SL2_SOW_ATCH E_DAF NEPA PROC_MAR2026.pdf

Department of the Air Force National Environmental Policy Act Implementing Procedures

PART 0—PURPOSE AND POLICY

Part 0.1 Purpose and policy.

Part 0.2 Applicability.

Part 0.1 Purpose and policy.

The purpose of this guidance is to integrate the procedures under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA, 42 United States Code (U.S.C.) §§ 4321-4347) into the decision-making process for the Department of the Air Force (DAF), including United States Air Force (USAF) and the United States Space Force (USSF). These Department of the Air Force National Environmental Policy Act Implementing Procedures (“DAF NEPA Procedures”) are intended to achieve and maintain compliance with NEPA and the Department of Defense National Environmental Policy Act Implementing Procedures (“DoD NEPA Procedures”), 30 June 2025.

The DoD NEPA Procedures and the DAF NEPA Procedures must be used together to comply with NEPA and complete the Environmental Impact Analysis Process (EIAP). The DAF NEPA Procedures interrelate with a variety of processes within the DAF that include, but are not limited to, strategic basing, installation planning and development, airspace and range management, weapons system acquisition and lifecycle sustainment, and test and evaluation. Further references are in Attachment 1.

Part 0.2 Applicability.

(a) Applicability. The DAF NEPA Procedures provide for environmental impact analysis both within the United States (U.S.) and abroad. The DAF NEPA Procedures apply to USAF, USSF, United States Air Force Reserve Command (AFRC) and Air National Guard (ANG) entities within the United States and its territories and possessions worldwide unless otherwise specified. The primary procedures for environmental impact analysis of actions outside the United States are accomplished in accordance with Executive Order (E.O.) 12114, Environmental Effects Abroad of Major Federal Actions, 32 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 187, Environmental Effects Abroad of Major Department of Defense Actions, and DAF Instruction (DAFI) 32-1015, Integrated Installation Planning.

(b) Authority. NEPA imposes certain procedural requirements on the exercise of DAF’s existing legal authority in relevant circumstances. Nothing contained in the DAF NEPA Procedures is intended or should be construed to limit the DAF’s other authorities or legal responsibilities.

PART 1—NEPA AND AGENCY PLANNING

Part 1.1 Determining when NEPA review is required.

Part 1.2 Determining the appropriate level of NEPA review.

Part 1.3 NEPA and agency decision making.

Part 1.4 Categorical exclusions.

Part 1.5 Environmental assessments.

Part 1.6 Findings of no significant impact.

Part 1.7 Lead and cooperating agencies.

Part 1.8 Notices of intent, scoping, planning, tiering, and deviations.

Part 1.1 Determining when NEPA review is required.

The DAF will determine whether NEPA review is required, consistent with the DoD NEPA Procedures Part 1.1.

Part 1.2 Determining the appropriate level of NEPA review.

(a) If DAF determines under Part 1.1 that NEPA applies to a proposed action, the DAF will determine the appropriate level of NEPA review consistent with the DoD NEPA Procedures Part 1.2.

(b) To inform decision-making, the DAF will initiate EIAP planning early, considering the scope of the proposed action and its effects, consultation requirements, license/permit needs, and whether aspects of the action are non-discretionary. The DAF will consider connected actions, as defined in/accordance with the DoD NEPA Procedures Part 6.1(d).

(c) Documenting a proposed action on the appropriate form begins the EIAP process and ensures proper project planning and scoping. The Proponent initiates the EIAP via DAF Form 813, Request for Environmental Impact Analysis, when required, to formally begin the EIAP, and to substantiate the use of Categorical Exclusions (CATEXs), Records of Environmental Consideration (RECs), Environmental Assessments (EAs), and Environmental Impact Statements (EISs). See Air Force Civil Engineer Center (AFCEC) Guidance for Air Force Form 813 Development to Support NEPA Project Execution for more information.

(d) Planning Requirements for the Environmental Impact Analysis Process (PREIAP). If a CATEX does not apply, the DAF utilizes information obtained during PREIAP to assist in the determination of appropriate level of NEPA review. As part of PREIAP, the DAF (Proponent, Environmental Planning Function (EPF), and Interdisciplinary Team (IDT)) will begin internal scoping; develop the initial Description of Proposed Action and Alternatives (DOPAA); identify applicable requirements and existing data gaps, Proponents, EPF, and the IDT will evaluate and initiate consultations, as needed prior to publication of the Notice of Intent (NOI).

(1) Purpose and Need (P&N). The Proponent develops the P&N (Part 2.2) to identify reasonable alternatives and support development of the DOPAA. The purpose statement defines the overall goals or objectives to be accomplished by the Proposed Action, and the need statement explains the specific problems, deficiencies, or opportunities that the Proposed Action will address.

(2) Initial DOPAA. The Proponent develops the initial DOPAA as part of the DAF Form 813, which includes a description of the proposed action and reasonable alternatives to the proposed action based on the underlying P&N.

(3) Identify data gaps. The DAF will leverage existing data from the NEPA Repository1, acquisitions, and other environmental documents and make use of government furnished information in contracting to ensure timeliness, efficiency, minimize redundancy.

(4) Early initial scoping. As part of early internal scoping, the EPF identifies requirements, data gaps, and existing analyses required by other statutes and regulations.

(5) Significance determination. The DAF will examine both the context and intensity of the proposed action when determining significance. The DAF will objectively analyze effects and not offset adverse effects with other beneficial effects to determine significance.

Part 1.3 NEPA and agency decision making.

(a) The DAF will follow a decision-making process consistent with the DoD NEPA Procedures Part 1.3.

