Environmental Impact Assessments Attorney
in Portland, Oregon

Environmental impact assessments (EIAs) are used to evaluate and mitigate the environmental effects of proposed projects or developments. These assessments are designed to make sure environmental considerations are fully incorporated into the decision-making process, balancing the need for development with protecting natural resources and communities.  

EIAs help identify potential environmental risks and guide developers toward sustainable practices that comply with state and federal laws. At the Law Office of Frank Hammond LLC, we provide legal support for businesses, developers, and individuals looking to conduct environmental impact assessments.

Whether you’re a developer, business owner, or municipal entity, our attorney offers experienced legal guidance to help make sure your EIA is thorough, compliant, and positioned for success. Located in Portland, Oregon, we serve clients in the surrounding areas. Reach out today to schedule a consultation. 

What Are Environmental Impact Assessments? 

An environmental impact assessment (EIA) is a legal tool that evaluates the potential environmental consequences of a proposed project before any major decisions are made or actions are taken. In Oregon, this process is particularly essential since environmental preservation is a central component of the state's policy.  

At both the federal and state levels, the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) requires federal agencies and certain projects with federal involvement to complete a thorough EIA to determine whether a project can proceed and identify any necessary mitigation or modifications to reduce its environmental impact.  

Additionally, Oregon law imposes further regulations through the Oregon Environmental Policy Act (OEPA), which considers the environmental impacts from large-scale commercial developments to smaller, community-based projects.

What To Consider When Conducting an Environmental Impact Assessment 

When proposing a new project or development venture, businesses and individuals are required to conduct a thorough environmental impact assessment, often by commissioning an environmental consultant. This consultant will evaluate a range of potential environmental impacts that could potentially affect the environment and surrounding communities.  

Some key points an environmental impact assessment should contain include the following: 

• Potential discharge and pollution to the air and nearby water sources 

• Potential risks to biodiversity that could result in loss and impacts on ecosystem stability 

• Potential changes in land use and their environmental consequences 

• Potential sources and the effects of noise pollution 

• Potential health concerns for nearby communities, including economic and social implications, as well as potential long-term benefits and drawbacks for the local population 

The goal of an EIA is to identify any significant adverse effects that could result from the proposed project and develop strategies to minimize or eliminate them. Strategies could involve public hearings or input from stakeholders to gather diverse perspectives and balance development needs with environmental protection and community well-being. 

Oregon Requirements for EIAs  

Oregon law emphasizes the protection of its natural resources, and these laws often extend beyond federal regulations. Any projects that could potentially impact wetlands, wildlife, air quality, water quality, or culturally significant areas will most likely require environmental assessments under state law.  

The key agencies involved with conducting and approving EIAs typically include the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), the Oregon Department of State Lands (DSL), and local municipal planning departments. The industries and activities that are commonly subject to EIA requirements in Oregon include the following: 

• Energy development: Projects involving renewable energy sources (such as wind, solar, or hydroelectric power) may require EIAs to assess environmental risks and compatibility with state energy goals.  

• Construction and land development: Urban development projects, infrastructure improvements, and large-scale residential projects must evaluate impacts on ecosystems, water resources, and air quality.  

• Mining and resource extraction: Activities such as mining, forestry, and aggregate extraction are heavily regulated to ensure proper environmental stewardship.  

• Transportation projects: Highway construction, rail expansion, and port developments must address potential consequences for the surrounding environment and communities.  

At the Law Office of Frank Hammond LLC, our attorney has extensive experience working within Oregon's environmental laws to make sure environmental impact assessments comply with these requirements while helping businesses and organizations achieve their goals.  

An Overview of the EIA Process  

The EIA process typically involves several stages, including scoping, analysis, reporting, and decision-making. Each stage requires careful attention to detail to comply with all applicable state and federal regulations. The primary steps in the EIA process include the following: 

Scoping and Planning  

The scope of an environmental impact assessment includes identifying potential impacts to be studied, engaging stakeholders, and coordinating with relevant agencies. This process involves assisting with early consultations and public engagement to address community concerns and build a strong foundation for the project. 

Data Collection and Analysis  

This stage involves working with technical experts to gather relevant environmental data, including ecological, hydrological, and geological studies. It also includes making sure the business or organization complies with Oregon's specific environmental standards, such as regulations protecting groundwater and surface water resources. 

Document Preparation  

The third stage involves drafting and reviewing the necessary EIA documents for accuracy, clarity, and compliance with state and federal regulatory requirements. This process also includes incorporating mitigation measures to address potential environmental impacts and effectively address agency concerns. 

Agency and Public Review  

Once the EIA documents have been reviewed and finalized, they must be submitted to the relevant state and federal agencies for review and approval. The submitting business or individual will need to address any responses to public comments and agency feedback to make sure the project stays on track. 

Permitting and Compliance  

Once the regulating body approves the EIA, the submitting business or individual will need to secure the necessary permits to proceed with their projects. This could include Clean Water Act Section 404 permits, Oregon Removal-Fill permits, and air quality permits, among others. You will also need to stay up to date on ongoing compliance obligations under Oregon state and federal law to minimize the risk of enforcement actions or project delays.  

Addressing Challenges and Disputes  

The EIA process is often subject to scrutiny, with potential challenges arising from regulatory agencies, community groups, or other stakeholders. At the Law Office of Frank Hammond LLC, we are prepared to advocate for your interests in the face of disputes or delays.

Whether you need assistance defending an EIA in administrative proceedings, responding to agency enforcement actions, or handling litigation, our environmental law attorney offers the experienced representation you need.  

How Our Firm Can Help 

At the Law Office of Frank Hammond LLC, we understand that complying with environmental regulations often requires a meticulous understanding of the law. Our firm focuses on delivering personalized legal services that address each client’s unique needs and challenges. Some of the reasons our clients trust us to handle their environmental law matters include: 

• Experienced representation: We have years of experience in environmental law and are well-versed in both state and federal regulations.  

• Comprehensive services: From initial consultations to permitting and litigation, we strive to provide end-to-end legal support for EIAs.  

• Strategic solutions: We work diligently to identify practical solutions that align with our clients’ goals while making sure they comply with all regulations.