American and
Crooked River
Final
Environmental Impact Statement
March 2005
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American River/Crooked River-Environmental Impact Statement
ORGANIZATION OF THIS DOCUMENT
THIS DOCUMENT IS ORGANIZED INTO FOUR CHAPTERS AND SUPPORTING INFORMATION AS FOLLOWS:
CHAPTER 1 - DESCRIBES THE PURPOSE AND NEED FOR ACTION, THE PROPOSED ACTION, AND THE
SCOPE OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS.
CHAPTER 2 - DESCRIBES THE ISSUES ASSOCIATED WITH THE PROPOSED ACTIONS AND PRESENTS
AND COMPARES ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED ACTION.
CHAPTER 3 - DESCRIBES THE PHYSICAL, BIOLOGICAL, AND SOCIAL SETTING OF THE ANALYSIS AREA
AS THEY EXIST TODAY AND ARE TRENDING TOWARDS INTO THE FUTURE BASED ON IMPLEMENTATION
OF ANY OF THE ALTERNATIVES DESCRIBED IN CHAPTER 2, INCLUDING THE NO ACTION.
CHAPTER 4 - LISTS THE INDIVIDUALS INVOLVED IN THE PREPARATION OF THIS DOCUMENT.
APPENDICES - PROVIDE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FOR THE READER AND INCLUDES A MAP LIST,
GLOSSARY, REFERENCES, AND ADDITIONAL SUPPORTING INFORMATION.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its programs
and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability,
political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. (Not all prohibited bases
apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for
communication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should
contact USDA's TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TDD).
To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room
326-W, Whitten Building, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-
9410 or call (202) 720-5964 (voice and TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider
and employer.
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American River/Crooked River -Environmental Impact Statement
NEZ PERCE NATIONAL FOREST
RED RIVER RANGER DISTRICT
IDAHO COUNTY, IDAHO
LEAD AGENCY: USDA FOREST SERVICE
RESPONSIBLE OFFICIAL: JANE L COTTRELL
FOREST SUPERVISOR
ROUTE 2 Box 475
GRANGEVILLE, ID 83530
208-983-1950
FOR FURTHER
INFORMATION: SCOTT RUSSELL OR TERRY NEVIUS
PROJECT MANAGER DISTRICT RANGER
NEZ PERCE NATIONAL FOREST RED RIVER RANGER DISTRICT
ROUTE 2 Box 475 NEZ PERCE NATIONAL FOREST
GRANGEVILLE, ID 83530 P.O. Box 416
208-983-1950 ELK CITY, ID 83525
208-842-2245
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American River/Crooked River-Environmental Impact Statement
SUMMARY
The Forest Service has prepared this draft environmental impact statement to disclose
potential effects of the proposed action and the alternatives to the proposed action within and
surrounding the American and Crooked River project area in compliance with the National
Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and other relevant Federal and State laws and regulations
The project area is located within the Red River Ranger District on the Nez Perce National
Forest in Idaho. This Final Environmental Impact statement discloses direct indirect and
cumulative environmental impacts and irreversible or irretrievable commitments of resources
that would result from implementation of the proposed action and alternatives.
The project area is located in two separate areas within the Nez Perce National Forest in
Idaho County. Portions of the American and Crooked River watersheds are contained in the
project area boundary and are located in the Clearwater Mountains of the Rocky Mountain
physiographic province. The American River watershed is located north and northeast of Elk
City, while the Crooked River watershed is located west and southwest of Elk City The
project area, which encompasses approximately 39,000 acres, lies north and east of the town
of Orogrande and includes National Forest System lands around the Elk City Township.
PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES
The purpose of the project is to reduce existing and potential forest fuels, create conditions
that will contribute to sustaining long-lived fire tolerant tree species (ponderosa pine, western
larch) and contribute to the economic and social well-being of people who use and reside
within the surrounding area.
The Forest Plan provides direction for the management of the American and Crooked River
project area and the desired future condition. The purpose and need for this project was
determined after comparingJhe desired future condition and the existing condition of the
American and Crooked River project area. The area's existing condition was determined
using field data and the findings and recommendations from the South Fork Clearwater River
Landscape Assessment (SFLA). It is important to note that the South Fork Clearwater River
Landscape Assessment is not a decision document and the recommendations contained
within the SFLA were considered as recommendations and not direction. This analysis
addresses only a few of the overall package of actions that were recommended in these
documents.
THE OBJECTIVES OF THIS PROJECT ARE TO:
Promote the health and vigor of timber stands and improve the environment for long-lived, fire
resistant species by reducing densities of lodgepole pine or other small diameter trees'that
provide fuel ladders for development of crown fires,
Increase relative proportions of long-lived, fire resistant tree species by restoring or
regenerating to western larch, ponderosa pine, and by protecting large diameter ponderosa
pine, Douglas fir, and western larch,
Reduce the risk of large-scale crown fire spread by creating vegetative patterns, including fuel
breaks and safety areas, through harvest or silvicultural treatments, that would increase fire
suppression and management effectiveness, and
Reduce the likelihood of severe local fire effects by removing dead, dying, and downed trees
that would otherwise result in high fuel loading.
Page IV
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American River/Crooked River-Environmental Impact Statement
THE PROPOSED ACTION
The American-Crooked River Project proposes to treat up to 3,452 acres with 1,170 acres in
the American River Watershed and 1,816 acres in the Crooked River watershed. The
watershed restoration associated with this project would includes various types of restoration,
such as up to 24.6 miles of road improvement for watershed improvement of which 16.6 miles
is required with 8 miles approved as funding allows. Soil restoration on up to 58 acres is
proposed with 32 acres of soil restoration required. The following table is a summary of
proposed activities associated with this project. Two numbers in the column divided by a slash
indicate the amount of required first and additional projects (dependent on available funding)
second.
THE ISSUES
The Forest Service worked closely with the public to identify issues and concerns. A comment
period last fall produced 20 letters from the public, and state and federal agencies. These
responses were condensed into two substantive issue areas. These are effects to -water
quality and fish habitat and the fuel reduction effectiveness. There are no impacts to terrestrial
threatened and endangered species, and heritage resources, but a summary of impacts are
listed below in the general projects impacts of interest, because some commenters had an
interest in these areas.
THE ALTERNATIVES
The alternatives in this document were analyzed by their effect to the substantive issue areas.
Indicators were developed to compare the effects. A summary of the effects can be found in
the following section. The summary table below describes the treatments. It shows the total
acres to be treated by alternative. Alternative D, (the preferred alternative) includes both
required watershed restoration actions, and additional watershed restorations actions that
have been analyzed and may be implemented if funding is available. The minimum watershed
restoration that will be completed as part of this alternative is what is displayed as required. If
funding is available, the watershed restoration could be up to the amount in Alternative E, and
is displayed as additional.
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American River/Crooked River-Environmental Impact Statement
TABLE 0.1: - COMBINED ALTERNATIVE OVERVIEW FOR AMERICAN/CROOKED RIVER WATERSHEDS
Proposed Activity - Total Project
Acres of
Treatment
Cable Yard/Broadcast Burn
Roadside Salvage
Total Acres Treated
Percent Clearcut
Percent Partial Cut/Thin
Wildland Urban Interface
Miles of Temporary Road Construction^
Miles of Road Reconditioning3
AltB
1,138
945
467
2,550
42%
58%
559
8.0
79.4
AltC
1,172
1,095
477
2,744
42%
58%
731
14.3
803
1,813
1,173
466
3,452
34%
66%
1113
14.3
90.5
901
780
475
2,156
28%
72%
290
5.4
74.3
Watershed Restoration Package Improvements
Miles (acres) of Decommissioned Roads4
Miles of Watershed Road Improvement5
Number of Sites
of Watershed Road Improvement
Stream Crossing Improvements0
Miles of Instream Improvements
Miles of Recreation and Trail Improvements
Acres of Recreation and Trail Improvements
Acres of Mine Site Reclamation
Acres of Soil Restoration in addition to road
decommissioning
Access change for vehicle use - motorized trail use
(ATV) to restricted use (miles)7
Miles of Access change for vehicle use"
13.9
(56)
16.0
1
10
10.3
2.3
0.1
7
18
2.6
1.6
17.3
(69)
16.6
3
10
11.1
2.3
8.1
7
26
2.6
1.6
18.9/18.1
(73/74)
16.6/8
3
13/21
11.1/3.5
2 3/2 3
8.1
7/2
32/26
2.6
1.6
37
(147)
24.6
3
34
14.6
4.6
8.1
9
58
2.6
1.6
Employment Opportunities
Job Years9
163
188
250
152
Alternative D has additional restoration that could be implemented if funding were available. First figure is
required watershed improvement projects only; second figure is additional watershed improvement projects.1 This
is an access change, which restricts use to two wheeled vehicles or snowmobiles over snow from previous all
terrain vehicle use (ATV). ' '
Temporary roads would be decommissioned within one to three years of construction.
3 This category includes a range of activities, such as surface blading, drainage repair, and roadway brushing with
occasional culvert installations, slump repairs, and stabilization work. The roadwork in this category is primarily for
the purpose of timber removal.
4
Road decommissioning for this project covers a range of activities, from recontouring to abandonment due to
grown in conditions. See Appendix D
Some of the roadwork in this category is also included in the Miles of Road Reconditioning category in this table.
Although this roadwork is primarily for the purpose of timber removal, it will also result in an improvement in
watershed health.
Stream crossing improvements include upgrading or improving culverts and bridges to improve fish passage and
peak water flows and are listed as the number of sites.
This is an access change, which restricts use to two wheeled vehicles or snowmobiles over snow, from previous
all terrain vehicle use (ATV).
8 This category includes 1.5 miles of road-to-trail conversion.
9 Direct Employment Opportunities, year-long.
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American River/Crooked River-Environmental Impact Statement
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER/SECTION
CHAPTER 1
1.0. INTRODUCTION
1.1. PROJECT AREA LOCATION
1 .2. PROPOSED ACTION
1 .3. PURPOSE AND NEED FOR ACTION
1 .4. PLANNING AND DIRECTION
1.5. PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT
1.6. ISSUES
1.7. DECISIONS To BE MADE
CHAPTER 2
2.0 INTRODUCTION
2.1 ISSUE DEVELOPMENT
2.2 DESCRIPTION OF ALTERNATIVES
2.3 COMPARISON OF ALTERNATIVES, OBJECTIVES SUMMARY, MITIGATION, AND MONITORING
CHAPTER 3
3.0 INTRODUCTION
3.1. SOILS
3.1.1. AMERICAN RIVER
3.1.1.1. ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS: SOIL PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
3.1.1.2. ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS: SOIL CHEMICAL AND BIOLOGICAL PROPERTIES
3.1.2. CROOKED RIVER
3.1.2.1. ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS: SOIL PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
3.1.2.2. ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS: SOIL CHEMICAL AND BIOLOGICAL PROPERTIES
3.2. WATERSHED
3.2.1. AMERICAN RIVER
3.2.1.1. INDICATOR 1 -WATERSHED CONDITION
3.2.1.2. INDICATOR 2 -WATER YIELD
3.2.1 .3. INDICATOR 3 - SEDIMENT YIELD
3.2. 1 .4. INDICATOR 4 - CHANNEL MORPHOLOGY
3.2.1.5. INDICATOR 5 -WATER QUALITY
3.2.2. CROOKED RIVER
3.2.2.1. INDICATOR 1 -WATERSHED CONDITION
3.2.2.2. INDICATOR 2 -WATER YIELD
3.2.2.3. INDICATOR 3 - SEDIMENT YIELD
3.2.2.4. INDICATOR 4 - CHANNEL MORPHOLOGY
3.2.2.5. INDICATOR 5 - WATER QUALITY
3.2.3. MAINSTEM SOUTH FORK CLEARWATER RIVER
PAGE
1
1
2
2
2
4 '
8
9
11
13
13
15
19
25
37
38
44
48
54
65
70
76
87
97
103
104
106
110
116
117
118
119
121
124
129
130
132
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American River/Crooked River-Environmental Impact Statement
CHAPTER/SECTION
3.2.4. WATERSHED SECTION SUMMARY
3.3. FISHERIES
3.3.1 . AMERICAN RIVER ANALYSIS OF EFFECTS
3.3.1.1. INDICATOR 1 - SEDIMENT/SUBSTRATE ANALYSIS
3.3.1 .2. INDICATOR 2 - LARGE WOODY DEBRIS ANALYSIS
3.3.1.3. INDICATOR 3 -POOL ANALYSIS
3.3.1 .4. INDICATOR 4 - WATER YIELD ANALYSIS
3.3. 1 .5. INDICATOR 5 - WATER QUALITY ANALYSIS (Toxics AND TEMPERATURE)
3.3.1.6. INDICATOR 6 -HABITAT CONNECTIVITY/FISH PASSAGE ANALYSIS
3.3.2. CROOKED RIVER ANALYSIS OF EFFECTS
3.3.2.1. INDICATOR 1 - SEDIMENT/SUBSTRATE ANALYSIS
3.3.2.2. INDICATOR 2 - LARGE WOODY DEBRIS ANALYSIS
3.3.2.3. INDICATOR 3 -POOL ANALYSIS
3.3.2.4. INDICATOR 4 - WATER YIELD ANALYSIS
3.3.2.5. INDICATOR 5 - WATER QUALITY ANALYSIS (Toxics AND TEMPERATURE)
3.3.2.6. INDICATOR 6 - HABITAT CONNECTIVITY/FISH PASSAGE ANALYSIS
3.3.3. CONSISTENCY WITH THE FOREST PLAN AND ENVIRONMENTAL LAW
3.3.4. CONCLUSIONS
3.4. FIRE
3.4.1. INDICATOR 1 - FIRE REGIME
3.4.2. INDICATOR 2 - FUELS
3.4.3. INDICATOR 3 - RISK/HAZARD
3.4.4. IRREVERSIBLE OR IRRETRIEVABLE EFFECTS - FIRE REGIME, FUELS, AND
RISK/HAZARD
3.4.5. SUMMARY
3.5. AIR QUALITY
3.6. RECREATION
3.6.1. AMERICAN RIVER
3.6.1.1. INDICATOR 1 - ROS/SILS
3.6.1 .2. INDICATOR 2 - OTHER RECREATIONAL USES
3.6.2. CROOKED RIVER
3.6.2.1. I NDICATOR1 -ROS/SILS
3.6.2.2. INDICATOR 2 - OTHER RECREATIONAL USES
3.7. WILD AND SCENIC RIVERS
3.7.1. AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT
3.7.2. ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES
3.7.3. SUMMARY
3.8. TRANSPORTATION
3.8.1. AMERICAN RIVER
3.8.1.1. INDICATOR 1 -MILES OF ROAD
3.8.1 .2. INDICATOR 2 - MILES OF TRAILS
PAGE
140
142
169
169
173
173
173
174
175
176
176
179
179
180
180
180
182
188
190
192
194
198
200
200
204
210
215
215
217
218
219
220
225
225
229
230
232
233
233
237
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American River/Crooked River-Environmental Impact Statement
CHAPTER/SECTION
3.8.2. CROOKED RIVER
3.8.2.1. INDICATOR 1 -MILES OF ROAD
3.8.2.2. INDICATOR 2 -TRAILS
3.8.3. CUMULATIVE EFFECTS - AMERICAN AND CROOKED RIVER
3.8.4. IRREVERSIBLE OR IRRETRIEVABLE EFFECTS - AMERICAN AND CROOKED RIVER
3.8.5. SUMMARY OF CUMULATIVE EFFECTS FOR TRANSPORTATION - AMERICAN RIVER AND
CROOKED RIVER
3.9. HERITAGE
3.10. VEGETATION
3.10.1. VEGETATION - AMERICAN RIVER
3.10.1.1. INDICATOR1 - COMPOSITION (COVER TYPE/SPECIES/LAYER/AGE)
3.10.1.2. INDICATOR 2 -DISTURBANCE PATTERNS
3.10.1.3. INDICATOR 3 -RARE PLANTS
3.10.2. CROOKED RIVER
3.10.2.1. INDICATOR 1 - COMPOSITION (COVER TYPE/SPECIES/LAYER/AGE)
3.10.2.2. INDICATOR 2 - DISTURBANCE PATTERNS (SEE SECTION 3.10.1.2.)
3.10.2.3. INDICATOR 3- RARE PLANTS (SEE SECTION 3.10.1 .3)
3.10.3. SUMMARY OF CUMULATIVE EFFECTS FOR VEGETATION
3.10.4. WEEDS.AND NON-NATIVE VEGETATION
3.11. WILDLIFE
3.11.1. INDICATOR 1 - THREATENED OR ENDANGERED SPECIES
3.11.2. INDICATOR 2 - SENSITIVE SPECIES
3.11.3. INDICATOR 3 - OTHER MANAGEMENT INDICATOR SPECIES
3.11.4. INDICATOR 4 -OTHER SPECIES
3.1 1 .5. CUMULATIVE EFFECTS SUMMARY (ALL TERRESTRIAL SPECIES)
3.11.6. IRREVERSIBLE, IRRETRIEVABLE EFFECTS (ALL TERRESTRIAL SPECIES)
3.11.7. OLD GROWTH HABITAT ANALYSIS
3.12. SOCIO-ECONOMIC
3.13. WILDERNESS, INVENTORIED ROADLESS AREAS, AND AREAS WITH POSSIBLE
UNROADED CHARACTERISTICS
CHAPTER 4
4.1. PREPARERS
4.2. DISTRIBUTION LIST
PAGE
246
246
249
256
256
257
264
276
280
281
295
297
312
313
327
327
327
329
336
341
351
382
399
404
408
411
425
433
449
449
450
PAGE
Page IX
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American River/Crooked River-Environmental Impact Statement
APPENDICES
APPENDIX A: MAPS
APPENDIX B: GLOSSARY
APPENDIX C: REFERENCES
APPENDIX D: WATERSHED, FISH HABITAT
APPENDIX E: SUPPORT FOR WATERSHED, FISH HABITAT ANALYSIS
APPENDIX F: ROAD MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES
APPENDIX G: FUEL MODELS
APPENDIX H: TREATMENTS BY ALTERNATIVE
APPENDIX 1: MONITORING PLAN
APPENDIX J: TERRESTRIAL WILDLIFE POPULATIONS VIABILITY SUMMARY RELATED TO
THE AMERICAN AND CROOKED RIVER PROJECT
APPENDIX K: COARSE WOODY DEBRIS, SNAG, AND GREEN TREE RETENTION
GUIDELINES
APPENDIX L: CREATED OPENINGS > 40 ACRES
APPENDIX M: RESPONSE TO COMMENTS RECEIVED ON THE DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACT STATEMENT
APPENDIX N: HABITAT TYPE GROUPS
APPENDIX O: NEZ PERCE NATIONAL FOREST BIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT/EVALUATION -
SUMMARY OF EFFECTS FOR THREATENED PLANT SPECIES - OCTOBER 2004 -
FOR THE AMERICAN RIVER/CROOKED RIVER PROJECT AREA
APPENDIX P: BIOLOGICAL EVALUATION AND ASSESSMENT FOR LISTED AND SENSITIVE
SPECIES (STEELHEAD TROUT, REDBAND TROUT, BULL TROUT, FALL CHINOOK
SALMON, SPRING CHINOOK SALMON, WESTSLOPE CUTTHROAT TROUT, AND
LAMPREY)
APPENDIX Q - BIOLOGICAL EVALUATION AND ASSESSMENT FOR ESA LISTED
TERRESTRIAL WILDLIFE SPECIES
A1-
39
B1-28
C1-24
D1-34
E1-30
F1-14
G1-2 .
H1-8
11-8
J1-
K1-4
L1-2
M1-
i
(
N1-
r
O1-
^
P1-
t
i
01-
r
4.
, z
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American River/Crooked River -Environmental Impact Statement
INDEX OF TABLES
TABLE NUMBER/NAME 1 PAGE
2.1 - Alternatives in the American River Watershed.
2.2 - Alternatives in the Crooked River Watershed.
2.3 - Project Design and Mitigation Measures
2.4 - ALTERNATIVES IN THE AMERICAN AND CROOKED RIVER PROJECT
3.1 - PROJECTS CONSIDERED FOR CUMULATIVE EFFECTS WITHIN AND ADJACENT TO
THE AMERICAN AND CROOKED RIVER PROJECT AREA
3.2- NPNF TIMBER HARVEST HISTORY IN AMERICAN RIVER
3.3 - HISTORIC ROAD CONSTRUCTION - AMERICAN RIVER
3.4 - NPNF TIMBER HARVEST HISTORY IN CROOKED RIVER
3.5 - HISTORIC ROAD CONSTRUCTION - CROOKED RIVER
3.6 - INDICATORS OF SOIL COMPACTION AND DISPLACEMENT - AMERICAN RIVER
3.7 - INDICATORS OF CUMULATIVE COMPACTION AND DISPLACEMENT: AMERICAN
RIVER
3.8 - INDICATORS OF SURFACE AND SUBSTRATUM EROSION
3.9 - INDICATORS OF CUMULATIVE SOIL EROSION: AMERICAN RIVER
3.10 - INDICATOR OF MASS EROSION: AMERICAN RIVER
3.1 1 - INDICATOR OF CUMULATIVE MASS EROSION: AMERICAN RIVER
3.12 - INDICATOR OF COMPLAINCE WITH SOIL QUALITY STANDARDS: AMERICAN
RIVER
3.13- INDICATORS OF SOIL POTASSIUM AND NITROGEN Loss: AMERICAN RIVER
3.14 - INDICATORS OF CUMULATIVE SOIL POTASSIUM AND NITROGEN Loss:
AMERICAN RIVER
3.1 5 -INDICATOR OF Loss OF SOIL WOOD: AMERICAN RIVER
3.16 - INDICATORS OF CUMULATIVE SOIL WOOD Loss: AMERICAN RIVER
3.1 7 -INDICATORS OF SOIL COMPACTION AND DISPLACEMENT: CROOKED RIVER
3.1 8 - INDICATORS OF CUMULATIVE SOIL COMPACTION AND DISPLACEMENT:
CROOKED RIVER
3.19 - INDICATORS OF SOIL EROSION: CROOKED RIVER
3.20 - INDICATORS OF SOIL EROSION: ALTERNATIVE A
3.21 - INDICATORS OF CUMULATIVE SOIL EROSION: CROOKED RIVER
3.22 - INDICATOR OF MASS EROSION: CROOKED RIVER
3.23 - INDICATORS OF CUMULATIVE MASS EROSION: CROOKED RIVER
3.24 - INDICATORS OF DIRECT SOIL EFFECTS BY ALTERNATIVE: CROOKED RIVER
3.25 - INDICATORS OF SOIL POTASSIUM AND NITROGEN Loss: CROOKED RIVER
3.26 - INDICATORS OF CUMULATIVE POTASSIUM AND NITROGEN Loss: CROOKED
RIVER
3.27 - INDICATOR OF SOIL WOOD Loss: CROOKED RIVER
3.28 - INDICATORS OF CUMULATIVE SOIL WOOD EFFECTS BY ALTERNATIVE:
22
23
27
35
39
42
42
43
43
54
56
58
60
61
63
64
65
67
68
69
76
78
79
80
81
82
84
85
87
88
89
91
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American River/Crooked River -Environmental Impact Statement
TABLE NUMBER/NAME
CROOKED RIVER
3.29 - FORESTWIDE STANDARDS FOR SOILS
3.30 - NUMBER OF POTENTIALLY AFFECTED WATER USES - AMERICAN RIVER
3.31 - WATERSHED CONDITION INDICATORS
3.32 - POST-PROJECT ROAD DENSITY BY ALTERNATIVE
3.33 - PERCENT (%) EGA BY ALTERNATIVE (2005)
3.34 - PERCENT (%) EGA FOR 2005 (INCLUDING EASTSIDE TOWNSHIP PROJECT)
3.35 - PERCENT (%) OVER BASE SEDIMENT YIELD BY ALTERNATIVE
3.36 - PERCENT (%) OVER BASE SEDIMENT YIELD (INCLUDING EASTSIDE TOWNSHIP
PROJECT).
3.37 - SUMMARY OF 2003 WATER TEMPERATURE DATA
3.38 - NUMBER OF POTENTIALLY AFFECTED WATER USES - CROOKED RIVER
3.39 - WATERSHED CONDITION INDICATORS
3.40 - POST-PROJECT ROAD DENSITY BY ALTERNATIVE
3.41 - PERCENT (%) EGA BY ALTERNATIVE (2005)
3.42 - PERCENT (%) EGA FOR 2005 (INCLUDING WHISKEY SOUTH PROJECT)
3.43 - ESTIMATED SEDIMENT YIELD OVER BASE FOR EACH ALTERNATIVE BY
PRESCRIPTION WATERSHED IN CROOKED RIVER
3.44 - PERCENT (%) OVER BASE SEDIMENT YIELD (INCLUDING WHISKEY SOUTH)
3.45 - SUMMARY OF 2003 WATER TEMPERATURE DATA
3.46 - SEDIMENT YIELD FROM AMERICAN AND CROOKED RIVERS TO THE SOUTH
FORK CLEARWATER RIVER
3.47 - SUMMARY OF WATER TEMPERATURE DATA FOR SOUTH FORK CLEARWATER
RIVER
3.48 - COMPLIANCE WITH FOREST PLAN WATER STANDARDS
3.49 - FOREST PLAN STANDARDS FOR WATER QUALITY THAT Do NOT APPLY TO
THIS PROJECT
3.50 - KNOWN AND SUSPECTED DISTRIBUTION OF TROUT, SALMON AND CHAR IN
AMERICAN RIVER
3.51 -AMERICAN RIVER EXISTING CONDITION OF FISH HABITAT INDICATORS
COMPARED TO OBJECTIVES
3.52 - EXISTING CONDITION OF SELECT FISHSED VARIABLES WHICH ARE
RELEVANT TO THE DEPOSITED SEDIMENT INDICATOR
3.53 - EXISTING STREAM CROSSINGS AMERICAN RIVER
3.54 - KNOWN AND SUSPECTED DISTRIBUTION OF TROUT, SALMON AND CHAR IN
CROOKED RIVER
3.55 - CROOKED RIVER EXISTING CONDITION OF FISH HABITAT INDICATORS
COMPARED TO OBJECTIVES
3.56 - EXISTING CONDITION OF SELECT FISHED VARIABLES WHICH ARE RELEVANT
TO THE DEPOSITED SEDIMENT INDICATOR
PAGE
97
104
104
105
107
109
110
114
117
119
120
120
121
123
124
127
130
137
139
141
142
155
160
160
161
163
166
166
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American River/Crooked River -Environmental Impact Statement
TABLE NUMBER/NAME
3.57 - EXISTING STREAM CROSSINGS CROOKED RIVER
3.58 - COMPARISON OF PREDICTED COBBLE EMBEDDEDNESS (CE) BY ALTERNATIVE
3.59 - COMPARISON OF SUMMER REARING CAPACITY (SRC) BY ALTERNATIVE
3.60 - COMPARISON OF WINTER REARING CAPACITY (WRC) BY ALTERNATIVE
3.61 -AMERICAN RIVER MILES OF STREAM WITH IMPROVED ACCESS
3.62 - COMPARISON OF PREDICTED COBBLE EMBEDDEDNESS (CE) BY ALTERNATIVE
3.63 - COMPARISON OF SUMMER REARING CAPACITY (SRC) BY ALTERNATIVE
3.64 - COMPARISON OF WINTER REARING CAPACITY (WRC) BY ALTERNATIVE
3.65 - CROOKED RIVER MILES OF STREAM WITH IMPROVED ACCESS
3.66 - COMPLIANCE WITH FOREST PLAN FISHERIES RESOURCE STANDARDS
3.67 - FOREST PLAN STANDARDS FOR FISHERIES RESOURCES THAT Do NOT APPLY
TO THIS PROJECT
3.68 - FIRE REGIMES ACREAGE IN THE PROJECT AREA
3.69 - CURRENT FUEL MODELS PRESENT IN THE PROJECT AREA
3.70 - PREDICTED FUEL MODELS IN YEAR 2014 BY ALTERNATIVE - AMERICAN
RIVER DRAINAGE
3.71 - PREDICTED FUEL MODELS IN YEAR 2014 BY ALTERNATIVE - CROOKED RIVER
DRAINAGE
3.72 - TREATMENT ACRES LOCATED WITHIN WILDLANDS URBAN INTERFACE (WUI)
3.73 - HAZARD ASSESSMENT FOR PROJECT AREA
3.74 - POST TREATMENT FIRE HAZARD IN YEAR 2014 BY ALTERNATIVE
3.75 - FOREST PLAN COMPLIANCE - FIRE/FUELS
3.76 - BURN TYPE ACREAGE BY ALTERNATIVE
3. 77 -APPROXIMATE ANNUAL EMISSIONS BY ALTERNATIVE, BASED ON 10 YEAR
IMPLEMENTATION
3.78 - FOREST PLAN COMPLIANCE - FIRE/FUELS
3.79 - NEZ PERCE FOREST PLAN VISUAL QUALITY OBJECTIVES, SCENIC INTEGRITY
LEVELS, AND RECREATION OPPORTUNITY SPECTRUM CLASSES FOR THE
AMERICAN AND CROOKED RIVER PROJECT AREA
3.80 - FOREST PLAN COMPLIANCE - RECREATION RESOURCES
3.81 - FOREST PLAN STANDARDS FOR RECREATION AND VISUAL RESOURCES THAT
Do NOT APPLY
3.82 - WILD AND SCENIC RIVERS ACT CRITERIA APPLICABLE TO THE SOUTH FORK
OF THE CLEARWATER
3.83 - OUTSTANDING RESOURCE VALUES APPLICABLE TO THE SOUTH FORK
CLEARWATER RIVER
3.84 - MANAGEMENT DIRECTION FOR ELIGIBLE RIVERS
3.85 - FOREST PLAN COMPLIANCE - WILD, SCENIC, AND RECREATION RIVERS
RESOURCES
3.86 - FOREST PLAN STANDARDS FOR WILD, SCENIC, AND RECREATION RIVERS
PAGE
167
170
170
170
175
176
176
177
181
189
190
193
195
197
197
198
198
199
203
207
208
210
214
223
224
225
228
229
231
231
Page XIII
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American River/Crooked River-Environmental Impact Statement
TABLE NUMBER/NAME
THAT Do NOT APPLY
3.87 - CURRENT ACCESS PRESCRIPTIONS - AMERICAN RIVER ROADS
3.88 - OBJECTIVE MAINTENANCE LEVELS -AMERICAN RIVER ROADS
3.89 - TRAFFIC SERVICE LEVELS - AMERICAN RIVER ROADS
3.90 - ROAD SURFACE TYPE - AMERICAN RIVER ROADS
3.91 - ROAD DECOMMISSIONING AND CORRESPONDING ACCESS CHANGE -
AMERICAN RIVER ROADS
3.92 - ROADWORK ACTIVITY BY ALTERNATIVE - AMERICAN RIVER ROADS
3.93 - SYSTEM TRAILS - AMERICAN RIVER
3.94 - MILES OF TRAILS OPEN TO TRAIL USERS - AMERICAN RIVER
3.95 - ALTERNATIVE B HARVEST UNITS AND TRAILS - AMERICAN RIVER
3.96 - ALTERNATIVE C HARVEST UNITS AND TRAILS - AMERICAN RIVER
3.97 -ALTERNATIVE D, HARVEST UNITS AND TRAILS -AMERICAN RIVER
3.98 - ALTERNATIVE E, HARVEST UNITS AND TRAILS - AMERICAN RIVER
3.99 - ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, AND E - CHANGE IN ACCESS PRESCRIPTION FOR
TRAIL 887
3.100 - CURRENT ACCESS PRESCRIPTIONS - CROOKED RIVER ROADS
3.101 - OBJECTIVE MAINTENANCE LEVELS - CROOKED RIVER ROADS
3.102 - TRAFFIC SERVICE LEVELS - CROOKED RIVER ROADS
3. 1 03 - ROAD JURISDICTION - CROOKED RIVER ROADS
3.104 - ROAD SURFACE TYPE- CROOKED RIVER ROADS
3. 1 05 - ROAD DECOMMISSIONING AND CORRESPONDING ACCESS CHANGE -
CROOKED RIVER ROADS
3. 1 06 - ROADWORK ACTIVITY BY ALTERNATIVE - CROOKED RIVER ROADS
3.1 07 - SYSTEM TRAILS - CROOKED RIVER
3.1 08 - MILES OF TRAILS OPEN TO TRAIL USERS - CROOKED RIVER
3.1 09 - GROOMED SNOWMOBILE TRAIL SYSTEM - CROOKED RIVER
3. 1 0 - ALTERNATIVE B HARVEST UNITS AND TRAILS - CROOKED RIVER
3.11- ALTERNATIVE C HARVEST UNITS AND TRAILS - CROOKED RIVER
3. 1 2 - ALTERNATIVE D HARVEST UNITS AND TRAILS - CROOKED RIVER
3.1 13 - ALTERNATIVE E HARVEST UNITS AND TRAILS - CROOKED RIVER
3.1 14 - ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, AND E - CHANGE IN ACCESS PRESCRIPTION
3.1 15 -MILES OF TRAILS
3.1 16 -AMERICAN RIVER AREA -CHANGES IN TRAIL ACCESS PRESCRIPTIONS
3.117- CROOKED RIVER AREA - CHANGES IN TRAIL ACCESS PRESCRIPTIONS
3.118- UNITS AND TRAILS
3.119- FOREST PLAN COMPLIANCE - ROADS AND TRAILS
3.120 - FOREST PLAN STANDARDS FOR TRANSPORTATION THAT Do No APPLY
3.121 - TIMING AND AVAILABILITY OF PLANT FOODS IN NEZ PERCE TERRITORY
PAGE
234
234
234
2234
236
237
238
238
240
241
243
244
246
246
246
247
247
247
248
249
249
250
250
251
252
253
254
256
257
259
260
261
261
264
266
Page XIV
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American River/Crooked River -Environmental Impact Statement
TABLE NUMBER/NAME
3.1 22 - A SAMPLE OF DREDGING LOCATIONS NEAR THE AMERICAN AND CROOKED
RIVER PROJECT AREA, AND THEIR DATES OF OPERATIONS
3.123 - HISTORICAL CLASSIFICATION AND CHRONOLOGY OF LAND ENCOMPASSING
THE AMERICAN AND CROOKED RIVER PROJECT
3.124 - LIST OF CULTURAL PROPERTIES WITHIN THE AMERICAN AND CROOKED
RIVER PROJECT APE
3. 1 25 - LIST OF CULTURAL PROPERTIES ASSOCIATED WITH THE AMERICAN AND
CROOKED RIVER PROJECT THAT HAVE BEEN DETERMIEND ELIGIBLE FOR THE
NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES
3.126- FOREST PLAN COMPLIANCE- HERITAGE
3.127- FOREST PLAN STANDARDS FOR HERITAGE THAT DO NOT APPLY
3.128- AMERICAN RIVER PORTION DOMINANT COVER TYPES
3.1 29 - UNMANAGED STAND DENSITIES IN THE AMERICAN RIVER AREA
3.130- AMERICAN RIVER PROPORTION OF EXISTING SIZE CLASS
3.131 - KNOWN AND POTENTIAL SENSITIVE PLANTS WITH THE PROJECT AREA
3. 1 32 - COMPARISON OF POTENTIAL SENSITIVE PLANT HABITAT AFFECTED BY
ALTERNATIVE
3.133 - SENSITIVE PLANT EFFECTS DETERMINATIONS
3. 134 -CROOKED RIVER DOMINANT COVER TYPE CODES
3.135 - UNMANAGED STAND DENSITIES IN THE CROOKED RIVER AREA
3. 136 -CROOKED RIVER PROPORTION OF EXISTING SIZE CLASS
3. 1 37 - FOREST PLAN COMPLIANCE - VEGETATION
3.138 - WEED SUSCEPTIBILITY RATING
3. 139 -ACRES OF EXPANSION RISK
3.140 - DISTURBANCE BY ALTERNATIVE
3.141 - PROBABILITY OF WEED SPREAD, RATING MATRIX
3.142 - FOREST PLAN STANDARDS FOR RANGE RESOURCES
3.143- WILDLIFE SPECIES EFFECTS DETERMINATIONS
3.144 - THE No ACTION (ALTERNATIVE A) HABITAT CONDITIONS AND ACREAGE
WITHIN THE LAUS ARE LISTED BELOW
3. 1 45 - SUMMARY OF EFFECTS ON LAD 3020306 (AMERICAN RIVER)
3.146 - SUMMARY OF EFFECTS ON LAU 305001 (CROOKED RIVER)
3.147 - HABITAT ACRES WITHIN AMERICAN AND CROOKED RIVER WATERSHEDS
3.148 - INVENTORY/ANALYSIS DATA FOR GOSHAWK FORAGING AND NESTING
HABITAT
3.149 - ESTIMATED ACRES OF NORTHERN GOSHAWK HABITAT MODIFIED BY EACH
ACTION ALTERNATIVE (AMERICAN RIVER)
3.150 - ESTIMATED ACRES OF NORTHERN GOSHAWK HABITAT MODIFIED BY EACH
ACTION ALTERNATIVE (CROOKED RIVER)
3.151 - ESTIMATED ACRES OF FISHER HABITAT
PAGE
270
271
273
275
275
276
. 283
285
292
299
305
308
314
317
324
329
332
333
333
334
335
339
344
347
347
359
360
362
362
371
Page XV
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American River/Crooked River -Environmental Impact Statement
TABLE NUMBER/NAME
3. 1 52 - DATA AT THREE SCALES FOR PERCENT FISHER SUMMER AND WINTER
HABITAT
3.1 53 - ESTIMATED ACRES OF FISHER HABITAT MODIFIED BY EACH ACTION
ALTERNATIVE (AMERICAN RIVER)
3. 1 54 - ESTIMATED ACRES OF FISHER HABITAT MODIFIED BY EACH ACTION
ALTERNATIVE (CROOKED RIVER)
3.1 55 - ESTIMATED ACRES OF BLACK-BACKED WOODPECKER HABITAT
3.156 - ESTIMATED ACRES OF BLACK-BACKED WOODPECKER HABITAT MODIFIED BY
ACTION ALTERNATIVE
3. 1 57 - PERCENT ELK HABITAT EFFECTIVENESS BY EAU AND ALTERNATIVE
3.158 - ESTIMATED ACRES OF PILEATED WOODPECKER NESTING HABITAT
3.1 59 - FOREST INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS DATA FOR PILEATED WOODPECKER
HABITAT
3.160 - ESTIMATED ACRES OF PILEATED WOODPECKER NESTING HABITAT MODIFIED
BY EACH ACTION ALTERNATIVE (AMERICAN RIVER)
3.161 - ESTIMATED ACRES OF PILEATED WOODPECKER FORAGING HABITAT
MODIFIED BY EACH ACTION ALTERNATIVE (CROOKED RIVER)
3.162 - ESTIMATED ACRES OF PINE MARTEN HABITAT
3.1 63 - FOREST INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS DATA FOR MARTIN HABITAT
3.164 - ESTIMATED ACRES OF PINE MARTEN HABITAT MODIFIED BY EACH ACTION
ALTERNATIVE
3.165- IDAHO PARTNERS IN FLIGHT HIGH PRIORITY SPECIES THOUGHT TO OCCUR
IN THE PROJECT AREA
3.1 66 - AVERAGE PATCH SIZE AND SHAPE OF LARGE TREES
3.167- LARGE TREE ACREAGE CUMULATIVE CHANGES (RETAINED ACRES)
3. 1 68 - FOREST PLAN COMPLIANCE - WILDLIFE RESOURCES
3.1 69 - FOREST PLAN STANDARDS FOR WILDLIFE RESOURCES THAT DO NOT APPLY .
3. 1 70 - SUMMARY OF OLD GROWTH QUALIFYING CRITERIA
3.171 - OLD GROWTH HABITAT IN THE AMERICAN AND CROOKED RIVER DRAINAGES
3. 1 72 - SUMMARY OF OLD GROWTH FIELD EXAMS
3.173 - ESTIMATES OF PERCENT OLD GROWTH FOR LAND MANAGED BY THE NEZ
PERCE NATIONAL FOREST, INCLUDING 90% CONFIDENCE INTERVALS
3.1 74 - SUMMARY OF PERCENT OF OLD GROWTH HABITAT, BASE DON FIA ANALYSIS
FOR AMERICAN AND CROOKED RIVER WATERSHEDS (WITH 90% CONFIDENCE
INTERVAL)
3.1 75 - SUMMARY OF PERCENT OF OLD GROWTH HABITAT, FOREST-WIDE, ON THE
NEZ PERCE NATIONAL FOREST, BASED ON FIA ANALYSIS (WITH 90%
CONFIDENCE INTERVAL)
3.1 75 - PERCENT HARVEST OF HISTORICAL MATURE FORESTS
3. 1 77 - ESTIMATES OF SNAGS PER ACRES FOR LAND MANAGED BY THE NEZ PERCE
NATIONAL FOREST, INCLUDING 90 PERCENT CONFIDENCE INTERVALS
372
374
374
378
379
385
389
390
391
392
395
396
397
400
406
406
409
410
411
414
415
415
416
416
419
421
Page XVI
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American River/Crooked River-Environmental Impact Statement
TABLE NUMBER/NAME
3.1 78 - ESTIMATES OF THE NUMBER OF SNAGS PER ACRE BY DIAMETER GROUP
AND 4™ CODE HUC AND ASSOCIATED CONFIDENCE INTERVALS
3.179 - DIRECT EMPLOYMENT EFFECTS
3. 180 -TOTAL VOLUME
3.181 -DEFINITIONS
3.182 - ECONOMICS - ALTERNATIVE B
3.183 - ECONOMICS - ALTERNATIVE C
3.184 - ECONOMICS - ALTERNATIVE D
3.185 - ECONOMICS - ALTERNATIVE E
3.1 86 - SUMMARY OF ACRES AFFECTED BY THE PROPOSED ACTION
3. 1 87 - NUMBER OF TREATMENT ACRES OFR EACH UNROADED AREA BY
ALTERNATIVE
3. 1 88 - FOREST PLAN STANDARDS FOR WILDERNESS RESOURCES THAT Do NOT
APPLY
A.1 - INDEX OF MAPS
D.1 - SUMMARY OF PROJECTS BY ALTERNATIVE
D.2 - MIDDLE AMERICAN RIVER- EXISTING ROADS TO BE DECOMMISSIONED
D.3 - MIDDLE AMERICAN RIVER - INSTREAM IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS
D.4 - MIDDLE AMERICAN RIVER - RECREATION AND TRAIL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS
D.5 - MIDDLE AMERICAN RIVER - SOIL RESTORATION PROJECTS
' D.6 - UPPER AMERICAN RIVER - EXISTING ROADS TO BE DECOMMISSIONED
D.7 - EAST FORK AMERICAN RIVER - EXISTING ROADS TO BE DECOMMISSIONED
D.8 - EAST FORK AMERICAN RIVER- STREAM CROSSING IMPROVEMENTS
D.9 - EAST FORK AMERICAN RIVER - SOIL RESTORATION PROJECTS
D.10 - KIRKS FORK- EXISTING ROADS TO BE DECOMMISSIONED
D.1 1- KIRKS FORK- WATERSHED ROAD IMPROVEMENTS
D.1 2 - KIRKS FORK - STREAM CROSSING IMPROVEMENTS
D.1 3 - KIRKS FORK - RECREATION AND TRAIL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS
D.1 4 - KIRKS FORK- SOIL RESTORATION PROJECTS
D.1 5 - WHITAKER CREEK- EXISTING ROADS TO BE DECOMMISSIONED
D.1 6 -WHITAKER CREEK -WATERSHED ROAD IMPROVEMENTS
D.1 7 -WHITAKER CREEK -STREAM CROSSING IMPROVEMENTS
D.1 8 -WHITAKER CREEK- INSTREAM IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS
D.1 9 - WHITAKER CREEK- SOIL RESTORATION PROJECTS
D.20 - QUEEN CREEK- EXISTING ROADS TO BE DECOMMISSIONED
D.21 - QUEEN CREEK- STREAM CROSSING IMPROVEMENTS
D.22 - QUEEN CREEK- INSTREAM IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS
D.23 - QUEEN CREEK- SOIL RESTORATION PROJECTS
D.24 - FLINT CREEK - EXISTING ROADS TO BE DECOMMISSIONED
PAGE
422
426
427
328
429
430
431
432 .
437
443
448
A-1
D-1
D-4
D-4
D-5
DOS
D-6
D-6
D-6
D-7
D-7
D-8
D-8
D-8
D-9
D-9
D-9
D-10
D-10
D-10
D-11
D-11
D-1 2
D-1 2
D-1 3
Page XVII
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American River/Crooked River-Environmental Impact Statement
TABLE NUMBER/NAME
D.25 - FLINT CREEK - STREAM CROSSING IMPROVEMENTS
PAGE
D-14
D.26 - FLINT CREEK - SOIL RESTORATION PROJECTS
D-14
D.27 - Box SING CREEK- EXISTING ROADS TO BE DECOMMISSIONED
D-15
D.28 - Box SING CREEK - WATERSHED ROAD IMPROVEMENTS
D-15
D.29 - Box SING CREEK- STREAM CROSSING IMPROVEMENTS
D-15
D.30 - Box SING CREEK- RECREATION AND TRAIL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS
D-15
D.31 -Box SING CREEK- SOIL RESTORATION PROJECTS
D-16
D.32 - LOWER AMERICAN RIVER - SOIL RESTORATION PROJECTS
D-16
D.33 - LOWER CROOKED RIVER - EXISTING ROADS TO BE DECOMMISSIONED
D-17
D.34 - LOWER CROOKED RIVER - WATERSHED ROAD IMPROVEMENTS
D-18
D.35 - LOWER CROOKED RIVER- STREAM CROSSING IMPROVEMENTS
D-18
D.36 - LOWER CROOKED RIVER - INSTREAM IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS
D-19
D.37 - LOWER CROOKED RIVER - SOIL RESTORATION PROJECTS
D-19
D.38 - RELIEF CREEK- ROADS TO BE DECOMMISSIONED
D-20
D.39 - RELIEF CREEK - WATERSHED ROAD IMPROVEMENTS
D-22
D.40 - RELIEF CREEK - STREAM CROSSING IMPROVEMENTS
D-23
D.41 - RELIEF CREEK- INSTREAM IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS
D-25
D.42 - RELIEF CREEK - SOIL RESTORATION
D-25
D.43 - MIDDLE CROOKED RIVER - ROADS TO BE DECOMMISSIONED
D-26
D.44 - MIDDLE CROOKED RIVER - WATERSHED ROAD IMPROVEMENTS
D-27
D.45 - MIDDLE CROOKED RIVER - STREAM CROSSING IMPROVEMENTS
D-28
D.46 - MIDDLE CROOKED RIVER- INSTREAM IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS
D-29
D.47 - MIDDLE CROOKED RIVER - RECREATION AND TRAIL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS
D-30
D.48 - MIDDLE CROOKED RIVER - MINE SITE RESTORATION
D-31
D.49 - MIDDLE CROOKED RIVER - SOIL RESTORATION PROJECTS
D-32
E.1 - FISHERY/WATER QUALITY OBJECTIVES - AMERICAN RIVER
E-1
E.2 - FISHERY/WATER QUALITY OBJECTIVES - CROOKED RIVER
E-2
E.3 - PERCENT STREAM LENGTH BY GRADIENT CLASSES - AMERICAN RIVER
E-7
E.4 - PERCENT STREAM LENGTH BY GRADIENT CLASSES - CROOKED RIVER
E-7
E.5 - WATER QUALITY DATA - AMERICAN RIVER
E-22
E.6 - WATER QUALITY DATA - CROOKED RIVER
#-22
E.7 - AQUATIC TREND ANALYSIS - AMERICAN RIVER
E-23
E.8 - AQUATIC TREND SUMMARY - AMERICAN RIVER
E-25
E-9 - AQUATIC TREND ANALYSIS - CROOKED RIVER
E-26
E-10-AQUATIC TREND SUMMARY- CROOKED RIVER
E-29
F.1 - EXISTING CONDITION -AMERICAN RIVER
F-3
F.2 - EXISTING CONDITION - CROOKED RIVER
F-7
F.3 - ROADS PROPOSED FOR DECOMMISSIONING BY ALTERNATIVE - AMERICAN
F-12
Page XVIII
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American River/Crooked River -Environmental Impact Statement
TABLE NUMBER/NAME
RIVER
F.4
H.1
H.2
H.3
J.1
J-2
J-3
J-4
J-5
J-6
K-1
K-2
K-3
L-1
- ROADS PROPOSED FOR DECOMMISSIONING BY ALTERNATIVE - CROOKED
RIVER
- TREATMENTS BY ALTERNATIVES - CODES
- AMERICAN RIVER TREATMENTS
- CROOKED RIVER TREATMENTS
- ESTIMATED ACRES OF FISHER HABITAT WITHIN THE AMERICAN AND CROOKED
RIVER DRAINAGES
- FOREST INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS DATA AT THREE SCALES FOR PRECENT
FISHER SUMMER AND WINTER HABITAT, INCLUDING 90% CONFIDENCE
INTERVALS (Cl LOW AND Cl HIGH)
- FOREST INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS DATA AT THREE SCALES FOR PERCENT
GOSHAWK FORAGING AND NESTING HABITAT, INCLUDING 90% CONFIDENCE
INTERVALS (Cl LOW AND Cl HIGH)
- ESTIMATED ACRES OF PINE MARTEN HABITAT WITHIN THE AMERICAN AND
CROOKED RIVER DRAINAGES
- FOREST INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS DATA AT THREE SCALES FOR PERCENT
MARTEN HABITAT, INCLUDING 90% CONFIDENCE INTERVALS (Cl LOW AND Cl
HIGH) .
- FOREST INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS DATA AT THREE SCALES FOR PERCENT
PILEATED WOODPECKER NESTING AND FORAGING HABITAT INCLUDING 90%
CONFIDENCE INTERVALS (Cl LOW AND Cl HIGH)
- RECOMMEND COURSE WOODY DEBRIS PRESCRIPTIONS
-SNAG RETENTION GUIDELINES
- GREEN TREE SNAG-REPLACEMENT GUIDELINES
- UNITS CREATING OPENINGS > 40 ACRES
PAGE
F-14
H-1
H-1
H-5
J-6
J-6
J-9
J-10
J-11
J-12
K-1
K-2
K-3
L-1
Note: Tables not listed here for Appendices P and Q - Biological Assessments.
Page XIX
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American River/Crooked River-Environmental Impact Statement
INDEX OF FIGURES
FIGURE NUMBER/NAME
3.1 -AMERICAN RIVER EGA 1870-2004
3.2 -AMERICAN RIVER EGA 2000-201 2
3.3 - LOWER AMERICAN RIVER SEDIMENT YIELD
3.4 - AMERICAN RIVER SEDIMENT YIELD 1 870-2004
3.5 - AMERICAN RIVER SEDIMENT YIELD 2000-2012
3.6 - CROOKED RIVER EGA 1870-2004
3.7 - CROOKED RIVER EGA 2000-2012
3.8 - LOWER CROOKED RIVER SEDIMENT YIELD
3.9 - CROOKED RIVER SEDIMENT YIELD 1870-2004
3.10 - CROOKED RIVER SEDIMENT YIELD 2000-2012
3.1 1 - SOUTH FORK CLEARWATER RIVER EGA 1870-2004
3.12 - SOUTH FORK CLEARWATER RIVER EGA 2000-2012
3.13- SOUTH FORK CLEARWATER RIVER SEDIMENT YIELD 1 870-2004
3.14 - SOUTH FORK CLEARWATER RIVER SEDIMENT YIELD 2000-201 2
3.15- IDAHO-MONTANA AIRSHEDS
3.16- SLUICE BOX AND MINER AT WORK IN NORTH-CENTRAL IDAHO
3.17- HYDRAULIC OPERATIONS IN PROGRESS AT THE OROGRANDE-FRISCO MINE
3.18 - DREDGE PROCESSING LOW-GRADE PLACER GRAVELS ON THE CROOKED RIVER
ABOUT 1938
3.19- AMERICAN RIVER VRUs
3.20 -AMERICAN RIVER PORTION - PREVIOUS HARVEST
3.21 -AMERICAN RIVER PORTION - DOMINANT SPECIES
3.22 - AMERICAN RIVER PORTION - SIZE CLASS DISTRIBUTION
3.23 - UNMANAGED STAND DENSITIES IN THE AMERICAN RIVER AREA
3.24 - AMERICAN RIVER SIZE CLASS BY ALTERNATIVE
3.25 - CROOKED RIVER VRUs
3.26 - CROOKED RIVER PORTION - PREVIOUS HARVEST
3.27 - CROOKED RIVER PORTION - DOMINANT SPECIES
3.28 - TREE SIZE CLASSES
3.29 - CROOKED RIVER PORTION - DOMINANT TYPE/SIZE
3.30 - CROOKED RIVER PORTION - PERCENT CANOPY COVER
3.31 - CROOKED RIVER PORTION - SIZE CLASS BY ALTERNATIVE
E. 1 - COMPOSITE v PURE WATERSHEDS - AMERICAN RIVER
E.2 - COMPOSITE v PURE WATERSHEDS - CROOKED RIVER
E.3 - ANNUAL HYDROGRAPH
E.4A-H - SEDIMENT YIELD - AMERICAN RIVER
E.5A-H - SEDIMENT YIELD - CROOKED RIVER
E.6A-D - AMERICAN RIVER 2003 WATER TEMPERATURE
E.7A-D - CROOKED RIVER 2003 WATER TEMPERATURE
108
109
111
113
115
122
124
125 .
127
128
133
134
135
136
205
268
268
269
281
282
283
284
285
292
312
313
314
315
316
317
324
E-3
E-4
E-9
E-13
E-16
E-18
E-20
Note: Figures not listed here for Appendices P and Q - Biological Assessments.
Page XX
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Chapter 1 - Purpose and Need
1.0. INTRODUCTION
1.1. PROJECT AREA LOCATION
1.2. PROPOSED ACTION
1.3. PURPOSE AND NEED FOR ACTION
1.4. PLANNING AND DIRECTION
1.5. PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT
1.6. ISSUES
1.7. DECISIONS To BE MADE
1.0. INTRODUCTION
The Forest Service has prepared this Final Environmental Impact Statement to disclose potential,
effects of the proposed action and the alternatives to the proposed action within and surrounding the
American and Crooked River project area in compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act
and other relevant Federal and State laws and regulations. The project area is located within the Red
River Ranger District on the Nez Perce National Forest in Idaho. This Final Environmental Impact
Statement discloses direct, indirect, and cumulative environmental impacts and irreversible or
irretrievable commitments of resources that could result from implementation of the proposed action
and alternatives.
This Final Environmental Impact Statement is prepared according to the format established by
Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) regulations implementing the National Environmental Policy
Act (40 CFR 1500-1508). Chapter 1 explains the purpose and need for the proposed action,
discusses how the American and Crooked River project relates to the 1987 Nez Perce Land and
Resource Management Plan (Forest Plan), and identifies issues raised driving the development of
alternatives. Chapter 2 identifies the significant issues driving the analysis of environmental effects,
describes and compares the proposed action, alternatives to the proposed action, and a no-action
alternative. It also compares the alternatives by summarizing their environmental consequences.
Chapter 3 describes the natural and human environments potentially affected by the proposed action
and alternatives, and discloses potential environmental effects. Chapter 4 contains the list of
preparers, followed by the Final Environmental Impact Statement distribution list, appendices
(including literature cited and glossary). The Appendices provide additional information on specific
aspects of the proposed project and alternatives. This Final Environmental Impact Statement
incorporates documented analyses by summarizing and referencing them where appropriate.
-------
American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
The interdisciplinary team made up of Forest Service resource specialists used a systematic
approach for analyzing the proposed project and alternatives to it, estimating the environmental
effects, and preparing this Final Environmental Impact Statement The planning process complies
with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and the CEQ regulations. Planning was
coordinated with the appropriate Federal, State, local agencies, and tribes.
1.1. PROJECT AREA LOCATION
American River and Crooked River are two large watersheds in the upper South Fork Clearwater
River subbasin. The watersheds encompass approximately 59,000 acres and 45,000 acres,
respectively.
The project area is located in two separate areas within the Nez Perce National Forest in Idaho
County. Portions of the American and Crooked River watersheds are contained in the project area
boundary and are located in the Clearwater Mountains of the Rocky Mountain physiographic province.
The American River watershed is located north and northeast of Elk City, while the Crooked River
watershed is located west and southwest of Elk City. The project area, which encompasses
approximately 39,000 acres, lies north and east of the town of Orogrande and includes National
Forest System lands around the Elk City Township.
1.2. PROPOSED ACTION
The Red River District Ranger proposes to implement fuel reduction activities and a range of
watershed improvement activities, likely to begin in the fall of 2005. This project is proposing to
harvest or otherwise treat timber stands of dead, dying, or downed trees and trees at risk of mountain
pine beetle attack (primarily lodgepole pine). Proposed harvesting and associated treatments,
including road treatments, would be conducted in portions of the American and Crooked River
watersheds within the American and Crooked River project area on the Red River Ranger District of
the Nez Perce National Forest, Idaho County, Idaho. Completion of these activities would move the
project area towards a Desired Future Condition as defined in the Nez Perce National Forest Land
and Resource Management Plan (Forest Plan - USDA FS, 1987a). A description of the treatments
follows below and in more detail in Chapter 2 - Alternatives Including the Proposed Action.
1.3. PURPOSE AND NEED FOR ACTION
The purpose of the project is to reduce existing and potential forest fuels, create conditions that will
contribute to sustaining long-lived fire tolerant tree species (ponderosa pine, western larch) and
contribute to the economic and social well-being of people who use, and reside, within the local area.1
1 Based on public response to the DEIS, clarification of the economic and social well-being portion of
the Purpose and Need Statement is provided. Evaluation of alternatives considered a combination of
factors that help define economic and social well-being including:
• Protection of property and infrastructure from potential wildfire effects.
• Economic opportunities.
• Public use and enjoyment of the area associated primarily with:
o Recreation opportunities.
o Fish and wildlife habitat.
o Water Quality.
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The Forest Plan provides direction for the management of the American and Crooked River project
area and the desired future condition. The purpose and need for this project was determined after
comparing the desired future condition and the existing condition of the American and Crooked River
project area. The area's existing condition was determined using field data and the findings and
recommendations from the South Fork Clearwater River Landscape Assessment (USDA FS, 1998a).
The South Fork Clearwater River Landscape Assessment is not a decision document. This analysis
addresses only a few of the overall package of actions that were recommended in these documents.
The objectives of this project are to:
• Promote the health and vigor of timber stands and improve the environment for long-lived, fire
resistant species by reducing densities of lodgepole pine or other small diameter trees that
provide fuel ladders for development of crown fires,
• Increase relative proportions of long-lived, fire resistant tree species by restoring or
regenerating to western larch, ponderosa pine, and by protecting large diameter ponderosa
pine, Douglas fir, and western larch,
• Reduce the risk of large-scale crown fire spread by creating vegetative patterns through
harvest or silvicultura! treatments, that would increase fire suppression and management
effectiveness, and
• Reduce the likelihood of severe local fire effects by removing dead, dying, and downed trees
that would otherwise result in high fuel loading.
CONDITIONS CONTRIBUTING TO THE PURPOSE AND NEED FOR ACTION
In portions of the project area, the forest vegetation is dominated by lodgepole pine that became
established following wildfires that occurred in the early 1900s. Extensive stands of lodgepole pine
are now mature (80 to 130 years old) and susceptible to bark beetle attack. Aerial surveys supporting
the 2003 Zone Entomologist report for the Nez Perce National Forest indicate that mountain pine
beetle infestations in the project" area increased substantially between 1998 and 2002. Beetle activity
is currently intense and expanding. This bark beetle activity is resulting in an expanding number of
dead trees with the potential to carry a severe wildfire over a wide area as these trees fall and
accumulate as dry fuel over the next 10 to 20 years.
Over the past 50 years, Forest vegetation conditions within the analysis area have developed under
limited fire occurrence. Shade-tolerant trees (for example, grand fir, Douglas-fir, and sub alpine fir, in
addition to lodgepole pine) have become established underneath many of the forest stands resulting
in multi-aged stand conditions creating a situation known as a "fuel ladder." Given favorable weather
and fuel moisture conditions, a ground fire could move into the crowns in many of these areas and
result in large intense wildfires.
The proximity of this forest fuels buildup to Elk City as well as private inholdings, residences, and
government facilities within the two watersheds heightens concerns for public safety and potential
property damage if a large wildfire were to occur. A wildfire in the project area, under the developing
fuel conditions, would be expected to have a high potential for adverse effects on natural resources as
well. If the heavy fuel accumulations were to burn under extreme conditions, the large number of
roads in the project area would tend to exacerbate an increase in run-off and associated
sedimentation from the burned area during post-fire precipitation events.
DISCUSSION OF VEGETATION TREATMENTS
Vegetation treatment activities, described previously, would be implemented in patterns to achieve
landscape objectives. These treatments would meet a multitude of integrated, compatible objectives.
They would reduce fuel continuity, vertically and laterally, and promote the regeneration and
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perpetuation of more fire resistant species. Treatments would be compatible with restoring diversity
of patch size, internal stand diversity, and riparian habitat objectives associated with the Forest Plan
standards.
Activities under this proposal would be designed with provisions to mitigate and minimize the risk of
noxious weeds and undesirable non-native plants that are expanding into previously unoccupied
areas of the forest and, where feasible, to reduce existing weed populations.
Activities along Road 233 (Orogrande Road) and other primary routes that service residential and
recreational areas would be designed to improve road maintenance effectiveness, create or maintain
conditions to facilitate a safe and orderly evacuation in case of emergency, and compliment strategic
fuel management objectives by reducing dead, dying, and defective trees as necessary.
To facilitate treatments and mitigate, reduce, or offset the potential effects of the proposed actions, a
series of watershed improvement projects and activities would be developed to meet Forest Plan
standards. These activities would maintain or improve aquatic conditions in the sub-watersheds in the
project area. Watershed improvement activities would include the following:
• reclaiming abandoned mine sites,
• restoring soils and riparian areas damaged by past activities,
• improving instream fish habitat, and
• establishing trees and other vegetation for stream shade.
Logging systems and fuels treatments would be dictated by topography, economics, and the need to
protect residual stands. Logging systems would range from ground-based with hand felling or
mechanized felling, to cable systems with hand felling.
Fuels reduction treatments would be designed to favor desired tree species to be regenerated or
protected. Treatment methods include whole tree yarding, mechanized piling of slash concentrations,
hand piling in selected areas, and broadcast burning in openings (with fire lines constructed to contain
prescribed fire while protecting reserve tree groups or single trees).
This proposal would not treat or directly modify timber stands validated as existing old growth that
currently meet the definition of "old growth" under the Old-Growth Forest Types of the Northern
Region - USDA Forest Service, R-1 SES 4/92, and the Nez Perce National Forest Plan.
This proposal would not mechanically treat vegetation or construct roads in existing inventoried
roadless areas.
No new permanent roads would be constructed under this proposal.
1.4. PLANNING AND DIRECTION
REGULATORY FRAMEWORK
Development of this analysis is based on direction found in the:
• National Forest Management Act (NFMA) and implementing regulations at 36 CFR 219;
• National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and the Council on Environmental Quality and
implementing regulations at 40 CFR 1500-1508;
• National Historic Preservation Act and implementing regulations at 36 CFR 800;
• Clean Water Act (Federal Water Pollution Control Act) and implementing regulations at 40 CFR
130; and
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• Endangered Species Action and implementing regulations at 50 CFR 402.06 and 40 CFR
1502.25.
Other applicable federal laws and executive orders pertaining to project-specific planning and
environmental analysis on federal lands include the:
• Multiple-Use Sustained-Yield Act of 1960,
• Wild and Scenic Rivers Act of 1968 (as amended),
• Clean Air Act of 1970 (as amended),
• Forest and Rangeland Renewable Resources Planning Act (RPA) of 1974 (as amended),
• American Indian Religious Freedom Act of 1978,
• Archeological Resource Protection Act of 1979,
• Cave Resource Protection Act of 1988,
• Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act of 1996,
• Executive Order 11593 (cultural resources), Executive Order 11988 (fioodplains), Executive Order
11990 (wetlands),
• Executive Order 12898 (environmental justice), and
• Executive Order 12962 (aquatic systems and recreational fisheries).
While most pertain to all federal lands, some of the applicable laws are specific to Idaho, and include:
• Idaho State Water Quality Standards,
• Idaho Forest Practices Act,
• Idaho Stream Channel Protection Act, and
• National Historic Reservation Act, 1966.
Disclosures and findings required by these laws and orders are contained in Chapter 3 of this
Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) in the individual resource areas under the regulatory
framework heading.
TIERING AND INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE
This analysis tiers to the Nez Perce Forest Plan Final EIS (USDA FS, 1987a, 1987c) and
amendments; and incorporates information from the Integrated Scientific Assessment for Ecosystem
Management in the Interior Columbia River Basins and Portions of the Klamath and Great Basins
(Quigley, et al. 1996) and the South Fork Clearwater Landscape Assessment (USDA FS, 1998a).
NEZ PERCE NATIONAL FOREST PLAN As AMENDED
This action responds to goals and objectives of the Nez Perce Forest Plan, and helps move the
project area toward desired future conditions described in that plan. The Forest Plan includes forest-
wide goals and objectives, and area-specific (land use designation) goals, objectives, and desired
future conditions. The desired condition for the American and Crooked River project area is to have
the forest components within their historic ranges of variability, restore natural disturbance processes
where feasible, and mimic their effects in other places. Achieving this would ensure that ecologic
processes function more naturally and maintain a resilient ecosystem within the area. Amendment
number 20 of the Forest Plan has added additional management direction as it relates to fisheries and
watershed management
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FOREST PLAN IMPLEMENTATION
, mUSt be consistent with forest Plans prepared under authority of the
.C 1604 3nd 36 CFR219-10]- Forest Plan implementation includes the identification
and scheduling of resource activities (site-specific projects) that meet the direction provided by the
J-orest Plan^ These resource activities are necessary to meet the desired future condition defined in
the Forest Plan.
The desired future conditions described for in the Forest Plan in Chapter 2 as land use designations
in conjunction with the other Forest Plan direction outlined above, provide the parameters for
identifying and defining project-specific desired future conditions. The following desired future
conditions will help guide management of the project consistent with the Forest Plan the significant
issues (described below), and the ecological conditions of the American and Crooked River project
area. J
• Resource outputs will have been provided to help support the economic structure of local
communities (USDA FS, 1987a - 11-1, Goal 1).
• Habitat will have been provided to contribute to the recovery of Threatened and Endangered
plant and animal species in accordance with approved recovery plans and habitat will have
been provided to ensure the viability of those species identified as sensitive (USDA FS 1987a
- 11-1, Goal 4).
• The intrinsic ecological and economic value of wildlife and wildlife habitats will have been
recognized and promoted. A high quality and quantity of wildlife habitat will have been
provided to ensure diversified recreational use and public satisfaction (USDA FS, 1987a - 11-1
Goal 6). '
• Air quality will have been maintained (Forest Plan 11-1, Goal 10).
