EMPSi ABOUT US CONTRACTING NEWS WORKING HERE INSIGHTS Planning for resilient, diverse, and productive National Forests November 2021—From the rugged High Uintas Wilderness containing Utah’s tallest peaks, to the desert shrublands of southern Wyoming, the Ashley National Forest covers a diverse landscape that provides a multitude of ecosystem services to the surround communities. The Forest Service, with the help of EMPSi, has released a Revised Draft Forest Plan and Environmental Impact Statement that reflect over five years of collaborative working group meetings and public input. The revised plan provides a framework to guide land management on the Ashley National Forest for the next 15 to 20 years. Key components of the plan include a range of recreation opportunities to meet public demands and changing demographics, protection and restoration of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, and providing for subsistence and other cultural activities as well as managing for areas of tribal importance. This work reflects EMPSi’s role as a key partner with the Forest Service in long-range land use planning. Greater Sage-Grouse Conservation—A Long and Winding Road November 2021—A recent USGS report found greater sage-grouse populations have declined since 1965 with only a 50% chance that most breeding grounds, called leks, will be productive in about 60 years from now if current conditions persist. In 2015, the BLM and US Forest Service, with support by EMPSi and in cooperation with the US Fish and Wildlife Service, prepared the Greater Sage-Grouse Conservation Plans. It was the largest conservation effort in US history covering ten western states. The Plans were subsequently revised for seven states in 2019 and survived legal challenges. Thanks to ongoing monitoring efforts and new scientific information, the BLM has issued a notice of intent to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to update the plans again to further support sagebrush habitat conservation and public land restoration to benefit sage-grouse, as well as the people who rely on this landscape for their livelihoods and traditions. EMPSi is bringing its historical experience to help the BLM with the EIS process. Public scoping comments will be accepted until February 5th. Being WaterSMART–Optimizing the Reuse of Reclaimed Water in the City Different October 2021—The City and County of Santa Fe rely on water from the Santa Fe River, Rio Grande, groundwater, and imported San Juan-Chama Project (SJCP) surface water. The SJCP is a Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation) inter-basin water transfer project that supplies water from the greater Colorado River basin to the Rio Grande basin. To avoid predicted supply shortages by 2030, the City and County are proposing to construct a 17-mile pipeline to return treated, unconsumed SJCP water back to the Rio Grande. In exchange, the City and County would be able to take additional diversions to fully consume their allocation of SJCP water. The project requires right-of-way permits from the Bureau of Land Management and US Forest Service. Additionally, Reclamation has recommended the project to receive federal funds under the WaterSMART Water Reclamation and Reuse Program. EMPSi is helping prepare an Environmental Assessment for the project. Scoping is underway until November 19, 2021. Teaming up for Travel Management Planning September 2021—As recreational demand increases on our federal public lands, proactive planning is needed to protect resources and provide meaningful experiences. The BLM recently awarded a five-year blanket purchase agreement contract to the experienced consulting team of Advanced Resource Solutions, Inc. and EMPSi. The ARS and EMPSi team has a long history of working on some of the most complex and controversial travel management plans and environmental compliance projects for the BLM. Our proven travel planning processes and thorough environmental impact analyses help the BLM avoid litigation for contentious travel management decisions for over 243 million acres of public lands. Planning for the New Normal with Wildfire September 2021—US wildfires in 2021 have so far burned over 3.5 million acres. In the West, dense fuels stressed by drought, invasive species, and beetle infestations have resulted in a landscape prone to large, high-intensity fires. EMPSi is working with the BLM and Forest Service to develop and implement strategies to improve ecosystem and infrastructure resilience. Our recent EMPSi Insights White Paper, The Benefits of Regional Joint-Agency Wildfire Planning and NEPA, highlights several approaches for improving landscape resiliency through programmatic wildfire planning. We share three strategies to decrease reliance on fire suppression, implement cross-jurisdictional landscape-scale wildfire planning, and reduce the risk of large, intense wildfires. We worked with the BLM and Forest Service to test these strategies through projects like the programmatic EISs for fuel breaks and fuels reduction and rangeland restoration in the Great Basin, the Lake George Area Fuels Management EA, and the Wet Mountain Hazardous Fuels/Forest Restoration Project in the Rocky Mountains. We are working also with the BLM in Colorado on the North Powderhorn Fuels Project. Managing the Lands of Smokey Bear and Billy the Kid August 2021—Covering over 1.1 million acres in south-central New Mexico, the Lincoln National Forest encompasses diverse landscapes with five ecological life zones, abundant habitat, and a rich cultural history. The Forest Service, with assistance from EMPSi, has released the Draft Forest Plan Revision and Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), which focuses on outcomes rather than outputs, includes shared stewardship, collaboration, and partnerships, and uses adaptive management. The plan