Environmental Assessment Completed

Smithers RAPRA Special Use Permit Reissuance

Hiawatha National Forest Chippewa, Michigan Hiawatha National Forest All Units

Proposed activities include reissuance of a 20-year SUP for use of the abandoned National Guard air base in Raco, Michigan (Raco Airbase). The existing permit was put in place on October 4, 1996, and expires on October 4, 2016.

Location

The site is an abandoned National Guard airbase in Raco, Michigan along Highway 28, approximately 18 miles west of Sault Ste. Marie. The site has been used for vehicle testing under permit since 1972.

Project timeline

1
Scoping Start
07/14/2014
2
Comment Period
03/18/2015
3
Objection Period Start
05/11/2015
4
Decision
07/2015 (Estimated)
5
Implementation
07/2015 (Estimated)

NEPA / regulatory detail

Special AuthorityNot Applicable / Other
Notice and Comment Regulation218 (2013) Non-HFRA
Project ActivitySpecial Use Authorizations
Final DN/FONSI Smithers RAPRA Special Use Permit ReissuanceDecision Signed Date: 07/09/2015
Final DN/FONSI Smithers RAPRA SUP Reissuance-Project-specific FP AmendmentDecision Signed Date: 07/09/2015
ForestsHiawatha National Forest
DistrictsSault Ste. Marie Ranger District
Legal Land DescriptionTownship (T) 46N, Range (R) 4W, Section 26.
Special use management