• Significant historic properties will have been located, protected, and interpreted (USDA FS
1987a- 11-1, Goal 11).
• A stable and cost-efficient transportation system will have been provided through construction,
reconstruction, maintenance, or transportation system management (USDA FS, 1987a - 11-1
Goal 12).
• Resource values will have been protected through cost-effective fire and fuels management
emphasizing fuel treatment through the utilization of material and using prescribed fire (USDA
FS, 1987a- II-2, Goal 13).
• Soil productivity will have been maintained and any irreversible impacts to the soil resource
will have been minimized (USDA FS, 1987a - II-2, Goal 18).
• Stream channel stability and favorable conditions for water flow will have been maintained or
enhanced (USDA FS, 1987a - II-2, Goal 20).
MANAGEMENT AREAS
The Forest Plan defines management area goals and standards that guide resource activities to
achieve the resource objectives for each management area and the Forest. The management area
objectives in the Forest Plan (FP) provide framework for site-specific project planning and
implementation. The Forest Plan contains 26 Forest-wide Management Areas (USDA FS, 1987a - pp
3-1 through 3-67). Seven are represented in the American and Crooked River project area (Table 1-
1). Management areas are not discretely mapped. Forest Plan Management Area maps only indicate
predominate conditions.
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MANAGEMENT AREA 1 (EMPHASIS: MINIMUM MANAGEMENT)
Vegetation and habitats typical of this management area are non-forest and low productivity
forestlands that occur as small dispersed parcels, such as rock outcrops, scree, or areas of shallow
soils along canyons and major drainages. The goal for Management Area 1 (MA1) is to present the
minimum management necessary to provide for resource protection and to ensure public safety by
controlling insects, disease, and noxious weed infestation. Road construction/reconstruction and trail
reconstruction /maintenance are permissible if deemed necessary to meet the multiple use and
management area objectives on adjacent lands (USDA FS, 1987a - III-5). No harvest is proposed on
these types of lands. Restoration type activities could occur as part of the proposed action, which
would be consistent with MA1 goals.
MANAGEMENT AREA 10 (EMPHASIS: TIMBER/RIPARIAN)
Vegetation and habitats of this area consist of lakes, lakeside lands, perennial streams, seasonally
flowing streams supporting riparian vegetation, and adjoining lands that are dominated by riparian
vegetation. The goal of Management Area 10 (MA10) is to:
• Manage riparian areas to maintain and enhance their value for wildlife, fishery and aquatic
habitat, and water quality;
• Manage timber, grazing, and recreation to give preferential consideration to riparian-
dependent species on that portion of the management area "suitable" for timber management,
grazing, or recreation (USDA FS, 1987a - III-30).
No harvest is proposed on these types of lands. Restoration type activities could occur in the
proposed action, which would be consistent with MA10 goals.
MANAGEMENT AREA 12 (EMPHASIS: TIMBER)
Vegetation on this type of area consists primarily of forested lands. The goal for Management Area
12(MA12)isto:
• Manage for timber and other multiple uses on a sustained yield basis;
• Manage for roaded natural recreation (USDA FS, 1987a - III-37).
Harvest is proposed on this type of land and is consistent with MA12 goals.
MANAGEMENT AREA 16 (EMPHASIS: TIMBER/ELK WINTER RANGE)
Management Area 16 (MA16) is described as those lands that provide winter habitat for deer and elk.
The goal for MA16 is to improve the quality of the winter range habitat for deer and elk through timber
harvesting, prescribed burning and other management practices (USDA FS, 1987a - III-46). Harvest
is proposed on this type of land and is consistent with MA16 goals.
MANAGEMENT AREA 17 (EMPHASIS: VISUALS)
Management Area 17 (MA17) consists of lands that have a high to medium degree of visual
sensitivity. The goal is to manage for timber production within the constraints imposed by the visual
quality .objectives (VQOs) of retention or partial retention while providing for other multiple uses and
resources. Roads will maintain adjacent vegetation for screening although vistas may be created
where appropriate (USDA FS, 1987a - III-49). Harvest is proposed on this type of land in a manner
that is consistent with MA17 goals.
MANAGEMENT AREA 20 (EMPHASIS: OLD GROWTH)
At least half of the area described by the designation of Management Area 20 (MA20) consists of
overmature saw-timber (150 years or older). The remainder of the area is comprised of immature
stands (40-80 years) that will provide for replacement old-growth habitat. The goal of MA20 is to
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provide "suitable" habitat (existing and replacement) for old-growth-dependent wildlife species (USDA
FS, 1987a - 11 (-56). No harvest is proposed on these types of lands, only restoration type activities
(such as road decommissioning) would occur in areas with this designation. These activities are
consistent with MA 20 goals.
MANAGEMENT AREA 21 (EMPHASIS: MOOSE WINTER RANGE)
Management Area 21 (MA21) is described as timber stands that are old-growth grand fir-Pacific Yew
vegetative communities identified as moose winter range. The goal for MA21 is to manage the grand
fir-Pacific yew plant communities to provide for a continuing presence of Pacific yew "suitable" for
moose winter habitat. Harvest units are to maintain at least 50 percent of the Pacific Yew
components scattered throughout the unit in patches % to 1/2 acre in size (USDA FS, 1987a - III-58).
Harvest is proposed on this type of land, but it will be consistent with the goals of MA21. Less than 50
acres is proposed for harvest as part of this project and harvest acres will be in small scattered
parcels that will maintain at least 50 percent of the Pacific Yew components.
INTERIOR COLUMBIA RIVER BASIN SCIENCE ASSESSMENT AND THE
SOUTH FORK CLEARWATER LANDSCAPE ASSESSMENT
The Interior Columbia River Basin (ICRB) Science Assessment (Quigley, et a/. 1996) documented the
health of the Upper Columbia River Basin, but did not provide instructions for managing national
forest lands. The report was considered the first step in the development of a scientifically sound,
ecosystem-based management strategy for Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management
administered lands within the Basin.
Nez Perce NF personnel considered the findings from the ICRB Science Assessment and
incorporated them in the South Fork Landscape Assessment (SFLA) where appropriate. The SFLA
(USDA FS, 1998a) characterized the ecological and social conditions in the South Fork Clearwater
Subbasin. This midscale-level assessment, completed in March of 1998, provides context for forest
management decisions in the South Fork Clearwater subbasin. The findings and recommendations
for the American and Crooked River watersheds were reviewed and applied, where appropriate in
preparation of this EIS.
1.5. PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT
SCOPING
The Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) defines scoping as "...an early and open process for
determining the scope of issues to be addressed and for identifying the significant issues related to a
proposed action" (40 CFR 1501.7). Among other things, the scoping process is used to invite public
participation to help identify public issues and obtain public input at various stages of the EIS
development process. Although scoping is to begin early, it is an ongoing process and continues until
a decision has been made. In addition to the following specific activities, the American and Crooked
River project has been listed since July 2003, on the Nez Perce National Forest Schedule of
Proposed Actions, which was mailed to approximately 470 groups and/or individuals. This information
is also available on the Internet at www.fs.fed.us/r1/nezoerce.
Chapter 2 outlines the public scoping process that led to the identification of significant issues and
development of alternatives to the proposed action. The issues are described in this chapter.
Information on other concerns raised during scoping is included in the project file.
To date, the public has been invited to participate in the project in the following ways:
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LOCAL NEWS MEDIA
Announcements about the project were sent to the Lewiston Morning Tribune and Idaho County Free
Press via a news release on September 17, 2003, and information about the project was
subsequently published in both papers. On August 2, 2003, a public discussion was held at
Orogrande to provide project area information, present the proposed action, and discuss local
concerns and interests that should be addressed in the project analysis. Legal notices were
published in the Lewiston Morning Tribune on June 8, 2004, and in the Idaho County Free Press on
June 9, announcing the release of the Draft Environmental Impact Statement.
PUBLIC FIELD TRIP
A public fieldtrip was held on August 28, 2003, to provide project area information, present the
proposed action, and discuss local concerns and interests that should be addressed in the project
analysis.
PUBLIC MAILINGS
On September 15, 2003, a scoping letter providing information and seeking public comment was
mailed to approximately 30 individuals and groups that had previously shown interest in Forest
Service projects on the Nez Perce National Forest. This included Federal and State agencies, the
Nez Perce Tribe, municipal offices, businesses, interest groups, and individuals. The Forest Service
received 20 responses to this mailing. On June 8, 2004 the DEIS was mailed to individuals and
organizations that had provided scoping comments or requested a copy of the document
NOTICE OF INTENT (NOD
A Notice of Intent was published in the Federal Register on September 25, 2003, when the Forest
Service decided to prepare an EIS for the project.
NOTICE OF AVAILABILITY (NOA)
A Notice of Availability was published in the Federal Register on June 10, 2004, when the Forest
Service released the Draft EIS to the Public.
1.6. ISSUES
Issues are disagreements or debates about the potential environmental impacts of a proposed action.
As such, issues influence the design and evaluation of alternatives to the proposed action. Issues for
the American and Crooked River project have been identified through the public scoping process.
issues can be categorized as either non-significant or significant. The Council on Environmental
Quality (CEQ) NEPA regulations guide Federal agencies in handling non-significant issues by
directing them to"...identify and eliminate from detailed study the issues which are not significant or
which have been covered by prior environmental review (Sec. 1506.3)..." (40 CFR Part 1501.7).
Non-significant issues are those that are:
(1) Already addressed by law, regulation, forest plan or other higher level decision;
(2) Beyond the scope of the purpose and need described in the Notice of Intent;
(3) Not connected to the proposed action;
(4) Conjectural and not supported by scientific or factual evidence; or
(5) Irrelevant to the decision to be made.
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A list of non-significant issues and reasons for their categorization as non-significant may be found in
the project record at the Forest Supervisors Office in Grangeville, Idaho.
Significant issues are used to develop alternatives to the proposed action (Chapter 2 - Alternatives
Including the Proposed Action). They can also be addressed by standards and guidelines mitigation
measures, or design features common to all alternatives. In addition, significant issues provide the
basis for the analysis of environmental effects (Chapter 3).
Issues for the American and Crooked River project were derived from a variety of sources, including
those mentioned above in "Scoping." Similar issues were combined into one statement where
appropriate. The following issues were determined to be significant and within the scope of the
project decision. They are presented in an Issue/Discussion format and reflect positions and values
related to the project objectives, possible alternatives to consider, and environmental consequences
that could result from a course of action.
Many commenters discussed specific activities that were beyond the scope or outside the purpose
and need of this project. These activities that are reasonably foreseeable activities in the project and
surrounding areas would be analyzed separately, and many actions may occur in the area within a
10-year time frame that are not analyzed because they are not completely formulated at this time.
HAZARDOUS FUELS MANAGEMENT
Issue: Fire historically played a critical role in shaping and maintaining healthy resilient and
productive forest stands in and around the project area. Fire exclusion over the past century
interrupted the role of fire and has contributed to development of stand structure and composition that
are trending toward conditions that would result in large-scale crown fires. Today, many forest stands
in the project area are becoming stocked with small trees and have high levels of dead fuels-
conditions that would result in higher fire intensities in the event of a wildfire. High intensity wildfire
can result in severely burned areas that are outside historic norms and pose significant risks to human
life and property. There is disagreement over whether existing fuels levels in the project area warrant
treatment. Some believe that fuel loadings have reached hazardous levels and should be treated
while others believe fuels treatments are not needed at this time. Among those who feel treatments'
are needed, there is disagreement over methods to use, the priorities for treatment, and in what kinds
of ecosystems to allow treatments.
Several differing views related to fire and fuels management were identified through public
involvement and scoping. Some support actively managing vegetation and fuels in the American and
Crooked River project area. • Others raise concerns that the project as proposed will not reduce the
potential for substantial adverse effects from a large wildfire in the area. They believe that the
proposed project will not treat enough area (4-8 percent of the total project area) to effectively reduce
the spread of a potential wildfire. They are also concerned that treatments will be ineffective and not
remove enough fuels to reduce the potential for crown fires. Another concern is that dead, dying,
leaning, and overcrowded trees pose a threat to evacuation along the Crooked River Road in the
event of a wildfire near the Elk City Township. Many feel that, while the American and Crooked River
project will provide some protection from a wildfire being carried into the Township, it will only have
minimal effect on crown fire spread and fire severity. Some believe that landscape scale fire modeling
should be used to analyze effects of the proposed treatments, including fire history and past, present,
and post fuel treatment conditions.
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
DISCUSSION:
Scoping uncovered a broad range of disagreement regarding how many acres should be treated and
what types of trees1 should be removed to meet objectives for reducing the risk of large-scale crown
fire spread. Many indicated that insufficient area would be treated by the proposed action, while
others stated that the individual treatment prescriptions are not intense enough to accomplish
objectives for reducing wildfire spread.
One view is that prescribed fire should be used as the primary method to reduce fire hazard. Another
view is that a variety of methods should be used, including mechanical methods such as timber
harvest, brush removal, and small tree thinning (biomass removal). These views are related to the
scientific debate over whether fire surrogates2 can be used to effectively maintain and restore desired
ecosystem conditions and functions.
Many agreed with the extent of the overall project area as proposed. Some favored establishment of
a network of "defensible fuel treatment areas," while others emphasized fuels reduction around
human developments (wildland urban interface areas or the WUI). Proposals were also made to
apply intense fire hazard reduction treatments in areas of high risk to humans, along with more natural
burning in remote areas.
WATER QUALITY AND FISH HABITAT
Issue: There is concern about the potential for the project to result in early, increased water yields.
One view is that management activities in riparian ecosystems have the potential to degrade riparian
and aquatic health. Another view is that management activities can be used to maintain or improve
riparian and aquatic health, and that the proposed activities will not negatively impact fish populations
or water quality. Many believe that assessing cumulative impacts on water quality, quantity,
temperature, and timing of flows will be critical to informing the decision maker and public. Many
support watershed improvement activities to improve existing aquatic conditions and help mitigate
potential adverse impacts on water quality and fish habitat from activities on non-national forest lands.
Some were interested in the development of a restoration only alternative.
Discussion: Conflicts between the management of lands and uses of natural resources in riparian
and aquatic ecosystems have been a focus of public interest and scrutiny. The comments received
during scoping indicate disagreement about levels of concern. Water quality and fish habitat issues
are addressed in the Nez Perce National Forest Plan (USDA FS, 1987a) and through federal and
state laws, rules, and regulations. Commenters suggest that these requirements be maintained in
project design and project implementation. Examples include, but are not limited to, adherence to
PACFISH and TMDL guidelines, rules, and regulations.
1.7. DECISIONS TO BE MADE
Within the regulatory framework consisting of all applicable laws, regulations, and policies, this
decision will include:
• The location, design, amount, and scheduling of hazardous fuel treatments, timber harvest,
activity fuels treatment (slash), temporary road construction, road reconstruction, log-transfer
facilities, and silvicultural practices;
1 Dead and dying lodgepole pine, green lodgepole pine highly susceptible to mountain pine beetle attack, and/or
green ponderosa pine and western larch.
2 Mechanical treatments designed to create desired vegetation structures.
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The estimated timber volume, if any, to make available from the project area at this time;
Access management measures necessary to meet Forest Plan standards and project
objectives; H J
The amount, location, and type of water quality/fish habitat restoration that needs to occur in
conjunction with other management action;
Appropriate design criteria, mitigation, and monitoring; and
Scheduling of activities, if necessary, to meet the purpose and need of the action.
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Chapter 2 - Alternatives Including the Proposed Action
2.0 INTRODUCTION
2.1 ISSUE DEVELOPMENT
2.2 DESCRIPTION OF ALTERNATIVES
2.3 MITIGATION, MONITORING, COMPARISON OF
ALTERNATIVES AND OBJECTIVES SUMMARY
2.0. INTRODUCTION
This chapter outlines the public scoping process that led to the identification of significant issues
and development of alternatives to the proposed action. The significant issues are described in
this chapter, while information on other concerns raised during scoping can be found in the
project file, located in the Nez Perce Forest Headquarters.
Several alternatives were developed in response to the significant issues and are analyzed in
detail. Alternatives considered, but eliminated from detailed study, are summarized in this
chapter. The chapter concludes with a tabular comparison of the alternatives analyzed in detail.
The comparison is based on indicators selected by the project interdisciplinary team (IDT) to
evaluate how each alternative" responds to the significant issues and to the purpose and need
for action.
Based on public in response to the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS), clarification of
the economic and social well-being portion of the Purpose and Need Statement is provided.
Evaluation of alternatives considered a combination of factors that help define economic and
social well-being including:
• Protection of property and infrastructure from potential wildfire effects.
• Economic opportunities.
• Public use and enjoyment of the area.
o Recreation opportunities.
o Fish and wildlife habitat.
o Water Quality.
In September 2003, a scoping letter providing information and seeking public comment was
mailed to approximately 30 individuals and groups that had previously shown interest in Forest
Service projects on the Nez Perce National Forest. This included Federal and State agencies,
Idaho Native groups, municipal offices, businesses, interest groups, and individuals. The Forest
Service received 20 responses to this mailing.
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CHANGES TO THE PROPOSED ACTION SINCE SCOPING
nnoD aCt'°n for the American ar)d Crooked River project was scoped in September
2003 Because of public comment and further field review, the proposed activities have been
refined. The result is a change of 452 acres in the total fuel reduction activity acres In the
scoping letter, the Forest proposed to treat 3,000 acres of vegetation and that has been refined
to 3,452 acres of vegetation treatments.
In addition, further field review found a total of 18.9 miles of roads to be decommissioned as
opposed to the 30 miles identified during scoping. These roads do not improve access to the
area for recreation or administrative use. Some of these roads are either currently contributing
sediment to streams and they will be restored or they are not contributing sediment to the
streams, in which case they will be abandoned (Appendix F).
CHANGES BETWEEN THE DRAFT AND FINAL EIS
Alternative D of the Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) includes all of the hazardous
fuel/vegetative treatment units in Alternative D of the DEIS with the following exceptions.
• Units 99, 99.2, 105, and 329 (about 62 acres) were identified as meeting Forest Plan
criteria for old growth. These units were dropped from consideration for harvest in the
~
• Units 541, 542, and 543 (about 105 acres of thinning and partial canopy removal) were
added between road 1810 and the top of Flatiron Ridge in order to facilitate improved
wildfire containment and suppression effectiveness in this strategically important area
(FEIS Section 3.4).
There were several minor changes to the Design and Mitigation Measures (FEIS Table 2 3) to
add clarity or avoid duplication. Design and Mitigation Measures list applies to all alternatives
analyzed in detail in and FEIS.
The reference to creating "fuel breaks" and "safety areas" from the objectives of the project has
been removed because, although the project creates diverse vegetative patterns through
harvest that reduces the continuity of hazardous fuels in strategic areas, it does not propose to
manage these areas as long-term fuel breaks. Harvest activities will temporarily provide areas
that provide increased safety for fire fighters conducting suppression activities. However, safety
zones specifically delineated for public use would more appropriately be addressed through
localized defensible space projects or in the Idaho County Hazard Mitigation planning process.
Based on public input, the amount of watershed restoration in the FEIS has been substantially
increased over and above that which was analyzed and determined in the DEIS as sufficient to
achieve an upward trend in water quality and fish habitat. The additional list of watershed
improvements is shown in Table R-2 of the Record of Decision and would have a maximum
equivalent to Alternative E in the FEIS.
An error in the miles of instream improvement was displayed in the DEIS. Part of the reason for
this error was that some stream reaches were considered for instream improvement at two
levels of intensity, with a higher level of improvement in the "additional restoration" category.
The number of miles was double counted for those reaches that included both levels of
treatment. These numbers have been corrected in the FEIS for all action alternatives. The
actual watershed restoration that was originally proposed in the DEIS has not changed only the
way the number of miles was tabulated.
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American River/Crooked River -Environmental Impact Statement
The Recreation Opportunity Spectrum percentages in Chapter 3, Section 3.6 - Recreation, that
were listed in the DEIS were for the entire watershed, not for the project area. These acreages
have been corrected in this FEIS.
These changes are analyzed in detail in this FEIS.
2.1. ISSUE DEVELOPMENT
The intent of the scoping process is to notify affected Federal, State, and local agencies,
affected Indian tribes, and interested persons of the proposed action, to solicit input regarding
the proposed action, to identify the scope of the issues to be addressed in an environmental
impact statement (EIS) and to determine the relevant issues related to the proposed action
(CFR/CEQ 1501.7).
Preliminary issues were identified through consultation with Forest Service resource specialists
and frdm issues identified from similar, past projects. A comprehensive list was developed after
the IDT and Responsible Official reviewed the comments received during scoping.
Comments were categorized as follows:
• Covered in the effects analysis
• Addressed through project mitigation or design
• Beyond the scope of the proposed action
• Already decided by law, regulation, Forest Plan, or higher level decision
• Considered irrelevant to the decision being made
• Considered a general comment, opinion or position
• Significant issues driving an alternative
See project file for the list of comments and issue disposition.
Significant issues that could be resolved using mitigation measures, or addressed through the
effects analysis are discussed in this document. Other significant issues drove alternative
development. These issues are described below.
The CEQ regulations require federal agencies (in implementing NEPA) to focus on the
significant environmental issues related to the proposed action. The regulations also require the
identification of significant environmental issues deserving study. There are four categories of
significant issues that drove alternative development; soils, water quality, fish habitat, and fuel
reduction effectiveness, which follow:
FUEL REDUCTION EFFECTIVENESS
The effectiveness of the proposed activities for reducing fuels across the landscape has been
questioned. Many commenters stated that the most effective methods involve clearing trees
and brush away from structures. This has been proven to be an effective method of protecting
inholdings and structures, and this is already being done in the area. However, the intent of this
project is to reduce the effects of wildfire across the landscape. Many feel that there is no
effective method to reduce the effects of wildfire on the landscape other than to reduce road
density (if a fire goes through an area, removing the ground cover, the roads would intercept,
transport and add to the sediment reaching the streams). Some believe that thinning in
lodgepole pine would tend to allow for greater fire spread and severity and that dead trees may
present less of a fire hazard than green live trees.
There are concerns that the proposed fuel hazard reduction activities would not reduce the
effects of large-scale fire.
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American River/Crooked River-Environmental Impact Statement
INDICATORS OF FUEL REDUCTION EFFECTIVENESS
• Area and distribution of fire regime
• Acres of fuel hazard reduction
• Risk/Hazard Indicator
WATER QUALITY
Vegetation treatments, temporary road construction, road reconstruction, road
decommissioning, and in-channel improvements may affect water quality in the short and/or
long term. Cumulative effects need to be considered in the American and Crooked River
watersheds.
WATERSHED CONDITION
Watershed condition indicators are a series of metrics that can be used to index the level of
disturbance in a watershed. They are usually expressed as densities or discrete amounts of
various disturbances within a watershed. For example, road density expressed in miles of road
per square mile of watershed area (mi/mi2) is a common watershed condition indicator. Roads
affect watershed function in a variety of ways, related to both water yield and sediment yield.
INDICATOR OF WATERSHED CONDITION
• Road Density
WATER YIELD
A number of physical factors determine the relationship between canopy conditions and water
yield. These include interception, evapotranspiration, shading effects and wind flux. These
factors affect the accumulation and melt rates of snow and how rainfall is processed in the
watershed. Live vegetation affects water yield in several ways. Leaves and needles intercept
moisture from the air; roots of live trees and other vegetation take up ground water; and ground
cover aids infiltration of water, decreasing runoff. Dead trees and vegetation, along with
removal of vegetation can alter water yield.
Additional factors affecting water yield include compacted surfaces due to roads, skid trails, and
landings. They contribute to flashy flows, due to their impervious surfaces, interception of
groundwater and extension of the channel system in the form of ditches. As impervious
surfaces increase, increased peak flows generally result. Peak flows can result in mobilization
of both large and small materials, causing increased erosion in steep stream reaches and
deposition in downstream areas.
INDICATOR OF WATER YIELD
• Equivalent Clearcut Area
SEDIMENT YIELD
The American and Crooked River watersheds have been affected by past activities such as
timber harvest, road building, grazing, and mining. This has resulted in high road densities in
most subwatersheds. These activities have affected water quality through increased sediment
delivery to streams.
The proposed harvest and watershed improvement activities could affect sediment yield over
time. Harvest and roadwork have the potential to increase sediment production and delivery
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American River/Crooked River -Environmental Impact Statement
into streams. Some watershed improvement projects have the potential to produce sediment in
the short-term, but are designed to result in long-term reductions in sediment yield.
INDICATOR OF SEDIMENT YIELD
• Sediment yield percent over base as modeled by NEZSED
CHANNEL MORPHOLOGY
Water and sediment yield can interact to change channel morphology conditions through
erosion of stream channels or deposition of sediment. Channel morphology can also be
affected directly through activities such as road encroachment, stream crossings, and in-
channel improvements. Sediment delivery and routing processes vary by upland settings,
stream types and disturbance level and type.
INDICATORS OF CHANNEL MORPHOLOGY
• Channel geometry
• Substrate composition
WATER QUALITY
Water quality includes physical and chemical characteristics of water. Parameters commonly
measured include pH, alkalinity, hardness, specific conductance, nutrients, metals, sediment,
and water temperature. Many of these parameters are affected to only a slight degree by forest
practices. Water temperature controls the rate of biologic process, is of critical concern for fish
populations, and is a primary indicator of habitat conditions.
Water temperatures in the American and Crooked River watersheds currently exceed Idaho
Water Quality Standards at certain times of the year. In part, this is due to natural conditions,
but has also been affected by reductions of streamside shade and changes in channel
morphology.
INDICATORS OF WATER QUALITY
• Water Temperature
• Canopy density in forested reaches
• Percent shade in non-forested reaches
FISH HABITAT
Vegetation treatments, temporary road construction, road reconstruction, road
decommissioning, and in-channel improvements may affect fish habitat short-term, especially
considering cumulative effects in the American and Crooked River watersheds.
Vegetation treatments in Riparian Habitat Conservation Areas (RHCAs) could affect fish habitat
short-term.
DEPOSITED SEDIMENT
Historically, increased sediment yield to the American and Crooked River watersheds has
resulted in high levels of deposited sediment in many streams, including mainstem American
and Crooked Rivers. The American and Crooked River watershed has been identified as a
priority watershed for anadromous fish. Existing roads produce continued sediment yields
above the base (natural) rate, reducing the ability of the watershed to recover to
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American River/Crooked River -Environmental Impact Statement
predevelopment conditions on its own. High levels of deposited sediment reduce the biological
carrying capacity for fish and other aquatic organisms and quality of spawning habitat.
Short-term increases in sediment yield from proposed activities might contribute to degraded
substrate conditions and further reduce carrying capacity and quality of spawning habitat. Long-
term reduction in sediment yield could result in long-term improvement of substrate conditions.
INDICATORS OF DEPOSITED SEDIMENT
• Cobble embeddedness
• Quality of summer and winter habitat carrying capacity as modeled by FISHSED
LARGE WOODY DEBRIS
Large woody debris in project area streams has been reduced by historical in-channel mining
activities, timber harvest in streamside zones, fire suppression, and construction of roads in
streamside zones. Many stream reaches in the project area have been identified as debris-
deficient. Large woody debris contributes to stream productivity, creates pools, provides hiding
cover for fish, and increases habitat complexity.
INDICATORS OF LARGE WOODY DEBRIS
• Estimated number of pieces of large wood in the channel following project activities
• Qualitative assessment of debris recruitment, cycling, and how the project could affect
future riparian health concerning this element.
POOLS HABITAT
With reduction in large woody debris, accelerated sediment yield, and impacts to stream
channels from instream mining activities, road encroachment and timber harvest, there are
fewer high quality pools in the American and Crooked River watersheds than would be expected
under a more natural scenario.
Some proposed activities may result in a short-term reduction in pool quality from increased
sediment yield. Other proposed activities may result in direct improvement in the number of
pools. Long-term sediment reduction may result in long-term improvement in pool quality.
INDICATORS OF POOLS QUALITY
• Sediment yield (peak percent over natural or base rate), as it would affect sediment
deposition
• Pool: riffle ratios as a measure of existing condition
• Number of pools
WATER YIELD
Water yield specific to fish habitat is measured by Equivalent Clearcut Acres (EGA), the
indicator here of water yield. With increased timber harvest and road construction comes
increased water yield. Increased water yield can cause stream channel instability.
INDICATOR OF WATER YIELD
• EGA threshold
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American River/Crooked River-Environmental Impact Statement
WATER QUALITY
Water quality from a fish habitat standpoint is measured by the amount of toxicants in the water.
Toxicants can be introduced as a result of fuel transport, storage, spillage, or use of herbicides
near water bodies, wetlands, and riparian zones.
INDICATOR OF Toxics
• Mitigated to discountable by Best Management Practices (BMP) and State
Requirements
WATER TEMPERATURE
Water temperatures in the American and Crooked River watersheds currently exceed Idaho
Water Quality Standards at certain times of the year. This is due in part to natural conditions,
but also has been affected by reductions of streamside shade and changes in channel
morphology.
INDICATOR OF WATER TEMPERATURE
• Riparian timber harvest and riparian planting (shade).
HABITAT CONNECTIVITY/FISH PASSAGE
Existing conditions limit fish passage/connectivity by isolating fish populations and restricting
movement with undersized culverts.
INDICATOR OF HABITAT CONNECTIVITY/FISH PASSAGE
• Culverts improved and additional miles of stream accessible.
2.2. DESCRIPTION OF ALTERNATIVES
Section 102(2) of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) states that all Federal agencies
shall "...study, develop, and describe appropriate alternatives to recommended courses of
action in any proposal which involves unresolved conflicts concerning alternative uses of
available resources". These unresolved conflicts, identified by the Forest Service and the
public, are the NEPA issues related to the Proposed Action.
In addition to responding to unresolved conflicts, an environmental impact statement (EIS) must
"...rigorously explore and objectively evaluate all reasonable alternatives" [40 CFR 1502.14(a)].
The courts have established that this direction does not mean that every conceivable alternative
must be considered, but that selection and discussion of alternatives must permit a reasoned
choice and foster informed decision making and informed public participation. Together, these
requirements determine the NEPA range of alternatives.
The alternatives considered in detail were developed in response to the significant issues,
discussed previously and are discussed below. Those that were considered but eliminated from
detailed study are also discussed below.
ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED BUT ELIMINATED FROM DETAILED STUDY
As the team worked with the scoping and project information that was available to fine tune the
response to the issues, and worked through the matrix of possible vegetative treatments, the
following alternatives were considered, but dismissed from detailed study.
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American River/Crooked River-Environmental Impact Statement
"RESTORATION ONLY" AND/OR "NO TIMBER HARVEST"
Several respondents requested this alternative. This alternative would have considered
implementing watershed improvements, such as road decommissioning, improving stream
crossings, etc. No fuel reduction activities would be considered.
This alternative does not respond to the purpose and need of treating existing and potential fuel
loads to reduce the effects of potential large-scale wildfire and improving the safety and
effectiveness of firefighters in fire suppression activities.
DEFENSIBLE SPACE
Many commenters responded that reducing trees and brush within 200 feet of structures is a
more effective method of reducing fire effects.
A defensible space alternative was not evaluated under this analysis because this type of action
is currently being implemented in the American Crooked River Watersheds under the Crooked
River Demonstration Project Decision Memo, and the proposed Orogrande Defensible Space
project (on file at the Elk City Ranger Station, Red River Ranger District).
EXPANDED ACTION VIA ACCESS THROUGH THE ROADLESS AREA
Some commenters requested we consider alternatives that either constructed roads into the
roadless area to access the Kirks Fork and Box Sing Creeks, or requested fuels reduction in the
roadless areas. In order to avoid impacts to the Inventoried Roadless Area this alternative was
dropped from detailed analysis
EXPANDED ACTION WITH ACCESS OUTSIDE OF ROADLESS AREA
It was suggested that treatments be concentrated in the wildland urban interface areas or the
WUI areas near the Elk City Township. To access WUI areas near the township at the Kirks
Fork and Box Sing Creek areas, an alternate route was suggested that did not enter the
roadless area. This alternate routes would likely require crossing the public land managed by
the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The BLM has proposed the Eastside Township
Project, and it was determined that it would be more appropriate to analyze the potential access
and associated fuels treatment proposal in connection with the Eastside Township Project.
ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED IN DETAIL
Five alternatives, including the No Action alternative, were considered in detail. A brief
summary is outlined below in Table 2-1: Alternatives Overview American River Watershed, and
Table 2-2: Alternatives Overview Crooked River Watershed. Superscript notes explain the
activity at the end of Table 2-2.
ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, AND E - ACTION ALTERNATIVES
Alternative C was the proposed action and Alternatives B, D, and E respond to the significant
issues and are alternatives to the proposed action. Alternative D is the preferred alternative and
is discussed below in the section "Alternative D preferred alternative."
None of the action alternatives would treat fuels, harvest timber, or construct roads in old growth
areas or inventoried roadless areas.
• There would be no new permanent roads constructed.
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American River/Crooked River -Environmental Impact Statement
• Management activities in riparian areas would be minimized.
• Activities in high hazard landslide prone areas would be avoided.
• All action alternatives would address State of Idaho TMDL limiting factors and implement
watershed restoration activities designed to meet the Forest Plan requirements to
establish an upward trend in water quality and fish habitat conditions that are below
current objectives.
• Each action alternative implements the restoration activities to meet Forest Plan
requirements.
• Alternatives address the effectiveness of fuel reduction activities by providing a range of
acres treated.
• Action alternatives would maintain shade and large woody debris with PACFISH
regulated buffers.
Table 2.1: Alternatives in the American River Watershed, and Table 2.2: Alternatives in the
Crooked River Watershed displays the activities for all the action alternatives. See maps 2a,
2b, 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b of the alternatives for the proposed fuel reduction areas and Map 11
for the proposed watershed improvement activities.
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American River/Crooked River-Environmental Impact Statement
Table 2.1 Alternatives in the American River Watershed.
Proposed Activity -American River
Acres of
Treatment
Tractor Yard/Machine Pile
Cable Yard/Broadcast Burn
Roadside Salvage
Total Acres Treated
Percent Clearcut
Percent Partial Cut/Thin
Wildland Urban Interface
Miles of Temporary Road Construction2
Miles of Road Reconditioning3
AltB
409
175
135
719
41%
59%
295
3.6
30.2
Alt C | Alt D1
482
239
151
872
41%
59%
417
8.1
30.8
Watershed Restoration Package improvements
Miles (acres) of decommissioned roads4
Miles of Watershed Road Improvement6
Number of sites of Watershed Road Improvement
Stream crossing improvements"
Miles of instream improvements
Miles of Recreation and Trail improvements
Acres of Recreation & Trail improvements
Acres of Mine Site Reclamation
Acres of Soil Restoration
Access change for vehicle use - motorized trail use
(ATV) to restricted use (snowmobiles over snow)7
Miles of Access change for vehicle use"
4.9
(20)
6.6
0
3.
0
1.6
0
0
5
1.6
0
7.5
(30)
6.6
0
3
0
1.6
0
0
8
1.6
0
841
239
137
1217
29%
71%
464
8.1
33.9
8.4/1 1
(34/44)
7.4
0
3/6
0
1.6/0.8
0
0
9/12
1.6
0
AltE
283
79
138
500
15%
85%
85
1.9
25.8
19.5
(78)
7.4
0
9
0
2.4
0
0
21
1.6
0
1 Alternative D includes required and additional restoration. The first number is required restoration the second is
additional restoration contingent on available funding. A T is displayed between the numbers.
Temporary roads would be decommissioned within one to three years of construction.
This category includes a range of activities, such as surface blading, drainage repair, and roadway brushing with
occasional culvert installations, slump repairs, and stabilization work. The roadwork in this category is primarily for
the purpose of timber removal..
4
Road decommissioning for this project covers a range of activities, from recontouring to abandonment due to grown
in conditions. See Appendix F
Some of the roadwork in this category is also included in the Miles of Road Reconditioning category in this table
Although this roadwork is primarily for the purpose of timber removal, it will also result in an improvement in
watershed health.
Stream crossing improvements include upgrading or improving culverts and bridges to improve fish passage and
peak water flows and are listed as the number of sites.
This is an access change, which restricts use to two wheeled vehicles or snowmobiles over snow from previous all
terrain vehicle use (ATV).
o
This is a roads-to-trails conversion.
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American River/Crooked River-Environmental Impact Statement
Table 2.2: Alternatives in the Crooked River Watershed.
(Proposed Activity - Crooked River
Acres of
Treatment
Tractor Yard/Machine Pile
Cable Yard/Broadcast Burn
Roadside Salvage
Total Acres Treated
Percent Clearcut
Percent Partial Cut/Thin
Wildland Urban Interface
Miles of Temporary Road Construction2
Miles of Road Reconditioning3
AltB
729
770
332
1,831
43%
57%
264
4.4
49.2
AltC
690
856
326
1,872
43%
57%
314
6.2
49.5
AltD1
975
931
329
2,235
36%
64%
649
6.2
56.6
AltE I
618
701
337
1,656
32%
68%
205
3.5
48.5
Watershed Restoration Package Improvements
Miles (acres) of Decommissioned Roads4
Miles of Watershed Road Improvement5
Number of Sites of Watershed Road
Improvement
Stream Crossing Improvements6
Miles of Instream Improvements
Miles of Recreation and Trail improvements
Acres of Recreation and Trail improvements
Acres of Mine Site
Reclamation
Acres of Soil Restoration
Access change for vehicle use - motorized trail
use (ATV) to restricted use (snowmobiles over
snow)7
Miles of Access change for vehicle use8
9.0
(36)
8.6
1
7
10.3
0.7
0
7
13
1.0
1.6
9.8
(39)
9.2
3
7
11.1
0.7
4
7
18
1.0
1.6
10.5/7.0
(39/30)
9.2/8
3
10/16
11.1/3.5
0.7/1.5
8
7/2
23/14
1.0
1.6
17.5
(69)
17.2
3
25
14.6
2.2
8
9
37
1.0
1.6
Alternative D includes required and additional restoration. The first number is required restoration, the second is
for additional restoration contingent on available funding. A"/" is displayed between the numbers.
Temporary roads would be decommissioned within one to three years of construction.
This category includes a range of activities, such as surface blading, drainage repair, and roadway brushing with
occasional culvert installations, slump repairs, and stabilization work. The roadwork in this category is primarily for
the purpose of timber removal.
4
Road decommissioning for this project covers a range of activities, from recontouring to abandonment due to grown
in conditions. See Appendix D
5 Some of the roadwork in this category is also included in the Miles of Road Reconditioning category in this table.
Although this roadwork is primarily for the purpose of timber removal, it will also result in an improvement in
watershed health. This is an access change of miles of roads to trails use.
6 Stream crossing improvements include upgrading or improving culverts and bridges to improve fish passage and
peak water flows and are listed as the number of sites.
This is an access change, which restricts use to two wheeled vehicles or snowmobiles over snow, from previous all
terrain vehicle use (ATV).
o
This category includes 1.5 miles of road-to-trail conversion.
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American River/Crooked River-Environmental Impact Statement
Appendix H contains a detailed description of all the treatment types by unit by alternative. This
is summarized for the entire project in Table 2.4: Alternatives in the American and Crooked
River Project. The vegetation section in Chapter 3 contains an explanation of the existing
conditions and environmental consequences of these alternatives. General information on the
developed alternatives is below.
ALTERNATIVE A - No ACTION
Both Forest Service and the CEQ regulations require the development of the No Action
alternative. This alternative serves as the baseline for comparison of the effects of all action
alternatives.
Under this alternative, there would be no change in current management direction or in the level
of ongoing management activities within the project area. No fuel reduction or watershed
improvement activities would be implemented. Work previously planned within and/or adjacent
to the project area would still occur under this alternative (Chapter 3; Table 3.1, Projects
considered for cumulative effects).
ALTERNATIVE B
This alternative was developed in response to concerns that the proposed action was treating
too many acres. This alternative treats 2,550 acres. It contains the watershed improvement
activities described in Appendix D and summarized above that would provide for an upward
trend in fish habitat and water quality.
ALTERNATIVE C - PROPOSED ACTION
The proposed action was developed to respond to the purpose and need and was scoped in
June 2003. This alternative would reduce existing and potential fuel loads through removing
dead and dying lodgepole pine and live ladder fuels. It would treat 2,744 acres. It would
also implement watershed improvement activities that would provide for an upward trend in
fish habitat and water quality.
ALTERNATIVE D - PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE
The preferred alternative was developed in response to significant issues raised by the public.
This alternative looks at more possibilities along roads than the proposed action. It would treat
3,452 acres. Entry into mixed conifer stands is included to meet the economic objective. It
would also require concurrent watershed improvement activities that would provide for an
upward trend in fish habitat and water quality, additional restoration activities, above the
required concurrent have been analyzed in this document so that they can be implemented as
funding allows.
ALTERNATIVE E
This alternative proposes activities that would reduce impacts to soils and aquatics in the
American and Crooked River watersheds. It reduces ground-disturbing activities and includes
the most comprehensive watershed improvement package. This alternative addresses the soils
and aquatics issues beyond what would be required to attain an upward trend. It contains the
maximum aquatics improvements package. It would treat 2,156 acres. The economic impact of
this alternative is discussed in Chapter 3, Section 3.12.
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American River/Crooked River-Environmental Impact Statement
2.3. COMPARISON OF ALTERNATIVES, OBJECTIVES SUMMARY,
MITIGATION, AND MONITORING
COMPARISON OF ALTERNATIVES
A side-by-side comparison of alternatives is displayed in Table 2.1: Alternatives in the American
River Watershed and Table 2.2: Alternative in the Crooked River Watershed summarize and
compare the alternatives based on the indicators identified for each significant issue. More
detailed discussions follow on a resource basis in Chapter 3.
OBJECTIVES
Promote the health and vigor of timber stands and improve the environment for long-lived, fire
resistant species by reducing densities of lodgepole pine or other small diameter trees that
provide fuel ladders for development of crown fires,
Increase relative proportions of long-lived, fire resistant tree species by restoring or regenerating
to western larch, ponderosa pine, and by protecting large diameter ponderosa pine, Douglas fir,
and western larch,
Reduce the risk of large-scale crown fire spread by creating vegetative patterns through harvest
or silvicultural treatments, that would increase fire suppression and management effectiveness,
and
Reduce the likelihood of severe local fire effects by removing dead, dying, and downed trees
that would otherwise result in high fuel loading.
MITIGATION AND MONITORING
The rest of this chapter discusses the design and mitigation measures. The monitoring plan
that would apply to all action alternatives can be found in Appendix I.
The action alternatives are designed to have minimal long-term detrimental impacts and
substantial long-term beneficial impacts on the environment. Short-term impacts may be
minimized through mitigations measures. The following table outlines the project design and
mitigation measure. This list is not all-inclusive as the Forest Plan standards are incorporated
by reference.
Project design measures are applied prior to and during activity implementation to reduce
potential impacts to resources (Table 2.3: Design Criteria and Mitigation Measures). The
following project design measures, mitigation measures, and Best Management Practices have
been incorporated into the action alternatives with the intent of preventing or reducing adverse
impacts to resources.
DESIGN CRITERIA COMMON TO ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES
Design criteria associated with the harvest, and road construction and reconstruction were
developed to avoid or reduce potential resource impacts. Public comments were considered
when developing these measures. The following measures and management requirements
were designed to apply to all action alternatives. The sale preparation forester and the sale
•administrator would identify the specific conditions of the timber sale (Timber Sale Contract,
Division A). Standard provisions (Timber Sale Contract, Division B) and any specific provisions
(Timber Sale Contract, Division C) would also be applied.
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American River/Crooked River-Environmental Impact Statement
Best Management Practices (BMPs) were used to plan this project. BMPs are the primary
mechanism to enable the achievement of water quality standards to ensure compliance with the
Clean Water Act of 1972, as amended (1977 and 1987) and Idaho State Water Quality
Standards. BMPs are applied as a system of practices that are basically a preventative rather
than an enforcement system. BMPs are a management and planning system in relation to
sound water quality goals, including both broad policy and site-specific prescriptions and are
designed to accommodate site-specific conditions. They are tailor-made to account for the
complexity and physical and biological variability of the natural environment. As defined in the
Idaho State Water Quality Standards (IDAPA 58.01.02), BMPs include the Idaho Forest
Practices Act Rules (IDAPA 20.02.01) and Idaho Stream Alteration Rules (IDAPA 37.0307)
BMPs also include the USDA Forest Service Northern and Intermountain Region's Soil and
Water Conservation Practices Handbook (FSH 2509.22). BMPs are also derived from the Nez
Perce National Forest Plan as amended. BMPs specifically tailored to this project are defined
below and will be included in contracts or other measures used to implement the project.
In addition, watershed and/or fish habitat improvement projects to improve water quality and
fisheries habitat in the long-term are required in all the subwatersheds where harvest and road
construction/reconstruction activities occur at levels considered to be an entry (as defined in
Gerhardt, 1991b). These projects are connected actions and mitigations for specific existing
conditions and past activities that have negatively impacted aquatic resources in the affected
watersheds. They are designed to mitigate effects of harvest activities such as increased
sediment yield and road densities. Some of the watershed improvement projects are likely to
have short-term negative impacts on aquatic resources during the implementation and post-
project stabilization phases, and long-term positive impacts. The watershed improvement
projects also have specific design criteria and BMPs to reduce the short-term impacts on fish
habitat and water quality. The watershed and fish improvements projects, design criteria, and
BMPs are addressed in Watershed and Fish Habitat Improvement Projects. Effectiveness of
BMPs commonly used on the Nez Perce National Forest was described in Gerhardt et al
1991 b.
Chapter 2
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
Table 2.3 outlines the project design and mitigation measures. This list is not all-inclusive, as the Forest Plan standards (USDA FS,
1987a) are incorporated by reference.
Table 2.3 - Project Design and Mitigation Measures.
#
Project Design and Mitigation Measure
Implementation Method
Effectiveness
Areas Excluded from Timber Harvest or Fuel Reduction Activities
1
No timber harvest or mechanical fuel reduction activities would occur in Forest
Plan existing or replacement old growth, Inventoried Roadless Areas,
streamside RHCAs, or high hazard landslide prone areas
NEPA project design,
silviculture prescription,
and field prep.
High, based available
inventory and monitoring
data
Vegetation
2
3
Falling would be done to minimize breakage and damage to residual trees.
Silvicultural prescriptions would be written for each unit, including slash
treatment and burn guidelines to meet Riparian Management Objectives
Field preparation, contract
and contract
administration/ inspection
Silvicultural prescription
High, based on sale
administrators'
observations
High, based on protocols
for Silvicultural
certification
Riparian Habitat Conservation Areas
4
5
6
No cutting of trees would be allowed in PACFISH default streamside or wetland
RHCAs, except at temporary road crossings, instream habitat improvements,
and to facilitate anchoring of cable yarding systems.
Post harvest burning will occur in harvest units to reduce slash and fuel
resulting from the harvest activities. The burning will be designed and
implemented with the intent of restricting burning to stay within the unit
boundary. Fire that moves outside the external unit boundary will be
suppressed if it poses a threat to riparian resources. On occasion fire will move
into small RHCA inclusions within the unit. Burning will not be ignited within
these areas, but may be allowed to back into these areas under conditions
where fire intensity will be low and burning will not result in extensive reduction
in canopy cover or exposure of bare soil in these RHCA inclusions.
Landslide prone areas are also considered Riparian Habitat Conservation
Areas (RHCAs). No timber harvest would occur in areas of high landslide
hazard, as described in (1) above. Timber harvest, road construction, or fuel
reduction in areas of moderate landslide risk would be modified as needed to
protect slope stability. If additional, unmapped landslide prone areas are found
during project implementation, areas would be dropped or activities would be
modified with watershed specialist oversight to protect slope stability.-
Field preparation, contract
and contract
administration/ inspection
FS Fuels management
NEPA project design,
silviculture prescription,
and field prep.
High, based on inventory
and monitoring data
High, based on
Research, PNW Lab,
Starkey Project
High, based on landslide
inventory data
Chapter 2
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
Project Design and Mitigation Measure
Implementation Method
Effectiveness
Soils, Water Quality, and Fish Habitat
Planned activities would be modified in any proposed timber harvest or fuel
reduction unit that is found to have previously unidentified significant soil impacts
from past human-caused disturbance. The planned activities in that unit would be
modified or dropped, or post-harvest restoration implemented to ensure that
cumulative impacts would not exceed Forest Plan soil quality standard number 2
(percent of area detrimentally impacted upon completion of activities). Site-
specific review of treatment units prior to implementation would identify extent of
detrimental soil disturbance.
NEPA project design,
silviculture prescription, and
field prep.
Moderate, based on
research and forest
monitoring data (Cullen
etal., 1991, Froelich et
al., 1983, USDAFS
1988B, 1990, 1992,
1999, and 2003D).
Timber harvest and fuel reduction activities would be coordinated with soil
restoration activities for greatest efficiency.
Contract administration
Expected to be
moderate, little data.
Broadcast burning would be applied in preference to excavator piling wherever
practical to reduce physical soil damage and to encourage natural
regeneration.
NEPA project design,
silviculture prescription, and
contract.
High, to the degree
implemented; based on
forest monitoring data
(USDAFS 1988B,
1990, 1992, 1999, and
2003D).
10
Temporary roads would be built, used, and decommissioned within a 1 to 3-
year period, in order to reduce the amount of sediment production.
Coordination of temporary road use and decommissioning with the BLM
Eastside Township project would be required.
NEPA project design and
contract administration
Moderate, based on
implementation
monitoring of timber
sale contracts and
Burroughs and King,
1989.
11
New, temporary roads would be constructed using minimal road widths and
out-sloped surface drainage. Road cuts, fills, and treads would be stabilized
with annual grass cover where roads are held more than one year. Temporary
roads would be located to avoid live water and high-risk landslide prone terrain.
If avoidance of live water is not possible, stream crossings would be designed
consistent with criteria described below and in Forest Plan Amendment 20
(PACFISH)
Contract and contract
administration/inspection
High, based on literature
(Water/Road Interaction
Technology Series, USDA
Forest Service, San
Dimas Technology and
Development Program,
1999; Burroughs and
King, 1989)
12
Coarse woody debris greater than 3 inches diameter would be retained in
timber harvest or fuel reduction units in amounts to meet guidelines in
Appendix K.
NEPA project design,
silviculture prescription,
contract, and contract
administration.
High effectiveness,
based on Graham et
al., 1994 and Harvey et
al., 1987.
Implementation
effectiveness has not
Chapter 2
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
#
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
Project Design and Mitigation Measure
Minimize whole tree yarding. Whole-tree yard boles only, leaving tops and
limbs on site, to maintain foliar nutrients. Over-winter slash at least one winter
to allow nutrients to leach into the soil.
Winter harvesting would only occur during frozen conditions. Frozen conditions
are defined as greater than 4 inches of frozen ground, a barrier of snow greater
than two feet in depth (unpacked snow), or one foot in depth (packed snow).
Timber harvest, fuel reduction, and soil and stream restoration activities would
be limited or suspended when soils are wet, such that resource damage may
occur, to reduce rutting, displacement and erosion.
Skid trails, landings, and yarding corridors would be located and designated to
minimize the area of detrimental soil effects. Tractor skid trails would be
spaced 80 to 120 feet apart, except where converging on landings, to reduce
the area of detrimental soil disturbance. This does not preclude the use of
feller bunchers if soil impacts can remain within standards.
On excavator piled units, additional trail construction would be minimized,
machines would be restricted to existing trails as much as possible, number of
passes would be minimized, and excavator piling would be minimized, to
reduce soil compaction. Numerous small piles are preferred to few large piles
to avoid nutrient losses and soil alteration that favor weed invasion.
Cable systems would use one-end or full suspension wherever possible to
minimize soil disturbance.
Excavated skid trails and landings with cut slopes of more than 1 foot would be
scarified and recontoured, replacing topsoil as feasible on all landings and trails
not needed for harvest within the next 15 years. Winged subsoiler, excavator,
or similar equipment is preferred to restore permeability and soil structure.
Fine organic matter and slash would be scattered over recontoured or scarified
areas on skid trails, decommissioned roads, and landings with a goal of
achieving 10 tons per acre of fines and 15-20 tons per acre of larger material,
up to 35 tons total where available and acceptable to fuel managers. Water
bars and seeding of approved weed-free annual or native species would be
added as needed for supplementary erosion control.
Implementation Method
NEPA project design,
silviculture prescription, BD
plan, and contract.
Contract administration
Contract and contract
administration/inspection
Contract and contract
administration/inspection
Contract and contract
administration/inspection
Contract and contract
administration/inspection
Contract and contract
administration/inspection
Contract and contract
administration/inspection
Effectiveness
been monitored.
High (Garrison and
Moore, 1998; Moore et
al., 2004)
Moderate, based on
forest monitoring data
(1987 report in project
file)
Moderate, based on
forest monitoring
(USDAFS 1988B,
1990, 1992, 1999, and
2003D).
Moderate, based on
forest monitoring
(Froelich, et al, 1981;
USDAFS 1988B, 1990,
1992, 1999, and
2003D).
Moderate, based on
forest monitoring
(USDAFS 1988B,
1990, 1992, 1999, and
2003D).
High where
implemented (USDA
FS 2003A; Krag, 1991)
High(Plotnikoffetal.,
1999; Sanborn etal.
1999A, Sanborn etal.,
1999B)
High (Sanborn etal.,
1999A)
Chapter 2
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
#
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
Project Design and Mitigation Measure
Soil restoration areas would be stabilized within 14 days, using erosion
barriers, slash, or mulch as needed. Any soil restoration in an activity area
would be completed within one operating season, with allowance for additional
planting in subsequent seasons.
Non-excavated skid trails and landings not needed for harvest within the next
15 years, that have been cut, compacted or entrenched 3 inches or more would
be scarified to a depth of 4 - 10 inches, or as directed by contract
administrator, to restore soil permeability. Excavator, winged subsoileror
similar equipment is preferred, to avoid mixing surface ash layer and subsoil.
Sediment and erosion control measures such as dewatering culverts, sediment
barriers, rocking road surfaces and/or ditches, etc., would be used as needed
when constructing, reconstructing, and decommissioning roads to protect fish
habitat and water quality.
Activities including stream crossing road improvements would be conducted in
fish bearing streams between July 1 and August 1 5 to avoid sediment
deposition on emerging steelhead or Chinook redds, or disturbance to bull trout
moving to natal streams. These dates may be site-specifically adjusted
through coordination with the Central Idaho Level I team and other agencies
Stream crossing structures would provide for channel width, flow velocities,
substrate condition, and stream gradients that approximate the natural channel
and accommodate passage of streamflow, debris, fish, and other aquatic
organisms, and would use PACFISH standards. When designing new
structures, consider and give preference to open-bottom arches, bridges and
oversized culverts.
During instream habitat improvement activities, tree felling in RHCAs would
occur only where that activity would not affect Riparian Management Objectives
for shade and woody debris recruitment. Wood for instream placement would
be taken from outside the RHCA wherever feasible.
Prior to instream habitat improvement activities, heavy equipment would be
inspected to assure no leakage of oil, fuel, or hydraulic fluid.
A Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasures Plan (40 CFR 112) would be
prepared and implemented that incorporates the rules and requirements of the
Idaho Forest Practices Act Section 60, Use of Chemicals and Petroleum
Products; and US Department of Transportation rules for fuels haul and
temporary storage; and additional direction as applicable
For instream activities in fish-bearing streams that contain listed species, fish
are expected to disperse from the activity area. If needed, additional measures
would be used to ensure fish are not harmed or killed by instream activity If
Implementation Method
Contract and contract
administration/inspection
Contract and contract
administration/inspection
Contract and contract
administration
NEPA project design,
contract and contract
administration/inspection
NEPA project design,
contract and contract
administration/inspection
Contract and contract
administration/inspection
Contract and contract
administration/inspection
Contract and contract
administration/inspection
Contract and contract
administration/inspection
Effectiveness
Moderate, based on past
experience.
Moderate to high (Froelich
etal., 1983; Froelich et al,
1985;Foltz and Mallard,
2004; Luce, 1997)
High, based on literature,
San Dimas, Road/Water
Interaction
Moderate to high,
based on past
experience.
High, based on literature,
San Dimas, Road/Water
Interaction
High, based on past
experience.
Moderate to high,
based on past
experience.
High, based on past
experience.
Moderate, based on
past experience.
Chapter 2
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
#
30
Project Design and Mitigation Measure
electrofishing were necessary, it would be conducted in accordance with NOAA
Fisheries electrofishing guidelines found at http://www.nwr,noaajgoy.
The State of Idaho Best Management Practices (BMPs) and Forest Service
Soil and Water Conservation Practices (SWCPs) would be applied. These are
incorporated by reference.
implementation Method
Contract and contract
administration/inspection
Effectiveness
High, based on past
experience.
Trails/Recreation
31
32
Coordination would minimize conflict with winter hauling on roads used as
groomed snowmobile routes.
Trails 820, 832, 838, 844, 848, and others as identified, would be protected
during activities.
Designate all system trails as Protected Improvements in the Timber Sale
Contract. No skidding across trails, except over snow, fall trees away from
trails, cut stumps less than 1 2" in height within 1 00 feet of trails, leave
regeneration within 100 feet of trails to create a visual buffer between treatment
areas and trails, construct firelines to protect the regeneration buffer and trail
during slash treatment, and trails are not to be used a firelines.
Project design, contract and
contract administration/
inspection
Contract and contract
administration/inspection
Moderate, based on
past experience.
High, based on past
experience.
Access/Public Safety
33
34
Temporary roads would be closed to public use, except as specifically
authorized.
Operator would be required to set up warning signs advising of equipment
operations or hazards for public safety.
Contract and contract
administration/inspection
Contract and contract
administration/inspection
Moderate for sediment
reduction and wildlife
security, based on
monitoring
High, based on past
experience.
Air Quality
35
36
37
Procedures outlined in the North Idaho Smoke Management Memorandum of
Agreement would be followed, including restrictions imposed by the smoke
management-monitoring unit.
Prescribed burning would be conducted over several years to reduce the
amount of smoke in any one year. Priority in scheduling would be given to
units accessed by temporary roads scheduled for decommissioning
Additional restrictions, beyond those imposed by the smoke management-
monitoring unit, would be considered for prescribed burning for local air quality
reasons, including visual.
FS fuels management
FS fuels management
FS fuels management
High, based on burning
approval required daily
by smoke monitoring
unit.
High, based on past
experience, and
availability of burn
windows and/or
personnel.
High, based on past
experience.
Chapter 2
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
#
Project Design and Mitigation Measure
Implementation Method
Effectiveness
Wildlife
38
Snag and snag replacement green trees would be retained in numbers
consistent with Regional Guidelines (Appendix K)
Field preparation , NEPA
project design, contracting
and contract administration
High except where
safety concerns or
wood cutting result in
loss.
39
Should any of the following be sighted in the project area during project layout
and implementation, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and unit biologist would
be notified: lynx or a lynx den, bald eagle, new wolf den or rendezvous site,
active goshawk nest. Appropriate protection measures would be implemented
where deemed necessary to protect these species.
NEPA project design,
silvicultural prescription,
field prep, contract
administration/inspection,
and USFWS monitoring
Moderate; based on
public sightings reports
and ESA section 7
consultation.
40
Should an active goshawk nest be discovered within a 450 feet distance of timber
harvest or fuel reduction activities, the nest tree will be protected, as well as a 10-
15 acre no-treatment buffer area around the nest tree, as designated by the unit
biologist to provide for foraging and nesting sites,
Field prep, contract and
contract administration/
inspection
Moderate; based on
IDFG, etal, 1995, State
Conservation Effort
41
The integrity of existing access management restrictions would be maintained
within the planning area for wildlife security purposes. Current access
management restrictions would apply to existing reconstructed roads after
implementation of activities to maintain or improve existing access and wildlife
security. No contractor or their representatives may use motorized vehicles to
hunt or trap animals on a restricted road.
Contract and contract
administration/inspection
High except close to
roads; based on
standard timber sale
contract clauses and
past results monitoring
Heritage Resources
42
Known historic properties or sites would be avoided or protected.
NEPA project design, field
prep, contract, and
administration/inspection
High, objective to
achieve a "no adverse
effect" on these
resources
43
If additional cultural resources are discovered during project operations, all
ground-disturbing activities in that area will be halted until such resources can
be properly documented and evaluated by the Forest. Archaeologist in
compliance with 36 CFR 800.13b3
Contract and contract
administration/ inspection
Moderate based on
recognition of resource
and contact with
Heritage personnel
Noxious Weeds
44
Desirable vegetation would be promptly established on all disturbed areas,
using native and non-native plant species, as approved by the Forest botanist.
Contract and contract
administration/inspection
Moderate based on
experience
45
All named plant cultivars used in revegetation will be certified blue-tagged. All
non-certified seed will be tested by a certified seed laboratory against the all
state noxious weed list and documentation of the seed inspection test provided
to the contract administrator. All straw and mulch would be certified as free of
Contract and contract
administration and
inspection
High, based on
experience
Chapter 2
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
#
46
47
48
Project Design and Mitigation Measure
noxious weed seed.
All mud, soil and plant parts would be removed from all off-road equipment
associated with the project before moving into the project area to limit the
spread of weeds. Cleaning must occur off National Forest lands. This applies
to all ATVs used on and off roads in the project area, but does not apply to
service or hauling vehicles that would stay on the roadway, traveling frequently
in and out of the project area.
All private rock used for surfacing would be county-certified as free of noxious
weed seed. Forest Service rock sources will be reviewed for invasive weeds
by a forest weed specialist or botanist. Borrow pits and stockpiles will not be
used if it is determined that it is infested with an invasive plant that is not found
in the area where the material will be placed.
All small outbreaks of invasive weeds within the project risk zones (Map 16b),
and along all haul routes leading to weed risk zones will be pretreated prior to
ground disturbing activities under the existing wee management program.
Implementation Method
Contract and contract
administration and
inspection
Contract and contract
administration/ inspection
Field prep, contract
Effectiveness
High; based on past
experience
Moderate; based on
past experience
High: based on past
experience
TES Plants
49
50
Candystick, a former Region 1 sensitive plant species, occurs in some
management units. Where live lodgepole are associated with candystick,
groups of live lodgepole pine would be left to protect candystick from
management activities.
During implementation, if activities would impact previously unknown sensitive
plant occurrences, appropriate protection measures would be implemented.
Appropriate measures will vary depending upon the ecology of the species
involved and nature of the proposed action and would be directed by a botanist.
NEPA project design, field
prep, contract and contract
administration/ inspection
Silvicultural prescription,
field preparation, contract,
and contract
administration/inspection
High based on past
monitoring and
experience.
High based on
monitoring, experience,
and logic.
Roadside Salvage1
51
52
53
Roadside salvage would be limited to dead or dying trees, with no harvest of
standing trees more than 20 inches in diameter. (Windthrown trees would not
be subject to the diameter limit.)
Salvage would be limited to areas adjacent to haul roads. No tree cutting or
yarding would occur in RHCAs or in allocated existing or replacement old
growth.
All yarding would be done from the road. Areas above steep cutslopes that
cannot be protected from yarding damage would be omitted from salvage.
Contractor permit
Contractor permit
Contractor permit
High; based on based
experience and
accessibility to sites
High; based on based
experience and
accessibility to sites
High; based on based
experience and
1 Treatments would include roadside salvage within 100 feet of main haul roads. This component of the action would comply with all applicable design
criteria developed for the action as a whole. These design criteria are not intended to limit or interfere with brushing, clearing, or hazard reduction
activities associated with routine road maintenance.
Chapter 2
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
#
54
55
56
57
Project Design and Mitigation Measure
Yarding distance would not exceed 100 feet.
No more than 80 dead or dying trees per mile (approximately 8 trees/acre)
could be designated for cutting on each side of the road.
Maximum opening size is one acre on each side of a road, or a maximum of 400
feet along the road.
Openings would be separated from other forest openings by at least 200 feet of
pole size or larger forest along the road, on both sides, to provide cover for
wildlife crossing.
Slash from salvage would be lopped and scattered, hand piled and burned in
the woods, or removed from the site at the discretion of the District Ranger
considering the Forest objective of maintaining less than 12 tons per acre of
fine fuels.
Implementation Method Effectiveness
Contractor permit
Contractor permit
Contractor permit
Contractor permit
accessibility to sites
High; based on based
experience and
accessibility to sites
High; based on based
experience and
accessibility to sites
High; based on based
experience and
accessibility to sites
High; based on based
experience and
accessibility to sites
Chapter 2
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
Table 2.4: Alternatives in the American and Crooked River Project.
Proposed Activity - Total Project
Acres of
Treatment
Tractor Yard/Machine Pile
Cable Yard/Broadcast Burn
Roadside Salvage
Total Acres Treated
Percent Clearcut
Percent Partial Cut/Thin
Wildland Urban Interface
Miles of Temporary Road Construction2
Miles of Road Reconditioning3
AltB
1,138
945
467
2,550
42%
58%
559
8.0
89.6
AltC
1,172
1,095
477
2,744
42%
58%
731
14.3
77.8
AltD1
1,813
1,173
466
3,452
34%
66%
1113
14.3
90.5
AltE
901
780
475
2,156
28%
72%
290
5.4
94.5
Watershed Restoration Package Improvements
Miles (acres) of decommissioned roads4
Miles of Watershed Road Improvement5
Number of sites of Watershed Road Improvement
Stream crossing improvements6
Miles of instream improvements
Miles of Recreation and Trail improvements
Acres of Recreation and Trail improvements
Acres of Mine Site Reclamation
Acres of Soil Restoration
Acres of Soil Restoration
Access change for vehicle use - motorized trail use
(ATV) to restricted use (miles)7
Access change for vehicle use - road to trail8
13.9
(56)
15.2
1
10
10.3
2.3
0
7
18
1.0
2.6
17.3
(69)
15.8
3
10
11.1
2.3
4
7
26
1.0
2.6
18.9/18.1
(73/74)
16.6/8
3
12/22
11.1/3.5
2.3/2.3
8
7/2
32/26
1.0
2.6
37.0
(147)
24.6
3
35
14.6
4.6
8
9
58
1.0
2.6
Employment Opportunities
Job Years9
163
188
250
152
1 Alternative D includes required and additional restoration. The first number is for required restoration, the second is
additional restoration contingent on available funding. A"/" is displayed between the numbers.
2 Temporary roads would be decommissioned within one to three years of construction.
3 This category includes a range of activities, such as surface blading, drainage repair, and roadway brushing with
occasional culvert installations, slump repairs, and stabilization work. The roadwork in this category is primarily for the
purpose of timber removal.
4 Road decommissioning for this project covers a range of activities, from recontouring to abandonment due to grown in
conditions. See Appendix F
Some of the roadwork in this category is also included in the Miles of Road Reconditioning category in this table.
Although this roadwork is primarily for the purpose of timber removal, it will also result in an improvement in watershed
health.
6 Stream crossing improvements include upgrading or improving culverts and bridges to improve fish passage and peak
water flows and are listed as the number of sites.