(b) Key milestones. The DAF sets target dates for key milestones for proposed actions once it determines the appropriate level of NEPA review consistent with the DoD NEPA Procedures Part

1.2. The DAF identifies the sequence of key milestones and integrates NEPA review with other planning and authorization processes early in the EIAP to avoid delays and address potential conflicts.

(c) The Proponent coordinates with the EPF to:

(1) Initiate internal scoping via the PREIAP for the proposed action [Part 1.2(d)(4)].

(2) Make environmental documents available for DAF decision making.

(d) Organizational relationships. The DAF implements NEPA through a structured framework that ensures informed decision making across all Command levels. Detailed roles and responsibilities are provided in Part 4.4.

(e) DOPAA. The Proponent works with the EPF and IDT to complete the DOPAA. The DAF will:

(1) Review the DOPAA to ensure that the proposed action and reasonable alternatives meet the stated P&N and that the rationale for eliminating alternatives from further study is discussed.

(2) Not limit consideration of alternatives to those favored by the Proponent or exclude the identification or analysis of reasonable alternatives.

1 DAF NEPA Repository, https://usaf.dps.mil/teams/eDASH

(3) Fully stabilize2 the DOPAA for the proposed action and alternatives as early as practicable but not later than the completion of early internal scoping. For an EIS, stabilize the DOPAA prior to publishing the NOI; for an EA, stabilize the DOPAA prior to issuance of project scoping letters or publications of early public notice. Refer to Part 2.2(c) for any changes to the stabilized DOPAA for an EIS.

(f) DAF analysis of proposed action and alternatives. The DAF will:

(1) Identify and analyze reasonably foreseeable environmental effects of a proposed action and alternative(s), to include the no-action alternative. Any protective measures that avoid, minimize, or compensate for adverse effects and that the DAF is required to implement or the DAF determines will be implemented are considered part of the proposed action or alternative(s). Protective measures, including Best Management Practices (BMPs) and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), are specifically identified and analyzed as part of the proposed action or alternatives.

(2) Analyze appropriate mitigation measures (Part 4.3).

(g) Draft environmental reviews will be prepared concurrently and integrated with environmental analyses required by other Federal environmental laws and Executive Orders (E.O.s) consistent with Part 3.8 and DAFMAN 32-7003, and will consult as early as practicable with, and obtain comments from, any Federal agency with jurisdiction by law or special expertise3 in addition to tribal governments.

(h) Programming and Funding. Programming and funding are required for EISs and EAs.

(1) Proponents.

(i) The Proponent is responsible for programming all EIAP requirements [Part 4.4 (l)] including planning surveys and budget overruns.4

(ii) The Proponent will fund all EIAP requirements that have not been programmed for funding. The Proponent will also fund, manage, and ensure completion of mitigation measures and monitoring requirements identified during the environmental review process.

(i) Non-DAF Entities on DAF Installations. Host tenant support agreements must include procedures for host oversight of tenant-funded EIAP and reimbursement of host EIAP costs. Non- DAF entities are responsible for funding EIAP requirements under DAF supervision (Part 5.1).

(j) Administrative record. At the earliest possible time, the DAF initiates an administrative record as part of environmental review. The administrative record is a comprehensive, organized compilation of all documents and information the DAF considered when making a decision. The

2 The DOPAA is stabilized when it is detailed enough to be coordinated with and approved to by the Proponent for public scoping, as applicable.

3 42 U.S.C. § 4332(2) 4 Proponents may program through the AFCEC Environmental Quality (EQ) programming process for non-strategic basing environmental reviews.

administrative record is developed over the course of the EIAP. Record content includes, but should not be limited to:

(1) The determination and rationale for all decisions guiding the development of the analysis as well as the final decision document.

(2) All factual, technical, and scientific material or data considered in making the decision.

(3) All public comments and responses related to environmental documents.

(4) Any updates or supplemental information developed after an environmental document is finalized.

Part 1.4 Categorical exclusions.

(a) The DAF will determine the applicability of CATEXs to appropriate proposed actions, consistent with the DoD NEPA Procedures Part 1.4.

(b) CATEXs available for implementation are those established or adopted by the DAF; those listed in the DoD NEPA Procedures Appendix A; and those that are covered by another agency’s CATEX determination under the DoD NEPA Procedures Part 1.4(f). To use a CATEX, the DAF will:

(1) Consider whether extraordinary circumstances apply when analyzing proposed actions.

(2) Document application of CATEXs on a DAF Form 813 and the consideration of extraordinary circumstances, when required.5

Part 1.5 Environmental assessments.

(a) EAs must be completed within one year of the DAF providing notice to external, i.e., non- DAF, stakeholders, of DAF’s intent to prepare an EA via the issuance of project scoping letters or publications of early public notice. Activities performed in the PREIAP do not trigger the start of an EA.

(b) The DAF will prepare EAs to include the elements, scope of analysis, page limits, and deadlines, consistent with the DoD NEPA Procedures Part 1.5.

(c) The DAF EPF supports the Proponent in preparing a concise EA that provides sufficient evidence and analysis to determine whether to prepare an EIS or a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI). Every DAF EA will lead to a FONSI, a recommendation to prepare an EIS, or a recommendation to take no action on the proposal. Recommendations to prepare an EIS are made to the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Energy, Installations, and Environment (SAF/IE) for non-weapons systems acquisition or to the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition, 5 Other funding and project request forms such as DD Form 1391, Military Construction Project Data, and Air Force Form 332, Base Civil Engineer Work Request, may document a CATEX determination, as appropriate and in accordance with applicable instructions governing these forms when a DAF Form 813 is not required. Such documentation should state how the project meets the criteria for the applicable CATEX.

