A notice that an environmental impact statement will be prepared and considered. A proposal may exist in fact as well as by agency declaration that one exists. The range of actions, alternatives, and impacts to be considered in an environmental impact statement. The procedure by which the agency identifies important issues and determines the extent of analysis necessary for an informed decision on a proposed action. Scoping is an integral part of environmental analysis.
Significance varies with the setting of the proposed action.
For instance, in the case of a site-specific action, significance would usually depend upon the effects in the locale rather than in the world as a whole. This refers to the severity of impact. Responsible officials must bear in mind that more than one agency may make decisions about partial aspects of a major action. A significant effect may exist even if the Federal agency believes that on balance the effect will be beneficial. The degree to which the proposed action affects public health or safety.