In the last edition of the E-newsletter we discussed how cumulative impacts would be considered in the EIS process.  In this edition, lets go a little deeper and discuss why they are so important.

 

Prior to the 1980's land around the US 281 project corridor was largely rural and undeveloped.  Since that time, the area has become developed with subdivisions, and commercial and retail businesses now line US 281 on both sides.  Activities associated with land development affect the natural and human environment in one way or another.  Some projects have more of an impact than others, but small effects add up.  These "cumulative effects" are a growing concern for many federal, state and local government agencies that share the responsibility for effective environmental stewardship.

US 281 area development

However, the term is usually used to describe the effects of development that "add up" or "accumulate" to produce observable impacts on land and people.  Examples of cumulative impacts on land caused by development might be seen in changes to the number of wildlife or birds or increases in non-native plants.  Cumulative impacts to people might be seen in changes to employment rate or availability of housing.

One impact by itself may not be a cause for concern; it may even seem minor.

However, the addition of many small impacts over time adds to the end result, causing cumulative impacts and in some cases a cause for concern.

That's why understanding and minimizing cumulative impacts is essential to making informed decisions about land and natural resource management as well as transportation improvements. 

The US 281 EIS will consider direct, indirect and cumulative impacts to the natural and human environment.

If you have further questions about the US 281 EIS, please click here to visit the web site or click here to email the US 281 EIS team.