(a) In consultation with the NECM, the SEC will determine if public meetings will be held on a proposed action to:

(1) Inform the public about the details of a proposed action and its possible environmental effects;

(2) Gather information about the public concerns; and

(3) Resolve, address, or respond to issues raised by the public.

(b) In determining whether to hold a public meeting, FSA will consider and determine whether:

(1) There is substantial controversy concerning the environmental impact of the proposed action;

(2) There is substantial interest in holding a public meeting;

(3) Another Federal agency or Tribal government has requested a public scoping meeting and their request is warranted; or

(4) The FSA Administrator has determined that a public meeting is needed.

(c) FSA will publish notice of a public meeting, including the time, date and location of the meeting, in the local media or Federal Register, as appropriate, at least 15 days before the first meeting. A notice of a public scoping meeting may be included in a Notice of Intent to prepare an EIS.

(d) If a NEPA document is to be considered at a public meeting, FSA will make the appropriate documentation available to the public at least 15 days before the meeting.