The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking public comment on a draft Environmental Assessment (EA) for Middle Bass Island Marina, located in Ottawa County, Ohio. Two action alternatives are evaluated in the EA, along with the “No Action” alternative required under National Environmental Policy Act.
The preferred alternative includes renovation of the existing marina basin to improve the environmental quality of the basin, provide modern marina facilities for up to 360 seasonal and transient boat slips, convert existing open space to useable park areas for day-use, and provide camping and public fishing access. A second alternative being considered is to renovate the existing marina basin, to provide modern marina facilities for up to 512 seasonal and transient boat slips, convert existing open space to useable park areas for day-use, and provide camping and public fishing access.
Under the “No Action” alternative, no changes would be made to the marina.
The project is proposed by the Ohio Division of Watercraft for partial funding through the Boating Infrastructure Grant Program, administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Projects funded by the Service are required to comply with NEPA and other associated federal requirements, including the Historic Preservation Act and the Endangered Species Act.
The draft EA is available on the Web at: http://www.ohiodnr.com/watercraft. Printed copies of the draft EA are also available from:
Phil Miller, Section Administrator
ODNR Division of Watercraft
2045 Morse Road, Bldg. A-2
Columbus, OH 43229-6693
614-265-6497
614-267-8883 (fax)
