Why are cooperating agencies necessary in the NEPA process?
In the American political system, different spheres of government—federal, tribal, state, and local—have respective areas of responsibility, authority, and expertise. NEPA calls on federal, state, and local governments to cooperate with the goal of achieving “productive harmony” between humans and their environment by allowing federal agencies (as lead agencies) to invite tribal, state, and local governments, as well as other federal agencies, to serve as cooperating agencies in the preparation of environmental impact statements. The Forest Service has a large and complex responsibility in managing a portfolio of public lands that encompass varied terrain, from desert landscapes to the open spaces surrounding many rapidly growing urban areas. The challenge is to manage this portfolio on behalf of all Americans, while recognizing the considerable local and regional consequences its decisions may have. The Forest Service must act in conformity with federal laws, regulations, and policies