promotes sustainable uses to improve local economies, recommends 21 new wilderness areas covering about 4 percent of the Forest, and protects significant cave systems. Written and electronic comments on the draft plan will be accepted until November 5, 2021. Restoring Resilient Riparian Areas to Address Climate Change August 2021—The U.S. Forest Service approved a plan to restore riparian areas and waterways in the Carson, Cibola, and Santa Fe National Forests and portions of the Kiowa National Grassland in northern New Mexico. Restoration projects would counter stressors such as climate change, recreation, livestock grazing, wildfires, and encroaching development. “The Forest Service decision is a milestone in northern New Mexico and will create opportunities . . . to address the depleted conditions of our streams and rivers on federal lands,” noted Bryan Bird, Southwest program director for Defenders of Wildlife. EMPSi prepared the Environmental Assessment and Biological Evaluation and worked with the Forest Service, New Mexico Environment Department, and other interested parties to develop a toolbox of in-stream, side-channel and floodplain projects, riparian vegetation treatments, and relocating or closing certain roads and trails to help reduce erosion. Ensuring the Safety of America’s Dam Infrastructure July 2021—Federal agencies manage hundreds of dams that provide critical water and power resources but also can pose significant risks to public safety in the event of dam failures. EMPSi is supporting the Bureau of Reclamation, Bureau of Indian Affairs, and US Fish and Wildlife Service in their efforts to efficiently rehabilitate aging dam infrastructure at high priority facilities by conducting biological, cultural, and other field studies, preparing National Environmental Policy Act compliance documents, and facilitating permitting for dam safety projects throughout the western US. Our staff bring lessons learned from other fast-tracked priority projects to allow for timely dam safety updates while minimizing impacts on sensitive resources. Expanding Bison Grazing on Public Lands in Montana July 2021—In partnership with EMPSi, the Bureau of Land Management has released a preliminary environmental assessment analyzing the American Prairie Reserve’s proposal to modify grazing permits to allow for bison grazing across more than 69,300 acres of public land in Phillips County, Montana. Modifications to fencing and other adjustments, such as combining pastures on seven allotments, would also occur. The public comment period runs from July 1 through August 29, during which time EMPSi will host and facilitate a virtual public meeting. A final decision on the proposed grazing permit modifications will be made after environmental analysis is complete, which is expected in winter 2021. Collaborative-based Tools to Assess Ecosystem Services and Benefits on Public Lands May 2021—What is the best way to identify and measure the benefits provided to people from National Forest System lands? EMPSi worked with the US Forest Service and Duke University to investigate this question. Using the Ashley National Forest Plan revision process as a case study, the team applied conceptual modeling to identify the benefits from ecosystems, also known as ecosystem services. In addition, different metrics to measure the impact of Forest management decisions on ecosystem services were investigated. This work can be used to explore tradeoffs between alternative land management actions and to better engage the public in the process. Details of this pilot project have been published in a recent edition of Forests: Exploring the Use of Ecosystem Services Conceptual Models to Account for the Benefits of Public Lands: An Example from National Forest Planning in the United States. Improving Visitor Experience Leads to Better Conservation May 2021—We are excited to announce the release of the Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area (NCA) Visitor Contact Station Environmental Assessment (EA) for public review. In partnership with EMPSi, the Bureau of Land Management, Southern Nevada District developed the EA to analyze the potential environmental impacts of developing and maintaining a permanent visitor contact station and improved infrastructure at Sloan Canyon NCA in Henderson Nevada. The visitor station will give the public a comfortable place to learn about the unique resources in the NCA and provide educational opportunities for those wishing to explore! This will also include expanded parking, an outdoor amphitheater, public restrooms, and an ADA accessible nature trail. The public can review and comment on the EA from April 28, 2021 to May 28, 2021. BLM invites the public to attend a virtual public meeting on May 5, 2021. Monitoring and Adaptive Management for Forest Health April 2021—Monitoring and evaluation are key to successful adaptive management of our national forests. EMPSi assisted the Bridger-Teton National Forest in preparing their 2019/2020 Biennial Monitoring Report, evaluating indicators for air quality, vegetation, wildlife, aquatic and riparian ecosystems, recreation, environmental stressors, and timber. Report highlights include increased visitor use, a shift to online sales of firewood and Christmas tree permits, the greatest increase in timber sales of the previous ten years, treatments for invasive cheatgrass across 11,500 acres, and the Tri-Basin Fish Passage and Watershed Restoration—a collaborative restoration project implemented to benefit cutthroat trout and other aquatic species. Fulfilling Historic Obligations - Transferring Federal Lands to Colorado April 2021—In partnership with EMPSi, the Bureau of Land Management released a preliminary environmental assessment that analyzes the proposed transfer of approximately 17,200 acres of federal surface and minerals, and an additional 