Environmental Impact Statement
Under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA), all major U.S. federal actions significantly affecting the quality of the human environment must be preceded by an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). An EIS is a detailed statement assessing 1) the environmental impact of the proposed action; 2) any adverse environmental effects that cannot be avoided should the proposal be implemented; 3) alternatives to the proposed action; 4) the environment and the maintenance and enhancement of long-term productivity; and 5) any irreversible and irretrievable commitments of resources that would be involved in the proposed action. See also avoidance, mitigation. (Bucher, 1996)