In an effort to determine how a proposed renewable fuels facility near Ferndale would affect the environment, the Department of Ecology and Whatcom County will jointly develop an environmental impact statement (EIS).
Ecology and the county are inviting the public to comment on the scope of the EIS. At the same time, Whatcom County is taking comments on a Notice of Application for a Major Project Permit for the proposed facility.
Green Apple Renewable Fuels, LLC, is proposing to co-locate the facility at the existing Phillips 66 Ferndale Refinery. The facility would process fats, cooking and vegetable oils, and grease into renewable fuels.
Ecology and the county are seeking input from the public through Feb. 18, 2020, on what should be included in the environmental review. This initial stage is called scoping. Public comments will be considered to determine the final scope of the environmental impact statement.
The comment period for the EIS scope will be combined with a Whatcom County comment period on Green Apple’s application for a county Major Project Permit.
The EIS will examine the probable, significant, and adverse impacts resulting from the construction and operation of the proposed project. This includes impacts to both the natural environment and nearby communities through study of air quality, plant and animal habitat, transportation, and cultural resources. The EIS will also analyze how impacts can be reduced or eliminated through mitigation.
The public can review project information and submit comments on the scope of the EIS and the Notice of Application online, or in person at one of three public meetings:
Tuesday, Feb. 4
Anacortes High School Commons
1600 20th St., Anacortes
Wednesday, Feb. 5
Whatcom Community College - Syre Auditorium
235 W Kellogg Rd., Bellingham
Thursday, Feb 6
Ferndale Events Center
5715 Barrett Rd, Ferndale
A draft EIS is expected to be available for public review and comment early in 2021.
An EIS is an impartial, comprehensive study used as a resource for decision-makers and the public. Permit decisions will be made after completion of the EIS.