecological Services Division, Seedskadee and Cokeville Meadows National Wildlife Refuges); the U.S. Army Corps of 

Engineers; the Bureau of Indian Affairs; the States of Idaho and Wyoming; Idaho Army National Guard; Cassia, Power, and Twin Falls Counties, Idaho; Elko County, Nevada; Lincoln, Sweetwater, and Carbon Counties, Wyoming; the Medicine Bow and Saratoga Encampment-Rawlins Conservation Districts in Wyoming; and the City of Kuna in Idaho.

EINe

2 

The appropriate agency, assisted by the project applicant, must comply with Section 106 of the NHPA on a project by-project basis. Consultation with SHPOs, any federally recognized Tribes, and other appropriate parties as per regulations (36 CFR 800) must begin early in the planning process and continue throughout project development and execution. The ACHP retains the option to comment on all undertakings (36 CFR 800.9). 

A PA is under development for the Gateway West Project and is a collaborative process involving BLM, SHPOs of Wyoming, Idaho, and Nevada, the ACHP, and other consulting parties. 

EIEnCoRethe 3.3EnCuFranSeEnCoRe
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-2 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

In compliance with Section 106 of the NHPA (as amended) and the revised ACHP 3 regulations (36 CFR 800), the BLM initiated and continue government-to-government consultation with seven Native American tribes in the Project area, including the Shoshone-Bannock; Northern Arapaho Business Council; Ute Tribal Council; Northwest Shoshone Band; Eastern Shoshone Business Council; Northern Cheyenne Tribal Council; and Shoshone-Paiute. The BLM also consulted with the Idaho and Wyoming SHPOs. 

EICo

3 

The appropriate agency, assisted by the project applicant, must consult with the USFWS and the NMFS as required by Section 7 of ESA. The specific consultation requirements, as set forth in regulations at 50 CFR Part 402, would be applied on a project-by-project basis. Applicants shall identify known occupied sites, such as nest sites, for threatened and endangered species and special status species. 

Consultation with the USFWS began in March 2008 and has continued throughout the scoping and EIS analysis process. 

EIanFeW

The identification and characterization of TES species within the Analysis Area were completed through the review of available literature, federal and state databases, consultation with federal and state biologists, and the completion of limited biological surveys and remote habitat assessments. 

EIEnCoWEn

The BLM determined that greater sage-grouse surveys were necessary at limited locations along the Proposed Action and its Alternatives. BLM biologists identified specific areas within the Project’s segments that had a high potential for greater sage grouse occurrence, but where very little data regarding possible lek locations existed. These areas were surveyed for both greater sage-grouse and Columbian sharp-tailed grouse during April 2008. The BLM also determined that raptor nest surveys were necessary along specific portions of the Proposed Action and its Alternatives. Raptor nest surveys were conducted by aerial survey methods concurrent with sage and sharp-tail grouse surveys. Additionally, ground nesting raptor surveys were conducted on portions of Segment 2 during the appropriate survey window in the late spring/early summer of 2008. 

EIEnCoWEnFie
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-3 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

The EPMs proposed by the Proponents (Appendix C) state that preconstruction surveys would be completed within specific areas along the Project’s Proposed Action for certain species. Surveys the year prior to construction would be conducted in the Analysis Area in the vicinity of the Project, using agreed-upon protocols, for: black-footed ferret, burrowing owl, Columbian sharp-tailed grouse, greater sage grouse, mountain plover, pygmy rabbit, white-tailed prairie dog, Wyoming pocket gopher, and any other species that are listed between now and the beginning of construction. 

EIEnCoWEnFie

Each of these mitigation measures would be required by the BLM in addition to those measures proposed by the Proponents, presented in each species discussion above, and summarized in Appendix C. 

EIEnCoWMi

4 

The appropriate agency, assisted by the project applicant, must coordinate and consult with NMFS regarding potential impacts to essential fish habitat (EFH) as required by the 1996 reauthorization of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act. 

Not applicable to the states of Wyoming, Idaho, or Nevada. No

Agency Coordination 

1 

Applicants seeking to develop energy transport projects within corridors located on or near DOD facilities or flight training areas (see Appendix L for applicable corridors) must, early in the planning process and in conjunction with the appropriate agency staff, inform and coordinate with the DOD regarding the characteristics and locations of the anticipated project infrastructure. 

The Proponents held, or participated in, a series of Project kickoff meetings that included U.S. Air Force (USAF) Mountain Home Air Force Base, Saylor Creek Bombing Range. The Proponents met with representatives of the USAF Saylor Creek Bombing Range. During the routing study and scoping period, the Proponents met with representatives of Saylor Creek Bombing Range to discuss height restrictions north of the bombing range. 

SitSitLinCoInp
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-4 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

2 

Early in the planning process, applicants seeking ROW authorization within a Section 368 energy corridor that is located within five miles of a unit of the NPS should contact the appropriate Agency staff and work with the NPS regarding the characteristics and locations of anticipated project infrastructure. In those instances where corridors cross lands within the boundaries of a unit of the NPS, the National Park Service Organic Act and other relevant laws and policies shall apply. 

BLM is the lead federal agency under NEPA and has coordinated the preparation of an EIS and the determination of compliance with related environmental laws and cooperating agencies, which include the National Park Service (National Trails Office, Minidoka National Historic Site, Hagerman Fossil 

Beds National Monument, Fossil Butte National Monument, Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, and City of Rocks National Reserve).

EINe

3 

In those instances where projects using energy corridors are proposed to also cross National Wildlife Refuge System lands, the National Wildlife System Administration Act and other relevant laws and policies pertinent to national wildlife refuges shall apply. 

Not applicable because there are no WWE Corridors planned for use through National Wildlife Refuges for the Gateway West Project. 

No

4 

For electricity transmission projects, the applicant shall notify the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as early as practicable in the planning process in order to identify appropriate aircraft safety requirements. 

Activities accompanied by helicopter flight operations would operate under the control of the FAA. The Proponents would file a notice of construction activities, (Federal Regulation Title 14 Part 77) with the FAA. The FAA is concerned with: 1) Any construction or alteration exceeding 200 feet above ground level; and 2) Any construction or alteration: a) within 20,000 feet (3.79 miles) of a public use or military airport that exceeds a 100:1 sloping surface from any point on the runway of each airport with at least one runway more than 3,200 feet; b) within 10,000 feet (1.89 miles) of a public use or military airport that 

exceeds a 50:1 sloping surface from any point on the runway 

of each airport with its longest runway no more than 3,200 feet; and c) within 5,000 feet of a public use heliport that exceeds a 25:1 sloping surface. These regulations do not 

apply to private landing strips. 

EIEnCoAfFrAv
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-5 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

5 

All project applications must reflect applicable findings, mitigation, and/or standards contained in regional land management plans, such as the Northwest Forest Plan, when such regional plans have been incorporated into agency planning guidelines and requirements. Modification of some standards may be needed to reasonably allow for energy transport within a corridor. 

Table 1.5-1 lists the various federal land use plans that provide direction and management standards for activities within their jurisdiction, their year of publication, and the status of their revision. Mitigation measures summarized in Table 2.7-1 are derived from agency planning guidelines and requirements. 

EINePl

Where possible, the proposed Project has already been modified to comply with the plans. Portions of the Proposed Action and the Route Alternatives are still not in compliance with one or more of the plans; therefore, land use plan amendments are included as part of the Proposed Action and Route Alternatives, and the effects are analyzed in Chapter 3. As part of the ROD, the BLM and Forest Service will decide whether to implement the amendments and the significance of the amendments. Table 1.5-2 lists the plans that would require amendment based on the present alignment of the Proposed Route and Route Alternatives. 

EINePlAm

Government-to-Government Coordination 

1 

The appropriate agency, assisted by the project applicant, must initiate governmentto-government consultation with affected Tribes at the outset of project planning and shall continue consultation throughout all phases of the project, as necessary. Agencies should determine how to consult in a manner that reflects the cultural values, socioeconomic factors, and administrative structures of the interested Tribes. 

The BLM initiated government-to-government consultation with seven Native American tribes in the Project area. Table 5.2-2 lists the Native American tribes that have been contacted and summarizes the concerns they have raised to date and the status of consultation. The BLM is continuing government-to-government consultation with these Tribes. 

EIanGo
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-6 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

2 

The agency POC may require the project proponent to prepare an ethnographic study when Tribal consultation indicates the need. The study shall be conducted by a qualified professional selected in consultation with the affected Tribe. 

Ethnographic studies requested by the Shoshone-Paiute, Eastern Shoshone, and Northern Ute Tribes are in progress, and the results of these studies will be used to refine the discussions between the BLM and the Tribes concerning TCPs. 

EIEnCoReReCoEIanGoEt

General 

1 

Applicants seeking to develop an electricity transmission or pipeline project will develop a project-specific Plan of Development (POD). The POD should display the location of the project infrastructure (i.e., towers, power lines) and identify areas of short- and long-term land and resource impacts and the mitigation measures for site-specific and resource-specific environmental impacts. The POD should also include notification of project termination and decommissioning to the agencies at a time period specified by the agencies. 

Applicants submitted an initial POD and have provided three revisions to date. The POD they filed provides detailed information on the currently proposed Project facilities and the steps that the Proponents will follow during construction, operation, and maintenance of the Project. During the course of Project development, further changes are anticipated to the POD. Revisions will be submitted as they become available. The final POD will be appended to the BLM ROW Grant. 

PO

2 

Applicants, working with the appropriate agencies, shall design projects to comply with all appropriate and applicable Agency policies and guidance. 

Where possible, the proposed Project has been designed to conform with land management plans. Portions of the Proposed Route and the Route Alternatives still do not conform with one or more of the plans. As part of the ROD, the BLM and the Forest Service will decide whether to implement an amendment for a corresponding route or alternative if the decision is to grant a ROW. Section 2.2.1 identifies whether an amendment would be needed for each Proposed Route and Route Alternative and what sections of Chapter 3 would be affected if a plan amendment were required. Chapter 3 resource sections discuss plan amendment consequences. 

EINePlAm
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-7 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

3 

Project planning shall be based on the current state of knowledge. Where corridors are subject to sequential projects, projectrelated planning (such as the development of spill-response plans, cultural resource management plans, and visual resource management plans) and project-specific mitigation and monitoring should incorporate information and lessons learned from previous projects. 

Where the Proposed or Alternative Routes are located within a 

WWE Corridor there are no prior projects in the last 10 years. 

EIEf

4 

Applicants shall follow the best management practices for energy transport project siting, construction, and operations of the states in which the proposed project would be located, as well as federal agency practices. 

Appendix C-1 specifies Environmental Protection Measures 

(EPM) that the Proponents have incorporated as their best 

management practices and as part of the Project description. These measures have been developed by the Proponents to maintain environmental quality and meet requirements of various land management plans. These measures apply project-wide unless modified through negotiations with individual landowners or superseded by permits granted by federal, state, or local agencies. These EPMs apply to construction, operation, and maintenance as appropriate. 

ApPr

Table 1.4-1 lists the major federal, state, and local permits, approvals, and consultations identified for the construction and operation of Gateway West. 