Technology and Logistics (SAF/AQ) or Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Space Acquisition and Integration (SAF/SQ) for weapons systems acquisition.

(d) Draft EAs and draft FONSIs are generally not published for public review and comment. The DAF may publish a draft EA and a draft FONSI if the Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Installations (SAF/IEI) or Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Science, Technology, Maturation & Logistics (SAF/AQT) (or SAF/SQ equivalent) determines, in their sole discretion, that it will help fulfill the DAF’s responsibilities under NEPA. SAF/IEI or SAF/AQT (or SAF/SQ equivalent) will determine the length of the public comment period.

(1) If a draft EA will not be published and the proposed action or an alternative will affect a wetland or floodplain, DAF will publish an NOI to prepare the EA. To comply with requirements of various E.O.s, the NOI will include information regarding the potential impacts to wetlands and floodplains and request public input.

(e) EAs for proposed actions that may affect areas beyond a single Installation may require approval from the Major Command (MAJCOM) or United States Space Force Mission Sustainment Directorate (SF/S4O) level or higher authority, to include FONSI signature.

(f) EAs and FONSIs of potential special interest, controversy, or broad concern should be provided, after informal consultation, to Air Force Headquarters, Directorate of Civil Engineers (AF/A4C). If applicable, an informal HQ DAF advisory coordination and/or review should occur at the time the draft undergoes initial EPF review. The EAs and FONSIs of Special Interest may be referred for a more substantive AF/A4C review or elevation to SAF/IE, SAF/AQ, or SAF/SQ office for approval and signature, as directed [Part 4.4(b)(2)(iii)].

(g) The EPF will document and analyze the results of consultations in the EA and FONSI.

(h) The Proponent and EPF will include analysis of proposed mitigation measures (Part 4.3). If mitigation measures do not reduce significant effects to a level where a mitigated FONSI may be used, the Proponent must recommend SAF/IE, SAF/AQ or SAF/SQ prepare an EIS or take no action on the proposal.

Part 1.6 Findings of no significant impact.

(a) The DAF will prepare and publish FONSIs consistent with the DoD NEPA Procedures Part 1.6.

(b) If the DAF determines a FONSI is appropriate:

(1) The Proponent and EPF will prepare a concise FONSI, identifying any mitigation measures that will be implemented (Part 4.3) and forward the unsigned FONSI to a DAF responsible official (RO) for signature.

(i) The DAF will determine whether the proposed action will occur in a floodplain or wetland in accordance with DAF Manual (DAFMAN) 32-7003, Environmental Conservation, and E.O. 11988, Floodplain Management, and E.O. 11990, Protection of

Wetlands. When there is no practicable alternative to taking an action in a floodplain or wetland, obtain approval from the Civil Engineer at the MAJCOM, Direct Reporting Unit (DRU), NGB, or from the SF/S4O as appropriate.

(2) The signed FONSI will be published with the final EA on a DAF-approved public website.

(c) All EA/FONSIs require approval by the Civil Engineer at the MAJCOM, DRU, NGB, or from the SF/S4O, as appropriate, for: (1) non-DAF proposals that require a DAF decision, such as use of DAF property for highways, space ports, and joint-use proposal; and/or (2) where mitigation to insignificance is accomplished in lieu of initiating an EIS.

Part 1.7 Lead and cooperating agencies.

(a) The DAF will address lead and cooperating agencies (CAs), consistent with the DoD NEPA Procedures Part 1.7.

(b) Determination of lead agency role. If a DAF action involves activities or decisions undertaken by other Federal agencies, DAF and the other Federal agencies will establish, in writing, which will be the lead agency or joint lead agencies.

(c) DAF as lead agency. The DAF will:

(1) Identify and invite each CA to participate in writing at the earliest practicable time. For an EIS, the CA invitation is signed by SAF/IEI or SAF/AQT (or SAF/SQ equivalent). For an EA, the CA invitation is signed by the RO, no lower than lead MAJCOM/Field Command (FLDCOM) (e.g., O-6/GS-15 equivalent) level.

(2) Consult with AF/A4C when CAs are being considered for an EIS prior to inviting a CA to participate.

(3) Supervise the preparation of a single, coordinated environmental document, which meets DAF EIAP requirements, and will be used in the decision-making process and made a part of the administrative record.

(d) DAF as CA. AF/A4C will review and coordinate the process when DAF is asked to participate as a CA for non-DAF actions where the DAF has jurisdiction or special expertise. All requests for the DAF to participate as a CA will be forwarded to AF/A4C for formal response on behalf of the DAF. As the CA, the DAF will participate in the scoping process at the earliest practicable time and, when appropriate, may jointly issue environmental documents with the lead agency.

Part 1.8 Notices of intent, scoping, planning, tiering, and deviations.

(a) The DAF will conduct scoping, NOI, and tiering, consistent with the DoD NEPA Procedures Part 1.8.

(b) NOI. The DAF will publish an NOI to prepare an EIS only after the proposal is sufficiently developed through the DOPAA [Part 1.3(e)(3)] to ensure it addresses the full scope of issues to provide the public opportunity to comment.6 Prior to publishing an NOI, SAF/IEI or SAF/AQT (or SAF/SQ equivalent) will send CA requests, and the EPF will develop the schedule in consultation with each CA. The EPF submits the EIS NOI to AF/A4C for SAF/IEI or SAF/AQT (or SAF/SQ equivalent) review and approval. The NOI will be published in the Federal Register (FR) and, if for an EIS, will include a request for public comment.

(c) Public Scoping.

(1) DAF may provide, for public and agency comment, detailed information about the proposed action, alternatives, and potential environmental impacts. Regarding the opportunity for public comment, DAF will consider whether there will be an opportunity for public comment later during the process.

