The Wisconsin DNR is seeking consultants to be paid by the agency to provide Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) services. Under WEPA (s. 1.11, Wis. Stats), state agencies in Wisconsin are required to issue EISs for proposed major actions significantly affecting the quality of the human environment. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) periodically prepares EISs on proposed agency actions and proposed non-DNR projects that require DNR permits or approvals. The procedural requirements for DNR-issued EISs are listed under s. NR 150.30, Wis, Adm. Code. As a natural resources & environmental protection agency, the DNR’s environmental review procedures (and capabilities) differ from those of other state and federal agencies. The DNR does not conduct stand-alone Environmental Assessments to determine whether an EIS is required; rather, environmental review is integrated within all DNR programmatic procedures for actions that may require an EIS. Traditionally, the DNR has prepared its EISs entirely in-house—utilizing the breadth and depth of DNR staff expertise in natural resource management and environmental sciences. In recent years, however, workload and staffing constraints have made it difficult to prepare EISs in this way. The DNR is looking to update its approach to preparing EISs, including contracting with environmental consultants for targeted EIS services based on project-specific needs and capacity. In cases where an EIS is required for a proposed private project, funding for the EIS will be provided by the project proponent. The overall scope, type(s), and subject matter of contracted EIS services will vary from project to project; however, the frequency of communication with DNR project managers and staff will generally be high.