EINeRe

5 

Corridors are to be efficiently used. The applicant, assisted by the appropriate agency, shall consolidate the proposed infrastructure, such as access roads, wherever possible and utilize existing roads to the maximum extent feasible, minimizing the number, lengths, and widths of roads, construction support areas, and borrow areas. 

Wherever possible, new access roads will be constructed within the proposed transmission line ROW, or existing roads will be used. 

PODeAcanDeAc
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-8 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

6 

When concurrent development projects are proposed and implemented within a corridor, the agency POCs shall coordinate the projects to ensure consistency with regard to all regulatory compliance and consultation requirements, and to avoid duplication of effort. 

Where the Proposed or Alternative Routes are located within a 

WWE Corridor, no concurrent development is proposed. EI

7 

Applicants, assisted by the appropriate agency, shall prepare a monitoring plan for all project-specific mitigation activities. 

The preliminary Reclamation Plan describes the framework for development of the final Reclamation, Revegetation, and Weed Management Plan. The plan provides a structure for post construction monitoring. 

EIReAc

This attachment presents the procedures to be undertaken to inventory, evaluate, and protect cultural and paleontological resources. 

EIPrAtanan

Environmental monitoring is also proposed where construction may be permitted but its conformance with minimization measures should be monitored and enforced.... The details of the Proponents environmental compliance program including... monitoring and reporting will be detailed in the construction POD. 

EIPrCoAc

8 

Potential cumulative impacts to resources should be considered during the early stages of the project. Agency POCs must coordinate various development projects to consider and minimize cumulative impacts. A review of resource impacts resulting from other projects in the region should be conducted and any pertinent information be considered during project planning. 

Chapter 4 presents a discussion of the potential cumulative effects associated with Gateway West. 

EIEf
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-9 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

Project Design 

1 

Applicants shall locate desired projects within energy corridors to promote effective use of the corridors by subsequent applicants and to avoid the elimination of use or encumbrance of use of the corridors by ROW holders. Proposed projects should be compatible with identified energy transport modes and avoid conflicts with other land uses within a corridor. 

In selecting a route for the proposed Project, the Proponents identified existing transmission lines, easements, or ROWs and other utility corridors including the WWE Corridor and considered them as opportunities for routing. However, the Proponents also must meet the WECC minimum separation distance between transmission lines to prevent loss of multiple circuits from a single event such as a wildland fire. All segments must obtain new ROWs through a combination of ROW Grants and easements between the Proponents and various federal, state, and local governments; other companies (e.g., utilities and railroads); and private landowners. 

PODeSeLaCoof-

In order to achieve the capacity needed to serve present and future loads within the Proponents’ service area, the WECC requires a minimum separation from existing transmission lines that serve substantially the same load as that served by each of the new Gateway West transmission segments. The Gateway West transmission lines must be located at least 1,500 feet from the nearest existing 230-kV or higher voltage transmission lines. 

PODeanRiSeExCo

During final design of the transmission line segments, appropriate electrical studies will be conducted to identify the issues associated with paralleling other facilities, and the types of equipment that will need to be installed (if any) to mitigate the effects of the induced currents. 

PODeIndFa
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-10 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

2 

Applicant shall identify and delineate existing underground metallic pipelines in the vicinity of a proposed electricity transmission line project and design the project to avoid accelerating the corrosion of the pipelines and/or pumping wells. 

GIS data for large capacity pipelines were obtained from Penwell and considered during routing. GIS data for oil and gas well heads were obtained from the State of Wyoming and NAIP aerial photography, and a 250-foot no occupancy buffer was applied during routing. 

SitSitLin

During final design of the transmission line segments, appropriate electrical studies will be conducted to identify the issues associated with paralleling other facilities, and the types of equipment that will need to be installed (if any) to mitigate the effects of the induced currents. 

PODeIndFa

Transportation 

1 

The applicant shall prepare an access road siting and management plan that incorporates relevant agency standards regarding road design, construction, maintenance, and decommissioning. Corridors will be closed to public access unless determined by the appropriate federal land manager to be managed as part of an existing travel and transportation network in a land use plan or subsequent travel management plan(s). 

Attachment A, Traffic and Transportation Management, includes measures that require compliance with federal policies and standards relative to planning, siting, improvement, maintenance, and operation of roads for the Project. The Proponents shall prepare a Traffic and Transportation Management Plan to be included in the Construction POD, once the locations of access roads and crossings are known, that demonstrates how the measures 

specified herein will be implemented in the field. 

EIPrAtTr

2 

The applicant shall prepare a comprehensive transportation plan for the transport of transmission tower or pipeline components, main assembly cranes, and other large equipment. The plan should address specific sizes, weights, origin, destination, and unique equipment handling requirements. The plan should evaluate alternative transportation routes and should comply with state regulations and all 

The Proponents shall prepare a Traffic and Transportation Management Plan to be included in the Construction POD, once the locations of access roads and crossings are known, that demonstrates how the measures specified herein will be implemented in the field. 

EIPrAtTr

The transportation plan shall evaluate the components required. Hauling routes will be determined and all issues resolved (access, traffic control, damage mitigation, bridge evaluation, etc.), therefore, no evaluation of alternative routes 

will be conducted in the transportation plan. 

ShCo
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-11 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

necessary permitting requirements. The plan should address site access roads and eliminate hazards from truck traffic or adverse impacts to normal traffic flow. The plan should include measures such as informational signage and traffic controls that may be necessary during construction or maintenance of facilities. 

Equipment required for construction of the Gateway West transmission lines and substations will include, but are not limited to, those listed in Tables 3.8-2 and 3.8-3. These tables also include the anticipated daily duration of equipment use for each segment for each type. Table 3.8-4 provides an estimate of the average and peak construction traffic during the construction period. 

PODeWEq

3 

Applicants shall consult with local planning authorities regarding increased traffic during the construction phase, including an assessment of the number of vehicles per day, their size, and type. Specific issues of concern (e.g., location of school bus routes and stops) should be identified and addressed in the traffic management plan. 

This Attachment presents protection measures to be used to minimize impacts on roads, traffic, and other users of roads, and to reduce dust. The Proponents will prepare a Traffic and Transportation Management Plan, once the locations of access roads and crossings are known, that demonstrates how the measures specified herein will be implemented in the field. 

EIPrAtTr

Groundwater 

1 

Applicants must identify and delineate all sole source aquifers in the vicinity of a proposed project and design the project to avoid disturbing these aquifers or to minimize potential risks that the aquifers could be contaminated by spills or leaks of chemicals used in the projects. 

Southern and southwest Idaho is underlain by the Snake River Plain aquifer (Segments 5 through 10). The Eastern Snake River Plain Aquifer is a sole source aquifer. The required SPCC plan will address minimizing spills and contamination. 

EIRe(Ean(Sandeprco

2 

In instances where a project within an energy corridor crosses sole source aquifers, the applicant must notify the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the agencies that administer the land as early as practicable in the planning process. Section 1424(e) of the Safe Drinking Water Act (42 USC Chapter 6A) and other relevant laws and policies pertinent to the corridors that cross sole source aquifers shall apply. 

Southern and southwest Idaho is underlain by the Snake River Plain aquifer (Segments 5 through 10). The Eastern Snake River Plain Aquifer is a sole source aquifer. 

EIRethe co

Surface Water 
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-12 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

1 

Applicants must identify all wild and scenic rivers (designated by act of Congress or by the Secretary of the Interior under Section 3(a) or 2(a)(ii) of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act (16 USC 1271-1287), respectively), congressionally authorized wild and scenic study rivers, and agency identified (eligible or suitable) wild and scenic study rivers in the vicinity of a proposed project and design the project to avoid the rivers or mitigate the disturbance of the rivers and their vicinity. 

The Project was reviewed for Wild and Scenic Rivers (WSRs). While there are no WSR within WWE corridors proposed for use by the Project or its Route Alternatives, BLM has determined that Salmon Falls Creek is an eligible WSR and has stated that the route proposed to cross the WSR cannot be permitted. Alternative routes have been developed. 

EI

2 

In instances where a project within an energy corridor crosses a wild and scenic river or a wild and scenic study river, the appropriate federal permitting agency, assisted by the project applicant, must coordinate and consult with the river-administrating agency regarding the protection and enhancement of their free-flowing condition, water quality, and outstandingly remarkable natural, cultural, and recreational values. 

The Project does not employ an Energy Corridor that crosses 

any WSRs or agency-identified eligible WSRs. No

3 

Applicants shall identify all streams in the vicinity of proposed project sites that are listed as impaired under Section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act (33 USC Chapter 26) and provide a management plan to avoid or mitigate adverse impacts on those streams. 

Lists of 303(d) impaired waterbodies were obtained from the IDEQ, NDEP and WDEQ websites. Appendix D presents the list of sediment or temperature impaired waterbodies within the Idaho portion of the Analysis Area. There were no temperature or sediment-impaired waterbodies in the Wyoming portion of the Project, and one temperature-impacted stream in Nevada. 

EI3.1EnWEnSu
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-13 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

The 303(d) listed streams that are crossed by the Gateway West project and are within a WWE Corridor include the following sediment impaired streams: Ryegrass Creek - Seg 8 Proposed; Alkali Creek - Seg 8 Alt 8A; Sailor Creek - Seg 9 Proposed; Browns Creek - Seg 9 Proposed. Plans to avoid or mitigate adverse impacts on these streams are included in the proposed EPMs for vegetation, wetlands, fish, soils, stormwater pollution prevention, and spill prevention, containment, and countermeasures. 

EICo(WW(SSpApPrAtPr(EanPrCo(RMaRe

Paleontological Resources 

1 

The applicant shall conduct an initial scoping assessment to determine whether construction activities would disturb formations that may contain important paleontological resources. Potential impacts to significant paleontological resources should be avoided by moving or rerouting the site of construction or removing or reducing the need for surface disturbance. When avoidance is not possible, a mitigation plan should be prepared to identify physical and administrative protective measures and protocols such as halting work, to be implemented in the event of fossil discoveries. The scoping assessment and mitigation plan should be conducted in accordance with the managing agency’s fossil management practices and policies. 

To reduce the impacts on paleontological resources during construction, the following mitigation is required on federal lands; and state, Indian Reservation, or private lands where 

requested by the land management agency or landowner: PALEO-1 The Proponents will prepare a Paleontological Monitoring Plan for the Project, focusing on Segment 4 where the potential for adverse impacts is the greatest. This plan will be submitted for review and approval prior to commencing construction. Appendix C, Attachment D presents the procedures to be undertaken to inventory, evaluate, and protect cultural and paleontological resources. 

EIEnCoReApPrAtanan
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-14 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

2 

If significant paleontological resources are known to be present in the project area, or if areas with a high potential to contain paleontological material have been identified, the applicant shall prepare a paleontological resources management and mitigation plan. If adverse impacts to paleontological resources cannot be avoided or mitigated within the designated corridors, the agency may consider alternative development routes to avoid, minimize, or mitigate adverse effects. 

To reduce the impacts on paleontological resources during construction, the following mitigation is required on federal lands; and state, Indian Reservation, or private lands where 

requested by the land management agency or land owner: PALEO-1 The Proponents will prepare a Paleontological Monitoring Plan for the Project, focusing on Segments 4, 7, 8 and 9 where the potential for adverse impacts is the greatest. This plan will be submitted to appropriate agencies for review and approval prior to commencing construction. Appendix C, Attachment E presents the procedures to be undertaken to inventory, evaluate, and protect cultural and paleontological resources. 

