2026-8-24_CDS_SS_Briefings (2) - Laserfiche WebLink

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• If it was evaluated,why it was rejected; • If it was not evaluated, why does it not constitute a reasonable alternative or management approach warranting consideration; • What evidence demonstrates that a permanent closure is currently necessary; and • What evidence demonstrates that the same wildlife and public-safety objectives could not be accomplished through renewable, time-limited closure coupled with monitoring and adaptive management. Under 7 CFR § lb.5(c)(2), an EA must address the proposed action, environmental impacts, and, where applicable, alternatives. The Draft EA should provide a clear explanation of the basis for selecting a permanent closure rather than the temporary closure identified in the public notice. 4. The Draft FONSI and Draft Decision Notice should be completed and revised after these issues are resolved. The Draft FONSI includes incomplete template language under"Selected Action,"including direction to "specify"the proposed action or selected alternative and to describe modifications or mitigations, if any. The County recognizes that the FONSI and Decision Notice are drafts. However, these incomplete sections reinforce the need to resolve the more fundamental question of whether the decision will approve a temporary or permanent closure. Under 7 CFR § lb.6, a FONSI must document the reasons for the responsible official's determination that the proposed action or selected alternative will not have a reasonably foreseeable significant impact. The final FONSI and Decision Notice should clearly identify the action selected, its duration, its geographic scope, and any applicable mitigation,monitoring, or adaptive-management provisions. 5. The Draft EA and FONSI should clearly analyze and disclose the closure scope and effects at Keechelus Lake. The Draft EA states that the closure does not include developed facilities, open trails, or open roads. However, the Draft EA and accompanying maps appear to include a substantial portion of Keechelus Lake, extending up to approximately 1,000 feet from the shoreline along 1-90. Keechelus Lake is a significant public recreation resource. Although it is not a trail,road, or developed facility, it supports boating, fishing, paddling, swimming, shoreline access,hunting, winter recreation, and other public uses. Recreationists may also use the exposed lakebed when reservoir levels are drawn down. The County request clarification regarding whether the closure includes: • The water surface; • Submerged lands; • The dry lakebed exposed by reservoir drawdown; • The shoreline; or