Proposed major subdivisions require an Environmental Assessment (EA) under the Montana Subdivision and Platting Act. A detailed description of the local environment and community are required.
The components of the EA are as follows:
GEOLOGY: soils, seismic activity, bedrock, high ground water. Proposed measures to minimize problems presented by the identified conditions.
VEGETATION: marshlands, grasslands, shrubs, forests, etc. Measures to protect vegetative cover. Weeds and weed control.
FISH AND WILDLIFE: identification of major species of fish and wildlife using the area to be affected by the proposed subdivision. Location of important wildlife areas such as big game winter range, waterfowl nesting areas, calving areas, habitat for rare and endangered species. Description of measures needed to protect wildlife habitat or to minimize degradation.
HISTORICAL FEATURES: description and location of historic, archaeological, or cultural sites potentially affected by the subdivision.
ROADS: new construction, improvements to old, closure or modification, maintenance, expected daily traffic, easements , year round access.
UTILITIES: provider, easements, review by utilities, completion date schedule.
EMERGENCY SERVICES: available emergency services including fire department, ambulance, police, medical services. Assessment of whether local emergency services can provide adequate protection.
SCHOOLS: description of available public education facilities
LAND USE: description of land uses on lands adjacent to the subdivision. Presence of any land use regulations covering the proposed subdivision or adjacent land. Proximity to public lands and their present and anticipated uses. Health and safety hazards such as railroads, gas lines, power lines, mines, etc.
PARKS AND RECREATIONAL FACILITIES: Park and recreational facilities to be provided within the proposed subdivision and other recreational facilities that will serve the subdivision.
Heron-CRD
Heron Citizens for Responsible Development Heron, Montana