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.
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