(2) If DAF provides for public scoping, the EPF will send EIS scoping materials to AF/A4C for S&P review in planning for and prior to public release.

(3) If the DAF determines that a scoping meeting is appropriate, it must be coordinated and approved no lower than SAF/IEI or SAF/AQT (or SAF/SQ equivalent).

(4) If the DAF determines that public scoping meetings are appropriate, the DAF may conduct such meetings using electronic means of communication to engage with the public. Such meetings are commonly referred to as virtual meetings.

(d) Tiering. Tiering will be employed to eliminate repetitive discussions; reduce duplication and paperwork; and focus on new issues, effects, and alternatives presented in the proposed action as appropriate for EAs and EISs to the maximum extent possible.

(e) Deviation. The DAF may only deviate from the DAF NEPA Procedures in unusual circumstances and when a proposed action is unlikely to have reasonably foreseeable significant environmental effects. Proposed deviations: shall be consistent with NEPA's purposes, will not eliminate consideration of environmental factors, and will substitute suitable alternative procedures that will align with the proposed action's timeline. Lead MAJCOM/FLDCOM senior leadership should submit written deviation requests to SAF/IEI or SAF/AQT (or SAF/SQ equivalent) for approval, describing the requested deviations as related to the original P&N, DOPAA, and other related issues.

PART 2—ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENTS

Part 2.1 Preparation of environmental impact statements.

Part 2.2 Purpose and need.

Part 2.3 Analysis within the environmental impact statement.

Part 2.4 Page limits.

642 U.S.C. § 4336a(c)

Part 2.5 Deadlines.

Part 2.6 Publication of environmental impact statements.

Part 2.1 Preparation of environmental impact statements.

(a) The DAF will prepare EISs, consistent with the DoD NEPA Procedures Part 2.1.

(b) Preparation of an EIS may not proceed until SAF/IE, SAF/AQ or SAF/SQ determination that the DAF will proceed with an EIS.

Part 2.2 Purpose and need.

(a) The DAF will address the P&N for the proposed action, consistent with the DoD NEPA Procedures Part 2.2.

(b) The Proponent develops and records the P&N statement on DAF Form 813 consistent with Part 1.2(c).

(c) Any changes to the stabilized DOPAA, other than changes due to comments received from review of the NOI (unless scoping has taken place), require MAJCOM/FLDCOM RO approval and a signed memorandum to SAF/IEI indicating the change and identifying any schedule or cost impacts.

Part 2.3 Analysis within the environmental impact statement.

The DAF will conduct analysis within the EIS, consistent with the DoD NEPA Procedures Part 2.3.

Part 2.4 Page limits.

(a) The DAF will follow the EIS page limit requirements, consistent with the DoD NEPA Procedures Part 2.4.

(b) The DAF Lead Command Proponent first-level General Officer (GO) or Senior Executive Service (SES) may request in writing to SAF/IEI to increase the page limit (up to 300 pages) prior to issuing the NOI, when necessary.

(c) The DAF EIS appendices will be concise, efficient, and consist of:

(1) Materials that are not incorporated by reference.

(2) Materials relevant to the decision to be made.

(3) For draft EISs, where applicable, all concise comments and summaries of voluminous comments received during the scoping process that identify alternatives, information, and analyses for DAF consideration.

(4) For final EISs, where applicable, summaries of comments received on the draft EIS and DAF responses.

Part 2.5 Deadlines.

(a) EISs must be completed within two years of the date that the NOI was published on a DAF-approved public website or in the FR, if applicable. Activities performed in the PREIAP do not trigger the start of an EIS.

(b) The DAF will prepare EISs to meet statutory deadlines, consistent with the DoD NEPA Procedures Part 2.5.

(c) The Proponent tracks the progress of the EIS in the DAF-approved NEPA tracking system on eDASH7 and documents the EIS start and completion dates.

(d) If additional time is needed for an EIS following applicant consultation, the DAF Lead Command Proponent (GO/SES) may request an extension from SAF/IEI in writing. SAF/IEI may grant the necessary EIS proposal time extension.

Part 2.6 Publication of environmental impact statements.

(a) The DAF will publish the EIS, consistent with the DoD NEPA Procedures Part 2.6.

(b) The EPF staffs the interim final EIS (and/or if applicable, draft EIS) to AF/A4C for HQ DAF coordination of S&P review.

(c) If SAF/IEI determines that the DAF will publish a draft EIS, the public comment period will not exceed 30 days from the date of publication notification, unless otherwise extended by SAF/IEI. Public meetings or hearings are not required for a draft or final EIS but may be held if approved by SAF/IEI.

(d) The DAF will consult with and obtain comments of the regional U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) office (for Clean Air Act8) and any Federal agency which has jurisdiction by law or special expertise, even if not a cooperating agency, ensuring copies of the EIS are made available per NEPA § 102(2)(C).

(e) The DAF electronically publishes draft and final EISs and supporting documentation on a DAF-approved website. The EPF ensures that EIS publication is accompanied by local notifications that may include a press release and announcements through other media sources, as appropriate. If SAF/IEI determines the DAF will publish a draft EIS, then the DAF will publish a Notice of Availability (NOA) for the draft EIS in the FR through the EPA filing process. The DAF will publish an NOA for a final EIS in the FR through the EPA filing process.

PART 3—EFFICIENT ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEWS

Part 3.1 Programmatic environmental documents and reviews.

Part 3.2 Reliance on existing environmental documents.

Part 3.3 Publishing pre-decisional environmental documents.

7 DAF NEPA Project Tracker. https://usaf.dps.mil/teams/10627 8 42 U.S.C. § 7609

Part 3.4 Combining documents.

