Environmental Assessment (EA) for the Comprehensive Range Plan (CRP), Melrose Air Force Range (AFR), New Mexico
Abstract
The purpose of the Proposed Action is to implement the range improvements and infrastructure improvements contained in the Comprehensive Range Plan (CRP) to allow Melrose AFR to provide continual support to all users while supporting the Special Operations Forces (SOF) mission. The need to implement comprehensive plans on training ranges has become imperative due to the increased requirements and changing mission focus within the Air Force. There is a pressing need for a Melrose Air Force Range (AFR) vision to address the current and future needs of the Air Force, Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC), United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM), and the Department of Defense (DoD). The transfer in ownership from Air Combat Command (ACC) to AFSOC requires a shift of focus at Melrose AFR. The primary mission of Melrose AFR under ACC was to support tactical aircraft flying primarily daylight missions. Under AFSOC, the range would continue to support ACC and all users, but the focus would shift to support the daytime and nighttime activities for SOF. Additionally, Melrose AFR resources have attracted the interest of other branches of the military who are seeking better facilities to meet their training requirements. As a result, new weapons, tactics, and joint force training are creating demands on a range configuration originally designed for air-to-ground bombing and gunnery training. Pursuant to National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), 27th Special Operations Wing (27 SOW) completed an Environmental Assessment (EA) to assess the potential environmental impacts associated with the implementation of the CRP 2008 for Melrose AFR.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 2011
- Accession Number
- ADA603943