EIEnCoReApPrAtanan

The overall approach to the transmission line siting included identifying routing opportunities and constraints in the Project study area and using this information to identify, evaluate, and compare alternative corridors for each of the 11 segments and select a proposed corridor and, in some cases, recommended alternative corridors for each segment. The full list of data sources is presented in Table 2-1, which includes paleontological formation outcroppings. 

SitSitLinSitLin

3 

A protocol for unexpected paleontological discoveries should be developed. Unexpected discovery during construction should be brought to the immediate attention of the responsible federal agency’s authorized officer. Work should be halted in the vicinity of the discovery to avoid further disturbance of the resource while the resource is being evaluated and appropriate mitigation measures are being developed. 

An Unanticipated Discovery Plan will be included as part of the Cultural Resources and Paleontological Monitoring and Mitigation Plan. 

EIPrAtanan

 Ecological Resources 

1 

Applicants shall identify important, sensitive, or unique habitats and BLM-special status species (BLM 2008), FS-sensitive, and state-listed species in the vicinity of proposed projects and design the project to avoid or mitigate impacts to these habitats and species. 

Federally listed, proposed, and candidate plants and other special status species including BLM and Forest Service species are discussed in Section 3.7.1.5. The Proponents have proposed a series of EPMs (Appendix C). Section 3.6.2.2 contains applicable references to plans and EPMs related to general vegetation, all of which would be applicable to reduce impacts to threatened and endangered species. In 

EIEnCoPl(AEnSp
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-15 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

addition, the Proponents propose to conduct pre-construction 

surveys in suitable habitat the year prior to construction and to redesign the proposed disturbance as needed to avoid direct impacts to blowout penstemon, Colorado butterfly plant, 

slickspot peppergrass, and Ute ladies’-tresses (Idaho Power and Rocky Mountain Power 2008a, b). Proponents will conduct preconstruction surveys by qualified botanists during 

a season when target species are readily identifiable for special status or globally rare species. Where feasible, 

micrositing of Project facilities will avoid direct impacts to 

identified populations. 

LisSpEfAcSeEnCoPlSpEfAc

Plant and Wildlife Conservation Plan – Construction Activities presents EPMs, and the body of the EIS presents additional mitigation measures, that address threatened and endangered species listed under the ESA, those listed by the Forest Service as sensitive and the BLM as special status, and special status species identified by state game and fish agencies. Sage-grouse plan addressing management and avoidance. BLM has prepared a framework for habitat impact analysis and mitigation calculations in addition to that proposed by the Proponents, included in the EIS as Appendix J. 

EIWCoSeEnCoW3.EnSpSpC-AvMi
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-16 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

2 

To restore disturbed habitats, the applicant will prepare a habitat restoration plan that identifies the approach and methods to be used to restore habitats disturbed during project construction activities. The plan will be designed to expedite the recovery to natural habitats supporting native vegetation, and require restoration to be completed as soon as practicable after completion of construction, minimizing the habitat converted at any one time. To ensure rapid and successful restoration efforts, the plan will include restoration success criteria, including time frames, which will be developed in coordination with the appropriate agency and which must be met by the applicant. Bonding to cover the full cost of restoration will be required. 

This preliminary Reclamation Plan describes the framework for development of the final Reclamation, Revegetation, and Weed Management Plan... which provides a framework for the reclamation process, provides a structure for post construction monitoring and a clear sequence for remedial actions if needed and details the reporting standards to be followed. Seeding will be done as soon after ground disturbing activities are complete and at the appropriate time of year. 

EIReAc

3 

In consultation with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the appropriate agency, assisted by the project applicant, will identify wetlands (including ephemeral, intermittent, and isolated wetlands), riparian habitats, streams, and other aquatic habitats in the project area and design the project to avoid or mitigate impacts to these habitats. 

In general, wetlands and riparian areas would be avoided during selection of construction sites... Impacts would be avoided and minimized during final design, by rerouting Project components outside of wetlands to the extent practical... As part of the 404 permitting process, the USACE would evaluate whether wetlands have been avoided to the extent practical and whether the effects have been adequately mitigated. The permitting process would also identify additional requirements as necessary to comply with USACE regulations. These would include the necessity for compensatory mitigation for any permanent loss of wetland or wetland function. In order to minimize impacts to wetlands the Proponents have proposed a Reclamation Revegetation and 

Weed Management Plan, a SWPPP, and a SPCC Plan (see Appendix C). 

EIEnCoAfSeEnCoanCoCo(EMeApReCo
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-17 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

The following mitigation measures are required on federally managed lands, and state, Indian reservation, and private lands where the land management agency or owner requests them: WET-1 Impacts on wetland and riparian areas shall be avoided unless physically or economically infeasible. WET-3 Where impacts on wetlands are not avoidable, site-specific crossing plans and measures to mitigate impacts shall be submitted to the managing agency or owner for approval prior to initiation of the activity causing the effect. 

EIEnCoMi

Vegetation Management 

1 

Applicants shall develop an integrated vegetation management plan consistent with applicable regulations and agency policies for the control of unwanted vegetation, noxious weeds, and invasive species (E.O. 13112). The plan should address monitoring; ROW vegetation management; the use of certified weed-seed-free hay, straw, and/or mulch; the cleaning of vehicles to avoid the introduction of invasive weeds; education of personnel on weed identification; the manner in which weeds spread; and the methods for treating infestations (BLM 2006, 2007a,b, 2008). 

The goals of this Plan are to: describe the pre-construction planning, provide a framework for the reclamation process, provide a structure for post construction monitoring and a clear sequence for remedial actions if needed and detail the reporting standards to be followed. Successful re-vegetation will be determined by monitoring and comparing plots on federally-managed lands. REC-13 Project vehicles will be cleaned prior to entering the project... REC-2 Company personnel and their contractors will be trained on noxious and invasive weed identification, prevention, control methods and impacts of such weeds on agriculture and wildlife... Mapped noxious and invasive weed species locations may be treated prior to transmission line construction... REC-2 through REC8. The Proponents will implement BMPs to address the introduction and spread of noxious weeds and invasive species... REC-9 through REC-13. RRW-11 Certified weedfree straw will be used for sediment or erosion control or when 

used as mulch. Hay will not be used on BLM-administered 

land. 

EIReAc(AEnVeanCoCoReMa

Cultural Resources 

1 

Cultural resources management services and individuals providing those services shall meet the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Archaeology and Historic Preservation, 48 FR 44716 (Sept. 29, 1983). 

Cultural resource consultants used on the project were approved by the BLM. 

FiepequAd
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-18 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

2 

The project applicant may, with the approval of the agency POC, assign a Cultural Resource Coordinator to ensure an integrated compliance process across administrated and jurisdictional boundaries. The Cultural Resource Coordinator will facilitate and coordinate compliance with multiple laws, policies, regulations, and existing pertinent agreements (PAs, MOAs, or MOUs) among multiple agencies and other entities, jurisdictions, and federally recognized Tribes. The coordinator may assist with development of pertinent agreements among concerned parties during the course of the project. The coordinator shall be a qualified professional with experience in cultural resource compliance. Where appropriate, the Cultural Resource Coordinator may also serve as the Tribal Coordinator. Alternatively, the agency POC may assign such coordinators, to be paid for through project cost-recovery funds. The agencies, through the POC, remain responsible for consultation. 

Bonnie Bruce has been assigned by the BLM to be the Cultural Resource Coordinator. She is the principal contact for the cultural resources program and currently the lead archeologist in the Rawlins Field Office. 

Ad

3 

The project applicant may, with the approval of the agency POC, assign a Tribal Coordinator to facilitate and coordinate consultation and compliance with multiple laws, agencies, and Tribes in order to ensure effective government-to-government consultation throughout the life of the project. Alternatively, the agency POC may assign such coordinators, to be paid for through project cost-recovery funds. The agencies, through the POC, remain responsible for consultation. 

Bonnie Bruce has been assigned by the BLM to be the Tribal Coordinator. She is the principal contact for the cultural resources program and currently the lead archeologist in the Rawlins Field Office. 

Ad
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-19 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

4 

All historic properties in the Area of Potential Effect (APE) will be identified and evaluated. The APE shall include that area within which an undertaking may directly or indirectly cause alterations in the character or use of historic properties and shall include a reasonable construction buffer zone and laydown areas, access roads, and borrow areas, as well as a reasonable assessment of areas subject to effects from visual, auditory, or atmospheric impacts, or impacts from increased access. 

The APE has been defined in the PA, which will be completed prior to the publication of the Final EIS. For the purpose of the EIS, the Analysis Area is defined as the geographic area in which impacts are likely to occur. 

EIEnCoReVo

5 

Project proponents must develop a cultural resources management plan (CRMP) to outline the process for compliance with applicable cultural resource laws during preproject planning, management of resources during operation, and consideration of the effect of decommissioning. CRMPs should meet the specifications of the appropriate agency and address compliance with all appropriate laws. CRMPs should include the following, as appropriate: identification of the federally recognized Tribes, SHPOs, and consulting parties for the project; identification of long- and short-term management goals for cultural resources within the APE of the project; the definition of the APE; appropriate procedures for inventory, evaluation, and identification of effects to historic properties; evaluation of eligibility for the NRHP for all resources in the APE; description of the measures to avoid, minimize, or mitigate adverse effects to historic properties; procedures for inadvertent discovery; procedures for considering NAGPRA issues, monitoring needs, and plans to be employed during construction; curation procedures; anticipated personnel requirements and qualifications; public outreach and interpretation plans; and 

The requirements set forth in this IOP are addressed in the EIS Cultural Resources section, the EIS Consultation and Collaboration section, and the EIS Appendix C (Environmental Protection Plans and Measures) Attachment E (Cultural Resource and Paleontological Monitoring and Mitigation). Federal and state agencies have reviewed and commented on the analysis and interpretation, and will continue to do so as the project progresses to ensure the analysis and the project meet their requirements. 

EIEnCoRe(Ean(CPaMi(C
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-20 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

discussion of other concerns. The draft CRMP should be reviewed and approved by the agency POC in consultation with historic preservation partners, including appropriate SHPOs, Tribes, and consulting parties. CRMPs must specify procedures that would be followed for compliance with cultural resource laws, should the project change during the course of implementation. 

6 

Project applicants will provide cultural resources training for project personnel regarding the laws protecting cultural resources, appropriate conduct in the field (such as procedures for the inadvertent discovery of human remains), and other project-specific issues identified in the CRMP. Training plans should be part of the CRMP and should be subject to the approval of the POC. When government-togovernment consultation identifies the need and the possibility, Tribes may be invited to participate in or contribute to relevant sessions. 

CUL-7 To minimize unauthorized collecting of archaeological material or vandalism to known archaeological sites, all workers will attend mandatory training on the significance of cultural resources and the relevant federal regulations 

intended to protect them. 

