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USDA/FS RIN: 0596-AC53 Publication ID: Spring 2008 
Title: Categorical Exclusion for Ski Area Resort Activities (FSH 1909.15, Chapter 30) 
Abstract: The Forest Service is publishing a proposed directive to amend Forest Service Handbook 1909.15, chapter 30, regarding categorical exclusions (CEs) from documentation under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). Its purpose is to improve management efficiency for ski areas operating under special use authorization on National Forest System lands. Experience in environmental analysis of ski area developments has shown that many projects implementing a ski area master development plan or programmatic decision that were analyzed through an Environmental Assessment (EA) or Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) have not individually or cumulatively had a significant effect on the human environment. In the majority of projects, the issues associated with ski areas arise from the initial development or expansion of an area rather than from implementing projects. The current list of CEs in this handbook omits some activities that do not warrant additional analysis and therefore places an unnecessary cost burden on the Agency and ski area operators. The Agency will review past environmental analyses to determine the types of implementing projects that typically do not have significant effects. Examples may include lift replacement or modification, minor modification of existing ski trails and terrain, improving or replacing existing facilities, and minor construction within the permitted area. 
Agency: Department of Agriculture(USDA)  Priority: Other Significant 
RIN Status: Previously published in the Unified Agenda Agenda Stage of Rulemaking: Proposed Rule Stage 
Major: No  Unfunded Mandates: No 
CFR Citation: None     (To search for a specific CFR, visit the Code of Federal Regulations.)
Legal Authority: 7 CFR 1b   
Legal Deadline:  None
Timetable:
Action Date FR Cite
Proposed Directive  07/00/2008    
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No  Government Levels Affected: None 
Small Entities Affected: No  Federalism: No 
Included in the Regulatory Plan: No 
RIN Data Printed in the FR: No 
Agency Contact:
Michael McGee
Regulatory Analyst
Department of Agriculture
Forest Service
MS 1134, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW,
Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone:202 205-2601
Fax:202 260-6539
Email: mmcgee01@fs.fed.us