Federal Environmental Assessment And Review: Alaska Highway Gas Pipeline Project, Yukon Territory (1979).pdf

The project aims to deliver natural gas from Alaska to the contiguous United States.

## The Project Proposal
The Alaska Highway Gas Pipeline Project involves building a pipeline that spans approximately 1,067 kilometers (663 miles) through the rugged terrain of the Yukon, connecting with existing pipelines in Alaska and the lower 48 states.

## The Environmental Assessment and Review Process
The Federal Environmental Assessment and Review Process (FEARP) was followed to evaluate the project's potential environmental impacts. This process involves a panel reviewing an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) submitted by the project proponent, public hearings, and consultations with relevant agencies and stakeholders.

## Panel Procedures
### Review of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)
The Environmental Assessment Panel thoroughly examined the EIS provided by Foothills Pipe Lines. The EIS covered various aspects, including project description, potential environmental effects, mitigation measures, and alternative routes. However, the panel identified several information deficiencies that hindered a complete assessment.

### Public Hearings
Public hearings were held in multiple Yukon communities to gather concerns and feedback from residents and stakeholders. These hearings provided valuable insights into local ecological, cultural, and economic issues related to the pipeline project.

## Information Required for Completion of Panel Review
The panel identified critical information gaps that need to be addressed before a comprehensive review can be finalized:

### Physical and Engineering Concerns
- Geotechnical Aspects and Pipeline Integrity: Detailed geotechnical data is required to assess soil conditions, potential settlement, and long-term stability of the pipeline.
- Hydrology and Water Crossings: More information on water resources, hydrology, and potential impacts on streams and lakes is essential.
- Revegetation and Erosion Control: Effective revegetation plans and strategies for minimizing erosion during construction and operation are needed.
- Related Structures and Activities: The project's impact on access roads, power lines, and other infrastructure should be better defined.

### Biological Concerns
- Fisheries: A more comprehensive assessment of the project's effect on fish habitats and populations is required.
- Wildlife: Detailed studies on wildlife migration routes, potential habitat fragmentation, and impacts on animal species are needed.

### Route Alternatives
The panel considered several alternative routes:
- Kluane Lake Area: Exploring an alternative route around sensitive ecological areas.
- Ibex Pass Area: Evaluating a different crossing for better environmental compatibility.
- Mt. Michie-Squanga Lake Area: Considering a modified route to minimize disturbance.
- Rancheria Valley: Assessing the feasibility of an alternative path through this valley.

### Alternative Modes and Scheduling
- Alternative Modes: Exploring different construction techniques and scheduling options to reduce environmental impacts.
- Scheduling Alternatives: Evaluating various project timelines and their ecological consequences.

### Other Issues
- Aesthetics: Addressing the visual impact of the pipeline on the region's natural landscape.
- Associated Projects: Considering the cumulative effects of related projects in the area.
- Recreational Land Use: Assessing potential impacts on recreational activities and land use patterns.
- Noise: Evaluating noise pollution from construction and operational activities.
- Water Use, Wastewater Treatment, and Disposal: Addressing water resource management and wastewater handling concerns.
- Solid Waste Management, Toxic Materials, and Contingency Planning: Ensuring proper waste management and preparedness for potential hazards.