EIPrAtanan

7 

If adverse effects to historic properties will result from a project, a Historic Property Treatment Plan will be developed in consultation with the SHPO, the appropriate federally recognized Tribes, and any consulting parties. The plan will outline how the impacts to the historic properties would be mitigated, minimized, or avoided. Agency officials will give full consideration to the applicable mitigation measures found in Section 3.10.5.2 of the final PEIS when consulting during the project pre-planning stages to resolve adverse effects on historic properties. 

In addition to preparing a Cultural Resource and Paleontological Monitoring and Mitigation Plan, the Proponents will prepare and submit a Treatment Plan for any historic property eligible for or listed on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) that will be impacted by the Project. The plan will specify how each property will be treated, including mitigation measures. The Plan will include an Unanticipated Discovery Plan that details the steps to be 

taken during construction in response to a new find of an 

historic property potentially eligible for listing on the NRHP during construction. 

EIPrAtanan
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-21 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

8 

As directed by the agency POC, project proponents will prepare a public education and outreach component regarding projectrelated cultural resource issues (e.g. discoveries, impacts) such as a public presentation, a news article, a publication, or a display. Public education and outreach components will be subject to Agency approval and Tribal review and consultation when the content or format is of interest to affected Tribes. 

CR-3 Compensatory Mitigation Measures as required: Fund or provide interpretive, educational exhibits placed in museums or nearby interpretive centers; Develop an illustrated guide to the regional archaeology and history, which would present the results of the Project’s archaeology/history in layperson’s terms for the general public; Provide new markers for the BLM and other public groups to position along historic trails; Fund or provide outdoor, interpretive wayside exhibits along access points to trails, highways, and other linear resources; Fund or provide educational films or curriculum for area school districts about the history and significance of the linear resources. CR-4 Conservation Easements – Where feasible and appropriate, conservation easements will be considered to 

preserve important archaeological and historic sites, and high integrity linear resource segments, or to preserve viewsheds. 

EIEnCoRe

9 

Cultural resources inventory, evaluation, and mitigation practices should incorporate modeling and sampling strategies to the extent practicable, in concurrence with SHPOs and other relevant parties, and as approved by the agency POC. 

Federal and State agencies have reviewed and commented on the analysis and interpretation, and will continue to do so as the project progresses to ensure the analysis and the project meet their requirements. 

EIEnCoRe

10 

Project applicants shall provide all cultural resources reports and data in an electronic format that is approved by the Agency POC and integrated across jurisdictional boundaries, that meets current standards, and that is compatible with SHPO systems. The Agency will submit this data to the SHPO in a timely fashion. Project proponents should submit cultural resources data on a regular basis to ensure that SHPO systems are kept up to date for reference as the different phases of the project proceed. Paper records may also be required by the agency. 

All completed reports have been submitted to the relevant state’s SHPO, and this process will continue. A
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-22 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

11 

Cultural resources inventory procedures, specified in the CRMP, will include development of historic contexts based on the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards and Guidelines for Archeology and Historic Preservation (48 FR 44716) sufficient to support the evaluation of cultural resources encountered in the APE. 

To identify historic properties and TCPs within the affected environment, the project proponents conducted a literature review, data sources for the literature review included cultural and historical contexts. Federal agencies have reviewed and commented on the analysis and interpretation, and will continue to do so as the project progresses to ensure the analysis and the project meet their requirements. 

EIEnCoReMe

Traditional Cultural Properties 

1 

The appropriate agency, assisted by the applicant, must comply with all laws, policies, and regulations pertaining to government-togovernment consultation with federally recognized Tribes. Agencies shall initiate consultation with affected Tribes at the outset of project planning and shall continue consultation throughout project planning, construction, operation, and decommissioning. Consultation shall include, but not be limited to, the following: (a) identification of potentially affected Tribes; (b) identification of appropriate Tribal contacts and the preferred means of communication with these Tribes; (c) provision to the Tribes of project-specific information (e.g., project proponents, maps, design features, proposed ROW routes, construction methods, etc.) at the outset of project planning and throughout the life of the project; (d) identification of issues of concern specific to affected Tribes (e.g., potential impacts to culturally sensitive areas or resources, hazard and safety management plans, treaty reserved rights and trust responsibilities); (e) identification of areas and resources of concern to Tribes; and (f) resolution of concerns (e.g., actions to avoid, minimize, or mitigate impacts to important resources; Memoranda of Agreement stating what actions would be taken to mitigate project effects; or agreements for Tribal participation in monitoring efforts or operator training programs). 

In compliance with Section 106 of the NHPA (as amended) and the revised ACHP 3 regulations (36 CFR 800), the BLM initiated government-to-government consultation with Native American tribes in the Project area... Table 5.2-2 lists the Native American tribes that have been contacted and summarizes the concerns they have raised to date and the status of consultation. The final determination of effects and resolution of adverse effects, through the Section 106 consultation process, will not be complete until surveys of all lands crossed by the project have been completed. The PA will specify how treatment plans will be completed to set forth the measures to minimize or mitigate the project's adverse effects to any historic property that the BLM may determine is adversely affected and where it is not feasible and prudent to avoid effects to that historic property by project relocation. 

EICoSeEnCoReFrAn(AEnCuMe
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-23 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

2 

The appropriate agency, assisted by the applicant, must comply with all pertinent laws, policies, and regulations addressing cultural and other resources important to Tribes, including the NHPA, the Archaeological Resources Protection Act (ARPA), the Native American Graves Protection Act (NAGPRA), and other laws and regulations as listed in Table 3.11-2 of the PEIS. 

The BLM is continuing government-to-government consultation (see Section 3.3 and Chapter 5). 

EIEnCoRe

3 

The agencies shall recognize the significance to many Tribes of traditional cultural places, such as sacred sites, sacred landscapes, gathering grounds, and burial areas, and shall seek to identify such areas through consultation with affected Tribes early in the project planning process. Agencies shall seek to avoid, minimize, or mitigate impacts to such places in consultation with the Tribes, project proponents, and other relevant parties. Where confidentiality concerning these areas is important to an affected Tribe, agencies shall honor such confidentiality unless the Tribe agrees to release the information. 

In compliance with Section 106 of the NHPA (as amended) and the revised ACHP 3 regulations (36 CFR 800), the BLM initiated government-to-government consultation with seven Native American tribes in the Project area... Table 5.2-2 lists the Native American tribes that have been contacted and summarizes the concerns they have raised to date and the status of consultation. The final determination of effects and resolution of adverse effects, through the Section 106 consultation process, will not be complete until surveys of all lands crossed by the project have been completed. Only then can the BLM and other federal agencies complete their obligations under Section 106 and the PA. 

EICoSeEnCoRethe 
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-24 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

4 

A protocol must be developed for inadvertent discovery of Native American human remains and funerary items to comply with the NAGPRA in consultation with appropriate federally recognized Tribes. Unexpected discovery of such items during construction must be brought to the immediate attention of the responsible federal agency’s authorized officer. Work must be halted in the vicinity of the find of Native American graves and funerary items to avoid further disturbance to the resources while they are being evaluated and appropriate mitigation measures are being developed. The procedures for reporting items covered under NAGPRA must be identified in the CRMP. 

CUL-2 An Unanticipated Discovery Plan will be included as part of the Cultural Resources and Paleontological Monitoring and Mitigation Plan. This plan will specify what steps will be 

taken if a subsurface cultural resource or fossil is discovered during construction, including stopping construction in the vicinity of the find, notification of the appropriate land management agency, identification of a qualified archaeologist 

or paleontologist to conduct an evaluation of the find, and the 

development of an approved data recovery program or other mitigation measures. CUL-8 If remains are discovered, construction will be halted and the coroner will be notified. If human remains of Native American origin are discovered, or if associated grave goods, or objects of cultural patrimony are discovered on lands managed by a federal agency, the provisions of the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act will be 

followed. More details on specific procedures to be followed 

are provided in the Cultural Resources section of the EIS.

EIPrAtanan3.3EnCuMe

Visual Resources 

1 

Applicants shall identify and consider visual resource management (VRM) and scenery management (SMS) issues early in the design process to facilitate integration of VRM and scenery treatments into the overall site development program and construction documents. Visual/scenery management considerations, environmental analyses, mitigation planning, and design shall reference and be in accordance with the land management agency visual/scenery management policies and procedures applicable to the jurisdiction the project lies within. Applicants shall coordinate between multiple agencies on visual/scenery sensitive issues when projects transition from one jurisdiction to another, especially when transitions occur within a shared viewshed. 

The visual analysis has been conducted using applicable 

agency procedures, as described in this IOP. Federal 

agencies have reviewed and commented on the analysis and interpretation, and will continue to do so as the project progresses to ensure the analysis and the project meet their requirements. Federal guidance comes from 1) the BLM’s RMPs and MFPs for each BLM District or FO throughout the Project area; 2) the Forest Service’s Caribou, Medicine Bow, and Sawtooth Forest Plans (Forest Service 2003a, 2003b, and 2003c); 3) the BLM’s Oregon and Mormon Pioneers National Historic Trail Management Plan (BLM 1986a) and Oregon/California National Scenic Trail Goals; and 4) the visual resource values of the 1995 City of Rocks Comprehensive Management Plan (CMP; NPS 1995). For information regarding amendments to any of the land use planning documents listed above, please refer to Appendix F. State guidance is found in the Oregon NHT/Bear Lake Scenic Byway, Pioneer Historic Byway, and Snake River Canyon Scenic Byway Goals and Policies. Local guidance is found in plans and policy documents for Sweetwater and Lincoln County, Wyoming, as well as Cassia County, Idaho.

EIEnCoAfFr
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-25 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

2 

Applicants shall prepare a VRM or scenery management plan. The applicant’s planning team shall include an appropriately trained specialist, such as a landscape architect with demonstrated VRM and/or SMS experience. The VRM/SMS specialist shall 

coordinate with the BLM/FS on the availability of the appropriate visual or scenic inventory data, VRM management class delineations, Scenic Integrity Objectives (SIOs), and federal agency expectations for preparing project plans and mitigation strategies to comply with RMP or LRMP direction related to scenery and/or visual resources. Applicants shall confirm that a current Visual Resource Inventory and/or Scenic Class inventory is available and that the resource management plan (RMP) or land resource and management plan (LRMP) VRM classifications or SIOs have been designated in the current land management plan. Project plans shall abide by the VRM class designations and SIOs and consider sensitivities defined within the visual or scenic resource Inventory. If visual or scenic management objectives are absent, then the proper inventory and classification process shall be followed to develop them in accordance with the BLM VRM manual and handbooks or FS SMS process, depending on the agency. When the VRM management classes or SIOs are absent, then the project alternatives must reflect a range of management options related to scenery and visual resources that reflect the values identified in the visual/scenic inventory. Responsibility for developing an inventory or VRM management classes (or in the case of 

The main components of the visual resource inventory included identifying the existing landscape conditions, potential sensitive viewers, and the representative KOPs based on potential viewers; evaluating visual contrast ratings 

for each KOP; applying BLM’s VRM classes and objectives; and assessing visual contrast for areas not managed by BLM. The non-BLM/non-Forest Service portions of the proposed Project and alternatives were analyzed using Visual Sensitivity/Visual Quality Ratings, and Project Visibility to 

determine impacts. The analysis on BLM-administered lands and National Forests used the BLM’s VRM system and Forest Service’s SMS, respectively. The methods used for the visual resources analysis were based on the BLM (1986a) Visual Resource Contrast Rating System Manual (BLM Manual, Section 8431) and the Forest Service SMS (Forest Service 1995a). The degree of potential impact on viewers is based on the level of viewer sensitivity combined with Project visibility 

and contrast relative to the existing landscape. 

