The National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 is America’s hallmark environmental law, requiring federal agencies to consider the environmental impacts of their actions before granting use of federal lands for right-of-way or issuing permits. The North Plains Connector route crosses some federal lands (U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, and U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Research Service) and is therefore subject to a federal environmental review under NEPA.

The NEPA process involves a comprehensive study of the natural, cultural, and human environments. Public engagement is a critical part of the process, with opportunity for the public to shape the study and be made fully aware of the potential impacts of an agency action. The Department of Energy will oversee this environmental review process and prepare associated documents in coordination with the other federal agencies.