Part 3.5 Incorporation by reference.

Part 3.6 Supplemental environmental documents.

Part 3.7 Integrity and completeness of information.

Part 3.8 Integrating NEPA with other environmental requirements.

Part 3.9 Elimination of duplication with State, Tribal, and local procedures.

Part 3.10 Proposals for regulations.

Part 3.11 Unique identification numbers.

Part 3.12 Emergencies.

Part 3.13 Classified action.

Part 3.14 Requirements for analysis abroad.

Part 3.1 Programmatic environmental documents and reviews.

(a) The DAF will establish, revise, and make use of programmatic environmental reviews consistent with the DoD NEPA Procedures Part 3.1.

(b) The DAF conducts programmatic NEPA reviews when:

(1) Developing resource allocation plans that guide alternative uses or set priorities for future resource allocation,

(2) Adopting programs with defined objectives for specific activities, or

(3) Approving multiple temporally or spatially connected actions that involve a series of associated or subsequent decisions.

(c) DAF programmatic EIAP analyses will address environmental issues related to implementing policies, plans, programs, or suites of projects, framing the scope of subsequent specific actions grouped by location, similarities, or technology. DAF may combine programmatic and project-specific proposals into a single document when broad program decisions require rapid implementation of related near-term projects.

(d) Following the same scoping process as non-programmatic reviews, DAF programmatic reviews will:

(1) Support a program or plan, especially when decisions are based on tiered analyses, particularly for facilities and land use planning, multistage actions, and mitigation measures at an ecosystem or regional level.

(2) Evaluate proposals geographically or by stage of technological development when preparing statements on broad actions, including proposals with CAs.

(3) Expedite decision-making processes for future proposed actions.

(e) If it is determined that an existing EIAP document does not fully cover the proposed action and it is not appropriate to tier, a determination is made on whether to supplement the predicate document or prepare a new document.

Part 3.2 Reliance on existing environmental documents.

(a) The DAF will rely on existing environmental documents or portions thereof in accordance with the procedures stipulated in the DoD NEPA Procedures Part 3.2.

(b) The DAF may use existing environmental documents and related information for EIAP reviews when they are appropriate and relevant to the proposed action.

(c) The DAF will utilize NEPA documentation from its NEPA Repository9 and may adopt NEPA documentation from non-DAF entities.

(d) If major steps to advance the proposal have not occurred within five years from the date of the final EIS approval, revaluation of the documentation should be accomplished to ensure its continued validity. The DAF may rely on environmental documents that are more than five years old if the DAF reevaluates the analysis and the underlying assumptions and concludes the analysis remains valid.

Part 3.3 Publishing pre-decisional environmental documents.

(a) The DAF may publish pre-decisional draft environmental documents or portions thereof consistent with the procedures stipulated in the DoD NEPA Procedures Part 3.3, Air Force Instruction (AFI) 35-101, Public Affairs Operations, and DoD Instruction (DoDI) 5200.48, Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).

(b) Draft EAs and draft EISs are no longer required to be made available for public review and comment. The DAF may publish a draft EA or draft EIS for public comment if SAF/IEI or SAF/AQT (or SAF/SQ equivalent) determines, in their sole discretion, that it will help fulfill the DAF’s responsibilities under NEPA. SAF/IEI or SAF/AQT (or SAF/SQ equivalent) will determine the length of the public comment period.

(c) Publishing a draft environmental document may be appropriate when there is significant public interest, the proposed action involves a novel science, it is a case of first impression, there is a likelihood of litigation based on an Operations and International Law (JAO) Directorate, Environmental Law and Litigation Division (AF/JAOE) assessment, or publication of a draft document is required by a CA’s NEPA procedures.

(d) If SAF/IEI determines that public meetings or hearings on a draft EIS are appropriate, the DAF may conduct such meetings or hearings. Public meetings and hearings may be conducted using electronic means of communication to engage with the public.

Part 3.4 Combining documents.

9 DAF NEPA Repository. https://usaf.dps.mil/teams/eDASH

(a) The DAF will combine environmental documents or portions thereof in accordance with the procedures stipulated in the DoD NEPA Procedures Part 3.4 and (for example) DAFI 32-1015.

(b) To the fullest extent possible, the DAF will combine environmental analyses prepared under NEPA with interrelated plans, actions, rules, or amendments into a single consolidated document supporting broad decisions and subsequent resource use.

(c) The EPF will integrate comprehensive planning with EIAP requirements by combining environmental analysis with other related documentation when practicable.

Part 3.5 Incorporation by reference.

(a) The DAF will incorporate environmental documents or portions thereof in accordance with the procedures stipulated in the DoD NEPA Procedures Part 3.5.

(b) The DAF will not incorporate material by reference that the DAF deems not reasonably available for public inspection or not in final form.

Part 3.6 Supplemental environmental documents.

(a) The DAF will prepare supplemental environmental documents in accordance with the DoD NEPA Procedures Part 3.6.

(b) The Proponent will fund required supplemental actions, analysis, and updates to environmental documents.

(c) The Proponent and EPF will use DAF Form 813 to request reevaluations or supplemental environmental analysis for the proposed action.

Part 3.7 Integrity and completeness of information.

(a) The DAF will determine when to undertake new scientific and technical research consistent with the DoD NEPA Procedures Part 3.7. In cases where information is incomplete or unavailable, the DAF will acknowledge these limitations within environmental documents.