EIEnCoAf
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-26 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

the FS, Scenic Classes and SIOs) will remain with the respective agency, but how to accomplish these tasks will be determined by the Field Office Manager or Forest Supervisor, who will consider the applicant’s role and financial participation in completing the work. 

3 

Visual and scenic mitigation planning/design and analysis shall be performed through integrated field assessment, applied global positioning system (GPS) technology, field photo documentation, use of computer-aided design and development software, 3-D modeling GIS software, and visual simulation software, as appropriate. Proposed activities, projects, and site development plans shall be analyzed and further developed using these technologies to meet visual and scenic objectives for the project area and surrounding areas sufficient to provide the full context of the viewshed. Visual simulations shall be prepared according to BLM Handbook H-8432-1, or other agency requirements, to create spatially accurate depictions of the appearance of proposed facilities, as reflected in the 3-D design models. Simulations shall depict proposed project appearance from sensitive/scenic locations as well as more typical viewing locations. Transmission towers, roads, compressor stations, valves, and other aboveground infrastructure should be integrated esthetically with the surrounding landscape in order to minimize contrast with the natural environment. 

The visual and scenic mitigation planning/design and analysis approach used for the project meets the requirements set forth in this IOP. 

EIEnCoRe
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-27 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

4 

Applicants shall develop adequate terrain mapping on a landscape/viewshed scale for site planning/design, visual impact analysis, visual impact mitigation planning/design, and for full assessment and mitigation of cumulative visual impacts through applied, state-of-the-art design practices using the cited software systems. The landscape/viewshed scale mapping shall be geo-referenced and at the same Digital Elevation Model (DEM) resolution and contour interval within the margin of error suitable for engineered site design. This level of mapping shall enable proper placement of proposed developments into the digital viewshed context. Final plans shall be field verified for compliance. 

The visual and scenic planning/design and analysis approach used for the project meets the requirements set forth in this IOP. 

EIEnCo

5 

The full range of visual and scenic best management practices shall be considered, and plans shall incorporate all pertinent best management practices (BMPs). Visual and scenic resource monitoring and compliance strategies shall be included as a part of the project mitigation plans. 

The visual analysis has been conducted using applicable 

agency procedures, as described in this IOP. Federal 

agencies have reviewed and commented on the analysis and interpretation, and will continue to do so as the project progresses to ensure the analysis and the project meet their requirements. Proposed mitigation measures are identified in the body of the EIS. 

EIEnCoRe(AEnViMe

6 

Compliance with VRM/SMS objectives shall be determined through the use of the BLM Contrast Rating procedures defined in BLM Handbook H- 431-1 Visual Contrast Rating, or the FS SMS Handbook 701. Mitigation of visual impacts shall abide by the requirements of these handbooks. 

The methods used for the visual resources analysis were based on the BLM (1986a) Visual Resource Contrast Rating System Manual (BLM Manual, Section 8431) and the Forest Service SMS (Forest Service 1995a). 

EIEnCoAf
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-28 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

Public Health and Safety 

1 

An electricity transmission project shall be planned by the applicant to comply with FAA regulations, including lighting regulations, and to avoid potential safety issues associated with proximity to airports, military bases or training areas, or landing strips. 

Towers over 200 feet are required to be lit at night. No Gateway West structures would be that tall. Activities accompanied by helicopter flight operations would operate under the control of the FAA. The Proponents would file a notice of construction activities, (Federal Regulation Title 14 

Part 77) with the FAA. Construction of the Proposed Action or 

Action Alternatives would not affect airports or airstrips. Air traffic patterns would not be affected by the placement of new structures or conductors. The EIS and the Siting Study indicate that military operations areas were considered during project planning. 

EIEnCoAfFr(AEnTrEnFrAv(AEnTrEfAc

2 

A health and safety program shall be developed by the applicant to protect both workers and the general public during construction, operation, and decommissioning of an energy transport project. The program should identify all applicable federal and state occupational safety standards, establish safe work practices for each task (e.g., requirements for personal protective equipment and safety harnesses, Occupational Safety and Health Administration [OSHA] standard practices for safe use of explosives and blasting agents, measures for reducing occupational electromagnetic field [EMF] exposures), and define safety performance standards (e.g., electrical system standards). The program should include a training program to identify hazard training requirements for workers for each task and establish procedures for providing required training to all workers. Documentation of training and a mechanism for reporting serious accidents to appropriate agencies should be established. 

Information on each of these topics is found in various sections of the POD and EIS. A health and safety program is a standard operating procedure for all contractors and the Proponents. The final construction BLM POD and Forest Service COM Plan shall detail Proponent and contractor health and safety plans. 

PO(AEnPu(AEnEle3.1EnGe(AEnTrEnFrRe
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-29 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

3 

The health and safety program shall establish a safety zone or setback from roads and other public access areas that is sufficient to prevent accidents resulting from various hazards. It should identify requirements for temporary fencing around staging areas, storage yards, and excavations during construction or decommissioning activities. It should also identify measures to be taken during the operations phase to limit public access to those components of energy facilities that present health or safety risks. 

Information on each of these topics is found in various sections of the POD and EIS. A health and safety program is a standard operating procedure for all contractors and the Proponents. The final construction BLM POD and Forest Service COM Plan shall detail Proponent and contractor health and safety plans. 

PO(AEnPu(AEnEl3.EnGe(AEnTrEnFrRe

4 

Applicants will develop a comprehensive emergency plan that considers the vulnerabilities of their energy system to all credible events initiated by natural causes (earthquakes, avalanches, floods, high winds, violent storms, etc.), human error, mechanical failure, cyber attack, sabotage, or deliberate destructive acts of both domestic and international origin and the potential for and possible consequences of those events. Vulnerability, threat, and consequence assessment methodologies and criteria in the sector-specific plan (SSP) for energy will be used and appropriate preemptive and mitigative response actions will be identified. The applicant must coordinate emergency planning with state, local, and Tribal emergency and public safety authorities and with owners and operators of other energy systems collocated in the corridor or in adjacent corridors that could also be impacted. 

Section 3.22 addresses concerns commonly associated with transmission lines. The Proponents shall submit an emergency response plan that addresses vulnerabilities applicable to electric transmission lines. 

EIEnCo
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-30 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

5 

In addition to directives contained in other IOPs herein, the applicant must identify all federal, state, and local regulations pertaining to environmental protection, worker health and safety, public safety, and system reliability that are applicable throughout the construction, operation, and decommissioning phases of their facility’s life cycle and must develop appropriate compliance strategies, including securing all necessary permits and approvals. 

Table 1.4-1 lists the major federal, state, and local permits, approvals, and consultations identified for the construction and operation of Gateway West. The Public Safety section of the EIS presents the regulatory framework and the effects from construction, operation, and decommissioning as related to environmental contamination, wind and ice storm, fire 

hazards, and electrocution. The Noise section of the EIS presents additional regulatory framework and effects from the project as related to worker or public health and safety. The Air Quality and Water Resources sections of the EIS present additional regulatory framework and effects from the project as 

related to public health and safety. The EIS section describing the Proponents' Purpose and Need for the Project presents their requirements related to system reliability. Appendix C (Environmental Protection Plans and Measures) of the EIS 

includes the following plans related to health and safety: Attachment A (Traffic and Transportation Management), Attachment B (Stormwater Pollution Prevention), Attachment C (Spill Prevention, Containment, and Countermeasures), Attachment E (Blasting). Attachment C-4 contains the Plan for Operations, Maintenance and Emergency Response Activities. 

EINeRe(AEnPu(AEnNoEnCoSeEnCoRe(Ean

Hazardous Materials Management 

1 

Applicants for petroleum pipelines and projects involving oil-filled electrical devices shall develop a spill prevention and response plan identifying spill prevention measures to be implemented, training requirements, appropriate spill response actions, and procedures for making timely notifications to authorities. The spill prevention and response plan should include identification of any sensitive biotic resources and locations (such as habitats) that require special measures to provide protection, as well as the measures needed to provide that protection. 

Some types of electrical equipment, such as transformers and some types of reactors and circuit breakers, are filled with an 

insulating mineral oil. Attachment C, Spill Prevention, Containment, and Countermeasures, includes measures for 

spill prevention practices, requirements for refueling and operation of equipment near waterbodies, procedures for emergency response and incident reporting, and training requirements. 

PODeCoEIPrAtCoCo
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-31 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

Fire Management 

1 

Applicants shall develop a fire management strategy to implement measures to minimize the potential for a human-caused fire during project construction, operation, and decommissioning. The strategy should consider the need to reduce hazardous fuels (e.g., native and non-native annual grasses and shrubs) and to prevent the spread of fires started outside or inside a corridor, and clarify who has responsibility for fire suppression and hazardous fuels reduction for the corridor. 

Elements of the fire management strategy are addressed in the Plan for Operations, Maintenance, and Emergency Response Activities; the POD; EIS Section 3.22 Public Safety; EIS Section 3.6 Vegetation Communities; and EIS Section 3.17 Land Use. 

EIOpEmEIMaPr(EPr(OAbReApPrEIEnCoSeanCoCo(AEnLa
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-32 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

2 

Applicants must work with the local land management agency to identify project areas that may incur heavy fuel buildups, and develop a long-term strategy on vegetation management of these areas. The strategy may include land treatment during project construction, which may extend outside the planned ROW clearing limits. 

Elements of the fire management strategy are addressed in the Plan for Operations, Maintenance, and Emergency Response Activities; the POD; EIS Section 3.22 Public Safety; EIS Section 3.6 Vegetation Communities; and EIS Section 3.17 Land Use. 

EIOpEmEIMaPr(EPr(OAbReApPrEIEnCoSeanCoCo(AEnLa

 IOPs for Project Construction  General 

1 

To avoid conflict with federal and nonfederal operations, the applicant shall be aware of liabilities pertaining to environmental hazards, safety standards, and military flying areas. 

Military flying areas in the project area and been investigated and included that information in the land use section of the EIS. 

EIEnCo

2 

The applicant shall locate all stationary construction equipment (i.e., compressors and generators) as far as practicable from nearby residences. 

The EIS includes noise mitigation measures that would be followed during construction.

EIEnCo
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-33 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

3 

Applicants will pay fair market value to the land management agency for any merchantable forest products that will be cut during ROW clearing. The local land management agency will determine the fair market value, which will be paid prior to clearing. The applicant will either remove the forest products from the area or will stack the material at locations determined by the local land management agency. Treatment of unmerchantable products will be determined by the local land management agency. 

Construction through forests would require the removal of trees for access roads and cleared ROW. When these activities occur, the merchantable value of the timber is determined and the landowner or land management agency would be compensated for the timber taken. The EIS discloses that timber will be removed and treated per the land owner’s discretion, and would therefore meet the requirements in Federal land use plans regarding removal and disposal. 

