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The Designation Process

Step 4. Final Environmental Impact Statement/Final Management Plan
The state, with assistance by NOAA, prepares the FEIS/FMP as follows:
  • NOAA works with the state to respond to comments on the DEIS/DMP.
  • The state makes necessary changes to the DEIS/DMP and submits preliminary and final documents to NOAA for review.
  • The FEIS/FMP includes:
    • the unsigned MOU between NOAA and the state
    • signed MOU(s) among reserve partners establishing roles and responsibilities
    • a Coastal Zone Management Act federal consistency determination
    • an Endangered Species Act section 7 consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
  • Upon approval, NOAA prints the FEIS/FMP and distributes it to those who provided comments and to other interested parties.
  • NOAA publishes a Federal Register notice announcing the availability of the FEIS/FMP. The date of publication begins the 30-day waiting period.

For more information contact: Laurie.McGilvray@noaa.gov.