Environmental Assessment of 2005 Base Closure and Realignment Actions at Buckley Air Force Base, Colorado

Abstract : This EA evaluates the Proposed Action to implement the 2005 BRAC Commission's recommendations for Buckley AFB. The Proposed Action would involve the construction of new facilities at Buckley AFB; associated infrastructure improvements; a new West Gate; upgrades to the Mississippi Gate; and the reassignment of three back-up F-16 aircraft from Springfield-Beckley Municipal Airport Air Guard Station, Ohio, to the 140 WG, Buckley AFB, Colorado. In addition, there would be an increase of approximately 800 personnel assigned to Buckley AFB from the 926th Fighter Wing and the Air Reserve Personnel Center (ARPC) Buckley Annex. The 460 SW is the current host unit at Buckley AFB and the 140 WG of the Colorado Air National Guard (COANG) operates as a tenant. Under the No Action Alternative, Buckley AFB would not implement the recommendations, resulting in no change to the existing conditions as a result of not implementing the action at the base. This EA analyzes and documents potential environmental consequences associated with the Proposed Action and reasonable alternatives to the Proposed Action at Buckley AFB. If the analyses presented in this EA indicate that implementation of the Proposed Action would not result in significant environmental or socioeconomic impacts, a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) would be prepared. In addition this Proposed Action has the potential to impact wetlands. If there is no practicable alternative to impacting wetlands then a Finding of No Practicable Alternative (FONPA) will be issued. If significant environmental issues are identified that cannot be minimized to insignificant levels, an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) would be prepared or the Proposed Action would be abandoned and no action would be taken. This EA is to be made available to government agencies and the public upon completion.