EIEnCoanCoCoMa

Soils, Excavation and Blasting 

1 

Applicants shall salvage, safeguard, and reapply topsoil from all excavations and construction activities during restoration. 

SOIL-1 ...Unless the landowner or land management agency specifically approves otherwise, prevent the mixing of topsoil with subsoil by stripping topsoil from the portion of the construction work area that will be restored (construction pad, storage yards, and fly yards) in actively cultivated or rotated croplands and pastures and other areas at the landowner's or land managing agency’s request. Where topsoil segregation is required, maintain separation of salvaged topsoil and subsoil throughout all construction activities. Immediately after construction, restore the topsoil to the areas not dedicated to operational requirements and revegetate as specified in the EPMs. 

EIEnCoMe
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-34 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

To facilitate reclamation of temporarily disturbed areas, topsoil will be salvaged and protected... REC-14 The entire topsoil layer will be removed, taking care not to mix it with the underlying sub-soil, and will be stockpiled separately per the landowner’s or land manager’s preference. Where topsoil separation is employed, emphasis will be placed on avoiding soil compaction. REC-15 BMPs will be used as appropriate and as described in the SWPPP to stabilize the stockpile and limit erosion and standing water, control dust, control the establishment of noxious or invasive weeds in stockpiled soils. Topsoil and sub-surface soils will be replaced in the proper order during reclamation. The timing of topsoil replacement will be dependent upon project constraints, season, weather, and landowner/manager desire. REC-16 Where it is necessary to waste spoils (subsurface soils or waste rock resulting from excavations or foundation drilling), it will be done where practicable and in close proximity to where the disturbance occurred. Material will be wasted uniformly to match existing contours and covered with topsoil when available and re-seeded. 

EIReAc

2 

All areas of disturbed soil shall be restored by the applicant using weedfree native grasses, forbs, shrubs, and trees as directed by the agency. Restoration should not be unnecessarily delayed. If native species are not available, noninvasive vegetation recommended by agency specialists may be used. 

Seeding will be done as soon after ground disturbing activities are complete and at the appropriate time of year; preferably in the fall or in the spring if fall is not an option. If there is a lagtime between the end of ground disturbing activities and seeding, BMPs from the SWPPP will be implemented. The choice of seed mixtures will be dependent upon the existing vegetation types, as well as the availability of commercial, weed-free live seed at the time of seeding. Because there are a variety of vegetation communities across the length of the 

project, the Proponents are proposing to use several different seed mixes (Appendix B) on BLM and Forest Service managed lands. REC-25 On privately owned lands, the Proponents will use seed mixes identified in Appendix C-2 and as approved by the landowner. 

EIReAc
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-35 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

3 

The applicant must not create excessive slopes during excavation. Areas of steep slopes, biological soil crusts, erodible soil, and stream channel crossings will often require site-specific and specialized construction techniques by the applicant. These specialized construction techniques should be implemented by adequately trained and experienced employees. 

EPMs to minimize impacts on these resources would be included in the Framework Reclamation Plan for construction Activities, the SWPPP, and the SPCC Plan. 

EIReAc(SAtCoCo

4 

Blasting activities will be avoided or minimized in the vicinity of sole source aquifer areas to reduce the risk of releasing sediments or particles into the groundwater and inadvertently plugging water supply wells. 

Southern and southwest Idaho is underlain by the Snake River Plain aquifer (Segments 5 through 10). The Eastern Snake River Plain Aquifer is a sole source aquifer. Gateway West will likely need to blast over a sole source aquifer due to shallow bedrock. An analysis has been conducted of wells within 1⁄2 mile of the route that could be affected by blasting. 

EIEnCo

5 

The applicant must backfill foundations and trenches with originally excavated material as much as possible. Excess excavation materials should be disposed of by the applicant only in approved areas. 

REC-15... Topsoil and sub-surface soils will be replaced in the proper order during reclamation. REC-16 Where it is necessary to waste spoils (subsurface soils or waste rock resulting from excavations or foundation drilling), it will be done where practicable and in close proximity to where the disturbance occurred... 

EIReAc

6 

The applicant shall obtain borrow (fill) material only from authorized sites. Existing sites should be used in preference to new sites. 

If needed, the Applicants would obtain material from authorized sites. EI

7 

The applicant shall prepare an explosives use plan that specifies the times and meteorological conditions when explosives will be used and specifies minimum distances from sensitive vegetation and wildlife or streams and lakes. 

The construction contractor will be required to prepare an overall Blasting Plan for the Project, subject to the approval of the Proponents. The Blasting Plan will detail the contractor’s proposals for compliance with the Proponents’ blasting specifications and will detail the general concepts proposed to achieve the desired excavations using individual shot plans. 

SitDeTe

This attachment outlines the procedures and safety measures to be used if blasting activities are required during construction. The Proponents will prepare a site-specific Blasting Plan prior to construction that incorporates these measures and demonstrates how and where they will be applied in the field. 

EIPrAt
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-36 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

8 

If blasting or other noisy activities are required during the construction period, the applicant must notify nearby residents in advance. 

The following noise mitigation measures would be followed during construction where requested by the land management agency or local authorities. NOISE-1 Provide notice prior to construction by mail to all sensitive receptors and residences within 300 feet of construction sites, staging areas, and access roads. The announcement shall state specifically where and when construction will occur in the area. 

EIEnCo

Mitigation and Monitoring 

1 

All control and mitigation measures established for the project in the POD and other required plans must be maintained and implemented by the applicant throughout construction. Necessary adjustments may be made with the concurrence of the appropriate agency. 

Table 2.7-1 and Appendix C identify the Proponents’ Proposed EPMs that have been submitted as part of the POD and would be followed during Project-related construction activity. The Proponents have committed to implementing these measures... Therefore, the EPMs are considered part of the Project description. The impact analysis in this EIS assumes implementation of all EPMs. However, where other impacts are identified that are not addressed by these EPMs, or where the EPMs are not adequate to reduce impacts, the EIS recommends additional mitigation measures. The Proponents have agreed to incorporate EPMs into Environmental Management Plans that would be included in the construction POD developed for this proposed Project, 

and implementation of the EPMs would be monitored in the same fashion as the mitigation measures developed in this EIS. 

EICoAcEPMe(Ean
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-37 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

Surface and Groundwater Resources 

1 

The applicant must safeguard against the possibility of dewatering shallow groundwater and/or wetlands in the vicinity of project sites during foundation excavations or excavations for buried pipelines. 

As part of the 404 permitting process, the USACE would evaluate whether wetlands have been avoided to the extent 

practical and whether the effects have been adequately mitigated. The permitting process would also identify additional requirements as necessary to comply with USACE regulations. 

These would include the necessity for compensatory mitigation for any permanent loss of wetland or wetland function. In order to minimize impacts to wetlands the Proponents have proposed a Reclamation Revegetation and Weed Management Plan, a SWPPP, and a SPCC Plan (see Appendix C). Dewatering, the elimination of water from waterways so that 

excavation can occur, could result in a local and temporary drawdown of groundwater levels, temporarily reducing the yield of nearby water supply wells. In addition, blasting or drilling for tower foundations could reduce flows in wells and springs. Water supply wells are typically deeper than the proposed maximum excavation depth of 40 feet, so a temporary drawdown limited to that depth likely will not affect water yield. 

EIEnCoanCoCo(AEnWIndto Gr
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-38 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

2 

The applicant must implement erosion controls complying with county, state, and federal standards, such as jute netting, silt fences, and check dams, and secure all necessary storm water pollution prevention plan (SWPPP) permits. 

This attachment addresses measures to be undertaken to prevent stormwater pollution. To comply with criteria in Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA’s) Clean Water Act, all construction site operators engaged in clearing, grading, and excavating activities that disturb one acre or more, must obtain a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit for stormwater discharges (Code of Federal Regulations, Title 40, Parts 122 and 123). NPDES permits (also called Construction General Permits) are issued by EPA 

or similar authorized state entity following submittal of a Notice of Intent (NOI) for construction activities, and preparation of a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) that describes how erosion and sediment transport will be minimized to adjacent waterbodies. Two SWPPPs will be necessary for 

Gateway West. Wyoming has its own stormwater control program; therefore construction stormwater plans in Wyoming will be submitted to Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). Measures to assure that construction activities comply with state and EPA requirements for stormwater management to be incorporated into the SWPPP include:... 

EIPrAtPo

3 

The applicant shall minimize stream crossings by access roads to the extent practicable. All structures crossing intermittent and perennial streams should be located and constructed so that they do not decrease channel stability, increase water velocity, or impede fish passage. 

Wherever possible, new access roads will be constructed within the proposed transmission line ROW, or existing roads will be used. Erosion control and sedimentation measures such as water bars, culverts, sediment basins, or perimeter control will be installed as required to minimize erosion during and subsequent to construction of the Project. The Proponents have committed to the preparation of a SWPPP (Appendix C-1, Attachment B), which includes measures for temporary and permanent erosion and sediment control. A Traffic and Transportation Management Plan will be developed and implemented to provide site-specific details showing how the Project will comply with the EPMs listed in this attachment. 

PODeAcEIEnCoAfSuApPrAtTr
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-39 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

...many of the potential impacts would be reduced or eliminated by complying with the permitting requirements for each crossing site, which would regulate the methods used, BMPs required, and timing of construction in order to minimize effects when important fish life histology stages are present... If culverts do not meet guidelines for insuring fish passage, some impedance or total blockage to passage may occur... To ensure these impacts are minimized the Proponents have proposed the EPMs found in Table 2.7-1 and Appendix C. Furthermore, FISH-2 states that all instream construction actions will be conducted when critical fish life stages can be avoided as designated by the appropriate state and federal agencies. All culverts placed in fish habitat will be suitable, as determined by the federal or state agency, to pass all life stages present or potentially present within the stream reach. Riparian vegetation removal should be kept to the minimum along fish bearing streams. Blasting in or adjacent to fish bearing streams will require the state fish agency approval prior to blasting. 

EIEnCoanEfAcFis

4 

Applicants shall not alter existing drainage systems and should give particular care to sensitive areas such as erodible soils or steep slopes. Soil erosion should be reduced at culvert outlets by appropriate structures. Catch basins, roadway ditches, and culverts should be cleaned and maintained. 

Erosion control and sedimentation measures such as water bars, culverts, sediment basins, or perimeter control will be installed as required to minimize erosion during and subsequent to construction of the Project. The Proponents have committed to the preparation of a SWPPP (Appendix C1, Attachment B), which includes measures for temporary and permanent erosion and sediment control... TR-1 A Traffic and Transportation Management Plan will be developed and implemented to provide site-specific details showing how the 

Project will comply with the EPMs listed in this attachment. 

PODeAcEIEnCoDiCoSuApPrAtTr
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-40 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

5 Applicants must not create hydrologic conduits between aquifers. 

Groundwater basins potentially affected generally have groundwater deeper than 40 feet, which would be below the maximum depth of excavation. With shallow excavation and deeper groundwater, there is little likelihood that groundwater could be affected during construction. Shallow groundwater of less than 14 feet is present in Segments 4, 5, and 7. It is not expected that groundwater would be significantly affected by any phase of the Project. 

