The SEQR process begins with a determination of which agency will take the lead to review the project. The agency can be either a local government entity such as a Town Board or Planning Board, or the State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC). Should the project decision- making remain at the local level, the DEC still plays a prominent role in the process.
Once lead agency status is determined, the first step is the preparation of an Environmental Assessment Form (EAF) to define in a broad sense, the significance of environmental studies that will be associated with the project, as well as any social and economic considerations.
When an acceptable EAF has been approved, the next step is to develop a Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS). The DEIS is a much more in-depth look at the project and the actions that will be undertaken to eliminate or mitigate adverse environmental concerns, social or economic issues associated with the proposed project, as well as identifying what types of studies might need to be undertaken.
Public involvement is an important component within the development of the DEIS. The process calls for public hearings, public comment periods, and open review of all documentation, to ensure that all concerns are adequately addressed as part of the final decision.
Once completed, the DEIS is subject to a public comment period before it can be approved by the lead agency. When it is accepted, a Final Environmental Impact Statement is prepared and distributed for additional public comment. That document is the final step in the approval process and must clearly establish a supportable record for the decision on the project.