7 This is an access change, which restricts use to two wheeled vehicles or snowmobiles over snow, from previous all
terrain vehicle use (ATV).
ft
This is an access change of miles of roads to trails use.
g
Direct Employment Opportunities, year-long.
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
CHAPTER 3 - AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL
CONSEQUENCES OF IMPLEMENTING THE ALTERNATIVES
3.0. INTRODUCTION
3.1. SOILS
3.2. WATERSHED
3.3. FISHERIES
3.4. FIRE
3.5. AIR QUALITY
3.6. RECREATION
3.7. WILD AND SCENIC RIVERS
3.8. TRANSPORTATION
3.9. HERITAGE
3.10. VEGETATION
3.11. WILDLIFE
3.12. SOCIO-ECONOMIC
3.13. WILDERNESS, INVENTORIED ROADLESS AREAS,
AND AREAS WITH POSSIBLE UNROADED
CHARACTERISTICS
08 OS C3 08 (US (IS
Chapter 3
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
3.0. INTRODUCTION
This chapter describes the environmental components that may be affected by implementation
of the proposed action or an alternative to the proposed action in the American and Crooked
River project area. This chapter also describes the environmental consequences of
implementing these alternatives and displays the direct, indirect, cumulative, irreversible, and
irretrievable effects by indicator for each resource.
SCOPE OF THE ANALYSIS
The existing condition describes the baseline condition against which environmental effects can
be evaluated and from which progress toward the desired condition can be measured. Data
and analysis are commensurate with the importance of the possible impacts.
Environmental consequences form the scientific and analytical basis for comparison of
alternatives, including the proposed action, through compliance with Forest Plan standards and
a summary of monitoring required by the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and the
National Forest Management Act (NFMA). The discussion centers on direct, indirect, and
cumulative effects along with applicable mitigation measures. Irreversible and irretrievable
effects are also discussed for each resource indicator. Effects of the action can be neutral
beneficial, or adverse. These terms are defined as follows:
Direct effects are caused by the action and occur at the same time and place.
Indirect effects are caused by the action and are later in time or further removed in distance
but are still reasonably foreseeable.
Cumulative effects are those that result from the incremental impact of the action when added
to other past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future actions.
Irreversible effects are permanent or essentially permanent resource use or losses; they
cannot be reversed, except in the extreme long-term. Examples of irreversible effects include
minerals that have been extracted or soil productivity that has been lost.
Irretrievable effects are losses of productivity or use for a period of time; one example is road
construction on suitable timberlands. Timber growth on the land is irretrievably lost while the
land is used as a road, but the timber resource is not irreversibly lost because the land could
grow trees again in the near future.
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS ANALYSIS
Cumulative effects are discussed for each indicator under each resource. The cumulative
effects analysis area will vary for each resource. Past activities (including grazing, timber
harvest, road building, prescribed fire, stream and meadow restoration in the American and
Crooked River Wildlife Management Area, etc.) are considered part of the existing condition and
are covered under that section. Table 3.1 displays the recently past, current (or present),
ongoing, and reasonably foreseeable future activities within the American and Crooked River
watersheds, as well as in the adjacent watershed that are reasonably foreseeable within, or
adjacent to, the American and Crooked River watersheds.
Chapter 3
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
TABLE 3.1 - PROJECTS CONSIDERED FOR CUMULATIVE EFFECTS WITHIN AND ADJACENT TO THE
AMERICAN AND CROOKED RIVER PROJECT AREA.
Project
Blanco Burn1
Lower Red River
Meadows Restoration 1
Red River Roadside
Hazard Tree
Noxious Weed Program
Crooked River Mining
Activity (Golden Eagle
Operation)
Recreational Suction
Dredging
EMC - Newsome
Nez Perce Tribe
Watershed
improvement projects
(ongoing)
Watershed
improvement projects
(ongoing)
Crooked River Channel
Maintenance
Starbucky
20-21
806
Red River Road
Surfacing
Otter Wing TS
Blue Ridge Ridge2
McComas meadow
burning2
South Fork Corridor
Whiskey South
Upper Red River
Mill Creek
Location
Blanco and Lower
Main Stem of Red
River
Forest wide
Upper Main stem of
SF
Tribal restoration
projects on the Nez
Perce lands
Forest Service
Forest Service
Forest Service
Forest Service
Forest Service
Forest Service
Campbell Creek
Forest Service and
BLM
Tribal restoration
projects on the Nez
Perce
Tribal restoration
Activity
1 ,000 acres of rehabilitation
Spot treatments of herbicide applications
Placer Mining
Placer Mining
Improving road surface - graveling and
grading work
Improving road surface - graveling and
grading work
200 yards of channel restoration
Timber Sale
Defensible space burning project
Timber harvest with prescribed burning
T.S.
Prescribed burning project
Prescribed burning project
Prescribed burning project
Treating fuels, creating fuel breaks,
timber sale and reading
Culvert replacement & road
decommissioning
Culvert replacement
TIME PERIOD
Ongoing
Ongoing
Complete
except for
placing large
woody debris
Ongoing
Current
Ongoing
Current
Current
Current
Current
Current
Current
Current
Current
Current
Current
Current
Current
Current
Current
Foreseeable
Future
Foreseeable
1 Above the mouth of Crooked/American - Upper South Fork
2 Below the mouth of Crooked/American - Upper South Fork
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
Project
Newsome channel,
Improvement and Road
Decommissioning
School District Timber
Sale
Tract 39 (Land
Exchange - FS land for
Seminal Tribe lands)
Blacktail 2
Meadow Face2
Red River DSP
Orogrande DSP
Newsome Townsite
DSP
Crooked River
Demonstration
Red Pines E1S
Slims fireline
restoration1
Templeton
Genesis
This-is-it Placer
Eastside Township
Projects
Aquatic Restoration
Projects
Lucky Marble
East Fork Crooked
River Bridge
Bullied Grouse
Bennett Logging
Logging on Private Land
Range Allotments
Developed Recreation
Site maintenance and
Trail Maintenance
Hungry Mill1
Location
projects on the Nez
Perce
Tribal restoration
projects on the Nez
Perce
Forest Service
Forest Service
Forest Service
Forest Service
Crooked River
BLM
BLM
FS
Private land
Activity
Channel Improvement and road
decommissioning Culvert replacement
Timber removal on approximately 16
acres
Fuel reduction followed by a Rx burn
Defensible space burning project
Defensible space burning project
Defensible space burning project
Catastrophic fireline restoration
Suction Dredging
Suction Dredging
Fuels work
New bridge construction
Timber removal on approximately 640
acres and reading
Timber removal on approximately 100
acres and reading
TIME PERIOD
Future
Foreseeable
Future
Foreseeable
Future
Foreseeable
Future
Foreseeable
Future
Foreseeable
Future
Complete
Foreseeable
Future
Foreseeable
Future
Past
Foreseeable
Future
Past
Foreseeable
Future
Foreseeable
Future
Foreseeable
Future
Foreseeable
Future
Foreseeable
Future
Complete
Past
Past
Ongoing
Ongoing
Past
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
Project
Red River Instream
Improvements BPA
Crooked River Instream
Improvements BPA
Newsome Creek
Instream Improvements
Mill Creek Instream
Improvements BPA
Meadow Creek Fish
Passage BPA
American River
Instream Improvements
Relief Creek Instream
Improvements
Location
Forest Service
Forest Service
Forest Service
Forest Service
Forest Service
Bureau of Land
Management
Forest Service
Activity
Instream Structures and Riparian
Planting
Instream Structures, Riparian Planting,
Side Channels, Connecting Ponds
Instream Structures, Riparian Planting,
Side Channels, Connecting Ponds
Instream Structures and Riparian
Planting
Improving Anadromous Fish Passage
Instream Structures and Riparian
Planting
Instream Structures and Riparian
Planting
TIME PERIOD
Past
Past
Past
Past
Past
Past
Past
AMERICAN RIVER HISTORIC ACTIVITIES
The post-settlement development history of American River dates to the mid-19th century. Gold
discoveries provided the initial impetus for mining, road and trail development, grazing,
homesteading, and early timber harvest. In recent decades, watershed and instream
improvement projects have been implemented. These activities have affected the aquatic and
terrestrial conditions in American River. Further description of these activities and analysis of
their effects on various resources are provided in the. individual resource sections.
What follows in this section are summaries of specific Nez Perce National Forest (NPNF) timber
harvest projects and historic road construction in the American River watershed. These data
contributed to the cumulative effects analysis in specific resource sections. The information
displayed in this document is a compilation of known historic data and additional historic data is
not available (40 CFR 1502.22).
Forest records were queried to determine historic timber harvest in American River. Most of the
larger timber sales also included road construction. From the NPNF Watershed Database, total
recorded timber harvest in the 1950s was 142 acres; 1960s was 2,687 acres; 1970s was 2,591
acres; 1980s was 1,977 acres; 1990s was 5,168 acres; and 2000s to date has been 809 acres.
The watershed database includes activities on private lands within American River. Timber
harvest occurred prior to the 1950s, associated with mining and homesteading activities. This
data is unavailable (40 CFR 1502.22).
The NPNF Timber Stand Database (TSMRS) was queried to determine harvest area associated
with named timber sales. Table 3.2 shows the results of that query for timber sales by name
greater than 100 acres in size.
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TABLE 3.2 - NPNF TIMBER HARVEST HISTORY IN AMERICAN RIVER
1 Timber Sale | Time Period | Acres
Erickson Ridge
Little Elk
Big Elk
Haysfork Creek
Wart Creek
East Fork/Flint Creek
Box Sing
Limber Luke
Flint Creek
Kirks Fork
Wigwam
Sparky
East Fork American
Limber Meadows
Misc unnamed and small projects
Totals
1957-1966
1962-1967
1962-1969
1965-1970
1969
1972-1975
1976-1981
1978-1981
1982-1984
1983-1985
1985-1986
1992-1994
1994-1996
1998
Various
297
739
481
238
190
263
125
661
398
241
100
293
412
194
1367
5999
Road construction history in American River was summarized from the NPNF Watershed
Database. The earliest road construction recorded in the database was dated 1890. Timber
harvest and road construction history for American River are displayed on Map 14a.
TABLE 3.3 - HISTORIC ROAD CONSTRUCTION -AMERICAN RIVER
Year
Prior to 1950
1950-1959
1960-1969
1970-1979
1980-1989
1990-1999
2000-2004
Total to date
Miles of Road
49.40
5.70
75.00
48.40
40.40
47.10
3.30
269.30
CROOKED RIVER HISTORIC ACTIVITIES
The post-settlement development history of Crooked River dates to the mid-19th century. Gold
discoveries provided the initial impetus for mining, road, and trail development, grazing
homesteading and early timber harvest. In recent decades watershed and instream
improvement projects have been implemented. These activities have affected the aquatic and
terrestrial conditions in American River. Further description of these activities and analysis of
their effects on various resources are provided in the individual resource sections.
What follows in this section are summaries of specific NPNF timber harvest projects and historic
road construction in the Crooked River watershed. These data contributed to the cumulative
effects analysis in specific resource sections.
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Forest records were queried to determine historic timber harvest in Crooked River. Most of the
larger timber sales also included road construction. From the Forest's Watershed Database,
total recorded timber harvest in the 1960s was 123 acres; 1970s was 2,292 acres; 1980s was
2,671 acres; 1990s was 9000 acres; and none has occurred in the 2000s to date. Timber
harvest occurred prior to the 1950s, associated with mining and homesteading activities. This
data is unknown (Title 40 CFR 1502.22). Most of the larger timber sales also included road
construction. No recorded timber harvest occurred in the 1950s.
The NPNF TSMRS database was queried to determine harvest area associated with named
timber sales. Table 3.4 shows the results of that query for timber sales by name greater than
100 acres in size.
TABLE 3.4 - NPNF TIMBER HARVEST HISTORY IN CROOKED RIVER
Timber Sale
South Wheeler
Deadwood Mountain
Relief Creek
Silver Salvage
Quartz Relief
Crooked River
Dead French
Shooting Star
Lower Crooked River
Misc unnamed and small projects
Totals
Time Period
1969-1970
1969-1971
1973-1977
1979-1983
1985-1987
1986-1988
1986-1988
1990-1993
1992
Various
Acres
280
109
1,158
102
825
664
315
368
225
885
4931
Road construction history in Crooked River was summarized from the NPNF Watershed
Database. The earliest road construction recorded in the database was dated 1890. Timber
harvest and road construction history for Crooked River are displayed on Map 14b.
TABLE 3.5 - HISTORIC ROAD CONSTRUCTION - CROOKED RIVER
Year
Prior to 1950
1950-1959
1960-1969
1970-1979
1980-1989
1990-1999
2000-2004
Total to date
Miles of Road
31.20
6.60
11.40
25.20
71.30
4.70
0.00
150.40
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES
The discussion of affected environment and environmental consequences is organized by
resource. Under each resource, the existing conditions are described for each indicator,
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
followed by the environmental effects discussion, by indicator for each alternative. Compliance
with Forest Plan Standards (USDA FS, 1987a, Chap 2 (E)) is summarized at the end of each
resource section. Some standards may not be applicable for this project as they may be a
forest-wide standard and are not appropriate to be analyzed at the project level. These are also
identified and an explanation of why they are not appropriate is provided.
3.1. SOILS
SCOPE OF THE ANALYSIS
The scope of the analysis for soils, including landslide risk, includes the American River and
Crooked River watersheds. Each of the two watersheds will be addressed separately.
The temporal bounds for soil and displacement effects are 70 years or more based on recovery
curves developed on the Payette National Forest (Froelich et a/., 1985, Geist et a/., 1989 as
cited in Page-Dumroese, 1993), and pre-project monitoring completed in 2002 for the Meadow
Face Stewardship project (USDA FS, 2002) and the Red River Watershed Assessment (USDA
FS, 2003a). Results from this field monitoring indicate little recovery over 30 to 50 years.
Temporal bounds for recovery of hot slash pile burns are not known, but effects are evident 30
years after burning.
Soil erosion may decline to negligible within five years on burned and harvested areas. Mass
wasting is considered to affect soil productivity for 20 years or more, until soil organic matter
accumulates and colluvium fills in channels scoured by debris torrents.
Temporal bounds for potassium effects are indefinite since rates of geologic input of potassium
are very slow in Belt-age metamorphic rocks susceptible to potassium loss.
Temporal bounds for road-related effects are indefinite, because roads may continue to erode
and produce sediment throughout their life, although peak erosion is typically at construction.
Temporal bounds for large woody debris effects are 172 to 573 years, the time needed to
develop a new stand, generate mortality in mature trees, and then see them fall and decay into
soil wood (Harvey et al, 1987).
Soil productivity is the inherent capacity of a soil to support the growth of specified plants, plant
communities, and soil biota. Soil also performs an important role in hydrologic function: the
ability of the soil to absorb, store, and transmit water both vertically and horizontally. Elements
selected and indicators to evaluate and compare the alternatives in regard to soil productivity
are associated with soil physical, chemical, and biological properties.
SOIL PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
INDICATORS INCLUDE:
SOIL COMPACTION AND DISPLACEMENT
• Acres of ground based logging and/or machine piling on soils highly susceptible to
compaction and displacement (USDA FS, 1987b, Page-Dumroese, 1993)
• Acres of road construction
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• Acres of soil restoration
• Acres of road decommissioning through full recontouring.
SURFACE AND SUBSTRATUM EROSION
• Acres of harvest on soils rated as high hazard for surface soil erosion (USDA FS, 1987b)
• Acres of road construction on soil substrata (parent materials) rated as high hazard for
erosion (USDA FS, 1987b)
• Acres of road decommissioning and soil restoration.
MASS EROSION
• Acres of harvest and road construction on terrain rated high for landslide hazard
COMPLIANCE WITH FOREST SOIL QUALITY STANDARDS
• Number of proposed activity areas estimated to have sustained detrimental soil
disturbance in excess of forest plan standards using definitions of the Northern Region
soil quality guidelines (USDA FS, 1999b).
SOIL CHEMICAL AND BIOLOGICAL PROPERTIES
INDICATORS INCLUDE:
INDICATORS OF SOIL POTASSIUM AND NITROGEN LOSS
• Potassium - Acres of whole tree yarding with more than 50 percent crown removal on
metamorphic rock types susceptible to potassium deficiency.
• Nitrogen - Acres of whole tree yarding with more than 50 percent crown removal on any
rock type.
INDICATORS OF POTENTIAL LOSS OF LARGE WOOD
• Acres of clearcut harvest and slash disposal
REGULATORY FRAMEWORK
The Multiple Use-Sustained Yield Act of 1960 directs the Forest Service to achieve and
maintain outputs of various renewable resources in perpetuity without permanent impairment of
the land's productivity.
Section 6 of the National Forest Management Act of 1976 charges the Secretary of Agriculture
with ensuring research and continuous monitoring of each management system to safeguard
the land's productivity.
The Code of Federal Regulations for NFMA (Title 36 CFR 219.27, 2004) states that all
management prescriptions shall conserve soil and water resources and not allow significant or
permanent impairment of site productivity.
The 2005 Code of Regulations for Forest Planning (Title 36 CFR 219.12) requires the Forest
Service to ensure that forest plans include the resource management guidelines required by 16
U.S.C. 1604 (g)(3)E(i). That code requires that timber will be harvested from National Forest
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System lands only where soil, slope, or other watershed conditions will not be irreversibly
damaged. The guidelines were built into the 1987 Forest Plan as standards.
The Nez Perce Forest Plan (USDA FS, 1987a) directs the management of soil and water
resources at levels designed to meet Forest management objectives for watersheds. The
delineation, management, and protection of landslide prone areas and wetland soils are
addressed in Forest Plan Amendment 20 (USDA FS 1987a, PACFISH). "Best management
practices" shall be applied to all land-disturbing activities, including prevention of soil erosion
during land management activities. The Plan additionally directs that we manage the soil
resource such that the potential for soil productivity is maintained through the following
standards:
1. Evaluate the potential for compaction, puddling, mass wasting, and soil erosion for all
ground-disturbing activities,
2. Ensure that a minimum of 80 percent of an activity area (such as a timber harvest unit) is
not detrimentally compacted, displaced, or puddled upon completion of activities
3. Maintain sufficient ground cover to minimize rill erosion and sloughing on road cut and fill
slopes and sheet erosion on other activity areas (USDA FS, 1987a, p. II-22).
Northern Region Soil Quality Guidelines (USDA FS, 1999b) direct us to manage National Forest
System lands without permanent impairment of land productivity and to maintain or improve soil
quality.
For the two watershed project areas, the Nez Perce National Forest Plan soil standards will
apply without amendment. Any harvest unit found to exceed the 20 percent detrimental
disturbance threshold from past human-caused activities will not be entered, unless additional
impacts do not result in any increase in area of detrimental disturbance. Where past human-
caused activities have resulted in detrimental disturbance below 20 percent, cumulative impacts
upon completion of activities proposed for this project must not exceed 20 percent.
Detrimental disturbance is defined as a 15 percent increase in natural bulk density; wheel ruts at
least 2 inches deep in wet soils; removal of 1 or more inches depth of any surface soil horizon;
from a continuous area greater than 100 square feet, high intensity burns of long duration that
alter soil physical and biological properties; and rills, gullies, pedestals and soil deposition
indicative of detrimental surface erosion (USDA FS, 1999b).
ANALYSIS METHODS
Baseline conditions and ecosystem processes are derived from ecological land unit mapping
and field reconnaissance. Soil susceptibility to compaction, displacement, and erosion was
inferred from soil survey map units (USDA FS, 1987b), and field reconnaissance for this project.
Past soil compaction and displacement were inferred from areas that have been tractor logged
or dozer piled, as documented in the Timber Stand Management Record System (TSMRS), and
through photo interpretation or field reconnaissance. The linkage between tractor operation,
machine piling, and soil compaction, displacement, and soil productivity is established through
scientific research (Cullen et a/., 1991, Froelich et a/., 1983) and Forest monitoring (USDA FS
1988a, 1990, 1992, 1999c, 2003b, 2003c, and 2003c). Field surveys identified few areas of any
prior impacts. A few units had limited evidence of skidding in small portions of the unit, and are
well within Forest Plan standards (field notes on file at Forest headquarters). Any units that had
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significant prior impacts were dropped from further consideration. Remaining units are
expected to fully meet soil quality standards prior to the proposed activity.
Sensitivity to soil potassium and nitrogen loss was estimated using the work of Garrison and
Moore, 1998.
The management strategy for landslide prone terrain is to minimize risk of slope failure in
response to management activities. This tiers to the three level approach of Prellwitz, et al
(1983). At level I (resource allocation) stability analysis delineates areas susceptible to
landslides on a broad scale to identify areas of greatest hazard. A landslide inventory is
correlated to features of slope, geology, vegetation, etc. This usually uses available information
like soil surveys or geologic hazard maps developed from low intensity sampling. At level II
(project planning), areas of instability are identified more specifically on the ground through
reconnaissance or more advanced modeling. This may use expertise of engineers and soil
scientists. At this level, decisions can be made to avoid or continue. For this project, avoidance
has been selected. Continuance would require isolation of critical sites for more thorough
analysis. These are usually road routes. At level III, complex analyses requiring site visits and
sampling and development of road stabilization plans are required.
No harvest or road construction will occur on areas of high landslide hazard. Any currently
proposed road construction or harvest on high landslide hazard terrain will be field verified and
amended to avoid areas of high risk.
Susceptibility to mass wasting was estimated using Forest protocols described in reports on file
at Forest Headquarters (USDA FS 1996a and 2002a). Hazard rating for landslides is defined
conservatively for this Forest and this project. The following definition was used in mapping and
field evaluations.
Lands rated high tend to have the following properties:
Slopes generally in excess of 60 percent with one or more of the following features well
expressed:
• High drainage dissection indicative of debris torrent tracks, shallow soils, or subsoil
moisture concentration, concave slopes, scarps or hummocks showing past landslide
activity, steep concave lower slope positions that collect subsoil moisture, areas of jack-
strawed trees, pistol butting, significant creep, concentrations of soil moisture on steep
slopes. Landtype 50EUU is landslide derived terrain on steep slopes and may often
include significant areas of high risk.
Lands mapped as moderate tend to have the following properties:
• Landtype 50-CUUs with little evidence of recent movement. These are landslide derived
terrain features. SOCUUs should always be evaluated on site before dismissal. Expect
to find local areas of high risk within SOCUUs and other lands rated as moderate, and
drop these high-risk local areas from harvest. Some areas might be determined low-risk
after field evaluation; however, others will require modified prescription to sustain low
risk.
• Steep straight or convex slopes with few other indicators: 55-70 percent stable convex
slopes perhaps sometimes up to 75 percent. In the American Crooked area, some 40-
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60 percent slopes were rated moderate where they were in concave slope positions, or
appeared to be associated with water concentrations. Steep slopes may have
productivity issues and regeneration issues aside from stability that should be evaluated
on site. To be moderate, areas of steep slopes should show no topographic or
photographic evidence of debris torrent tracks, debris avalanche scars, steep moist
concave swales, scarps or depositional lobes, and no to very little tree creep or pistol
butting and no jack-strawed trees.
Lands not mapped as high or moderate are rated low, and the likelihood of finding unstable
areas should be low, but can occur. Watershed specialists, timber sale layout and marking
crews are taught to recognize and mitigate for included unstable areas through avoidance or
preferential leave tree marking of large and deep-rooted species like ponderosa pine or Douglas
fir.
Field reconnaissance surveys were comprehensive over more than half of the original project
area (project maps and notes on file at Forest headquarters), and focused particularly on areas
where preliminary indicators of slope instability were present. Areas of questionable stability
were eliminated from further consideration. Eighty-nine percent of the acres in surveyed units
were deemed at low risk of mass erosion by the project soil scientist. The remaining acres were
rated as slight or localized risk and are addressed in the design and mitigation measures.
Instances of instability after the flood years of 1996-97 were not evident anywhere, neither on
harvest units nor roads. Very little evidence of past road failures was observed since their
construction, even on terrain mapped as high hazard, with the exception of small road cut
sloughing along the main Crooked River Road 233. Level I Stability Analysis (Hammond ef a/.,
1992) applied to representative landtypes, assuming complete clearcuts, yielded estimated
factors of safety of 1.03-1.88, and a probability of failure of 0.000 on landtypes rated as
moderate hazard (USDA FS, 1987b). In these settings, areas of risk are expected to be few,
small, and readily avoidable through project layout or adjustment of prescription. See Table 2.3,
which includes provision for avoiding areas of high hazard and addressing risk through site-
specific adjustments of treatments on areas of moderate hazard.
3.1.1. AMERICAN RIVER
EXISTING CONDITION - AMERICAN RIVER
INTRODUCTION
The South Fork Clearwater River Landscape Assessment (USDA FS, 1998a) recommended,
"Restore aquatic processes" as the area theme for the American River watershed within which
the project area occurs. The priority is high for American River. Restoration is to include both
restoration of aquatic conditions and processes in the watershed and adjustments to the road
and trail system to support aquatic restoration and provide for administrative and public uses
and maintain wildlife security. The Landscape Assessment is not a decision document, but
does provide important synthesis of existing condition and resource potential in the watershed.
Soil resource management affects aquatic processes primarily through erosion, mass wasting,
and soil compaction or disturbance that affects subsurface slope hydrology.
GEOLOGY, SOIL DEVELOPMENT, AND LANDFORMS
Rocks weather to form soil parent material; and soil texture, chemistry, and resistance to
erosion are highly conditioned by geology.
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
Metamorphic rocks or their derivatives comprise 97 percent of the rock types in the watershed.
Belt-age metamorphic rocks: gneiss, schist, and quartzite, weather to sandy loam, loamy sand,
or sand parent materials and develop into soil parent materials that are rated moderate to high
for substratum erosion hazard (USDA FS, 1987b). Tertiary sediments and other alluvium are
important in the American River Township, and are stratified sediments derived from the same
geologic materials. They typically weather into soil parent materials that are rated moderate to
high for substratum erosion hazard (USDA FS, 1987b). These materials typically have low
levels of inherent nutrients, and moderate to poor ability to retain nutrients (Garrison and Moore,
1998). Potassium deficiencies noted in these rock types can affect tree growth and
susceptibility to root disease.
Granitics comprise about 3 percent of the project area. They are higher in certain nutrients,
including potassium, but weather to sandy soils with low ability to retain nutrients. They typically
weather into soil parent materials that are rated high to very high for substratum erosion hazard
(USDAFS, 1987b).
Most soils in the project area have surface layers formed in volcanic ash-influenced loess
derived from the eruption of Mt. Mazama about 6700 years ago. This material is physically
highly favorable to root growth, being very permeable and with a high ability to hold moisture
and nutrients. This material is very easy to compact or displace at any moisture content (Page-
Dumroese, 1993), and is essentially irreplaceable.
Soil response to disturbance depends not only on soil type, but topographic setting and slope
hydrology. Landforms have characteristic slope shape, steepness, and stream dissection,
which affect erosion and sediment delivery to streams.
• Rolling hills of low to moderate relief dominate the watershed at lower and mid
elevations (80 percent of the watershed). The volcanic ash influenced soil surface
layers buffer against erosion except where soil substrata are exposed, as in roads or
mines. Substratum erosion hazard is moderate to high. Slopes are gentle to moderate
and sediment is delivered to streams with moderate efficiency. Unstable slopes are
uncommon, and typically occur as small areas on lower slopes or near stream
headlands. West and south facing slopes at low elevation may have thin or mixed ash
surface layers. These soils do not hold moisture as well as ash-influenced soils and are
more susceptible to surface erosion.
• Stream breaklands and steep mountain slopes are of limited extent in the watershed (8
percent). In comparison to rolling hills, breaklands have steep slopes, shallower soils,
thin or mixed loess surface layers, higher surface erosion risk, higher risk of mass
failure, and more rapid delivery of sediment to streams. Debris torrents can occur in
headwater channels after intense rainstorms or rain-on-snow events.
• Convex slopes are found at upper elevations (5 percent of the area). In comparison to
rolling hills, convex slopes have broader ridges, lower drainage density, and bedrock is
usually deeply fractured. Volcanic ash surface layers are typically present and buffer
against surface erosion. Substratum erosion hazard is high. Slopes are gentle to
moderate and sediment is delivered to streams with low efficiency. Unstable slopes are
uncommon, and typically occur as small areas on lower slopes or near stream
headlands.
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• Alluvial valleys form along low gradient stream channels (3 percent of the watershed).
Soils are often poorly drained and subject to water transport most of the year. Substrata
are coarse sands with gravel and cobble. Some have been dredge mined and only
coarse mine spoils remain. Sediment delivery efficiency is very high (USDA FS, 1987b);
most of this landform is a riparian area.
EXISTING CONDITION - AMERICAN RIVER: SOIL PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
EXISTING CONDITION: SOIL COMPACTION AND DISPLACEMENT
Road building, mining, tractor logging, machine piling, and grazing have impacted soils in
American River.
Mining effects have been localized but severe: soils in dredge and placer-mined areas have
been removed, and sterile tailing piles remain. Soil recovery has been very slow and some of
these areas still act as sediment sources. A minimum of 307 acres of this condition occurs in
the analysis area.
About 11,314 acres (19 percent of the watershed) have been tractor logged, machine piled or
displaced by mining or development, resulting in soil compaction and displacement over some
of that area. This estimate is derived from timber stand record systems, photo interpretation,
and field reconnaissance. Where the volcanic ash surface layer is compacted, displaced or
mixed, soil moisture holding capacity is significantly impaired (USDA FS, 1999c). Harvest units
that were tractor logged and dozer piled average 52 percent of the activity area damaged in the
adjacent Red River watershed (USDA FS, 2003a), which has similar landforms and soils. Units
that were tractor logged and broadcast burned in that watershed averaged 38 percent damaged
(USDA FS, 2003a). Units that were tractor logged, but not dozer piled or scarified, sustained
12-42 percent damage. Other monitoring data indicate 15-25 percent damage for tractor
logging without machine piling (USDA FS, 1990 and 1991).
Excavator piling has been documented on 250 acres in American River. This is usually less
impactive than dozer piling, but can still sometimes result in more than 20 percent detrimental
disturbance. An estimate of total soil damage from past ground-based logging is 35 percent of
the total area tractor logged, or 3,960 acres.
About 778 acres of cable yarding have occurred in American River. Soil damage is usually
confined to yarding corridors and landings, and accounts for about 4 percent of the activity area,
based on monitoring in other areas (USDA FS, 2003b).
Road construction also displaces soil, with long-term to permanent impairment of soil
productivity. About 860 acres of documented system roads occur where topsoil and subsoil
have been displaced, mixed, or lost to erosion. This represents about 1.5 percent of the
analysis area. Additional undocumented non-system roads occur in the Elk City Township.
Motorized and non-motorized trails account for an estimated 65 acres of soil disturbance. Soils
are both compacted and displaced. Numerous undocumented user-created ATV trails exist,
which add to the amount of detrimental disturbance in the project area.
The larger privately owned meadows near Elk City have been grazed since the mining era, and
about 700 acres are likely to have been most compacted. Grazing after the fires of 1889, 1910,
and 1919 was probably widespread in the burned areas of the watershed. The current
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
American River allotment runs 180 cows in the upper part of the watershed and over the
watershed divide into the Selway subbasin.
EXISTING CONDITION: SURFACE AND SUBSTRATUM EROSION
Road building is the primary current source of erosion and sediment production in the project
area. Forty-two percent of the watershed is rated high for substratum erosion hazard (USDA
FS, 1987b). About 251 acres of past road construction (about 63 miles) are on soil substrata
that are rated high for erosion hazard. Road erosion and sediment yield usually decline over
time, but continue at a chronic level indefinitely (Cline, et al, 1981). Periodic large pulses of
erosion may occur during intense or prolonged rainstorms or rain-on-snow events, or after
burning or harvest that increases water yield and overland flow in interaction with road drainage
systems (Wemple, 1994).
Past mining has caused locally severe erosion of both surface soil and substrata, often
concentrated in valleys where eroded material can reach streams: American River, Little and
Big Elk Creeks, and Buffalo Gulch have been most affected (USDA FS, 1998a). A minimum of
307 acres has been affected by dredge mining. Other upland mine sediment sources also exist,
where soils have been displaced.
Past fires have resulted in locally severe surface erosion, but post-fire erosion typically declines
to negligible with vegetation recovery in about 4 years (Megahan, cited in Cline, et al, 1981; and
Elliot, Robichaud, and Brown, 1999 as shown in Elliot and Robichaud, 2001). The most recent
large fire occurred in 1919. This fire burned about 24,000 acres or 41 percent of the watershed.
This was also the largest documented fire in American River. Other large fires burned in 1878,
1889, and 1910. Human ignitions may have been a factor in these fires, but 1889, 1910, and
1919 were severe fire years throughout the region (Barrett et al., 1997).
Surface erosion from timber harvest has been slight. The volcanic ash-influenced surface soil is
rated as low surface erosion hazard (USDA FS, 1987b) and occurs over more than 75 percent
of the project area. Excavated skid trails and temporary roads are prone to erosion because the
surface soil is removed. About 507 acres have been harvested in the past on soils with high
surface erosion potential. These are on steep slopes, usually on south aspects, or in riparian
areas where soil is readily detached and transported by water. Harvest has occurred on 510
acres on soils with moderate surface erosion hazard. They are usually on steep slopes on north
aspects. Surface erosion on harvest units typically declines to negligible over time, except for
some landings, excavated skid trails, and temporary roads that remain on the landscape (Cline,
etal, 1981).
Motorized and non-motorized trails account for 65 acres of soil disturbance, susceptible to
surface and subsurface erosion. Thirty-five acres are on soil substrata rated high for erosion
hazard. Numerous undocumented user-created ATV trails exist in addition to the system trails,
and add disproportionately to the amount of erosion in the project area, because they may go
straight up slopes or cross creeks, and have no erosion controls. They are often gullied or
rutted.
EXISTING CONDITION: MASS EROSION
Landslide hazard is low in most of the analysis area, and few instances of mass erosion have
occurred in harvest units or along roads.
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Mass erosion is the movement of large bodies of soil under the effect of gravity. Movement may
be accelerated by high moisture levels, undercutting of toe slopes, or loss of tree rooting
strength, among other factors (Chatwin, et al, 1991). Landslides here include slumps, creep,
debris avalanches or flows, debris torrents, and bedrock slides. Landslides can result in on-site
loss of soil productivity, as surface soils are translocated down slope. Sediment delivered to
streams may comprise fine sediments, which could have negative impacts, or larger rock and
large organic debris, which could enhance stream habitat complexity.
About 362 acres (less than ;6 percent of the analysis area) are mapped as high hazard for
landslides. These are steep slopes, especially in concave headwalls, and features that show
evidence of past mass wasting. Debris avalanche, debris torrent, and shallow slumps are the
most likely kinds of mass failures in the area, but field reconnaissance indicates past mass
wasting has been generally restricted to small scale-events with modest impacts. Tertiary
sediments are common in the Elk City Township. These materials are prone to small slumps
when saturated, especially road cut failures (USDA FS, 1987b).
Road construction in such settings may precipitate road cut or fill failures, and occasionally loss
of the road prism, or, by undercutting a toe slope, activate a landslide upslope. Only 1 acre of
road construction and 33 acres of timber harvest have occurred on land rated high for landslide
risk. No documented landslide response has occurred on these areas. During the flood
episode of 1996-1997, no mass erosion was reported in the analysis area. Field
reconnaissance for this project found few instances of mass wasting from roads and old harvest
units (Gerhardt, N., 2003).
EXISTING CONDITION: COMPLIANCE WITH FOREST AND REGIONAL SOIL QUALITY STANDARDS
An estimated 73 percent (208) of past activity areas on FS lands in American River today would
show detrimental soil disturbance in excess of 20 percent.
Soil quality standards apply to activity areas other than the dedicated transportation system and
administrative sites. Activity areas include temporary roads, harvest units, mine sites, grazed
areas, and burned areas. This discussion focuses on Forest Soil Standard number 2: areal
extent of detrimental soil disturbance. Refer to the Legal Framework in the Soil Resource
section. Compliance is only considered here for Forest Service lands, since the same
standards do not apply to BLM or private lands. Standards were not in place prior to 1987, but
using the standards as a reference helps understand existing conditions in the analysis area.
About 5,829 acres (287 activity areas) have been tractor-logged or mined on FS lands, or 14
percent of the FS lands in the watershed. About 90 percent of logging has been ground-based.
Most of this logging occurred from 1960-1989. American River is considered similar in soils and
logging history to Red River, where 80 percent of sampled tractor logged activity areas did not
meet Forest Plan standards. In many instances, these impacts occurred prior to forest plan
implementation, but monitoring of more recent activities shows inconsistent improvement in
practices. This degree of soil damage is consistent both with other Forest monitoring (USDA FS
1988a, 1990, 1992), and research (Krag, 1991; Froelich, 1978; Davis, 1990, Alexander and
Poff, 1985).
Cable logging typically produces relatively little soil damage (research cited in Alexander and
Poff, 1985). Two sampled cable-logging units in Red River each showed 4 percent detrimental
disturbance. About 286 acres, about 0.7 percent of the Forest Service lands in the American
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
River watershed, have been cable-logged. This amounts to 29 activity areas, all of which are
expected to meet current soil quality standards.
EXISTING CONDITION - AMERICAN RIVER: SOIL CHEMICAL AND BIOLOGICAL PROPERTIES
EXISTING CONDITION: SOIL POTASSIUM AND NITROGEN
Clearcut harvest, yarding of tops and limbs, and piling and burning slash have locally affected
nitrogen and potassium reserves in about 15 percent of the watershed.
The inherent rock nutrient status of the local metamorphic gneisses, schists, and quartzites in
American River is rated as medium to poor (Garrison and Moore, 1998), but no sampling
specific to the analysis area has been done. Their expected soil nutrient status is also medium
to low (Buol, et al, 1989). These rock types account for about 85 percent of the analysis area.
Only 130 acres of YUM yarding (yarding unmerchantable material) or yarding of slash has been
documented in the analysis area, on this geologic material. Much of this yarding may have
been bole only, but tops and limbs may also have been removed. Removal of tops and limbs is
likely to result in about twice as much potassium loss as bole-only yarding, so a few localized
areas may have sustained potassium loss. Burning at temperatures of 750° C or more will
volatilize potassium (Hungerford, et al, 1991). These temperatures can be attained in burning
slash piles (Glassy and Svalberg, 1981), which has been a common practice in the watershed
(1,173 acres). This does not include undocumented acres where piling and burning have
occurred within the Township, or past wildfires.
Granites are rated as having good inherent nutrient status, but medium to low soil nutrient
status because of their poor capacity for nutrient retention. Granites account for about 3
percent of the analysis area. Alluvial deposits of mixed origin comprise the remainder.
Volcanic ash surface soils have nutrient holding capacity and good moisture storage capacity,
but may not have high levels of available soil nutrients, including potassium (Stark and Spitzner,
1982).
Of the tree species likely to be removed, grand fir accumulates the highest foliar levels of
potassium. Harvesting tops of this species is more likely to deplete soil potassium than
harvesting lodgepole pine tops, which have the lowest levels of foliar potassium (Moore, et al,
2004).
Soil nitrogen is typically limiting in all rock and soil types and whole tree yarding has similar or
greater effects on soil nitrogen reservoirs (Shaw, 2003). Soil nitrogen can be replenished more
rapidly through nitrogen fixation or atmospheric deposition than can potassium, which must
weather from rocks.
About 8,820 acres, or about 15 percent of the American River watershed, have been clearcut
harvested with dozer piling or broadcast burning. Nitrogen losses have probably been
substantial on these sites. Because slash disposal burns logs on the ground rather than
standing trees, soil temperatures can be hotter and nitrogen loss by volatilization may therefore
be greater than with a wildfire.
EXISTING CONDITION: SOIL WOOD
Clearcut harvest, intensive slash treatments have locally affected coarse woody debris over
about 15 percent of the watershed.
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
Coarse woody debris (CWD) is woody material derived from tree limbs, boles, and roots in
various stages of decay, here defined as that larger than 3 inches in diameter (Graham, et a/,
1994). Coarse woody debris protects the soil from erosion, contributes to wildlife and fisheries
habitat, and moderates soil microclimate. Highly decayed CWD can hold more water than
mineral soil, provides sites for nitrogen fixation, and releases nutrients through decay or
burning. Highly decayed wood provides sites for ectomycorrhizal colonization, which
contributes to plant growth and plays a role in the food chains of many small rodents and their
predators.
Coarse woody debris in natural systems fluctuates with forest growth, mortality, fire, and decay.
Harvest and slash burning can remove large wood to a degree that its soil function is impaired,
since both standing boles and down wood may be much reduced.
About 8,820 acres, or about 15 percent of the American River watershed, have been clearcut
harvested with dozer piling or broadcast burning. Most of this harvest was prior to 1990, when
the first large woody debris prescriptions might have been implemented. Field reconnaissance
in the adjacent Red River watershed indicates large woody debris is deficient on such sites, in
comparison to most natural disturbance regimes. In addition, very few green trees or snags
were left on regeneration harvest units, so that very few trees are available for recruitment over
the next 50-100 years.
Areas of old forest in moist habitats and areas of past mortality of lodgepole pine in the beetle
outbreak of the 1980s may have heavy loads of CWD. They are not unnaturally high, but are
susceptible to consumption by wildfire. Wildfire would consume some material and create dead
standing timber, which would be recruited as large woody debris over time.
3.1.1.1. ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS: SOIL PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
SOIL COMPACTION AND DISPLACEMENT
DIRECT EFFECTS
TABLE 3.6 - INDICATORS OF SOIL COMPACTION AND DISPLACEMENT: AMERICAN RIVER
Activity
Acres of ground-based timber harvest on soils rated high for
compaction or displacement hazard plus new temporary road
construction
Acres of required/additional soil restoration on old harvest
units. Most are associated with roads to be decommissioned.
Acres of required/additional soil restoration through
decommissioning of old roads
Alternative
A
0
0
0
B
424
5/0
20/0
c
516
8/0
30/0
D1
764
10/10
34/44
E
251
20/0
78/0
ALTERNATIVE A- NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
Under the 'no action' alternative, no soil compaction or displacement would occur as a
consequence of road construction, timber harvest, or fuel reduction activities. Existing soil
If all the additional soil restoration is done under Alternative D, it would be equivalent to Alternative E.
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
compaction and displacement would persist with very slight natural recovery of surface layers of
compacted soils. No soil restoration or watershed improvement activities would occur, so the
long-term upward trend would be slow.
If a wildfire occurred, mechanized suppression activities and subsequent salvage logging could
create severe soil impacts, depending on fire characteristics and administrative decisions. The
scope of such impacts is not foreseeable, given the uncertainties of fire ignition and burning
weather. Because the location, intensity, and size of future fire, or agency actions in response
i to fire, are uncertain, with or without implementing any action alternative, the evaluation of
alternatives by fire hazard is most appropriately addressed in the Fire section.
The continued accumulation of dead and down fuel loads could contribute to increased potential
for locally severe fire effects on soil, including physical alteration of soil structure and
development of hydrophobic layers, but compaction and displacement from a potential natural
wildfire are not likely.
ACTION ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, AND E
Alternative D would result in the greatest direct soil compaction and displacement, Alternative
E the least, and alternatives B and C intermediate.
Proposed roadside salvage of dead and at risk trees would limit skidding equipment to operating
on the road, and steep cut slopes would be protected from damage, so the potential for soil
disturbance is slight under any alternative.
Soil restoration proposed in Alternative E is greatest, Alternative B the least, and alternatives C
and D intermediate. If all the additional soil restoration is done under Alternative D, it would be
equivalent to Alternative E.
INDIRECT EFFECTS - ALL ALTERNATIVES
Indirect effects of soil compaction and displacement include effects to vegetation and hydrologic
processes. Compaction and displacement can result in reduced moisture holding capacity,
greater drought stress, and susceptibility to pathogens or fire. Certain species have a greater
competitive advantage in disturbed soils, like weeds or lodgepole pine, so that shifts in plant
community composition have been noted in field inventories of harvest units (USDA FS, 2003c).
Altered soil porosity and moisture holding capacity (USDA FS, 1999c) could contribute to higher
drought stress, lower ground cover, and shifts in disturbance regimes like erosion or fire. The
relative ranking of likely persistent indirect effects by alternative is (least effect to greatest): A,
E, B, C, and D. Although soil restoration is high in D and E, compared to A, the total area
impacted is still greater in any action alternative. All alternatives are designed to meet soil
quality standards, and monitoring prior to, during, and after implementation (Appendix I) would
assure this outcome or provide for needed restoration.
IRREVERSIBLE OR IRRETRIEVABLE EFFECTS - ALL ALTERNATIVES
Soil compaction effects can last 70 years (Froelich et a/, 1983). Effects are irretrievable for that
time period, but not irreversible. Decompaction can at least partly restore soil porosity and
productivity. Soil displacement that mixes or removes the volcanic ash surface layer reduces
soil moisture holding capacity, which may be irreversible and irretrievable. The relative ranking
of likely persistent soil compaction and displacement by alternative is (least effect to greatest ):
A, E, B, C, and D. All alternatives are designed to meet soil quality standards, and monitoring
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
prior to, during, and after implementation (Appendix I) would assure this outcome or provide for
needed restoration.
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS - ALL ALTERNATIVES
TABLE 3.7 - INDICATORS OF CUMULATIVE COMPACTION AND DISPLACEMENT: AMERICAN RIVER
ACTIVITY
Acres of ground-based timber harvest on
soils rated high for compaction or
displacement hazard, plus road
construction or mining
Acres of required/additional soil
restoration on old harvest units. Most
are spatially associated with roads to be
decommissioned
Acres of required/additional soil
restoration through system road
decommissioning, assuming road
recontour
Existing Condition Plus Proposed and Foreseeable
Actions1
A
13,439
0
0
B
13,863
5/0
20/0
C
13,955
8/0
30/0
D2
14,203
10/10
34/44
E
13,690
20/0
78/0
Existing
12,546
0
0
Mitigation and restoration can confine soil compaction and displacement to within Forest Plan
standards, and reduce the likelihood of effects to productivity, diversity, and weed susceptibility.
Additional soil restoration associated with decommissioning of old roads and treating old harvest
units would also reduce the extent of cumulative effects within the project area. Cumulative
effects are directly related to the scope of timber harvest and mechanical fuel reduction
activities, temporary road construction, and soil restoration, including road decommissioning.
The relative ranking of likely cumulative effects by alternative is (least to greatest effect): A, E,
B, C, and D. All alternatives are designed to meet soil quality standards, and monitoring prior
to, during, and after implementation (Appendix I) would assure this outcome or provide for
needed restoration. Alternative A would not do any soil restoration, but would avoid impacts on
a greater number of acres than would be restored under any alternative.
Activities that cause soil compaction and displacement may have cumulative effects on soil
porosity; water holding capacity, aeration, and long-term productivity, with repeated entries.
Where we have documentation on National Forest lands, repeated entries using ground-based
equipment have cumulatively added to soil effects. About 1,528 acres (14 percent of the tractor
logged areas) have documented multiple entries with ground-based equipment. The actual
extent is likely to be more. Of those documented, about 59 percent have been entered three
times, and a few stands up to five times. Big Elk, Upper American, Flint, Whitaker, and Queen
The primary foreseeable action includes 809 acres of tractor logging, 2.3 acres of permanent road construction and
64.4 acres of temporary road construction in the Eastside Township project, and 17 acres of tractor logging in the Elk
City school timber sale.
2
If all the additional restoration is done under Alternative D, it would be equivalent to E. Note that Alternative D
includes required and additional restoration. The first number is the required restoration, the second is the additional
restoration that will be done if funding is available.
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
Creek watersheds have been most subject to multiple ground-based logging or slash piling.
Lower American River, Lower Elk, and Little Elk Creek watersheds are likely to have sustained
undocumented multiple impacts based on the logging and mining history. No repeated entries
into harvest units affected by past harvest are proposed for this project so cumulative effects at
the unit scale are negligible.
Cumulative effects may also occur at the landscape level, where large areas of compacted and
displaced soil affect vegetation dynamics, runoff, and water yield regimes in a subwatershed.
About 4,849 acres are currently estimated to have sustained detrimental compaction or
displacement in the American River watershed due to logging, mining, or road construction.
See the description of historic activities in American River at the head of this chapter. About 50
percent of the documented ground-based logging occurred in the years 1972 through 1981,
about 14 percent from 1993 through 1996. Undocumented logging was extensive for land
clearing and construction during the earlier mining eras. Major locations and timing of harvest
included the late 1950s in Little Elk Creek and West Fork American river subwatersheds, 1961
in Middle American River and Flint Creek, middle 1960s as part of the Little Elk Creek project,
1970s in Lower American, Upper American, and Flint Creek, 1980s in Flint Creek and Kirks
Fork, 1990s as part of multiple BLM sales in the Township in Big Elk Creek and Lower American
River, 2000 and 2002 in Lower American River throughout the private lands in the Township.
Impacts tended to change by time period because different equipment, constraints, and
silvicultural prescriptions were used. Early logging in the mining era was sometimes selective
and slash disposal negligible, so that effects were variable and sometimes slight. From the mid
1950s through 1980s impacts were severe due to both, uncontrolled skidding and heavy
scarification for fuels and site preparation. Broadcast burning occurred in some areas in the
1960s and 1980s and usually resulted in reduced compaction and displacement. During the
late 1980s and 1990s some restrictions on timing of operations and skid trail spacing may have
been employed. Recent use of forwarders and fuels concerns have prompted extensive
grapple piling, both of which result in more widely spread compaction, but often less
displacement (USDA FS, 2003c).
At the subwatershed scale, proposed ground based logging in Queen Creek, Kirks Fork, Lower
American River, Box Sing Creek, East Fork American River, Middle American River, and Flint
Creek would add to the percent of each subwatershed affected by compaction and
displacement, but by modest amounts.
Mining activity has contributed to cumulative effects on soil displacement primarily through
ditching in the late 1800s, which interrupted local slope hydrology and displaced surface soils,
hydraulic mines which washed away both topsoil and subsoils, hard rock mining which
excavated pits and addits, and dredging in the 1930s, which removed valley alluvium and left
sterile mine spoils. Dredging has particularly displaced valley soils in the American, Lower
American River, Buffalo Gulch, and Little Elk Creek subwatersheds. No harvest is proposed in
areas affected by past mining.
Grazing has probably occurred along the privately owned valley meadows since the discovery
of gold in 1861 until the present. Lower forested slopes around the meadows have been
converted to pasture and also grazed for many years. This conversion is noted in Leiberg
(1898, p. 326). Livestock grazing probably compacted the moist soils of these low-lying
meadows and slopes. This has affected an estimated 1304 acres. No harvest is proposed in
these areas.
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
The alternatives will add from 61 to 195 acres of compacted or displaced soils, depending on
alternative, but will not impact areas already affected by harvest or mining, so cumulative effects
considered on an activity area basis would be negligible. Considered across the watershed,
cumulative effects of this project and the foreseeable Eastside Township project and Elk City
school harvest, which could add an estimated 356 acres of compacted or displaced soils due to
harvest and road construction, which would comprise about 1 percent of the American River
watershed.
The roadside salvage proposed for this project limits equipment operation to roads, and
provides for protection of steep cutslopes so that soil compaction and displacement should be
minimal.
SURFACE AND SUBSTRATUM EROSION
DIRECT EFFECTS
TABLE 3.8 - INDICATORS OF SURFACE AND SUBSTRATUM EROSION
Activity
Acres of timber harvest on soils rated high for surface erosion
hazard
Acres of road construction on soil substrata (parent materials)
rated high for erosion hazard
Acres of required/additional road decommissioning or soil
restoration
Alternative
A
0
0
0
B
0
4
25/0
c
0
7
38/0
D1
0
7
44/54
E
0
2
98/0
ALTERNATIVE A - NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
Under the 'no action' alternative, surface and substratum erosion processes would continue on
roads, skid trails, and landings with slight abatement as slow natural vegetation recovery
occurs. Erosion from harvest units would continue to decline to negligible. No new
management sources of surface or substratum erosion would occur, so the net trend would be
reduced management-derived erosion. However, no soil or watershed improvement activities
would occur, so the long-term upward trend would be slow.
If a wildfire were to occur, consequent surface soil erosion would range from negligible to
severe, depending on location, size and severity of burn, soil disturbance associated with
suppression, salvage logging, or burn rehabilitation activities, and interaction of watershed
response with the existing transportation system. The scope of such impacts is not foreseeable,
given the uncertainties of fire ignition and burning weather.
The continued accumulation of dead and down fuel loads could contribute to increased potential
for locally severe burning behavior, which can increase the likelihood of surface erosion, but this
may be similar to risks associated with logging and broadcast burning on areas proposed for
treatment. Sediment modeling assumptions derived from research (Cline, et al, 1981) suggest
that erosion from tractor logging on gentle to moderate slopes would be slightly less than a
severe fire on a steep slope, cumulatively over a 5-year time span, not considering the
additional substratum erosion from harvest access roads. Alternative evaluation would depend
If all the additional restoration is done under Alternative D, it would be equivalent to E.
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
on the reduction of wildfire size and severity in untreated areas. Refer to the discussion of fire
hazard in the Section 3.4. - Fire.
ACTION ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, AND E
Alternative E would result in little surface erosion and the least substratum erosion, Alternatives
C and D the most, with Alternative B intermediate, considering both harvest, road construction
and restoration effects. Alternative D would be more similar to E if all the additional restoration
work were done. Road construction is more likely to result in erosion than harvest.
On the areas proposed for possible roadside salvage of dead and at risk trees, skidding
equipment is limited to operating on the road, and steep cut slopes would be protected from
damage, so the potential exposure to soil erosion is slight.
The soil restoration would reduce surface and substratum erosion problems on some system
roads, and other sites, particularly on steep skid trails, poorly vegetated landings, and existing
temporary roads. Alternative E proposes the most restoration and treats the most acres (10) on
highly erodible substrata. Alternative D would be the same for restoration if all additional
restoration were implemented.
INDIRECT - ALL ALTERNATIVES
The relative ranking of likely indirect effects by alternative is (least to greatest effects): E, D, A,
B, and C. All alternatives would implement design criteria and mitigation measures to minimize
rill erosion and sloughing on road cut slopes, and develop burn prescriptions to minimize
erosion on harvest units.
Indirect effects of soil surface and substratum erosion include effects to vegetation and
hydrologic processes. Surface erosion removes the soil materials with the greatest ability to
hold moisture and nutrients, potentially resulting in greater drought stress, poorer growth, and
susceptibility to pathogens or fire. Since volcanic ash is not easily replaced, these effects may
be very long lasting. Certain species have a greater competitive advantage in eroded soils, like
knapweed or lodgepole pine, so that shifts in plant community composition and consequent
disturbance regimes like erosion or fire, could occur. Eroded surface and substratum material
may be delivered to streams and have consequences to water quality, stream temperature,
quality of fish habitat, and channel morphology. See the discussions in 'Sections 3.2. -
Watershed and 3.3. - Fisheries.
IRREVERSIBLE OR IRRETRIEVABLE EFFECTS - ALL ALTERNATIVES
The relative ranking of likely soil erosion by alternative is (least to greatest effects): E, D, A, B,
and C. Effects of eroded substratum material are not irretrievable or irreversible, although
effects as delivered sediment may be long lasting.
Eroded surface soil, where it is derived from volcanic ash influenced loess, is irretrievable and
irreversible. Residual soil materials would develop into topsoil over several decades to
hundreds of years, but this material may lack the moisture holding properties of volcanic ash.
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS - ALL ALTERNATIVES
TABLE 3.9 - INDICATORS OF CUMULATIVE SOIL EROSION: AMERICAN RIVER
ACTIVITY
Acres of timber harvest or burn on soils
rated high for surface erosion hazard
Acres of road or trail construction on
soil substrata rated high for erosion
hazard
Acres of required/additional road
decommissioning or soil restoration
Existing Condition Plus Proposed and Foreseeable
Actions1
A
507
291
0
B
507
295
25/0
C
507
298
38/0
D2
507
298
44/54
E
507
293
98/0
Existing
507
286
'0
Cumulative effects are directly related to the scope of timber harvest and temporary road
construction on susceptible soils, and the degree of compensation offered by road
decommissioning and soil restoration. The relative ranking of likely cumulative effects by
alternative is (least to greatest effects): E, D, A, C, and B. All alternatives would implement
design criteria and mitigation measures to minimize rill erosion and sloughing on road cut
slopes, and burn prescriptions to minimize erosion on harvest units.
Activities that result in soil surface and substratum erosion may have cumulative effects on
water holding capacity, nutrient pools and retention, and long-term productivity, with repeated
entries. Past activities considered in cumulative effects are mining, timber harvest and road
construction on soils susceptible to erosion. No repeated entries into previously harvested
areas are proposed for this project so cumulative effects at the harvest unit scale should be
negligible.
Cumulative effects may also occur at the landscape level, where large areas of soil exposed to
erosion may affect vegetation dynamics, invasive species, runoff, and sediment regimes in a
subwatershed. Erosion of surface soils on most old harvest units is expected to have declined
to zero, but substratum erosion from roads continues on about 843 acres in the project area.
The alternatives would add from 2 to 7 acres of temporary road construction on soil substrata
highly susceptible to erosion, and the foreseeable Eastside Township project about 8 acres of
road construction on highly erodible substrata. These source areas contribute to loss of soil
productivity.
Required mitigation and restoration should maintain current or slightly improved soil erosion
levels, because of the road decommissioning and soil restoration. Control of erosion is
generally easier to attain than restoration of compacted or displaced topsoil.
Existing roads have been constructed on highly erodible substrata throughout the settlement
history of the watershed. Some of the most impactive were those constructed along valley
Primary foreseeable action includes 5 acres of road construction on highly erodible substrata for the Eastside
Township Project
If all the additional restoration under Alternative D is done, it would be equivalent to E.
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
bottoms during the mining eras: in 1935 in American River and Lower American River
subwatersheds, 1895 and 1930 in Buffalo Gulch, and of undocumented age up Little Elk Creek.
These roads generally were located and constructed with little regard for erosion control.
Jammer roads built around 1967 for logging on steep slopes are concentrated in Big Elk Creek.
These are stacked above one another and may interact to concentrate erosion. Other roads
were built in the 1960s and 1970s on highly erodible substrata in the Kirks Fork, Upper
American River, Lick Creek, West Fork American, and Little Elk Creek subwatersheds. These
had low levels of design controls for erosion control. In the 1980s and early 1990s more roads
were built in East Fork American River and Flint Creek, but better road location and design
measures for erosion control were implemented during these decades. The temporary roads
proposed for this project on highly erodible substrata are located in East Fork and Kirks Fork.
Temporary roads would contribute most to cumulative erosion in those subwatersheds, per acre
of ground disturbance, but erosion would decline to negligible after decommissioning.
Past mining impacts on at least 307 acres are likely to have resulted in localized severe erosion.
This activity was concentrated in Lower and Main American River, Buffalo Gulch, and Little Elk
Creek. Proposed harvest and temporary road construction are most extensive in Main
American River, but are not on highly erodible materials, and cumulative erosion due to the
project would be constrained by design and mitigation applied to harvest units, new temporary
roads, and decommissioning of temporary and old roads.
Some thinning and pruning have occurred around administrative structures as part of defensible
space projects in the analysis area, around the Ranger Station in Lower Elk Creek. This work is
accomplished' by hand, with little soil exposure or likelihood of erosion. Streamside cattle
grazing has occurred in privately owned meadow complexes, mostly in Lower Elk Creek and
has resulted in stream bank failure and localized erosion. No activities are proposed in Lower
Elk Creek as part of this project.
None of the harvest proposed for the Elk city school timber sale is on erodible surface soils.
MASS EROSION
DIRECT EFFECTS
TABLE 3.10 - INDICATOR OF MASS EROSION: AMERICAN RIVER
Activity
Acres of road construction or timber harvest on lands
preliminarily mapped as high landslide hazard
Alternative
A
0
B
0
C
0
D
0
E
0
ALTERNATIVE A- NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
Under the 'no action' alternative, mass erosion processes would remain a slight factor in soil
processes in the analysis area. Mass erosion from natural causes would continue at small
scales and infrequent rates. Mass erosion from past management activities would continue at a
very localized scale and declining rate as old roads stabilized and harvest units revegetated.
No new management sources of mass erosion would occur from these alternatives, so the net
trend would be reduced management-derived mass erosion. However, no soil or watershed
improvement activities would occur, so the long-term upward trend would be slow.
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If a wildfire occurred, consequent mass erosion could range from negligible to modest,
depending on location, size, and severity of burn, soil disturbance associated with suppression^
salvage logging, or burn rehabilitation activities, and interaction of watershed response with the
existing transportation system. The scope of such impacts is not foreseeable, given the
uncertainties of fire ignition and burning weather.
The continued accumulation of dead and down fuel loads could contribute to increased potential
for locally severe burning behavior, which can increase the likelihood of mass erosion in steep
draws, drainage headlands, and on steep, wet lower slopes, because rooting strength would be
lost, and more moisture available. These effects are similar to clearcut logging and broadcast
burning. Alternative evaluation would depend on the reduction of wildfire size and severity in
untreated areas, and in areas where partial canopy removal and underburn reduce likely wildfire
severity. Refer to the discussion of fire hazard in Section 3.4. - Fire.
ACTION ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, AND E
Mass erosion would change little from natural rates under Alternatives B, C, D, and E. No
harvest would occur under any alternative on lands mapped as high risk for landslides. No
temporary road construction is proposed on lands mapped as high risk. Extensive field reviews
have identified most areas of risk, and these areas were dropped from consideration (Gerhardt,
M., 2003b). Design and mitigation measures address localized areas of significant landslide
risk that may be identified during project layout, and adjustment of harvest prescriptions to
maintain slope stability.
Soil restoration proposed on existing impacted sites can sometimes address existing mass
erosion problems. Activities that include restoration of stream crossings and wetlands on roads,
and recontouring roads and temporary roads can treat existing slope failure problems and
reduce risk for future failures.
No roads proposed for decommissioning under any alternative in American River are on land
mapped as high landslide hazard, but local road and slope failures would be identified and
treated as roads are decommissioned. Alternative E offers the greatest potential to stabilize
local mass erosion sites on roads to be decommissioned. Alternative D would be similar if both
required and additional decommissioning were implemented.
INDIRECT EFFECTS -ALL ALTERNA TIVES
Indirect effects are likely to be minimal, and differences among, alternatives slight, because of
the low landslide hazard in American River.
Indirect effects of mass erosion include effects to vegetation and hydrologic processes. Mass
erosion may affect surface or substratum materials. Mass erosion of surface soil removes the
materials with the greatest ability to hold moisture and nutrients, potentially resulting in greater
drought stress, poorer growth, and susceptibility to pathogens or fire. Since volcanic ash is not
easily replaced, these effects may be very long lasting. Certain species have a greater
competitive advantage in eroded soils, like weeds or lodgepole pine, so that shifts in plant
community composition and consequent disturbance regimes, like erosion or fire, could occur.
Typically mass erosion mixes surface and substratum materials so the unique properties of the
surface soil are lost. Mass-eroded surface and substratum material may be delivered to
streams and have consequences to water quality, stream temperature, quality of fish habitat,
and channel morphology. See the watershed and fisheries discussions.
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IRREVERSIBLE OR IRRETRIEVABLE EFFECTS - ALL ALTERNATIVES
There are no irreversible or irretrievable direct effects of mass erosion, except for potential loss
of volcanic ash-influenced topsoil. See the section of effects for surface erosion. Anticipated
mass erosion processes under action or 'no action' alternatives are of slight probability, size, or
effects, and are unlikely to exceed natural rates.
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS - ALL ALTERNATIVES
TABLE 3.11 - INDICATOR OF CUMULATIVE MASS EROSION: AMERICAN RIVER
ACTIVITY
Acres of road construction or harvest
on lands preliminarily mapped as high
landslide hazard
Existing Condition Pius Proposed and Foreseeable
Actions1
A
41
B
41
C
41
D
41
E
41
Existing
Condition
34
As more acres are roaded or harvested, the probability of small, localized slope failures is
modestly increased, with some slight potential for effects to sediment delivery and temporary
loss of on-site productivity. Cumulative effects are directly related to the scope of past,
proposed and foreseeable timber harvest and fuel reduction activities and temporary road
construction in susceptible terrain. Likely cumulative effects are slight due to the overall low
hazard and design controls on activities. See Table 2.3.
Proposed activities are unlikely to have significant cumulative effects, in the analysis area
because of the low incidence of significant mass wasting hazard. Mitigation and restoration
may stabilize localized small failures on existing roads by decommissioning, while proposed
temporary road construction would be in low hazard locations.
Past road construction in the watershed almost never crossed areas of high landslide hazard
(less than 0.04 miles). Small road cut failures, especially associated with areas of Tertiary
sediments, occur in this moist climatic zone. They are not documented during routine road
maintenance, but can contribute to cumulative erosional losses. Only 34 acres on high hazard
areas have been harvested in the past and no mass wasting response has occurred, even
during the flood years of 1996-1997. No road decommissioning is proposed for areas of high
landslide hazard.
The thinning and pruning that have occurred around administrative structures as part of
defensible space projects in the analysis area will not increase mass wasting risk, because
these are in areas of low risk and large, deep rooted trees that contribute to slope stability, are
retained.
Foreseeable actions include 7 acres of timber harvest on lands preliminarily mapped as highly
landslide prone as part of the Eastside Township project. The intensity of canopy removal is
about 50 percent moderate to high (shelterwood to seed tree) and 50 percent slashing and
Primary foreseeable action includes Eastside Township Project 7 acres of harvest proposed on lands mapped as
high landslide hazard. No road construction is proposed on high hazard areas.
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burning only. No road construction is proposed for that project on lands mapped as high
landslide hazard. Compliance with Forest and Regional Soil Quality Standards
COMPLIANCE WITH FOREST SOIL QUALITY STANDARDS
DIRECT EFFECTS
TABLE 3.12 - INDICATOR OF COMPLIANCE WITH SOIL QUALITY STANDARDS: AMERICAN RIVER
Activity
Number of proposed activity areas on FS lands estimated to
not meet Forest Plan soil quality standard 2
Alternative
A
0
B
0
C
0
D
0
E
0
ALTERNATIVE A
Under the 'no action' alternative (Alternative A) the existing condition for compliance with Soil
Quality Standards would continue to exceed Forest Plan Standards and Regional Guidelines,
with slight amelioration as slow natural recovery of compacted surface soil occurred and surface
soil development in disturbed areas occurred. Landings, temporary roads, and compacted or
excavated skid trails would not recover enough within the temporal bounds of this analysis to
meet standards.
No additional lands would be subject to temporary road construction or fuel. However, no soil or
watershed improvement activities would occur that might accelerate soil recovery, so the long-
term upward trend would be slower in untreated soil restoration areas, than with soil restoration.
If a wildfire occurred, consequent damage to soil conditions from suppression activities, burn
severity, or salvage logging could range from negligible to severe, depending on location, size,
and severity of burn and subsequent administrative activities.
