Categorical Exclusion for Tonopah Public Utilities

The Nevada Division of Environmental Protection (NDEP), as designated by the US Environmental Protection Agency, is the lead agency for proposed projects funded by the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) program for the State of Nevada. The DWSRF loan applicant, Tonopah Public Utilities, has applied for funding to replace galvanized pipeline within three project areas. These water distribution lines fail continually causing the neighborhood to lose water pressure and volume. The project will also include the installation of properly spaced fire hydrants to allow the system to be flushed properly, as well as the reinstallation and connection of 70 service lines to the new water line.

The Nevada Administrative Code (NAC), in Sections NAC 445A.6758 to 445A.67612, inclusive, outlines the environmental review procedures to be followed by the NDEP to be consistent with the requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The water line replacement project qualifies for a Categorical Exclusion under NAC 445A.67583. As specified in NAC 445A.67583 (2), the project qualifies for a Categorical Exclusion because as it is (a) The replacement of equipment or structures. A significant negative effect on the quality of the environment by this project is unlikely.

Consultation with appropriate cross-cutting agencies will be completed prior to signing a final commitment of financial assistance. No wetlands, floodplains, agricultural lands, or significant fish or wildlife species or habitats are affected by the project. No national landmarks or property with nationally significant historic, architectural, prehistoric, archeological, or cultural value will be affected by the project. The State Historic Preservation Office concurrence will be obtained prior to commencing the construction of the project. Native American entities that may have interest in the general project area will be given an opportunity to provide their comments and feedback. Best management practices will be utilized during construction.

Persons wishing to obtain further information regarding the project should submit their comments no later than May 31, 2023. Comments can be made via email, ndep-ofa@ndep.nv.gov or via mail:

Elizabeth Kingsland
Nevada Division of Environmental Protection, Office of Financial Assistance
901 South Stewart Street, Suite 4001, Carson City, NV 89701-5249

A link to NDEP’s public notices can be found at: https://ndep.nv.gov/posts.