Before occupying the area of operation, if the tactical situation allows, commanders should conduct which survey?

• A. Economic impact assessment
• B. Cultural heritage survey
• C. Environmental baseline survey (EBS)
• D. Military logistics survey

Answer: (C)

Environmental Baseline Survey (EBS) is the pre-occupation check that establishes the current state of the environment—soil, water, air, vegetation, wildlife, and any protected areas or culturally sensitive resources. Conducting this survey before occupying the area creates a reference point so you can detect and quantify any environmental changes caused by operations, guiding planning to minimize harm and informing restoration and accountability afterward. While economic impact, cultural heritage, and military logistics surveys have their roles, they do not establish the essential baseline for natural resources and ecological conditions needed to protect the environment and comply with applicable laws.