September 2023
NOAA’s Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research (OAR) proposes to construct and operate a phased array radar (PAR) system in Norman, Oklahoma. The rotating planar dual-polarization PAR would be installed at NOAA’s National Severe Storms Laboratory (NSSL) near the University of Oklahoma’s Max Westheimer Airport in order to conduct additional research on its meteorological capabilities and determine the feasibility of using PAR technology to replace the Weather Surveillance Radar – 1988 Doppler (WSR-88D) radar system. The Proposed Action includes four primary components: acquisition of a property lease at the Norman site, acquisition of the radar test article (RTA) and construction of the radar test facility (RTF), operation and maintenance of the PAR system, and relocation of an existing calibration tower located near the proposed and existing PAR systems operated by the NSSL, if necessary. NOAA is considering two alternatives: the Preferred Alternative, which would implement the Proposed Action; and the No Action Alternative, which would not implement the Proposed Action but provides a comparative baseline for potential impacts as required under CEQ regulations.
The Final EA evaluates the potential impacts on the environment from implementing the Proposed Action. The evaluation concludes there would be no significant impact, either individually or cumulatively, as a result of implementing the Proposed Action, which includes compliance with all federal and state laws and regulations, including consultation and permitting, and routine best management practices.