(b) The DAF will meet integrity and completeness requirements and make use of reliable data and resources in NEPA review, including, but not limited to:

(1) Weapons systems data developed in the acquisition process that will be carried forward for use in NEPA documents over the lifecycle of the system, consistent with Air Force Materiel Command Instruction (AFMCI) 63-1201, Integrated Life Cycle Systems Engineering and Technical Management, DoDI 5000.88, Engineering of Defense Systems, and Military Standard (MIL-STD)-882E with Change 1 on 27 September 2023, Department of Defense Standard Practice: System Safety.

(2) Airspace and range proposals.

(i) For airspace and range proposals, the Proponent will develop a training resource requirement statement (e.g., Test and Training Space Needs Statement (T/TSNS)) and adhere to the concept development process outlined in DAFMAN 13-201, Airspace

Management, and Air Force Manual (AFMAN) 13-212v1, Range Planning and Operations.

(ii) If SAF/IEI approves continued development of the proposed concept, the DAF will use the adjudicated training resource requirement statement T/TSNS as the foundation for developing the DOPAA on DAF Form 813 as described in Part 1.2.

Part 3.8 Integrating NEPA with other environmental requirements.

(a) The DAF will prepare environmental documents concurrently and integrated with analyses and related surveys and studies required by other Federal statutes consistent with the DoD NEPA Procedures Part 3.8.

Part 3.9 Elimination of duplication with State, Tribal, and local procedures.

(a) The DAF will complete efficient environmental review processes through cooperation with State, Tribal, and local agencies consistent with the DoD NEPA Procedures Part 3.9.

Part 3.10 Proposals for regulations.

(a) When a proposed action is the promulgation of a rule or regulation, the DAF will proceed consistent with the DoD NEPA Procedures Part 3.10.

Part 3.11 Unique identification numbers.

(a) The DAF will provide a unique identification number (IDN) for tracking environmental documents consistent with the DoD NEPA Procedures Part 3.11.

(b) The DAF provides unique IDNs for EAs and EISs to help the public and agencies track the progress of EAs and EISs for proposed actions as they move through the NEPA process. The DAF will reference this unique IDN in all environmental documents associated with an EA or EIS to include mitigation plans [Part 4.3(b)(1)]. The DAF applies unique IDNs to final EA and EIS files, along with the signed FONSI and Record of Decision (ROD). Unique IDNs are uploaded to an appropriate DAF-approved website and made a part of the administrative record.

Part 3.12 Emergencies.

(a) In the event an emergency makes it necessary to take an action with reasonably foreseeable significant environmental effects without following the DoD NEPA Procedures, the DAF will follow procedures stipulated in the DoD NEPA Procedures Part 3.12.

(b) Alternative Arrangements. Emergencies do not exempt the DAF from complying with NEPA but do allow for immediate emergency response while developing and completing alternative EIAP arrangements for NEPA compliance.

(1) When responding to such emergencies, the DAF first determines if the action is a major Federal action subject to NEPA, determines the appropriate level of NEPA review for the emergency action, then assesses whether there is sufficient time to follow standard environmental review requirements or if the situation warrants establishing alternative arrangements for compliance.

(2) The DAF will consider whether there is sufficient time to follow NEPA review procedures when responding to immediate threats to human health or safety. The Proponent must promptly notify and consult with AF/A4C who will coordinate with SAF/IEI about alternative arrangements for compliance with NEPA.

(3) Consultations are based on emergency-specific facts, circumstances, and duration when there is not sufficient time to follow standard NEPA procedures. However, immediate notification is not required where emergency actions must be taken without delay.

Coordination notification will take place as soon as practicable.

(c) NEPA Reviews for Emergencies.

(1) CATEX. The DAF should consider whether a CATEX is appropriate for an emergency action.

(2) EA. For emergency actions likely to have less than significant or uncertain environmental effects, a concise and timely EA may be appropriate. Timely development of a concise EA for a proposed emergency action eliminates the need for alternative arrangements. If a concise EA cannot be prepared in a timely manner, Proponents and EPFs will consult with AF/A4C and then coordinate with SAF/IEI to determine alternative arrangements for NEPA compliance.

The DAF will notify affected Congressional delegations, the public, relevant agencies, and Tribes, as appropriate.

(3) EIS. Where emergency circumstances make it necessary to take an action with reasonably foreseeable significant effects without observing the provisions of these procedures, AF/A4C, after coordination with SAF/IEI, will consult with the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) about alternative arrangements for compliance with NEPA § 102(2)(C).10 SAF/IE is the signature authority for EIS-level NEPA requiring alternative emergency arrangements.

Part 3.13 Classified action.

(a) The DAF employs classified action guidance provided in the DoD NEPA Procedures Part 1.3(g) and DoDI 5200.48.

(b) Classification of an action for national defense or foreign policy purposes does not exempt the action from NEPA compliance. The DAF will prepare, safeguard, and disseminate environmental documents according to established classified information procedures. Classified environmental documents should be prepared with the expectation of possible future declassification. The DAF will handle information as follows:

(1) When a DAF Proponent determines environmental documents will contain classified information, the EPF will notify SAF/IEI through AF/A4C. The EPF may submit the notice at

10 42 U.S.C. § 4332(2)(C) any security classification level needed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the issue(s). SAF/IEI or SAF/AQT (or SAF/SQ equivalent) are the approval authorities for classified environmental analyses with support from AF/A4C, the Deputy General Counsel for Installations, Energy, and Environment (SAF/GCN), and other HQ DAF and MAJCOM/FLDCOM staff elements.

(2) For classified proposed actions, the DAF will maintain environmental documents under applicable classification procedures and potentially obtain reviews from agencies with jurisdiction by law or special expertise to the extent consistent with security requirements.

(c) The original classification authority may assist appropriate DAF and other agency personnel in obtaining necessary security clearances to access relevant documents for review and comment.