The continued accumulation of dead and down fuel loads could contribute to increased potential
for locally severe burning behavior, but whether this might result in greater or more lasting soil
damage than road construction or ground-based logging operations is uncertain. Wildfire
seldom results in compaction or displacement, but could result in ground cover loss and erosion
that exacerbates the existing exceedances of Forest Plan standards or Regional Guidelines.
Evaluation of alternatives depends on being able to compare fire size, location, and severity in
untreated areas. The scope of such impacts is not foreseeable, given the uncertainties of fire
ignition and burning weather. See the discussion of fire hazard in Section 3.4. - Fire.
ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, and E
Under Alternatives B, C, D, and E, the areas proposed for ground-based timber harvest or
mechanical fuel reduction on soils highly susceptible to compaction or displacement, are the
areas most vulnerable to detrimental soil disturbances. The areas proposed for such harvest
have no recorded history of harvest or mechanical disturbance in the past, and no evidence of
disturbance from aerial photo inspection and reconnaissance field sampling, and are expected
to fully meet either Regional guidelines or Forest Plan standards at this time.
Project design and mitigation measures are proposed that constrain equipment type, timing of
operation, location and density of skid trails, and restoration of mechanically disturbed areas,
with the objective of ensuring that activity areas meet Forest Plan soil standard number 2, upon
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completion of proposed activities. These would apply to all alternatives. Monitoring (Appendix
I) is designed to measure compliance during and after implementation, beginning early in the
course of activities. This will allow adjustments to operations or additional restoration
requirements to ensure that activity areas meet forest soil quality standards
Additional soil restoration is proposed under Alternatives B, C, D, and E. Recovery of soil
physical properties is not expected to be complete on all treated acres, but will establish an
improving trend for soil conditions on the treated sites. Activities include decompaction,
recontouring, addition of organic matter, weed control, and revegetation to restore compacted
and displaced soils on main skid trails, existing temporary roads, landings, and newly
constructed temporary roads. The relative ranking of alternatives for soil restoration activities is
(greatest to least restoration): E, D, C, B, and A. If both required and additional restoration
activities in Alternative D were implemented, E and D would be equivalent.
INDIRECT EFFECTS - ALL ALTERNATIVES
Indirect effects of compliance with soil quality standards are more appropriately addressed
under Soil Compaction and Displacement.
IRREVERSIBLE OR IRRETRIEVABLE EFFECTS - ALL ALTERNATIVES
Irreversible and irretrievable effects of compliance with soil quality standards are more
appropriately addressed under Soil Compaction and Displacement.
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS - ALL ALTERNATIVES
Cumulative effects of compliance with soil quality standards are more appropriately addressed
under Soil Compaction and Displacement.
3.1.1.2. ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS: SOIL CHEMICAL AND BIOLOGICAL PROPERTIES
SOIL POTASSIUM AND NITROGEN Loss
DIRECT EFFECTS
TABLE 3.13 - INDICATORS OF SOIL POTASSIUM AND NITROGEN Loss: AMERICAN RIVER
Activity
Acres of whole tree yarding of more than 50 percent canopy
removal of tops and limbs on geologic materials potentially
susceptible to potassium losses.
Acres of whole tree yarding of more than 50 percent canopy
removal of tops and limbs that could contribute to nitrogen
losses.
Alternative
A
0
0
B
0
0
C
0
0
D
0
0
E
0
0
ALTERNATIVE A - NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
Under the 'no action' alternative, soil potassium and nitrogen would continue to cycle at current
rates, and not be subject to removal through harvest or prescribed fire. Accrual would continue
at low rates from rock weathering, atmospheric deposition, and nitrogen fixation. Soil nutrients
would increasingly be bound in organic mater complexes and slowly released through decay.
The net trend would be reduced management-derived nutrient loss. However, no soil or
watershed improvement activities that might accelerate biological recovery on degraded sites
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would occur, so the long-term upward trend would be slower in untreated potential soil
restoration areas.
If a wildfire occurred, consequent soil nutrient loss could range from negligible to severe,
depending on location, size, and severity of burn, loss through salvage logging, and loss of
nutrients through erosion or leaching. Fire could also make more nutrients readily available for
plant uptake and benefit post-fire plant growth. The scope of such impacts is not foreseeable,
given the uncertainties of fire ignition and burning weather.
The continued accumulation of dead and down fuel loads could contribute to increased potential
for locally severe burning behavior, which can increase the likelihood of nutrient loss to
volatilization, erosion, or leaching. Alternative evaluation would depend on the reduction of
wildfire size and severity in untreated areas, and in areas where partial canopy removal and
underburn reduce likely wildfire severity. Refer to the discussion of fire hazard in Section 3.4. -
Fire.
ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, AND E
Potential for potassium and nitrogen loss has been constrained by design and mitigation
measures under Alternatives B, C, D, and E. Bole-only yarding would be required, so the tops
and limbs would be left on site. Slash would be over wintered one season so that potassium
and other minerals would be leached from the foliage prior to burning. Mitigation specifies that
burn piles would be small and well distributed throughout the unit so that burn intensity would be
reduced and redistribution of nutrients would be minimized. Piling would have adequate
oversight and monitoring during implementation to ensure that adequate tops and limbs are left
well distributed.
The soil restoration described under soil compaction and displacement would improve potential
for nitrogen accretion and retention by accelerating soil stabilization and organic matter
development.
INDIRECT EFFECTS - ALL ALTERNATIVES
The design and mitigation measures reduce differences among action alternatives to slight.
Indirect effects of loss of soil nutrients include reduced growth and yield, increased susceptibility
to pathogens (like root infection), and shifting species composition as species with ability to
sequester nutrients (like grand fir) out compete species less able (like larch), (Garrison and
Moore 1998). The 'no action' alternative would result in less immediate nutrient loss, but wildfire
could affect any alternative by resulting in volatilization, leaching or erosion loss of nutrients, but
also by making more nutrients readily available for plant uptake.
IRREVERSIBLE OR IRRETRIEVABLE EFFECTS - ALL ALTERNATIVES
There are no irreversible or irretrievable direct effects of nutrient loss, because of the design
and mitigation measures adopted to protect tops and limbs from removal and from severe
burning in large slash piles.
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CUMULATIVE EFFECTS - ALL ALTERNATIVES
TABLE 3.14 - INDICATORS OF CUMULATIVE SOIL POTASSIUM AND NITROGEN Loss: AMERICAN RIVER
ACTIVITY
Acres of whole tree yarding with more than 50
percent canopy removal of tops and limbs on
geologic materials potentially susceptible to
potassium losses. Past activity areas were
whole tree yarded or yarded of
unmerchantable material.
Acres of whole tree yarding with more than 50
percent canopy removal of tops and limbs.
Past activity areas were clearcut with slash
disposal.
Existing Condition Pius Proposed and Foreseeable Actions1
A
467
9157
B
467
9157
C
467
9157
D
467
9157
E
467
9157
Existing
Condition
130
•8820
Mitigation and restoration are required that would constrain effects to current or slightly
degraded levels for potassium, and little long-lasting effect for nitrogen. Because of this
mitigation, there are few differences among alternatives. The 'no action' alternative would result
in less immediate nutrient loss, but wildfire could affect any alternative by resulting in
volatilization, leaching or erosion loss of nutrients, but also by making more nutrients readily
available for plant uptake.
Activities that cause soil potassium and nitrogen loss may have cumulative effects on soil
productivity, plant growth and yield, susceptibility to pathogens, and successional processes,
with repeated entries. Past effects to potassium reserves due to management are not thought
to be significant for the proposed activities, on a site-specific basis, because no entry into areas
with prior timber harvest is proposed.
Past whole tree yarding or mechanical piling and burning are poorly documented. Records
indicate the highest incidence of this activity occurred in Middle American River and East Fork
American River subwatersheds, but this still accounts for only a small percent (less than 2
percent) of any subwatershed. The piling and burning proposed under Alternative D would add
up to 4 percent of Middle American River and 3 percent of Flint Creek subwatersheds, and
lesser amounts elsewhere, but mitigation is specified to protect potassium and nitrogen
reserves.
Some thinning and pruning have occurred around administrative structures as part of defensible
space projects in the analysis area. This work is accomplished by hand. Lower branches and
small trees were generally removed, and either hand piled or burned. Localized potential for
cumulative soil nutrient loss is possible, if treatment is continuously sustained.
Foreseeable actions include an estimated 320 acres of timber harvest or mechanical fuel
reduction as part of the Eastside Township project for which yarding of unmerchantable material
The primary foreseeable action includes Eastside Township project, for which an estimated 320 acres of yarding
unmerchantable material and high canopy removal could occur, and the Elk City school sale, for which 17 acres of
high canopy removal could occur with whole tree yarding or piling and burning.
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is being considered, and canopy removal is estimated to be high, and 17 acres in the Elk Citv
school sale. 3
Loss OF SOIL WOOD
DIRECT EFFECTS
TABLE 3.15 - INDICATOR OF Loss OF SOIL WOOD: AMERICAN RIVER
Activity
disposal with potential for high soil wood loss
Alternative
A
0
B
291
c
356
356
75
ALTERNATIVE A - No ACTION ALTERNATIVE
Under the 'no action' alternative, soil wood would continue to accumulate and slowly decay
through physical and biological mechanisms. The net trend would be reduced management-
derived loss of soil wood. However, no soil or watershed improvement activities would occur
that might accelerate biological recovery in degraded areas, so the long-term upward trend
would be slower. If a wildfire occurred, consequent loss of soil wood could range from
negligible to severe, depending on location, size, and severity of burn, and removal of dead
standing trees associated with salvage logging. Fire could also create standing dead trees that
provide recruitment for soil wood over the long term. The scope of such impacts is not
foreseeable, given the uncertainties of fire ignition, burning weather, and potential post-fire
salvage logging.
The continued accumulation of dead and down fuel loads could contribute to increased potential
for wood over extensive areas. Large historic fires burned at 26-69 percent lethality it is
unlikely that any future fire would be outside this wide range, with or without treatment because
of the existing amount of harvest and roads. Loss of soil wood due to fire is expected to be less
than loss due to removal. In general, wildfire effects could often be preferable in large wood
cycling and recruitment.
ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, and E
Potential for loss of large woody debris is greatest under Alternatives C and D, least for
Alternative E, and intermediate for B, but mitigation for down wood, snags, and green trees
should provide for some wood retention and recruitment in all alternatives.
The likelihood of soil wood loss is less on the acres proposed for precommercial thinning,
shelterwood or group selection harvest. All of these acres would have more than 50 percent
crown removal, but most of that is in smaller diameter classes which would not provide as
valuable a soil wood resource as the larger trees left. The monitoring plan (Appendix I) requires
adequate oversight and monitoring during implementation to ensure that soil wood, snags, and
green trees are left as prescribed.
On the areas proposed for roadside salvage of dead and dying trees, large snags would be left,
and the intensity and extent of tree removal would be low.
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The soil restoration described under soil compaction and displacement would improve long-term
potential for soil wood accrual by accelerating soil stabilization and organic matter development.
INDIRECT EFFECTS - ALL ALTERNATIVES
The relative ranking of likely indirect effects by alternative is (least to greatest effects): A, E, B,
C/D. All alternatives would meet current recommendations for soil wood retention.
Indirect effects of soil wood loss include altered processes of forest regeneration and growth,
favoring species requiring lower soil moisture, lower nutrient levels and greater tolerance for
potential soil erosion. Indirect effects could also include loss of habitat for species requiring soil
wood as dens or substrate for invertebrates, bacteria and fungi, which affect food availability for
small rodents and their predators.
IRREVERSIBLE OR IRRETRIEVABLE EFFECTS - ALL ALTERNATIVES
There are no irreversible effects due to loss of soil wood, although long-term productivity could
be compromised through the age of the next forest stand, until soil wood reserves begin to be
replenished.
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS - ALL ALTERNATIVES
TABLE 3.16 - INDICATORS OF CUMULATIVE SOIL WOOD Loss: AMERICAN RIVER
ACTIVITY
Acres of clearcut timber harvest and
slash disposal with potential for high
soil wood loss
Existing Condition Pius Proposed and Foreseeable
Actions1
A
9767
B
10058
C
10123
D
10123
E
9842
Existing
Condition
8820
The spatial extent of soil wood loss is increased, with increased scope of clearcut harvest, with
potential for effects to long-term productivity over larger areas. Mitigation and restoration are
planned to constrain effects to current or improved levels, and develop a long-term upward
trend on some previously degraded sites. The prescriptions for large woody debris retention,
green tree and snag retention, and controls on size and intensity of burn piles should result in
minor cumulative effects from the proposed actions. The relative ranking of potential cumulative
effects by alternative is (least to greatest effect): A, E, B, C, and D. All alternatives would meet
current recommendations for soil wood retention. Wildfire might consume substantial quantities
of existing soil wood under any alternative, but would recruit standing dead trees, in the
absence of extensive salvage logging.
Activities that cause repeated loss of soil wood may have cumulative effects on soil porosity,
water holding capacity, aeration, biological activity, and long-term productivity, in the case of
frequent repeated entries. This is not likely to be a concern for the proposed activities because
no areas of prior harvest are targeted for a second entry.
The primary foreseeable action includes Eastside Township project, for which an estimated 930 acres of timber
harvest with high canopy removal could occur, and the Elk City school sale, for which 17 acres of high canopy
removal could occur.
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Activities that result in large areas of depleted soil wood may have cumulative effects at the
landscape scale, such as altered productivity that change landscape scale vegetation
processes. Past activities considered in cumulative effects are regeneration timber harvest and
slash disposal. The 8,820 acres of past clearcut harvest with dozer piling or broadcast burning
have been widespread throughout most subwatersheds, and through most time periods. All
harvest is too recent to have recovered large wood on the ground As a percent of
subwatershed, Big Elk Creek, Buffalo Gulch, Flint Creek, Little Elk Creek, Queen Creek, Box
Sing Creek, and Lower American River, have been most affected.
Some thinning and pruning have occurred around administrative structures as part of defensible
space projects in the analysis area. This work is accomplished by hand. Soil wood was not
generally removed, but some snags were removed. Localized potential for cumulative soil wood
loss is possible if treatment is continuously sustained.
Repeated harvest and slash disposal in the private lands within the Township have probably
affected soil wood regimes.
Foreseeable actions include a proposed 930 acres of harvest in the Eastside Township project
and 17 acres in the Elk City school sale that are likely to have a high percentage of crown
removal and may be susceptible to soil wood loss.
3.1.2. CROOKED RIVER
EXISTING CONDITION - CROOKED RIVER
INTRODUCTION
The South Fork Clearwater River Landscape Assessment (USDA FS, 1998a) identified "Restore
aquatic processes" as the area theme for the lower part of Crooked River watershed, and
"Conserve existing aquatic function", as the area theme for Upper Crooked River. The priority
for both is very high. Restoration is to include both restoration of aquatic conditions and
processes in the watershed, the mainstem channel, and adjustments to the road and trail
system to support aquatic restoration and provide for administrative and public uses. The
Landscape Assessment is not a decision document, but does provide important synthesis of
existing condition and resource potential in the watershed.
Soil resource management affects aquatic processes primarily through erosion, mass wasting,
and soil compaction or disturbance that affects subsurface slope hydrology.
GEOLOGY, SOIL DEVELOPMENT, AND LANDFORMS
Rocks weather to form soil parent material; and soil texture, chemistry, and resistance to
erosion are highly conditioned by geology.
Geology in the Crooked River watershed is about evenly divided between Belt-age metamorphic
rocks (54 percent) and granitics (46 percent). The metamorphics include gneiss, schist, and
quartzite that weather to sandy loam, loamy sand, or sand parent materials and develop into soil
parent materials that are rated moderate to high for substratum erosion hazard (USDA FS,
1987b). They typically weather into soil parent materials that are rated moderate to high for
substratum erosion hazard (USDA FS, 1987b). These materials typically have low levels of
inherent nutrients, and moderate to poor ability to retain nutrients (Garrison and Moore, 1998).
Potassium deficiencies noted in these rock types can affect tree growth and susceptibility to root
disease.
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Granitics are higher in certain nutrients, including potassium, but weather to sandy soils with low
ability to retain nutrients. They typically weather into soil parent materials that are rated high to
very high for substratum erosion hazard (USDA FS, 1987b).
Most soils in the project area (86 percent) have surface layers formed in volcanic ash-influenced
loess derived from the eruption of Mt. Mazama about 6700 years ago. This material is
physically highly favorable to root growth, being very permeable and with a high ability to hold
moisture and nutrients. This material is very easy to compact or displace at any moisture
content (Page-Dumroese, 1993), and is essentially irreplaceable without volcanic additions.
Soil response to disturbance depends not only on soil type, but topographic setting and slope
hydrology. Landforms have characteristic slope shape, steepness, and stream dissection,
which affect erosion and sediment delivery to streams.
• Rolling hills of low to moderate relief occur at lower and mid elevations (14 percent of the
watershed). The volcanic ash influenced soil surface layers buffer against erosion
except where soil substrata are exposed, as in roads or mines. Substratum erosion
hazard is moderate to high. Slopes are gentle to moderate and sediment is delivered to
streams with moderate efficiency. Unstable slopes are uncommon, and typically occur
as small areas on lower slopes or near stream headlands. West and south facing slopes
at low elevation may have thin or mixed ash surface layers. These soils do not hold
moisture as well as ash-influenced soils and are more susceptible to surface erosion.
• Stream breaklands and steep mountain slopes are common in the watershed (37
percent). In comparison to rolling hills, breaklands have steep slopes, shallower soils,
thin or mixed loess surface layers, higher surface erosion risk, higher risk of mass
failure, and more rapid delivery of sediment to streams. Debris torrents can occur in
headwater channels after intense rainstorms or rain-on-snow events.
• Convex slopes are found at upper elevations (42 percent of the area). In comparison to
rolling hills, convex slopes have broader ridges, lower drainage density, and bedrock is
usually deeply fractured. Volcanic ash surface layers are typically present and buffer
against surface erosion. Substratum erosion hazard is high. Slopes are gentle to
moderate and sediment is delivered to streams with low efficiency. Unstable slopes are
uncommon, and typically occur as small areas on lower slopes or near stream
headlands.
• Alluvial valleys form along low gradient stream channels (2 percent of the watershed).
Soils are often poorly drained and subject to water transport most of the year. Substrata
are coarse sands with gravel and cobble. Some have been dredge mined and only
coarse mine spoils remain. Sediment delivery efficiency is very high (USDA FS, 1987b);
most of this landform is a riparian area.
• . Alpine glaciated slopes and till deposits occur at the highest elevations (3 percent of the
watershed). These landforms have exposed bedrock or glacial till, and moderate to
steep slopes. Substratum erosion hazard is high. Sediment is delivered to streams with
moderate to high efficiency. Debris torrents can occur in headwater channels after
intense rainstorms or rapid snowmelt.
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EXISTING CONDITION- CROOKED RIVER: SOIL PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
EXISTING CONDITION: SOIL COMPACTION AND DISPLACEMENT
Road building, mining, tractor logging and machine piling have impacted soils in the Crooked
River watershed, mostly in lower Crooked River.
Mining effects have been localized but severe: soils in dredge and placer-mined areas have
been removed, and sterile tailing piles remain. Soil recovery has been very slow and some of
these areas still act as sediment sources. A minimum of 331 acres of this condition occurs in
the watershed.
About 3,600 acres (8 percent of the watershed) have been tractor logged and/or machine piled
resulting in soil compaction and displacement over some of that area. Where the volcanic ash
surface layer is compacted, displaced or mixed, soil moisture holding capacity is significantly
impaired (USDA FS, 1999c). Early logging practices allowed landings in riparian areas and log
skidding was common in draws and down stream bottoms. Some of the units were very large,
up to 500 acres in the headwaters of Relief Creek. Tractor logging and dozer piling occurred on
sedge meadows resulting in long-term compaction and alteration of stream channels and water
tables.
Past harvest units that were tractor logged and dozer piled average 52 percent of the activity
area damaged in the adjacent Red River watershed (USDA FS, 2003a), which has similar
landforms and soils. Units that were tractor logged and broadcast burned in that watershed
averaged 38 percent damaged (USDA FS, 2003a). Units that were tractor logged, but not dozer
piled or scarified, sustained 12-42 percent damage. Other monitoring data indicate 15-25
percent damage for tractor logging without machine piling (USDA FS, 1990 and 1991).
Excavator piling has been documented on 92 acres In Crooked River. This is usually less
impactive than dozer piling, but can still sometimes result in more than 20 percent detrimental
disturbance.
About 981 acres of cable yarding have occurred in Crooked River. Soil damage is usually
confined to yarding corridors and landings and accounts for about 4 percent of the activity area,
based on monitoring in other areas (USDA FS, 2003b).
Road construction also displaces soil, with long-term to permanent impairment of soil
productivity. About 567 acres of documented system roads occur where topsoil and subsoil
have been displaced, mixed, or lost to erosion. This represents about 1.2 percent of the
analysis area.
Motorized and non-motorized trails account for an estimated 28 acres of soil disturbance. Soils
are both compacted and displaced. Numerous undocumented user-created ATV trails exist,
which add to the amount of detrimental disturbance in the project area.
The larger forest-meadow complexes that once existed along main Crooked River have been
grazed since the mining era. This use is noted in Leiberg, 1898, page 326. About 483 acres
are likely to have been most compacted. These effects have been erased by dredging activity,
so the soils are now mostly gone. Grazing after the fires of 1878, 1889, and perhaps 1945
probably occurred in the burned areas. There has been no active grazing allotment in the
watershed for the last 20 years.
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EXISTING CONDITION: SURFACE AND SUBSTRATUM EROSION
Road building is the primary current source of erosion and sediment production in the project
area. Seventy six percent of the watershed is rated high or very high for substratum erosion
hazard (USDA FS, 1987b). About 413 acres of past road construction (about 103 miles) are on
soil substrata that are rated high or very high for erosion hazard. Road erosion and sediment
yield usually decline over time, but continue at a chronic level indefinitely (Cline, et al, 1981).
Periodic large pulses of erosion may occur during intense or prolonged rainstorms or rain-on-
snow events, or after burning or harvest that increases water yield and overland flow in
interaction with road drainage systems (Wemple, 1994).
Past mining has caused locally severe erosion of both surface soil and substrata, often
concentrated in valleys where eroded material can reach streams: mainstem Crooked River,
Relief Creek, Baker Gulch, and East and West Forks of Crooked River (USDA FS, 1998a). A
minimum of 331 acres has been affected by dredge mining. Other upland mine sediment
sources also exist, where excavation and dozer operations have exposed erodible substrata.
Past fires have resulted in locally severe surface erosion, but post-fire erosion often declines to
negligible with vegetation recovery in about 4 years (Megahan, cited in Cline, et al, 1981; and
Elliot, Robichaud, and Brown, 1999 as shown in Elliot and Robichaud, 2001). The most recent
large fire occurred in 1945 in the watershed. This fire burned about 5115 acres or 11 percent of
the watershed. The largest documented fire in American River occurred in 1889 and burned
about 5970 acres, or 13 percent of the watershed. Another large fire burned in 1878. Human
ignitions may'have been a factor in these fires, but 1889 was a severe fire year throughout the
region (Barrett et al., 1997). It is likely that actual burned acres for these early fires were
greater, because areas of low and moderate severity fire were often not mapped.
Surface erosion from timber harvest has been slight. The volcanic ash-influenced surface soil is
rated as low surface erosion hazard (USDA FS, 1987b) and occurs over more than 85 percent
of the project area. Excavated skid trails and temporary roads are prone to erosion because the
surface soil is removed. About 309 acres have been harvested in the past on soils with high
surface erosion potential. These are on steep slopes, usually on south aspects, or in riparian
areas where soil is readily detached and transported by water. Harvest has occurred on 832
acres on soils with moderate surface erosion hazard. They are usually on steep slopes on north
aspects. Surface erosion on harvest units typically declines to negligible over time, except for
some landings, excavated skid trails, and temporary roads that remain on the landscape (Cline,
etal, 1981).
Documented motorized and non-motorized trails account for 28 acres of soil disturbance,
susceptible to surface and subsurface erosion. Twenty acres are on soil substrata rated high
for erosion hazard. Numerous undocumented user-created ATV trails exist in addition to the
system trails, and add disproportionately to the amount of erosion in the project area, because
they may go straight up slopes or cross creeks, and have no erosion controls. They are often
gullied or rutted.
EXISTING CONDITION: MASS EROSION
Landslide hazard is low in most (76 percent) of the analysis area. Debris avalanche, debris
torrent, and shallow slumps are the most likely kinds of mass failures in the area, but field
reconnaissance indicates past mass wasting has been generally restricted to localized events
with small to moderate impacts.
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About 3,441 acres (about 7.5 percent of the analysis area) are mapped as high hazard for
landslides. These are steep slopes, especially in concave headwalls, steep, highly dissected
drainage areas, and features that show evidence of past mass wasting.
Road construction in such settings may precipitate road cut or fill failures, and occasionally loss
of the road prism, or, by undercutting a toe slope, activate a landslide upslope. Thirty-four acres
(8.5 miles) of road construction and 181 acres of timber harvest have occurred on land rated
high for landslide risk. No documented landslide response has occurred on these areas.
During the flood episode of 1996-1997, no mass erosion was reported in the analysis area.
Field reconnaissance for this project found little evidence of mass wasting from roads (Gerhardt
M., 2003b, Gerhardt, N., 2003).
EXISTING CONDITION: COMPLIANCE WITH FOREST AND REGIONAL SOIL QUALITY STANDARDS
An estimated 69 percent (166) of past activity areas on FS lands in Crooked River today show
detrimental soil disturbance in excess of 20 percent. In many instances these impacts occurred
prior to forest plan implementation, but monitoring of more recent activities shows inconsistent
improvement in practices. This degree of soil damage is consistent both with other Forest
monitoring (USDA FS 1988a, 1990, 1992), and research (Krag, 1991; Froelich 1978' Davis
1990, Alexander and Poff, 1985).
Soil quality standards, apply to activity areas other than the dedicated transportation system and
administrative sites. Activity areas include temporary roads, harvest units, mine sites, grazed
areas, and burned areas. This discussion focuses on Forest Soil Standard number 2: areal
extent of detrimental soil disturbance. Refer to the Legal Framework in the Soil Resource
section. Compliance is only considered here for Forest Service lands, since the same
standards do not apply to BLM or private lands. Standards were not in place prior to 1987, but
using the standards as a reference helps understand existing conditions in the analysis area.
About 4876 acres (204 activity areas) have been tractor-logged or mined on FS lands, or 11
percent of the FS lands in the watershed. About 88 percent of logging has been ground-based
Most of this logging occurred from 1960-1989. Most of Crooked River is considered similar in
soils and logging history to Red River, where 80 percent of sampled tractor logged activity areas
did not meet Forest Plan standards.
Cable logging typically produces relatively little soil damage (research cited in Alexander and
Poff, 1985). This is consistent with findings of the Red River watershed assessment, in which
two cable-logged units had each sustained 4 percent damage. About 635 acres, about 0.7
percent of the FS lands in the Crooked River watershed, have been cable-logged. These
amount to 35 activity areas, all of which are expected to meet soil quality standards.
EXISTING CONDITION- CROOKED RIVER: SOIL CHEMICAL AND BIOLOGICAL PROPERTIES
EXISTING CONDITION: SOIL POTASSIUM AND NITROGEN
Cleareut harvest, yarding of tops and limbs, and piling and burning slash have locally affected
nitrogen and potassium reserves in about 11 percent of the watershed.
The inherent rock nutrient status of the local metamorphic gneisses, schists, and quartzites is
rated as medium to poor (Garrison and Moore, 1998), but no sampling specific to the analysis
area has been done. Their expected soil nutrient status is also medium to low (Buol et a/,
1989). These rock types account for about 54 percent of the analysis area. Only 126 acres of
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
YUM yarding (yarding unmerchantable material) or yarding of slash has been documented in
the analysis area, on this geologic material. Much of this yarding may have been bole only, but
tops and limbs may also have been removed. Removal of tops and limbs is likely to result in
about twice as much potassium loss as bole-only yarding, so a few localized areas may have
sustained potassium loss. Burning at temperatures of 750° C or more will volatilize potassium
(Hungerford et a/, 1991). These temperatures can be attained in burning slash piles (Glassy
and Svalberg, 1981), which has been a common practice in the watershed (1,339 acres).
Granites are rated as having good inherent nutrient status, but medium to low soil nutrient
status because of their poor capacity for nutrient retention. Granites account for about 46
percent of the analysis area.
Volcanic ash surface soils have high nutrient holding capacity and good moisture storage
capacity, but may not have high levels of available soil nutrients, including potassium (Stark and
Spitzner, 1982).
Of the tree species likely to be removed, grand fir accumulates the highest foliar levels of
potassium, so harvesting tops of this species is more likely to deplete soil potassium than
harvesting lodgepole pine tops, which have the lowest levels of foliar potassium (Moore et a/.,
2004).
Soil nitrogen is typically limiting in all rock and soil types and whole tree yarding has similar or
greater effects on soil nitrogen reservoirs (Shaw, 2003). Soil nitrogen can be replenished more
rapidly through nitrogen fixation or atmospheric deposition than can potassium, which must
weather from rocks.
About 4,914 acres, or about 11 percent of the Crooked River watershed, have been clearcut
harvested with dozer piling ,or broadcast burning. Nitrogen losses have probably been
substantial on these sites. Because slash disposal burns logs on the ground rather than
standing trees, soil temperatures can be hotter and nitrogen loss by volatilization may therefore
be greater than with a wildfire.
EXISTING CONDITION: SOIL WOOD
About 11 percent of the Crooked River watershed has been affected by clearcut harvesting and
slash disposal resulting in likely loss of existing and recruitable soil wood.
Coarse woody debris (CWD) is woody material derived from tree limbs, boles, and roots in
various stages of decay, here defined as that larger than 3 inches in diameter (Graham et al,
1994). Coarse woody debris protects the soil from erosion, contributes to wildlife and fisheries
habitat, and moderates soil microclimate. Highly decayed CWD can hold more water than
mineral soil, provides sites for nitrogen fixation, and releases nutrients through decay or
burning. Highly decayed wood provides sites for ectomycorrhizal colonization, which
contributes to plant growth and plays a role in the food chains of many small rodents and their
predators.
Coarse woody debris in natural systems fluctuates with forest growth, mortality, fire, and decay.
Harvest and slash burning can remove large wood to a degree that its soil function is impaired,
since both standing boles and down wood may be much reduced.
About 4,914 acres, or about 11 percent of the Crooked River watershed, have been clearcut
harvested with dozer piling or broadcast burning. Most of this harvest was prior to 1990, when
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
the first large woody debris prescriptions might have been implemented. Field reconnaissance
in the adjacent Red River watershed indicates large woody debris is deficient on such sites in
comparison to most natural disturbance regimes. In addition, very few green trees or snags
were left on regeneration harvest units, so that very few trees are available for recruitment over
the next 50-100 years.
Areas of old forest in moist habitats and areas of past mortality of lodgepole pine in the beetle
outbreak of the 1980s may have heavy loads of CWD. They are not unnaturally high but are
susceptible to consumption by wildfire. Wildfire would consume some material and create dead
standing timber, which would be recruited as large woody debris over time.
3.1.2.1. ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS: SOIL PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
SOIL COMPACTION AND DISPLACEMENT
DIRECT EFFECTS
TABLE 3.17 - INDICATORS OF SOIL COMPACTION AND DISPLACEMENT: CROOKED RIVER
Activity
Acres of ground-based timber harvest on soils rated high
for compaction or displacement hazard plus acres of new
temporary road construction
Acres of required/additional soil restoration on old harvest
units. Most are spatially associated with roads to be
decommissioned.
Acres of required/additional soil restoration through
system road decommissioning
Alternative
A
0
0
0
B
745
13/0
36/0
C
729
18/0
39/0
D1
989
23/14
39/30
618
37/0
69/0
ALTERNATIVE A- No ACTION ALTERNATIVE
Under the 'no action' alternative, no soil compaction or displacement would occur as a
consequence of road construction, timber harvest, or fuel reduction activities. Existing soil
compaction and displacement would persist with very slight natural recovery of surface layers of
compacted soils. No soil restoration or watershed improvement activities would occur, so the
long-term upward trend would be slow.
If a wildfire occurred, mechanized suppression activities and subsequent salvage logging could
create severe soil impacts, depending on fire characteristics and administrative decisions. The
scope of such impacts is not foreseeable, given the uncertainties of fire ignition and burning
weather. Because the location, intensity and size of future fire, or agency actions in response to
fire, are uncertain, with or without implementing any action alternative, the evaluation of
alternatives by fire hazard is most appropriately addressed in Section 3.4. - Fire.
The continued accumulation of dead and down fuel loads could contribute to increased potential
for locally severe fire effects on soil, including physical alteration of soil structure and
If all the additional restoration is done for Alternative D, it would be equivalent to E.
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development of hydrophobic layers, but compaction and displacement from a potential natural
wildfire are not likely.
ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, AND E
Alternative D would result in the greatest soil compaction and displacement, Alternative E the
least, and B and C intermediate.
Proposed roadside salvage of dead and dying trees limits skidding equipment to operating on
the road, and steep cut slopes would be protected from damage, so the potential for soil
disturbance is slight.
Soil restoration proposed in Alternative E is greatest, Alternative B the least, and Alternatives C
and D intermediate. If all the additional soil restoration is done under Alternative D, it would be
equivalent to Alternative E. Alternative E would stabilize the most soils with high substratum
erosion hazard. Alternative D would be equivalent if the additional restoration were done.
INDIRECT EFFECTS - ALL ALTERNATIVES
The relative ranking of likely persistent indirect effects by alternative is (least effect to greatest):
A, E, B, C, and D. Although soil restoration is high in D and E, compared to A, the total area
impacted is still greater in any action alternative. All alternatives are designed to meet soil
quality standards, and monitoring prior to, during, and after implementation (Appendix I) would
assure this outcome or provide for needed restoration.
Indirect effects of soil compaction and displacement include effects to vegetation and hydrologic
processes. Compaction and displacement can result in reduced moisture holding capacity,
greater drought stress, and susceptibility to pathogens or fire. Certain species have a greater
competitive advantage in disturbed soils, like weeds or lodgepole pine, so that shifts in plant
community composition have been noted in field inventories of harvest units (USDA FS, 2003c).
Altered soil porosity and moisture holding capacity (USDA FS, 1999c) could contribute to higher
drought stress, lower ground cover, and shifts in disturbance regimes like erosion or fire.
IRREVERSIBLE OR IRRETRIEVABLE EFFECTS - ALL ALTERNATIVES
The relative ranking of likely persistent soil compaction and displacement by alternative is (least
effect to greatest ): A, E, B, C, and D. All alternatives are designed to meet'soil quality
standards, and monitoring prior to, during, and after implementation (Appendix I) would assure
this outcome or provide for needed restoration.
Soil compaction effects can last 70 years (Froelich et al, 1983). Effects are irretrievable for that
time period, but not irreversible. Decompaction can at least partly restore soil porosity and
productivity. Soil displacement that mixes or removes the volcanic ash surface layer reduces
soil moisture holding capacity, which may be irreversible and irretrievable.
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CUMULATIVE EFFECTS - ALL ALTERNATIVES
TABLE 3.18-INDICATORS OF CUMULATIVE SOIL COMPACTION AND DISPLACEMENT: CROOKED RIVER
Activity
Acres of ground-based timber harvest
on soils highly subject to compaction
or displacement, road or trail
construction, or mining
Acres of required/additional soil
restoration on old harvest units
associated with roads to be
decommissioned
Acres of required/additional soil
restoration through system road
decommissioning, assuming road
recontour
Existing Condition Plus Proposed and Foreseeable Actions1
A
4675
0
0
B
5420
13/0
36/0
C
5404
18/0
39/0
D2
5677
23/14
39/30
E
5293
37/0
69/0
4526
0
0
Mitigation and restoration can confine soil compaction and displacement to within Forest Plan
standards, and reduce the likelihood of effects to productivity, diversity, and weed susceptibility.
Additional soil restoration associated with decommissioning of old roads and treating old harvest
units would also reduce the extent of cumulative effects within the project area. Cumulative
effects are directly related to the scope of timber harvest and mechanical fuel reduction
activities, temporary road construction, and soil restoration, including road decommissioning
The relative ranking of likely cumulative effects by alternative is (least to greatest effect): A, E,
B, C, and D. All alternatives are designed to meet soil quality standards, and monitoring prior
to, during, and after implementation (Appendix I) would assure this outcome or provide for
needed restoration. Alternative A would not do any soil restoration, but would avoid impacts on
a greater number of acres than would be restored under any alternative.
Activities that cause soil compaction and displacement may have cumulative effects on soil
porosity, water holding capacity, aeration, and long-term productivity, with repeated entries.
Repeated entries using ground-based equipment have cumulatively added to soil compaction
and displacement effects. About 2,376 acres have documented multiple entries with ground-
based equipment. Of these about 1,162 acres (49 percent) have been entered three times.
Most of these are in Lower Crooked River, Silver Creek, and Relief Creek, and were part of the
projects listed above, and 733 acres (30 percent) have been entered only once. No repeated
entries are proposed for this project so cumulative effects at the harvest unit scale should be
negligible.
Cumulative effects may also occur at the landscape level, where large areas of compacted and
displaced soil affect vegetation dynamics, runoff, and water yield regimes. About 4,526 acres
are currently estimated to have sustained detrimental compaction or displacement in the
The primary foreseeable action includes the Whiskey South project: 6 acres of road construction and 143 acres of
tractor logging.
If all the additional restoration is done for Alternative D, it would be equivalent to E.
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Crooked River watershed due to logging, mining, and road or trail construction. See the
discussion of historic activities in Crooked River at the beginning of this chapter.
About 32 percent of the documented ground-based site treatments occurred in the years 1974
through 1976 (Silver Quartz and unnamed projects), and about 56 percent from 1984 through
1992 (Silver Quartz, Quartz Relief, Dead French, Shooting Star, Lower Crooked River, and
unnamed projects). During the 1950s through mid 1980s few restrictions on skidding
equipment, locations, or season, occurred. Intensive machine piling of slash was common, with
widespread compaction and displacement, and intense burning effects in the piles. Broadcast
burning, which results in lower compaction and displacement, was common in the 1980s in
Lower and Middle Crooked River, but then declined. During the late 1980s and 1990s some
restrictions for timing of operations and skid trail spacing may have been employed.
Mining activity has contributed to cumulative effects on soil displacement primarily through
extensive ditching in the late 1800s, which interrupted local slope hydrology and displaced
surface soils, hydraulic mines which washed away both topsoil and subsoils, hard rock mining
which excavated pits and addits, and dredging in the 1930s, which removed valley alluvium and
left sterile mine spoils. Dredging has particularly displaced valley soils along the mainstem of
Lower, Middle, and Upper Crooked River, and near the mouth of Relief Creek.
Some thinning, pruning and hazard tree removal have occurred around administrative sites and
along road 233 over 24 acres as part of defensible space and hazard tree reduction projects in
the analysis area. This work was accomplished by hand with limited machine skidding so
ground disturbance was slight.
The alternatives will add from 161 to 263 acres of compacted or displaced soils, depending on
alternative; and the foreseeable Whiskey South project could add an estimated 61 acres due to
harvest and road construction, for a total of less than 1 percent of the watershed.
SURFACE AND SUBSTRATUM EROSION
DIRECT EFFECTS
TABLE 3.19 - INDICATORS OF SOIL EROSION: CROOKED RIVER .
Activity
Acres of timber harvest on soils rated high for surface
erosion hazard
Acres of road construction on soil substrata (parent
materials) rated high for erosion hazard
Acres of required/additional soil restoration or road
decommissioning
Alternative
A
0
0
0/0
B
19
16
49/0
C
20
20
57/0
D1
20
20
62/44
E
19
12
106/0
If all the additional restoration is done for Alternative D, it would be equivalent to E.
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ALTERNATIVE A - NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
TABLE 3.20 - INDICATORS OF SOIL EROSION: ALTERNATIVE A
Activity
Acres of timber harvest on soils rated high for surface
erosion hazard
Acres of road construction on soil substrata (parent
materials) rated high for erosion hazard
Acres of required/additional soil restoration or road
decommissioning
Alternative
A
0
0
0/0
B
19
16
49/0
c
20
20
57/0
D1
20
20
62/44
E
19
12
106/0
ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, and E
Alternatives C and D would propose the most activities on highly erodible surface soil or
substrata, Alternative E the least and Alternative B is intermediate. The acres of road
construction are more likely to result in erosion than the harvest acres.
For the proposed roadside salvage, skidding equipment is limited to operating on the road, and
steep cut slopes would be protected from damage, so the potential for erosion is slight.
The soil restoration described under soil compaction and displacement would reduce surface
and substratum erosion problems on some existing sites, particularly on steep skid trails, poorly
vegetated landings, and existing temporary roads. Alternative E would stabilize eroding sites on
the most acres, Alternative B the least and C and D would be intermediate. If the additional
restoration work is done for D, it would be equal to E in restoration. Alternative E would treat
the most acres of highly erodible substrata.
INDIRECT EFFECTS
The relative ranking of likely indirect effects by alternative is (least to greatest effect): E, D, A, B
and C. The compensation provided by restoration activities is estimated to be more significant
for erosion than for compaction and displacement.
Indirect effects of soil surface and substratum erosion include effects to vegetation and
hydrologic processes. Surface erosion removes the soil materials with the greatest ability to
hold moisture and nutrients, potentially resulting in greater drought stress, poorer growth, and
susceptibility to pathogens or fire. Since volcanic ash is not easily replaced, these effects may
be very long lasting. Certain species have a greater competitive advantage in eroded soils, like
weeds or lodgepole pine, so that shifts in plant community composition and consequent
disturbance regimes like erosion or fire, could occur. Eroded surface and substratum material
may be delivered to streams and have consequences to water quality, stream temperature,
quality of fish habitat, and channel morphology. See Sections 3.2. - Watershed and 3.3. -
Fisheries.
If all the additional restoration is done for Alternative D, it would be equivalent to E.
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IRREVERSIBLE OR IRRETRIEVABLE EFFECTS - ALL ALTERNATIVES
The relative ranking of likely surface soil erosion by alternative is (least to greatest effect): E, D,
A, B, and C. The compensation provided by restoration activities is estimated to be more
significant for erosion than for compaction and displacement.
Effects of eroded substratum material are not irretrievable or irreversible; although effects as
delivered sediment may be long lasting.
Eroded surface soil, where it is derived from volcanic ash influenced loess, is irretrievable.
Residual soil materials would develop into topsoil over several decades to hundreds of years,
but this material may lack the moisture holding properties of volcanic ash.
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS
TABLE 3.21 - INDICATORS OF CUMULATIVE SOIL EROSION: CROOKED RIVER
Activity
Acres of timber harvest or burn on
soils rated high for surface erosion
hazard2
Acres of road or trail construction on
soil substrata rated high for erosion
hazard
Acres of required/additional soil
restoration or road decommissioning
Existing Condition Plus Proposed and Foreseeable
Actions1
A
309
433
0/0
B
328
449
49/0
C
329
453
57/0
D
329
453
62/44
E
328
445
106/0
EXISTING
CONDITION
309
433
0
Cumulative effects are directly related to the scope of timber harvest and mechanical fuel
reduction activities, temporary road construction, and soil restoration, including road
decommissioning. The relative ranking of potential cumulative effects by alternative is (least to
greatest impacts): E, D, A, B, and C. Erosion would be constrained under all alternatives by
road design and construction controls and harvest design and mitigation as specified in Table
2.3.
Past activities considered in cumulative effects are mining, timber harvest and road construction
on soils susceptible to erosion. Activities that result in soil surface and substratum erosion may
have cumulative effects on water holding capacity, nutrient pools and retention, and long-term
productivity, with repeated entries. Cumulative effects may also occur at the landscape level,
where large areas of soil exposed to erosion affect vegetation dynamics, invasive species,
runoff, and sediment regimes. Erosion of surface soils on old harvest units is expected to have
declined to zero, but substratum erosion from roads continues on about 567 acres in the project
The primary foreseeable action includes Whiskey South project, but no road construction or harvest is proposed on
highly erodible materials for that project. Approximately 3 miles of existing road would be closed but the degree of
erosion abatement is uncertain.
Erosion from timber harvest units or burned areas has typically declined to negligible after 5 years.
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area. The alternatives will add from 12 to 20 acres of road construction on soil substrata highly
susceptible to erosion, while the foreseeable Whiskey South project does not propose any road
construction on highly erodible substrata.
Some thinning and pruning have occurred around administrative structures as part of defensible
space projects in the analysis area. This work is accomplished by hand, with little soil exposure
or likelihood of erosion. '
Roads have been constructed on highly erodible substrata throughout the settlement history of
the watershed. Some of the most impactive were those constructed along valley bottoms during
the mining eras: in 1896 up mainstem Crooked River, 1935 up East Fork Crooked River, and
1940 up Fivemile Creek. These roads generally were located and constructed with little regard
for erosion control. Other roads were built in the 1960s through early1980s on highly erodible
substrata in the Silver Creek, Relief Creek, and on the west side of Lower Crooked River
subwatersheds. These had low levels of design controls for erosion control. Stacked roads for
jammer logging were built in the same era in East Fork Relief Creek. These can interact to
concentrate erosion. From the mid 1980s to early 1990s more roads were built around
Deadwood Mountain, west side of Lower Crook River, and east side of Middle Crooked River.
During the 1980s and 1990s improved road location and design measures for erosion control
were implemented. The temporary roads proposed for this project on highly erodible substrata
are mostly in Silver and Relief Creek.
Mining impacts on at least 331 acres are likely to have resulted in localized severe erosion.
This activity was concentrated in mainstem Crooked River, East Fork Crooked River, and lower
Relief Creek. Dredging impacts were greatest in the 1930s. No harvest or road buHding is
proposed within areas of past mine impacts.
Proposed harvest and temporary road construction are extensive in all but East Fork Crooked
River. Proposed harvest on highly erodible surface soils is mostly concentrated in Silver and
Relief Creeks, where slopes are steep. Cumulative erosion due to the project would
constrained by design and mitigation applied to harvest units and new temporary roads, and
decommissioning of temporary and old roads.
MASS EROSION
DIRECT EFFECTS
TABLE 3.22 - INDICATOR OF MASS EROSION: CROOKED RIVER
Activity
Acres of timber harvest on lands preliminarily mapped as high
landslide hazard. No road construction is proposed on high
hazard areas.
Alternative
A
0
B
11
C
12
D
12
E
10
ALTERNATIVE A- NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
Under the 'no action' alternative, mass erosion processes would remain a modest factor in soil
processes in the analysis area. Mass erosion from natural causes would continue at small
scales and infrequent rates. Mass erosion from past management activities would continue at a
localized scale and declining rate as old roads stabilized and harvest units revegetated. No new
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management sources of mass erosion would occur from these alternatives, so the net trend
would be reduced management-derived mass erosion. However, no soil or watershed
improvement activities would occur, so the long-term upward trend would be slow.
If a wildfire occurred, consequent mass erosion could range from modest to locally severe,
depending on location, size and severity of burn, soil disturbance associated with suppression,
salvage logging, or burn rehabilitation activities, and interaction of watershed response with the
existing transportation system. The scope of such impacts is not foreseeable, given the
uncertainties of fire ignition and burning weather.
The continued accumulation of dead and down fuel loads could contribute to increased potential
for locally severe burning behavior, which can increase the likelihood of mass erosion in steep
draws, drainage headlands, and on steep, wet lower slopes, because rooting strength would be
lost, and more moisture available. These effects are similar to clearcut logging and broadcast
burning. Alternative evaluation would depend on the reduction of wildfire size and severity in
untreated areas, and in areas where partial canopy removal and underburn reduce likely wildfire
severity. Refer to the discussion of fire hazard in the Fire section.
ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, AND E
Mass erosion hazard would change slightly from natural rates under Alternatives B, C, D, and E.
Ten to 13 acres of harvest are now proposed under any alternative on lands mapped as high
risk for landslides. They will be dropped from harvest wherever the risk is validated through
field review. Less than 1 acre of temporary road construction is proposed on lands mapped as
high risk. Road location will be adjusted as needed .based on field review to avoid areas of high
landslide hazard. Extensive field reviews identified localized areas of risk, and these areas
were dropped from consideration (Gerhardt, M., 2003a). Design and mitigation measures
address localized areas of significant landslide risk that may be identified during project layout,
and adjustment of harvest prescriptions to maintain slope stability.
Soil restoration proposed on existing impacted sites can sometimes address existing mass
erosion problems. Activities that include restoration of stream crossings and wetlands on roads,
and recontouring roads and temporary roads can treat existing slope failure problems and
reduce risk for future failures.
No roads proposed for decommissioning under any alternative in Crooked River are on land
mapped as high landslide hazard, but local road and slope failures would be identified and
treated as roads are decommissioned.
INDIRECT EFFECTS - ALL ALTERNATIVES
Indirect effects are likely to be slight, and differences among alternatives slight, because of little
activity proposed on landslide prone terrain, and the mitigation that would be applied. The
relative ranking of potential indirect effects by alternative is (least to greatest effects): A, E, B,
and C/D.
Indirect effects of mass erosion include effects to vegetation and hydrologic processes. Mass
erosion may affect surface or substratum materials. Mass erosion of surface soil removes the
materials with the greatest ability to hold moisture and nutrients, potentially resulting in greater
drought stress, poorer growth, and susceptibility to pathogens or fire. Since volcanic ash is not
easily replaced, these effects may be very long lasting. Certain species have a greater
competitive advantage in eroded soils, like weeds or lodgepole pine, so that shifts in plant
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community composition and consequent disturbance regimes, like erosion or fire, could occur.
Typically mass erosion mixes surface and substratum materials so the unique properties of the
surface soil are lost. Mass-eroded surface and substratum material may be delivered to
streams and have consequences to water quality, stream temperature, quality of fish habitat,
and channel morphology. See Sections 3.2. - Watershed and 3.3. - Fisheries.
IRREVERSIBLE OR IRRETRIEVABLE EFFECTS - ALL ALTERNATIVES
There are no irreversible or irretrievable direct effects of mass erosion, except for potential loss
of volcanic ash-influenced topsoil. See the section of effects for surface erosion. Anticipated
mass erosion processes under action or 'no action' alternatives are of slight probability, size, or
effects, and are unlikely to exceed natural rates.
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS - ALL ALTERNATIVES
TABLE 3.23 - INDICATORS OF CUMULATIVE MASS EROSION: CROOKED RIVER
Activity
Acres of road construction or harvest
on lands preliminarily mapped as high
landslide hazard
Existing Condition Plus Proposed and Foreseeable
Actions1
A
230
B
241
C
242
D
241
E
240
EXISTING
CONDITION
215
Cumulative effects are directly related to the kind and scope of past, proposed and foreseeable
timber harvest or fuel reduction activities and temporary road construction in susceptible terrain.
The relative ranking of likely cumulative effects by alternative is (least to greatest effect): A, E,
B, and C/D. The design and mitigation measures identified in Table 2.3 would constrain the risk
of effects to slight.
Activities that result in mass erosion are unlikely to have significant cumulative effects in the
analysis area because of the low incidence of activities proposed on landslide prone terrain.
Mitigation and restoration may stabilize failures on existing roads by decommissioning/while
proposed temporary road construction would be in low hazard locations.
Past road construction in high hazard landslide prone areas is dominated by the construction of
the main Crooked River Road 233 in 1896, which accounts for 54 percent of all road
construction in high hazard settings. The 311 Road up East Fork Crooked River, built in 1935,
accounts for an additional 23 percent of construction in a high hazard setting and the 9838
Road in 1984 in the headwaters of Silver Creek accounts for 12 percent. Field evidence of
actual mass wasting indicates that periodic small road cut failures along the main Crooked River
Road and 9838 Road have been the predominant expression of mass wasting in the watershed,
aside from the evidence of old debris avalanches in channels, probably associated with past
severe wildfires and localized small slumps associated with wetlands on steeper slopes.
The primary foreseeable action includes the Whiskey South project, which harvests 15 acres on lands mapped as
high hazard for landslides.
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The thinning and pruning that have occurred around administrative structures as part of
defensible space projects in the analysis area will not increase mass wasting risk, because
larger, deeper rooted trees that promote stability will be retained. Most of these are in Lower
Crooked River, Silver Creek, and Relief Creek, and were part of the projects listed above.
Fifteen acres of harvest are proposed on lands mapped as high landslide hazard for the
foreseeable Whiskey South project, but no road construction. Field review and development of
mitigation measures have reduced the risk of slope failure due to harvest on that terrain to
slight.
COMPLIANCE WITH FOREST SOIL QUALITY STANDARDS
DIRECT EFFECTS
TABLE 3.24 - INDICATORS OF DIRECT SOIL EFFECTS BY ALTERNATIVE: CROOKED RIVER
Activity
Number of proposed activity areas on FS lands estimated
to not meet Forest Plan soil quality standard 2
Alternative
A
0
B
0
c
0
D
0
E
0
ALTERNATIVE A - No ACTION ALTERNATIVE
Under the 'no action' alternative, the existing condition for compliance with Soil Quality
Standards would continue, with slight amelioration as slow natural recovery of compacted
surface soil occurred and surface soil development in disturbed areas occurred. Landings,
temporary roads, and compacted or excavated skid trails would not recover enough within the
temporal bounds of this analysis that most past activity areas would meet current standards.
No additional lands would be subject to temporary road construction or fuel reduction that would
result in soil conditions not in compliance with standards from any of the action alternatives.
However, no soil or watershed improvement activities would occur that might accelerate soil
recovery, so the long-term upward trend would be slower in untreated soil restoration areas,
than with soil restoration.
If a wildfire occurred, consequent damage to soil conditions from suppression activities, burn
severity, or salvage logging could range from negligible to severe, depending on location, size,
and severity of burn and subsequent administrative activities.
The continued accumulation of dead and down fuel loads could contribute to increased potential
for locally severe burning behavior, but whether this might result in greater or more lasting soil
damage than road construction or ground-based logging operations is uncertain. Wildfire
seldom results in compaction or displacement, but could result in ground cover loss and erosion
that exceeds Forest Plan standards or Regional Guidelines. Evaluation of alternatives depends
on being able to compare fire size, location, and severity in untreated areas. The scope of such
impacts is not foreseeable, given the uncertainties of fire ignition and burning weather. See the
discussion of fire hazard in Section 3.4. - Fire.
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ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, and E
Under Alternatives B, C, D, and E, the areas proposed for ground-based timber harvest or
mechanical fuel reduction on soils highly susceptible to compaction or displacement are the
areas most vulnerable to exceeding Forest Plan soil standard number 2. The areas proposed
for such harvest have no recorded history of harvest or mechanical disturbance in the past and
no evidence of disturbance from aerial photo inspection, and reconnaissance field sampling
and are expected to fully meet either Forest Plan Standards at this time.
Project design and mitigation measures are required that constrain equipment type timing of
operation, location and density of skid trails, and restoration of mechanically disturbed areas
with the objective of ensuring that activity areas meet Forest Plan soil standard number 2 upon
completion of the proposed activities. These would apply to all alternatives. Monitoring of
activities is required prior, during, and post-implementation to assure that compliance is
achieved. This will allow adjustments to operations or additional restoration to ensure that all
activity areas meet forest soil quality standards.
Additional soil restoration is proposed under Alternatives B, C, D, and E. Recovery of soil
physical properties is not expected to be complete on all treated acres, but will establish an
upward trend for soil conditions for the treated sites. Activities include decompaction
recontounng, addition of organic matter, weed control, and revegetation to restore compacted
and displaced soils on main skid trails, existing temporary roads, landings, and newly
constructed temporary roads. The relative ranking of alternatives for soil restoration activities is
(greatest to least restoration): E, D, C, B, and A. Alternative D would be equal to E in
restoration if all the additional restoration is implemented.
INDIRECT EFFECTS - ALL ALTERNATIVES
Indirect effects of compliance with soil quality standards are more appropriately addressed
under Soil Compaction and Displacement.
IRREVERSIBLE OR IRRETRIEVABLE EFFECTS- ALL ALTERNATIVES
Irreversible and irretrievable effects of compliance with soil quality standards are more
appropriately addressed under Soil Compaction and Displacement.
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS - ALL ALTERNATIVES
Cumulative effects of compliance with soil quality standards are more appropriately addressed
under Soil Compaction and Displacement, because compliance is assessed at the activity area
scale.
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3.1.2.2. ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS: SOIL CHEMICAL AND BIOLOGICAL PROPERTIES
SOIL POTASSIUM AND NITROGEN Loss
DIRECT EFFECTS
TABLE 3.25 - INDICATORS OF SOIL POTASSIUM AND NITROGEN Loss: CROOKED RIVER
Activity
Acres of whole tree yarding with more than 50 percent
canopy removal on geologic materials potentially
susceptible to potassium losses
Acres of whole tree yarding with more than 50 percent
canopy removal, that could contribute to nitrogen losses
Alternative
A
0
0
B
0
0
c
0
0
D
0
0
E
0
0
ALTERNATIVE A- No ACTION ALTERNATIVE
Under the 'no action' alternative, soil potassium and nitrogen would continue to cycle at current
rates, and not be subject to removal through harvest or prescribed fire. Accrual would continue
at low rates from rock weathering, atmospheric deposition, and nitrogen fixation. Soil nutrients
would increasingly be bound in organic matter complexes and slowly released through decay.
The net trend would be reduced management-derived nutrient loss. However, no soil or
watershed improvement activities would occur, that might accelerate biological recovery on
degraded sites, so the long-term upward trend would be slower in untreated potential soil
restoration areas.
If a wildfire occurred, consequent soil nutrient loss could range from negligible to severe,
depending on location, size and severity of burn, loss through salvage logging, and loss of
nutrients through erosion or leaching. Fire could also make more nutrients readily available for
plant uptake and benefit post-fire plant growth. The scope of such impacts is not foreseeable,
given the uncertainties of fire ignition and burning weather.
The continued accumulation of dead and down fuel loads could contribute to increased potential
for locally severe burning behavior, which can increase the likelihood of nutrient loss to
volatilization, erosion, or leaching. However, whole-tree yarding, hot broadcast burns, or hot
burns of machine-piled slash could have equal effects because of the removal of material from
the site. Concentration of slash in piles may result in losses due to hotter fires or significant
reduction of nutrients from large areas. Alternative evaluation would depend on the reduction of
wildfire size and severity in untreated areas, and in areas where partial canopy removal and
underburn reduce likely wildfire severity. Refer to the discussion of fire hazard in Section 3.4. -
Fire.
ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, AND E
Potential for potassium and nitrogen loss has been constrained by design and mitigation
measures under Alternatives B, C, D, and E. Bole-only yarding would be required, so the tops
and limbs would be left on site. Slash would be over wintered one season so that potassium
and other minerals would be leached from the foliage prior to burning. On grapple piled units,
slash piles would be as small as possible and well dispersed over the site to reduce the
likelihood of local nutrient removal, and reduce fire intensity that could contribute to nutrient
losses from volatilization. See Table 2.3.
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The acres of soil restoration described under soil compaction and displacement would improve
potential for nitrogen accretion and retention by accelerating soil stabilization and organic matter
development.
INDIRECT EFFECTS - ALL ALTERNATIVES
The design and mitigation measures reduce differences among action alternatives to negligible
The 'no action' alternative would result in less immediate nutrient loss, but wildfire could affect
any alternative by resulting in volatilization, leaching or erosion loss of nutrients but also by
making more nutrients readily available for plant uptake.
Indirect effects of loss of soil nutrients include reduced growth and yield, increased susceptibility
to pathogens (like root infection), and shifting species composition as species with ability to
sequester nutrients (like grand fir) out compete species less able (like larch) (Garrison and
Moore, 1998).
IRREVERSIBLE OR IRRETRIEVABLE EFFECTS - ALL ALTERNATIVES
There is little difference among action alternatives, given the design and mitigation measures.
The 'no action' alternative would result in less nutrient loss, but wildfire could affect any
alternative by resulting in volatilization, leaching or erosion loss of nutrients, but also by making
more nutrients readily available for plant uptake.
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS - ALL ALTERNATIVES
TABLE 3.26 - INDICATORS OF CUMULATIVE POTASSIUM AND NITROGEN Loss: CROOKED RIVER
Activity
Acres of more than 50 percent canopy
removal including tops and limbs on
geologic materials potentially
susceptible to potassium losses. Past
activities were whole tree yarded or
yarded of unmerchantable material.
Acres of more than 50 percent canopy
removal that could contribute to
nitrogen losses. Past activities were
clear cut with slash disposal
Existing Condition Plus Proposed and Foreseeable Actions1
A
358
5146
B
358
5146
C
358
5146
D
358
5146
E
358
5146
EXISTING
126
4914
Past effects to potassium reserves due to management are not thought to be significant,
because no entry into areas with prior timber harvest is proposed. Mitigation and restoration are
required that would constrain effects to current or slightly degraded levels for potassium, and
little long-lasting effect for nitrogen. Differences among alternatives are only due to the scope of
harvesting and the relative ranking is (least to greatest effect): A, E, B, C, and D. All alternatives
meet current recommendations for nutrient retention. The 'no action' alternative would result in
The foreseeable Whiskey South project does not propose any whole tree yarding, but does propose clear cutting
and machine piling and burning on an estimated 232 acres, with no specified measures to sustain nitrogen or
potassium.
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less immediate nutrient loss, but wildfire could affect any alternative by resulting in volatilization,
leaching or erosion loss of nutrients, but also by making more nutrients readily available for
plant uptake.
Activities that cause soil potassium and nitrogen loss may have cumulative effects on soil
productivity, plant growth and yield, susceptibility to pathogens, and successional processes,
with repeated entries. Past whole tree yarding or mechanical piling and burning are poorly
documented. Records indicate the highest incidence of this activity occurred in 1986-1987 in
isolated stands in Lower and Middle Crooked River. However, this still accounts for less than 1
percent of any subwatershed. The piling and burning proposed under Alternative D would add
up to 2 percent of Relief Creek and Middle Crooked River subwatersheds, and lesser amounts
elsewhere, but mitigation is specified to minimize whole tree yarding and reduce nutrient losses
from big burn piles. See Table 2.3.
Some thinning and pruning have occurred around administrative structures as part of defensible
space projects in the analysis area. This work is accomplished by hand. Lower branches and
small trees were generally removed, and either hand piled and burned. Localized potential for
cumulative soil nutrient loss is possible, if treatment is continuously sustained.
Foreseeable actions include an estimated 363 acres of timber harvest or mechanical fuel
reduction as part of the Whiskey South project. No whole tree yarding is proposed. A mix of
treatments is proposed for slash disposal, with perhaps 232 acres likely to be machine piled,
which could contribute to redistribution and volatilization of potassium and nitrogen.
SOIL WOOD
DIRECT EFFECTS
TABLE 3.27 - INDICATOR OF SOIL WOOD Loss: CROOKED RIVER
Activity
Acres of clearcut harvest and slash disposal with potential
for high soil wood loss
Alternative
A
0
B
690
C
748
D
804
E
536
ALTERNATIVE A - No ACTION ALTERNATIVE
Under the 'no action' alternative, soil wood would continue to accumulate and slowly decay
through physical and biological mechanisms. The net trend would be reduced management-
derived loss of soil wood. However, no soil or watershed improvement activities would occur,
that might accelerate biological recovery in degraded areas, so the long-term upward trend
would be slower. If a wildfire occurred, consequent loss of soil wood could range from
negligible to severe, depending on location, size and severity of burn, and removal of dead
standing trees associated with salvage logging. Fire could also create standing dead trees that
provide recruitment for soil wood over the long term. The scope of such impacts is not
foreseeable, given the uncertainties of fire ignition, burning weather, and potential post-fire
salvage logging.
The continued accumulation of dead and down fuel loads could contribute to increased potential
for locally severe burning behavior, which can result in loss of existing soil wood, while at the
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same time recruiting new potential soil wood. However, fuel reduction activities hot broadcast
burns, or hot burns of machine-piled slash could have equal effects because of the removal of
wood boles from. Concentration of slash in piles may result in losses due to hotter fires or
significant reduction of large wood over extensive areas. Large historic fires burned at 26-69
percent lethality in the adjacent Red River watershed; it is unlikely that any future fire would be
outside this wide range, with or without treatment, and loss due to fire is expected to be less
than loss due to removal. In general, wildfire effects could often be preferable in large wood
cycling and recruitment.
ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, and E
Potential for loss of large woody debris is greatest for Alternative D and least for E with B and C
being intermediate. Provision for retention of down wood, snags, and green' trees should
provide for some wood retention and recruitment in all alternatives.
The likelihood of soil wood loss is less on the acres proposed for precommercial thinning
shelterwood or group selection harvest. All of these acres would have more than 50 percent
crown removal, but most of that is in smaller diameter classes which would not provide as
valuable a soil wood resource as the larger trees left. The monitoring plan (Appendix I) requires
adequate oversight and monitoring during implementation to ensure that soil wood snags and
green trees are left as prescribed.
For the proposed roadside salvage of dead and dying trees, large snags would be left, and the
intensity and extent of tree removal would be low.
The soil restoration described under soil compaction and displacement would improve long-term
potential for soil wood accrual by accelerating soil stabilization and organic matter development.
INDIRECT EFFECTS - ALL ALTERNATIVES
The relative ranking of likely indirect effects by alternative is (least to greatest effect): A, E, B C
and D. ....
Indirect effects of soil wood loss include altered processes of forest regeneration and growth,
favoring species requiring lower soil moisture, lower nutrient levels and greater tolerance for
potential soil erosion. Indirect effects could also include loss of habitat for species requiring soil
wood as dens or substrate for invertebrates, bacteria and fungi, which affect food availability for
small rodents and their predators.
IRREVERSIBLE OR IRRETRIEVABLE EFFECTS - ALL ALTERNATIVES
There are no irreversible or irretrievable direct effects due to loss of soil wood, although long-
term productivity could be compromised through the age of the next forest stand, until soil wood
reserves begin to be replenished.
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CUMULATIVE EFFECTS - ALL ALTERNATIVES
TABLE 3.28 - INDICATORS OF CUMULATIVE SOIL WOOD EFFECTS BY ALTERNATIVE: CROOKED RIVER
Activity
Acres of clearcut timber harvest and
slash disposal with potential for high
soil wood loss .
Existing Condition Plus Proposed and Foreseeable
Actions1
A
5146
B
5836
C
5894
D
595
E
5682
EXISTING
CONDITION
4914
Mitigation and restoration are required to constrain effects to current or improved levels, and
develop a long-term upward trend on some previously degraded sites. The prescriptions for
large woody debris retention, green tree and snag retention, and controls on size and intensity
of burn piles should result in minor cumulative effects from the proposed actions. The relative
ranking of potential cumulative effects by alternative is (least to greatest effect): A, E, B, C, and
D. All alternatives would meet current recommendations for soil wood retention. Wildfire might
consume substantial quantities of existing soil wood under any alternative, but would recruit
standing dead trees, in the absence of extensive salvage logging.
