CH Environmental Impact Assessment 2

Question 1

Under NEPA, which document is required when a federal action may significantly affect the quality of the human environment?

Accepted Answer

Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)

Answer

An EIS is required under NEPA when a proposed federal action may significantly affect the human environment.

Question 2

Which hydrographic survey activity most commonly requires an EIA due to potential seabed disturbance?

Accepted Answer

Anchor placement for survey vessels

Answer

Anchor placement physically disturbs the seabed and benthic habitats, commonly triggering EIA requirements.

Question 3

What is the primary purpose of a 'scoping' process in an EIA?

Accepted Answer

To identify significant issues and alternatives early in the process

Answer

Scoping identifies the range of actions, alternatives, and impacts to be analyzed in the EIS before detailed study begins.

Question 4

When conducting hydrographic surveys in a designated Critical Habitat under the Endangered Species Act, which agency must be consulted?

Accepted Answer

NOAA Fisheries or USFWS

Answer

Section 7 of the ESA requires consultation with NOAA Fisheries (marine species) or USFWS (terrestrial/freshwater species) for actions in Critical Habitat.

Question 5

Which parameter is most critical to assess when evaluating acoustic impacts of multibeam sonar on marine mammals?

Accepted Answer

Source level and frequency range of the sonar

Answer

Source level and frequency determine whether acoustic energy overlaps with marine mammal hearing ranges and exceeds injury thresholds.

(CH) Certified Hydrographer Practice Test

(CH) Certified Hydrographer Practice Test

CH Environmental Impact Assessment 2