BOULDER CITY, Nev. - The Bureau of Reclamation is seeking public comment on a draft Environmental Assessment (EA) that assesses the potential human health and environmental impacts of a 1,800 acre proposed project area that includes a 1,200 acre riparian and marsh restoration/enhancement project at the Laguna Division Conservation Area located in the Laguna Division Conservation Area between Imperial Dam and Laguna Dam near Yuma, Arizona.

The draft EA, prepared by the Lower Colorado River Multi-Species Conservation Program in compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), evaluates a proposed action and a "no action" alternative and addresses the potential effects to various critical resources.

The proposed action alternative incorporates the removal of non-native species, such as salt cedar, and replacing it with water channels, native trees (cottonwood and willow), and marsh habitat. This would include constructing a gravity water delivery system from the Gila desilting basin to the proposed project site and a water control structure that would send water to the proposed wetland restoration area.

Comments about the draft EA from the public are appreciated and will be considered in the final EA. If Reclamation determines that there would be no significant impacts as a result if implementation of the project, a Finding of No Significant Impact determination may be executed. . The review period extends through December 31, 2010. Please send comments or concerns in writing to the Bureau of Reclamation, P. O. Box 61470, Boulder City, NV 89006, ATTN: Ms. Dana Anat (LC-2625). All comments must be postmarked by December 31, 2010. An electronic copy of the Draft EA can be found at http://www.usbr.gov/lc/region/g2000/envdocs.html or a paper copy is available upon e-mail request to Ms. Anat at danat@usbr.gov.