Activities that cause repeated loss of soil wood may have cumulative effects on soil porosity,
water holding capacity, aeration, biological activity, and long-term productivity, in the case of
frequent repeated entries. This is not likely to be a concern for the proposed activities because
no areas of harvest are targeted for a second entry.
Activities that result in large areas of depleted soil wood may have cumulative effects at the
landscape scale. Past activities considered in cumulative effects are regeneration timber
harvest and slash disposal.
Activities that result in large areas of depleted soil wood may have cumulative effects at the
landscape scale. Past activities considered in cumulative effects are regeneration timber
harvest and slash disposal. The 4,914 acres of clearcut harvest with dozer piling or broadcast
burning have been widespread throughout most subwatersheds, and particularly in the 1970s
and 1980s in Middle Crooked River; 1970s through 1990s in Relief Creek; and the 1980s
through 1990s in Lower Crooked River. All harvest is too recent to have recovered large wood
on the ground. Relief Creek has been most affected (29 percent). Alternative D would affect
large woody debris recruitment most in Relief Creek (5 percent), but the prescriptions for large
woody debris retention, green tree and snag retention, and controls on size and intensity of burn
piles should result in minor cumulative effects from the proposed actions.
Some thinning and pruning have occurred around administrative structures as part of defensible
space projects in the analysis area. This work is accomplished by hand. Soil wood was not
generally removed, but some snags were removed. Localized potential for cumulative soil wood
loss is possible if treatment is continuously sustained.
1 The primary foreseeable action includes Whiskey South project
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Foreseeable actions include a proposed 363 acres of harvest in the Whiskey South project An
estimated 232 acres will have high levels of crown removal and machine piling and may be
susceptible to soil wood loss.
3-1.3. EXISTING CONDITION -AMERICAN RIVER
The analysis area is dominated (96 percent) by surface soils derived from volcanic-ash
influenced loess that is highly susceptible to compaction and displacement, and whose
favorable moisture and nutrient holding properties are critical to long-term productivity These
surface layers are relatively thin and it is hard to decompact them without mixing with underlying
infertile substrata. Soil substrata include both highly erodible (42 percent) and moderatelv
erodible (58 percent) materials.
Detrimentally compacted and displaced soil conditions are widespread in the watershed due to
past mining, ground-based logging and dozer piling, and road construction. These conditions
are primarily associated with harvest units (about 19 percent), system roads (about 1.4 percent)
and localized mine sites (about .5 percent). In addition, the major privately owned meadows ( 6
percent) have long been grazed, farmed, or otherwise impacted and are expected to have
sustained detrimental soil disturbance.
Soil substratum erosion from a dense road network contributes to instream effects.
Landslide hazard is dominantly low (0.6 percent of the area is rated as high risk) and incidence
of mass wasting is infrequent, small in scale, and localized in effects. Areas of Tertiary
sediments within the Elk City Township are prone to small road cut failures, because of their
stratified materials that perch water.
Geologic materials thought to be susceptible to potassium loss are widespread in the watershed
(85 percent). Nutrient losses, including potassium and nitrogen, are expected to have occurred
in areas of regeneration harvest (15 percent of the watershed), especially where whole tree
yarding or intensive slash disposal has occurred.
Soil wood regimes have been interrupted on large areas (14 percent of the watershed) due to
regeneration harvest and slash disposal with little provision for retaining existing soil wood or
providing for soil wood recruitment by leaving live and dead trees.
An estimated 73 percent of past timber harvest activity areas exceed the 20 percent detrimental
disturbance threshold in current Forest Plan soil quality standards. Percent of detrimental soil
disturbance is expected to range from 20 to 80 percent on units that have been tractor logged
and dozer piled, based on similarity to Red River soil types and management history.
Widespread lodgepole pine mortality will result in locally heavy accumulations of down wood.
This may result in locally severe fire effects to soils in the case of wildfire under severe burning
conditions. These potential fire effects are within the historic range of variability for soils in
these fire regimes for severity, although the extent could be more widespread due to effects of
fire suppression.
3.1.4. EXISTING CONDITION - CROOKED RIVER
The analysis area is dominated (86 percent) by surface soils derived from volcanic-ash
influenced loess that is highly susceptible to compaction and displacement, and whose
favorable moisture and nutrient holding properties are critical to long-term productivity. These
surface layers are relatively thin and it is hard to decompact them without mixing with underlying
infertile substrata. Highly erodible materials dominate (76 percent) soil substrata.
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Detrimentally compacted and displaced soil conditions are common in the watershed due to
past mining, ground-based logging and dozer piling, and road construction. These conditions
are primarily associated with harvest units (about 8 percent), system roads (about 1.2 percent),
and localized mine sites (a minimum of .7 percent).
Soil substratum erosion from roads, mines and trails contributes to instream effects in lower
Crooked River.
Landslide hazard is dominantly low (7.5 percent of the area is rated as high risk) and incidence
of mass wasting is infrequent, usually small in scale, and localized in effects.
Geologic materials thought to be susceptible to potassium loss are common in the watershed
(54 percent). Nutrient losses, including potassium and nitrogen, are expected to have occurred
in areas of regeneration harvest (11 percent of the watershed), especially where whole tree
yarding or intensive slash disposal has occurred.
Soil wood regimes have been interrupted on large areas (11 percent of the watershed) due to
regeneration harvest and slash disposal with little provision for retaining existing soil wood or
providing for soil wood recruitment by leaving live and dead trees.
An estimated 69 percent of past timber harvest activity areas do not meet Forest Plan soil
quality standards. Percent of detrimental soil disturbance is expected to range from 20 to 80
percent on units that have been tractor logged and dozer piled based on similarity to Red River
soil types and management history.
Widespread lodgepole pine mortality at low and mid elevations will result in locally heavy
accumulations of down wood. This may result in locally severe fire effects to soils in the case of
wildfire under severe burning conditions. These potential fire effects are within the historic
range of variability for soils in these fire regimes for severity, but extent could be more
widespread due to effects of fire suppression.
3.1.5. SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES - AMERICAN
RIVER/CROOKED RIVER
Soil physical properties would be most affected by temporary road construction and use of
ground-based mechanical harvest systems. Compliance with Forest soil quality standards
would be achieved through design and mitigation measures, and monitoring and adjustment of
activities prior to, during, and post treatment.
Surface soil loss from roads through displacement and mixing with infertile substrata has long
lasting consequences for soil productivity, because of the superiority of the volcanic ash surface
layer over subsoils and substrata. Road decommissioning will only partially recover soil
productivity, but should markedly reduce erosion.
Soil compaction and displacement on ground-based logging units may be dispersed widely,
slow to naturally recover, and difficult to restore because the ash surface material is relatively
thin and restoration methods may be constrained by technology or economic considerations.
Most soils in the project area have shallow topsoil over sterile subsoil, which will require careful
decompaction to avoid mixing (Andrus and Froelich, 1983).
Relative ranking of alternatives for effects to soil erosion is (least to greatest): E, D, A, B, and C,
while relative ranking with respect to soil compaction and displacement, mass erosion and
compliance with soil quality standards is: A, E, B, C, and D. All alternatives would control
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erosion, compaction, displacement, and mass erosion through compliance with road and
harvest design criteria and mitigation measures.
Mitigation measures for compaction, displacement, and erosion are described in Table 2 3 and
include items 1,4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9,10, 11, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, and 22.
Monitoring prior to, during, and upon completion of activities is required for identifying areas of
risk or prior impacts that require adjustment of activities, or effects of operations that may lead
to unacceptable soil resource damage or non-compliance with soil quality standards (Appendix
Wildfire under any alternative would not likely result in extensive compaction, displacement or
substratum erosion, except as a consequence of fire suppression activities and potential
subsequent salvage logging. Surface soil erosion would likely increase in areas of steep slopes
with hot burns. K K
Soil chemical properties would be most affected by activities that result in excessive loss of
nutrients where there is the potential for whole tree yarding, machine piling and burning and
clear cutting with potentially hot broadcast burns. Mitigation measures are required that will
reduce these effects, through limiting whole-tree yarding, ensuring that slash is over wintered so
that nutrients can leach into the soil, using broadcast burning where possible rather than
excavator piling, and ensuring that machine piling, where required results in small well-
distributed piles that would less likely to result in loss through volatilization than large piles See
items 9,13, and 17 in Table 2.3.
Wildfire under any alternative could affect nitrogen regimes through volatilization, erosion, or
leaching loss or through chemical transformation making existing nitrogen more available'for
plant uptake. Potassium is less susceptible to volatilization losses.
Soil biological properties could be most affected by activities that result in high levels of loss
or redistribution of existing coarse woody debris, and recruitable coarse woody debris (snags
and green trees). Mitigation measures are required to reduce these effects, through retention of
down wood, green trees, and snags to levels that comply with existing guidance (Graham et al
1994; USDA FS, 2000). See item 12 in Table 2.3.
Wildfire under any alternative could materially affect coarse woody debris regimes through both
consumption and recruitment.
Soil restoration activities are planned as part of the watershed improvement activities, as part
of harvest impact mitigation on new units, restoration on some old units, and will also accrue as
a consequence of decommissioning of existing roads.
Soil restoration would consist of scarification, recontouring, stabilization for erosion control,
application of organic matter, revegetation, and weed control as needed.
Soil restoration can potentially improve infiltration, improve water and nutrient regimes, restore
more natural water yield regimes, reduce likelihood of runoff events: reduce potential for weed
invasion, stabilize slopes, and improve tree growth and vegetation establishment (Luce 1997-
Sanborn et al., 1999a; Plotnikoff, et al., 1999; Andrus and Froelich, 1983; Sanborn'ef a/'
1999b; Foltz and Maillard, 2004; and Korb et al., 2004.)
Alternatives that maximize soil restoration and minimize new soil disturbances achieve the
greatest level of soil resource protection and restoration. Using these criteria, the relative
ranking of alternatives is (least to greatest impact) A, E, B, C, and D. Alternative A is somewhat
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problematic, because neither restoration nor impactive management activities are proposed.
However, it is a lot easier to avoid damage than to undo it, so this alternative is ranked higher
than the action alternatives.
Treatments typically address less than 3 percent of each old tractor-logged unit because
dispersed areas of soil damage are often hard to access and treat without compounding soil
resource damage.
SUMMARY OF CUMULATIVE EFFECTS - AMERICAN RIVER/CROOKED RIVER
SOIL PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
SOIL COMPACTION AND DISPLACEMENT AND COMPLIANCE WITH SOIL QUALITY STANDARDS
The relative ranking of cumulative effects by alternative is (least to greatest effect): A, E, B, C,
and D for both watersheds. All alternatives would meet Forest Plan soil quality standards with
respect to area of detrimental disturbance. All alternatives would minimize compaction and
displacement to a similar degree using the same design criteria and mitigation measures, and
using monitoring, adjustment of activities and post-activity restoration.
Cumulative effects due to soil compaction and displacement include altered soil porosity; water
holding capacity, aeration, and long-term productivity. Effects are in proportion to the past,
proposed and foreseeable area impacted by ground based logging, mining, and road
construction. The total percent of each watershed with long persistent soil damage under the
past, proposed and foreseeable actions is 9-10 percent for American River and 5-6 percent for
Crooked River. The 'no action' alternative A results in the least soil damage in each watershed.
Alternative E results in the least cumulative soil damage of the action alternatives in each
watershed.
SURFACE AND SUBSURFACE EROSION
The relative ranking of cumulative effects by alternative is (least to greatest effect): E, D, A, B,
and C for both watersheds. All alternatives would minimize erosion displacement to a similar
degree using the same design criteria and mitigation measures, and using monitoring,
adjustment of activities and post-activity restoration.
Cumulative effects due to increased erosion include reduced water holding capacity, nutrient
reserves and retention, long-term productivity, and altered vegetation dynamics, as well as
instream effects of sedimentation. Effects are in proportion to the past, proposed, and
foreseeable area impacted by road building and mining on erodible substrata, harvest on
erodible surface soils, as well as the compensation provided by road decommissioning and soil
restoration. All alternatives would minimize erosion to a similar degree using the same design
criteria and mitigation measures and using monitoring, adjustment of activities and post-activity
restoration.
MASS EROSION
Cumulative effects are expected to be negligible for American River, and slight and in proportion
to the miles of road construction and timber harvest on moderately susceptible terrain in
Crooked River. The relative ranking of cumulative effects by alternative for Crooked River is
(least to greatest potential effect): A, B/E, and C/D. All alternatives would minimize mass
erosion to a similar degree using the same design criteria and mitigation measures, and using
monitoring, adjustment of activities and post-activity restoration.
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Cumulative effects due to mass erosion may include loss of more fertile topsoii delivery of large
and fine sediment, rock, and woody debris to streams, loss of investments such as roads or
culverts, and shifts in plant community composition. Effects are in proportion to the past
proposed and foreseeable area impacted by landslides in response to road building and timber
harvest on landslide prone terrain. All alternatives avoid entry into areas of high landslide
hazard.
SOIL CHEMICAL AND BIOLOGICAL PROPERTIES
SOIL POTASSIUM AND NITROGEN
Differences among alternatives are only due to the scope of harvesting and the relative ranking
is (least to greatest effect): A, E, B, C, and D. All alternatives meet current recommendations for
nutrient retention. Cumulative effects are in proportion to the scope of past, proposed and
foreseeable regeneration timber harvest, particularly whole tree yarding, and likelihood for piling
and burning slash that may result in extensive nutrient redistribution and volatilization.
Activities that cause soil potassium and nitrogen loss may have cumulative effects on soil
productivity, plant susceptibility to pathogens, and successional processes. Geologic materials
potentially susceptible to potassium loss are dominant in American River and common in
Crooked River. Mitigation measures are required that will reduce these effects, through limiting
whole-tree yarding, ensuring that slash is over wintered so that nutrients can leach into the soil
using broadcast burning where possible rather than excavator piling, and ensuring that machine
piling, where required, results in small well-distributed piles that would less likely to result in loss
through volatilization than large piles. Other projects proposed in the analysis area similarly
limit whole tree yarding and emphasize broadcast burning, but local losses could occur in areas
of machine piling followed by hot burns. Effects would be limited by monitoring, adjustment of
activities and post-activity restoration.
SOIL WOOD
The relative ranking of potential cumulative effects is in proportion to the area of regeneration
timber harvest and slash disposal and is (least to greatest effect): A, E, B, C, and D. All
alternatives would meet current recommendations for soil wood retention.
Activities that cause repeated or widespread loss of soil wood may have cumulative effects on
soil porosity, water holding capacity, aeration, biological activity, and long-term productivity.
Repeated entries are not an issue for the proposed action, but activities that result in large
areas of depleted soil wood may have effects at the landscape scale. Mitigation and restoration
will reduce effects. Design criteria in Table 2.3 specify retention of acting large woody debris
and well-distributed snags and green trees for recruiting debris. Differences among alternatives
would be reduced through mitigation and through monitoring, adjustment of activities and post-
activity restoration.
Wildfire might consume substantial quantities of existing soil wood under any alternative, but
would recruit standing dead trees, in the absence of extensive salvage logging.
FOREST PLAN COMPLIANCE
Detrimental soil erosion, mass wasting, compaction, displacement, and puddling are potential
effects of management activities that are addressed in the soil quality standards in the Forest
Plan. Such effects can contribute to long-term impairment of the land's productivity, as
addressed by the Multiple-Use Sustained Yield Act of 1960.
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Design and mitigation measures for the American and Crooked River project constrain such
effects to be within Forest Plan standards. Additional soil restoration activities will improve soil
productivity and contribute to hydrologic function in the project area. Effects will also be
minimized through monitoring, adjustment of activities and post-activity restoration. Monitoring
must demonstrate that design and mitigation measures are implemented and effective in
ensuring that the project is consistent with the Forest Plan and environmental law, including the
monitoring requirement in Section 6 of the National Forest Management Act and 36 CFR 200.1,
1987.
The following Forestwide Standards for Soils, which include all those listed on page II-22 of the
Forest Plan, apply to this project and will be met as follows;
TABLE 3.29 - FORESTWIDE STANDARDS FOR SOILS
STANDARD
NUMBER
SUBJECT SUMMARY
COMPLIANCE ACHIEVED BY
1
Evaluate the potential for soil displacement,
compaction, puddling, mass wasting, and surface soil
erosion for all ground-disturbing activities
Land type mapping and interpretation, field
validation, and data synthesis, road and unit
field reviews.
A minimum of 80 percent of an activity area shall not be
detrimentally compacted, displaced, or puddled upon
completion of activities.
Database, photo, field reviews and synthesis
of monitoring data to evaluate current status
of proposed activity areas.
b. Design and mitigation measures to minimize
detrimental disturbance. See Table 2.3.
c. Monitoring and to verify compliance and
augment mitigation or restoration if needed.
See Appendix I.
d. Supplementary soil restoration on other
activity areas to address past soil
disturbance. See Appendix D.
Maintain sufficient ground cover to minimize rill erosion
and sloughing on road cut and fill slopes and sheet
erosion on other activity areas.
a. Design and mitigation measures to minimize
erosion. See Table 2.3.
b. Monitoring and restoration requirements, to
verify compliance and augment mitigation if
needed. See Appendix I.
c. Supplementary soil restoration on other
activity areas to address past soil
disturbance. See Appendix D.
QS as as ess cs as
3.2. WATERSHED
SCOPE OF THE ANALYSIS
The watershed resources section considers physical processes such as water yield and
sediment yield, including effects on channel morphology and water quality. It is closely linked to
Section 3.1. - Soils and Section 3.3. - Fisheries, generally deriving information from the former
and contributing information to the latter.
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The geographic scope of the analysis for watershed resources includes two 5th code
watersheds, American River and Crooked River. American River contains fifteen 6th code
subwatersheds (also known as prescription watersheds). Project activities are located in nine of
the fifteen 6 code subwatersheds in American River. Crooked River contains five 6th code
subwatersheds. Project activities are located in four of the five subwatersheds in Crooked
River. Maps 7a and 7b show the project area watersheds. The affected area for cumulative
effects analysis includes the American and Crooked River watersheds and the mainstem South
Fork Clearwater River to the Forest Boundary below the Mt. Idaho Bridge.
The time period for the water yield analysis from project activities is about ten years. Full
recovery for a regeneration harvest to recover to pre-treatment conditions in terms of water yield
is considerably longer. However, most effects from timber harvest should be manifested within
ten years. Water yield effects from existing activities are considered since the late 1950s, which
is about when timber harvest records begin. Timber harvest activities associated with the early
mining period (1860s - 1930s) are assumed to have recovered in terms of water yield. Large
wildfires have not occurred in American River since 1919 and in Crooked River since 1945
Water yield effects from historic fires are assumed to have largely recovered.
The time period for the sediment yield analysis from project activities is about ten years.
Sediment yield effects from project activities are expected to be recovered within that time
period, since no new permanent roads are being constructed. Roads are considered to have
sediment yield effects throughout their life. Cumulative effects of sediment yield from wildfires
and human activities are considered since about 1870.
REGULATORY FRAMEWORK
NEZ PERCE NATIONAL FOREST PLAN DIRECTION
The Nez Perce Forest Plan directs that soil and water resources be managed at levels designed
to meet management objectives for watersheds. Water quality is to be managed by applying
best management practices (BMPs) and through scheduling the rate and location of activities to
ensure that State Water Quality Standards are met or exceeded (USDA FS, 1987a).
Appendix A to the Forest Plan established fish/water objectives for each prescription watershed
in the project area. The Plan recognizes that many of these watersheds do not meet fish/water
quality objectives under existing conditions. The Plan stipulates that an upward trend in aquatic
habitat carrying capacity be established in below-objective watersheds. This is accomplished
by limiting new disturbances, allowing natural recovery to occur and/or implementing activities
that would improve aquatic conditions. Discussion of aquatic trends is provided in Section 3.3 -
Fisheries, with further detail provided in Appendix E. Guidelines for percent sediment yield over
base and entry frequency per decade were also established in the Forest Plan. Information
from Forest Plan Appendix A for the project area watersheds is found in Appendix E (Tables E-1
and E-2). Watershed boundaries used in the analysis are found in Appendix E and shown in
detail on Maps 7a and 7b.
CLEAN WATER ACT AND IDAHO STATE WATER QUALITY STANDARDS
The Clean Water Act stipulates that states are to adopt water quality standards. Included in
these standards are provisions for identifying beneficial uses, establishing the status of
beneficial uses, setting water quality criteria, and establishing BMPs to control non-point
sources of pollution.
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Under the Idaho Water Quality Standards, designated beneficial uses exist for American and
Crooked Rivers (IDAPA 58.01.02). Tributaries of American and Crooked Rivers within the
project area do not have designated beneficial uses. However, they do support existing
beneficial uses and these are protected under the water quality standards. There are numerous
private and two State water uses adjacent to or downstream of the project area. Designated
and existing beneficial uses are detailed in Sections 3.2.1. - American River and 3.2.2. -
Crooked River.
The South Fork Clearwater River Subbasin Assessment and Total Maximum Daily Loads
(TMDLs) addresses water quality-limited streams listed under Section 303(d) of the Clean
Water Act (IDEQ et al, 2004). The Assessment and TMDLs is a joint effort of the Idaho
Department of Environmental Quality, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the Nez Perce
Tribe. The Nez Perce National Forest participated in the assessment and TMDL development,
with technical input and representation on the Watershed Advisory Group. The South' Fork
Clearwater River subbasin TMDLs applicable to the project area are for water temperature and
sediment and were approved by the EPA in July, 2004.
Using the currently approved 1998 list, there are no 303(d) listed streams within the project
area. However, the entire project area contributes to the South Fork Clearwater River, which is
listed for water temperature and sediment. TMDLs were developed for the South Fork
Clearwater River for water temperature and sediment. The sediment TMDL targets a 25
percent reduction in human-caused sediment yield to the South Fork Clearwater River. No
specific targets were set for tributaries, but it was recognized that much of the sediment yield
reduction would need to take place in the tributaries. The water temperature TMDL calls for
canopy density or shade targets on a stream reach basis throughout the subbasin. Different
analytical approaches were used for forested reaches than for the non-forested reaches and the
mainstem South Fork Clearwater River.
In June 2003, the IDEQ issued a draft Integrated 303(d)/305(b) Report for Idaho. The following
project area streams were proposed for listing under Section 5 as impaired waters for water
temperature: American River (below East Fork American River), Crooked River, East Fork
Crooked River, Relief Creek, and Sawmill Creek. The South Fork Clearwater River was
proposed for listing for water temperature and sediment. The South Fork Clearwater River
TMDLs were approved by EPA in July, 2004. It is assumed that all of the streams above will be
moved to Section 4a, as waters having an approved TMDL.
Section 404 of the Clean Water Act requires permits to dredge or fill within waters of the United
States. The US Army Corps of Engineers administers these provisions. Most of the instream
activities proposed under the American and Crooked River Project will require authorization
under Section 404, through application of either nationwide or site-specific permits.
IDAHO FOREST PRACTICES ACT
The Idaho Forest Practices Act regulates forest practices on all land ownerships in Idaho.
Forest practices on national forest lands must adhere to the rules pertaining to the Act (IDAPA
20.02.01). The rules are also incorporated as BMPs in the Idaho Water Quality Standards.
IDAHO STREAM CHANNEL PROTECTION ACT
The Idaho Stream Channel Protection Act regulates stream channel alterations between mean
high water marks on perennial streams in Idaho. Instream activities on national forest lands
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must adhere to the rules pertaining to the Act (IDAPA 37.03.07). The rules are also
incorporated as BMPs in the Idaho Water Quality Standards.
EXECUTIVE ORDERS 11988 AND 11990
These Federal executive orders provide for protection and management of floodplains and
wetlands. Numerous floodplains and wetlands exist within the project area.
ANALYSIS METHODS
Existing condition synthesis was obtained from the South Fork Clearwater Landscape
Assessment (USDA FS, 1998a), South Fork Clearwater River Biological Assessment (USDA
FS, 1999a) and South Fork Clearwater River Subbasin Assessment and TMDLs (IDEQ, et a/,
2004). Parts of the analysis relied on the Nez Perce National Forest Soil Survey (USDA FS!
1987b). Additional information was obtained from fieldwork conducted in the summers of 2002^
2003 and 2004. New field data collected for this project included watershed condition
inventories (e.g. road and culvert surveys), headwater channel surveys and reconnaissance fish
habitat surveys. CIS- generated reports were also used. This analysis compares the effects of
the alternatives on five watershed resource indicators, detailed below. Though discussed
independently, there is considerable interaction between these indicators within the watershed
and stream channel system.
INDICATOR 1 - WATERSHED CONDITION
Watershed condition indicators are a series of metrics that can be used to index the level of
disturbance in a watershed. They are usually expressed as densities or discrete amounts of
various disturbances within a watershed. For example, road density expressed in miles of road
per square mile (mi/mi2) of watershed area is a common watershed condition indicator.
Extensions of that include road density within riparian habitat conservation areas (RHCAs) or
landslide prone terrain (LSP). Other indicators include various forms of timber harvest density,
such as percent of the watershed harvested, percent of RHCAs harvested and percent of LSP
terrain harvested.
Various guidelines have been employed to rate watershed condition based on these indicators.
One local version is a matrix that rates watersheds into low, moderate or high condition based
on assembling a broad array of indicators (NOAA Fisheries, et al, 1998). Within the matrix, road
density is one criterion used to rate watershed condition. This is used as a watershed condition
indicator for this project.
INDICATOR 2 - WATER YIELD
Equivalent Clearcut Area (EGA) analysis is a tool used to index the relationship between
vegetation condition and water yield from forested watersheds. The basic assumptions of the
procedure are that removal of forest vegetation results in water yield increases and that EGA
can be used as an index of these increases. Depending on the interaction between water yield,
sediment yield, and stream channel conditions, such increases could have impacts on stream
channels.
Water yield increases can be directly modeled, but equivalent clearcut area (ECA) is often used
as a surrogate. The ECA model is designed to estimate changes in mean annual streamflow
resulting from forest practices or treatments (reading, timber harvest, and fires), which remove
or reduce vegetative cover, and is usually expressed as a percent of watershed area (Belt,
1980). The index takes into account the initial percentage of crown removal and the recovery
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
through regrowth of vegetation since the initial disturbance. For purposes of assessing effects
of this project, EGA will be used to index changes in water yield through time based on timber
harvest and reading disturbances. The EGA associated with historic wildfires is also considered
in the cumulative effects analysis.
There are a number of physical factors that determine the relationship between canopy
conditions and water yield. These include interception, evapotranspiration, shading effects and
wind flux. These factors affect the accumulation and melt rates of snow packs and how rainfall
is processed. The EGA analysis takes into account the initial percentage of crown removal and
the recovery through vegetative re-growth since the initial disturbance in the case of timber
harvest or fire. Within the habitat types being treated under this project, the time frame for
complete EGA recovery to occur is estimated to be 65 to 85 years (USDA FS, 1974).
Additional factors affecting water yield include compacted surfaces due to roads, skid trails, and
landings. Existing and new roads are considered as permanent openings in the EGA model.
Decommissioned roads are considered as openings, so the road decommissioning projects do
not contribute to reductions in EGA.
Various EGA thresholds of concern have been in use in the Northern Region since the 1960s
(Gerhardt, 2000). Early cutting guides recommended a limit of 20-30 percent EGA within a
watershed (Haupt, 1967). More recently, EGA thresholds have been rejuvenated through
consultation under the Endangered Species Act. A recent Biological Opinion stipulated that
watershed analysis should be conducted prior to actions that would increase EGA in 3rd to 5th
order priority watersheds, where EGA exceeds 15 percent (NOAA-NMFS, 1995).
Recently, concern over water yield changes relative to stream channel condition has focused on
smaller headwater catchments. Research in the nearby Horse Creek watershed study have
demonstrated instantaneous peak flow increase up to 34 percent and maximum daily flow
increases up to 87 percent, resulting from road construction and timber harvest in small
catchments (King, 1989). Recent observations have suggested that channel erosion from these
streams may be contributing to increased bedload sediment in the 3rd order receiving channel
(Gerhardt, 2002).
The studies by Belt (1980) and King (1989) have also served as field tests of the EGA
procedure. Belt concluded that the EGA procedure is a rational tool for evaluation of hydrologic
impacts of forest practices. King recommended local calibration of the model and a greater
emphasis on conditions in 1st and 2nd order headwater streams. Further disclosures of EGA
model assumptions, limitations and tests are found in Appendix E.
INDICATOR 3 - SEDIMENT YIELD
Sediment yield is defined as the movement of sediment past a point in the stream system over a
period of time. On the Nez Perce National Forest, sediment yield is generally modeled using
NEZSED, which is the Forest's adaptation of the R1R4 Sediment Yield Guidelines (Cline, et al,
1981). The model accounts for natural background sediment and activity sediment generated
from roads, timber harvest, and fire. The activity sediment is estimated from surface erosion
processes and small mass failures (less than 10 yd3). Sediment yield is commonly expressed
as tons/year or percentage over baseline. Appendix A of the Nez Perce National Forest Plan
stipulates guidelines for sediment yield and entry frequency on a subwatershed basis (USDA
FS, 1987a).
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The proposed timber harvest, road activities and watershed improvement activities could affect
sediment yield over time. Harvest and road related activities have the potential to increase
sediment production and delivery into streams. Certain watershed improvement projects have
the potential to produce sediment in the short-term (e.g. road decommissioning), but most are
des.gned to result in long-term reductions in sediment yield. Sediment yield modeling is used
as one indicator to determined trends in water quality and fish habitat conditions Effects of
,T] !! T sediment yjeld are further analyzed by applying accumulated scientific knowledge
and field observations of erosion, delivery, transport and storage processes.
NEZSED has been tested using locally collected sediment yield data (Gerhardt and King 1987
Gloss, 1995, USDA FS, 1998a, USDA FS, 2001, Thomas and King, 2004 Gerhardt 2005)'
Results of the individual tests varied, with predictions being over, under and close to observed
values. The model has a general tendency to under predict, but has been determined to be a
reasonably realistic tool for alternative assessment (Gloss, 1995, Gerhardt, 2005) The model
has limitations, including that it does not incorporate certain processes related to activity-
generated sediment yield, such as streambank erosion and mass failures greater than 10 yds3
in size. Further disclosures of NEZSED model assumptions, limitations and field tests are found
in Appendix E.
Sediment yield is of concern to water quality and fisheries in terms of suspended sediment and
turbidity. Bedload sediment is closely associated with deposition in the stream substrate
Deposition of fine sediment (less than 6 mm) can affect spawning success, winter carrying
capacity and macro invertebrate production. Deposition of coarse sediment can affect channel
morphology and fish habitat. Sediment yield is a key parameter in the South Fork Clearwater
River TMDL.
INDICATOR 4 - CHANNEL MORPHOLOGY
Water and sediment yield can interact to change channel morphology conditions through
erosion of stream channels or deposition of sediment. Channel morphology can also be
affected directly through activities such as road encroachment, stream crossings and in-channel
improvements. Sediment delivery and routing processes vary by upland settings, stream types
and disturbance level and type.
Sediment routing considers the disposition of sediment within the watershed system including
processes of erosion, deposition, storage and transport. It includes upslope and instream
components. The upslope component includes initial detachment, erosion and delivery
efficiency. The instream component includes suspended and bedload sediment yields, as well
as substrate deposition and composition. The instream component also includes consideration
of streamflow and channel morphology, both of which influence the capability of the stem to
transport or deposit sediment. A further discussion of sediment routing in relation to streams in
the project area is found in Appendix E.
INDICATOR 5 - WATER QUALITY
Water quality includes physical and chemical characteristics of water. Parameters commonly
measured include pH, alkalinity, hardness, specific conductance, nutrients, metals, sediment
and water temperature. Many of these parameters are affected only to a slight degree or not at
all, by forest practices. Water temperature controls the rate of biologic processes is of critical
concern for fish populations and is a primary indicator of habitat conditions It is also a key
parameter in the South Fork Clearwater River TMDL.
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3.2.1. AMERICAN RIVER
INTRODUCTION
The American River watershed is about 91.6 square miles in area, with about 15 percent private
land and 13 percent managed by the BLM. Major tributaries of American River include East
Fork American River, Kirks Fork and Elk Creek. American and Red Rivers join to form the
South Fork Clearwater River. From there, it is 62.5 miles to the confluence with the Middle Fork
Clearwater River. Below their confluence the South Fork and Middle Fork combine to form the
Clearwater River.
The geology, soils and landforms of the watershed are described in Section 3.1. The stream
channels in this watershed are predominately low to moderate gradient, with higher gradient
channels in the mountain uplands. Much of the mainstem has been dredged and the natural
vegetation community has been lost, but it was probably predominately a grass/sedge and
shrub meadow, interspersed with conifers. Percent of stream gradient classes by prescription
watershed are shown in Appendix E, (Table E-3).
Elevations in the American River watershed range from 3,880 feet at the confluence with Red
River to 6,847 feet at Anderson Butte. Precipitation ranges from 30 to 50 inches (University of
Idaho, 1993). Much of the precipitation falls as snow from November through March. Snowmelt
is the predominate factor leading to a spring peak in the hydrograph, which typically occurs from
mid to late May. Springtime flows are often augmented by rains. Winter peak flows are rare,
with only about 3 percent of flood peaks occurring during the period of November through March
(USDA FS, 1998a). Lowest flows typically occur during the late summer and early fall. An
annual hydrograph showing median, minimum, and maximum flows for the USGS stream gage
on the upper South Fork Clearwater River is found in Appendix E (Figure E-3). American River,
though ungaged, exhibits a similar flow regime.
BENEFICIAL USES
Under the Idaho Water Quality Standards, designated beneficial uses in American River are
cold-water communities, salmonid spawning, primary contact recreation, domestic water supply
and special resource water (IDAPA 58.01.02). No tributaries in the project area have
designated beneficial uses, but existing uses generally include cold-water communities,
salmonid spawning and secondary contact recreation.
A search of non-federal water rights applications, permits, decrees, licenses, claims and
transfers was made for areas affected by project activities. The selected areas included all
lands east of American River and downslope of the project area, as well as the mainstem of
American River from the project area to its confluence with Red River. Using these criteria, 38
private water uses were located. Since de minimus domestic claims do not require a water
right, there are likely to be more uses than identified. A summary of identified water uses
follows:
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TABLE 3.30 - NUMBER OF POTENTIALLY AFFECTED WATER USES - AMERICAN RIVER
Source Name
^^•••••••••••1
American River
A number of consumptive use claims have been filed in American River by the Nez Perce Tribe
Bureau of Land Management, and the Forest Service. In addition, instream flow claims are
being pursued for the mainstem of American River by the Nez Perce Tribe and the Forest
Service. Tribal consumptive and instream flow claims accrue from treaty rights that were
recently negotiated in a settlement under the Snake River Basin Adjudication Forest Service
instream flow claims are being pursued using the State of Idaho's process, which involves
working through the ongoing South Fork Clearwater River State Water Plan.
EXISTING CONDITION AND ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
This section discusses the environmental effects of implementing the no action and action
aKernatives. Existing conditions are described under the 'no action' alternative but future
effects of implementing no actions are also discussed. Long term trends in aquatic conditions
are discussed in Section 3.3 (Fisheries), with supporting information in Appendix E.
3.2.1.1. INDICATOR 1 - WATERSHED CONDITION
Existing watershed condition indicators were compiled for American River using corporate
databases and CIS overlays. They are summarized in the table below:
TABLE 3.31 - WATERSHED CONDITION INDICATORS
Watershed
Name
Middle American
River1
East Fork American
River1
Flint Creek
Whitaker Creek
Area
(mi2)
10.1
5.1
8.6
9.2
1.4
Road
Density
(mi/ mi)
2.0
3.0
1.0
3.1
3.9
RHCA
Road
Density
(mi/ mi2)
0.6
2.7
0.7
1.7
2.6
LSP
Roads
(miles)
0
0
0
0
0
Timber
Harvest
(% wsd
area)
11
13
6
23
27
RHCA
Harvest
(%RHCA
area)
4
5
3
13
23
LSP
Harvest
(acres)
0
0
0
0
0
Data compiled for composite watersheds, not pure watersheds
RHCA = Riparian Habitat Conservation Area
LSP = Landslide Prone Terrain
Chapter 3
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
Watershed
Name
Queen Creek
Box Sing Creek
Kirks Fork
Lower American River1
Entire American River
Area
(mi2)
1.7
1.4
9.8
6.8
91.6
Road
Density
(mi/ mi )
4.3
3.3
0.6
2.0
2.3
RHCA
Road
Density
{mi/ mi2)
3.7
3.1 _,
0.5
3.5
1.9
LSP
Roads
(miles)
0
0
0
0
0.4
Timber
Harvest
(% wsd
area)
33
16
4
NA
NA
RHCA
Harvest
(%RHCA
area)
22
8
3
NA
NA
LSP
Harvest
(acres)
0
0
0
NA
NA
Post-project road density is shown in Table 3.32 below. The changes in road density are the
result of road decommissioning.
TABLE 3.32 - POST-PROJECT ROAD DENSITY BY ALTERNATIVE
Watershed Name
Upper American River
Middle American River1
East Fork American River1
Flint Creek
Whitaker Creek
Queen Creek
Box Sing Creek
Kirks Fork
Lower
American River1
Entire American River
Area (miz)
10.1
5.1
8.6
9.2
1.4
1.7
1.4
9.8
6.8
91.6
Ait A (existing)
2.0
3.0
1.0
3.1
3.9
4.3
3.3
0.6
2.0
2.3
AltB
2.0
2.5
1.0
2.8
3.5
4.3
2.9
0.6
1.9
2.2
AltC
2.0
2.5
0.9
2.8
3.4
3.2
3.0
0.6
1.9
2.2
Alt D* | Alt E
2.0
2.5
0.9
2.8
3.4
3.0
2.9
0.6
1.9
2.2
1.9
2.2
0.8
2.1
3.4
2.7
2.7
0.6
1.9
2.1
ALTERNATIVE A- No ACTION ALTERNATIVE
Various watershed road density criteria have been used to assess watershed condition. Local
guidelines have been developed that suggest less than 1 mi/mi2 is one indicator of good
watershed condition, 1-3 mi/mi2 is moderate and greater than 3 mi/mi2 is low (NOAA Fisheries
et al, 1998). With regard to road density, of the nine project prescription watersheds in
American River, four are in the low condition category, four are moderate and one is high.
The density and distribution of roads within most of the subwatersheds indicate there is a high
probability that the hydrologic regime (i.e., timing, magnitude, duration, and spatial distribution of
runoff) is substantially altered. Road surfaces limit infiltration, which causes surface runoff
during storm events and snowmelt. Insloped roads with ditches have the greatest effect. Native
surface roads with traffic can often develop ruts, which cause runoff to be concentrated on the
road surface. Roads are also subject to surface and mass erosion. Surface erosion is the
1 Data compiled for composite watersheds, not pure watersheds
* Alt D post-project road densities are the same as Alt E when additional projects are included.
Chapter 3
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
™ r°adS ln AmedCan RiVer' Reld inventories have *entified problem
Timber harvest has affected a relatively high proportion of Queen, Whitaker and Flint Creeks
This has affected water yield and timing through reductions in forest canopy and soil
compaction from skid trails and landings. A relatively high proportion of RHCAs have been
harvested in Wh.taker and Queen Creeks. A considerable amount of timber harvest and road
construction have occurred in Lower American River on private and BLM land. Mass erosion is
a relatively minor process in American River. There is a minimal amount of past roadinq and
timber harvest on landslide prone terrain. y
ALTERNATIVES B. C. D, AND E - ACTION ALTERNATIVES
DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS
The lowest road densities result from Alternatives E, which has the most aggressive road
decommissioning package. Alternative D would result in the same road density as Alternative
E if the required and additional road decommissioning projects are all implemented Of the
action alternatives, B decommissions the least amount of road and results in the highest
remaining road density. . a
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS
Road construction history in American River was summarized from the NPNF Watershed
Database. The earliest road construction recorded in the database was dated 1890 The total
length of roads in American River recorded in the Watershed Database was 269 3 miles Road
construction history by decade is shown in Table 3.3. Timber harvest and road construction
history for American River are displayed on Map 14a.
The changes in overall road density from foreseeable actions at the scale of the American River
watershed are very slight. The BLM Eastside Township Project proposes to decommission a
small amount of existing road.
3.2.1.2. INDICATOR 2 - WATER YIELD
EGA was calculated by prescription watershed for each alternative. The calculations take into
consideration effects of harvest and temporary road construction. Road decommissioning was
not modeled as decreasing EGA even though the roads would recover vegetation over time
I he EGA analysis does not include the effects of insect and disease agents.
Table 3.33 shows the estimated peak year EGA for each alternative for each prescription
watershed in American River. Existing condition is represented by Alternative A Year 2005
represents the modeled peak activity year. EGA recovery begins the following year and occurs
gradually from then on.
Chapter 3
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
TABLE 3.33 - PERCENT (%) EGA BY ALTERNATIVE (2005)
Watershed Name
Middle American River1
East Fork American River1
Flint Creek
Whitaker Creek
Queen Creek
Box Sing Creek
Kirks Fork
Lower American River*
Area (mi2)
23.8
18.4
9.2
1.4
1.7
1.4
9.8
91.6
Alt A (existing)
3
7
8
10
13
6
2
9
AltB
4
10
10
13
17
14
4
10
AltC
4
8
8
13
18
14
4
10
AltD
4
9
12
13
18
14
6
10
AltE
4
8
10
12
15
8
2
10
ALTERNATIVE A-NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
Under this alternative, no management actions, including vegetation treatments, road
reconditioning, or temporary road construction would occur. Associated restoration activities,
such as road decommissioning, soil restoration, stream channel enhancements, and stream
crossing improvements also would not occur.
There would be no change in flow timing and quantity associated with roads because no road
decommissioning would occur. Soil compaction would continue to reduce water infiltration, so
effects to water yield would remain the same.
Watershed recovery would continue at the current rate, in the absence of a large disturbance
such as wildfire or flood. Effects to water yield from a potential fire are highly variable
depending on timing, location, size, weather, and suppression activities. Runoff timing and
quantity would reflect the magnitude of the disturbances. The risk of peak flows would depend
on the extent of the vegetation change, conditions of the soil, floodplain and channel conditions,
and weather following natural events.
ALTERNATIVES B. C. D. AND E- ACTION ALTERNATIVES
DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS
None of the action alternatives exceeds 20 percent EGA within a watershed. The highest levels
are found in Queen, Box Sing and Whitaker Creeks, respectively. These are small prescription
watersheds with channels that would be considered relatively sensitive to changes in watershed
conditions. Overall, Alternative D shows the largest increases in EGA and Alternative E shows
the smallest.
Road decommissioning and soil restoration would contribute to a reduction in compaction, thus
improving infiltration and reducing surface runoff. This effect would be most pronounced in
Alternative E (also Alternative D with required and additional improvements) and least in
Alternative B. Road miles of decommissioning and acres of soil restoration by prescription
watershed are found in Appendix D.
1 Composite watersheds were combined with upstream watersheds for EGA analysis
Chapter 3
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS
Historic analysis of EGA conditions in American River since 1870 was conducted in the South
Fork Clearwater River Landscape Assessment (USDA FS, 1998a) and updated for this analysis
Figure 3.1 below shows the results of those analyses.
FIGURE 3.1 -AMERICAN RIVER EGA 1870-2004
o
LLI
50.0
40.0
30.0
20.0
10.0
0.0
\
1870
1890
1910
1930
1950
1970
1111ii111111111111111111
1990
The peaks in EGA prior to 1950 were caused by wildfires totaling about 59,200 acres
/of °-S Qe f'reS occurred in 1878 (2'743 ac): 1889 (21,281 ac); 1910 (10,793 ac); and 1919
(24, 266 ac). Roads recorded as being constructed prior to 1950 also contributed to a small
extent. Timber harvest related to mining and homesteading also occurred prior to 1950 but is
not quantified in the EGA analysis. The EGA starts at zero in 1870, but this is an artifact created
by the beginning of the fire history records. Fire history prior to 1870 is unquantified, though
residual EGA from earlier fires likely existed. EGA increases after 1950 are associated with road
construction and timber harvest on federal, state and private lands.
Figure 3.1 indicates that EGA levels resulting from wildfires prior to 1950 were considerably
larger than those resulting from timber harvest. This is understandable, given the large extent
of these fires, which tended to be stand-replacing.
Forest records were queried to determine historic timber harvest in American River. Most of the
larger timber sales also included road construction. From the NPNF Watershed Database total
recorded timber harvest in the 1950s was 142 acres; 1960s was 2,687 acres- 1970s was 2 591
acres; 1980s was 1,977 acres; 1990s was 5,168 acres; and 2000s to date has been 809 acres
The watershed database includes activities on private lands within American River Timber
harvest occurred prior to the 1950s, associated with mining and homesteading activities This is
undocumented. The NPNF Timber Stand Database (TSMRS) was queried to determine harvest
area associated with named timber sales. Table 3.xx shows the results of that query for timber
sales greater than 100 acres in size. The effects of these individual, named timber sales are
reflected in the EGA values since 1950 in Figure 3.1
The only additional foreseeable action affecting EGA in American River is the BLM's Eastside
Township project. Preliminary EGA calculations were provided by the BLM for the proposed
action. These are reflected in Table 3.34 and Figure 3.2 below. Only those watersheds
containing both proposed Forest Service and BLM activities are shown.
Chapter 3
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
TABLE 3.34 - PERCENT (%) EGA FOR 2005 (INCLUDING EASTSIDE TOWNSHIP PROJECT)
Watershed Name 1 Area (mi2)
Middle American
River1
East Fork American
River*
Whitaker Creek
Queen Creek
Box Sing Creek
Kirks Fork
Lower
American River*
23.8
18.4
1.4
1.7
1.4
9.8
91.6
Alt A (existing)
3
7
10
13
6
2
9
AltB
5
10
23
18
14
4
11
AltC
5
8
23
19
14
4
11
AltD
6
9
23
19
14
6
12
AltE
4
8
22
16
8
3
10
FIGURE 3.2: AMERICAN RIVER EGA 2000-2012
12.0
^N c
-------
American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
3.2.1.3. INDICATOR 3 - SEDIMENT YIELD
This section compares the existing condition to the action alternatives for effects on sediment
"•" The indicator used for sediment yield is tons per year, expressed as a percent over
r"\ O O £i I I 1"^ r~» O f\s4tW* n n4- \ r\ n U P1! _._._.! I'll .. *
yield.
--j.,...,,! u !• -1- t • , , .,--•- •- ^~. JT~.-M, b/vpiVsOOGU 00 0 pCI^CIIl UVtM
natural baseline sediment yield. Base or natural yield represents the tons of sediment that are
produced and subsequently transported out of the subwatershed each year under natural
conditions. The existing sediment yield over base represents activity generated tons of
sediment transported annually produced by previous activities or disturbances such as roads
timber harvest and fire.
Sediment yield was modeled for each prescription watershed. The primary sediment producing
activities modeled include temporary road construction, road reconstruction road
decommissioning and timber harvest. Effects were modeled for a 10-year period (2003 - 2012
assuming project activities will begin in 2005). Activities occurring throughout the lifetime of the
project are modeled as occurring all in 2005. Modeling was done on a peak year basis in order
to meet the assumptions under which Appendix A of the Nez Perce Forest Plan was developed.
Table 3.35 shows the estimated sediment yield over base for each alternative for each
prescription watershed in American River. Year 2003 represents the existing condition 2005
represents the modeled peak activity year and 2012 represents the conditions at the end'of the
modeled period, when sediment yield from new activities is assumed to have ceased or
stabilized. Figure 3.3 is a time trend graph of sediment yield over base for Lower American
River. Similar graphs for the remaining analysis points are found in Appendix E.
TABLE 3.35 - PERCENT (%) OVER BASE SEDIMENT YIELD BY ALTERNATIVE
Name
Middle American
River2
East Fork
American River2
Flint Creek
t
Whitaker Creek
(mi2)
23.8
18.4
9.2
1.4
Year
2003
2005
2012
2003
2005
2012
2003
2005
2012
2003
2005
2012
Alt A
(existing)
13
12
12
12
12
12
15
15
15
66
31
31
AltB
13
13
12
12
14
11
15
19
14
66
38
30
AltC
13
13
12
12
13
11
15
23
13
66
39
30
AltD1
13/13
14/14
12/11
12/12
17/17
10/9
15/15
23/23
12/11
66/66
38/36
30/30
AltE
13
13
11
12
14
9
15
20
11
66
35
30
First figure includes required watershed improvement projects only; second figure includes required and additional
watershed improvement projects
2
Composite watersheds were combined with upstream watersheds for sediment yield analysis
Chapter 3
Page 110
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
Watershed
Name
Queen Creek
Box Sing Creek
Kirks Fork
Lower
American River2
Area
(mi2)
1.7
1.4
9.8
91.6
Year
2003
2005
2012
2003
2005
2012
2003
2005
2012
2003
2005
2012
Alt A
(existing)
37
37
37
21
21
21
5
5
5
16
15
15
AltB
37
40
37
21
34
19
5
8
5
16
16
15
AltC
37
54
32
21
37
19
5
10
5
16
17
14
AltD1
37/37
57/58
32/31
21/21
34/34
19/19
5/5
9/9
5/5
16/16
17/17
14/14
AltE
37
41
30
21
26
19
5
6
5
' , -
16
16
14
FIGURE 3.3: LOWER AMERICAN RIVER SEDIMENT YIELD
Lower American
2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012
Forest Guidelines
alt a
alt b
alt c
ait d
alt e
Ai TERN A TIVE A-NO A CTION AL TERN A TIVE
Existing sediment yields in 2005 are all 15 percent over base or less, with the exception of
Whitaker, Queen and Box Sing Creeks. Activity on private land resulted in a significant
modeled sediment yield peak in Whitaker Creek in 2003.
Chapter 3
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
ALTERNATIVES A. B. C, D, AND E - ACTION ALTERNATIVES
DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS
Sediment yield from the action alternatives that is modeled results from temporary roads road
reconstruction, road decommissioning and timber harvest. Activities that produce sediment
yield that are not modeled include road maintenance, elevated road use, stream crossing
improvements, mstream improvement and post-harvest fire. Some sediment yield increase
could occur from the channel system related to increased water yields. This is also not
modeled.
Sediment yields in the peak activity year of 2005 all stay below Forest Plan sediment yield
guidelines. Entry frequency guidelines are also met with this action. Peak year sediment yield
in most watersheds is highest under Alternative D. Peak year sediment yield is lowest in either
Alternative B or E, depending on the watershed. In most cases, the chronic sediment yield over
base is lower in 2012 than in pre-project conditions. This reflects the effect of decommissioning
and improvements on existing roads. The decreases in chronic sediment yield are greatest
under Alternative D, if both the required and additional improvement projects are implemented
and Alternative E.
No adjustment was made in modeled sediment yield for increased traffic associated with project
activities. The sediment mitigation values applied to roads in the model incorporate traffic level
to a general degree. Of the 43 miles of designated log haul routes in American River about 6
miles are located in streamside areas. It is acknowledged that some additional sediment yield
will likely occur due to traffic increases (Bonn and Graves, 2005). This will be mitigated through
road maintenance, rock surfacing where needed and contract provisions to minimize resource
damage during wet periods.
Instream activities will also result in sediment yield increases that are not modeled. In American
River, this is associated with stream crossing improvements, since no new road crossings or
instream habitat improvements are planned. Removing or replacing culverts is expected to
have short term impacts on sediment yield below the crossing sites. Recent studies in Horse
Creek suggest that these impacts are large immediately below culvert removal sites but
decrease substantially with downstream distance. The Idaho turbidity criterion of not to exceed
50 ntu above background was exceeded just downstream of the sites, but not at the mouths of
the small study catchments (Foltz and Yanosek, 2005).
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS
Historic analysis of sediment yield in American River since 1870 was conducted in the South
Fork Clearwater River Landscape Assessment (USDA FS, 1998a) and updated for this analysis
Figure 3.4 below shows the results of those analyses.
Chapter 3
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
FIGURE 3.4: AMERICAN RIVER SEDIMENT YIELD 1870-2004
I 30
TI rrn'TTTTri'i'TTi i rn rri 11
1870 1880 1890
n'TTTTTTTTTI Tl
1900 1910
1920 1930 1940 1950 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000
The peaks in sediment yield prior to 1950 are the result of the same wildfires discussed above
under EGA cumulative effects. The fire peaks associated with the 1889 and 1919 wildfires
appear to be somewhat larger than peaks associated with later roads and timber harvest.
Sediment yield associated with fire is assumed to recover relatively quickly, whereas roads tend
to produce a level of long term, chronic sediment yield.
The sediment yield peaks associated with road construction prior to 1980 are likely
underestimated, since the road sediment mitigation values reflect current conditions, rather than
practices which were in effect at the time of construction. Although roads were built in the
watershed prior to 1940, the sediment yield effects of these roads are not displayed until 1940.
Sediment yield peaks associated with historic mining activities are not reflected in Figure 3.4
and likely exceeded those associated with'other activities.
Table 3.36 shows percent over base sediment yield by alternative. Figure 3.5 shows the
percent over base sediment yield for Lower American River. These include effects of past
activities on private, BLM and NFS lands, with the inclusion of BLM's foreseeable Eastside
Township Project.
Chapter 3
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
TABLE 3.36 - PERCENT (%) OVER BASE SEDIMENT YIELD (INCLUDING EASTSIDE TOWNSHIP PROJECT)
Name
Middle American
River1
East Fork
American River1
Flint Creek
Whitaker Creek
Queen Creek
Box Sing Creek
Kirks Fork
Lower
American River1
(mi2)
23.8
18.4
9.2
1.4
1.7
1.4
9.8
91.6
Year
2003
2005
2012
2003
2005
2012
2003
2005
2012
2003
2005
2012
2003
2005
2012
2003
2005
2012
2003
2005
2012
2003
2005
2012
Alt A
(existing)
13
12
12
12
12
12
15
15
15
66
31
31
37
37
37
21
21
21
5
5
5
16
15
15
AltB
13
19
12
12
14
11
15
19
14
66
72
31
37
60
36
21
60
17
5
8
5
16
24
14
AHC
13
20
12
12
17
11
15
23
13
66
73
31
37
74
31
21
62
17
5
10
5
16
25
14
AltO*
13/13
20/20
12/11
12/12
17/17
11/9
15/15
23/23
12/11
66/66
72/72
30/30
37/37
77/78
31/29
21/21
60/60
17/17
5/5
9/8
5/5
16/16
24/25
14/14
AltE
13
20
11
12
15
15
21
11
66
70
30
37
61
21
52
17
5
6
16
24
14
When the Eastside Township and American and Crooked Projects are combined, the larger
watersheds of Middle American, East Fork American and Lower American all remain below 30
percent over base in the peak year under all alternatives. Whitaker and Queen Creeks exceed
the Forest Plan and BLM Forest Plan guidelines of not to exceed 60 percent over base under
most alternatives. Box Sing Creek reaches that guideline, with the exception of Alternative E,
Composite watersheds were combined with upstream watersheds for sediment yield analysis
* First figure includes required watershed improvement projects only; second figure includes required and additional
watershed improvement projects
Chapter 3
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
where it remains below. Most watersheds show a reduction in long term chronic sediment yield,
resulting from the watershed improvement projects.
FIGURE 3.5: AMERICAN RIVER SEDIMENT YIELD 2000-2012
- No Action American Crooked American Crooked + Eastside Township
Figure 3.5 shows the trend of sediment yield for Lower American River of Alternative D from the
American and Crooked Project and the Proposed Action of the Eastside Township Project. The
effects of harvest on private lands can be seen in 2000, followed by the modeled project peaks
in 2005. A slight long term reduction in sediment yield is indicated as a result of watershed
improvements.
Historic and current sediment yield have also occurred from activities not modeled in NEZSED.
In American River, these include grazing, mining, and residential and commercial development.
Grazing by domestic stock probably preceded European settlement, but was increased with the
onset of the mining era. This has mostly affected the lower elevation meadows in American
River and Elk Creek. The primary influence op sediment yield has probably been through
streambank disturbance, resulting in greater bank erosion.
Mining occurred in both upland and riparian areas. Sediment yield from upland placer mining
has recovered to a large extent. Instream dredge mining caused large amounts of sediment
yield during the active mining period. Some residual sediment yield from dredge mining is likely
still occurring due to destabilized streambank.
Residential and commercial development has occurred within the Elk City Township. Most of
the roads associated with this development have been modeled, but the excavations for building
pads, driveways, etc., have not.
There have also been watershed and riparian improvement projects in American River that have
served to reduce sediment yield. These have included erosion control on existing roads,
riparian fencing, stream stabilization and mine site stabilization projects.
Chapter 3
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
3.2.1.4. INDICATOR 4 - CHANNEL MORPHOLOGY
ALTERNATIVE A- NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
Headwaters stream surveys and reconnaissance fish habitat surveys were conducted in project
area watersheds in 2003. The results of these surveys are found in the American and Crooked
River project file.
Channel gradients for subwatersheds in American River are found in Appendix E, Table E-3
Following those tables is a general discussion of erosion, sediment transport arid sediment
deposition processes. Channel morphology in project subwatersheds has been altered through
three primary processes: sediment deposition, channel encroachment and dredge mining.
Sediment deposition has occurred in areas subjected to significant development activity
including reading and other development. Channel encroachment has occurred where roads'
and other activities have taken place adjacent to streams and their floodplains. The highest
road densities in riparian areas are found in the Middle American, Whitaker, Queen, Box Sing
and Lower American subwatersheds. Dredge mining has occurred primarily along American
River and in the lower ends of its tributaries. Implementation of Alternative A would leave these
conditions unchanged.
ALTERNATIVES B. C. D. AND E - ACTION ALTERNATIVES
DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS
The action alternatives are expected to have relatively little effect on channel morphology.
Generally, the EGA and sediment yield estimates are at levels where little channel erosion or
deposition is anticipated. The highest estimated sediment yields are in Queen Creek in
Alternatives C and D. The FISHSED analysis found in Section 3.3 (Fisheries) elaborates further
on these effects.
There are no new stream crossings on temporary roads. Several stream crossing
improvements should improve channel morphology conditions in their immediate vicinity. These
improvements are site-specific. In the case of culvert replacements, the improvements often
result from less backwatering upstream of the site and less scour downstream. Similar
improvements occur where culverts are removed, with the additional benefit of enhanced
floodplain function through the crossing site. Some of the road decommissioning involves
crossings and riparian areas. Channel morphology should be improved in those areas.
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS
Historically, the greatest impact to channel morphology in American River was caused by
dredge mining. Encroachment of roads in riparian areas and floodplains also had a direct effect
on channel morphology. Both of these impacts occurred largely downstream of the National
Forest boundary.
The addition of the BLM's Eastside Township Project and independent aquatic restoration
projects will have beneficial effects on channel morphology in American River. This will occur
due to the replacement of the inadequate culvert at the mouth of East Fork American River,
riparian restoration and reconnection of tributary channels.
Chapter 3
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
3.2.1.5. INDICATOR 5 - WATER QUALITY
ALTERNATIVE A - No ACTION ALTERNATIVE
Water temperature was recorded at several locations in the American River watershed during
the summer of 2003. These sites were American River at the Forest boundary, East Fork
American River, Flint Creek, Queen Creek, Kirks Fork and American River at the mouth. These
data are shown in Appendix E. The data show a considerable variation across the watershed.
Violations of the Idaho salmonid spawning criterion of not-to-exceed 13° C were noted at all
sites at certain times. Violations of the Idaho cold water communities of not-to-exceed 22° C
were noted at American River at the Forest Boundary and at the mouth. Violations of the EPA
bull trout criterion of not-to-exceed 10° C (as a 7-day average of daily maximums) were noted at
all sites. Some basic metrics from the 2003 data are shown in Table 3.37 below. As evidenced
in the 1993-2004 South Fork Clearwater River water temperature data (Table 3.37), 2003 was
one of the warmest years since 1993.
TABLE 3.37: SUMMARY OF 2003 WATER TEMPERATURE DATA
STREAM NAME/SITE
American River at Forest Boundary
East Fork American River
Flint Creek
Queen Creek
Kirks Fork
American River near mouth
Number of Days > 20°C
31
0
0
0
7
46
Maximum Instantaneous (°C)
22.9
17.5
19.8
17.0
20.6
25.6
Under the 'no action' alternative, insect and disease agents may tend to reduce shade over time
in some riparian stands. Fire could also reduce shade. Shade in dredge-mined reaches would
tend to increase very slowly over time as these areas are naturally recolonized by riparian
vegetation. These reaches are mostly outside the project area.
A number of water quality parameters were sampled at stream sites in American River during
the period 1977-1981. Summaries of data for pH, conductivity and hardness for Upper
American River, Flint Creek and Lower American River are found in Table E.6. These data
show that pH is near neutral to slightly acidic, which is considered normal for area streams.
Conductivity and alkalinity are both relatively low, indicating relatively low amounts of dissolved
constituents and also relatively low biological productivity.
ALTERNATIVES B. C. D, AND E - ACTION ALTERNATIVES
DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS
All alternatives are designed to minimize effects on streamside shade. Timber harvest and
temporary road construction will not occur in Riparian Habitat Conservation Areas (RHCAs).
Under all action alternatives, insect and disease agents may tend to reduce shade over time in
some riparian stands. Fire could also reduce shade. There may be some incidental shade
reductions at stream crossing improvement sites. An example would be if some roadside
vegetation was removed during replacement of an existing culvert. This approach is expected
to be in compliance with the South Fork Clearwater River water temperature TMDL. Beyond
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
sediment yield described above, there would be little change in most water quality parameters
Beneficial uses would be protected in all alternatives.
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS
Historically, the greatest impact to water quality in the American River watershed was caused by
the impact of dredge mining and the encroachment of roads on the stream channels This
resulted in a loss of riparian vegetation and shade along the mainstem of Crooked River with a
presumed increase in water temperature as a result. Heavy metals present in the valley'bottom
materials were also mobilized. There was likely some introduction of mercury, since it was often
used as an amalgam in the gold mining process. Grazing has also altered streamside shade
and stream bank stability. Sediment yield was increased as a result of road construction timber
harvest, fire and residential and commercial development.
There is expected to be little change in streamside shade as a result of the foreseeable project
(Eastside Township) in American River. Sediment yield effects from this project are disclosed
above. Residential and commercial development can be expected to continue in the Elk City
Township, with some effect to water quality, primarily through increase sediment yields.
IRREVERSIBLE OR IRRETRIEVABLE EFFECTS (ALL INDICATORS!
There are no effects to watershed resources in American River from this project that are
considered to be fully irreversible or irretrievable. Construction and obliteration of temporary
roads will leave some residual effects in terms of soil conditions and interruption of groundwater
flow paths. Sediment delivered to low gradient stream reaches tends to have a long residence
time, but eventually will be transported or reorganized by high stream flows. No long term
geomorphic changes in stream channels are predicted from project activities.
3.2.2. CROOKED RIVER
INTRODUCTION
The Crooked River watershed is 71.3 square miles in area, with about 1 percent private land
and 1 percent managed by the BLM. The East and West Forks of Crooked River form the
mainstem near the old Orogrande town site. From there, Crooked River flows approximately 12
miles to its mouth. Crooked River joins the South Fork Clearwater River at River Mile 59.5.
The geology, soils and landforms of the watershed are described in Section 3.1. - Soils.
Mainstem Crooked River is mostly contained in an alluvial valley, with breaklands in the lower
reaches and mountain uplands in the upper portions. The West and East Forks start at the
headwaters with V-shaped valley bottoms and have short reaches of trough-shaped valleys
before they flatten out just before they join. The remaining twelve miles of the mainstem flow
through a low gradient flat-bottom valley, with the exception of a more confined reach about
three miles long, commonly known as The Narrows. Much of the mainstem has been dredged
and the natural vegetation community has been lost, but it was probably predominately a
grass/sedge and shrub meadow, interspersed with conifers. Percent of stream gradient classes
by prescription watershed are shown in Appendix E, Table E.4.
Elevations in the watershed range from 3,825 feet at the mouth to 8,127 feet on the ridge above
Rainbow Lake. The climate and hydrograph of Crooked River are similar to American River,
with some minor variations. The headwaters of Crooked River are higher in elevation and have
a northerly aspect. This tends to retard snowmelt from the upper watershed and contributes to
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
later streamflows and cooler water temperatures. An annual hydrograph showing median,
minimum, and maximum flows for the USGS stream gage on the upper South Fork Clearwater
River is found in Appendix E (Figure E-3). Crooked River, though ungaged, exhibits a similar
flow regime.
EXISTING BENEFICIAL USES
Under the Idaho Water Quality Standards, the designated beneficial uses in Crooked River are
cold-water communities, salmonid spawning and secondary contact recreation (IDAPA
58.01.02). No tributaries in the project area have designated beneficial uses, but existing uses
generally include cold-water communities, salmonid spawning and secondary contact
recreation.
A search of non-federal water rights applications, permits, decrees, licenses, claims and
transfers was made for areas affected by project activities. The selected areas included all
lands within Crooked River that are downslope or downstream of the project area. Using these
criteria, seven private and State water uses were located. Since de minimus domestic claims
do not require a water right, there are likely to be more uses than identified. A summary of
identified water uses follows:
TABLE 3.38 - NUMBER OF POTENTIALLY AFFECTED WATER USES - CROOKED RIVER
Source Name
Crooked River
Quartz Creek
Mary Ann Creek
Unnamed Stream
Spring
Domestic/Stock
1
Domestic
1
1
Industrial
1
1
Fish Propagation
2
A number of consumptive use and instream flow claims have been filed in Crooked River by the
Nez Perce Tribe and the Forest Service. Tribal consumptive and instream flow claims accrue
from treaty rights that were recently negotiated in a settlement under the Snake River Basin
Adjudication. Forest Service instream flow claims are being pursued using the State of Idaho's
process, which involves working through the ongoing South Fork Clearwater River State Water
Plan.
EXISTING CONDITION AND ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
This section discusses the environmental effects of implementing the no action and action
alternatives. Existing conditions are described under the 'no action' alternative, but future
effects of implementing no actions are also discussed. Long term trends in aquatic conditions
are discussed in Section 3.3 (Fisheries), with supporting information in Appendix E.
3.2.2.1. INDICATOR 1 - WATERSHED CONDITION
Existing watershed condition indicators were compiled for Crooked River using corporate
databases and CIS overlays. They are summarized in the table below:
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TABLE 3.39 - WATERSHED CONDITION INDICATORS
Watershed
Name
Middle Crooked River1
Relief Creek
Lower Crooked River*
Entire Crooked River
Area
(mi2)
22.6
11.7
14.8
71.3
Road
Density
(mi/
mi2)
1.8
3.3
3.2
1.9
RHCA
Road
Density
(mi/
mi2)
1.9
2.9
3.3
2.1
LSP
Roads
(miles)
1.8
0.9
4.5
8.5
Timber
Harvest
(% wsd
area)
10
30
18
12
RHCA
Harvest
(%RHCA
area)
6
21
8
7
LSP
Harvest
(acres)
69
57
40
166
RHCA = Riparian Habitat Conservation Area
LSP = Landslide Prone Terrain
ALTERNATIVE A-NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
Various watershed road density criteria have been used to assess watershed condition. Local
guidelines have been developed that suggest less than 1 mi/mi2 is one indicator of good
watershed condition, 1-3 mi/mi2 is moderate and greater than 3 mi/mi2 is low (NOAA Fisheries
et al, 1998). Road densities are highest in Relief Creek and Lower Crooked River, with both
exceeding 3 mi/mi2. There are considerable amounts of road in RHCAs in all three project
prescription watersheds. The county road along Crooked River is located almost entirely within
the RHCA. There are also more existing roads and timber harvest on landslide prone terrain in
Crooked River than in American River, though landslide prone terrain comprises a relatively
small proportion of Crooked River compared to areas of steeper landscapes lower in the South
Fork Clearwater subbasin.
