Notice of Intent To Prepare an Environmental Impact Statement for the Proposed West Chocolate Mountains Renewable Energy Evaluation Area, Imperial County, CA, and Possible Land Use Plan Amendment

SUMMARY: In compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969, as amended and the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976, as amended, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) El Centro Field Office, El Centro, California, intends to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to consider an amendment to the California Desert Conservation Area (CDCA) Plan to identify whether lands within the West Chocolate Mountains area should be made available for geothermal, solar, or wind energy development. By this notice the BLM is announcing the beginning of the scoping process to solicit public comments and identify issues.

DATES: This notice initiates the public scoping process for the EIS and possible plan amendment. Comments on issues may be submitted in writing until March 12, 2010. The date(s) and location(s) of any scoping meetings will be announced at least 15 days in advance through local media and the BLM Web site at: http://www.blm.gov/ca/st/en/fo/cdd.html.

In order to be considered in the Draft EIS, all comments must be received prior to the close of the scoping period or 15 days after the last public meeting, whichever is later. We will provide additional opportunities for public participation upon publication of the Draft EIS.

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