Abstract:
In response to growing concerns around the management and implementation of the National Environmental
Policy Act (NEPA), the Pacific Northwest Research Station and Ecosystem Management Coordination
in the Washington Office launched the “NEPA for the 21st Century” initiative in 2006. The initiative
explored ways for improving how the Forest Service executes NEPA responsibilities. Policy analysts,
academics, consultants, and other professionals examined agency NEPA practices to uncover opportunities
to improve the processes and outcomes associated with compliance. This research synthesizes the
studies, publications, agency learning opportunities, and participants’ perspectives on the initiative.