NPS releases Sediment Management Framework Final Environmental Impact Statement for Cape Hatteras National Seashore

The National Park Service has released for review the Sediment Management Framework Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) for Cape Hatteras National Seashore (Seashore).

The purpose of the FEIS is to develop a streamlined framework for permitting sediment management actions at the Seashore, including the methods, locations and frequency for sediment management actions that may be permitted over the next 20 years.

A sediment management framework is needed to assist the Seashore in addressing requests for sediment management activities to protect critical infrastructure such as roads, bridges, electrical transmission facilities and other public transportation facilities; to repair island damages, including breaches that also affect transportation; and to restore habitat through the placement of dredged materials along eroded sections of barrier islands.

Three alternatives were evaluated in this FEIS, including a preferred alternative described as alternative B.

Under alternative B, the NPS would implement a framework that could permit agencies, municipalities and others to conduct, with conditions, sediment management in the form of sound side and ocean side beach nourishment, dune restoration, filling island breaches and habitat restoration.

A special use permit application package would be given to each project proponent detailing information the NPS may require as part of the project. Sediment management activities would generally not be permitted along approximately 13 noncontiguous miles of beach set aside for monitoring where beach width or lack of vulnerable infrastructure indicate a low potential for requests to manage sediment.

To view the FEIS and associated documents, visit parkplanning.nps.gov/CAHAsediment.

A final decision, issued in a document called a record of decision (ROD), will occur after a 30-day waiting period.