TABLE 3.40 - POST-PROJECT ROAD DENSITY BY ALTERNATIVE
WATERSHED NAME
Middle Crooked River*'
Relief Creek
Lower Crooked River*
Entire Crooked River
Area (mi2)
22.6
11.7
14.8
71.3
Alt A (existing)
1.8
3.3
3.2
1.9
AltB
1.7
2.9
3.1
1.8
AitC
1.6
2.9
3.1
1.8
AltD**
1.6
2.9
3.1
1.8
AltE
1.6
2.6
3.0
1.7
ALTERNATIVES B. C. D. AND E- ACTION ALTERNATIVES
DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS
The lowest road densities result from Alternative E, which has the most aggressive road
decommissioning package. Alternative D would result in the same road density as Alternative
E, if the required and additional road decommissioning projects are all implemented. Of the
Data compiled for composite watersheds, not pure watersheds
* Data compiled for composite watersheds, not pure watersheds
** Alt D post-project road densities are the same as Alt E when additional projects are included.
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
action alternatives, Alternative B decommissions the least amount of road and results in the
highest remaining road density.
CUMULA TIVE EFFECTS
Road construction history in Crooked River was summarized from the NPNF Watershed
Database. The earliest road construction recorded in the database was dated 1890. The total
length of roads in Crooked River recorded in the Watershed Database was 150.4 miles. Road
construction history by decade for Crooked River is shown in Table 3.x. Timber harvest and
road construction history for Crooked River are displayed on Map 14b.
The changes in overall road density at the scale of the Crooked River watershed are very slight.
The BLM Whiskey South Project decommissions no additional existing roads in Crooked River.
3.2.2.2. INDICATOR 2 - WATER YIELD
EGA was calculated by prescription watershed for each alternative. The calculations take into
consideration effects of harvest and temporary road construction. Road decommissioning was
not modeled as decreasing EGA even though the roads would recover vegetation over time.
The EGA analysis does not include the effects of insect and disease agents.
Table 3.41 shows the estimated per year EGA for each alternative for each prescription
watershed in Crooked River. Existing condition is represented by Alternative A. Year 2005
represents the modeled peak activity year. EGA recovery begins the following year and occurs
gradually from then on.
TABLE 3.41 - PERCENT (%) EGA BY ALTERNATIVE (2005)
WATERSHED NAME
Middle Crooked River1
Quartz Creek
Silver Creek
Relief Creek
Lower Crooked River1
Area (mi2)
44.8
4.1
4.2
11.7
71.3
Alt A (existing)
2
2
8
8
5
AltB
5
8
23
13
8
AltC
5
8
24
14
8
AltD
5
8
26
15
8
AltE
4
6
21
12
7
ALTERNATIVE A-NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
Existing EGA is highest in Silver and Relief Creeks and lowest in Middle Crooked River. In all
cases, the existing EGA is below 15 percent of the watershed area. Under this alternative, no
management actions, including vegetation treatments, road reconditioning, or temporary road
construction would occur. Associated restoration activities, such as road decommissioning, soil
restoration, stream channel enhancements, and stream crossing improvements also would not
occur. There would be no change in flow timing and quantity associated with roads because no
road decommissioning would occur. Soil compaction would continue to reduce water infiltration,
so effects to water yield would remain the same.
1 Composite watersheds were combined with upstream watersheds for EGA analysis.
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
Watershed recovery would continue at the current rate, in the absence of a large disturbance
such as wildfire or flood. Effects to water yield from a potential fire are highly variable
depending on timing, location, size, weather, and suppression activities. Runoff timing and
quantity would reflect the magnitude of the disturbances. The risk of peak flow would depend
on the extent of the vegetation change, conditions of the soil, floodplain and channel condition
and weather following natural events.
ALTERNATIVES B. C. D, AND E- ACTION ALTERNATIVES
DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS
Among Forest Plan prescription watersheds, the highest EGA levels are found in Relief Creek.
Though not Forest Plan prescription watersheds, Silver and Quartz Creeks were also evaluated
separately. Overall, Alternative D shows the largest increases in EGA and Alternative E shows
the smallest. With the exception of Silver Creek, none of the action alternatives exceeds 20
percent EGA within a watershed. The levels in Silver Creek are within general thresholds of
concern of not to exceed 20 to 30 percent. Channel stability in Silver Creek and tributaries was
rated fair to good, with some areas of bedload movement and bank undercutting noted during
stream surveys. Water yield increases may result in some intensification of these conditions.
Road decommissioning and soil restoration would contribute to a reduction in compaction, thus
improving infiltration and reducing surface runoff. This effect would be most pronounced in
Alternative E (also Alternative D with required and additional improvements) and least in
Alternative B. Road miles of decommissioning and acres of soil restoration by prescription
watershed are found in Appendix D.
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS
Historic analysis of EGA conditions in Crooked River since 1870 was conducted in the South
Fork Clearwater River Landscape Assessment (USDA FS, 1998) and updated for this analysis.
Figure 3.6 below shows the results of those analyses:
FIGURE 3.6 - CROOKED RIVER EGA 1870-2004
50.0
40.0
30.0
20.0
10.0
1870
1890
1910
1930
1950
1970
The peaks in EGA prior to 1950 were caused by wildfires totaling about 13,000 acres.
Recorded large fires occurred in 1878 (1,203 ac); 1889 (5,971 ac); 1903 (430 ac); 1917 (27 ac);
1921 (213 ac); 1924 (59 ac); and 1945 (5117 ac). Roads recorded as being constructed prior to
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
1950 also contributed to a small extent. Timber harvest related to mining and homesteading
also occurred prior to 1950, but is not quantified in the EGA analysis. The EGA starts at zero in
1870, but this is an artifact created by the beginning of the fire history records. Fire history prior
to 1870 is unquantified, though residual EGA from earlier fires likely existed. EGA increases
after 1950 are associated with road construction and timber harvest, primarily on federal lands.
Figure 3.6 indicates that EGA levels resulting from wildfires prior to 1950 were similar to those
resulting from timber harvest. The fires in Crooked River were of similar total area! extent to the
timber harvests, which occurred from the 1960s through the 1990s. The fires tend to be
contiguous, whereas the timber harvests are scattered through the roaded areas of the
watershed.
Forest records were queried to determine historic timber harvest in Crooked River. Most of the
larger timber sales also included road construction. From the NPNF Watershed Database, total
recorded timber harvest in the 1960s was 123 acres, 1970s was 2,292 acres, 1980s was 2,671
acres, 1990s was 9000 acres and none has occurred in the 2000s to date. Timber harvest
occurred prior to the 1950s, associated with mining and homesteading activities. This is
undocumented. Most of the larger timber sales also included road construction. No recorded
timber harvest occurred in the 1950s. The NPNF Timber Stand Database (TSMRS) was
queried to determine harvest area associated with named timber sales. Table 3.42 shows the
results of that query, for timber sales greater than 100 acres in size. The effects of these
individual, named timber sales are reflected in the EGA values since 1950 in Figure 3.6.
The BLM's ongoing Whiskey South Project includes timber harvest, temporary road construction
and prescribed fire treatments in Lower Crooked River. These activities were evaluated for
peak year EGA and the results are combined with those of the American/Crooked Project in
Table 3.41 below:
TABLE 3.42 - PERCENT (%) EGA FOR 2005 (INCLUDING WHISKEY SOUTH PROJECT)
WATERSHED NAME
Lower Crooked River1
Area (mi2)
71.3
Alt A (existing)
5
AltB 1 AltC
8 1 8
AltD 1 AltE
9 [ 8
Composite watersheds were combined with upstream watersheds for EGA analysis
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
FIGURE 3.7: CROOKED RIVER EGA 2000-2012
12.0
10.0
0.0
2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012
- No Action
Whiskey South
• American Crooked + Whiskey South
The addition of 243 acres of EGA from the Whiskey South Project increased the 2005 Lower
Crooked River EGA by 1 percent in Alternative D and E. There was no change in Alternative B
or C, once the EGA was rounded to the nearest full percent.
3.2.2.3. INDICATOR 3 - SEDIMENT YIELD
Table 3.42 shows the estimated sediment yield over base for each alternative for each
prescription watershed in Crooked River. Year 2003 represents the existing condition, 2005
represents the modeled peak activity year and 2012 represents the conditions at the end of the
modeled period, when annual sediment yield from all activities has ceased or stabilized. Figure
3.8 is a time trend graph of sediment yield over base for Lower Crooked River. Similar graphs
for the remaining analysis points are found in Appendix E.
TABLE 3.43 - ESTIMATED SEDIMENT YIELD OVER BASE FOR EACH ALTERNATIVE BY PRESCRIPTION
WATERSHED IN CROOKED RIVER
| Watershed Name
Middle Crooked
River2
Quartz Creek
Silver Creek
Area (mi2)
44.8
4.1
4.2
Year
2003
2005
2012
2003
2005
2012
2003
2005
2012
Alt A (existing)
5
5
5
7
7
7
18
18
18
AltB
5
7
5
7
15
7
18
40
17
AltC
5
8
4
7
15
7
18
41
12
AltD1
5/5
7/7
4/4
111
15/15
111
18/18
42/43
12/12
AltE
5
7
4
7
13
7
18
38
12
First figure includes required watershed improvement projects only; second figure includes required and additional
watershed improvement projects
2 Composite watersheds were combined with upstream watersheds for sediment yield analysis.
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
Watershed Name
Relief Creek
Lower Crooked
River2
Area (mi2)
11.7
71.3
Year
2003
2005
2012
2003
2005
2012
Alt A (existing)
17
17
17
9
9
9
AltB
17
24
15
9
12
8
AitC
17
27
15
9
13
8
AltD1
17/17
28/28
15/14
9/9
13/13
8/8
AltE
17
23
14
9
12
8
Figure 3.8: Lower Crooked River Sediment Yield
oc <-\n
on on
ft oc nn
QJ
on nn
V
5 -ic nn
«S in nn
*s nn
Onn
• Forej
Lower Crooked River
,^**^_^
• mr^^^^M • • • • • •
2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012
st Guidelines — • — alt a — * — alt b x alt c — * — alt d — • — alt e
ALTERNATIVE A-NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
The highest existing sediment yields are in Silver and Relief Creek. Middle Crooked River has
the lowest existing sediment yield
ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, AND E - ACTION ALTERNATIVES
DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS
Sediment yield from the action alternatives that is modeled results from temporary roads, road
reconstruction, road decommissioning and timber harvest. Activities that produce sediment
yield that are not modeled include road maintenance, elevated road use, stream crossing
improvements, ins.tream improvement and post-harvest fire. Some sediment yield increase
could occur from the channel system related to increased water yields. This is also not
modeled.
All peak year sediment yield increases fall below the Forest Plan sediment yield guideline of 30
percent over base. Entry frequency guidelines are also met with this action (see below under
cumulative effects). Silver and Quartz Creeks are not Forest Plan prescription watershed and
therefore do not have established sediment yield guidelines. Given their channel types and
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
beneficial uses, these guidelines would likely be set at not to exceed 45 percent over base. All
of the alternatives fall below that level.
No adjustment was made in modeled sediment yield for increased traffic associated with project
activities. The sediment mitigation values applied to roads in the model incorporate traffic level
to a general degree. Of the 60 miles of designated log haul routes in Crooked River, about 7
miles are located in streamside areas. It is acknowledged that some additional sediment yield
will likely occur due to traffic increases (Bonn and Graves, 2005). This will be mitigated through
road maintenance, rock surfacing where needed and contract provisions to minimize resource
damage during wet periods.
Instream activities will also result in sediment yield increases that are not modeled. In Crooked
River, this is associated with stream crossing improvements and instream habitat
improvements, since no new road crossings or instream habitat improvements are planned.
Removing or replacing culverts is expected to have short term impacts on sediment yield below
the crossing sites. Recent studies in Horse Creek suggest that these impacts are large
immediately below culvert removal sites, but decrease substantially with downstream distance.
The Idaho turbidity criterion of not to exceed 50 ntu above background was exceeded just
downstream of the sites, but not at the mouths of the small study catchments (Foltz and
Yanosek, 2005).
Instream habitat improvements will mobilize sediment stored in the affected channels. The
effect on sediment yield is expected to be short term, largely occurring during active
construction phases. Turbidity sampling conducted during instream structure maintenance in
Ohara Creek showed no Idaho turbidity criterion exceedences below the mixing zone (Nielsen-
Gerhardt, 2003). Instream improvement work conducted in Red River during the period 1997-
2000 showed that the turbidity criterion was exceeded when in-channel work was done with
inadequate contingency planning. Similar levels of instream work, with adherence to sediment
and erosion practices, resulted in no turbidity criterion exceedences (LRK Communications et
a/, 2000).
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS
Historic analysis of sediment yield in Crooked River since 1870 was conducted in the South
Fork Clearwater River Landscape Assessment (USDA FS, 1998a) and updated for this analysis.
Figure 3.9 below shows the results of those analyses.
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
FIGURE 3.9: CROOKED RIVER SEDIMENT YIELD 1870-2004
o
1870 1880 1890 1900 1910 1920 1930 1940 1950 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000
The peaks in sediment yield prior to 1950 are the result of the same wildfires discussed above
under EGA cumulative effects. The fire peaks associated with the 1889 and 1945 wildfires are
smaller than peaks associated with later roads and timber harvest. Sediment yield associated
with fire is assumed to recover relatively quickly, whereas roads tend to produce a level of long
term, chronic sediment yield.
The sediment yield peaks associated with road construction prior to 1980 are likely
underestimated, since the road sediment mitigation values reflect current.conditions, rather than
practices which were in effect at the time of construction. Although roads were built in the
watershed prior to 1940, the sediment yield effects of these roads are not displayed until 1940.
Sediment yield peaks associated with historic mining activities are not reflected in Figure 3.9
and likely exceeded those associated with other activities.
The selected alternative of the BLM's Whiskey South Project includes timber harvest, temporary
road construction and prescribed fire treatments in Lower Crooked River. These activities were
evaluated using NEZSED and the results are combined with those of the American/Crooked
Project in Table 3.44 and Figure 3.10 below:
TABLE 3.44 - PERCENT (%) OVER BASE SEDIMENT YIELD (INCLUDING WHISKEY SOUTH)
WATERSHED NAME
Lower Crooked
River1
Area (mi2)
71.3
Year
2003
2005
2012
Alt A (existing)
9
9
9
AltB
9
13
8
Alt C
9
14
8
AltD
9
14
8
AltE
9
13
8
1 Composite watersheds were combined with upstream watersheds for sediment yield analysis
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
FIGURE 3.10: CROOKED RIVER SEDIMENT YIELD 2000-2012
15.0 -
12.0 -
I 9-0-
! 6.0 -
s?
3.0 -
0.0 -
<*
/' ,. —
"--- |
^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ J> / J> ^ / ^ ^
Mi A +' ^An • r* ~ 1
ING Action - - wi nskey bourn American Crooked + Whiskey South
Figure 3.10 shows the trend of sediment yield for Lower Crooked River of Alternative D from the
American and Crooked Project and the ongoing Whiskey South Project. Whiskey South has a
relatively minor effect on Crooked River. A slight long term reduction in sediment yield is
indicated as a-result of the American and Crooked River Project watershed improvements.
The Whiskey South activities were combined into a 2005 peak year for purposes of the analysis,
in order to check compliance with Forest Plan sediment yield and entry frequency guidelines!
The combined Whiskey South and American/Projects can be considered as a single entry in the
Lower Crooked River prescription watershed, given that the activities are occurring in close
proximity in time and, when combined, do not exceed the sediment yield guidelines of 30
percent over base. Though analyzed in separate documents, the scope and scale of effects are
consistent with that of a single entry.
Historic and current sediment yield have also occurred from activities not modeled in NEZSED.
In Crooked River, these include grazing, mining, and residential and commercial development.
Grazing by domestic stock probably preceded European settlement, but was increased with the
onset of the mining era. In Crooked River, grazing is considered to have been relatively minor
historically and is not occurring presently.
Mining occurred in both upland and riparian areas. Sediment yield from upland placer mining
has recovered to a large extent, with the exception of the pit near Orogrande. Instream dredge
mining caused large amounts of sediment yield during the active mining period. Some residual
sediment yield from dredge mining is likely still occurring due to destabilized stream banks.
Residential and commercial development has occurred in the vicinity of Orogrande and near the
mouth of Relief Creek. There are also two fisheries facilities located within the valley floor of
Crooked River. Most of the roads associated with this development have been modeled, but
the excavations for building pads, driveways, etc. have not.
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
There have also been watershed and riparian improvement projects in Crooked River that have
served to reduce sediment yield. These have included erosion control on existing roads,
riparian fencing, stream stabilization and mine site stabilization projects.
3.2.2.4. INDICATOR4-CHANNELMORPHOLOGY
ALTERNATIVE A-NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
EXISTING CONDITION
Headwaters stream surveys were conducted in Silver Creek and other project area watersheds
in 2002 and 2003, and reconnaissance fish habitat surveys were conducted in 2003. Additional
field reconnaissance was performed in Silver Creek in 2004. The results of these surveys are
found in the American and Crooked Rivers project file. Channel stability ratings in Silver Creek
were found to be fair to good
Channel gradients for subwatersheds in Crooked River are found in Appendix E, (Table E.4).
Following those tables is a general discussion of erosion, sediment transport and sediment
deposition processes. Channel morphology in project subwatersheds has been altered through
three primary processes: sediment deposition, channel encroachment and dredge mining.
Sediment deposition has occurred in areas subjected to significant development activity,
including reading and other development. Channel encroachment has occurred where roads
and other activities have taken place adjacent to streams and their floodplains. The highest
road densities in riparian areas are found in the Relief Creek and Lower Crooked River
subwatersheds. Dredge mining has occurred along most of the mainstem of Crooked River and
in the lower ends of Relief Creek. Implementation of Alternative A would leave these conditions
unchanged.
ALTERNATIVES B, C, D. AND E - ACTION ALTERNATIVES
DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS
The action alternatives are expected to have relatively little effect on channel morphology from
increased sediment yield. Generally, the EGA and sediment yield estimates are at levels where
little channel erosion or deposition is anticipated. The highest estimated sediment yields among
Forest Plan prescription watersheds are in Relief Creek in Alternatives C and D. The FISHSED
analysis found in Section 3.3. - Fisheries elaborates further on these effects. Although not
Forest Plan prescription watersheds Quartz and Silver Creeks were analyzed separately for
EGA and sediment yield.
There are no new stream crossings on temporary roads. Several stream crossing
improvements should improve channel morphology conditions in their immediate vicinity. These
improvements are site-specific. In the case of culvert replacements, the improvements often
result from less backwatering upstream of the site and less scour downstream. Similar
improvements occur where culverts are removed, with the additional benefit of enhanced
floodplain function through the crossing site. Some of the road decommissioning involves
crossings and riparian areas. Channel morphology should be improved in those areas.
In Crooked River, the project proposes instream improvement work in sections of Crooked
River, Relief Creek and Quartz Creek. Alternatives B, C, and D propose relatively low levels of
work, involving mostly maintenance of existing improvements and riparian planting. The levels
of work are increased in Alternative E. Alternative E also provides for more elaborate instream
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and floodplam improvements in about 0.5 miles of Relief Creek and 0.8 miles of Crooked River
This is also the case for Alternative D, when both required and additional projects are
implemented. These projects are listed in Appendix D. When implemented, these projects
should enhance stream function in terms of improving channel morphology conditions and
providing diverse aquatic habitat elements
DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS
Historically, the greatest impact to channel morphology in Crooked River was caused by dredge
mining. Encroachment of roads in riparian areas and floodplains also had a direct effect on
channel morphology.
The addition of the BLM's Whiskey South Project in Lower Crooked River is expected to have
little additional effect on channel morphology. This is because is affects a small proportion of
the Crooked River watershed area and is in part hydrologically disconnected from lower
Crooked River by the County road and dredge ponds.
3.2.2.5. INDICATOR 5 - WATER QUALITY
ALTERNATIVE A- NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
Water temperature was recorded at several locations in the Crooked River watershed during the
summer of 2003. These sites were Quartz Creek, Silver Creek, Relief Creek, Crooked River
below Relief Creek and Crooked River near the mouth. These data are shown in Appendix E
The data show a considerable variation across the watershed. Violations of the Idaho salmonid
spawning criterion of not-to-exceed 13° C were noted at all sites at certain times Violations of
the Idaho cold water communities of not-to-exceed 22° C were not noted in Crooked River
Violations of the EPA criterion of not-to-exceed 10° C (as a 7-day average of daily maximums)
were noted at all sites. Some basic metrics from the 2003 data are shown in Table 3 43 below
.As evidenced in the 1993-2004 South Fork Clearwater River water temperature data (Table
3.45), 2003 was one of the warmest years since 1993.
TABLE 3.45 - SUMMARY OF 2003 WATER TEMPERATURE DATA
Stream Name/Site
Quartz Creek
Silver Creek
Relief Creek
Crooked River below Relief Creek
Crooked River near mouth
Number of
Days > 20°C
0
0
4
0
26
Maximum
Instantaneous
fC)
15.2
16.0
20.2
18.7
21.7
Under the 'no action' alternative, insect and disease agents may tend to reduce shade over time
in some riparian stands. Fire could also reduce shade. Shade in dredge-mined reaches would
tend to increase very slowly over time as these areas are naturally recolonized by riparian
vegetation. Examples of this can be seen along Crooked River, where vegetation recovery has
been slow and spotty in the time period since dredging was last done in the 1950s.
A number of water quality parameters were sampled at stream sites in Crooked River during the
period 1974-1980. Summaries of data for pH, conductivity and hardness for Crooked River and
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Relief Creek are found in Table E.I. These data show that pH is near neutral to slightly acidic,
which is considered normal for area streams. Conductivity and alkalinity are both relatively low,
indicating relatively low amounts of dissolved constituents and also relatively low biological
productivity. Mann and Von Lindern (1988) found relatively high dissolved iron concentrations
in dredge ponds adjacent to Crooked River.
ALTERNATIVES B. C, D. AND E-ACTION ALTERNATIVES
DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS
All alternatives are designed to minimize effects on streamside shade. Timber harvest and
temporary road construction will not occur in Riparian Habitat Conservation Areas (RHCAs).
Under all action alternatives, insect and disease agents may tend to reduce shade over time in
some riparian stands. Fire could also reduce shade. There may be some incidental shade
reductions at stream crossing improvement sites. An example would be if some roadside
vegetation was removed during replacement of an existing culvert. Riparian planting would
occur along Quartz Creek, Relief Creek and Crooked River. This would be less in Alternatives
B, C, and D and greatest in Alternative E. Over time, shade would be increased in these
reaches and summer water temperatures may be slightly reduced. This approach is expected
to be in compliance with the South Fork Clearwater River water temperature TMDL
Beyond sediment yield described above, there would be little change in most water quality
parameters. Beneficial uses would be protected in all alternatives. There is some potential to
liberate mercury during instream improvement projects that involve disturbance of substrate
materials. This potential would be least in Alternatives B, C, and D, since the least amount of
area would be disturbed. In addition, the instream construction work in these alternatives
involves maintenance of areas that were previously disturbed in the 1980s and 1990s, thus it is
less likely that mercury exists in the substrate. The potential to release mercury in deleterious
amounts is considered to be slight in all action alternatives.
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS
Historically, the greatest impact to water quality in the Crooked River watershed was caused by
the impact of dredge mining and the encroachment of roads on the stream channels. This
resulted in a loss of riparian vegetation and shade along the mainstem of Crooked River, with a
presumed increase in water temperature as a result. Heavy metals present in the valley bottom
materials were also mobilized. There was likely some introduction of mercury, since it was often
used as an amalgam in the gold mining process. Sediment yield was also increased as a result
of road construction, timber harvest, fire and residential and commercial development.
There is expected to be little change in water quality as a result of the two ongoing projects
(Crooked River Defensible Space and Whiskey South) in Crooked River. Neither of these
projects is expected to alter streamside shade. Sediment yield effects of the Whiskey South
Project are disclosed above.
IRREVERSIBLE OR IRRETRIEVABLE EFFECTS (ALL INDICATORS)
There are no effects to watershed resources in Crooked River from this project that are
considered to be fully irreversible or irretrievable. Construction and obliteration of temporary
roads will leave some residual effects in terms of mixed soil horizons and interruption of
groundwater flow paths. Sediment delivered to low gradient stream reaches tends to have a
long residence time, but eventually will be transported or reorganized by high stream flows. The
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
instream improvements are intentionally designed to be effective in the long term but can be
removed or reconfigured in the future if warranted.
3-2.3. MAINSTEM SOUTH FORK CLEARWATER RIVER
BENEFICIAL USES
Under the Idaho Water Quality Standards, designated beneficial uses in the South Fork
Clearwater River and are cold-water communities, salmonid spawning, primary contact
recreation and special resource water (IDAPA 58.01.02).
EXISTING CONDITION
The South Fork Clearwater River subbasin is about 1,175 square miles in area Of this about
864 square miles, or 74 percent of the area, is part of the Nez Perce National Forest The
majority of the remaining land ownership is private, with lesser amounts of BLM State of Idaho
and Nez Perce Tribal ownership (USDA FS, 1998a).
The South Fork Clearwater River forms at the confluence of American and Red Rivers
Crooked River enters the South Fork about three miles below that point. The South Fork joins
with the Middle Fork Clearwater River at Kooskia to form the Clearwater River The main stem
length of the South Fork is about 62.5 miles. In that distance, it falls about 2 700 feet for an
average stream gradient of 0.8 percent.
The South Fork main stem can be broken into several major reaches. From its origin to about
Tenmile Creek, it is a relatively low gradient riffle/pool channel dominated by gravel and cobble
substrate. Below Tenmile Creek, the river enters a confined canyon characterized by steeper
stream gradient and large substrate dominated by boulders and cobbles. Downstream of Mill
Creek, the river alternates between confined and less confined reaches. Near Threemile Creek
the river enters a less confined, flat valley floor and is characterized by low gradient, a riffle/pool
channel and dominated by gravel and cobble substrate (USDA FS, 1998a).
The South Fork has been highly altered by encroachment by State Highway 14 along much of
its length. This has resulted in loss of floodplain function, simplification of the channel loss of
riparian vegetation and loss of large woody debris. The upper reaches were also dredge mined
The lower few miles were diked after a flood in 1964, especially near Stites and Kooskia Water
temperature and suspended and deposited sediment conditions have all been determined to be
elevated above natural conditions in the South Fork (IDEQ, etal, 2004).
DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS (ALL INDICATORS)
With the exception of transportation, direct effects to the South Fork Clearwater River would not
occur since none of the project activities take place along the river. Use of State Highways 13
and 14 would occur for log and aggregate haul, equipment mobilization and personnel transport
This use is subject to State and federal regulations.
Indirect effects to the South Fork Clearwater River would need to translate downstream via
either the main stems of American River or Crooked River. Given the nature, magnitude and
location of activities proposed in American River, it is considered highly unlikely that direct or
indirect effects would be noticed in the South Fork Clearwater River. This is also the case for
most actions being undertaken in Crooked River, with the exception of the instream
improvement activities. A portion of the instream improvement work would be conducted in
lower Crooked River. It is likely that some turbidity associated with suspended sediment could
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
reach the South Fork Clearwater River during certain phases of the instream restoration work.
This work would be done in accordance with Idaho State Water Quality Standards, Section 404
Permit requirements and Stream Alteration Permit requirements.
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS
INDICATOR 1 - WATERSHED CONDITION
Watershed condition indicators for the South Fork subbasin were described in the South Fork
Clearwater River Landscape Assessment (USDA FS, 1998a).
Fire was the primary vegetation disturbance prior to 1950, burning an average of about 45,100
acres per decade. Although some timber harvest occurred prior to 1950, it has not been
quantified. Since 1950, fires have burned about 3,400 acres per decade, whereas timber
harvest has averaged about 17,900 acres per decade. Timber harvest records indicate 3,090
acres cut in the 1950s, 23,154 acres in the 1960s, 32,559 acres in the 1970s, 20,155 acres in
the 1980s and 10,701 acres in the 1990s.
In the general area above the Forest boundary, there are approximately 2,150 miles of roads for
an average road density of 2.5 miles per square mile. Peak road construction occurred in the
1960s, when about 600 miles of road were built. In the 1970s and 1980s, about 400 miles of
road were built per decade. At the time of landscape assessment, about 100 miles of road had
been built in the 1990s.
INDICATOR 2- WATER YIELD
Historic analysis of EGA conditions in the South Fork Clearwater River since 1870 was
conducted in the South Fork Clearwater River Landscape Assessment (USDA FS, 1998a) and
updated for this analysis. It includes EGA effects of historic activities, including the following
recently completed timber sales: 806, Honker II, Lucky Marble Mackey Day, Middle Face, Mill
Helo, Otter Wing, Prospector Bunny, Ridge Running, Silver Quartz, Silver West, and 2021.
Figure 3.11 below shows the results of those analyses.
FIGURE 3.11: SOUTH FORK CLEARWATER RIVER EGA 1870-2004
50.0
40.0
1870
1880
1890
1900
1910
1920
1930
1940
1950
1960
1970
1980
1990 2000
Figure 3.11 indicates that EGA for the South Fork Clearwater River subbasin peaked at about
20 percent in the decade of 1910, associated with the large wildfires of the era. EGA associated
with timber harvest and road construction after 1950 has not exceeded about 10 percent and
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
has been gradually recovering in recent years. There are no EGA guidelines applicable at the
level of a 4 code subbasin, but the general EGA trends and levels are a useful indicator of
overall subbasin conditions, relative to vegetation changes and water yield increases.
Figure 3.12 shows the effect on South Fork Clearwater River EGA of historic ongoing and
foreseeable projects, in addition to Alternative D of the American and Crooked River Project
Ongoing actions reflected above include Meadow Face, Starbucky and Whiskey South'
Foreseeable actions reflected above include Eastside Township and Red Pines.
FIGURE 3.12 - SOUTH FORK CLEARWATER RIVER EGA 2000-2012
2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012
- No Action + Ongoing American Crooked Forseeable
Figure 3.12 indicates a slight increase to just over 8 percent EGA, followed by a gradual
recovery to pre-project conditions. The Blacktail project was not modeled for EGA and sediment
yield since data were not yet available. The project proposes fuel treatments on approximately
3,500 acres and prescribed burning on approximately 10,000 acres. Watershed improvements
such as road decommissioning are being planned such that a net reduction in sediment yield is
expected over time. The Blacktail project will be added to the cumulative effects analysis as
data becomes available. Blacktail activities will be designed to meet State Water Qualitv
Standards. y
INDICATOR 3 - SEDIMENT YIELD
Historic analysis of sediment yield in South Fork Clearwater River since 1870 was conducted in
the South Fork Clearwater River Landscape Assessment (USDA FS, 1998) and updated for this
analysis. It includes sediment yield effects of historic activities, including the following recently
completed timber sales: 806, Honker II, Lucky Marble Mackey Day, Middle Face, Mill Heio
Otter Wing, Prospector Bunny, Ridge Running, Silver Quartz, Silver West, and 2021 Figure
3.13 below shows the results of those analyses.
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
FIGURE 3.13: SOUTH FORK CLEARWATER RIVER SEDIMENT YIELD 1870-2004
50
45
40
35
I 3°
fe 25
20
15
10
5
I
T^7
rrrrrTnTTrr
1870 1880 1890 1900 1910 1920 1930 1940 1950
TTT'I'I I I n'TITrr'TTT'TT'T'T'l'T I I I'M 1 t 1 I I I I I I I I I 1 1 'IT I 'I I
1960 1970 1980 1990 2000
The peaks in sediment yield prior to 1950 are the result of the same wildfires discussed above
under EGA cumulative effects. After 1950, peaks of sediment yield occurred largely in response
to road construction. Timber harvest affects sediment yield to a lesser degree. The peaks in
sediment yield prior to 1950 are the result of the same wildfires discussed above under EGA
cumulative effects. After 1950, peaks of sediment yield occurred largely in response to road
construction. It can also be seen that chronic sediment yield gradually accumulated as a result
of road construction.
The sediment yield peaks associated with road construction prior to 1980 are likely
underestimated, since the road sediment mitigation values reflect current conditions, rather than
practices which were in effect at the time of construction. Although roads were built in the
subbasin prior to 1940, the sediment yield effects of these roads are not displayed until 1940.
Sediment yield peaks associated with historic mining activities are not.reflected in Figure 3.13
and likely exceeded those associated with other activities.
Figure 3.14 shows the effect on South Fork Clearwater River sediment yield of historic, ongoing
and foreseeable projects, in addition to Alternative D of the American and Crooked River
Project. Ongoing actions reflected above include Meadow Face, Starbucky and Whiskey South.
Foreseeable actions reflected below include Eastside Township, Red Pines, and the Newsome
Creek Restoration projects.
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
FIGURE 3.14: SOUTH FORK CLEARWATER RIVER SEDIMENT YIELD 2000-2012
12.0 -
9.0 -
0)
ro
fc 6.0 -
>
o
s?
3.0 -
0.0 -
*
•
.."*>.. I
'•"' ^c^ I
' ' ' ' i ' i i i — i 1 1 1
No Action + Ongoing American Crooked - - Forseeable
Figure 3.14 indicates a slight increase to just over 10 percent over base, followed by a slight
reduction in long term chronic sediment yield as a result of implementing watershed
improvement projects.
Actions associated with the proposed projects may contribute to and/or reduce cumulative
sediment yield in the South Fork Clearwater River downstream of project area, dependent on
the analysis timeframe. The NEZSED model was used to calculate the predicted cumulative
effects sediment yield based on the proposed timber harvest, road construction, road
maintenance, and road reconstruction. As discussed in the Watershed Cumulative Effects
section, these effects are expected to be short-term, and improvements in watershed condition
over time would contribute to improved conditions in the river, assuming concurrent negative
impacts do not occur off National Forest lands.
Several estimates of annual sediment yield have been made for the South Fork Clearwater
River, generally covering the area upstream of the Forest Boundary at the Mt. Idaho Bridge
(USDA FS, 1998a, 1999c; IDEQ et a/, 2004, Table L-2). These estimates were made using two
methods: 1) the NEZSED model; and 2) computations from suspended sediment samples
collected during 1988 through 1992. The range of these estimates is from 14,600 to 17,800
tons/year. For purposes of comparing the alternatives, a figure of 16,000 tons/year is used.
This is very close to the mean of the estimates. It is also very close to the figure computed in
the South Fork Clearwater TMDL, when using NEZSED at the Forest Boundary. Thus, it forms
a benchmark for the TMDL analysis.
Additional sediment yield from ongoing and foreseeable actions totals 170 tons/year. This is the
combined peak year figure from the Meadow Face, Red Pines and Whiskey South projects.
Thus, the benchmark figure to which the American/Crooked Project is compared is 16,170
tons/year.
The comparisons are done in terms of the sediment yield associated with each alternative as a
percent of the estimated annual sediment yield in the South Fork Clearwater River. The
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
estimates from each alternative are for routed sediment yield delivered from American and
Crooked Rivers to the South Fork Clearwater River for the peak activity year of 2005 (Table
3.46).
TABLE 3.46 - SEDIMENT YIELD FROM AMERICAN AND CROOKED RIVERS TO THE SOUTH FORK
CLEARWATER RIVER
ALTERNATIVE GENERATED
SEDIMENT YIELD
(TONS/YR)
ALTERNATIVE GENERATED
SEDIMENT YIELD
(% OF SFCR)
TOTAL ROUTED SEDIMENT
YIELD
(TONS/YR)
TOTAL ROUTED SEDIMENT
YIELD
(% OF SFCR)
Alt A (existing)
0
0
902
5.6%
AltB
33
0.2%
934
5.8%
Alt C | Ait D1
48
0.3%
951
5.9%
46/47
0.3%/0.3%
947/948
5.9%/5.9%
AltE
29
0.2%
930
5.8%
The amount of sediment estimated to be delivered to the main stem South Fork Clearwater
River as a direct result of each action alternative ranges from 0.2 percent to 0.3 percent of the
estimated annual yield of the river. When natural, alternative and pre-existing activity sediment
are added, the estimated contribution from American and Crooked Rivers ranges from 5.8
percent to 5.9 percent for each action alternative. The amounts and differences between
alternatives are relatively inconsequential, when considered in relation, to the total sediment
yield of the South Fork Clearwater River at the Forest Boundary.
The TMDL analysis (IDEQ et a/, 2004) provided sediment yield estimates at Stites, near the
mouth of the South Fork Clearwater River. Annual sediment yield estimates ranged from about
38,000 tons/year using suspended sediment data to about 90,000 tons/year as calculated from
the TMDL sediment budget. The sediment budget used a combination of modeling (NEZSED
and RUSLE) and field inventories (mass and instream erosion). It was concluded that there is a
large increase in human-caused sediment coming from the agricultural lands in the lower part of
the subbasin.
INDICATOR 4-CHANNEL MORPHOLOGY
Historically, the greatest impact to channel morphology in South Fork Clearwater River was
caused by dredge mining and encroachment of Highways 13 and 14. Channel alterations from
residential and agricultural development have affected the river below the Forest boundary.
Dikes constructed after the June 1964 flood have affected the channel morphology from Stites
to the mouth. Aggradation of the channel is also noticeable, particularly in the lower reaches
from Butcher Creek to the mouth. The source of the material causing the aggradation appears
to be the bed and banks of tributary streams, bank erosion along the mainstem and landslides
in the breaklands of the lower parts of the subbasin.
First figure includes required watershed improvement projects only; second figure includes required and additional
watershed improvement projects
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
Substrate data in the South Fork Clearwater River have been collected by the IDEQ, BLM and
USDA FS. In 2002, the IDEQ contracted data collection for surface fines and cobble
embeddedness. Data were collected in four reaches, from Threemile Creek to Crooked River,
with 32 cross-sections sampled in each reach. Reach mean percent fines (less than 6mm)
ranged from 2.2 percent to 6.0 percent and cobble embeddedness ranged from 46.6 percent to
48.2 percent. In 2002, the BLM collected surface fines and cobble embeddedness data at a site
just above Crooked River. Surface fines (less than 6mm) was 5.3 percent and cobble
embeddedness was 29.6 percent. In 1989, the USDA FS collected surface fines at four cross-
sections at a site just above Crooked River. Composite surface fines (less than 6mm) was 5
percent.
The levels of surface fines are considered to be quite low. This is probably due to the relatively
high transport capacity of the river. The cobble embeddedness levels are moderate to high,
perhaps indicating that higher levels of fine material are residing below an armor surface layer
of coarse particles.
The American and Crooked River project is expected to have negligible effects on channel
morphology of the South Fork Clearwater River. The pathway for such an effect would be
transport of coarse sediment that could lead to aggradation. Course sediments that could be
liberated during instream activities should be attenuated within the tributary channels rather than
transported to the South Fork. The risk of delivery of course sediment from landslides caused
by project activities is considered to be low. If such an event were to occur, the delivery would
be to a tributary, and similarly subject to attenuation prior to reaching the South Fork.
INDICATORS- WATER QUALITY
Water temperature in the mainstem South Fork Clearwater River commonly exceeds Idaho
State Water Quality Standards during the warm months (IDEQ, 2004). Daytime summer water
temperatures are warmest in the lower reaches (River Mile 0 to 20), below the Forest boundary.
This is largely because the river is wider, shallower and more exposed to solar radiation in the
lower reaches. The river is coolest where it runs east to west in a narrow, confined canyon (RM
35 to 50). It is somewhat warmer in its upper reaches where it is once again wider and
shallower, with less effective topographic shading (River Mile 50 to 65). Nighttime water
temperatures follow a somewhat different profile, generally increasing downstream, but with little
change below RM 25.
Table 3.47 displays data since 1993 for three sites on the South Fork Clearwater River. It
reflects some of the trends discussed above. It is also noticeable that, with the exception of
1994, the years since 1998 have shown longer durations of warm temperatures.
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
TABLE 3.47: SUMMARY OF WATER TEMPERATURE DATA FOR SOUTH FORK CLEARWATER RIVER
Year
1993
1994
1995
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
# of Days >20° C
Upper
2
34
0
2
1
24
26
35
25
31
39
NA
Mt. Idaho
0
24
21
7
3
14
10
26
16
16
33
28
Stites
32
50
371
52
48
31
47
61
57
52
56
43
Max Instantaneous Temp
Upper
25.0
24.5
16.5
20.0
20.5
22.2
22.5
24.7
24.2
25.1
24.7
NA
Mt. Idaho
19.0
23.3
20.71
21.6
21.0
21.6
21.2
22.9
21.7
22.5
26.0
23.2
Stites
22.7
28.4
24.91
26.2
24.7
22.0
25.6
27.9
26.7
26.7
27.5
27.5
The American and Crooked River project is not expected to have a noticeable effect on water
temperature in the South Fork Clearwater River. This is because shade is not being reduced
and channel morphology changes resulting in a wider, shallower channel are not anticipated.
Over time, shade and channel morphology in the project area should improve with
implementation of the riparian and instream improvements. The effect on water temperature
from these improvements will be subtle and occur over a long period of time.
The South Fork Clearwater River was analyzed for cumulative effects, including an effort to
quantify sediment yield increases. In general, sediment yield conditions have probably
improved in recent years. This is partly because the level of activity, particularly road building
on federal lands has been substantially less than during decades of the 1950s through the
1980s. Additionally, dredge and placer mining has been substantially reduced since the 1950s.
In addition, a number of watershed- and fisheries restoration projects have occurred within the
South Fork Clearwater subbasin. Other proposed timber sales on national forest lands are
subject to similar mitigation and upward trend requirements as the proposed American/Crooked
Project.
If the Forest Plan guidance of upward trend in aquatic conditions for below objective watersheds
is followed, along with the South Fork Clearwater River TMDLs for sediment and water
temperature, aquatic conditions should continue to improve in the South Fork Clearwater River,
when considered at the Forest Boundary near Mt. Idaho Bridge. General warming of the climate
(Mote, et at, 2003) may ultimately preclude reductions in water temperature over the next
several decades, even though streamside shade should improve over time.
Data started August 1
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3.2.4. WATERSHED SECTION SUMMARY
This section provides an overall summary of the existing conditions and effects analysis relative
to watershed resources in the American/Crooked Project.
EXISTING CONDITIONS
In American River, subwatersheds within the project area mostly contain low to moderate
gradient streams. The watersheds have a range of disturbance conditions as indexed by
existing road densities ranging from 0.6 to 4.3 mi/mi2. Stream channels have been mostly
affected by sediment deposition and road encroachment.
In Crooked River, subwatersheds within the project area have generally steeper stream
gradients.than American River. Watershed disturbances are more evenly distributed within the
project subwatersheds, as indexed by existing road densities ranging from 1.8 to 3 3 mi/mi2
Stream channels have been affected by sediment deposition and road encroachment In
addition, historic dredge mining was conducted in the mainstem of Crooked River and in lower
Relief Creek. This completely altered the channel morphology, floodplain function and riparian
vegetation.
The mainstem of the South Fork Clearwater River has been impacted by sediment deposition
road encroachment, dredge mining and removal of riparian vegetation. Certain impacts such
as the encroachment of State Highway 14 on the river, are essentially permanent in nature.
PROJECT EFFECTS
In American River, the project is expected to have some short term impacts, especially in terms
of sediment yield, followed by long term improvements. The short term impacts are mostly in
terms of sediment yield resulting from temporary road construction, road decommissioning
culvert removals and soil restoration.
In American River, all of the short term impacts fall within prescribed Nez Perce Forest Plan
sediment yield and entry frequency guidelines. Long term trends of aquatic resources are
discussed in Section 3.3 - Fisheries. Alternative E has generally the widest spread between
short term impacts and long term improvements. Alternative B, C, and D scale roughly in that
order in terms of the size of the short term impacts, relative to long term improvements in
watershed condition. Long term improvement in Alternative D would be similar to Alternative E,
if both the required and additional improvement projects are implemented.
In Crooked River, the project is also expected to have some short term impacts, especially
sediment yield, followed by long term improvements. The short term impacts are mostly
sediment yield resulting from temporary road construction, road decommissioning, culvert
removals, soil restoration, and instream improvements.
In Crooked River, all of the short term impacts fall within prescribed Nez Perce Forest Plan
sediment yield and entry frequency guidelines. Long term trends of aquatic resources are
discussed in Section 3.3 - Fisheries. Alternative E has generally the widest spread between
short term impacts and long term improvements. Alternative B, C, and D scale roughly in that
order in terms of the size of the short term impacts, relative to long term improvements in
watershed condition. Long term improvement in Alternative D would be similar to Alternative E,
if both the required and additional improvement projects are implemented.
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
Effects to the mainstem South Fork Clearwater River are expected to be relatively minor. The
project is expected to produce a minor amount of short term additional sediment yield, followed
by reductions of over time. No increases in water temperature are expected as a result of this
project and an improvement in streamside should occur over time as the effects of riparian
planting are expressed. The project is expected to comply with implementation guidelines
under the South Fork Clearwater River TMDLs for sediment and water temperature, as
indicated in the IDEQ comment letter dated September 30, 2004.
FOREST PLAN COMPLIANCE
This project meets the requirements of Executive Orders 11988 and 11990, which apply to
protection of wetlands and floodplains. These features are protected through implementation of
BMPs and Forest Plan Standards and Guidelines. The riparian restoration components of the
project are designed to improve condition of riparian areas and floodplain function.
The following Forestwide Standards for Water, from among those listed on pages 11-21 and II-22
and in Amendment 20 of the Nez Perce National Forest Plan, apply to this project and will be
met as follows:
TABLE 3.48 - COMPLIANCE WITH FOREST PLAN WATER STANDARDS
STANDARD
NUMBER
SUBJECT SUMMARY
COMPLIANCE ACHIEVED BY
FOREST PLAN STANDARDS
1
2
3
4
8
Apply State WQ Standards and BMPs
Use R1R4 sediment and R1 water yield guidelines
Evaluate site specific water quality effects
Complete watershed cumulative effects analysis
Meet Fish/WQ Objectives in Forest Plan Appendix A
Project design; specifically measures 1 , 4-6,
1 1 , 1.5-30, 52, 53 in Table 2.3
10,
Used in effects analysis
Field reviews
Completed
Project design; specifically measures 1 , 4-6,
11, 15-30, 52, 53 in Table 2.3
10,
FOREST PLAN AMENDMENT 20 (PACFISH)
WR-1
WR-2
WR-3
Watershed restoration projects promote ecological
integrity
Cooperate with agencies, tribes and private individuals
Restoration not a substitute for preventing degradation
Project design; specifically measures 21, 23-30
in Table 2.3
Ongoing; specifically measures 24, 28, 30
Table 2.3
in
Project design
If the Forest Plan guidance of upward trend in aquatic conditions for below objective watersheds
is followed, along with the South Fork Clearwater River TMDLs for sediment and water
temperature, aquatic conditions should continue to improve in the South Fork Clearwater River,
when considered at the Forest Boundary near Mt. Idaho Bridge. General warming of the climate
(Mote, et a/, 2003) may ultimately preclude reductions in water temperature over the next
several decades, even though streamside shade should improve over time.
The following Forest Plan Standards for Water Quality do not apply within the context of this
project.
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TABLE 3.49 - FOREST PLAN STANDARDS FOR WATER QUALITY THAT Do NOT APPLY TO THIS
PROJECT
STANDARD
NUMBER
6
7
SUBJECT SUMMARY
Evaluate hydropower, diversion, etc. facilities
Hydropower permits in Salmon River Basin
Analyze cumulative impact of hydropower
developments
CoMPLfANCE ACHIEVED BY
Not part of project
Not part of project
Not part of project
3.3. FISHERIES
INTRODUCTION
The elements addressed in this section include stream conditions and the aquatic species found
in areas potentially affected by the project along with the affects of the project on those species
and their habitats. See previous sections/chapters for a complete list of projects considered
under this action including watershed restoration, timber harvest (including roadside) and road
work etc.
SCOPE OF THE ANALYSIS
The fisheries analysis area includes watersheds within American River and Crooked River. The
area also includes the South Fork Clearwater River from headwaters to the confluence with the
Middle Fork Clearwater River. The prescription watersheds within the project area in American
River include; Upper American River; (Middle) American River; Lower American River East
Fork American River; Kirks Fork; Whitaker Creek; Queen Creek; Flint Creek; Box Sing Creek.
In Crooked River they include; Lower Crooked River; Relief Creek; and Middle Crooked River.
The upper South Fork Clearwater watershed is primarily under Federal management including
lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management. American River includes the Elk City
Township, which has mixed ownership and a long history of development. The lower portion of
the South Fork Clearwater River sub-basin is of mixed ownership.
Direct, indirect, and cumulative effects have been analyzed for streams within the project area
and downstream to and including the South Fork Clearwater River.
Indicators used to analyze effects on fish and their habitat include sediment/substrate large
woody debris, pool habitat, water yield, water quality including toxicants and stream
temperature, and habitat connectivity/passage. Effects on habitat from changes in substrate
and water yield are discussed with frequent reference to the Watershed section, where these
changes have been modeled and are displayed for each prescription watershed.
REGULATORY FRAMEWORK
NATIONAL FOREST MANAGEMENT ACT
The National Forest Management Act (NFMA), 1976 calls for an interdisciplinary approach to be
used in land and resource management planning for the National Forest System. This project
has been developed under these guidelines.
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FOREST SERVICE MANUAL (2670)
FSM 2670 directs that all Federal departments and agencies shall seek to conserve
endangered species and threatened species and shall utilize their authorities in furtherance of
the Endangered Species Act and to avoid actions which may cause a species to become
threatened or endangered. This Act also calls for the Forest Service to maintain viable
populations of all native and desirable nonnative wildlife, fish, and plant species in habitats
distributed throughout their geographic range on system lands.
NEZ PERCE NATIONAL FOREST PLAN
The Nez Perce Forest Plan (USDA FS, 1987a) sets out direction for management of the Nez
Perce Forest tiered to the above direction and all other applicable direction for activities on
National Forest lands. The plans includes goals and objectives couples with standards and
guides which direct how actions will be carried out.
FISH/WATER QUALITY OBJECTIVES
Appendix A of the Nez Perce Forest Plan lists fish/water quality objectives by prescription
watershed for streams in the analysis area (see Appendix E). The plan recognizes that most of
the project area streams do not meet their objectives. The plan also allows for activities to
proceed in these below objective watersheds, as long as we concurrently work toward a positive
upward trend in fish habitat carrying capacity. Watersheds like American River and Middle
Crooked River pose a unique situation in that they are not a single complete drainage (see
Section 3.2. - Watershed above and Appendix E).
THE DESIRED FUTURE CONDITION TABLES
To estimate natural fish habitat potential and quantify existing stream conditions as required by
the Forest Plan, the Nez Perce National Forest is using a Desired Future Condition (DFC)
Model developed on the Clearwater National Forest (Espinosa, 1992). This model addresses
specific conditions and channel types found on the Nez Perce Forest using a habitat quality
index. Values for the habitat parameters are quantified in a set of DFC tables. The DFC tables
list the specific fish habitat parameter and a value or range that a stream should have in order to
be at a given percentage of the streams potential and to meet the Forest Plan Objectives for
that watershed. The DFC values, habitat parameter data and their relationships'are stratified by
channel types and fish species. The values for the fish habitat parameters listed in the DFC
tables are considered achievable for streams under natural conditions in the absence of major
disturbances or are reflective of what good fish habitat should be. Most of the habitat
parameters are consistent for each species, and they vary slightly by channel type. Past work
has shown a need to adjust some of the elements to better-fit natural conditions and what is
achievable. The DFC for acting and potential woody debris in a meadow channel is often used
as an example of this.
UPWARD TREND
The Nez Perce Forest Plan provides direction that timber harvest in sediment-limited
watersheds that do not meet their Fish/Water Quality objectives, as listed in Appendix A, would
occur only where concurrent watershed improvement efforts result in a positive upward trend in
habitat condition. Many of the area streams do not meet their objectives and are in this
category.
Project activities under this planning document will occur in nine prescription watersheds in
American River and three prescription watersheds in Crooked River.
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NEZ PERCE NATIONAL FOREST PLAN AMENDMENT 20 (PACFISH)
The PACFISH Environmental Assessment amended the Nez Perce Forest Plan in 1995 and is
incorporated as Amendment 20. PACFISH establishes riparian goals, riparian management
objectives (RMOs), and defines riparian habitat conservation areas (RHCAs) It includes
specific direction for land management activities within riparian areas adjacent to streams
S dS' and
terrain. No site specific analysis has been completed to
modify PACFISH default buffers. RHCAs will be 300 feet either side of fish bearing streams and
150 feet either side of non-fish bearing streams. Intermittent streams will be managed to Key
Watershed standards. Riparian goals establish an expectation of the characteristics of healthy
functioning watersheds, riparian areas, and fish habitat. The goals direct the Forest to maintain
or improve habitat elements such as water quality, stream channel integrity, instream flows
riparian vegetation, and others.
Riparian management objectives (RMOs) for stream channel condition provide the criteria
against which attainment, or progress toward attainment, of the riparian goals is measured
They include habitat attributes such as number of pools, amount of large wood in the channel
stability of the stream banks, and width-to-depth ratio. The areas adjacent to streams and
wetlands (RHCAs) were established in PACFISH to maintain the integrity of aquatic
ecosystems. Healthy riparian areas are essential to maintaining or improving the quality of fish
habitat in streams. This analysis will use a combination of DFC and RMO values to define
existing conditions in watersheds where activities occur. See Appendix E for specific direction
contained in Forest Plan Amendment 20 (USDA FS, 1987a, PACFISH).
RIPARIAN HABITAT CONSERVATION AREAS
In addition, the Nez Perce Forest Plan defines standards for vegetation management in riparian
areas (Management Area 10), which are collectively defined as lakes, lakeside lands perennial
streams, seasonally flowing streams supporting riparian vegetation, and adjoining lands that are
dominated by riparian vegetation (NPFP III-30-33). This area includes the floodplains of
streams and the wetlands associated with springs, lakes, and ponds. Streamside and wetlands
will be managed under Forest Plan Amendment 20 (PACFISH). No timber harvest will occur in
RHCAs. Activities within the RHCA will be designed to meet the Riparian Management
Objectives (RMO). Streamside RHCAs widths will be 300 feet either side of fish bearing
streams, 150 feet either side of non fish bearing perennial streams and 100 feet either side of
intermittent streams. No timber harvest will occur on high risk landslide prone RHCAs The
guidelines are included in Appendix E
ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT AND BIOLOGICAL OPINIONS FROM NOAA-NMFS AND
USFWS
The American and Crooked River Area have been designated as priority watersheds as
directed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration - National Marine Fisheries Service (NOAA-NMFS) for recovery of Endangered
Species Act (ESA) listed fish species. These regulatory agencies issued Biological Opinions
(BO) for Land and Resource Management Plans 1998 (USDI NOAA-NMFS, et al, 1988) with the
following relevant guidelines for priority watersheds.
• Watershed analysis must be conducted prior to harvest, salvage, or thinning activities in
RHCAs, and demonstrate that the action would not retard/prevent attainment of RMOs
or adversely affect listed fish.
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• Watershed analysis must be conducted if watershed's Equivalent Clearcut Acres (EGA)
exceeds 15 percent, if harvest activities would increase EGA.
• For new/proposed roads, if road density exceeds 2 miles/mi2, reduce road mileage and
emphasize road closure, obliteration, and revegetation.
• The 1998 steelhead Biological Opinion added sediment RMO, incorporated by reference
from the 1995 Biological Opinion for Chinook salmon. This RMO includes standards of
less than 20 percent surface fines in spawning habitat or less than 30 percent cobble
embeddedness in rearing habitat.
The Endangered Species Act also provides direction that federal agencies consult on all
activities that may affect listed species and/or their habitat.
It is the policy of Congress that all Federal departments seek to conserve endangered species
and threatened species and shall utilize their authorities in furtherance of this purpose (ESA
1979 as amended, §1531.2b).
MAGNUSON-STEVENS ACT
Pursuant to section 305(b) of the Magnuson-Stevens Act and its implementing regulations, 50
CFR Part 600.920, Federal agencies must consult with NOAA-NMFS regarding any of their
actions authorized, funded, or undertaken, or proposed to be authorized, funded, or undertaken
that may adversely affect Essential Fish Habitat (EFH). The Magnuson-Stevens Act, Section 3,
defines Essential Fish Habitat as "those waters and substrate necessary for fish for spawning,
breeding, feeding, or growth to maturity." Federal agencies may incorporate an Essential Fish
Habitat Assessment into Endangered Species Act Biological Assessments. EFH habitat for
Coho salmon is not in the project area and is limited to the mainstem Clearwater River over 50
miles downstream.
Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tschawytscha) Essential Fish Habitat for chinook salmon
includes all historically accessible reaches of the Clearwater drainage (except the North Fork
above Dworshak Dam). Essential Fish Habitat for chinook is present in both American River
and Crooked River.
Coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) were once native to the Clearwater River basin. Their
distribution was primarily associated with tributaries of the Lower Clearwater River. Historic
runs were extirpated and we are mostly dealing with a fish that the Nez Perce Tribe is stocking
from area hatcheries. The Clearwater River Coho enter the Columbia River in August and
September. They reach the Clearwater River in October and spawn in November and
December. The juvenile fish emerge in March and April and out-migrate in May and June after
spending one to two years rearing in their natal stream. There is some sign of movement to
mainstem habitats for winter rearing. Clearwater Coho return in 1.5 years as adults.
HABITAT POTENTIAL AND THEMES
AQUATIC POTENTIAL/THEMES
The South Fork Clearwater River Landscape Assessment (USDA FS, 1998a), developed
functional themes for each Ecological Reporting Unit (ERU).
American River has a high to very high habitat for aquatic species. Spring chinook habitat
potential is very high in Lower American River. Very high potential westslope cutthroat habitat
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exists throughout the watershed, with the high order streams providing high potential sub
adult/adult rearing and spawning habitat. Steelhead habitat potential is rated as high for this
watershed. Bull trout habitat potential in this watershed is rated as high, with the higher order
channels in the lower watershed constituting important sub adult/adult rearing. American River
is assigned a rating of High Priority, Restore Aquatic Process.
The Landscape Assessment highlights historic mining in both of these drainages as a primary
impact to fish habitat and aquatic process. American River also has a history of impacts from
private land development, cattle grazing, timber harvest and road building.
The Lower Crooked River has a rating of Very High Priority, Restore Aquatic Process. The
American and Crooked River project is within the Lower Crooked River Ecological Reporting
Unit. The less disturbed Upper Crooked River is assigned a rating of Very High Priority
Conserve Existing Aquatic Function. Crooked River has less of a history of cattle grazing but
timber harvest and road construction have impacted the Lower Crooked River as well.
Crooked River has a very high habitat potential for spring chinook and steelhead in the lower
portion, and a very high potential for bull trout and westslope cutthroat in the upper watershed.
THREATENED AND ENDANGERED FISH SPECIES
STEELHEAD TROUT
Steelhead Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss gairdneri) in the Snake River basin are listed as a
threatened species under the Endangered Species Act (Federal Register, 1997). Steelhead
trout are distributed throughout the South Fork Clearwater sub-basin and the American and
Crooked River watersheds (USDA FS, 1999a). It is likely that the South Fork Clearwater River
and American and Crooked Rivers will be included as critical habitat when the designation is
final.
Steelhead trout in Idaho are the anadromous form of rainbow trout, which have been further
classified as redband trout of the Columbia River basin (Behnke, 2002). "Anadromous" refers to
a life history whereby fish spawn and rear in freshwater but migrate to the ocean before
maturing and returning to fresh water to spawn. Steelhead trout and most species of salmon
follow an anadromous life history, and adults of both may attain large size as a result of time
spent in the ocean. Populations of redband trout in the Columbia River basin, including those in
Idaho, generally follow either an anadromous or resident life history. Some stream systems
may support both types of individuals.
Steelhead trout spawning and rearing in the American River and Crooked River area generally
enter fresh water in late summer and fall, spend the winter in the lower and middle Clearwater
River below Kooskia, and migrate up the South Fork Clearwater River in early spring.
Spawning usually occurs in April and May, in the mainstem and lower reaches of tributary
streams. Juveniles usually spend about two years in streams and rivers, sometimes three,
before migrating downstream to the ocean during the spring runoff period in May and June
(Behnke, 2002).
In the American River, juvenile steelhead trout and resident rainbow trout have been
documented in Upper, Middle and Lower American River, East Fork American River, Flint Creek
and Box Sing Creek. In Crooked River, juvenile steelhead trout have been documented in
Lower Crooked River, Relief Creek, Middle Crooked River, Silver Creek and Quartz Creek.
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INTERIOR REDBAND
Interior Redband Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss gairdneri) includes both anadromous steelhead
(discussed above) and native resident rainbow trout that do not migrate to the ocean (Behnke,
2002). They are classified as the same species, except fish included in this category spend
their entire lives in a stream or river, often at or near their natal area. Both resident and the
anadromous form are listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (Federal
Register, Vol. 69, No. 113, p. 33119).
In most anadromous steelhead populations, a portion of the juveniles do not migrate to the
ocean and remain as resident redbands throughout their lives (Behnke, 2002). This is the likely
scenario in the American and Crooked River watersheds. Most juveniles migrate to the ocean
but small percentages probably remain as resident fish. There are no known populations
isolated above barriers , although redband spawning was observed in East Fork Relief Creek
(W. Paradis personal observation, 2003). Isolated populations exist elsewhere on the Nez
Perce National Forest and in the South Fork Clearwater sub-basin.
BULL TROUT
Bull trout (Salvelinus confluentus) in the Columbia River basin have been listed as threatened
under the Endangered Species Act (Federal Register Vol. 63, No. 111, June 10, 1998). Critical
habitat for bull trout has been proposed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, October 6, 2004
(Federal Register Vol. 69/193; 59995-60076). There is no proposed critical habitat in the project
area for American River or Crooked River. Both watersheds are managed under the Nez Perce
Forest Plan, which includes Amendment 20 (PACFISH).
Bull trout are actually a char and are included in the genus Salvelinus, along with brook trout,
lake trout, Dolly Varden, and Arctic char. The bull trout and Dolly Varden were long considered
the same species and are generally similar in appearance, but skeletal and genetic analyses
have shown they are separate species (Behnke, 2002). Large bull trout are known as voracious
predators of other fish, although small bull trout typically feed on invertebrates. Bull trout spawn
in the fall, typically in the coldest reaches of smaller tributaries. Clean substrate (rocks), cold
water temperatures, and the presence of cover are important attributes of preferred bull trout
habitat.
Bull trout are especially vulnerable to human-induced factors that increase water temperature
and sediment loads, change flow regimes, block migration routes, and establish non-native
trout, particularly brook trout (Behnke, 2002).
Bull trout are present in the South Fork Clearwater River and many of its tributaries, including
American River and Crooked River. Bull trout have been documented in American River, Upper
American River, East Fork American River and Kirks Fork. One bull trout was observed in the
1989 survey of Flint Creek and no bull trout have been documented using Box Sing Creek.
Crooked River is an important stream for bull trout. The weir at the mouth of this system is
managed by Idaho Department of Fish and Game. They observe both adult and juvenile bull
trout moving in and out of the system. The headwaters provide important spawning and rearing
habitat for this fish and the mainstem is a well used travel corridor. Bull trout have been
observed using Lower Crooked River, Middle Crooked River, Relief Creek, and Silver Creek.
The upper Crooked River watersheds (outside the project area) are recognized as very
important for spawning and rearing of bull trout.
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FALL-CHINOOK SALMON
Fall Chinook Salmon (Oncorhynchus tschawytscha) is listed as a threatened species in the
Clear-water River basin (Federal Register, Vol. 57, No. 78, 14653, April 22, 1992) Fall chinook
salmon are not found in the American and Crooked River area, but they do occur downstream in
the lower reaches of the South Fork Clearwater River and in the mainstem Clearwater River.
Snake River fall chinook salmon were historically less well-distributed across the upper Snake
River basin than spring and summer chinook, although the Snake River basin including the
Ciearwater River, was considered to support the highest production of fall chinook salmon in the
entire Columbia River basin. The historic importance of the Clearwater River in providing
spawning and early rearing habitat is presently unclear, but it is assumed it sustained a
significant component of the entire population.
Snake River fall chinook begin entering the Columbia River in August and continue through
October, with peak migration occurring in early September. Returning adults have generally
spent three or four years in the ocean. Adults generally arrive in the Clearwater River in
October with fish present from September through December. Spawning occurs from
November through early December. Fry emerge from late winter to early spring, juveniles rear
over the ensuing spring and summer months, then migrate to the ocean in the fall before they
are a year old.
FOREST SERVICE SENSITIVE AND STATE LISTED FISH SPECIES
In a letter dated October 28, 2004, the USDA Forest Service's Northern Region Sensitive
Species list was updated to include lamprey and other wildlife and plant species on the Nez
Perce National Forest (USDA FS, 2004c).
SPRING CHINOOK SALMON
Spring Chinook Salmon (Oncorhynchus tschawytscha) are considered a sensitive species in
the Northern Region, USDA Forest Service and are a species of special concern in the State of
Idaho. They are not listed as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act in the
South Fork Clearwater sub-basin because indigenous populations were likely eliminated from
the Clearwater River by construction of Lewiston Dam in the early 20th century. Naturalized
populations of spring chinook salmon, however, have been re-established in the South Fork
Clearwater sub-basin, including American River and Crooked River, as a result of reintroduction
efforts by Federal and state agencies, and the Nez Perce Tribe.
Both the American River and Crooked River watersheds have a high inherent capacity to
support spring chinook salmon (USDA FS, 1998a), based on features such as climate, relief,
and geology. These river systems are comprised of significant lengths of low gradient, meadow
reaches that provide optimal spawning and rearing habitat for this species; offering large areas
of appropriately-sized spawning gravels as well as preferred low gradient rearing habitat for
juveniles (USDA FS, 2003a).
Historically, significant numbers of spring chinook salmon spawned and reared in these systems
as well as other tributaries of the South Fork Clearwater River. Currently, adult returns vary but
are generally low. In 2003, the weir at the mouth of Crooked River counted 1,360 returning
adult spring chinook. The fish habitat survey conducted by Clearwater BioStudie's, Inc. (1990)
identified 9,810 square meters of spawning gravel available in the mainstem river from the
mouth to Orogrande. If this habitat were fully seeded, even in the existing condition, there is
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potential to produce over 500,000 spring Chinook smolts annually in Crooked River. The
American River is a very similar system. Both rivers have been dredge mined using large
floating bucket line dredges, which resulted in a loss of pool habitat, removal of acting and
potential woody debris and wider more shallow streams.