6,000 acres of federal mineral estate, to the state of Colorado. The transfer will satisfy a debt owed to Colorado dating back to its statehood in 1876. The final acreage conveyed will be determined after environmental analysis is completed this summer. Public comments are being accepted through May 14th. Ensuring the Scientific Integrity of Grizzly Bear Conservation March 2021—The US Fish and Wildlife Service recently released the Species Status Assessment and subsequent 5-year Status Review for grizzly bears (Ursus arctos horribilis). This comprehensive review supports the Service’s recommendation to keep the status of grizzly bear in the lower 48 states as threatened under the Endangered Species Act. Limited habitat connectivity and human-caused mortality are some of the challenges facing the conservation of this iconic species. EMPSi is proud to have provided an independent scientific peer review of the assessment to ensure the accuracy of methods and findings. Your Voice Heard at the Utah Lake Wetland Preserve March 2021—Have an idea about how to manage the Utah Lake Wetland Preserve? EMPSi is teaming with Martin & Nicholson to prepare a comprehensive management plan and environmental assessment for the Utah Lake Wetland Preserve, which is located an hour south of Salt Lake City. The plan will give the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources a blueprint for balancing wildlife habitat restoration, vegetation management, and wildlife-dependent recreation in the Preserve. EMPSi partnered with the Utah Reclamation Mitigation and Conservation Commission and the Department of the Interior Central Utah Project Completion Act (CUPCA) Office to create a virtual public meeting website as a way to engage with the public and ensure input is considered throughout the process. Planning for Sustainable Recreation at the Calico Basin February 2021—The Calico Basin, part of the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area west of Las Vegas, is an increasingly popular destination for rock-climbing, hiking, photography, and more. Recognizing the need to balance high-quality visitor experience with resource protection in one of the region’s most popular recreation areas, EMPSi in partnership with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is facilitating a virtual public information meeting to get input for the development of a Recreation Area Management Plan. This includes an interactive website and live virtual public information meeting on March 11, 2021, from 5 to 7 p.m. PST. Based on public input, the plan will improve and enhance recreational experiences in the Calico Basin by identifying allowed trail uses and areas for rock climbing; improving signage and visitor information; and providing a long-term, sustainable funding and visitor management program for Calico Basin. Protecting Salmon is Rewarding Work February 2021—EMPSi received the Environmental Business Journal Project Merit Award for our innovative work to protect salmon as part of the Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery Project and EIS. The project analyzes various opportunities to modernize the Hatchery’s surface water intake and delivery system, while improving fish passage, sediment control, and ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable delivery of the Hatchery’s full surface water rights from Icicle Creek. Congratulations to our talented staff! Input Needed: Proposed Management of 13 Million Acres of Public Lands in Alaska January 2021—The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and EMPSi are hosting six virtual public meetings and an online open house regarding the Central Yukon Draft Resource Management Plan. The draft plan, prepared collaboratively by EMPSi and BLM, describes and analyzes how the BLM proposes to manage about 13 million acres of public lands, including a utility corridor along the Dalton Highway, for the next 15 to 20 years. The public comment period runs until March 11, 2021. Resiliency for Rangeland and Forest Health January 2021—EMPSi recently completed a number of regional and site-specific rangeland and forest health projects to improve ecological functions and mitigate fire risk. The Fuels Reduction and Rangeland Restoration program evaluates the use of tools like manual, mechanical, and chemical treatments, prescribed fire, seeding, and targeted grazing to enhance the function of currently degraded sagebrush communities across the 200-million-acre Great Basin. The programmatic management framework will be used by land managers to create effective fuels management and vegetation restoration projects that can be implemented immediately with minimal additional compliance requirements. The North Powderhorn Fuels Project, which in the final phases of review and publication, outlines a vegetation treatment program on 90,000 acres in western Colorado to reduce stands of dead ponderosa pine lost to spruce beetle infestations. Both documents aim to reduce the risk of high-severity fire events that impede healthy forest regeneration. Salinity Control in the Colorado River Basin December 2020—The US Bureau of Reclamation operates the Paradox Valley Unit to prevent the natural salt load from degrading the water quality of the main stem of the Colorado River. Located along the Dolores River in western Colorado, the Unit intercepts shallow brine ground water and uses a deep injection well to keep it from reaching the river. Reclamation, in partnership with EMPSi, released a Final Environmental Impact Statement that analyzed several alternatives to continue capturing the brine. After weighing the benefits and impacts, Reclamation decided to take no action. Assuring Safe Water Delivery and Fish Passage in Northern Nevada December 2020—Since 1905 local Tribes, farmers, and wildlife have relied upon water from the Newlands Project’s 