Final Environmental Assessment for Utilization Enhancements at Melrose Air Force Range, New Mexico

Abstract : This Environmental Assessment describes the U.S. Air Forces proposal to reconfigure Melrose Air Force Range to create more efficient and effective training capabilities and to enhance safety for range users and the public. Reconfiguration of the range would reduce congestion in the central portion of the range and allow for efficient scheduling of simultaneous training operations. The Proposed Action includes facility demolition or abandonment, construction, utilities and fencing installation, non-renewal of agricultural subleases, training operations, a reintroduction of explosive munitions to the western target area, and a change in munitions expenditures. Alternative 1 to the Proposed Action includes allelements of the Proposed Action, but proposes a different reconfiguration of the range. Alternative 2 to the Proposed Action includes all elements of the Proposed Action except the reintroduction of explosive munitions in one range.