Spring chinook salmon have been identified in Upper, Middle and Lower American River, East
Fork American River, Kirks Fork, Flint Creek and Box Sing Creek. In Crooked River, they have
been identified in Lower Crooked River and Middle Crooked; and are likely to also use Relief,
Silver, and Quartz Creeks.
WESTSLOPE CUTTHROAT
Westslope Cutthroat Trout (Oncorhynchus clarki lewisi) are considered sensitive in the
Northern Region, U.S. Forest Service and a species of special concern by the State of Idaho.
Currently, they are not listed or proposed for listing under the Endangered Species Act. The
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has "determined that a petition to list the westslope cutthroat
trout...presented substantial information indicating that the requested action may be warranted"
(USDI Fish and Wildlife Service, 1998). Cutthroat trout are widely distributed across the
Clearwater basin, although the current abundance is probably less than historic.
Westslope cutthroat trout are widespread in the project area, and have been found in virtually
every tributary where surveys have been conducted. Populations may also be present in
additional areas where surveys have not been conducted or where existing information is
insufficient to define species presence or absence. Strong populations of resident fish have
been observed in Quartz Creek, Silver Creek, Upper Relief Creek, and upper Kirks Fork (NPNF
unpublished data).
The isolated populations in Queen and Whitaker offer unique opportunities to study genetic
differences between isolated "fish and those subject to hybridization with non-native rainbow
trout. There is also the opportunity to connect these streams to the mainstem and monitor fish
dispersal and genetic changes.
Although population status of resident westslope cutthroat trout is thought to be strong in some
streams, the larger fluvial fish, those moving out of the tributaries and rearing in the mainstem
are showing very low densities, making this species at risk.
Primary existing threats to westslope cutthroat trout in the project area include habitat
degradation, loss of connectivity among populations, competition with non-native brook trout,
and harvest of adults by anglers.
PACIFIC LAMPREY
Pacific Lamprey (Lampetra tridentata) is considered a USDA Forest Service Northern Region
sensitive species and a State of Idaho species of special concern. Recent sampling in the
South Fork Clearwater River indicated the presence of juvenile lampreys along the mainstem
river and some of the tributaries (Cochnauer and Clair, 2003). Similar sampling conducted in
Crooked and American Rivers in 2001 did not identify any lampreys. (Cochnauer and Clair,
2001 and 2002). Much of American River and the lower reaches of Crooked River were likely
historic habitat for lamprey (Clair, 2004)
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OTHER AQUATIC SPECIES
Brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) are present throughout the American River and Crooked
River watersheds, including most streams in the project area. Brook trout are not native to
streams west of the Continental Divide. Brook trout can occupy a wide range of habitats and
have the ability to compete with trout, salmon, and char that are native to streams in Idaho In
degraded habitats, brook trout will often out-compete native bull trout (Clearwater Basin Bull
Trout Technical Advisory Team, 1998). Where the species co-exist, brook trout are likely to
displace native westslope cutthroat, particularly in low gradient streams.
Brook trout are a fall-spawning species, and interbreeding with bull trout is common in areas
where the species coexist. Brook trout are usually much more abundant than bull trout where
they occur together, and this distorted ratio of abundance can lead to mass hybridization
(Behnke, 2002).
Surveys have documented brook trout in Mainstem American River, Whitaker Creek Flint
Creek, and Mainstem Crooked River. Bull trout and westslope cutthroat trout are also present
in these areas.
The American and Crooked River project area is also known to support various other aquatic
species and amphibians. Mountain whitefish (Prosopium williamsoni), sculpins (Coitus spp.)
and dace (Rhinicthys spp.) have been observed throughout most of the area. '
Tailed frogs have been documented in area streams and are believed to be widely distributed
Other amphibians documented within the watershed include Columbia spotted frogs and Idaho
giant salamanders. Western toads and long-toed salamanders are also present. Amphibians
are discussed in greater detail in Section 3.11 - Wildlife.
ANALYSIS METHODS
INTRODUCTION
This section will describe in general, how exiting conditions for fish and fish habitat were
determined. The analysis will focus on six elements of fish habitat. This general discussion will
be followed by a detailed description of the two river systems (American River and Crooked
River) and how these elements will change as a result of this project. This will be followed with
a discussion of cumulative effects. Included in the existing condition narratives for the two river
systems is a mix of both old and new data. The Forest is fortunate to have fisheries personnel
in place who have been working in these systems since 1984.
The major improvements to the dredged mine reaches in the two rivers involved the installation
of instream structures and the placement of large woody debris. In Crooked River, most of this
work occurred from 1984 to 1988. These actions were coupled with extensive riparian planting
and seeding in an effort to increase shade and improve stream bank stability. The data used to
reflect existing conditions reflects some of these improvements. Relief Creek acting woody
debris is an example of wood being added by instream improvements. The mining impacts
were so extensive that even with the instream work, habitat elements remain below objective.
Observations and recent surveys in tributaries of American and Crooked Rivers do not suggest
that major changes in habitat conditions have occurred as a result of weather events since
1984. Habitat conditions appeared to be much like those observed in 1984 (W. Paradis, per.
comm.). The data used to describe the existing condition for this area represent the fish habitat
as observed and surveyed in 2003.
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INDICATOR 1 - SEDIMENT/SUBSTRATE CONDITION
Substrate conditions are an important component of fish habitat and fish survival. Cobble
embeddedness is a measure of fine-grained sand that has filled in around the cobble substrate.
The more embedded the substrate is the more reduction we see in over wintering habitat and
food production.
Cobble embeddedness and percent surface fines were used as measures of the amount of
deposited sediment present in the streambed.
Existing measured or estimated cobble embeddedness and percent surface fines have been
compared to optimal stream conditions and assigned a percent. These conditions, referred to
as "desired future condition" standards, are presented below in Tables 3.51 and 3.52, along with
the existing condition and percent of optimal.
Existing measured or estimated cobble embeddedness in analysis area streams was also used
to estimate summer and winter rearing capacities for trout and salmon, using the FISHSED
model (Stowell et al, 1983). The FISHSED model was then used to compare action alternatives
using both existing cobble embeddedness measurements and predictions of NEZSED. These
elements were used to roughly predict amount of change in summer and winter rearing capacity
among action alternatives using mathematical relationships in the FISHSED model. These
changes were calculated for each alternative and are an indication of the amount of sediment
expected as a result of surface sediment erosion. Modeled predictions for all action alternatives
were included. Sediment from sources other than surface sediment erosion, including bank
erosion and mass movement (landslides) are not included in model estimates.
The FISHSED model includes calculations for fish embryo survival, summer rearing capacity,
and winter rearing capacity. Fish embryo survival is an estimate of predicted fine sediment by
depth in cobble stream bottoms. In general, the Nez Perce National Forest has not collected
substrate core data since the late 1980s. One reason these data are no longer collected is
research published in 1988 suggested modeling embryo survival in egg pockets does not
accurately reflect conditions faced by embryos or emerging fry in real-life stream situations
(Chapman, 1988). For the American and Crooked River analysis, the model was not used to
estimate changes in embryo survival because percent fine by depth data, which are substrate
core data measurements, were not available. . Summer and winter rearing capacity reflect how
the degree of fine sediment in the stream bottom affects the stream's ability to support fish
during these seasons. This analysis will focus on summer and winter rearing and how these
elements are changed as a result of this Project.
Model results, as displayed below in Tables 3.51 and 3.52, are reasonable estimates and not
absolute numbers with high statistical precision. The capability of the FISHSED model in
analyzing and displaying change at the levels shown in these tables is somewhat limited. In this
case, data from FISHSED are most useful in comparing the relative effects among alternatives.
The model also reflects short-term changes only and does not show the long term recovery,
projected in NEZSED
INDICATOR 2 - LARGE WOODY DEBRIS
Large woody debris is a component of habitat quality and complexity and is also an important
contributor to stream productivity, cover, and food production for fish and other aquatic
organisms. Large wood in the streams also contributes to channel stability in small, low order
streams, and is thus an important element even in streams where fish are not present. Under
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
natural conditions, large wood is contributed to streams from the surrounding riparian areas as
trees fall over and may be recruited either discretely (one or two here and there) or in large
numbers over a short period of time. The latter often occurs in response to a significant
disturbance event, such as wildfire or an extreme weather event where floods or debris torrents
wash large amounts of material into the stream.
The amount of large woody debris in a stream is usually measured in the field during stream
surveys by counting the number of large woody pieces present in the stream. Future woody
debris recruitment is estimated by counting the number of trees in the riparian area that could
fall into the stream.
Some stream reaches in the project area have been determined to be debris-deficient; most of
these reaches occur in the streams that have been placer mined like mainstem American River
and Crooked River as well as tributaries like Relief Creek.
INDICATOR 3 - POOL HABITAT
Poohriffle ratio is an indicator of habitat quality and complexity, both of which are important
elements for salmonid fishes in streams. In addition, the quality of pools is an important
consideration. Pool quality is generally indicated by pool volume and pool depth, with larger,
deeper pools offering greater quality. Longitudinal spacing of pools along a stream course is
also important.
Stream survey data have provided estimates of the number and quality of pools for streams in
the American and Crooked River area that have been surveyed. The summarized data present
pool information as poohriffle ratio, with a ratio of at least 50 percent or more pools as highly
desirable.
The number of pools in a stream and the quality of those pools can be affected by:
(1) Long-term increases in sediment yield, a phenomenon that can result in pool-filling
and eventual loss of the pool;
(2) Increased bedload accumulation that also results in pool-filling;
(3) Lack of large woody debris and other pool-forming structures, which can significantly
affect streams that are dependent on large wood as the primary pool-forming
mechanism, and
(4) Altered channel structure from dredging and road encroachment.
Therefore, changes in sediment yield and the amount of large wood available to fall in the
stream are indicators for predicting changes in the number and quality of pools over time, as
well as number of trees felled or placed into streams. In addition, pools may be artificially
created during channel restoration or other habitat improvement projects.
INDICATOR 4 - WATER YIELD
Equivalent Clearcut Area (EGA) is used as a tool to assess potential changes in water yield.
EGA is discussed in more detail in the Watershed section. Increases in water yield may
indirectly affect fish habitat through increased bank erosion, channel down cutting, increased
accumulation of larger streambed materials, reduction in number of pools, and overall reduction
of habitat complexity.
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
INDICATOR 5 - WATER QUALITY
Toxics
Water Quality analysis includes introduction of toxic materials. We currently are proposing no
tools for predicting the amount of toxic materials entering streams because we are implementing
mitigation such that the risk of toxic materials entering streams is very low, and we do not
expect a measurable effect from the use of these materials.
WATER TEMPERATURE
Potential increases in stream temperature are addressed by assessing the degree of activities
in riparian areas that may result in increased or decreased solar radiation to streams. No timber
harvest is proposed in streamside RHCAs and no increase in water temperature is anticipated.
Restoration activities include riparian planting designed to increase stream canopy. See the
Watershed section above for a detailed discussion of this element.
INDICATOR 6 - HABITAT CONNECTIVITY/FISH PASSAGE
The ability for fish to move between habitats as conditions change and for individuals to move
between fish populations is an important component for short-term survival and long-term
population genetic diversity. Culvert improvement work associated with this action will focus on
both increased culvert size for better passing of flood flows and movement of aquatic biota up
and down stream.
Overall, the presence of roads is highly correlated with changes in species composition,
population sizes, and hydrologic and geomorphic processes that shape aquatic and -riparian
systems. Research shows the importance of removal or restoration of existing roads to benefit
both terrestrial and aquatic biota (Trombulak and Frissell, 2000). Roads can alter the landscape
distributions of the starting and stopping points of debris flows, and they can alter the balance
between the intensity of flood peaks and the stream network's resistance to change (Jones et
al, 1999). Road crossings can prevent or interfere with upstream migration of adult and juvenile
salmonids, aquatic macro invertebrates, and larval amphibians (Furniss et al., 1991).
Roads, culverts, and sometimes bridges act like dams, constricting stream flow through a single
narrow outlet. This can prevent the transportation of habitat-forming gravel and woody material
down the channel. These constriction points also cause deposition and channel widening at the
culvert inlet (USDA FS unpublished data, 1996a, 1999f). The channels below culvert outlets are
typically down cutting and scoured by the high velocity water caused by constriction.
Roads and stream crossings have also been shown to function as barriers to the upstream
movement and dispersal for many fish and wildlife species (Furniss et al, 1991). Culvert outlets
not in contact with stream bottoms do not allow access for aquatic species. Undersized culverts
constrict flows creating high velocity barriers and eliminating substrate from culvert bottoms.
These barriers can isolate small aquatic populations, limiting or preventing genetic exchange
between populations, and preventing the recolonization of historic or recovering habitats.
Stream crossing structures also limit or prevent seasonal upstream movement by fish. Juvenile
salmonids living in rivers often seek refuge in tributary streams during high flow events.
Additionally, many culverts are in need of repair or replacement to reduce risk of failure.
Historically, most culverts were sized to pass 50-year storm events. In many cases, this sizing
is not adequate to handle large flood events or debris torrents. Culverts sized for a 100-year or
greater event are more likely to pass the water and debris associated with a large event.
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
ANALYSIS OF DIRECT. INDIRECT. AND CUMULATIVE EFFECTS TO THREATENED. ENDANGERED
AND SENSITIVE (TES} FISH SPECIES. ~~ '
TES fish species present in the American and Crooked River watersheds include spring chinook
salmon, steelhead trout, bull trout, and westslope cutthroat trout. Changes in habitat could
affect these species directly, indirectly, and/or cumulatively and are collectively considered
indicators of effect. A Biological Assessment has been completed for threatened endangered
and sensitive fish species for the selected alternative. Indicators used in the Biological
Assessment are based on accepted indicators developed by the Central Idaho Level 1 Team
The results of the BA and any outcomes associated with consultation are included in the Record
of Decision.
EXISTING CONDITION OF HABITAT CHARACTERISTICS AND ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS -
AMERICAN RIVER
AMERICAN RIVER (UPPER, MIDDLE AND LOWER)- PRESCRIPTION WATERSHEDS -#17060305-
05-09,06,16
American River is a large watershed with important aquatic values and a high priority for
restoration of aquatic processes. The mainstem river is divided into three prescription
watersheds (Map 7a). Upper American River is above the Elk City Township and primarily
includes lands administered by the Forest Service. Middle American River extends into the
township and has experienced extensive amounts of placer mining and fish habitat degradation
Lower American River is within the township and has experienced similar impacts. The Bureau
of Land Management administers lands within this area and much of the survey data and
background information comes from their work (BLM, American River BA/BE, March 1999).
Steelhead trout, bull trout, cutthroat trout, spring/summer chinook salmon, rainbow trout, pacific
lamprey, mountain whitefish, sculpin, and dace are present in the American River watershed.
Their distribution is widespread, with the exception of bull trout for which the distribution is not
well known. Brook trout are also present and widely distributed. Spring chinook salmon and
steelhead trout abundance is low. WestsJope cutthroat trout populations vary; some areas are
devoid of cutthroat trout while others have relatively high densities. The higher densities of
cutthroat appear correlated with relatively undeveloped areas and colder streams in the
American River watershed. There are very few large-sized migratory cutthroat trout.
Migratory bull trout are present in American River, although at low levels. The extent of resident
bull trout in American River is not well known. Currently, it appears that the East Fork American
River provides the only spawning and early rearing areas for bull trout in the watershed.
Surveys conducted by the Forest Service in 1998 did not document occurrences of bull trout in
upper American River. Surveys by BLM, FS, and IDFG (IDFG, et a/, 1996-2003) documented
bull trout in mainstem American River, East Fork American River, and lower Kirks Fork.
The BLM surveyed Lower American River in 1992 using a modified Hankin and Reeves (1988)
survey methodology (USDI BLM, 1999). The dominant channel type was B, average gradient
was 2 percent, and unstable stream banks averaged 2 percent. Lower American River occurs
within the Elk City Township and a large amount of the stream bottom has been dredge mined.
Yearlong and seasonal residences occur along some stream reaches. Dredge mining has
reduced quality of pools and large woody debris is lacking. Dredge mining activity has reduced
large woody debris recruitment along some reaches. High summer water temperatures and
deposited sediment also reduce fish habitat quality.
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
The Forest Service last did an extensive survey of American River (upstream from BLM
boundary) in 1993 using the Nez Perce basin-wide methodology. During the survey
approximately 69 percent of its length was classified as a B type stream channel (Rosgen,
1994). The remaining portion was classified as C and A channel types, 24 percent and 7
percent, respectively. BLM has measured habitat conditions at fixed stations as late as 2000
and 2004. The 2000 data shows cobble embeddedness at 31 percent. The 2004 data was not
available at this time.
The Forest Service and BLM have completed various stream improvement projects along
several miles of the mainstem in the 1980s and early 1990s. These included installation of rock
check dams; log check dams, large woody debris, and habitat rock placement.
SUMMARY OF FISH SPECIES DISTRIBUTION
Map 8a displays fish distribution within the analysis area.
TABLE 3.50 - KNOWN AND SUSPECTED DISTRIBUTION OF TROUT, SALMON AND CHAR IN AMERICAN
RIVER
Stream Name
Middle American
River
Upper American
River
East Fork American
River
Kirks Fork
Whitaker Creek
Queen Creek
Flint Creek
Box Sing Creek
Lower American
River
Westslope
Cutthroat
Known Present
Known Present
Known Present
Known Present
Known Present
Known Present
Known Present
Known Present
Known Present
Bull Trout
Known Present
Known Present
Known Present
Known Present
Probably
Absent
Probably
Absent
Known Present
Probably
Absent
Known Present
Spring
Chinook
Known Present
Known Present
Known Present
Known Present
Known Absent
Known Absent
Known Present
Known Present
Known Present
Steel head
Known Present
Known Present
Known Present
Probably
Present
Known Absent
Known Absent
Known Present
Known Present
Known Present
Brook Trout
Known Present
Known Present
Known Present
Status unknown
Known Present
Status unknown
Known Present
Probably Present
Known Present
East Fork American River- Prescription Watershed -#17060305-05-10
East Fork American River flows into American River at river mile 10.6, and provides habitat for
steelhead, bull trout, spring chinook salmon, westslope cutthroat trout, brook trout, mountain
whitefish, sculpin, and dace. Bull trout use the stream for adult and sub adult rearing. Redd
surveys completed in 1999 and 2000 failed to document any confirmed bull trout redds, but
brook trout redds were found (NPNF unpublished data). Fish population surveys of the stream
in recent years by BLM, FS, and IDFG (IDFG, et a/, 1996-2003) have documented the presence
of bull trout, however, numbers were low and most fish were found in the middle reach. The
stream may be used for bull trout spawning and early rearing; further investigations are needed
for verification.
The lower to mid reaches of the stream flow through a timbered bottom with some stringer
meadows. A culvert installed at the mouth may be a partial/full fish passage barrier. A private
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
residence is located near the mouth. A trail parallels the creek. The lower reaches crossing
BLM and Forest Service lands are not leased for grazing.
The East Fork American River was surveyed by the BLM in 1992, from the mouth to Forest
Service boundary (stream mile 2.33). In 1993, the Forest Service surveyed from that point to
the headwaters. Both surveys used a modified Hankin and Reeves survey methodology
(Hankin and Reeves, 1988). The dominant channel type in lower reaches was B3 and unstable
stream banks were 2 percent.
The seven-day running average maximum temperature during steelhead and cutthroat
spawning periods for East Fork American River is 13.4 degrees C, and is rated high (SM 0.1 -
1995). No data on rearing temperatures are available for the middle reach, but spot monitoring
during bull trout distribution surveys in 1998 found cool water temperatures, which rated high for
steelhead and bull trout rearing. The seven-day running average maximum temperature for bull
trout spawning was 14.4 degrees C, and is rated low (SM 0.1 - 1995). The seven-day running
average maximum temperature for rearing is 16.1 degrees C, and is rated moderate for
steelhead and low for bull trout (SM 0.1 - 1995). Primary limiting factors include high levels of
deposited sediment and lack of good quality pools.
Recon surveys were conducted in 2003 in support of this project. The 2003 surveys included
Rosgen stream channel classification with Wolman pebble count data (Rosgen, 1994), stream
gradient and channel profiles. Cobble embeddedness was measured. R1 Stream Reach
Inventory and Channel Stability Evaluation forms (Pfankuch, 1978) were completed and the Nez
Perce Forest stream survey was also completed (USDA FS, 1995d). The Nez Perce Forest
Plan established a fish/water quality objective for this watershed of 90 percent habitat potential.
The Plan set the existing condition at 60 percent of potential, making this stream below its'
Forest Plan objective. Reduced cattle grazing in the watershed has improved fish habitat
conditions on the low gradient meadow reaches. High cobble embeddedness persists, pools
are limited and poor in quality and acting woody debris is also below objective (Table 3.51).
Kirks Fork - Prescription Watershed -#17060305-05-11
Kirks Fork flows into American River at river mile 6.9, and provides habitat for steelhead, bull
trout, spring chinook salmon, westslope cutthroat trout, brook trout, mountain whitefish, sculpin,
and dace. Bull trout use the stream for adult and sub adult rearing. Fish population surveys of
the stream in recent years by BLM, FS, and IDFG (1996 - 2003) have documented the presence
of bull trout, however, numbers were low. A fish passage barrier at all flows occurs at stream
mile 2.3 (18 foot falls/cascades).
The upper reaches of the stream consist of high quality westslope cutthroat trout habitat. The
lower reaches receive light grazing use; and roads and logging have impacted the stream to
varying levels. The limited amount of management activities in this watershed and the high
quality fish habitat is not reflected above with the Forest Plan showing this stream well below its'
fish/water quality objective of 90 percent of habitat potential. The plan shows existing conditions
at only 50 percent, while actual conditions are likely higher. A ford crosses the stream near the
mouth.
BLM monitoring of cobble embeddedness was 45 percent (stream mile 0.15 - 1995) and
spawning gravels had 30 percent fines less than 6.3 mm (1995). Kirks Fork was surveyed by
the BLM in 1992 from the mouth to Forest Service boundary (stream mile 0.55) (USDI BLM,
1999). The Forest Service surveyed from the BLM boundary upstream in 1991. Both surveys
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
used a modified Hankin and Reeves (1988) survey methodology. The Nez Perce Forest fish
habitat stream survey was completed in 2003.
The stream flows through a confined timbered stream bottom. The dominant channel type in
lower reaches was B3 and average gradient ranged from 2-3 percent, and unstable stream
banks varied from 3-5 percent. BLM data shows the seven-day running average maximum
temperature during steelhead and cutthroat spawning periods for Kirks Fork is 13.9 degrees C,
and is rated high (SM 0.05 - 1995). The seven-day running average maximum temperature for
bull trout spawning was 14.8 degrees C, and is rated low (SM 0.05 - 1995). The seven-day
running average maximum temperature for rearing was 16.7 degrees C, and was rated
moderate for steelhead and low for bull trout (SM 0.05 - 1995). The 2003 water temperature
data is displayed in Appendix E. Primary limiting factors include high levels of deposited
sediment and lack of good quality pools.
The Nez Perce Forest Plan established a fish/water quality objective for this watershed of 90
percent habitat potential. The Plan set the existing condition at 50 percent of potential, making
this stream below its' Forest Plan objective. The upper watershed has not been developed and
the stream supports a strong population of westslope cutthroat trout in these upper reaches (D.
Mays, Pre. comm.). It is likely that this stream exists at higher than 50 percent of potential as
stated in the Plan. Elements like cobble embeddedness and percent surface fines indicate
higher quality fish habitat (Table 3.51).
Whitaker Creek - Prescription Watershed-#17060305-05-12
Whitaker Creek flows into American River at river mile 8.5, and provides habitat for cutthroat
trout brook trout, dace and sculpin (Final Report YA-515-IA7-15, University of Idaho, 1978).
Dredge mining has altered the mouth of the stream leaving no above ground channel for the
stream. The stream flows enter American River sub-surface thus isolating the fish populations
above. Roads, logging, and mining have impacted the stream to varying levels. Two private
residences occur at the mouth of the creek. Extensive private land timber harvest has recently
(2003) impacted the watershed. Whitaker Creek was surveyed by the BLM in 1991 from the
mouth to FS boundary (stream mile 1.5) using a modified Hankin and Reeves (1988) survey
methodology (USDI BLM, 1999). The FS surveyed their lands upstream in 1989 using the
same methodology. Surveys were conducted for this analysis in 2003. The surveys included
R1 Stream Reach Inventory and Channel Stability Evaluation and Stream Reach
Reconnaissance Survey (Pfankuch, 1978)., and a Fish Habitat Recon Survey (USDA FS, 2000)
The BLM has completed surveys from the mouth to the headwaters in 2004. The stream flows
through a confined timbered stream bottom. The channel types starting from the mouth are C3
(short mouth area reach), B4, and A3; and average gradient ranges from 1 to 12 percent, and
unstable stream banks were less than 3 percent. Primary limiting factors include high levels of
deposited sediment, lack of good quality pools, and low flows.
The Nez Perce Forest Plan established a fish/water quality objective for this watershed of 70
percent habitat potential. The Plan set the existing condition at 70 percent of potential. Habitat
elements of cobble embeddedness and pool to riffle ratio remain in poor condition (Table 3.51).
Queen Creek - Prescription Watershed-#17060305-05-13
Queen Creek flows into American River at river mile 9.4, and provides habitat for cutthroat trout.
Dredge mining has altered the mouth area and the stream flows into a dredge pond and has no
connecting channel with American River. The stream flows subsurface through dredge tailings
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
into American River thus isolating the westslope cutthroat population. This stream was
electrofished in 2003 and high densities of resident fish were identified (22 westslope cutthroat
and 6 dace in a 23 square meter reach). Mining, roads, and logging have impacted the stream
to varying levels. Queen Creek was surveyed by the BLM in 1991 from the mouth to FS
mQm^lStr^nxmit°i7) USin9 3 m°dified Hankin and Reeves <1988) surveV methodology
(UbUl BLM, 1999). The BLM completed surveys from the mouth to the headwaters in 2004
The FS surveyed from the BLM upstream in 1989. Recon surveys were completed for this
project in 2003 these surveys included a Stream Reach Reconnaissance Survey (USDA FS
2000), R1 Stream Reach Inventory and Channel Stability Evaluation (Pfankuch 1978) Rosgen
Stream Channel Classification with Wolman pebble count and channel profiles (Rosgen 1994)
and cobble embeddedness measurements. The stream flows through a wide valley bottom at
the mouth, while upstream reaches flow through a confined timbered stream bottom The
channel types starting from the mouth are C2 (mouth area), B3, and A3; and average gradient
ranges from 2-7 percent, and unstable stream banks were less than 3 percent Primary limiting
factors include high levels of deposited sediment, lack of good quality pools, and low flows.
The lower miles of Queen Creek indicate that there has been a moderate level of disturbance
from past dredge mining and placer mining activities. Tailings piles are scattered in small piles
across the valley floor, and an old access road parallels the stream on the North side Both
Queen Creek and Whitaker Creek offer unique opportunities to study isolated populations of
westslope cutthroat trout. These paired watersheds are similar in size and share a history of
land disturbing activities.
The Nez Perce Forest Plan established a fish/water quality objective for this watershed of 70
percent habitat potential. The Plan set the existing condition at 70 percent. Habitat elements in
Table 3.24 below indicate this stream is likely at 70 percent of habitat potential.
Flint Creek - Prescription Watershed -#17060305-05-14
Flint Creek is a third order tributary of the East Fork American River. Flint Creek enters East
Fork American River from the North approximately 2 miles upstream of the confluence East
Fork American River and American River. Flint Creek is a low (0.5 percent) to moderate (4-6
percent) gradient stream. Flint Creek is primarily characterized as being Rosgen stream types
B and C with most channel slope gradients ranging from 0.5 percent to 7 percent There are
a few short sections of stream type "A" in the upper headwaters of the stream. The stream
flows through a "U" shaped valley formation. The upslope environment consists of moderately
steep (30-45 percent) mid elevation granitic uplands. Historic stream surveys from 1970 and
1982 indicated that there had been a high level of livestock grazing disturbance within the Flint
Creek drainage. The grazing strategies implemented as a result of the steelhead trout being
listed under ESA have improved stream bank stability in Flint Creek. The drainage has also had
large fire events in the 1800s and early 1900s. The Flint Creek Trail (Forest Service Trail #832)
parallels the stream beginning approximately 0.75 miles upstream of the confluence with East
Fork American River. Flint Creek supports westslope cutthroat and steelhead trout bull trout
and spring/summer chinook salmon. The FS surveyed Flint Creek using the basin-wide
methodology in 1989. Recon surveys and basin-wide surveys were also conducted in 2003 in
support of the American and Crooked River Project. The surveys included The R1 Stream
Reach Inventory and Channel Stability Evaluation (Pfankuch, 1978) Rosgen Stream Channel
Classification (Rosgen, 1994), and cobble embeddedness. Multiple redd surveys were
conducted in Flint Creek by the Red River District in 1999 and 2000. No confirmed bull trout
redds were observed, but brook trout redds were documented.
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The Nez Perce Forest Plan established a fish/water quality objective for this watershed of 90
percent habitat potential. The Plan set the existing condition at 40 percent of potential, making
this stream below its' Forest Plan objective. Reduced cattle grazing in the watershed has
improved fish habitat conditions on the low gradient meadow reaches. High cobble
embeddedness persists, pools are limited and poor in quality and acting woody debris is also
below objective (Table 3.51).
Box Sing Creek - Prescription Watershed -#17060305-05-15
Box Sing Creek flows into American River at river mile 8.5, and provides habitat for steelhead
and cutthroat trout. Dredge mining has altered the mouth area of the stream and the lower
segment flows across the dredge mined flood plain of American River. Roads and logging have
impacted the stream to varying levels. A ford crosses the stream near the mouth. Box Sing
Creek was surveyed by the BLM in 1991 from the mouth to FS boundary (stream mile 0.67)
using a modified Hankin and Reeves (1988) survey methodology. The FS surveyed the
upstream reaches using the same methodology in 1989. Recon surveys were conducted in
2003 in support to this project. Surveys included Stream Reach Reconnaissance Survey
(USDA FS, 2000), Rosgen Stream Channel Classification with channel profiles and Wolman
pebble count (Rosgen, 1994) and R1 Stream Reach Inventory and Channel Stability Evaluation
(Pfankuch, 1978). The stream flows through a confined timbered stream bottom. The dominant
channel type in lower reaches was B4 and average gradient was 2 percent, unstable stream
banks were less than 3 percent. Primary limiting factors include high levels of deposited
sediment, lack of good quality pools, and low flows. Box Sing is approximately 5.7 miles long.
The lower 2.0 miles of Box Sing Creek is moderately disturbed from past dredge mining and
placer mining activities. Tailings piles are scattered in small piles across the valley floor, and an
old access road parallels the stream on the North side.
The Nez Perce Forest Plan established a fish/water quality objective for this watershed of 70
percent habitat potential. The Plan set the existing condition at 70 percent. Habitat elements in
Table 3.51 below indicate low pool to riffle ratio and a stream lacking in acting woody debris.
Summary
Below is a summary of. conditions observed by both the BLM and FS for streams affected by
this action. Whitaker Creek and Queen Creek do not support steelhead and therefore percent
surface fines were not measured. All of the project area streams in American River accept
Whitaker Creek and Queen Creek are below their Forest Plan fish/water quality objectives
(Table 3.51 below).
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TABLE 3.51 - AMERICAN RIVER EXISTING CONDITION OF FISH HABITAT INDICATORS COMPARED TO OBJECTIVES
Prescription Watershed
Upper American River
1 7060305-05-09
Middle American River
17060305-05-06
Lower American River
17060305-05-16
East Fork American River
17060305-05-10
Kirks Fork
17060305-05-11
Whitaker Creek
17060305-05-12
Queen Creek
17060305-05-13
Flint Creek
17060305-05-14
Box Sing Creek
17060305-05-15
Cobble
Embeddedness %
(Forest Plan BO
standard)
<30
<30
<30
<30
<30
<40
<40
<30
<40
51
50
31
40
32
61
42
58
44
Pool: Riffle Ratio
(DFC Standard)
Objective
45:55
45:55
45:55
45:55
45:55
30:70
30:70
45:55
30:70
Existinq
13:87
29:71
20:80
20:80
33:67
5:95
9:91
20:80
7:93
Acting Large Woody
Debris/ pieces per
100m
(DFC Standard)
Objective
45
45
45
45
45
35
35
45
35
Existing
18
22
2
28
33
51
63
20
12
Percent Surface
Fines
(Steelhead/Bull Trout
Objective
<20
<20
<20
<20
<20
NA1
NA1
<20
<20
Existing
18
34
8
51
22
30
20
20
28
Deposited Sediment (Cobble Embeddedness and Percent Fines)
Using the above cobble embeddedness measurements, the FISHSED model was used to
estimate the existing conditions of summer and winter rearing habitat in American River and its'
tributaries affected by this action. As seen below, summer rearing is at or near objective for
most streams. Winter rearing however is well below objective and has been identified as a
primary limiting factor. Sediment settles in around the cobble, rubble substrate in low gradient
pool habitats and limits important holding areas for fish in the winter.
TABLE 3.52 - EXISTING CONDITION OF SELECT FISHSED VARIABLES, WHICH ARE RELEVANT TO
THE DEPOSITED SEDIMENT INDICATOR
Watershed Name/
Channel Type
Middle American River/ C
Lower American River/ C
East Fork American River/ C
Kirks Fork/ B
Whitaker Creek/ B
Queen Creek/ B
Flint Creek/ B
Box Sing Creek/ B
Existing Cobble
Embeddedness (%)2
50
31
40
32
61
42
58
44
Existing Summer
Rearing Capacity
83
83
94
89
93
75
88
77
87
Existing Winter Rearing
Capacity (Percent of
27
27
45
35
44
20
34
22
32
Steelhead do not currently use this system.
Existing cobble embeddedness was measured in the field.
3 Values derived from FISHSED Model.
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Habitat Connectivity/Fish Passage
Habitat connectivity will simply be a measure of increased stream miles displayed and perennial
or intermittent stream miles above culvert improvements. Not all sites involve fish passage.
Table 3.53 below displays a summary of existing stream crossings for American River.
TABLE 3.53 - EXISTING STREAM CROSSINGS AMERICAN RIVER
Watershed Name
Upper American River
Middle American River
Lower American River
Kirks Fork
Whitaker Creek
Queen Creek
Flint Creek
Box Sing Creek
Ephemeral
Crossings
2
6
2
4 -
2
4
1
Perennial
Crossings
1
7
8
2
2
1
7
1
Fish Bearing
Crossings
1
9
10
1
2
1
4
1
TOTAL
Total
Crossings
1
9
14
4
6
3
11
2
50
Water Quality/ Stream Temperatures
American River is currently not in compliance with the Idaho State Water Quality Standards (see
Appendix E and the Watershed above). Cold-water biota, salmonid spawning, and bull trout
criteria were exceeded in 2003 at each of the monitoring sites. Additionally, temperatures
exceeded temperature standards established with Amendment 20 of the Nez Perce Forest Plan.
This included both the 18°C migration and rearing maximum and 16°C spawning maximum
(Nez Perce Forest unpublished data 2003).
EXISTING CONDITION OF HABITAT CHARACTERISTICS AND ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS -
CROOKED RIVER
CROOKED RIVER
The watershed encompasses an area of approximately 45,659 acres with important aquatic
values. Mainstem Crooked River occupies a wide valley. Prior to development, this river likely
meandered across the valley bottom. The river was likely lined with abundant grasses, forbs
and woody vegetation providing stable banks and shade. The pool to riffle ratio was likely high
with complex and high quality pools providing good quality habitat. Crooked River has been
significantly affected by human activities primarily in the lower section (Lower Crooked River,
Relief Creek and Middle Crooked River). The predominant feature is the historic dredge mining
along and through the mainstem river, which has highly altered riparian processes and function.
In an undated report titled The Mount Vernon Dredge by Sharon A. Murray is a short history of
the bucketline dredge that mined Crooked River. The details in this report are not complete. It
shows the dredge working in Crooked River in 1938 and 1939 and again in 1942. The "boat"
was not active again until after the war in 1946. From 1947 until 1951 the dredge worked in
Red Horse Creek and Buffalo Gulch. The Mt. Vernon Dredge was moved back to Crooked
River in 1952 (above Relief Creek) and worked there until 1957. The report shows that over
2,000,000 cubic yards of material were dredged from the valley floor, producing over 12,000
ounces of gold and over 2,000 ounces of silver. The impact to the environment is still evident
today. A streamside road for most of its length further affects the mainstem of Crooked River.
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This streamside road encroaches on riparian and stream process for about half of its length
The upper half of the watershed is mostly unroaded with reaches in the upper watershed
supporting strong populations of westslope cutthroat trout and bull trout at some of the highest
densities in the sub basin. Steelhead spawning and juvenile rearing primarily occurs in the
mamstem and the lower 0.5 miles of each fork of Crooked River. The East and West Forks of
Crooked River are in nearly pristine condition.
Crooked River is considered a stronghold for westslope cutthroat, a habitat stronghold for bull
trout, and a historic stronghold for spring chinook and steelhead (USDA 1998).
Habitat complexity has been greatly reduced from the historic mining activities. In addition, road
233 parallels a 3.4 mile section of stream, within a narrow canyon. This road is a chronic' long
term sediment source and has also reduced the large woody debris recruitment in this stretch of
stream. Because of reduced habitat complexity and elevated cobble embeddedness levels
summer rearing and over wintering conditions are believed to be the limiting factors for fish.
The Nez Perce National Forest with funding provided by the Bonneville Power Administration
added approximately 400 habitat improvement structures in Crooked River during the 1980s (P
Siddall, 1992). About 30 percent of these are still functioning as intended (Clearwater
BioStudies, Inc., 1990) and provide improved fish habitat in many areas. Crooked River has
been subject to intensive monitoring (Intensive Evaluation and Monitoring of Chinook Salmon
and Steelhead Trout Production, Crooked River and Upper Salmon River Sites, 1995 Annual
Report). In this work IDFG fisheries biologist Russ Kiefer makes the following observations:
• Our research indicates that in streams degraded by dredge mining, connecting off-
channel ponds to the stream can increase the carrying capacity for chinook salmon parr
(Kiefer and Forster, 1991), and complex instream structures can increase the carrying
capacity for steelhead- trout parr (Kiefer and Lockhart, 1995a).
• We observed a shift in spawning areas by adult chinook salmon to cleaner gravel areas
produced by habitat rehabilitation structures in Crooked River (Kiefer and Lockhart,
1993). In streams with more than 30% sand in spawning areas, habitat structures that
collect cleaner gravel with less than 30% should increase smolt production.
• Complex habitat enhancement structures apparently can increase the carrying capacity
for age-7+ steelhead trout in streams with low habitat complexity. Dredge mining has
reduced the habitat complexity in the upper meadow section of Crooked River (Middle
Crooked RiverJ by forcing the channel against the canyon wall on the east side of the
meadow. We observed more than double the density ofage-1+ steelhead in complex
habitat study sites than we observed in control or simple sill log habitat sites in 1992
(Kiefer and Lockhart, 1995).
This project will include activities designed to improve existing habitat enhancement structures,
add additional structures and further improve riparian and stream conditions impacted by past
mining activities.
The aquatic habitat condition in the upper watershed is good, supporting strong populations of
westslope cutthroat trout, and bull trout at some of the highest densities in the sub basin.
Although the habitat condition of the mainstem is low, it continues to support steelhead and
spring chinook. Brook trout, present primarily in the upper West Fork and in the lower
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
mainstem, pose a risk to downstream bull trout and westslope cutthroat trout (USDA FS,
1998a).
Idaho Department of Fish and Game Facilities: A weir and fish-trapping facility, part of the
Lower Snake River Compensation Project, are located on Crooked River approximately 1/2 mile
upstream from the mouth. A rearing facility with acclimation ponds and a settling pond for
wastes is approximately 10 miles further upstream.
SUMMARY OF FISH SPECIES DISTRIBUTION
Steelhead trout are present in all of the prescription watersheds. Bull trout have been observed
in Lower and Middle Crooked River, lower Silver Creek and Relief Creek. They also use the
South Fork Clearwater River for migration and rearing from October through June (IDFG
unpublished data). Map 8b displays fish distribution within the analysis area.
TABLE 3.54 - KNOWN AND SUSPECTED DISTRIBUTION OF TROUT, SALMON AND CHAR IN CROOKED RIVER
Stream Name
Lower Crooked River
Relief Creek
Middle Crooked River
Silver Creek
Quartz Creek
Westslope
Cutthroat
Known Present
Known Present
Known Present
Known Present
Known Present
Bull Trout
Known Present
Known Present
Known Present
Known Present
Probably
Absent
Spring
Chinook
Known Present
Known Present
Known Present
Probably
Present
Probably
Present
Steelhead
Known Present
Known Present
Known Present
Known Present
Known Present
Brook Trout
Known Present
Status
unknown
Known Present
Status
unknown
Status
unknown
Lower Crooked River Prescription Watershed #17060305-03-01
Landforms associated with Lower Crooked River suggest that the stream should primarily be a
Rosgen stream type "C". Observations indicate that Lower Crooked River should have a well-
developed floodplain, be a slightly entrenched stream and be relatively sinuous with channel
slopes of 2 percent or less. Historical mining disturbance has altered floodplain development,
indicated by the presence of large mine tailings dispersed haphazardly across the valley floor.
The Lower Crooked River sub watershed is 9487 acres in size and includes the mainstem of
Crooked River and sixteen 1st order tributaries, five 2nd order tributaries and two 3rd order
tributaries. Included in these tributaries are unnamed streams referred to in this document as
Section 11 and Section 14. The high pool to riffle ratio (Table 3.55) reflects the large meander
pools created by historic dredge mining. While occupying a high percentage of the stream area,
these are poor quality pools void of cover with sand bottoms, providing limited fish habitat
(Table 3.56).
The Nez Perce Forest Plan established a fish/water quality objective for this watershed of 90
percent habitat potential. The Plan set the existing condition at 50 percent of potential, making
this stream below its' Forest Plan objective (Table, 3.55). High cobble embeddedness persists.
Large pools have been created at the meander bends by past dredge mining. These pools are
sand bottom with little to no cover. Acting woody debris is very limited in this reach. Bank cover
and potential woody debris are also very limited
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Relief Creek- Prescription Watershed #17060305-03-03
Relief Creek is a low gradient stream encompassing 7475 acres. Relief Creek enters Middle
Crooked River 6.8 miles upstream of the confluence of Crooked River and South Fork
Clearwater River. Relief Creek from its confluence with Crooked River upstream approximately
1.4 miles is a low relief stream that has been highly disturbed by dredge mining activities. The
mine tailings from dredge activities were dispersed entirely across the valley floor. Often times
the tailings were mechanically piled to form long continuous pilings along one side of the valley
floor or the other. These piles are approximately 10 feet high, and have literally cut off the
upslope drainage characteristics of the lower reaches of Relief Creek. This disturbance activity
has likely interrupted the natural water yield and timing of the drainage. During the mechanical
piling process the tailings located adjacent to the stream were heavily compacted resulting in a
loss of vegetation along the stream banks, as well as, a loss of stream channel sinuosity.
Floodplam development has also been interrupted because of the high level of disturbance
associated with the dredge mining activities. Presently the lower reach of Relief Creek is a
Rosgen stream type "B". Road construction and timber harvest activities have resulted in high
levels of cobble embeddedness, and depositional filling of the pool areas.
In 1989, approximately 200+ rock and log weirs were installed in Relief Creek from the mouth of
Relief Creek upstream to the confluence of the East Fork Relief (1.4 miles). The objective of
this fish habitat improvement program included creation of pool habitat, establishment of flows
conducive to deposition of cobbles suitable for spawning and improved sediment transport
capabilities. During the 2003 field season, a preliminary field review indicates that most of the
rock structures have been altered by high flows. The log structures are still in place according
to the original design and placement and are creating some additional scour pools. The existing
high numbers of acting debris are associated with these improvement structures. Surveys in
support of this project were conducted in 2003, including a Stream Reach Reconnaissance
Survey, Nez Perce Forest Fish Habitat Survey, Rosgen Stream Channel Classification, cobble
embeddedness, and R1 Stream Reach Inventory and Channel Stability Evaluation. The water
temperature data is displayed in Appendix B. The Nez Perce Forest Plan established a
fish/water quality objective for this watershed of 90 percent habitat potential. The Plan set the
existing condition at 60 percent of potential, making this stream below its' Forest Plan objective.
Habitat alteration from historic mining combined with high levels of fine sediment and loss of
connectivity are primary limiting factors in Relief Creek. This project is designed to improve
conditions tied to these elements.
Middle Crooked River- Prescription Watershed - #17060305-03-04
This prescription watershed includes the mainstem of Crooked River from the top of the narrows
to Orogrande (see map 7b) This is not a true watershed; true watersheds include all lands
draining through a stream reach. This prescription watershed drains only the center lands of the
Crooked River watershed. Several named tributaries enter Crooked River through this section
including Sawmill, Silver, Quartz, Baker Gulch, Rainbow Gulch, Five Mile and Umatilla Creeks.
A short summary of each of the tributaries affected by this action is included below. The
existing condition DFC and RMO analysis is based on mainstem Crooked River fish habitat
conditions surveyed in 1990 as well as recon surveys conducted in 2003. Stream survey
information gathered in 2003 will describe conditions in Silver Creek and Quartz Creek. Forest
Plan Appendix A has identified Middle Crooked River as meeting its objective with habitat
conditions at 90 percent of optimum. This is likely an error in the plan as it is well recognized
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
that the dredge mining of the mainstem, combined with past reading and timber harvest, have
simplified the fish habitat well below the 90 percent level, as identified below (Table 3.55)
Sawmill Creek
Sawmill Creek enters Middle Crooked River 8.3 miles upstream of the confluence of Crooked
River and the South Fork Clearwater River. Sawmill Creek is 1.89 miles long and can be
characterized as a Rosgen "B" stream type. No fish were observed in this small stream.
Surveys completed in 2003 include a Stream Reach Reconnaissance Survey and a R-1 Stream
Reach Inventory and Channel Stability Evaluation. The R1 Stream Reach Inventory and
Channel Stability Evaluation (Pfankuch, 1978). found this stream in "fair" condition, cobble
embeddedness was estimated at 40 percent and water temperature was 12 degrees centigrade
on July 15 at 1130 hours.
Silver Creek
Silver Creek is a moderate to high gradient stream entering Crooked River 9.2 miles upstream
of the confluence of Crooked River with South Fork Clearwater River. Silver Creek is
characterized as a Rosgen stream type "B" with channel slope gradients ranging from 1.5 to 5
percent. There are a few short sections of stream type "C" in the lower 2.0 miles of the stream,
and some relatively short sections of stream type "A" in the middle to upper portions of the
watershed. Silver Creek supports steelhead and bull trout. The upper reaches support a strong
westslope cutthroat trout population (D. Mays per. comm.). Surveys in support of this project
were conducted in 2003, including a Stream Reach Reconnaissance Survey (USDA FS, 2000),
Nez Perce Forest Fish Habitat Survey (USDA FS, 1995d), Rosgen Stream Channel
Classification (Rosgen, 1994), cobble embeddedness, and Rl Stream Reach Inventory and
Channel Stability Evaluation (Pfankuch, 1978). Fish habitat is limited by increased fine
sediment and poor quality pool habitat.
Quartz Creek
Quartz Creek is a low (2 percent) to high (4-20 percent) gradient stream entering Crooked River
10.2 miles upstream of the confluence of Crooked River with South Fork Clearwater River.
Quartz Creek can be primarily characterized as a Rosgen stream type "B" with short sections of
stream type "C" in the upper headwaters of the stream, and some relatively short sections of
stream type "A" in the middle to upper portions of the watershed. Surveys in support of this
project were conducted in 2003, including a Stream Reach Reconnaissance Survey (USDA FS,
2000), Nez Perce Forest Fish Habitat Survey (USDA FS, 1995a), Rosgen Stream Channel
Classification (Rosgen, 1994), cobble embeddedness, and R1 Stream Reach Inventory and
Channel Stability Evaluation (Pfankuch, 1978).
Quartz Creek has experienced a history of mining and logging activities. The lower reach is
privately owned, supporting several seasonal/full time residences. The stream inventories
identified both channel degradation and aggradation occurring within various reaches of the
stream. The historic mining disturbance, coupled with past timber harvest activities within the
drainage, appear to have contributed to channel degradation through accelerated bank erosion,
increased sediment supply and decreased sediment transport capabilities.
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Summary
Below is a summary of the conditions inventoried for Crooked River streams affected bv this
action. '
TABLE 3.55 - CROOKED RIVER EXISTING CONDITION OF FISH HABITAT INDICATORS COMPARED TO OBJECTIVES
Prescription
Watershed
17060305-03-01
Relief Creek
17060305-03-03
Middle Crooked River
17060305-03-04
Silver Creek1
Quartz Creek1
Embeddedness %
(Forest Plan BO
standard)
Existing
<30
<30
<30
<30
<30
80
55
35
55
49
PoolrRiffle Ratio
(DFC Standard)
Objective
45:55
45:55
45:55
45:55
45:55
Existing
52:48
21:79
36:64
56:44
23:77
Acting Large Woody
Debris/ pieces per
100m
(DFC Standard)
45
45
45
45
45
8
51
6
87
75
Percent Surface Fines
(Steelhead/Bull Trout
Matrix Standard)
<20
<20
<20
<20
<20
Not Available
55
Not Available
15
15
Deposited Sediment (Cobble Embeddedness and Percent Fines)
Using the above cobble embeddedness measurements, the FISHSED model was used to
estimate the existing conditions of summer and winter rearing habitat in American River and its'
tributaries affected by this action. As seen below, summer rearing is at or near objective for
most streams. Winter rearing however is well below objective and has been identified as a
primary limiting factor. Sediment settles in around the cobble, rubble substrate in low gradient
pool habitats and limits important holding areas for fish in the winter.
TABLE 3.56 - EXISTING CONDITION OF SELECT FISHSED VARIABLES, WHICH ARE RELEVANT TO
THE DEPOSITED SEDIMENT INDICATOR
Watershed Name/
Channel Type
Lower Crooked River/ C
Relief Creek/ B
Middle Crooked River/ C
Silver Creek/ B
Quartz Creek/ B
Existing Cobble
Embeddedness
<%)2
804
55
35
55
49
Existing Summer
Rearing Capacity
(Percent of
Optimal)3
56
80
92
80
84
Existing Winter
Rearing Capacity
(Percent of
Optimal)3
12
24
40
24
28
These streams are not prescription watersheds, although they are true watersheds.
2 Existing cobble embeddedness was measured in the field
3 Values derived from FISHED Model
1 Dredge mined channel, highly altered
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
Habitat Connectivity/Fish Passage
Habitat connectivity will simply be a measure of increased stream miles displayed and perennial
or intermittent stream miles above culvert improvements. Not all sites involve fish passage.
TABLE 3.57 - EXISTING STREAM CROSSINGS CROOKED RIVER
Watershed Name
Lower Crooked River
Relief Creek
Middle Crooked River
Ephemeral
Crossings
15
17
9
Perennial
Crossings
8
5
24
Fish Bearing
Crossings
6
6
11
TOTAL
Total
Crossings
23
22
33
78
Water Quality/ Stream Temperature
Crooked River is currently not in compliance with the Idaho State Water Quality Standards for
stream temperatures (see Section 3.2 - Watershed and Appendix E). Cold-water biota,
salmonid spawning, and bull trout criteria were exceeded in 2003 at the monitoring sites.
Additionally, temperatures exceeded temperature standards established with Amendment 20 of
the Nez Perce Forest Plan during 2003. This included both the 18°C migration and rearing
maximum and 16°C spawning maximum (Nez Perce Forest unpublished data 1999-2000).
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
INTRODUCTION
This section will describe the effects of this action on fish and fish habitat and the methods used
to analyze the changes to this habitat as a result of the American and Crooked River project.
This general discussion will be followed by a detailed description for the two river systems
(American River and Crooked River). This will be followed by a discussion of cumulative
effects.
INDICATOR 1 - SEDIMENT/SUBSTRATE ANALYSIS
Predicted increases in surface sediment yield, using the NEZSED sediment model, were used
to calculate potential increases in cobble embeddedness and corresponding decreases in
summer and winter rearing capacity using mathematical relationships in the FISHSED model.
The limitations of both the NEZSED and FISHSED models are detailed in Appendix E. These
changes were calculated for each alternative and are a reflection of the amount of sediment
expected as a result of surface sediment erosion. Sediment from other sources, including bank
erosion, mass movement (landslides), instream improvements, and other non road related
improvement activities are not reflected in the model.
The FISHSED model includes calculations for fish embryo survival, summer rearing capacity,
and winter rearing capacity. Fish embryo survival is an estimate of predicted fine sediment by
depth in cobble stream bottoms. Summer and winter rearing capacity reflect how the degree of
fine sediment in the stream bottom affects the stream's ability to support fish during these times
of year. For the American and Crooked River analysis area, the model was not used to
measure changes in fish embryo survival because percent fine sediment by depth data, which
are measurements (substrate core data) initially collected in the field, were not available.
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
Model results, as displayed below, are reasonable estimates and not absolute numbers with
high statistical precision. The capability of the FISHSED model in analyzing and displaying
change at the levels shown in these tables is somewhat limited. In this case, data from
FISHSED are most useful in comparing the relative effects among alternatives. The model also
reflects short-term changes only and does not reflect long-term benefits in sediment reduction
as predicted by NEZSED. The results must be used in combination with sound professional
judgment.
All modeling was conducted for age 0+ steelhead trout. The data shown for Alternative A is the
existing condition.
WATERSHED AND STREAM RESTORATION
For a complete listing of the activities covered in this section, please refer to Chapter 2 and
Appendix D. In general, these actions are associated with areas within streamside riparian
areas. In-channel work is planned for up to 14.6 miles of stream. Listed (ESA) fish are present
in the area. The in channel disturbance from this work would cause some previously deposited
sediment at the work sites to be reintroduced to the stream. This short-term impact must be
weighed against the long-term benefit as illustrated above with road obliteration. The NEZSED
model is not designed for use with instream projects, soil restoration, watershed improvements
or culvert removal/replacement.
Mitigation measures are designed to minimize the short-term sediment being introduced.
Aquatic specialists on the Forest would review project designs for all activities planned under
this section. Forest personnel would monitor the implementation and effectiveness of this work.
In-channel activities may also result in disturbance to individual fish, both within the immediate
work area and downstream. Increased turbidity during work may locally affect individual fish but
would not be at a magnitude where serious harm or mortality would occur. Timing restrictions
for in-channel work would result in avoidance of spawning fish or occupied redds.
INDICATOR 2 - LARGE WOODY DEBRIS ANALYSIS
Most woody debris requirement in this landscape comes from the streamside zone. Landslides
and debris torrents are uncommon in this terrain. No timber harvest is proposed in streamside
RHCAs, therefore no change is expected in potential woody debris while acting woody debris
would actually increase along with the miles of instream habitat improvement work.
INDICATOR 3 - POOL ANALYSIS
Sediment impacts to pool habitat will be discussed in the sediment analysis. Actual pools and
pool quality will improve along with the amount of instream habitat improvements.
INDICATOR 4 - WATER YIELD ANALYSIS
The existing conditions and a detailed analysis of this indicator are found above in the
Watershed section. Increased water yield is one indicator used to assess potential effects
among the alternatives, and it is a rough predictor of potential adverse changes in channel
condition and instream habitat. The concept of equivalent clearcut area (EGA) is often used as
a surrogate for quantitative water yield analysis. The effect on water yield is estimated by
calculating the loss of forest canopy in a watershed following disturbance.
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
The National Marine Fisheries Service (USDI NOAA-NMFS, 1995) suggests that an EGA of 15
percent is cause for concern in priority watersheds. The Matrix of Pathways and Indicators of
Watershed Condition (NOAA Fisheries et al, 1998) identifies less than 15 percent EGA as high
habitat condition; 15-20 percent EGA as moderate habitat condition; and greater than 20
percent as low habitat condition. These thresholds were promulgated to provide a conservative
approach to water yield that would avoid the following undesirable effects on stream habitat
condition: accumulation of streambed materials (aggradation), channel braiding, channel down
cutting, and increased bank erosion. These phenomena may collectively or singularly
contribute to increased width/depth ratio, decreased number of pools, decreased pool quality,
and overall simplification of instream habitat (Chamberlin et al, 1991).
INDICATOR 5 - WATER QUALITY ANALYSIS
Toxics
Water quality in the project area could be affected by introduction of toxic materials to streams.
Introduction of toxic materials could result in a direct adverse effect on aquatic resources, but
this is highly unlikely due to the required design and mitigation measures designed to prevent
spills. Stream Temperatures
Temporary road crossings in streamside riparian areas could affect stream temperature in the
project area, if these activities result in a significant reduction in shade to the stream. Reduction
in stream shading is a potential indirect effect. Further increases in stream temperature would
adversely affect the existing aquatic species assemblage, even though some studies suggest
that increased solar radiation and higher stream temperatures could positively affect stream
productivity (Farrell et al., 1996). Beneficial effects from temperature increases, however, would
probably only occur where existing temperatures are very low. At the sites where data was
collected, summer stream temperatures in the American and Crooked River area currently do
not meet standards (see Section 3.2 - Watershed).
INDICATOR 6 - HABITAT CONNECTIVITY/PASSAGE ANALYSIS
Appendix D contains information on culvert replacements included with this action. The amount
of improvement varies by alternative. The analysis below will display increased stream miles
either accessible to fish or improved for passage of 100 year flood flows.
3.3.1. AMERICAN RIVER ANALYSIS OF EFFECTS
3.3.1.1. INDICATOR 1 - SEDIMENT/SUBSTRATE ANALYSIS
The analysis of effects on fish habitat from increased sediment is based on the Watershed
analysis of sediment in the Watershed section above. The model results displayed below in
Tables 3.58-3.60 display existing conditions with high cobble embeddedness and poor winter
rearing capacity. The results of FISHSED show slight increases in cobble embeddedness and
corresponding decreases in summer and winter rearing capacity for all fish-bearing streams
under all action alternatives. Modeled activities include temporary road construction, road
reconstruction, timber harvest and road decommissioning. It does not include site treatments
for watershed restoration,, and roadside salvage. The FISHSED model showed no difference
between Alternative D with or without the additional restoration included from Alternative E.
This is a reflection of the models' limitations, not the amount of actual on the ground
improvements. Alternative A reflects the existing conditions.
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
TABLE 3.58 - COMPARISON OF PREDICTED COBBLE EMBEDDEDNESS (CE) BY ALTERNATIVE
Stream/Composite/Channel type
Middle American River/C
Lower American River/C
East Fork American River/C
Kirks Fork/B
Whitaker Creek/B
Queen Creek/B
Flint Creek/B
Box Sing Creek/B
Predicted Percent (%) CE by Alternative
A
50
31
40
32
61
42
47
44
B
52
34
42
33
64
46
49
47
C
52
34
43
33
65
47
49
47
D
52
34
43
33
64
47
49
47
E
52
34
42
33
64
46
49
46
TABLE 3.59 - COMPARISON OF SUMMER REARING CAPACITY (SRC) BY ALTERNATIVE
Stream/Composite/Channel Type
Middle American River/C
Lower American River/C
East Fork American River/C
Kirks Fork/B .
Whitaker Creek/B
Queen Creek/B
Flint Creek/B
Box Sing Creek/B
Predicted Percent (%) SRC by Alternative
A
83
94
89
93
75
88
85
87
B
82
93
88
93
72
86
84
85
C
82
93
88
93
72
85
84
85
D
82
93
88
93
72
85
84
85
E
82
93
88
93
72
86
84
86
TABLE 3.60 - COMPARISON OF WINTER REARING CAPACITY (WRC) BY ALTERNATIVE
Stream/Composite
Middle American River/C
Lower American River/C
East Fork American River/C
Kirks Fork/B
Whitaker Creek/B
Queen Creek/B
Flint Creek/B
Box Sing Creek/B
Predicted % WRC by Alternative
A
27
45
35
44
20
34
29
32
B
26
42
33
43
19
31
28
29
C
26
42
33
43
19
30
28
29
D
26
42
33
43
19
29
28
29
E
26
42
33
43
19
30
28
29
Predicted increases in cobble embeddedness are not at a magnitude where measurable
changes would be expected to occur, and differences between the action alternatives, as
modeled, are all within the margin of error for the model. The FISHSED analysis and the
numbers above do show a trend in the action alternatives with Alternative E showing the least
effect and Alternative D the most. There is also slight difference between Alternative A (no
action) and the action alternatives, reflecting the short term spike from the actions, including the
modeled restoration activities.
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The basic model assumption behind FISHSED is that an inverse relationship exists between the
amount of fine sediments in spawning and rearing habitats and fish survival and abundance. In
general, when sediment yields are increased over natural rates in Idaho batholith watersheds,
especially on a sustained basis, fish biomass decreases. Fine sediment is known to degrade
salnionid spawning and rearing habitat (Chapman and McCleod, 1987; Bjornn and Reiser,
1991), as suggested by the FISHSED model. Specifically, high sediment levels can impair
habitat for spawning and rearing by:
(1) Trapping fry in redds when they are attempting to emerge;
(2) Depleting intergravel oxygen levels in redds, smothering eggs contained within;
(3) Limiting aquatic invertebrate populations used a food source;
(4) Filling and thereby reducing the number of large pools which serve as primary feeding
and resting areas for juvenile salmonids; and
(5) Filling spaces between rocks that serve as over wintering refuge for juvenile salmonids
(USDI NOAA-NMFS, 1998).
We expect that changes in substrate condition from (modeled) increased surface sediment yield
are not of an amount that effects on fish would occur. Although, recent findings suggest that
there is no threshold below which increased fine-sediment delivery will be harmless (Suttle,
2004). That study also found that sediment reduction could produce immediate benefits for
salmonid restoration. When combining the modeled activities with the improvements, increased
sediment is likely.
An important concept in assessing effects on fish habitat from increases in surface sediment
erosion for this project is that both the FISHSED and NEZSED models represent peak sediment
yields, which in this case are temporary. The final result of the project would be reduced road
density and improvement in various existing baseline conditions, including a reduction in
sediment yield and delivery to salmonid habitat. The consequence of long-term improvement in
watershed condition is a short-term increase, or pulse, in surface sediment yield, which must
occur in order for the long-term goal of improvement to occur. Short-term risks of increased
sediment yields have been considered in the context of long-term improvement in watershed
and stream habitat condition.
DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS
ALTERNATIVE A (No ACTION ALTERNATIVE)
Under the 'no action' alternative, the existing substrate condition would probably improve slowly
over time. Improvements in the watershed would occur as funding was available and substrate
conditions in streams would likely remain the same or slowly be reduced. The risk of severe,
stand-replacing wildfire would remain high or increase over time in the absence of vegetation
treatments. With severe wildfire, there are risks of large pulses of sediment delivered rapidly to
streams, which could adversely affect habitat already impaired by past human activities.
Benefits of Alternative A include no further ground-disturbing activities, which would result in no
additional pulses of sediment. However this alternative would not address the need for active
stream, watershed and soils restoration.
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ALTERNATIVES
Under Alternative B, a pulse of sediment is expected, but this pulse is the second lowest of the
action alternatives and would result in the second lowest short-term risks to fish habitat.
Improvements would occur under this alternative but somewhat reduced from those included in
Alternative C, D and E. Improvements would lead toward recovery (see Appendix E), and fish
habitat conditions would likely improve. This alternative was designed to present the least
short-term risk to aquatic species by avoiding long sections of temporary road construction and
avoiding timber harvest in units posing risk to the aquatic resources. This alternative would
construct approximately 4 miles less temporary road than Alternatives C and D. Soil restoration
activities, culvert improvements, and native vegetation restoration, would improve watershed
condition. The reduced baseline sediment yield resulting from road decommissioning and other
improvement activities would aid in recovery of the watersheds.
Since no timber harvest is proposed within high-risk landslide prone and streamside RHCAs, no
short-term increase in risk of mass wasting and landslide type disturbances is expected to
occur.
ALTERNATIVE C
Under Alternative C, the percent over base sediment would increase the second most as a
result of the short-term peak associated with the implementation of activities. Various soil
restoration treatments, fish passage improvements, and native vegetation restoration, would still
improve watershed condition. The reduced baseline sediment yield resulting from road
decommissioning and other improvement activities would aid in recovery of the watersheds, and
it is expected that fish habitat conditions would improve over time. The amount of sediment
yield reduction is generally slight with corresponding improvements in substrate condition also
expected to be slight. The most significant reduction in sediment yield'is expected in Queen
Creek.
No timber harvest is proposed within streamside and wetland RHCAs and high-risk landslide
prone RHCAs.
ALTERNATIVE D
Under Alternative D, the percent over base sediment would increase the most as a result of the
short-term peak associated with the implementation of the modeled activities. While this
alternative includes the complete aquatic restoration improvement package, it also poses the
greatest risk to aquatics by building the most temporary roads and harvesting the most acres. .
Soil restoration activities, fish passage improvements, and native vegetation restoration, would
improve watershed condition similar to alternative E.. The reduced baseline sediment yield
resulting from road decommissioning and other improvement activities would aid in recovery of
the watersheds, and it is expected that fish habitat conditions would improve over time. The
amount of sediment yield reduction is generally slight with corresponding improvements in
substrate condition also expected to be slight. The most significant reduction in sediment yield
is expected in Queen Creek.
ALTERNATIVE E
Under Alternative E, no harvest is proposed within unroaded landscapes. This restricted timber
harvest is coupled with the complete restoration package and provides for the most
improvement (upward trend) in fish habitat and water quality. This expected reduction in activity
related sediment yield is the greatest in Flint Creek, East Fork American River, and Queen
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Creek. Particularly in the first two prescription watersheds, Flint Creek and East Fork American
River. The reduction in activity generated sediment and expected improvement in aquatic
condition is greater than any of the other alternatives.
No timber harvest is proposed in streamside or high risk landslide prone RHCAs.
3.3.1.2. INDICATOR 2 - LARGE WOODY DEBRIS ANALYSIS
DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS
ALTERNATIVES A, B, C, D, AND E
No instream improvement work is planned in American River with this project. PACFISH
guidance would be applied to streamside, landslide prone and wetland RHCAs. Acting and
potential woody debris would not be changed.
3.3.1.3. INDICATOR 3 - POOL ANALYSIS
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
ALTERNATIVE A
This alternative would not allow for watershed improvement projects to be implemented.
Existing non-point sediment sources would slowly recover over time and pool habitat would
slowly improve.
ALTERNATIVES B, C,D,E
No instream improvement work is planned in American River. Pool habitats would be impacted
slightly, in the short term, by deposited sediment. See sediment/substrate (FISHSED) analysis
above for details. Watershed improvement projects and road decommissioning would reduce
sediment sources and would likely improve pool habitat over time.