(d) The Proponent and EPF ensure decision makers use classified environmental documents and annexes in informing the decision-making process in the same manner as unclassified actions.

(e) Although not classified information, the DAF safeguards CUI in accordance with DoDI

5200.48. CUI from underlying documents that is relied upon in environmental documents must be identified and controlled until authorized for public release in accordance with the DoDI and other authorities after the S&P review, if applicable.

Part 3.14 Requirements for analysis abroad.

(a) Generally, the DAF will follow procedures detailed in 32 CFR § 187, providing comprehensive policies, definitions, and procedures for implementing E.O. 12114. The DAF will use the DAF Form 813 for EIAP abroad [Part 1.2(c)]. Detailed requirements for EIAP abroad can be found in

DAFI 32-1015.

(b) General exemptions specific to actions abroad are in 32 CFR § 187. The EPF or other decision-maker forwards requests for additional exemption determinations for actions abroad to AF/A4C with a justification letter.

PART 4—AGENCY DECISION MAKING

Part 4.1 Decision documents.

Part 4.2 Filing requirements.

Part 4.3 Mitigation measures and implementing the decision.

Part 4.4 Roles and responsibilities.

Part 4.1 Decision documents.

(a) At the time of the DAF’s decision on a proposed action, the DAF may prepare and publish a concise decision document consistent with the DoD NEPA Procedures Part 4.1.

(b) ROD. The ROD reflects the DAF decision that is informed by consideration of the final EIS and the views of Federal, State, Tribal, and local governments and the public.

(1) The ROD will be staffed for signature prior to the anticipated publication of the final EIS

NOA.

(2) The EPF will formally coordinate and staff the draft ROD through the Proponent MAJCOM or SF/S4O (for Space Force actions) chain of command to AF/A4C for HQ DAF S&P review.

(3) AF/A4C will formally staff and coordinate the final ROD for SAF/IE approval and signature.

(4) The EPF will ensure publication of a final EIS and ROD on a publicly available website and coordinate with AF/A4C to submit the NOA for the final ROD to the FR for publication to ensure notification, excluding classified information.

(5) The ROD will identify proposed mitigations analyzed in the EIS that will be implemented as part of the DAF decision, consistent with Part 4.3.

Part 4.2 Filing requirements.

(a) The DAF will comply with filing requirements consistent with the DoD NEPA Procedures Part 4.2.

(b) The EPF will provide the NOA and final EIS to AF/A4C for filing with the EPA.

(c) The final EIS will be made available on a publicly accessible DAF-approved website.

Part 4.3 Mitigation measures and implementing the decision.

(a) Mitigation measures and implementation. Mitigation measures must be clearly identified in environmental documents, analyzed for their effectiveness in reducing or eliminating adverse effects, funded by the Proponent, and monitored for implementation and effectiveness.

(b) Tracking and oversight.

(1) The Proponent will track, monitor, and implement all protective measures and all mitigation measures committed to in the FONSI or ROD. Draft Mitigation plans will be prepared within 60 days from the date of signature of the FONSI or ROD and will be staffed for review in the same manner as the predicate EA or EIS.

(2) Proponents are to ensure appropriate funding is allocated and tracked within the DAF mitigation tracking system,11 reportable to and under the oversight of SAF/IEI.

(3) SAF/IEI or SAF/AQT (or SAF/SQ equivalent) ensures Proponents implement protective measures and mitigation measures committed to as part of NEPA-related decision making through the DAF mitigation tracking system.

Part 4.4 Roles and responsibilities.

11 DAF Mitigation Tracker https://usaf.dps.mil/teams/10627

(a) Each DAF Official’s contribution to the NEPA process aligns with their Office’s designated authority. To comply with Congressional mandates for NEPA efficiency, the DAF delegates appropriate tasks to key senior officials in leadership roles.

(b) Office of the Secretary of the Air Force (SAF). The Secretary of the Air Force (SECAF) is the principal authority and “decision maker” for major DAF EIAP actions. The Assistant Secretary or Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary possesses delegated or redelegated decision-making authority.

(1) SAF/IE is the delegated authority for non-weapons systems acquisition NEPA matters and integration of environmental considerations and analysis into DAF decision-making within and outside the United States. As the Senior Agency Official (SAO), SAF/IE or the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary (PDAS) will:

(i) Provide NEPA guidance, direction, and oversight and DAF positions regarding Federal and State legislation and regulations.

(ii) Determine if an EIS is required for a proposed action.

(iii) Sign the ROD.

(2) SAF/IEI represents the SAO in NEPA policy and strategy development with assistance from AF/A4C. SAF/IEI will:

(i) Serve as the senior-level liaison with EPA, other Federal agencies, Congress, the Office of the Secretary of War (OSW), the Joint Staff, Department of War (DoW) Components, DAF Air and Space Staff, SAF/AQ, SAF/SQ, international partners, other non-Federal entities, and public interest groups.

(ii) Retain authority for initiating or accepting CA agreement relationships (Part 1.7).

(iii) Approve EISs prepared for all DAF actions, whether classified or unclassified, for submission to SAF/IE for final certification and direct elevation of EAs and FONSIs of Special Interest for approval as may be required

(iv) Approve extensions of time to complete EAs and EISs.

(v) Report to Congress on missed deadlines.

(3) Deputy Assistant Secretary for Environment, Energy, and Infrastructure (SAF/IEE) represents the SAO in Environmental Programs policy and strategy development. SAF/IEE will:

(i) Coordinate review of special topics and oversee compliance with Environmental Programs with SAF/IEE responsibilities as defined in Headquarters Air Force (HAF) Mission Directive (MD) 1-18, Assistant Secretary of the Air Force (Installations, Environment, and Energy), specifically Natural Resources/Cultural Resources consultations and remediation (e.g., per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance impacts (PFAS)).