EIEnCoDiCoGr

Paleontological Resources 

1 

Project construction activities will follow the protective measures and protocols identified in the paleontological resources mitigation plan. 

This attachment presents the procedures to be undertaken to 

inventory, evaluate, and protect cultural and paleontological resources. 

EIPrAtanMi

2 

All paleontological specimens found on federal lands remain the property of the U.S. government. Specimens, therefore, may only be collected by a qualified paleontologist under a permit issued by the managing agency and must be curated in an approved repository. 

CUL-1 All work conducted under the Cultural Resources and Paleontological Monitoring and Mitigation Plan will be performed by qualified paleontologists... with trained assistants. CUL-2 An Unanticipated Discovery Plan will be included... This plan will specify what steps will be taken if a subsurface... fossil is discovered during construction, including stopping construction in the vicinity of the find, notification of the appropriate land management agency, identification of a qualified... paleontologist to conduct an evaluation of the find, and the development of an approved data recovery program or other mitigation measures. CUL-3 The Cultural Resource and Paleontological Monitoring and Mitigation Plan will include provisions for the preparation and curation of any fossil collections from federal lands and for the preparation of a final report based on the data recovered for activities on federal lands. CUL-9 If fossil materials are discovered during Project construction, all surface-disturbing activities in the vicinity of the find will cease until notification to proceed is given by the authorized officer. The site will be protected to reduce the risk of damage to fossils and context. 

EIPrAtanan
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-41 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

 Ecological Resources 

1 

Areas that are known to support ESA-listed species, BLM-sensitive, FS-sensitive, and state-listed species or their habitats must be identified and marked with flagging or other appropriate means to avoid direct impacts during construction activities. Construction activities upslope of these areas should be avoided to prevent indirect impacts of surface water and sediment runoff. 

Environmental oversight will be conducted for construction activities. Monitoring entails being present during these activities, communicating with contractors, taking daily notes, ensuring that all impacts occur within the designated limits, ensuring that the requirements of the Project EPMs that the Proponents have incorporated as part of the Project are being met, and using best professional judgment to ensure that Project activities do not adversely affect special status plant 

and wildlife species. Special status plant EPMs that 

specifically include the marking measure are: BIO-10 slickspot peppergrass. Special status wildlife EPMs that specifically include the marking measure are: BIO-23 non-raptor avian nests, PRC-5 burrowing owl, PAC-8 greater sage grouse, PMC-7 pygmy rabbit. 

PlPlSeEnCoPlSeEnCoanSeEnCoWanCoBLSeBuGrCo

EIS Appendix C-1, Attachment B, Stormwater Pollution Prevention, includes measures for temporary and permanent erosion and sediment control that will be used during construction, operation, and maintenance of the transmission line and ancillary facilities. The SWPPP will be designed to avoid direct impacts of surface water and sediment runoff in all habitats. 

EIPrAtPo
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-42 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

2 

All construction activities that could affect wetlands or waters of the United States must be conducted in accordance with the requirements identified in permits issued by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. 

Table 1.4-1 lists the major... permits... identified for the construction and operation of Gateway West. The Proponents would be responsible for obtaining all permits and approvals required to implement the proposed Project... U.S. Department of the Defense, Army Corps of Engineers, Omaha District, Walla Walla District: 1) Section 10, Rivers and Harbors Act Permit... for construction across the Snake River; and 2) Section 404, Clean Water Act Permit... for the placement of dredge or fill material into all Waters of the United States, including jurisdictional wetlands. 

EINeReW

Visual Resources 

1 

A pre-construction meeting with BLM/FS landscape architects or other designated visual/scenic resource specialist shall be held before construction begins to coordinate on the VRM/SMS mitigation strategy and confirm the compliancechecking schedule and procedures. Applicants shall integrate interim/final reclamation VRM/SMS mitigation elements early in the construction, which may include treatments such as thinning and feathering vegetation along project edges, enhanced contour grading, salvaging landscape materials from within construction areas, special revegetation requirements, etc. Applicants shall coordinate with BLM/FS in advance to have BLM/FS landscape architects or other designated visual/scenic resource specialists onsite during construction to work with implementing BMPs. 

The visual analysis has been conducted using applicable 

agency procedures. Federal agencies have reviewed and commented on the analysis and interpretation, and will continue to do so as the project progresses to ensure the analysis and the project meet their requirements. Proposed mitigation measures are identified in the body of the EIS. 

EIEnCo
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-43 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

Cultural Resources 

1 

Project applicants shall provide all cultural resources reports and data in an approved electronic format that is integrated across jurisdictional boundaries, that meets current standards, and that is compatible with SHPO systems. Project proponents shall submit cultural resources data on a regular basis to ensure that SHPO systems are kept up to date for reference as the different phases of the project proceed. 

All completed reports have been submitted to SHPO, and this 

process will continue. A

2 

When an area is identified as having a high potential for cultural resources but none are found during a pre-construction field survey, a professionally qualified cultural resources specialist will be required to monitor grounddisturbing activities during project construction, and to complete a report when the activities are finished. The protocol for monitoring should be identified in the CRMP. 

CULT-10 Unanticipated Discovery Plan covers applicable monitoring and notification procedures. 

EIEnCoRe

3 

When human remains, funerary objects, sacred objects, or objects of cultural patrimony are inadvertently discovered, the provisions of NAGPRA shall apply and the process identified in the CRMP must be followed. 

CUL-2 An Unanticipated Discovery Plan will be included as part of the Cultural Resources and Paleontological Monitoring and Mitigation Plan. This plan will specify what steps will be 

taken if a subsurface cultural resource or fossil is discovered during construction, including stopping construction in the vicinity of the find, notification of the appropriate land management agency, identification of a qualified archaeologist 

or paleontologist to conduct an evaluation of the find, and the 

development of an approved data recovery program or other mitigation measures. CUL-8 If remains are discovered, construction will be halted and the coroner will be notified. If 

human remains of Native American origin are discovered, or if associated grave goods, or objects of cultural patrimony are discovered on lands managed by a federal agency, the provisions of the Native American Graves Protection and 

Repatriation Act will be followed.

EIPrAtanan3.3EnCuMe
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-44 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

Hazardous Materials and Wastewater 

1 

Any wastewater generated by the applicant in association with temporary, portable sanitary facilities must be periodically removed on a schedule approved by the agency, by a licensed hauler and introduced into an existing municipal sewage treatment facility. Temporary, portable sanitary facilities provided for construction crews should be adequate to support expected onsite personnel and should be removed at completion of construction activities. 

Construction permits will include these requirements. A

2 

All hazardous materials (including vehicle and equipment fuels) brought to the project site will be in appropriate containers and will be stored in designated and properly designed storage areas with appropriate secondary containment features. Excess hazardous materials will be removed from the project site after completion of the activities in which they are used. 

The Proponents will prepare a Spill Prevention, Containment, and Countermeasures Plan (SPCC Plan) for review and approval by the appropriate regulatory agencies. That plan will include site-specific implementation of cleanup procedures in the event of soil contamination from spills or leaks of fuels, lubricants, coolants, or solvents as outlined in this attachment. 

EIPrAtCoCo

Air Emissions 

1 

The applicant shall cover construction materials and stockpiled soils if these are sources of fugitive dust. 

REC-15 BMPs will be used as appropriate and as described in the SWPPP to stabilize the stockpile and limit erosion.., control dust, ...in stockpiled soils. Sources, including construction projects, operating within Wyoming and Idaho are required to control fugitive dust emissions. Table 3.20-2 lists the fugitive dust regulations and control measures that apply to the Project. Construction materials would not be a source of fugitive dust. 

EIReAc(AEnQuReLeAd
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-45 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

2 

To minimize fugitive dust generation, the applicant shall water land before and during surface clearing or excavation activities. Areas where blasting would occur should be covered with mats. 

REC-15 BMPs will be used as appropriate and as described in the SWPPP to stabilize the stockpile and limit erosion.., control dust, ...in stockpiled soils. Sources, including construction projects, operating within Wyoming and Idaho are required to control fugitive dust emissions. Table 3.20-2 lists the fugitive dust regulations and control measures that apply to the Project. 

EIReAc(AEnQuReLeApPrAt

Noise 

1 

The applicant shall limit noisy construction activities (including blasting) to the least noise-sensitive times of day (i.e., daytime only between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m.) and weekdays. 

Construction activities at the substations could last from several weeks to several months on an intermittent schedule. Construction equipment would be operated on an as-needed basis during this period and activities would occur for limited lengths of time at a specific location and would occur during daytime hours in order to minimize impacts at NSAs. The EIS includes noise mitigation measures that would be followed during construction. 

EIEnCoIndto 3.2EnNo

Fire Safety 

1 

The applicant must ensure that all construction equipment used is adequately muffled and maintained and that spark arrestors are used with construction equipment in areas with, and during periods of, high fire danger. 

To reduce the potential for construction-related fires, BLM recommends a fire control plan be part of any contract between the Proponents and contractors. This plan should include specific measures to control fire... The contractors should also prepare a fire prevention plan that will include potential fire hazards... and housekeeping procedures. 

EIEnCoDiCoCo

2 Flammable materials (including fuels) will be stored in appropriate containers. SPC-1 Construction industry standard practices and BMPs will be used for spill prevention and containment. 

EIPrAtCoCo
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-46 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

IOPs for Project Operation Mitigation and Monitoring 

1 

All control and mitigation measures established for the project shall be maintained and implemented by the applicant throughout the operation of the project. Necessary adjustments may be made with the concurrence of the appropriate agency. 

EPMs, proposed by the Proponents, are provided in Appendix C and are considered part of the Project description for the proposed and alternative routes and design alternatives. This plan includes environmental protection measures for site access and road management, vegetation management, noxious weed control, protection measures for aquatic 

resources, protection for threatened, endangered and sensitive plant and animal species, restoration and revegetation, protection measures for cultural resources, fire 

protection, and emergency notification procedures. 

EICoAcEPMe(PMaRe

Ecological Resources 

1 

Applicants shall review existing information regarding plant and animal species and their habitats in the vicinity of the project area and identify potential impacts to the applicable agencies. 

This section addresses potential impacts... from the Proposed Route and its Alternatives, during... operation. 

EIEnCoCo(AEnSp3.EnGe3.EnSpSp
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-47 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

2 

Project staff shall avoid harassment or disturbance of wildlife, especially during reproductive courtship, migratory, and nesting seasons. 

The Proponents will implement the following measures to protect... animal species during routine and corrective O&M activities: ... OM-25 If sensitive wildlife species are discovered during O&M activities, and the animals are not directly within ground disturbance areas, they will be protected by marking the edges of the ROW and service roads in the general vicinity to ensure that workers do not leave those areas. If the animals are within work areas that have, or will have, ground disturbance, the Proponents will establish an appropriate buffer zone and will contact the federal or state land manager immediately. OM-28 The Proponents will provide crews and contractors with maps showing avoidance areas; these maps 

will include work zones as well as ROW areas where overland 

travel will be avoided. OM-31 All on-site personnel will be made aware that all birds of prey are protected by federal and state laws. 

EIOpEm

3 

Observations by project staff of potential wildlife problems, including wildlife mortality, will be immediately reported to the applicable agency authorized officer. 

