EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska -- The Department of the Air Force (DAF) is proposing to implement preconstruction activities (Proposed Action) to support the development of the microreactor pilot project at Eielson Air Force Base (AFB). DAF is preparing an Environmental Assessment (EA) under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) to consider potential impacts from implementing this proposed action. This notice is being issued by DAF to notify the public of the proposal and to request community feedback.
Project Scope and Preconstruction Activities
The Proposed Action consists of site preparation activities such as vegetation clearing and grubbing, soil excavation, fill, and grading to prepare a level site for future construction. It also includes the construction of buildings and structures that would support the general operations and maintenance of the proposed microreactor, if selected for implementation.
Additionally, the Proposed Action includes utility and infrastructure improvements at various locations on Eielson AFB to support future operations. These activities will be implemented entirely within the existing boundaries of Eielson AFB and will not involve changes to the number of military or civilian personnel assigned to the base, nor will they alter the base’s mission or operational activities.
Wetlands and Floodplain Impact Mitigation
Elements of the Proposed Action have the potential to occur in wetlands and floodplains on Eielson AFB. The extent of these impacts will depend on the final locations of cleared areas and constructed facilities. These locations will be further refined as project planning and design continue.
DAF will take steps to prevent or minimize the impact of floods on human safety, health, and welfare, and to preserve wetland and floodplain values. Erosion and stormwater control best management practices will be strictly implemented during the project to minimize impacts.
This notice is required by Section 2(a)(4) of Executive Order 11988, “Floodplain Management,” Section 2(b) of Executive Order 11990, “Protection of Wetlands,” and DAF Manual 32-7003 for actions proposed in wetlands and floodplains. As part of the EA process, Eielson AFB will coordinate with state and federal regulatory agencies, such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Alaska State Historic Preservation Office, for their input and expertise on the Proposed Action with respect to potential impacts on floodplains, wetlands, and other resources.
Public Comment Period
DAF requests public comments to determine if there are concerns regarding the project’s potential to impact wetlands and floodplains. The Proposed Action will be analyzed in the forthcoming EA, which the public will have an additional opportunity to comment on once the draft is officially released.
Public comments on potential wetland and floodplain impacts will be accepted through Sept. 30, 2026.
Comments may be submitted to the Eielson Air Force Base Public Affairs Office via:
This notice is also available for online review at: https://www.eielson.af.mil/General-Information/Environmental/.
Privacy Advisory Notice
Public commenting allows the DAF to make better, informed decisions. Letters or other written or oral comments provided may be published in the EA. As required by law, comments will be addressed in the final document and made available to the public.
Providing personal information is voluntary. Any personal information provided will be used only to identify your desire to make a statement during the public comment portion of any public meetings or hearings, or to fulfill requests for copies of the EA. Private addresses will be compiled to develop a mailing list for those requesting copies; however, only the names of individuals making comments and their specific comments will be disclosed. Personal home addresses and phone numbers will not be published in the final EA.