2013-07-01_PERMIT FILE - X201322801 (3)

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BLM Uncompahgre Field Office Sunset Trail Area Coal Exploration Plan FONSI 7) Consideration of the action in relation to other actions with individually insignificant but cumulatively significant impacts. Other projects, including future coal mining, are foreseeable, but it is not anticipated that cumulative impacts of any significance would occur, as analyzed in the FE1S for the Federal Coal Lease Modifications COC -1362 & COC- 67232. The limited scale of activity from the proposed coal exploration creates minimal individual effects, as well as minimal cumulative effects when added to the existing situation and other potential activities. 8) The degree to which the action may adversely affect districts, sites, highways, structures, or objects listed in or eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places or may cause loss or destruction ofsignificant scientific, cultural, or historic resources. Field surveys were completed; no cultural or historic sites would be affected by this decision. The SHPO was consulted and concurred with these findings. If any unidentified sites are discovered during implementation, they would be avoided or mitigated so that they would not be impacted (per lease stipulation, see Appendix A of the EA). 9) The degree to which the action may adversely affect an endangered or threatened species or its critical habitat. No endangered, threatened, candidate or proposed species would be adversely affected by the project. All listed species occurring within the analysis area were considered. 10) Whether the action threatens a violation of federal, state, or local law or requirements imposed for the protection of the environment. The proposed action does not threaten violation of any laws or regulations imposed for the protection of the environment. Determination This Finding of No Significant Impact is based on the information contained in the EA and my consideration of criteria for significance (40 CFR 1508.27). It is my determination that: 1) the implementation of the proposed action will not have significant environmental impacts; 2) the proposed action is in conformance with the Uncompahgre Basin Resource Management Plan; and the amended Land and Resource Management for the GMUG; and 3) the proposed action does not constitute a major federal action having significant effect on the human environment. Therefore, an Environmental Impact Statement is not necessary. Approved: Barbara Sharrow Date Field Manager BLM, Uncompahgre Field Office June 2013