32-mile Truckee Canal. Over the past century few of the facilities have been upgraded, which has resulted in canal breaches, flooding, and impeded fish passage for listed fish species in the Truckee River. In response to these issues, Reclamation developed, and EMPSi analyzed, projects to restore fish passage at Derby Dam and to conduct repairs and updates to the canal. The Derby Dam Fish Screen Project, completed in fall 2020, allows the federally threatened Lahontan cutthroat trout to migrate upstream beyond Derby Dam for the first time in more than a century, contributing to this iconic species’ recovery. Additionally this month, Reclamation signed the record of decision for the Truckee Canal operation and maintenance project to strengthen the canal, replace check structures, and install detention basins. These actions would be implemented by the Truckee Carson Irrigation District to restore safe, long-term Canal operations. Modernization of the Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery, Washington November 2020—The Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery in Washington mitigates anadromous fish losses above the Grand Coulee Dam by rearing approximately 1.2 million spring Chinook salmon annually. The current diversion and water delivery system on Icicle Creek is approaching the end of its operational life and does not comply with the National Marine Fisheries Service criteria for anadromous salmonids. The Bureau of Reclamation, in partnership with EMPSi, has recently released a Draft Environmental Impact Statement that analyzes various opportunities to modernize the Hatchery’s surface water intake and delivery system, while improving fish passage, sediment control, and ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable delivery of the Hatchery’s full surface water rights from Icicle Creek. Resilient Motorized Recreational System for the Pike and San Isabel National Forest November 2020—The Forest Service, in collaboration with EMPSi, finalized the Motorized Travel Management Plan for the Pike and San Isabel National Forest in Colorado. Based on an intensive collaborative process, the plan designates roads and trails for public motor vehicle use covering over 2.2 million acres in 15 counties. The plan provides a safe, efficient, and sustainable motorized transportation system that protects natural and cultural resources, avoids user conflicts, and provides a variety of motorized recreational experiences. Environmental Services Contract for the US Army, Honolulu District October 2020—EMPSi is part of a team lead by Engineering/Remediation Resources Group, Inc. (ERRG) that was awarded a $49M contract by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Honolulu District to provide environmental compliance services in Hawaii and the Pacific Region. Delivery orders may include support for environmental assessments, environmental impact statements, social impact assessments, hazard investigations, data collection, literature searches, field investigations, site monitoring, risk assessments, research designs, mitigation measures, and environmental permits. EMPSi will support ERRG for NEPA-related delivery orders under this five year contract. Modernizing Management of Osage Nation Trust Assets October 2020—Members of the Osage Nation have long relied on crucial income from oil deposits beneath Osage County, Oklahoma. In order to manage development more efficiently to protect Osage livelihoods while preserving the area’s pastoral beauty and sensitive natural resources, EMPSi and the Bureau of Indian Affairs developed a standardized set of protective measures based on the latest industry best practices. This management provides much needed certainty to resource developers and land managers and ensures that the County’s historical and natural features, including the world’s largest protected expanse of tallgrass prairie, are maintained for future generations. The protective measures are evaluated in a Final EIS published on October 16, 2020. Improving Refuge and Species Management through Virtual Public Engagement September 2020—From Dall sheep in Alaska to alligators in Florida, EMPSi is helping the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to safely and effectively engage the public on key questions that will shape the future of refuge and species management. Through virtual workshops, Q&A sessions, press conferences, and the agency’s first virtual Endangered Species Act public hearing on the proposal to delist the endangered Nashville crayfish, EMPSi is providing innovative ways for the public to learn about projects and issues, ask questions, and provide input to the agency. Whether it is a visitor services plan to promote recreation, an analysis of farming practices on refuges, or a new regulation to protect sensitive wildlife, EMPSi is working as a close partner with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to help it continue to fulfill its mission during challenging times. Forest Service Awards EMPSi $20 million Nationwide Contract September 2020—The Forest Service awarded EMPSi a $20 million, 5-year Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity contract for environmental analysis and decision-making activities. As an incumbent to the previous contract, EMPSi will build upon its long-standing relationship with the Forest Service by supporting forest planning, restoration, and other resource programs nationwide. The contract is administered by Region 4 but can be used by any forest. Collaborative Planning at the Utah Lake Wetland Preserve August 2020—Through Section 306 of the Central Utah Project Completion Act, the Utah Reclamation Mitigation and Conservation Commission and Utah Division of Wildlife Resources are developing strategies for managing the Utah Lake Wetland Preserve. EMPSi is partnering with the Mitigation