Why the EIS is Needed

The TAPS Renewal EIS is needed to maintain compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969.

• The TAPS right-of-way on federal lands is authorized by a Federal Grant that expires on January 22, 2004.
• For the pipeline to remain in place and in operation, a new Federal right-of-way authorization must be issued.

The Bureau of Land Management, Alaska State Office, has determined that the TAPS owners' application for a renewal of the Federal Grant is a major federal action. Under provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is required for major federal actions. Therefore, an EIS is required for the TAPS renewal.