OM-25 and OM-30 provide reporting obligations assumed by the Proponents. 

EIOpEm

Pesticide and Herbicide Use 

1 

If pesticides are used, the applicant shall ensure that pesticide applications as specified in the integrated vegetation management plan are conducted within the framework of agency policies and entail only the use of EPA registered pesticides that are applied in a manner consistent with label directions and state pesticide regulations. Pesticide use should be limited to nonpersistent immobile pesticides and may be applied only in accordance with label and application permit directions and stipulations for terrestrial and aquatic applications (BLM 2007b). 

The use of herbicides is included in the Framework Reclamation Plan for Construction Activities, and these requirements will be met. 

EIReAc
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-48 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

2 

Pesticide and herbicide uses must be avoided in the vicinity of sole source aquifer areas (BLM 2007b). 

The use of herbicides is included in the Framework Reclamation Plan for Construction Activities, and this requirement will be met. REC – 7 It may also be applicable to use other forms of weed control or eradication (mechanical control, hand control, grazing, biological agents), and the Final Reclamation Plan will discuss those options, as applicable. 

EIReAc

Visual Resources 

1 

Terms and conditions for VRM/SMS mitigation compliance shall be maintained and monitored for compliance with visual objectives, with adaptive management adjustments and modifications as necessary and approved by the BLM/FS landscape architect or other designated visual/scenic resource specialist. 

Project in general compliant with VRM/SMS objectives. Where the Proposed or Alternative Routes would not be in conformance with VRM or SMS objectives, management plan amendments are proposed. See EIS Section 3.2 for visual resource mitigation and Appendix F and G for plan amendments and visual resource impacts analysis, respectively.

EIEnCoRe(PAm(V

Hazardous Materials, Waste, and Wastewater 

1 

The applicant shall provide secondary containment for all on-site hazardous materials and waste storage areas. 

SPC-1 Construction industry standard practices and BMPs will 

be used for spill prevention and containment. SPC-3 All staging areas will contain fueling areas with containment. SPC-10 Pumps and temporary fuel tanks for the pumps will be stored in secondary containment. Containment will provide a minimum volume equal to 110 percent of the volume of the largest storage vessel located in the yard. 

EIPrAtCoCo

2 

The applicant shall ensure that wastes are properly containerized and removed periodically for disposal at appropriate offsite permitted disposal facilities. 

The Proponents will prepare a Spill Prevention, Containment, and Countermeasures Plan (SPCC Plan) for review and approval by the appropriate regulatory agencies. That plan will include site-specific implementation of cleanup procedures in the event of soil contamination from spills or leaks of fuels, lubricants, coolants, or solvents as outlined in this attachment. 

EIPrAtCoCo
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-49 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

3 

In the event of an accidental release to the environment, the applicant must initiate spill cleanup procedures and document the event, including a cause analysis; appropriate corrective actions taken; and a characterization of the resulting environmental or health and safety impacts. Documentation of the event should be provided to the land management agency’s authorized officer and other federal and state agencies, as required. 

The Proponents will prepare a Spill Prevention, Containment, and Countermeasures Plan (SPCC Plan) for review and approval by the appropriate regulatory agencies. That plan will include site-specific implementation of cleanup procedures in the event of soil contamination from spills or leaks of fuels, lubricants, coolants, or solvents as outlined in this attachment. 

EIPrAtCoCo

Air Quality 

1 

Dust abatement techniques (e.g., water spraying) shall be used by the applicant on unpaved, unvegetated surfaces to minimize airborne dust. Water for dust abatement should be obtained and used by the applicant under the appropriate state water use permitting system. Used oil will not be used for dust abatement. 

Sources, including construction projects, operating within Wyoming and Idaho are required to control fugitive dust emissions. Table 3.20-2 lists the fugitive dust regulations and control measures that apply to the Project. The Proponents have proposed that construction water would be obtained from municipal sources and landowners. No new water rights would be required. 

EIEnCoAfFrDu(AEnWIndto Co

Noise 

1 

The applicant shall ensure that all equipment has sound-control devices no less effective than those provided on the original equipment. 

The Proponents shall include noise mitigation measures in the Construction POD and COM Plan to ensure that equipment has sound control devices no less effective than those provided on original equipment. 

No
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-50 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

IOPs for Project Decommissioning General 

1 

Where applicable, decommissioning activities will conform to agency standards and guidance for mitigation and reclamation (e.g., BLM’s Gold Book4). 

The Proponents shall decommission facilities in accordance with the terms and conditions of the agency authorizations. A decommissioning plan will be developed at the time of decommissioning. This plan shall incorporate construction EPMs and mitigation measures as appropriate at the time of decommissioning.

 N

2 

Applicants must receive approval for changes to the ROW authorization prior to any modifications to the ROW required for decommissioning. 

The Proponents shall decommission facilities in accordance with the terms and conditions of the agency authorizations. A decommissioning plan will be developed at the time of decommissioning. This plan shall incorporate construction EPMs and mitigation measures as appropriate at the time of decommissioning.

 N

3 

Gravel work pads will be removed; gravel and other borrow material brought to the ROW during construction will be disposed of as approved by the agency. 

The Proponents shall decommission facilities in accordance with the terms and conditions of the agency authorizations. A decommissioning plan will be developed at the time of decommissioning. This plan shall incorporate construction EPMs and mitigation measures as appropriate at the time of decommissioning.

 N

4 

Any wells constructed on the ROW to support operations will be removed and properly closed in accordance with applicable local or state regulations. 

The Proponents shall decommission facilities in accordance with the terms and conditions of the agency authorizations. A decommissioning plan will be developed at the time of decommissioning. This plan shall incorporate construction EPMs and mitigation measures as appropriate at the time of decommissioning.

 N
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-51 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

5 

All equipment, components, and aboveground structures must be cleaned and removed from the site for reclamation, salvage, or disposal; all below-ground components will be removed to a minimum depth of three feet to establish a root zone free of obstacles; pipeline segments and other components located at greater depths may be abandoned in place provided they are cleaned (of all residue) and filled with inert material to prevent possible future subsidence. 

The Proponents shall decommission facilities in accordance with the terms and conditions of the agency authorizations. A decommissioning plan will be developed at the time of decommissioning. This plan shall incorporate construction EPMs and mitigation measures as appropriate at the time of decommissioning. 

No

6 

Dismantled and cleaned components will be promptly removed; interim storage of removed components or salvaged materials that is required before final disposition is completed will not occur on federal land. 

The Proponents shall decommission facilities in accordance with the terms and conditions of the agency authorizations. A decommissioning plan will be developed at the time of decommissioning. This plan shall incorporate construction EPMs and mitigation measures as appropriate at the time of decommissioning.

 N

7 

At the close of decommissioning, applicants will provide the federal land manager with survey data precisely locating all belowgrade components that were abandoned in place. 

The Proponents shall decommission facilities in accordance with the terms and conditions of the agency authorizations. A decommissioning plan will be developed at the time of decommissioning. This plan shall incorporate construction EPMs and mitigation measures as appropriate at the time of decommissioning.

 N

Mitigation and Monitoring 

1 

All control and mitigation measures established for the project in the POD and other required plans will be incorporated into a decommissioning plan that will be approved by the federal land manager(s); the decommissioning plan will include a site reclamation plan and a monitoring program and will be coordinated with owners and operators of other systems on the corridor to ensure no disruption to the operation of those systems. 

The Proponents shall decommission facilities in accordance with the terms and conditions of the agency authorizations. A decommissioning plan will be developed at the time of decommissioning. This plan shall incorporate construction EPMs and mitigation measures as appropriate at the time of decommissioning.

 N

Surface Water 
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-52 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

1 

A SWPPP permit will be obtained and its provisions implemented for all affected areas before any ground-disturbance activities commence. 

The Proponents shall decommission facilities in accordance with the terms and conditions of the agency authorizations. A decommissioning plan will be developed at the time of decommissioning. This plan shall incorporate construction EPMs and mitigation measures as appropriate at the time of decommissioning. NPDES permitting requirements will be followed. 

EITa

Transportation 

1 

Additional access roads needed for decommissioning will follow the paths of access roads established during construction to the greatest extent possible; all access roads not required for the continued operation and maintenance of other energy systems present in the corridor shall be removed and their footprints reclaimed and restored. 

The Proponents shall decommission facilities in accordance with the terms and conditions of the agency authorizations. A decommissioning plan will be developed at the time of decommissioning. This plan shall incorporate construction EPMs and mitigation measures as appropriate at the time of decommissioning. 

No

Restoration 

1 

Topsoil removed during decommissioning activities shall be salvaged and reapplied during final reclamation; all areas of disturbed soil shall be reclaimed using weedfree native shrubs, grasses, and forbs or other plant species approved by the land management agency; grades will be returned to pre-development contours to the greatest extent feasible. 

The Proponents shall decommission facilities in accordance with the terms and conditions of the agency authorizations. A decommissioning plan will be developed at the time of decommissioning. This plan shall incorporate construction EPMs and mitigation measures as appropriate at the time of decommissioning. 

No

2 

The vegetation cover, composition, and diversity shall be restored to values commensurate with the ecological setting, as approved by the authorizing officer. 

The Proponents shall decommission facilities in accordance with the terms and conditions of the agency authorizations. A decommissioning plan will be developed at the time of decommissioning. This plan shall incorporate construction EPMs and mitigation measures as appropriate at the time of decommissioning. 

No

Hazardous Materials and Waste Management 
Gateway West Transmission Line Draft EIS 

Appendix H – West-wide Energy Corridors IOPs 

H-53 

West-Wide Energy Corridors (WWEC) Interagency Operating Procedures (IOPs

Based on WWEC USFS & BLM Jan 2009 RODs

WWEC 

IOP # WWEC IOP Description GW Response Description 

1 

All fuels, hazardous materials, and other chemicals will be removed from the site and properly disposed of or reused. 

The Proponents shall decommission facilities in accordance with the terms and conditions of the agency authorizations. A decommissioning plan will be developed at the time of decommissioning. This plan shall incorporate construction EPMs and mitigation measures as appropriate at the time of decommissioning. 

No

2 

Incidental spills of petroleum products and other chemicals will be removed and the affected area cleaned to meet applicable standards. 

The Proponents shall decommission facilities in accordance with the terms and conditions of the agency authorizations. A decommissioning plan will be developed at the time of decommissioning. This plan shall incorporate construction EPMs and mitigation measures as appropriate at the time of decommissioning. 

No

3 

Solid wastes generated during decommissioning will be accumulated, transported, and disposed in permitted offsite facilities in accordance with state and local requirements; no solid wastes will be disposed of within the footprint of the ROW or the corridor. 

The Proponents shall decommission facilities in accordance with the terms and conditions of the agency authorizations. A decommissioning plan will be developed at the time of decommissioning. This plan shall incorporate construction EPMs and mitigation measures as appropriate at the time of decommissioning. 

No

4 Hazardous wastes generated as a result of 

component cleaning will be containerized and disposed of in permitted facilities. 

The Proponents shall decommission facilities in accordance with the terms and conditions of the agency authorizations. A decommissioning plan will be developed at the time of decommissioning. This plan shall incorporate construction EPMs and mitigation measures as appropriate at the time of decommissioning. 

No