• Rosenberg, D. M.
  Canada Dept. of Fisheries & Oceans
  
• Resh, V. H.
  Department of Entomologicial Sciences, University of California
  

The objectives of this paper are to characterize an  "ideal" environmental  impact assessment (e.i.a.); to review the contemporary  status of e.i.a. for several major activities and areas of  development;  and  to  identify  successes,  failures ;and  future  needs  in  e.i.a .

The institutional procedures to be followed for e.i.a. have been formalized in a number of countries, but the scientific basis and methods are still developing . We propose that the following elements comprise an ideal e.i .a.: (1) definition of scientific objectives, (2) back­ground preparation, (3) identification of main impacts, (4) prediction of effects, (5) formula­tion of usable recommendations, (6) monitoring and assessment, (7) sufficient lead time, (8) public participation,  (9) adequate  funding,  and  (10) evidence  that  recommendations were