Final Environmental Impact Statement for Proposed Barry M. Goldwater Range East Range Enhancements and Record of Decision for the Barry M. Goldwater Range East Range Enhancements, Final Environmental Impact Statement Dated November 26, 2010
Abstract
The U.S. Air Force proposes to take ten different actions that would enhance range operations and training at the Barry M. Goldwater Range (BMGR) East, including the Gila Bend Air Force Auxiliary Field (AFAF). These proposals include (1) developing a Sensor Training Area for precision-guided munitions training, (2) establishing procedures for environmental clearance of target reconfigurations, (3) developing a track for a moving vehicle target system and conducting associated attack training, (4) establishing a new target for air-to-ground missiles, (5) lowing the flight training altitude over a portion of the Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge, (6) reconfiguring Manned Range 3 for helicopter training, (7) allowing on-the-ground training exercises for small and large teams, (8) building a taxiway and a new air traffic control tower at the Gila Bend AFAF, (9) paving the road from Manned Range 1 to Range Munitions Consolidation Point 1, and (10) extracting and stockpiling sand and gravel for use on BMGR East. The purpose of and need for these actions is to modernize BMGR East to provide the training resources needed to prepare air and ground forces to meet current and future defense missions. This final environmental impact statement analyzes the proposed actions and alternatives, including the no action alternative. Each action could be implemented independently of the others and contribute to the training value of the range, although the most military value would be obtained by implementing all of the proposed actions. The effects of each alternative are discussed in regard to earth resources, water resources, air quality, biological resources, land use, outdoor recreation, health and safety, cultural resources, hazardous materials, socioeconomics, and noise. Comments received on the draft environmental impact statement have been addressed with clarifications and supplemental information as well as written responses to comments.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 25, 2014
- Accession Number
- ADA634039