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CHAPTER 5 Alternatives 5.1 Introduction The purpose of the alternatives analysis in an environmental impact statement(EIR) is to describe W. a range of reasonable alternatives to the project, or to the project location, that could feasibly attain most of the objectives of the project, but would avoid or substantially lessen any of the significant effects of the project,and to evaluate the comparative merits of the alternatives (CEQA Guidelines, Section 15126.6[a]). Additionally, Section 15126.6 (b) of the CEQA Guidelines requires consideration of alternatives that could reduce to a less-than-significant level or eliminate any significant adverse environmental effects of the Vernalis Quarry Mining and Reclamation Project(project), including alternatives that may be more costly or could otherwise impede to some degree the attainment of 6. the project's objectives.The range of alternatives considered must include those that offer substantial environmental advantages over the project and may be feasibly accomplished in a I successful manner considering economic,environmental, social,technological, and legal factors. 5.1 .1 Factors in Selection of Alternatives low The CEQA Guidelines suggest, but do not explicitly require,that an EIR should briefly describe the rationale for selecting the alternatives to be discussed, identify any alternatives that were considered by the lead agency but were rejected as infeasible, and briefly explain the reasons underlying the lead agency's determination [CEQA Guidelines, Section 15126.6(c)]. The alternatives addressed in this EIR were selected in consideration of one or more of the following factors: ►• . The extent to which the alternative would accomplish most of the basic goals and objectives of the project(See Chapter 3,Project Description); r • The extent to which the alternative would avoid or lessen any of the identified significant environmental effects of the project; • The feasibility of the alternative,taking into account site suitability, economic viability,availability of infrastructure, General Plan consistency,and consistency with other applicable plans and regulatory limitations; r • The appropriateness of the alternative in contributing to a"reasonable range"of alternatives necessary to permit a reasoned choice;and 116 RMC Pacific Vemalis Quarry Mining and Reclamation Project 5-1 ESA/203015 Draft Environmental Impact Report May 2006 ho