Below are some of the more commonly asked questions about cumulative effects that we have been asked. In most cases, more information on these questions can be found in the introduction section of our guidance. If you find your question is not answered here or in the guidance, please let us know.
How can partnerships with other agencies or organizations help me with my cumulative effects analysis?
Organizations can have quantified information or regional history about the resource or geographic area. Involving other organizations can build support for the project, influence design, aid in identifying mitigation opportunities and assist with monitoring.
When should I use the terms “significant” or “significance”?
The term significant or significance has a meaning specific to NEPA (National Environmental Policy Act). For instance, with an EA (Environmental Assessment), identifying significant effects can mean that it is not possible to receive a FONSI (Finding Of No Significant Impact) and an EIS (Environmental Impact Statement) will have to be done. Unfortunately, CEQ (Council of Environmental Quality) has not clearly defined these terms. Their published guidance uses both the legal meaning and the common meaning. Unless you are trying to establish that there are significant effects, it often is wiser to use a different term.
Can significant cumulative effects raise the level of environmental document? For instance from an EA to an EIS?
No, the amount or level of significance of cumulative effects will not change the level of environmental document from an EA to an EIS.
How do I know that a cumulative effect has risen to the level of significance?
Consider the context and level of intensity. For instance: Has the effect moved a species toward extinction, endangered the survival of a historic district or seriously degraded a wetland? These conclusions could definitely be determined to be significant. In other cases, it will not be as clear and the analyst will have to judge whether the cumulative effect is significant or not. Also consider whether it might affect the outcome of your document.
Is following this guidance required for WSDOT EISs and EAs? How often will it be required for DCEs?
Yes. This guidance has been adopted and agreed upon by WSDOT, FHWA and EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) for all WSDOT environmental documents. Although it applies to DCEs (Documented Categorial Exclusion), it generally will not be used since the nature of a DCE should indicate that there are no cumulative effects. The intent is that the guidance is scalable.
How can I tell the difference between indirect and cumulative effects?
Indirect effects are greater in time or further in distance but do not look at other’s actions or past actions. Cumulative effects include both direct and indirect effects as well as past and reasonably foreseeable future actions. They consider other’s actions as well.
If I don’t have any direct or indirect effects on a resource, do I have to study it for cumulative effects?
No, if you do not have any direct or indirect effects on a resource, you cannot have any cumulative effects so you do not need to study it.