Commission, Division of Wildlife Resources, and other stakeholders to develop a Preserve Management Plan and associated environmental assessment to guide future management. EMPSi is facilitating virtual meetings to engage stakeholders and the public throughout the planning process. Located 30 miles south of Salt Lake City, the Utah Lake Wetland Preserve provides important wildlife habitat and outdoor recreation opportunities. Reducing the Livestock Grazing Permit Renewal Backlog August 2020—Facing a permitting backlog, the Bureau of Land Management awarded EMPSi a contract to prepare multiple programmatic environmental assessments (EAs) for livestock grazing permit renewals within the Grand Junction Field Office in Colorado. The EAs will examine the impacts of grazing over a 209,000-acre project area and address key issues, including Greater and Gunnison Sage-grouse habitat and threatened and endangered listed plant species. Permits will be issued based on the analysis in the EAs. Establishing the Nation’s First Backcountry Conservation Areas July 2020—Through a collaborative effort with landowners, local, state and federal agencies, and other stakeholders, the Bureau of Land Management, in partnership with EMPSi, recently designated two of the nation’s first Backcountry Conservation Areas. At 106,200 acres, these areas will conserve big game habitat along with hunting and fishing areas, in alignment with Secretarial Orders 3356 and 3362. These designations were established by the BLM Montana’s recently released Lewistown Field Office Approved Resource Management Plan, which guides public land uses, promotes public access, and ensures resource protection for over 1.8 million acres of public land in the state. Enhancing Southern Pine Forest Ecosystems July 2020—Forest management in southern pine ecosystems is critical to reduce hazardous fuels, improve wildlife habitat, and aid in the restoration of native vegetation. EMPSi is working with the Caney Ranger District of the Kisatchie National Forest in Louisiana to analyze the use of prescribed fire and mechanical treatments to improve forest conditions. This effort will require an environmental assessment and an amendment to the Kisatchie National Forest Land and Resource Management Plan to ensure the proposed action is consistent with current management direction. Issue-based Analysis of Renewable Energy in Nevada June 2020—Northern Nevada is a hot spot for geothermal energy. The BLM is analyzing a proposal for two binary geothermal power plants that would provide 40 megawatts of renewable electricity. Other project elements include an electrical substation, geothermal production and injection wells, aboveground pipelines, and an approximately 58-mile long overhead power line that will connect to a substation near Fernley. EMPSi is providing third-party environmental compliance expertise to support the project, including partnering with the BLM to prepare a hydrogeologic evaluation, biological resources baseline report, and an issue-based draft Environmental Assessment. One Step Closer to Resolving Historic Water Conflicts in the Taos Valley June 2020—Managing contemporary water issues in the West is challenging and complex. To resolve historic water rights and use issues in the Taos Valley of New Mexico, the 2013 Taos Pueblo Water Rights Settlement Agreement identified a number of regional water development projects. The Bureau of Reclamation Albuquerque Area Office, in partnership with EMPSi, has taken a key step towards implementing these projects with the publication of the Taos Pueblo Indian Water Rights Settlement Mutual-Benefit Projects Programmatic Environmental Assessment (EA ) and Finding of No Significant Impact. The EA evaluates proposed projects involving groundwater wells, water storage, and a stream gage and streamlines future site-specific environmental compliance for individual settlement projects, enabling Reclamation to fulfill its obligations under the historic agreement. Boots on the Ground to Prevent Catastrophic Dam Failures May 2020—The US Bureau of Reclamation manages a large portfolio of dams across the country, many constructed nearly 100 years ago. The Safety of Dams program focuses on assessing risks and implementing actions to resolve safety concerns related to these aging dams. EMPSi is aiding Reclamation by conducting sensitive species and biological surveys, wetland delineations, in-stream flow analysis, and archaeological field investigations on two important safety of dams efforts in Washington State at the Kachess and Conconully dams. To ensure these essential projects are completed safely and without delay, EMPSi’s teams will be using strict COVID-19 field protocols. The results of the projects will help inform the development of any needed corrective actions. Expanding Needs for Virtual Meetings May 2020—Since rolling out our virtual meeting platform two weeks ago, EMPSi released six virtual interactive meeting websites and facilitated two live webinar/teleconferences. While it is challenging to replicate face-to-face meetings, these interactive sites provide a critical tool in engaging the public for environmental compliance projects. Learn more at: www.NEPApublicmeetings.com Improving Irrigation within the Gila River Watershed April 2020—The Bureau of Reclamation and the New Mexico Interstate Stream Commission released the potential environmental impacts of the New Mexico Unit project, which proposes to divert Gila River and San Francisco River water and convey this water for storage in off-river sites in the Cliff-Gila Valley, in the Virden Valley, and along the San Francisco River in southwestern New Mexico. The project is proposed by the New Mexico Central Arizona Project Entity in accordance with the Arizona Water Settlement Act. EMPSi assisted in the development of the Draft Environmental Impact Statement