​The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) requires federal agencies to consider the potential environmental effects of proposed projects before making a decision to fund, approve, or implement an action.

The Endangered Species Act (ESA) provides for conservation of listed animal, fish, and plant species and their habitat, and specifies consultation and permitting requirements prior to actions that may affect species or their habitat.

The Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act requires consultation on activities that will adversely affect essential fish habitat.

The National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) and other statutes require evaluation of effects on historic properties and other cultural resources in consultation with affected states, tribes, and members of the public.

The Clean Water Act and other state and local obligations require the protection of water resources including wetlands, riparian areas, and floodplains.

The Clean Air Act calls for states and EPA to solve multiple air pollution problems through programs based on the latest science and technology information