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081117
Dr. Victor M. Ponce
Item 1.
As part of Task 4, "Environmental Impact Asssessment Methodology," the Terms of Reference
list three possible methodologies to identify, appraise, and summarize the environmental impact of a project.
We note that in listing the methodologies, the ToR uses the term "such as," which should be interpreted as "for instance."
The first methodology, or "ad-hoc" methodology, does not apply to this project, because the time frame for the evaluation is not short.
This methodology is particularly suited to projects of lesser importance.
The second methodology is the "check-list" methodology. This methodology is used when opting out for a simplified methodology in lieu of a more detailed
study.
The third methodology, or the "interaction matrix," is the more complete methodology of the three listed as possible examples in the ToR.
We have chosen to adopt the third methodology (the Leopold matrix), which is the most comprehensive of the three listed in the ToR.
In addition, we have chosen the Battelle EES methodology, to complement the EIS with this
recognized way of evaluating
impacts. Thus, we have chosen the third methodology stated in the ToR and an additional fourth methodology. We did not consider necessary to explain
in the report why the first two metodologies were not chosen. The ToR implies that if the third methodology is selected, the first two are not needed.
Item 2.
The report for Task 4 is preliminary, in order to choose a methodology or framework for the evaluation.
The final list of actions will be chosen as part of Task 5.
Nothing meaningful will be left out of the process in the execution of Task 5.
Item 3.
The report for Task 4 is preliminary. The report clearly says:
"On a preliminary basis, pending additional information, the parameters for which evaluation is envisioned are highlighted in red."
Item 4.
The report for Task 4 was submitted so that GRL can evaluate it and provide comments.
The ToR states: "The Contractor, in consultation with GRL, shall select the most appropriate methodology to employ."
It is up to GRL, in a timely fashion, to provide appropriate comments on the preliminary Task 4 report.
After comments are made available, a revised version will be prepared.
Item 5.
Stakeholder participation in the development of the EIA methodology is to be coordinated by GRL, after proper review of the preliminary Task 4 report.
We recommend that the stakeholder participation be done in a timely fashion, so that Task 5 can be carried out without delay.
Item 6.
As stated in the ToR, CONAM's requirements will be fully taken into account as part of Task 5.
If necessary, a revised version of the Task 4 report will be prepared after the Consultant's visit in January 2009.
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