which is available for public comment until June 8th. A virtual open house is available on the project website www.nmuniteis.com. Restoring Rangelands and Preventing Catastrophic Wildfires in the Great Basin April 2020—Intact sagebrush communities are disappearing within the Great Basin due to the interactions of increased wildfires, the spread of invasive annual grasses, and the encroachment of pinyon-juniper woodlands. To enhance the long-term health and functionality of sagebrush communities, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is proposing to implement a suite of restoration treatments covering over 223 million acres in portions of California, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, and Washington. EMPSi assisted the BLM in preparing the Great Basin Fuels Reduction and Rangeland Restoration Draft Programmatic EIS, which is currently available for public comment. Virtual Public Meetings for Effective Engagement March 2020—Public input is a critical component of federal environmental compliance projects. During these uncertain times of social distancing and stay-at-home directives, face-to-face meetings to share information and solicit input are not always possible. To bridge this gap, EMPSi created a new virtual meeting platform that safely and effectively engages the public. From facilitated on-demand video webinars to interactive virtual websites, EMPSi’s platform allows for customized features to maximize interaction with the public by addressing unique local and cultural preferences. More information at: www.virtualpublicmeeting.com. Assuring Safe Water Delivery for the Truckee Canal March 2020—On January 5, 2008, the Truckee Canal breached after a storm and caused flooding and damage to approximately 590 properties in the City of Fernley, Nevada. Until a long-term repair is made, the Truckee-Carson Irrigation District maintains the canal while operating with lower flows. The Bureau of Reclamation and EMPSi recently released a draft EIS evaluating a range of long-term repairs for the canal, including strengthening the canal, replacing check structures, and installing detention basins. Balancing development and cultural resources in northwest New Mexico March 2020—The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) manage most of northwest New Mexico--a complex, checkerboard area of varied jurisdiction with a rich cultural history that includes Chaco Culture National Historical Park. These agencies have been engaged in an unprecedented collaboration and NEPA process to analyze how new technologies for oil and gas development such as horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing could affect the area's resources. With assistance from EMPSi, they have released the Farmington Mancos-Gallup Draft Resource Management Plan Amendment and EIS, which considers impacts from development and rights-of-way for oil and gas, as well as management of vegetation and protection of wilderness characteristics. Through this process, the agencies will create a joint management framework that provides consistency and also accounts for the area’s importance to the livelihood, culture, religion, and identity of the people who call it home. Improving on history to keep the Coast Guard functioning February 2020—As a long term partner supporting the Coast Guard mission, EMPSi prepared an environmental assessment to upgrade the utility heat system at the historic Coast Guard Yard in Baltimore, Maryland. The assessment evaluated different alternative heating systems, including centralized steam system, decentralized electric, natural gas, and geothermal heating systems, or a combination thereof. All options were found to provide benefits to the natural and human environment while improving the ability to meet the mission of maintaining and repairing Coast Guard cutters. One step closer to controlling wildfires February 2020—The BLM, with assistance from EMPSi, has released the Final Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for Fuel Breaks in the Great Basin. The EIS uses a landscape-level, condition-based analysis to evaluate tools—including manual, mechanical, and chemical treatments, prescribed fire, seeding, and targeted grazing—to construct and maintain a system of fuel breaks across six western states. The EIS meets the intent of Secretarial Order 3372, “Reducing Wildfire Risks on Department of the Interior Land Through Active Management” and Executive Order 13855, which promotes active management to reduce wildfire risk. From Mexico to Canada – Biological Evaluations for 30 National Forests January 2020—In partnership with US Forest Service Region 5 and Region 6, EMPSi is analyzing the impacts on biological resources from the United States Geological Survey’s proposal to install early earthquake warning stations on National Forest System lands in California, Oregon, and Washington. EMPSi will be preparing a Biological Evaluation for each region, analyzing the potential effects on critical habitat and over 100 protected, sensitive, and indicator species. Biological Assessments will also be prepared if the Forest Service determines that Endangered Species Act consultation is needed. Keep it Outstanding! Recreational carrying capacity study for Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse in Florida January 2020—Have you seen pictures of the beautiful Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Outstanding Natural Area (ONA) in Florida? Have you visited it? If yes, then EMPSi and the Bureau of Land Management want your input on a brief visitor use survey. EMPSi is preparing a study to help the BLM better understand recreational use at the 120-acre site. Designated by Congress in 2008, the ONA contains many unique natural, cultural, scenic, educational, scientific, and recreational values. Your participation in the survey will