(ii) Provide coordination of environmental compliance strategy for issues that arise during the EIAP.

(iii) Approves General Conformity Determinations before the completion of EIAP, acting as the lowest level of signature authority for these determinations.

(iv) Coordinates decisions related to significant DAF actions to ensure installation compliance with all applicable environmental laws, regulations, and policies before the EIAP is complete.

(v) Coordinates with AFCEC Compliance Technical Support Branch (AFCEC/CZTQ) or NGB Directorate of Logistics, Engineering, and Force Protection, Facilities Management Division (NGB/A4FR), as needed, regarding environmental compliance issues.

(4) SAF/GCN will:

(i) Provide advice to the SAF and HQ DAF on the DAF EIAP in accordance with HAF

MD 1-14.

(ii) Consult with the DAF Office of the Judge Advocate General (AF/JA), through AF/JAOE, on EIAP implementation issues.

(5) SAF/AQ for non-Space Programs and SAF/SQ for Space Programs are the respective delegated decision authorities for weapons systems-related EIAP actions, represent acquisition and sustainment programs’ related equities in NEPA, and are the approval authority for all systems-related NEPA environmental documents. SAF/AQ and SAF/SQ will:

(i) Manage assigned EISs, EAs of Special Interest, and overseas actions.

(ii) Establish policy and guidance and provide oversight for DAF acquisition and sustainment programs related to DAF EIAP.

(iii) Support early PREIAP and programming for EIAP by appropriate DAF Environment, Safety, and Occupational Health (ESOH) reviews of weapons system acquisition and sustainment program documentation including Systems Engineering Plans (SEPs) that document technical summary of Programmatic Environment Safety and Health Evaluations (PESHEs) and compliance schedules for NEPA/E.O. 12114 EIAP implementation.

(6) Secretary of the Air Force, Director of Legislative Liaison (SAF/LL) will:

(i) Coordinate with congressional delegations to narrow and define key issues on relevant actions.

(ii) Distribute draft and final EIS to congressional delegations.

(iii) Analyze and submit DAF position to OSW on proposed and enrolled legislation and executive department testimony related to EIAP.

(7) Secretary of the Air Force, Office of Public Affairs (SAF/PA) will:

(i) Review, coordinate, and clear environmental documents and other EIAP-relevant documentation per DAF and DoW policies and AFI 35-101 prior to public release, in coordination with AF/A4C.

(ii) Certify S&P review completion for public release suitability.

(c) HQ DAF.

(1) Deputy Chief of Staff for Logistics, Engineering and Force Protection (AF/A4). AF/A4C provides execution oversight for and development of DAF NEPA strategy, policy, directives, guidance, and doctrine of the EIAP program and interfaces with SAF/IEI, SF/S4O, SAF/AQ,12 and SAF/SQ. AF/A4C will:

(i) Coordinate review of EAs of Special Interest, at the direction of SAF/IEI or SAF/AQT (or SAF/SQ equivalent), and all EISs with relevant offices in the DAF.

(ii) Assist DAF Proponents and EPFs with coordination for internal reviews, required consultations, and preparation of classified EIAP documents (Part 3.13).

(iii) Staff, coordinate, and approve S&P reviews in EIAP programming and execution.

(iv) Engage with the OSW, Joint Staff, Services, DAF Staff, Congress, international partners, other Federal agencies and non-Federal entities, and public interest groups in activities related to collaboration, coordination, and communication.

(v) Support SAF/IEI for Proponents’ annual reporting to Congress when required.

(vi) Oversee integration of DAF noise program requirements into EIAP and coordinate distribution of Air Installations Compatible Use Zones (AICUZ) studies to Congress.

(2) AF/JA. AF/JAOE provides legal expertise on EIAP to include legal advice, opinions, and reach back support for all levels of the DAF.

(i) Office of Trial Judiciary Directorate (AF/JAT) will, if the DAF determines public hearings are appropriate, support the EIS by providing a military judge to serve as an independent hearing officer if a military judge is reasonably available.

(ii) AF/JAOE serves as the focal point for NEPA litigation. AF/JA will advise HQ DAF on litigation risks; provide litigation preventative legal advice on DAF NEPA documentation and processes; and consult with SAF/GCN on all EIAP matters.

(iii) AF/JAOE will provide legal advice and counsel on environmental matters, including NEPA, related to DAF MAJCOM and USSF installations and operations to maintain the DAF’s environmental compliance and ensure operations are conducted in accordance with the law.

(d) USSF.

12 HAF MD 1-38, Attachment 3

(1) SF/S4O supports USSF Space Installations and mission support for NEPA functions and collaborates with AF/A4C in staffing to ensure policy execution and oversight. SF/S4O will:

(i) Support the Proponent and provide input to support USSF NEPA execution, coordinating with AF/A4C, SAF/IEI, SAF/GCN, AF/JAOE, and AFCEC NEPA Environmental Impact Analysis Division (AFCEC/CIE) for appropriate decision-making and approval.

(ii) Execute USSF EIAP actions by implementing procedures and preparing environmental documents.

(iii) Support the coordination and review of USSF EA and EIS actions.

(iv) May approve Space Base Delta/Installation-level actions no lower than the Space Base Delta Commanders/Installation Commanders.

(e) Lead Commands, Supporting Commands, and Single Manager Acquisition Program:

(1) Lead Commands (DAF Policy Directive (DAFPD) 10-9, Lead Command/Lead Agent Designation and Responsibilities for United States Air Force Weapon Systems, Non-Weapon…