AF Form 813 – Request for Environmental Impact Analysis

AF Form 813 PDF Details

Understanding the AF Form 813 is crucial for those involved in initiating actions that may impact the environment within the framework of military operations and infrastructure planning. This form serves as a request for an environmental impact analysis, acting as the first step in scrutinizing the potential environmental implications of proposed projects or actions. The form is divided into three sections that require detailed input from the proponent (the person or entity proposing the action) and the Environmental Planning Function, responsible for evaluating the environmental ramifications.

Section I gathers comprehensive details from the proponent, including the purpose and necessity of the action, along with a descriptive analysis of the proposed activity and any alternatives. Section II focuses on a preliminary environmental survey, guiding the user through a checklist to assess potential effects on various environmental aspects such as air quality, water resources, and biological resources, among others. This section ensures a comprehensive evaluation of how the proposed action may positively or adversely impact the environment, considering cumulative effects as well. Section III determines whether the proposed action qualifies for a categorical exclusion or if a more in-depth environmental analysis is required. This determination is vital in the decision-making process for proceeding with the proposed action.

The AF Form 813 is required under Air Force Instruction 32-7061 and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). It applies to all proposed actions on Air Force installations that could affect the environment, including construction projects, land use changes, and training activity modifications. The form helps installation commanders and environmental officials determine the scope of environmental review needed before approving a project. In cases where the action clearly falls within a predefined categorical exclusion, the process may be completed quickly. For actions with significant potential impacts, a full environmental assessment or environmental impact statement may follow.

Common situations requiring an AF Form 813 include building renovations, changes to facility operations, new construction on base, and modifications to flight training patterns. The proponent must describe each alternative considered, including the no-action alternative, to ensure decision-makers have a full picture of options and their respective environmental consequences.

For other Air Force administrative forms, see AF Form 103 for base civil engineer work orders, or Air Force Form 102 for incident reports. You can also browse related Air Force documentation such as AF Form 1206, used for nomination and recommendation records.