help inform the recreational carrying capacity study and future management of the site. Click here for more information. Crunching numbers to improve northern spotted owl habitat in Oregon December 2019—EMPSi is conducting a landscape-based economic analysis of alternative management measures to meet the desired future conditions for late-successional forests to support special status species, including the northern spotted owl and marbled murrelet, within 33,000 acres of forest managed by the Bureau of Land Management, Siuslaw Field Office. Using economic input-output modeling, EMPSi is evaluating various commercial thinning and restoration treatments to estimate jobs, income, payments to local governments, and the cost to the BLM of implementing each alternative. Evaluating appropriate management in the National Petroleum Reserve, Alaska December 2019—The BLM, with assistance from EMPSi, is holding 8 public meetings in communities on the North Slope, and Anchorage and Fairbanks as part of the public comment period for the Draft Integrated Activity Plan and EIS. EMPSi assisted the BLM with preparing the plan, which assesses a range of alternatives that open new areas to leasing, examination of current special area boundaries, and consideration of new or revised lease stipulations and required operating procedures that balance promoting development while protecting surface resources. Managing the Bakken Boom November 2019—Oil production in North Dakota’s Bakken Formation has increased over 300 percent within the last 30 years. This poses many land management challenges that were not foreseen when the BLM’s Resource Management Plan was prepared in 1988. EMPSi is excited to assist the BLM in revising the plan to update management for multiple resources, including air quality, coal resources, wildlife habitat, and vegetation. EMPSi was awarded a contract to complete special studies, including Coal Screening, Visual Resource Inventory, Cultural Resources Class I Report, Wild and Scenic Rivers Inventory, and Air Modeling, in addition to revising the plan and preparing an EIS on an accelerated timeline. BLM and BIA reach a major planning milestone for the Great Plains November 2019—On November 1, the Oklahoma, Kansas and Texas Final Joint EIS/BLM RMP and BIA Integrated RMP was published. The planning area includes 270 million acres of federal, Tribal trust, state, county, and private lands in 437 counties, and covers BLM- and BIA-administered surface lands and subsurface mineral estate. This included extensive collaboration with cooperating agencies and stakeholders to plan economic use of BLM- and BIA-administered lands, while conserving important natural and cultural resources. BLM seeks comments on the Coeur Rochester and Packard Mines project October 2019—The BLM, with assistance from EMPSi, has released the draft Coeur Rochester and Packard Mines Plan of Operations Amendment 11 EIS. The EIS assesses the expansion of silver mining operations at the existing Coeur Rochester and Packard Mines. Key issues analyzed in the EIS include hydrology, geochemistry, and cultural resources. The public comment period runs until December 2, 2019. Helping guide USFWS National Wildlife Refuge management September 2019—EMPSi is teaming with the US Fish and Wildlife Service Southeast Region to develop conservation assessments for National Wildlife Refuge Resources of Concern. The assessments will synthesize threats, conservation needs, and other information for 50 key plant and wildlife species and will inform comprehensive conservation plans that guide Southeast Region refuge management. Improving passage of Lahontan cutthroat trout on the Truckee River in Nevada September 2019—EMPSi joined the Bureau of Reclamation and its federal and state partners at Derby Dam to celebrate the start of a $23.3-million infrastructure project that promises great improvements for recovery of the threatened Lahontan cutthroat trout. EMPSi provided permitting for the Derby Dam Fish Screen Project, which will allow passage for this iconic species around the Derby Dam, and greatly improve access to historic spawning habitat in the Truckee River. Leading the way for riparian restoration in northern New Mexico August 2019—EMPSi is working with the Forest Service to develop a riparian, wetland, and aquatic habitat restoration toolbox that can be applied within the Cibola, Santa Fe, and Carson National Forests. As part of the process, EMPSi is preparing an Environmental Assessment (EA) and Biological Evaluation, and coordinating with the US Army Corps of Engineers and the New Mexico Environment Department. Ultimately, the toolbox will provide an efficient process for implementing projects that benefit watershed health, water quality, and recovery of threatened, endangered, and sensitive species. EMPSi opens a new office in Alaska! August 2019—EMPSi recently opened a new office in Anchorage. This strategic move allows EMPSi to continue improving services to address the unique challenges facing our clients in the Last Frontier. The depth of experience of the Anchorage staff ensures that EMPSi can provide its clients with sound and scientific management and deliverables in an ever-changing and developing regulatory environment. Improving water quality in the Colorado River July 2019—Under two new contracts, EMPSi is continuing its support of the Colorado River Basin Salinity Control Program. EMPSi is working with the Bureau of Reclamation to improve the Paradox Valley Unit, which annually removes and disposes of approximately 100,000 tons of naturally occurring salt from the Dolores River, thereby reducing salinity in the Colorado River and benefiting downstream users. What’s shaking at EMPSi July 2019—EMPSi is assisting the US Geological Survey to locate 250 earthquake seismic monitoring stations within 30 National Forests along the West