Expansion of Facilities to Support Sea Turtle Science and Recovery 2011 Environmental Assessment

This is the finalized environmental assessment for expanding the facilities for the Division of Sea Turtle Science and Recovery at Padre Island National Seashore. This proposed action consists of constructing two cabins along the Gulf of Mexico beach, while also expanding the sea turtle egg incubation laboratory at park Headquarters. Construction of these facilities would provide the infrastructure so park staff may respond appropriately to the increase of sea turtle nesting.

The environmental assessment was prepared in compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) to provide the decision-making framework that 1) analyzes a reasonable range of alternatives to meet project objectives, 2) evaluates potential issues and impacts to Padre Island National Seashore's resources and values, and 3) identifies mitigation measures to lessen the degree or extent of these impacts.

This environmental assessment evaluated two alternatives: a no-action alternative and an action alternative. The no-action alternative describes the current condition if no new cabins or incubation lab expansion are constructed, and the action alternative addresses construction for two new cabins and expanding the sea turtle incubation facility. The action alternative was the preferred, chosen alternative.

In addition to the completion of this environmental assessment, all formal consultation with interested agencies has also been completed. All of the park's final compliance documents for this project can be either be found on this webpage, or you may also call Wade Stablein, of my staff, at (361) 949-8173, ext. 224 to request a hard copy.

The National Park Service would like to thank all stakeholders and interested parties who provided their valuable comments and guidance for this project. We are grateful and thankful for your continuing support for the park.

Document Content:

Expansion of Facilities to Support Sea Turtle Science and Recovery 2011 EA Final   (1.6 MB, PDF file) Disclaimer: Links within the above document(s) were valid as of the date published. Note: Some of the files may be in PDF format and can be viewed using the Adobe Acrobat Reader software. You may download a free copy of from Adobe Systems.