Public participation is an important part of protecting wildlife, communities, and the natural world that sustains us all. Public comments help agencies understand how proposed projects, policies, and regulations may affect people and the environment.
Below are current opportunities to submit comments on projects and proposals affecting Massachusetts communities and ecosystems.
Not sure where to start? These resources can help.
Public Participation Resources
Tips for Effective Comments
- Explain why the issue matters to you, your community, or wildlife.
- Use your own words whenever possible.
- Be specific about concerns and recommendations.
- Focus on issues that are important to you.
- Personal experiences and local knowledge can be especially valuable.
Questions? Contact BEAT at [email protected].
Take Action: Current Comment Opportunities
Last updated: June 23, 2026
Algonquin Gas Transmission Enhancement (AGTE / R.A.R.E.)
What is this project?
Algonquin Gas Transmission (AGT) has proposed the Algonquin Gas Transmission Enhancement project, also known as Reliable Affordable Resilient Enhancement (R.A.R.E.). The proposal would expand portions of the existing gas transmission system at several locations in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut. The project includes pipeline upgrades and improvements at compressor facilities.
- Open Comment Opportunities
- Agency: Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) Office
- Project Number: EEA #17074
- Deadline: June 30, 2026
- View BEAT Comment Guide
- Agency: Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC)
- Docket: PF26-7
- Deadline: July 6, 2026
- View BEAT Comment Guide
1. Massachusetts MEPA Environmental Notification Form. MEPA comments help identify potential environmental impacts that should be evaluated before state permits are issued.
2. FERC Scoping Comments. Comments submitted during the pre-filing process help determine the issues FERC will analyze during its environmental review.
Cape Cod Canal Pipeline Relocation Project
What is this project?
Algonquin proposes to remove existing bridge-mounted National Grid gas pipelines crossing the Cape Cod Canal and replace them with larger, higher-pressure pipeline infrastructure installed beneath the canal. BEAT has expressed concerns that the project would increase gas transmission capacity at a time when Massachusetts law requires substantial reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and a transition away from fossil fuels.
- Open Comment Opportunity
- Agency:** Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC)
- Docket: CP25-552
- Deadline: June 29, 2026
- View BEAT Comment Guide
FERC Environmental Assessment Comments – >FERC is currently accepting comments on the Environmental Assessment for the project.
FERC Proposed Changes to Blanket Permitting Rules
What is this proposal?
FERC is proposing changes to its “blanket certificate” rules for natural gas infrastructure projects. Blanket certificates allow certain projects to move through a streamlined approval process. The proposed rule changes would significantly increase the size of projects eligible for this streamlined process and would allow compressor stations, pipeline loops, and liquefied natural gas (LNG) facilities to qualify for blanket authorization for the first time.
- Open Comment Opportunity
- Agency: Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC)
- Docket: RM25-12-01
- Deadline: July 27, 2026
- View BEAT Comment Guide