Coast of the US. EMPSi is conducting a GIS constraints analysis to ensure locations avoid sensitive resources, including habitat for the northern spotted owl. The results of the analysis will inform biological analyses for biological assessments, biological evaluations, and NEPA documentation. Fuel breaks in the Great Basin: An effective tool to combat wildfires June 2019—The Department of the Interior’s (DOI) Bureau of Land Management (BLM) released a Draft Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for Fuel Breaks in the Great Basin for a 45-day public comment period. EMPSi assisted in preparing the EIS, which analyzes a system of up to 11,000 miles of strategically placed fuel breaks to control wildfires within a 223 million-acre area that includes portions of Idaho, Oregon, Washington, California, Nevada and Utah. Water planning services grow in Pacific Northwest with $30 million contract June 2019—EMPSi is excited to continue our work with the US Bureau of Reclamation under a new 5-year contract to provide environmental and cultural resources services for projects in Idaho, Washington, Oregon, Montana, Nevada, and Wyoming. Through this contract with Reclamation’s Pacific Northwest Region, we will support efforts such as drought planning, infrastructure design, and habitat restoration. Leading the way to resolve litigation on effects from mineral development May 2019—EMPSi collaborated with the BLM to develop two draft supplemental EISs and resource management plan amendments for the Buffalo and Miles City Field Offices to resolve recent litigation on downstream effects of coal development on climate change. Our innovative streamlining techniques allowed us to conduct detailed air and socioeconomic modeling and prepare the draft supplemental EISs ahead of schedule and in under 3 months. BLM seeks comments on Lewistown resource management plan May 2019—The BLM, with assistance from EMPSi, has released the draft Lewistown resource management plan and EIS, which will provide management guidance for the Lewistown Field Office and portions of the Butte Field Office in Montana. The plan addresses key issues, such as minerals and energy development, livestock grazing, and recreation, as well as completion of Wild and Scenic Rivers evaluation. Our natural resources services in the northeastern US keep expanding April 2019—The Forest Service has awarded EMPSi a five-year, $15 million Blanket Purchase Agreement contract for environmental analysis and decision-making activities across 17 national forests and one national tallgrass prairie within the eastern region (Region 9). The contract allows EMPSi to support the Forest Service in meeting their forest planning, NEPA, and public engagement needs. Vegetation management for the Forest Service in Lake George, CO April 2019—EMPSi is pleased to have assisted the US Forest Service in preparing an EA and specialist reports for fuels reduction and forest health near Lake George, CO on the Pike National Forest. The EA analyzed what vegetation treatments could improve forest health, while reducing the severity of fire impacts on watersheds or infrastructure and increasing public safety and potential successful fire suppression when necessary. Awards season comes to EMPSi! March 2019—EMPSi is honored to receive the Gold Medal achievement award from Environmental Business International (EBI). We also received an EBI award for natural resource management with our NPS invasive plant species plan for two national recreation areas, which will be a template for future nationwide plans.The Climate Change Business Journal further recognized EMPSi for continued growth in the sustainability, renewable energy, and climate resiliency markets. Managing predators to protect species of concern on the SE US coastline March 2019—EMPSi assisted the National Park Service and their Southeast Region parks in preparing a Predation Management Plan and programmatic EA, which were shared for public review in fall 2018 and a Finding of No Significant Impact was signed in March 2019. The plan examines options for protecting coastal species of concern, including listed shorebirds, sea turtles and beach mice from the threat of predators. EMPSi and Bureau of Reclamation win NAEP environmental award February 2019—EMPSi and Reclamation’s Albuquerque Office won the Environmental Excellence NEPA Planning Award from the National Association of Environmental Professionals (NAEP) for the Pojoaque Basin Regional Water System. The project will deliver reliable, safe drinking water to the Pueblos of San Ildefonso, Pojoaque, Nambé, and Tesuque, along with non-Tribal residents of Santa Fe County in northern New Mexico. Selected as the winner out of over 30 nominations, we look forward to accepting the award at the NAEP Annual Conference in May 2019. EMPSi continues to expand environmental services in Alaska February 2019—EMPSi has been awarded a contract from the BLM to develop a new Integrated Activity Plan (IAP) for the National Petroleum Reserve on Alaska’s North Slope. Through the IAP, EMPSi will assist the BLM in determining appropriate management to balance promotion of energy development while protecting important natural resources, such as caribou, polar bear, migratory birds, and subsistence activities. BLM and EMPSi to analyze energy-related actions in Montana and Wyoming January 2019—EMPSi will employ its experience in issue-based analyses to assist the BLM in developing supplemental EISs and resource management plan amendments for the Buffalo and Miles City Field Offices. The analysis is fast-tracked based on a court order and will focus on downstream emissions, climate change, social values, economics, and environmental justice impacts from the coal and fluid minerals programs. Archived News Email us at contact@empsi.com © Environmental Management and Planning Solutions, Inc.