(1) Preparation of draft and final EISs and SEISs is the responsibility of the environmental review section. Before the department issues an EIS, the responsible official shall be satisfied that it complies with these rules and chapter 197-11 WAC.

(2) The department normally will prepare its own draft and final EISs. It may require an applicant to provide information that the department does not possess, including specific investigations. However, the applicant is not required to supply information that is not required under these rules.

(3) If the department would be unable to prepare a draft and/or final EIS due to its commitments or other constraints or when a local agency transfers lead agency status to the department under WAC 197-11-940, the department may allow an applicant the following option for preparation of the draft and/or final EIS for the applicant's proposal:

(a) The department retains a mutually agreed upon and independent outside party to prepare the document.

(b) The applicant and the department agree upon a method of funding in which the applicant will bear the expense of the EIS preparation, but the consultant will work directly for the department.

(c) The outside party will prepare the document under the supervision of the environmental review section and the responsible official.

(d) Normally, the department will print and distribute the documents.

(4) Whenever someone other than the department prepares a draft or final EIS, the department shall:

(a) Direct the areas of research and examination to be undertaken and the content and organization of the document.

(b) Initiate and coordinate scoping, ensuring that the individual preparing the EIS receives all substantive information submitted by any agency or person.

(c) Assist in obtaining information on file with another agency that is needed by the person preparing the EIS.

(d) Allow the person preparing the EIS access to department records relating to the EIS (under chapter 42.17 RCW—Public disclosure and public records law).