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Chapter 2 -Issues And Alternatives As required under NEPA, input on this proposal was requested from appropriate agencies, specific interested parties and the general public (see also Section 4.B). The comments received were analyzed and summarized [o represent [he issues and concerns of the respondents. Based on, and in response to the issues raised, the Forest Service developed alternatives that address the purpose and need for the project (see Section 1.C). The steps taken in the public involvement process, the issues raised, and alternative development are discussed below. 2.A. PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT PROCESS The Forest Service used several means to invite public comment (public scoping) on this proposed GVB installation. Individual scoping letters were mailed to 15 interested parties on August 31, 2001. A news release appeared in the Delta County Lidependent- North Fork Times on August 29, 2001. Copies of these documents are contained in the project file. In addition, the Paonia District Ranger attended the September 4, 2001 meeting of the North Fork Coal Working Group (a community-based collaborative group working on coal-related issues) to present the proposal to the group and invite comments. Records of all the scoping comments aze contained in the project file. 2.B. ISSUES CARRIED FORWARD IN THE ANALYSIS Common issues relating to the proposed GVB installation and needed road access were identified and based on the comments received during the public scoping process. These issues, along with issues raised by the Interdisciplinary Team (IDT), were carried forwazd in the EA analysis. The issues carried forwazd aze listed below. Wildlife 1. Effects of the proposed drilling and road reopening and construction and resulting road density on wildlife habitat, including Tlu•eatened, Endangered and Sensitive (TES), and Management Indicator Species (MIS) species. 2. Effects of drill site noise and night time lighting on wildlife. 3. Effects of the proposed drilling and road reopening and construction on ripazian/wetland habitat. 4. Effects of granting an exception to the Big Game Winter Range timing limitation stipulation on wintering wildlife. Geology and Soils, and Watershed 1. Implications of geologic hazards on drill sites and road alignments.