PREFACE 



This report is intended to concisely summarize Federal regulatory 

 programs affecting OCS oil and gas leases and related offshore and 

 onshore development. It is designed to explain where and how the Fish 

 and Wildlife Service influences Federal decisions about environmental 

 protection. 



This report is presented in three segments, i.e.. Fish and Wildlife 

 Service , Outer Continental Shelf Oil and Gas , and Onshore and Nearshore 

 Development Management . These segments are primarily concerned with 

 the rules and procedures that govern OCS-related operations and relate 

 to or are affected by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS). 



Fish and Wildlife Service functions are defined by law and regula- 

 tion. The regulatory process affects the scope of FWS activities, their 

 timing, and procedures. It sets the limits for FWS procedures and ad- 

 vice on problems identifiable with FWS programs. 



In recent years FWS responsibilities have grown with the expansion 

 of OCS leasing activity. FWS is now charged to assist Interior agencies 

 and the oil and gas industry in the leasing process. At the same time, 

 they cooperate with environmentalists, other Federal agencies, coastal 

 zone planners and other state and local officials. 



The text is designed to be read as an overview of the subject, 

 while tabular material, technical footnotes and appendices will supply 

 references for those who need more detailed information. 



John S. Banta 

 Senior Associate 



