CFP Environmental Impact Assessment 2

Question 1

Under NEPA, which document is prepared when a federal agency is uncertain whether a proposed action will significantly affect the environment?

Accepted Answer

Environmental Assessment

Answer

An Environmental Assessment (EA) is prepared to determine whether a proposed action requires a full EIS or qualifies for a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI).

Question 2

Which federal law requires consultation between federal agencies and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service when a proposed action may affect threatened or endangered species?

Accepted Answer

Endangered Species Act Section 7

Answer

ESA Section 7 mandates formal consultation with USFWS or NMFS when federal actions may jeopardize listed species or adversely modify critical habitat.

Question 3

In EIA, what is the term for the predicted state of the environment without the proposed project?

Accepted Answer

Future without project condition

Answer

The 'future without project condition' describes the expected environmental state if the action is not implemented, providing the comparison baseline for impact prediction.

Question 4

Which method is most appropriate for quantifying the spatial extent of thermal plume impacts on fish habitat in a river receiving a power plant discharge?

Accepted Answer

Hydrodynamic thermal dispersion modeling

Answer

Hydrodynamic thermal dispersion models simulate temperature gradients in the water column and predict the areal extent of thermal impacts on aquatic habitat.

Question 5

A Biological Opinion concluding 'jeopardy' to a listed fish species must include which element?

Accepted Answer

Reasonable and Prudent Alternatives

Answer

When USFWS or NMFS issues a jeopardy Biological Opinion, it must include Reasonable and Prudent Alternatives (RPAs) that the action agency can implement to avoid jeopardy.

(CFP) Certified Fisheries Professional Practice Test

(CFP) Certified Fisheries Professional Practice Test

CFP Environmental Impact Assessment 2