Finding of No Significant Impact for Fort Berthold Rural Water System

No significant issues were identified during initial public scoping or through the release of the draft environment assessment; therefore, Reclamation has signed the FONSI and will proceed with Reclamation's preferred alternative.

Some of the FBRWS Phase III construction activities include: Two new water distribution systems in the Parshall and White Shield areas; replacement of the existing Mandaree water treatment plant in a new location; and Construction of a new FBRWS Administration and O&M Shop building in a new location in the Four Bears Segment.

"Improvements and infrastructure development for the Fort Berthold Rural Water System are not just about water, they're about nurturing life, fostering growth, and sowing the seeds of progress for a sustainable tomorrow," said Joe Hall, Dakota's Area Office Manager for Reclamation.

A Draft Environmental Assessment (EA) was prepared for the proposed Project and made available for a 30-day comment period in November 2023. A final EA was completed on January 16, 2024, and a FONSI was signed on January 19, 2024.

A copy of the FONSI and final PEA are located at http://www.usbr.gov/gp/dkao/index.html. Hardcopies of the FONSI and final PEA may be obtained by calling Ashley Persinger, Supervisory Natural Resource Specialist, at 701-221-1282 or by requesting in writing from Area Manager, Bureau of Reclamation, P.O. Box 1017, Bismarck, North Dakota, 58502.