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In 2000, the Forest Service and other firefighting agencies established guidance for retardant application as contained in Guidelines for Aerial Application of Fire Retardant and Foams in Aquatic Environments (April 20, 2000). The guidelines were developed and implemented to mitigate the impact of fire retardant application on aquatic species and aquatic habitat and they established retardant-free buffer zones 300 feet from waterways that are visible to the pilot.

The Forest Service has completed an environmental analysis and prepared an environmental assessment to determine whether the continued nationwide aerial application of fire retardant to fight fires would result in any significant environmental impacts within the meaning of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969.