Final Environmental Assessment Addressing Construction, Operation, and Maintenance of a Military Working Dog Facility at Kirtland Air Force Base, New Mexico

Abstract : The 377 ABW proposes to construct, operate, and maintain a new MWD facility for the 377 SFS on Kirtland AFB. The facility would consist of 14 indoor/outdoor kennels, 4 isolation kennels storage and staff space, restrooms, food storage room, a covered walkway, and a veterinarian examining room, for a total of approximately 8,000 square feet. The MWD facility would be constructed in accordance with the Design Guide for Military Working Dog Facilities. The Proposed Action would also provide a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system; fire detection and suppression systems; all necessary utilities including natural gas service to replace propane tanks; and a 150-kilovolt-ampere natural gas-powered emergency generator to maintain HVAC system operations and stable temperatures during power outages. Depending on the site that is selected for the Proposed Action construction of a new obedience course for the MWDs, a parking area of up to 25 spaces (approximately 11,000 square feet), and a new access road might also be required. The existing MWD facility (Building 30126) would be demolished under the Proposed Action. The site of the existing MWD facility would be revegetated and returned to natural conditions following demolition. Depending on the site that is selected for the Proposed Action, demolition of the existing MWD obedience course might be required. Demolition would include removal of the chain-link fencing surrounding the obedience course and removal of the obstacles. The analysis in the EA considers the Proposed Action with three site location alternatives and the No Action Alternative. Two alternatives to the Proposed Action were considered, but eliminated from detailed analysis due to infeasibility.