82a-327. Same; review of proposed project; considerations. (a) Prior to approval or issuance of a permit for a proposed water development project, the permitting agency shall obtain a review of the proposed project for environmental effects by the appropriate state environmental review agencies, and shall consider their comments in determining whether to approve or issue a permit for such project. The permitting agency may condition the approval of or permit for the project in a manner to address the environmental concerns of the environmental review agencies.

(b) In reviewing a proposed water development project, the environmental review agency shall consider:

(1) The beneficial and adverse environmental effects of a proposed project on water quality, fish and wildlife, forest and natural vegetation, historic, cultural, recreational, aesthetic, agricultural and other natural resources;

(2) the means and methods to reduce adverse environmental effects of a proposed project; and

(3) alternatives to a proposed project with significant adverse environmental effects.

(c) Each environmental review agency shall send its written comments on the proposed project within 30 days of receipt of the proposal from the permitting agency.

(d) Nothing in this act shall be construed as prohibiting a permitting agency from approving or issuing a permit if an environmental review agency determines adverse environmental effects will result if the project is approved or permitted. Nothing in this act shall be construed as preempting or duplicating any existing environmental review process otherwise provided or authorized by law.

History: L. 1987, ch. 400, § 3; July 1.