Categorical Exclusion

B. Functional Exclusions

D. Extraordinary Circumstances
Consistent with CEQ’s regulations, environmental review is required for all NIH actions involving extraordinary circumstances. Following are examples of extraordinary circumstances that may apply to specific NIH actions.
1. Greater scope or size than other actions included within a category.
2. A threatened violation of a Federal, State, or local law established for protection of the environment or for public health and safety.
3. Potential effects of the action are unique or highly uncertain.
4. Potential effect on a protected or ecologically sensitive area of land, like a wetland or floodplain.
5. Possible impact on property that is listed or eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places or that is otherwise of scientific, cultural, or historic importance or interest.
6. Possible impact on endangered or threatened species.
7. Use of especially hazardous substances or processes for which adequate and accepted controls and safeguards are unknown or not available.
8. Substantial and reasonable controversy exists about the environment effects of the action.

Exclusion Text

20. The collection, processing, retention, evaluation and dissemination, including publication, of data and other information, including the acquisition and management of resources necessary to carry out those functions.

Extraordinary circumstances

• D. Extraordinary Circumstances
  Consistent with CEQ’s regulations, environmental review is required for all NIH actions involving extraordinary circumstances. Following are examples of extraordinary circumstances that may apply to specific NIH actions.
  1. Greater scope or size than other actions included within a category.
  2. A threatened violation of a Federal, State, or local law established for protection of the environment or for public health and safety.
  3. Potential effects of the action are unique or highly uncertain.
  4. Potential effect on a protected or ecologically sensitive area of land, like a wetland or floodplain.
  5. Possible impact on property that is listed or eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places or that is otherwise of scientific, cultural, or historic importance or interest.
  6. Possible impact on endangered or threatened species.
  7. Use of especially hazardous substances or processes for which adequate and accepted controls and safeguards are unknown or not available.
  8. Substantial and reasonable controversy exists about the environment effects of the action.