3.3.1.4. INDICATOR 4 - WATER YIELD ANALYSIS
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
The Watershed section above discusses changes in EGA for affected watersheds in the project
area. Alternative A displays the existing condition for each watershed. None of the alternatives
propose increases in water yield that is expected to result in channel degradation or long term
impacts to fish habitat.
ALTERNATIVE A
Under this alternative, EGA and any changes in water yield from past activities would continue
to recover, except for areas affected by past tractor logging, dozer piling, and soil compaction.
These areas are affected by low soil infiltration rates and may not recover in the absence of soil
and other watershed restoration efforts. In addition, existing roads would continue to contribute
towards EGA, and recovery, if any, would occur extremely slowly in the absence of road
decommissioning and soil restoration. Lack of vegetation treatments may contribute to
continued accumulation of fuels, potentially resulting in stand-replacing wildfires, which,
depending on size, severity, and location, could result in significant water yield changes!
Significant water yield changes could result in adverse effects on habitat not fully recovered
from past impacts.
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The benefits of this alternative, with respect to EGA and water yield, include no short-term
changes in EGA and thus, no potential short-term changes in water yield and habitat condition.
ALTERNATIVE B, C, D, E
EGA would increase as a result of implementation of these alternatives. The rate of increase is
similar for all watersheds. Overall, Alternative D shows the largest increase in EGA and
Alternative E shows the smallest. Road decommissioning and soil restoration contribute to a
reduction in compaction, thus improving infiltration and reducing surface runoff. This effect
would be most pronounced in Alternative E and least in Alternative B. The Biological Opinion
for Land and Resource Management Plans set 15 percent EGA as a threshold, which triggers a
watershed assessment. Queen Creek, which supports an isolated population of westslope
cutthroat trout and no listed steelhead or bull trout, does exceed this threshold. However, that
guidance was directed at watersheds supporting listed fish. Stream surveys indicate the
channel is stable and resilient, capable of withstanding slight increases in water yield. Soil and
watershed restoration activities would hasten recovery of water yield.
3.3.1.5. INDICATOR 5 - WATER QUALITY ANALYSIS (Toxics AND TEMPERATURE)
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
Toxics
ALTERNATIVE A
Under this alternative, no use of herbicides, fuels, or any fire suppression chemicals is proposed
above current levels. The risk of these materials entering streams would remain unchanged
from the existing condition.
ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, E
Toxic materials used under the action alternatives include herbicides and fossil fuel derivatives,
including diesel fuel, hydraulic fuel, various petroleum-based lubricants, and gasoline.
The two factors determining the degree of risk from toxic materials are the toxicity of the
chemical and the likelihood that non-target organisms would be exposed to toxic doses (Norris,
et al, 1991). Toxicity alone does not make a chemical hazardous; exposure to a toxic dose
must also occur. Chemicals may enter water by one or more of the following routes: direct
application, drift, and mobilization in ephemeral stream channels, overland flow, and leaching
(Norris, et al, 1991).
Since no aerial application of herbicides is proposed, and hand application of herbicides would
be restricted in streamside RHCAs, all the above mechanisms for delivery to streams are
unlikely to occur. Given constraints on application of herbicides, introduction of herbicides to
water, particularly in concentrations necessary to elicit an effect on aquatic organisms, is highly
unlikely. The toxicities of the various herbicides proposed for use under the action alternatives,
with their respective levels of concern, are contained in the American and Crooked River project
file.
In addition, fueling and storage of fuels is addressed with specific project design and mitigation
measures detailed in Table 2.3 above. Transport of fuels is regulated through mitigation that
minimizes the risk of accidents or accidental introduction of these materials to streams.
Therefore, the risk of fuel delivery to streams is considered extremely unlikely to occur.
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STREAM TEMPERATURES
ALTERNATIVE A
Stream temperatures in American River area would remain unchanged over the short-term.
Some improvement may occur over time as vegetation recovers in areas where shade has been
reduced from past activities or where dredge mining has resulted in over-widened, shallow
streams.
ALTERNATIVE B, C, D, E
Since harvest of timber within streamside RHCAs is not proposed under any of these
alternatives, the risk of effect on stream temperature is discountable, or extremely unlikely to
occur.
These alternatives have about the same effect. Stream buffers following Forest Plan
Amendment 20 would be implemented for all alternatives. This, in combination with restoration,
should moderate current stream temperature levels, and possibly decrease stream temperature
in the long-term if climatic conditions do not over ride the benefits.
3.3.1.6. INDICATOR 6 - HABITAT CONNECTIVITY/FISH PASSAGE ANALYSIS
The American and Crooked River project area offers' limited opportunities for increasing
connectivity of fish populations. Exceptions to this are Queen, Whitaker and Telephone Creeks
in American River. Dredge mining has blocked access to these streams from the mainstem
American River. BLM is currently proposing to connect these systems through their Eastside
and related Projects. Some culverts have been identified and are included with the restoration
activities associated with this action. Projects include hardening of existing fords as well as
replacing culverts to allow for high flows and passage of aquatic biota. Increasing connectivity
allows individual fish to migrate in and out of tributaries to seek cool water. Increased
connectivity also promotes genetic exchange between populations thus potentially increasing
diversity .
TABLE 3.61 - AMERICAN RIVER MILES OF STREAM WITH IMPROVED ACCESS.
Alternative
B
C
D
E
Perennial
1.8
1.8
3.0
3.0
Intermittent
.1
.1
1.5
1.5
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
ALTERNATIVE A
The 'no action' alternative would rely on existing road maintenance funds to replace, remove or
repair existing culverts. Funding for the road maintenance program is currently limited and little
of this work would likely be accomplished. Accomplished work would occur over a period of
many years due to funding limitations. Alternatives B, C,
ALTERNATIVES B, C
Road decommissioning and culvert replacement planned with these alternatives would remove
problem culverts.
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These alternatives allow for proper sized culvert installation at 3 sites, increasing fish access to
1.8 miles of stream.
ALTERNATIVE D AND £
Road decommissioning and culvert replacement planned with these alternatives would remove
ten problem culverts. In Alternative D, seven of the ten culverts would be additional and
replacement would depend on their priority in the basin coupled with available funding. These
alternatives offer the most improved fish access of all alternatives. The alternatives potentially
increases fish access to three miles of stream.
3.3.2. CROOKED RIVER ANALYSIS OF EFFECTS
3.3.2.1. INDICATOR 1 - SEDIMENT/SUBSTRATE ANALYSIS
The analysis of effects on fish resources from increased sediment is based on the Watershed
analysis of sediment in the Watershed section above. The model results displayed below in
Tables 3.62-3.64 display existing conditions (Alternative A) with high cobble embeddedness and
poor winter rearing capacity. The results of FISHSED show slight increases in cobble
embeddedness and corresponding decreases in summer and winter rearing capacity for all fish-
bearing streams under all action alternatives. Modeled activities include temporary road
construction, road reconstruction, timber harvest and road decommissioning. It does not
include site treatments for watershed restoration and instream fish habitat improvements. The
FISHSED model showed no difference between Alternative D with or without the additional
restoration included from Alternative E. This is a reflection of the models' limitations, not the
amount of actual on the ground improvement.
TABLE 3.62: COMPARISON OF PREDICTED COBBLE EMBEDDEDNESS (CE) BY ALTERNATIVE
Stream/Composite/ Channel Type
Lower Crooked River/ C
Relief Creek/ B
Middle Crooked River/ C
Silver Creek/ B
Quartz Creek/ B
Predicted Percent {%) CE by Alternative
A
80
55
35
55
49
B
82
56
36
59
50
C
82
56
36
59
50
D
82
56
36.
59
50
E
82
56
36
58
50
TABLE 3.63: COMPARISON OF SUMMER REARING CAPACITY (SRC) BY ALTERNATIVE
Stream/Composite/ Channel Type
Lower Crooked River/ C
Relief Creek/ B
Middle Crooked River/ C
Silver Creek/ B
Quartz Creek/ B
Predicted Percent (%) SRC by Alternative
A
56
80
92
80
84
B
54
79
91
77
83
C
54
79
91
77
83
D
54
79
91
77
83
E
54
79
91
77
83
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TABLE 3.64: COMPARISON OF WINTER REARING CAPACITY (WRC) BY ALTERNATIVE
Stream/Composite/ Channel Type
Lower Crooked River/ C
Relief Creek/ B
Middle Crooked River/ C
Silver Creek/ B
Quartz Creek/ B
Predicted Percent {%) WRC by Alternative
A
12
24
40
24
28
B
12
23
40
22
27
C
12
22
40
22
27
D
12
22
40
22
27
E
12
23
40
22
27
Predicted increases in cobble embeddedness are not at a magnitude where measurable
changes could occur, and differences between the action alternatives, as modeled, are all within
the margin of error for the model. The FISHSED analysis and the numbers above do show
Alternatives B and E having slightly less impact to winter rearing habitat. There is also slight
difference between Alternative A (no action), and the action alternatives.
The basic model assumption behind FISHSED is that an inverse relationship exists between the
amount of fine sediments in spawning and rearing habitats and fish survival and abundance. In
general, when sediment yields are increased over natural rates in Idaho batholith watersheds,
especially on a sustained basis, fish biomass decreases. Fine sediment is known to degrade
salmonid spawning and rearing habitat (Chapman and McCleod, 1987; Bjornn and Reiser,
1991), as suggested by the FISHSED model. Specifically, high-sediment levels can impair
habitat for spawning and rearing by:
(1) Trapping fry in redds when they are attempting to emerge;
(2) Depleting intergravel oxygen levels in redds, smothering eggs contained within;
(3) Limiting aquatic invertebrate populations used a food source;
(4) Filling and thereby reducing the number of large pools which serve as primary feeding
and resting areas for juvenile salmonids; and
(5) Filling spaces between rocks that serve as over wintering refuge for juvenile salmonids
(USDI NOAA-NMFS, 1998).
We expect that changes in substrate condition from modeled increased surface sediment yield
are not of a magnitude that significant effects on fish would occur.
An important concept in assessing effects on fish habitat from increases in surface sediment
erosion for this project is that both the FISHSED and NEZSED models represent peak sediment
yields, which in this case are temporary, with a final result of reduced road density and
improvement in the existing baseline condition. The cost of long-term improvement in
watershed condition is a short-term increase, or pulse, in surface sediment yield, which must
occur in order for the long-term goal of improvement to occur. Short-term risks of increased
sediment must be considered in the context of long-term improvement in watershed and stream
habitat condition.
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DIRECT AND INDIRECT
ALTERNATIVE A
Under the 'no action' alternative, the existing baseline sediment/substrate condition would
probably remain the same. No real improvement in watershed condition would occur, and
deposited sediment levels in streams would likely remain the same. The risk of severe, stand-
replacing wildfire would remain in the absence of vegetation treatments. With severe wildfire,
there are risks of large pulses of sediment delivered rapidly to streams, which could adversely
affect habitat already impaired by past human activities.
Benefits of Alternative A include no further ground-disturbing activities, which would result in no
additional pulses of sediment. However this alternative would not address either the existing
increased levels of sediment or the need for active stream, watershed and soils restoration.
ALTERNATIVES
Under Alternative B, a pulse of sediment is expected, but this pulse is the second lowest of the
action alternatives and would result in the second lowest short-term risks to fish habitat.
Improvements would occur under this alternative but somewhat reduced from those included in
Alternative D and E. Improvements would result in similar rates of recovery as Alternatives C
(see Appendix E) and fish habitat conditions would likely improve. This alternative was
designed to presents the least short-term risk to aquatic species. By avoiding long sections of
temporary road and avoiding timber harvest in units posing risk to the aquatic resources. This
alternative would construct approximately 7 miles less temporary roads than Alternatives C and
D. This reduced level of activity is represented by a slight reduction in activity generated
sediment in Silver Creek, Relief Creek and Lower Crooked River (Watershed Section 3.2.2.3,
Table 3.65). Restoration activities like reduced soil compaction, culvert improvements, and
native vegetation restoration, would improve watershed condition and fish habitat. The long
term reduced baseline sediment yield resulting from road decommissioning and other
improvement activities would aid in the eventual recovery of the watersheds.
Since no timber harvest is proposed within high-risk landslide prone and streamside RHCAs, no
short-term increase in risk of mass wasting and landslide type disturbances is expected to
occur.
ALTERNATIVES C
Under Alternative C the percent over base sediment would increase the most as a result of the
short-term peak associated with the implementation of activities in Middle Crooked River and
Lower Crooked River (Table 3.65). Restoration activities like soil restoration, fish passage
improvements, and native vegetation restoration, would still improve watershed condition in
Alternative C. It is expected that fish habitat conditions would improve in 11.1 miles of stream.
No timber harvest is proposed within streamside and wetland RHCAs and high-risk landslide
prone RHCAs.
ALTERNATIVE D
Under Alternative D, the percent over base sediment would increase similar to alternative C with
the model showing the highest increase between alternatives in Silver and Relief Creek (Table
3.65). The reduced baseline sediment yield resulting from road decommissioning and other
improvement activities could be greater with Alternative D if funding were available for the
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additional items included with this alternative. This alternative also allows for the greatest
amount of instream improvements, improving fish habitat over a total of 14.6 miles.
No timber harvest is proposed within streamside and wetland RHCAs and high-risk landslide
prone RHCAs.
ALTERNATIVE E
Under Alternative E, no harvest is proposed within unroaded landscapes. This restricted timber
harvest is coupled with the largest stream restoration package and provides for the most
improvement (upward trend) in fish habitat and water quality. The reduction in activity
generated sediment and expected improvement in substrate condition is greater than any of the
other alternatives.
No timber harvest is proposed in streamside or high risk landslide prone RHCAs.
3.3.2.2. INDICATOR 2 - LARGE WOODY DEBRIS ANALYSIS
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
ALTERNATIVE A
Alternative A would see no change in acting and potential woody debris.
ALTERNATIVES B,C,D
Acting large woody debris would be increased as a result of instream improvement associated
with the action alternatives. Alternative B would improve acting large woody debris numbers on
10.3 miles of stream and Alternatives C would improve 11.1 miles. Alternative D would require
improvements in 11.1 miles of stream and allow for an additional 3.5 miles of improvements if
funding becomes available. This work will be important in moving this stream toward the Forest
Plan fish/water quality objective.
ALTERNATIVE E
Alternative E would improve the most stream miles (14.6). This work will be important in moving
both Relief Creek and Crooked River toward their Forest Plan fish/water quality objective.
3.3.2.3. INDICATOR 3 - POOL ANALYSIS
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
ALTERNATIVE A
No instream improvement work would be implemented under this alternative. Pool to riffle ratios
in Crooked River and Relief Creek would remain below their objective.
ALTERNATIVES B AND C
Sediment generated with these action alternatives would slightly impact pool habitat. Instream
improvement projects would greatly increase both the number and quality of pool habitat in
Crooked River. Alternative B would improve pool habitat over 10.3 miles of stream and
Alternative C would improve 11.1 miles
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ALTERNATIVE D
Alternative D would improve pool habitat over 10.3 miles of stream, with an additional 3.5 miles
allowed for when and if funding becomes available. This work will be important in moving this
stream toward the Forest Plan fish/water quality objective.
ALTERNATIVE E
Alternative E would improve the most stream miles (14.6). This work will be important in moving
both Relief Creek and Crooked River toward their Forest Plan objective.
3.3.2.4. INDICATOR 4 - WATER YIELD ANALYSIS
Section 3.2 - Watershed and Table 3.15 above display changes in EGA for affected watersheds
in the project area.
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
ALTERNATIVE A
Alternative A displays the existing condition for each watershed. No change will occur under
this 'no action' alternative
ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, E
The increase in EGA to the prescription watersheds does not reach a level which would pose a
risk to fish habitat. Middle Crooked River however, does include Silver and Quartz Creeks,
which show a more direct response to tree removal and corresponding increases in water yield.
These drainages and the potential effects of increased water yield are discussed in detail in
Section 3.2 - Watershed above.
3.3.2.5. INDICATOR 5 - WATER QUALITY ANALYSIS (Toxics AND TEMPERATURE)
Toxics
ALTERNATIVEA
Under this alternative, no use of herbicides, fuels, or any fire suppression chemicals is proposed
above current levels. The risk of these materials entering streams would remain unchanged
from the existing condition.
ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, E
Toxic materials used under the action alternatives include herbicides and fossil fuel derivatives,
including, diesel fuel, hydraulic fuel, various petroleum-based lubricants, and gasoline. The two
factors determining the degree of risk from toxic materials are the toxicity of the chemical and
the likelihood that non-target organisms would be exposed to toxic doses (Norris, et al, 1991).
Toxicity alone does not make a chemical hazardous; exposure to a toxic dose must also occur.
Chemicals may enter water by one or more of the following routes: direct application, drift, and
mobilization in ephemeral stream channels, overland flow, and leaching (Norris, et al, 1991).
Since no aerial application of herbicides is proposed, and hand application of herbicides would
be restricted in streamside RHCAs, all the above mechanisms for delivery to streams are
unlikely to occur. Given constraints on application of herbicides, introduction of herbicides to
water, particularly in concentrations necessary to elicit an effect on aquatic organisms, is highly
unlikely. The toxicities of the various herbicides proposed for use under the action alternatives,
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with their respective levels of concern, are contained in the American and Crooked River project
file.
In addition, fueling and storage of fuels is covered under the design and mitigation measures
detailed in Table 2.3 above. Transport of fuels is regulated through mitigation that minimizes
the risk of accidents or accidental introduction of these materials to streams. Therefore, the risk
of fuel delivery to streams is considered discountable (extremely unlikely to occur).
STREAM TEMPERATURES
ALTERNATIVE A
Stream temperatures in the Crooked River area are cooler than those in American River and
they are unchanged as a result of this alternative over the short-term. See the Watershed
section above for a more detailed discussion. Some improvement may occur over time as
vegetation recovers gradually in areas where shade has been reduced from past dredge mining
or other activities resulting in over-widened, shallow streams.
ALTERNATIVES B, C, D
Since harvest of timber within wetland and streamside RHCAs is not proposed under any of
these alternatives, the risk of effect from timber harvest and road building on stream
temperature is discountable, or extremely unlikely to occur.
Stream improvements included with these action alternatives include riparian planting to
increase stream shade. It can be expected that overtime; this work could improve water
temperatures. Alternative C provides for 11.1 miles and Alternative B allows for 10.3 miles of
riparian planting. Alternative D requires treatment of 11.1 miles and allows for an additional 3.5
miles of planting if funding becomes available.
ALTERNATIVE E
Alternative E provides opportunities for the greatest amount of improvement (23.8 miles).
3.3.2.6. INDICATOR 6 - HABITAT CONNECTIVITY/FISH PASSAGE ANALYSIS
Culverts have been identified and are included with the restoration activities associated with this
action (Appendix D). Projects include hardening of existing fords as well as replacing culverts to
allow for high flows and passage of aquatic biota. Increasing connectivity allows individual fish
to migrate in and out of tributaries to seek cool water. Increased connectivity also promotes
genetic exchange between populations thus increasing diversity. Not all stream miles listed
below are for fish passage. Culvert upgrades for passing of 100-year flood flows are also
included.
TABLE 3.65: CROOKED RIVER MILES OF STREAM WITH IMPROVED ACCESS.
Alternative
B
C
D
E
Perennial
16.9
16.9
28.2
28.2
Intermittent
8.4
8.4
14.2
14.2
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ALTERNATIVE A
The 'no action' alternative would rely on existing road maintenance funds to replace, remove or
repair existing culverts. Funding for this program is currently limited. Little of this work would be
accomplished. Work would occur over a period of many years as funding becomes available.
ALTERNATIVES B,C,D
Alternatives B, and C improve fish passage and passing of flood flows for approximately 17
miles of perennial stream. Alternative D allows for an additional 11.3 miles of perennial and 5.8
miles of intermittent stream if funding is available and if these sites are shown to be a priority in
the basin.
ALTERNATIVE E
Alternative E offers the most improved stream access miles.
3.3.3. CONSISTENCY WITH THE FOREST PLAN AND ENVIRONMENTAL LAW
The Nez Perce Forest Plan direction and regulatory framework relevant to fisheries was
presented near the beginning of the Fisheries section and in Appendix E. It included a
description of Appendix A - Nez Perce Forest Plan standards and guidelines, general guidelines
for activities in riparian areas, a summary of relevant direction from Amendment 20 (PACFISH),
and direction associated with the Endangered Species Act for listed fish species potentially
affected by actions in the American and Crooked River area. All alternatives are in compliance
with the Forest Plan and Environmental Law. The project design incorporates mitigation and
design criteria designed to minimize effects to ESA listed fish. •
ALTERNATIVE A r
This alternative proposes no action. The upward trend called for in the Forest Plan would be *
restricted to slower natural recovery rates. Stream channels not currently meeting their Forest I
Plan fish/water quality objectives would improve slowly overtime in the absence of stochastic
events, making recovery of ESA listed fish and their habitat more difficult.
*
ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, E
Actions proposed under these alternatives are consistent with the entry frequency and sediment
yield guidelines in Appendix A of the Forest Plan. No harvest is proposed in wetland or t;
streamside RHCAs. No harvest is proposed in high risk landslide-prone RHCAs. t
Crooked River and American River have been designated priority watersheds for listed e
steelhead trout by the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), as per recommendation by r
the Nez Perce National Forest. Direction issued in the Forest Plan Biological Opinion (BO) by
NMFS in 1998 provided additional direction for activities occurring in priority watersheds. No
watershed analysis has been completed for these watersheds and none of the proposed actions
trigger a need for watershed analysis.
UPWARD TREND OF BELOW OBJECTIVE WATERSHEDS - ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES
The Nez Perce Forest Plan provides direction that timber harvest in sediment-limited
watersheds that do not meet their Fish/Water Quality Objectives, as listed in Appendix A, would
occur only where concurrent watershed improvement efforts result in a positive upward trend in
habitat condition. Most prescription watersheds in the analysis area were included in this
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category. Criteria to determine compliance with the upward trend direction in Appendix A are
detailed in a Forest Plan guidance document (Gerhardt, et al, 1991).
Given this information, consistency with this provision of the Forest Plan is applicable to most
streams in the analysis area. Direct watershed improvement actions, which range from road
obliteration, culvert upgrades, in-channel restoration, and non point sediment stabilization, are
included with all action alternatives (Appendix D). Large-scale vegetation treatments, which
include timber harvest, are designed in part to reduce fuel accumulations and improve stand
condition over the analysis area. The combined vegetation treatments and watershed
restoration activities will result in a short-term increase in sediment but a long-term improvement
in watershed condition.
Long-term declines in surface sediment yield are displayed in Figures located in the Watershed
sediment analysis sections and Appendix E for each prescription watershed. These charts
display a slight long-term improvement in baseline sediment yield conditions expected as a
result of the action alternatives. Of the action alternatives, Alternative E offers the most rapid
improvement versus the least short-term risk, while Alternatives C and D offer improvement;
they also presents the most short-term risk. Alternative B falls somewhere in between.
Instream improvements in Crooked River will greatly improve fish habitat in this dredge-mined
section of stream. Improvement actions would occur along with timber harvest activities. All
action alternatives are consistent with Forest Plan direction concerning upward trend in below-
objective watersheds. Appendix E includes the details of the upward trend analysis.
IRREVERSIBLE OR IRRETRIEVABLE EFFECTS
There are no known irreversible or irretrievable effects associated with fisheries or aquatic
resources for any of the alternatives.
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS
Cumulative effects include past, present, reasonably foreseeable actions within the action area
(see Table 3.1). The cumulative effects area for fisheries resources includes watersheds within
American River and Crooked River. The area also includes the South Fork Clearwater River
from headwaters to the confluence with the Middle Fork Clearwater River. The prescription
watersheds within the project area in American River include; Upper American River; (Middle)
American River; Lower American River; East Fork American River; Kirks Fork; Whitaker Creek;
Queen Creek; Flint Creek; Box Sing Creek. In Crooked River they include; Lower Crooked
River; Relief Creek; and Middle Crooked River has been previously identified as American River
and tributaries including the mainstem below the project area. Crooked River and its tributaries
from Orogrande to the mouth of the South Fork Clearwater River. The South Fork Clearwater
River from the mouth of both American River and Crooked River downstream to the confluence
of the South Fork and Middle Fork Clearwater Rivers. Both American and Crooked Rivers and
the South Fork Clearwater River are subject to cumulative sediment and temperature impacts.
Aquatic restoration projects have been implemented overtime in both tributaries and throughout
the South Fork Clearwater River.
AMERICAN RIVER
The existing condition of the watershed and streams in the project area reflect the past aquatic
restoration projects as well as the history of private land development, mining, timber harvest,
road building and cattle grazing. Of the indicators discussed in this section, sediment and
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temperature are most relevant in terms of potential cumulative effects for current and
reasonably foreseeable future actions. Cattle grazing in the project area has been greatly
reduced in the recent past. The BLM has eliminated cattle grazing in the project area. The
benefit of removing cattle from American River and tributaries is evident with more stable banks
and abundant grasses and shrubs along low gradient sections within the project area.
Cumulative sediment effects in the American River watershed have been quantified through the
NEZSED model, which included sediment from timber harvest, road construction, road
reconstruction, and road decommissioning. Road to trail conversions, trail reconstruction, and
watershed improvements were not included in the model. Sediment yield was additively routed
to various points in the watershed, and effects of this yield to fish habitat were considered in the
FISHSED model. In addition to surface sediment yield, sediment from other sources, including
mass movement, bank erosion, culvert removal, livestock grazing, and watershed
improvements have been addressed narratively in the Watershed Effects section.
In summary, American River and tributaries are subject to cumulative sediment effects due to
past impacts in the watershed and the existing degraded condition. Additional sediment,
regardless of the source, could further impact deposited sediment and other associated habitat
elements. This could adversely affect listed and sensitive salmonids in the project area.
Sediment impacts are expected to decrease, and fish habitat condition is expected to improve in
the ensuing years, resulting in higher habitat condition than currently exists. Of the alternatives,
Alternative D presents the greatest risk in terms of cumulative sediment risks, and Alternative E
presents the least risk. Alternative A, while presenting no short-term risks, would also not result
in long-term improvement in watershed condition or the deposited sediment indicator.
Stream temperature is also an indicator not meeting standards. This element is affected by past
activities on State, Federal and private lands within the project area. PACFISH default RHCA
buffers would protect existing shade. None of the alternatives is expected to degrade this
condition.
The South Fork Clearwater River TMDL (see Section 3.2 - Watershed) for sediment and water
temperature will govern activities on State and private lands as well as Federal lands. Under
this guidance, aquatic conditions should continue to improve in American River.
The BLM Eastside Project is early in it's development, but the project was evaluated as it was
proposed by the BLM. Preliminary EGA and sediment yield calculations that include the
proposed BLM Eastside Township Project (see Section 3.2 - Watershed) project increases to
these indicators.
CROOKED RIVER
Past events and activities affecting Crooked River and its tributaries have also been discussed
at length throughout this document. The existing condition of the watershed and streams in the
project area reflect the past aquatic restoration projects as well as the disturbance history
including mining, timber harvest, road building and to a lesser degree cattle grazing. Of the
indicators discussed in this section, sediment, water temperature, pool habitat and acting large
woody debris are most relevant in terms of potential cumulative effects for current and
reasonably foreseeable future actions. There has been no cattle grazing in Crooked River since
the early 1990s.
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Cumulative sediment effects in the Crooked River watershed have been quantified through the
NEZSED model, which included sediment from timber harvest, road construction, road
reconstruction, and road decommissioning. Road to trail conversions, and reconstruction, and
watershed and stream improvements were not included in the model. Sediment yield was
additively routed to various points in the watershed, and effects of this yield to fish habitat were
considered in the FiSHSED model. In addition to surface sediment yield, sediment from other
sources, including mass movement, bank erosion, culvert removal, and instream improvements
has been addressed narratively in the Watershed Effects section.
In summary, Crooked River and tributaries are subject to cumulative sediment effects due to
past impacts in the watershed and the existing condition of this indicator is below its objective.
Additional sediment, regardless of the source, could further impact deposited sediment and
other associated habitat elements. Impacts are expected to decrease, and condition is
expected to improve in the ensuing years, resulting in higher habitat condition than currently
exists. Of the alternatives, Alternative D presents the greatest risk in terms of cumulative
sediment risks, and Alternative E presents the least risk. Alternative A, while presenting no
short-term risks, would also not result in significant long-term improvement in watershed
condition or the deposited sediment indicator.
Stream temperature is also an indicator at high risk of cumulative impacts, given its existing
condition. None of the alternatives would degrade this condition. All action alternatives would
improve stream temperatures by allowing riparian plantings to increase streamside shade.
The South Fork Clearwater River TMDL (see Section 3.2 - Watershed) for sediment and water
temperature will govern activities on State and private lands as well as Federal lands.' Under
this guidance, aquatic conditions should continue to improve in Crooked River.
Pool habitat and acting large woody debris would improve under all action alternatives with
Alternative D and E providing for the most while Alternatives B, and C, provide less.
SOUTH FORK CLEARWATER RIVER
Findings for aquatic resources in American River, Crooked River and the South Fork Clearwater
River include substantial physical changes since the initiation of human disturbances in the 19th
century. Specific activities include but are not limited to mainstem dams, in-channel mining in
the mainstem rivers and tributaries, timber harvest throughout the subbasin, road construction
and encroachment on streams, domestic livestock grazing, home construction and private land
development, agriculture and cultivation, fire suppression, and many others. It is generally
accepted that water quality and habitat in the South Fork Clearwater River is in a degraded
condition, both from sediment and temperature impacts (USDA, 1998; USDA 1999).
Table 3.1 - Projects Considered Under Cumulative Effects, lists these activities and the possible
effects of these actions are described below. Section 3.2 - Watershed above highlights the
natural (fire) and management activities that have affected the project area. The detailed
discussions of sediment yield and water temperature highlights these elements and how they
have changed overtime. Both elements have adversely affected fish populations in the South
Fork Clearwater River
As described in this section, dredge mining and hydraulic mining caused significant erosion in
the tributaries, and accelerated sediment deposition in the mainstem river.
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Fish passage in the South Fork Clearwater River has been impacted by mainstem dams since
the early days of settlement. The first dam reported in the South Fork Clearwater River was the
Dewey Mine Dam in place by about 1895. This dam was reported to be 6 to 8 feet high and
located about 3.3 miles above the Harpster Bridge. The dam was in place for a few years with
no documentation of fish passage conditions. Lower in the South Fork, near the town of
Kooskia was the site of the Kooskia Flower Mill Dam. This dam was in place from 1910 into the
1930s. The dam was estimated to be about 6 feet high. The Washington Water Power Dam,
was reportedly built in 1911 (Siddall, 1992). This dam was a total barrier to fish migration
although a fish ladder was constructed in 1935 but was washed out in 1949. This dam was
reported to be 33 or 56 feet high depending on the source. It was removed on August 3, 1963.
The existing salmon and steelhead populations are a result offish stocking, likely supplemented
by straying adults from the Clearwater River.
Current land uses occurring on private lands include livestock grazing, timber harvest,
agriculture, residence construction, road construction, sewage treatment, and water withdrawals'
for domestic use and irrigation. It is estimated that increases in general land uses would occur
in the next decade. Additional information on private land activities is found in the South Fork
Clearwater River Biological Assessment (USDA FS, 1999a)
Given all the above information, the South Fork Clearwater River is at high risk for cumulative
impacts, especially from additional sediment and increased water temperature. The American
and Crooked River Project is designed to improve overall fish habitat by reducing non-point
sediment sources and improving instream fish habitat. Sediment increases from road and
harvest activities will however, increase sediment in the short term. In general, the level of
activity on federal lands is currently substantially less than in recent decades, and many federal
actions contain watershed improvements as part of the project. Proposed mining activities may
contribute to the conditions in the subbasin, but mitigation for these projects is expected to
reduce some of these impacts. Proposed timber sales on National Forest lands are subject to
similar mitigation and upward trend requirements as the American and Crooked River Project,
and although spikes of sediment may occur, in general stream habitat is expected to improve at
least locally.
Actions associated with the American and Crooked River area may contribute cumulatively to
sediment in the South Fork Clearwater River downstream from the mouth of American and
Crooked Rivers. As discussed in the Watershed Cumulative Effects section, these effects
would be short-term only, and improvements in watershed condition over time would contribute
to improved conditions in the river.
The South Fork Clearwater River TMDL (see Section 3.2 - Watershed) for sediment and water
temperature will govern activities on State and private lands as well as Federal lands. Under
this guidance, aquatic conditions should continue to improve in the South Fork Clearwater
River.
MANAGEMENT INDICATOR SPECIES AND POPULATION VIABILITY
The Nez Perce National Forest Plan (USDA FS, 1987a) identified steelhead trout, westslope
cutthroat trout, and chinook salmon as management indicator species. All three of these
species exist in the project area. The plan calls for monitoring of population levels of all
Management Indicator Species (MIS) on the Forest.
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Assessment of population viability is a critical part of addressing the effects of land management
actions on both terrestrial and aquatic species. In the upper tributaries of the South Fork
Clearwater River, the Nez Perce National Forest has proposed potentially significant land
management activities in response both to an epidemic mountain pine beetle infestation and
compelling watershed restoration needs. Significant vegetation management and aquatic
restoration proposals in Red River, Crooked River, and American River, predicate the need to
address population viability across the upper South Fork Clearwater subbasin.
A population viability analysis for management indicator species has been completed and is
included in the project record (USDA FS, 2004). In summary, available data suggest widely
varying mean densities of juvenile steelhead trout and chinook salmon and an overall decline in
naturally-produced juveniles, but recent increases in adult returns (2001 - 2004). The viability of
anadromous fish in upper South Fork Clearwater tributaries is confounded by long-term
hatchery supplementation, which has occurred in both American and Crooked Rivers for
decades. Hatchery supplementation lends a measure of stability and insurance against
declining numbers in these watersheds, although monitoring data suggest supplementation has
not improved natural production.
Westslope cutthroat trout are present in many areas of both the Crooked and American River
watersheds. Available data for this species in these watersheds suggest annual variation in
mean densities but no detectable trends for the year's data were collected. Known population
stronghold areas are present in the Crooked watershed and may be present in the American
watershed as well. These areas are generally located in lower order, high elevation tributaries to
the mainstem and are somewhat isolated from the mainstem and each other. Isolation of
smaller populations may contribute to increased risks for this species.
The assessment of risk to these species from ongoing and proposed activities is related to
growth and survival, which could be indirectly affected through additional habitat degradation in
areas where spawning and rearing occur. For chinook salmon and steelhead trout, spawning
and rearing generally occur throughout mainstem areas and the lower reaches of larger
tributaries. These areas could be affected by increases in stream temperature and deposited
sediment. Project mitigation preventing effects to stream shade would prevent increases in
stream temperature locally and downstream. Increases in sediment yield are predicted, but
these increases are not of a magnitude where significant effects to spawning and rearing habitat
would occur.
Westslope cutthroat trout spawn and rear in tributaries in the American and Crooked
watersheds potentially affected by the project. Temporary increases in peak sediment yield
may result in increases in sediment deposition in these areas. Changes in habitat are not
expected to be significant or measurable, however. In addition, these activities are not
proposed in population stronghold watersheds, so these areas would not be affected.
For all MIS fish species, implementation of watershed restoration activities is expected to result
in immediate improvements in watershed condition and long-term improvement in instream
habitat. The assumption of long-term improvement is partly predicated on the idea that no
additional significant sediment-producing events will occur in the foreseeable future.
Improvement in habitat condition would contribute to improvement in growth and survival,
thereby decreasing risks. All MIS species are expected to persist in areas potentially affected by
the project over both the short and long term, with possible improvements long-term. One
objective of vegetation management in these watersheds is a reduction in hazardous fuels. If
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this objective is met, presumably future fires would be of lesser intensity where hazardous fuels
were removed, thereby decreasing the effects of a potential future fire to watershed condition.
3.3.4. CONCLUSIONS
EXISTING CONDITION
Fish habitat in the analysis area is in poor condition. Past bucket line dredging of the mainstem
American River, Box Sing Creek, Whitaker Creek, Queen Creek , Crooked River and Relief
Creek, have left these systems with a very reduced carrying capacity for fish. Water
temperatures are elevated due to the vegetative canopy that was removed by roads and
dredging. Surveyed streams in the analysis area are below their Forest Plan objectives
(existing and proposed) included in Appendix A. Habitat elements of most concern include high
levels of deposited sediment, low number of high quality pools, high stream temperatures, and
an overall simplification of habitat leading to reduced carrying capacity.
Road/stream crossings in the project area have culverts that block or impede upstream fish
migration.
Migratory westslope cutthroat trout, steelhead, and bull trout, while located in the project area
streams, are at very low densities and the streams are priority watersheds (USDA FS, 1998a).
Current habitat conditions may be limiting growth, reproduction, and survival of these species in
the tributaries as well as in the mainstem rivers.
Spring chinook salmon are found in the mainstem and tributaries of American and Crooked
Rivers as well as in the South Fork Clearwater River.
Non-native brook trout exist in many streams in the analysis area especially in American River.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES
Under the action alternatives, a limited short-term increase in sediment production is expected
from vegetation treatments, road construction/reconstruction, road decommissioning and in
channel improvements.
This short-term increase in sediment yield is not at a level where changes in stream substrate
(cobble embeddedness) are expected to occur.
If Alternative A (no action) is implemented, watersheds and streams would remain in a poor
condition and recover slowly over time.
Under the action alternatives, vegetation treatments, including timber harvest, may result in
lower risk of large, stand-replacing fires. Such fires could adversely affect watershed condition
and fish habitat. Short-term increases in sediment yield under the action alternatives are partly
due to watershed improvement activities, which are expected to result in long-term improvement
in habitat condition.
Equivalent Clearcut Area (EGA), a predictor of changes in water yield, would increase slightly
under all action alternatives. This increase is not likely to result in adverse changes in fish
habitat.
Of the action alternatives, Alternative E offers the most rapid improvement in watershed
condition, with the least short-term risks. Alternative D offers a similar rate of improvement with
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the most short term risk. Alternatives B, and C offer a slower rate of improvement with higher
short-term risks.
Fish in the project area, including steelhead trout, bull trout, chinook salmon, lamprey and
westslope cutthroat trout, may be adversely affected by potential short-term changes in habitat
condition. These species are also expected to benefit from long-term improvement in habitat
condition.
FOREST PLAN COMPLIANCE
The following Forestwide Standards for Wildlife and Fish, from among those listed on pages II-
18-20 of the Nez Perce National Forest Plan, apply to this project and will be met as follows:
TABLE 3.66- COMPLIANCE WITH FOREST PLAN FISHERIES RESOURCE STANDARDS
STANDARD
NUMBER
SUBJECT SUMMARY
COMPLIANCE ACHIEVED BY
FOREST PLAN STANDARDS
1
2
3
4
5
6-13
14
16-18
19
20
21
22
Maintain viable populations of existing native and
desirable non-native vertebrate wildlife species.
Cooperate with future recovery efforts for peregrine
falcon, bald eagle, gray wolf and grizzly bear.
Monitor population levels of all Management Indicator
Species on the Forest. Fish include westslope cutthroat
trout, summer steelhead, and spring chinook.
Recognize fishing and hunting rights guaranteed the
Nez Perce Tribe
Coordinate with the Idaho Department of Fish and
Game to achieve mutual goals for fish and wildlife.
Wildlife direction
Use non-protected KV to help TES species
Wildlife direction
Restore degraded fish habitat to meet Forest Plan
fish/water quality objectives.
Use "Guide for Predicting Salmonid Response to
Sediment Yield in the Idaho Batholith Watersheds" to
evaluate fish habitat and attainment of objectives.
Meet established fishery/water quality objectives
Schedule fishery habitat and watershed improvements
in below objective watersheds. Plan how objectives will
be met.
See Wildlife Section 3. 11
See Wildlife Section 3. 11
Cooperative efforts between Nez Perce Forest,
BLM, Nez Perce Tribe, Idaho Department of
Fish and Game, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Government to Government consultation has
occurred
Continued involvement and annual meetings
between agencies.-
See Wildlife Section 3. 11
See ROD and restoration funding
See Wildlife Section 3. 11
See FEIS Section 3.2 and 3.3
See FEIS Section 3.3 Fisheries and Appendix E
FISHSED
See FEIS Section 3.3 Fisheries and Appendix E
See ROD and FEIS Section 3.3 Fisheries and
Appendix E
FOREST PLAN AMENDMENT 20 (PACFISH)
FW-1
FW-2
FW-3
Design and implement fish and wildlife habitat
restoration and enhancement that contributes to
Riparian Management Objectives
Design, construct, and operate fish and wildlife
interpretive and other user-enhancement facilities in a
manner that does not retard or prevent attaining the
RMOs.
Cooperate with Federal, Tribal, and State wildlife
management agencies and eliminate wild ungulate
impacts that prevent attainment of RMOs or adversely
affect listed anadromous fish.
See FEIS Section 3.2 and 3.3 and Appendix D
See FEIS Appendix D Recreation and trail
Improvement Projects
See wildlife section
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
STANDARD
NUMBER
SUBJECT SUMMARY
management agencies to identify and eliminate adverse
effects on native anadromous fish related to habitat
manipulation, fish stocking, fish harvest, and poaching
COMPLIANCE ACHIEVED BY
We continue to hold regular meetings with our
partners to discuss and work toward this
objective.
The following Forest Plan Standards for Fish and Wildlife do not apply within the context of this
project.
TABLE 3.67 - FOREST PLAN STANDARDS FOR FISHERIES RESOURCES THAT Do NOT APPLY TO THIS
PROJECT
STANDARD
NUMBER
SUBJECT SUMMARY
COMPLIANCE ACHIEVED BY
FOREST PLAN STANDARDS
15
Consult with USFWS on livestock management.
No grazing management decisions made with
this document.
08 08 OS 08 08 CSS
3.4. FIRE
INTRODUCTION
This project proposes to reduce hazardous fuels at a minimum, of two scales:
First, at an individual site scale, the treatment of fuels at this scale is important and is critically
needed to address reducing wildland fire intensities. Treatments would reduce the amount and
distribution of surface fuels, both living and dead in all size classes, and would break up the
vertical and horizontal continuity of fuels that can promote and support large wildland fire growth
during normal weather conditions. On the acres treated, the fuel model would change from a
volatile model that supports torching and crowning to a model that would moderate fire behavior
and be more likely to restrict a wildland fire to the surface of the forest floor.
Secondly, this project looks at the larger drainage or watershed level. Identifying and locating
patterns of treatments in the landscape can mitigate the potential of large to very large wildland
fire events moving toward and threatening areas and communities of concern. Considering
existing patterns of disturbance along with the strategic placement of proposed activities near
roads and ridge tops, along with placing them in areas of large continuous blocks of fuels, to
break up their continuity, can help create a pattern that would restrict the potential for wildland
fires to become large to very large events that might threaten communities, road infrastructures
and critical resource areas. The treatment areas will have the effect of modifying (lowering) the
resulting fire behavior when fires burn through them during non-worst case conditions that have
historically produced large fires.
With these areas of modified fire behavior, fire suppression resources will be given areas where
they can safely and more efficiently initiate tactics to control new fire ignitions in the area as
required by the current Forest Plan and Fire Management Plan. By having these safe areas to
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work in firefighters will better be able to reduce the risk of large fires to "at-risk communities"
such as Elk City, Orogrande, Ericson Ridge, Upper American River, and Gnome town site,
along with road infrastructures, and natural resources. An example of how these factors are
considered in the context of large wildfire events can be found in the Structure Protection
Contingency Plan for the Elk City Township and Red River Area, prepared by the Incident
Command Team for the Slim's Fire in 2003 (USDA FS, 2003d).
AMERICAN RIVER
The focus of these specific treatments is to reduce the amount of hazardous fuels on National
Forest lands immediately adjoining private and BLM lands.
The treatment and reduction of hazardous fuels serve several purposes:
Treatments would extend a buffer area that would help protect lands, improvements and
structures in and around this portion of the Elk City Township from the threat of wildland fire.
Treatments would break-up the continuity of existing heavy fuel loads both horizontally and
vertically that can support high intensity wildland fires that move through surface vegetation and
into tree crowns during periods of high fire danger. These periods of high, very high and
extreme fire danger typically occur during late July, August, and early September. Conditions
have become more volatile by repeated occurrence of drought and increasing levels of insect
mortality.
CROOKED RIVER
The focus of these specific treatments is to reduce the amount of hazardous fuel conditions
across a mid-slope zone from Orogrande to Highway 14. Proposed fuel treatment units, in
combination with previous disturbance, would create an effective pattern that would break up
continuity of vegetation (fuel)", both horizontally and vertically. This pattern is important at
landscape scales to disrupt fuel available to wildland fire and the potential for large wildland fire
growth that has become more common over the past decade. Completion of treatments in this
project area would also lower wildland fire intensities and treated areas could be utilized to base
effective suppression/control operations without compromising firefighter safety.
SCOPE OF THE ANALYSIS
The American and Crooked River project analysis area for fire and fuels includes the entire
project area. Fuel models, using Anderson (1982), represent the fuel profile within the project
area. Fuel models in the project area include fuel models 1, 3, 4, 5, 8 and 10. Descriptions of
the fuel models can be found in Appendix G.
The amount of acres of each component of fire and fuel are used as indicators. Indicators used
for analyzing effects on fire include Fire Regime and Risk/Fire Hazard based on fuel model.
REGULATORY FRAMEWORK
The Nez Perce National Forest Plan (1987a, pp. 11-1 through II-8) established goals and
objectives for the management of the Forest. Specific Forest Plan goals that apply to fire
management in the American and Crooked River project area are:
• Protect resource values through cost effective fire and fuels treatment through the
utilization of material and using prescribed fire (page II-2).
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The Forest Plan also identifies specific fire management direction in Appendix C- Fire
Management Direction. This direction is to ensure that fire use programs are cost effective
compatible with the role of fire in the forest ecosystem and responsive to resource management
objectives.
• Prescribe fire to maintain healthy, dynamic ecosystems that meet land management
objectives.
• Emphasize fire ecology implications when applying prescribed fire.
Additionally the Forest Plan has identified management areas to distinguish differing
management emphases between geographic areas. The Forest Plan gives general guidelines
goals, and standards for fire management within these management areas that can be found
throughout Chapter Ml of the Forest Plan.
The "Healthy Forest Restoration Act of 2003" (citation needed) gives direction to conduct
hazardous fuels reduction projects on National Forest System lands. These projects are "aimed
at protecting communities, watersheds, and certain other at-risk lands from catastrophic wildfire,
to enhance efforts to protect watershed, and address threats to forest and rangeland health'
including catastrophic wildfire, across the landscape, and other purposes"(H.R. 1904). Specific
direction for hazardous fuel reduction projects is found in Title 1 - Hazardous Fuel Reduction on
Federal Land, Section 102 - Authorized hazardous fuel reduction projects. (16 USC 6512)
While this project is consistent with the intent of the Act, it was not scoped as and therefore is
not being processed as an authorized project defined therein.
ANALYSIS METHODS
Fuel model (existing and predicted) and fire regime were modeled from the potential and
existing vegetation conditions, based on the rule sets of Keane, et al (1998). Potential
treatment units are generally comprised of multistoried vegetation or high amounts of standing
or down dead material that would contribute to high intensity wildfire (fuel model 10) and would
tend to move toward fuel model 13 in a short period of time without treatment. Following
treatment, these units would be in the low to moderate risk/hazard category (fuel models 5 and
8).
Existing condition fuel models were then compared with what the fuel models would look like
under all of the Alternatives. A hazard assessment was done and a hazard level rating was
assigned to the fuel models. The hazard level is based on fuel models and their associated fire
behavior characteristics, in particular fire intensity and severity (Anderson, 1982).
3.4.1. INDICATOR 1 - FIRE REGIME
EXISTING CONDITION
A fire regime reflects the pattern of fire frequency, size, uniformity, and severity within an area.
Fire has been a major force shaping landscape patterns and influencing productivity. It affects
the composition, structure, and pattern of vegetation on the landscape. Fire as a disturbance
process is an integral part of the concept of ecosystem management.
Presettlement fire regimes have been described for the analysis area by their characteristic
severity (non-lethal, mixed severity, lethal), and frequencies (very frequent: 5-25 years,
frequent: 25-75 years, infrequent: 75-150 years, and very infrequent: 150 - 300 years), using
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field studies, timber stand data, aerial photo interpretation, and scientific literature including
Morgan, ef a/. (1996) and Kapler-Smith and Fischer (1997). They are modeled using habitat
type group(s) and terrain setting.
Table 3.66 displays the presettlement fire regimes within the project 'area. These fire regimes
are displayed on Maps 9a and 9b.
TABLE 3.68 - FIRE REGIMES ACREAGE IN THE PROJECT AREA
Fire Regime
Very Frequent, Non-Lethal
Frequent, Mixed
Infrequent, lethal
Infrequent to very infrequent, Mixed
and Lethal
Acres in American River
Project Area
99
0
9680
5779
Acres in Crooked River
Project Area
1150
2109
13366
6540
After 1930, fire incidence within the project area dropped substantially due to the effectiveness
of fire suppression activities (USDA FS, 2003g, p. 4-85).
Areas with very frequent and frequent fire regimes are missing multiple fire occurrences due to
increased time between fires. The missed fire occurrences have led to a buildup of fuels and
changing of fuel conditions such as; replacement of fire resistant with non fire resistant tree
species, and increases in timber stand density and vertical arrangement of fuels. This change
in fuel and stand conditions would in turn allow for these stands to be identified as being in Fire
Regime Condition Classes 2 and/or 3 (Schmidt et al, 2002) because they are outside of their
historic norms for a disturbance pattern.
Based on GIS mapping that incorporates the data from the Cohesive Strategy Team, which
uses potential vegetation and the use of rule sets to derive fire regimes, it was determined that
there are approximately 10,000 acres within the project area that can be classified as condition
class 2 (9,482 acres) or condition class 3 (512 acres). The rules for this mapping can be found
in the fire/fuels section of the project file. Refer to maps 10a and 10b for condition class within
project area. These changes contribute to increased fire intensity, and fire severity. •
Fire intensity is defined as the heat released along the leading edge of the fire, and expressed
as btu/lineal foot of fire front/second. Fire severity is a qualitative assessment of the
consumption of surface fuel and duff based on the heat pulse of a fire. Fire severity is also used
as an indicator of fire effects on vegetation and soil, and may or may not be closely related to
intensity. Higher fire intensity and severity may lead to increased mortality, and decreased
effectiveness of suppression actions, resulting in an increased chance of large stand
replacement fires in the future.
Areas of infrequent and very infrequent fire regimes are little departed from their pre-settlement
fire regimes at the stand scale, but large areas free of disturbance for the last 50 to 80 years
may be departed at the landscape scale. The pending increase of surface fuels in the project
area as the lodgepole pine killed by the mountain pine beetle fall would be within the historic
norm, and the mosaic of mixed and lethal fires that might follow in these areas would also be
within the norm. These stands can be classified as being in Condition Class 1, for the most part
when considered stand-by-stand, because they are within their central tendency of the historic
Chapter 3
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
regime. There may be site-specific variations from this norm, however, and the mountain pine
beetle epidemic occurring in the project area is creating a condition where effects from a large
fire may not be acceptable due to the local social values and water quality concerns.
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
ALTERNATIVE A
Under the 'no action1 alternative the stands with very frequent and frequent fire return intervals
would continue to miss disturbances. This would allow for continued buildup of fuels and
changing of fuel conditions, such as stand density and vertical arrangement. These conditions
would cause a wildland fire occurring in these stands to burn with increased intensity and
severity, decrease the effectiveness of suppression actions and increase chances for
detrimental fire effects from a stand replacing event happening.
Areas that have infrequent and very infrequent fire return intervals would continue to proceed as
they would naturally. This includes fuel buildup as stands mature and decline from age and
outside agents such as beetles. As a result of this buildup, lethal, stand-replacing fires would
become more prevalent.
ALTERNATIVES B. CT D AND E
With these alternatives, stands in the very frequent and frequent fire regimes would have some
type of disturbance, either mechanical and/or fire, returned to some of them. This would start to
bring the treated stands back into their historic fire regime. Bringing these stands back to their
historic regime and Condition Class 1 would result in a lower fire hazard, which would lessen
the effects caused by a wildland fire. Under Alternative B, 450 acres would be treated in
Condition Class 2 and/or 3; 482 acres in Alternative C; 632 acres in Alternative D- and 370
acres for Alternative E.
In the stands that would be treated in the infrequent and very infrequent fire regimes the
disturbance would tend to maintain the stands' normal fire return interval, maintaining the stands
in Condition Class 1. For the stands that are not treated under these alternatives the effects
would be similar to the effects described under Alternative A.
3.4.2. INDICATOR 2 - FUELS
EXISTING CONDITION
The increased effectiveness of fire suppression in western forests since the 1930s has been
followed by a subsequent decrease in large fire occurrences. Without a natural reduction of fuel
accumulations by fire, litter has built up, tree density has increased, and fuel continuity has
increased both vertically and horizontally in many areas. This can result in increased fire
intensity when a fire does occur. This effect is most distinct in fire regimes of non-lethal to
moderate severity, where increased fire area is now burned primarily by high severity fires
(Agee, 1993). *
The American and Crooked River project area consists of a variety of fuel conditions described
by fire behavior fuel models (Anderson, 1982). The fuel models within the project area were
derived based on potential vegetation, VMP dominance type, size class, and canopy cover for
stands located within the project area. Six fuel models are represented in the project area and
include 1, 3, 4, 5, 8, and 10. Descriptions of the fuel models can be found in Appendix G Table
3.69 displays the acreage of each fuel model currently within the project area.
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
TABLE 3.69 -CURRENT FUEL MODELS PRESENT IN THE PROJECT AREA
American
Crooked
Total
Acres
Percentage
Acres
Percentage
Acres
Percentage
1
831
1
152
<1
983
1
2
203
<1
290
<1
493
<1
4
3504
6
6087
13
9591
9
5
6617
11
7523
16
14140
14
8
23038
39
13832
30
36870
35
10
24397
42
17724
39
42121
40
99
5
<1
11
<1
16
<1
Grass fuel models 1 and 3 occur in the meadows adjacent to the American and Crooked River
and recent clearcuts with little regrowth of shrubs or trees. Harvest in the recent past within the
American River Township has reduced hazardous fuels extensively close to the community and
much of that harvested area is fuel model 1. The flammability of these fuel types is dependant
on their stage of growth, with low flammability in the spring and early summer during green up,
and increasing in flammability as the growing season continues and they begin to cure out.
While rates of spread may be high in these fuel types, the resistance to control is low.
Fuel model 5 represents shrub and saplings fuel types that are present in the area. These fuel
types are indicative of past fire disturbances or harvest activities in the project area. Fires in this
fuel type area generally not very intense due to the light surface fuel loading and high
component of live fuels. Pole stands were assigned to fuel model 5 unless canopy was greater
than 70 percent, then they were assigned fuel model 4. Fuel model 4 burns with high fire
intensity and is fast spreading involving the foliage and live and dead fine woody material.
Timber fuel models 8 and 10 represent a majority of the project area. Fuel model 8 represents
single-story early to mid successional stands with little dead and down material or ladder fuels.
Fire spread in this fuel type is low with low intensities and little tree mortality. Only under severe
weather conditions involving high temperatures, low humidity, and high winds do the fuels pose
fire hazards.
Fuel model 10 represents more decadent, late successional, multistoried stands with ladder
fuels and a significant dead and down component. Due to the heavy component of down fuel
and presence of ladder fuels, fires in this fuel types have high fire intensities, which can lead to
torching and crowning in the overstory along with spotting. With these conditions, fires
occurring in this fuel type are generally at the upper limit of control with direct attack by hand.
Decades of fire suppression activity, has led to changes in the spatial distribution of the fuel
models in the project area. Stands that were historically fuel model 8 have transitioned to a
model 10 due to the lack of low severity fires that has allowed for the accumulation of dead fuels
and the establishment of multi-storied stands through regeneration. Wildland fires occurring in
these stands under the existing conditions (fuel model 10) will burn with increased intensity and
severity than they would have historically. This results in an increased potential for these
stands to experience a stand replacing fire. This shift in fuel models is also being compounded
by the infestation of mountain pine beetle that the project area is experiencing. As these trees
are dying, they are starting to contribute to the dead fuel loading and shifting the fuel models to
models 10 and 13. Fuel model 10 would have occurred in areas of infrequent mixed and lethal
fire under natural conditions. Fires would have prevented this fuel model from being
widespread and common.
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
In addition to the suppression activities, harvest activities have changed the distribution of fuel
models over time. Fuel model 5 has recently become more prevalent over the project area as
stands have been harvested and regenerated, but large contiguous areas of fuel model 5 might
have occurred under natural fire regimes in the areas of historically infrequent mixed and lethal
fire.
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
Fuels are an integral part of most wild lands. Direct effects of fire result from the characteristics
of the heat regime of the fire, which is controlled by the manner in which fuels burn Managing
fuel quantity and arrangement by using dispersed treatments in the landscape can help
moderate the heat regime of a fire in areas where it is important to affect burning behavior to
limit social, economic, or environmental effects. Additionally, these dispersed treatments will
provide locations where fire suppression resources can safely and more effectively initiate fire
control measures as required by the Forest Plan and Fire Management Plan for locations within
the project area.
ALTERNATIVES
Under the 'no action' alternative, the fuel loadings, both live and dead, would continue to
increase. There would be an increase in fuel model 10 and a subsequent decrease in fuel
model 8 as these stands age and change over time. Additionally, with the mountain pine beetle
infestation some of these stands will experience high mortality, which would lead to an increase
in the dead fuel load making these stands be best represented by fuel model 13 Fuel model 13
is characterized as a continuous layer of slash. Fires burning in this fuel model spread quickly
through the fine fuels and build in intensity as the larger fuels start burning. Active flaming is
sustained for long periods and can generate a wide variety of firebrands that cause spotting and
control problems. See Tables 3.70 and 3.71 - Predicted Fuel Models In Year 2014 for fuel
model acreage and percentages by alternative for both the American River and Crooked River
Drainages.
ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, AND E
With these alternatives the fuels conditions in the project area would continue to change from
fuel model 8 to fuel models 10 and 13 as the untreated stands age and fuels accumulate but at
a lesser rate than Alternative A. Alternatives B, C, D, and E would reduce the fuel loadings and
continuity over the project area, and thus reduce the effects of a large scale wildland fire This
is accomplished by dispersing the treatment units over the project area and modifying the fuel
models from fuel models 10 and 13, which result in fires with high intensities and severity, to
fuel models 1 and 8, with lower intensities and severities. These areas where the fuels have
been modified will help slow fire spread and reduce intensities, which would improve the
likelihood of successful fire suppression. These fuel treatments would remain effective for up to
20 years, then as the vegetation grows they will become less effective. However if left
untreated the fuel buildup would remain for a much longer time frame and would result in fires
with high intensity and severity.
Alternatives B, C, D, and E would help break up horizontal fuel continuity in the landscape and
reduce the acreage of fuel models 10 and 13. The effects vary proportionally with the acres
treated in each alternative. Table 2.4 - Treatment Acres, for a summary of acres treated bv
each alternative.
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Alternatives B, C, D, and E would treat fuels located within the wildland urban interface (WUI)
areas within the project area. Table 3.72 - Treatment Acres Located Within Wildland Urban
Interface, identifies the acres treated within the WUI by each alternative
Additionally, Alternatives C and D would concentrate a greater amount of treated acres in
relative proximity to the north and east edges of the Elk City Township than Alternatives B and
E, creating opportunities for more effective and efficient coordination of proposed and possible
fuel reduction and defensible space efforts with adjacent landowners and the Bureau of Land
Management.
TABLE 3.70 - PREDICTED FUEL MODELS IN YEAR 2014 BY ALTERNATIVE
AMERICAN RIVER DRAINAGE
FUEL MODEL
1
2
4
5
8
10
NON-
FORESTED
ALTERNATIVE
A
ACRE
s
831
203
3504
6616
2218
5
2549
5
%
AREA
1
<1
6
11
38
43
<1
B
ACR
ES
831
203
3462
6875
2218
7
2503
1
5
%
AREA
1
<1
6
12
38
43
<1
C
ACRE
s
831
203
3382
6939
2223
6
2499
8
5
%
AREA
1
<1
6
12
38
43
<1
D
ACR
ES
831
203
3346
6929
2250
2
2477
8
5
%
AREA
1
<1
6
12
38
42
<1
E
ACR
ES
831
203
3486
6688
2227
1
2511
0
5
%
AREA
1
<1
6
11
38
43
<1
TABLE 3.71 - PREDICTED FUEL MODELS IN YEAR 2014 BY ALTERNATIVE
CROOKED RIVER DRAINAGE
FUEL
MODEL
1
2
4
5
8
10
13
NON-
FORESTED
ALTERNATIVE
A
ACRES
152
290
6087
7523
11365
19960
231
11
%
AREA
<1
<1
13
16
25
44
<1
<1
B
ACRES
152
289
5871
8116
11683
19266
231
11
%
AREA
<1
<1
13
18
26
42
<1
<1
C
ACRES
152
289
5892
8226
11656
19163
231
11
%
AREA
<1
<1
13
18
26
42
<1
<1
D
ACRES
152
289
5795
8313
11790
19039
231
11
%
AREA
<1
<1
13
18
26
42
<1
<1
E
ACRES
152
289
5922
7982
11685
19348
231
11
%
AREA
<1
<1
13
17
26
42
<1
<1
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
TABLE 3.72 - TREATMENT ACRES LOCATED WITHIN WILDLAND URBAN INTERFACE (WUI)
American
Crooked
Total
A
0
0
0
Acres treated
B
295
264
559
C
417
314
731
D
464
649
1,113
E
85
205
290
3.4.3. INDICATOR 3 - RISK/HAZARD
EXISTING CONDITION
Fire risk is the probability of a wildland fire ignition occurring. These occurrences may be from a
natural source such as lightning, or from human-caused sources such as smoking campfires or
industrial. Fire hazard is a rating that can be assigned based on various attributes of a fuel
complex. The attributes used may be susceptibility to ignition, the fire behavior and severity it
would support, and/or suppression difficulties it represents (Walstad, etal, 1990).
During a period from 1970 through 2003 there have been 86 ignitions within the project area of
which 77 have been lightning caused ignitions and 9 human caused. The natural ignitions
during this period do not show a strong pattern of localized occurrences within the project area
The human-caused ignitions tend to follow travel routes and would likely increase as visitor use
to the area increases (USDA FS, 2003g)
Fire hazard for this analysis is based on the fuel models within the project area and how they
relate to a fire's behavior and the resulting fire severity. By using this method the hazard ratings
of low, moderate, and high are assigned to fuel models and shown in Table 3.73.
TABLE 3.73 - HAZARD ASSESSMENT FOR PROJECT AREA
Hazard Assessment
Low
Moderate
High
Fuel Model(s)
',2,8
4,5
10
Fire Severity
Low
Moderate
High
38346
23731
42121
37
23
40
The areas described as being fuel models 1, 3, and 8 are classified as being low fire hazard.
These fuel models are composed of light fuels, which do not result in high severity fires that do
great damage to the resources. They result in little damage to the soil because they burn
quickly and do not consume the organic material in the soil or heat the soil significantly.
Additionally these fires do minimal damage to the overstory in the stands where they occur.
Mortality in fuel model 8 is usually associated with the fire burning in small jackpots of fuels that
are uncharacteristic of the fuel model as a whole. Areas of fuel model 8 can transition to more
intense crown fires under severe burning conditions. Lastly because of the light fuels present in
these fuel types, resistance to fire control is usually low, and under normal conditions these fires
are easily controlled.
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The areas described as being fuel model 4 and 5 are classified as being moderate fire hazard.
Fires occurring in this fuel type are more severe than those in the low hazard class. This
increased severity is due to the increased mortality of the overstory brush and seedling/saplings
that comprise the fuel type, and the increased potential for soil damage due to more removal of
organic material caused by longer fire duration.
The high fire hazard areas are those areas classified as being fuel models, 10 and 13 . Fires
occurring in fuel model 10 and 13 are the most severe due to the heavy fuel loadings. With the
higher fuel loading, these fires burn hotter and longer, which increases the damage done to the
soil by removing the organic material from the soil. Additionally because of the multistoried
stands in fuel model 10 there is an increased potential for fire to transition from a surface fire up
into the overstory crowns. This may result in the occurrence of a stand replacing fire event.
Lastly, because of the heavy fuel loading the resistance to control for a fire in fuel model 10 and
13 is high. This fact coupled with high fire intensity, creates a condition where the fire is at the
upper limits for control by hand-forces, and a small change in weather conditions may result in
an escaped fire.
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
ALTERNATIVE A
The 'no action' alternative would not reduce the fire hazard within the project area. If left as is,
the fire hazard in the project area would increase as more stands transition from low or
moderate fire .hazards to high (fuel models 10 and 13).
With a large portion of the project area moving towards fuel models having a high hazard rating,
the potential would exist for much of the project area to experience more severe and intense
wildfires in the future. Due to higher intensities, these future fires would exhibit higher
resistance to control resulting in an increased chance for a large, stand replacing fire event.
This could be within the historic norm for much of this landscape, but could threaten structures,
investments, and natural resources as well as firefighter safety.
ALTERNATIVES B,C,D, AND E
These alternatives would lower, to varying degrees, the acreage of the project area that would
be classified as a high fire hazard. This change in the hazard ratings results from the
modification of fuel models 10 and 13 towards fuel models 1 and 8 in the treatment units. By
modifying the fuels, the hazard of fires occurring in these treatment units would be lowered
based on their resulting severities, intensities, and resistance to control. Table 3.74 displays the
post treatment fire hazard by each alternative.
TABLE 3.74 POST TREATMENT FIRE HAZARD IN YEAR 2014 BY ALTERNATIVE
Hazard
Assessment
Low
Moderate
High
A
Acres
35,026
23,730
45,440
%
33.6
22.7
43.6
Alternative
B
Acres
35,345
24,324
44,528
%
33.9
23.3
42.7
C
Acres
35,367
24,439
44,392
%
33.9
23.4
42.5
D
Acres
35,767
24,383
44,048
%
34.3
23.3
42.2
E
Acres
35,431
24,078
44,689
%
33.9
23.1
42.8
Additionally, Alternatives C and D would concentrate a greater amount of treated acres closer to
the north and east edges of the Elk City Township than Alternatives B and E, creating
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental impact Statement
opportunities for more effective and efficient coordination of proposed and possible fuel
reduction and defensible space efforts with adjacent landowners and the Bureau of Land
Management.
Alternatives B, C, D, and E will have a short term increase in fire hazard due to the post harvest
slash. This increased fire hazard will be greatly reduced once slash has been burned and the
fuel loadings within the treatment units are reduced to 12 tons per acre or less as required in the
forest plan for activity-created fuels.
3-4-4- IRREVERSIBLE OR IRRETRIEVABLE EFFECTS- FIRE REGIME. FUELS. AND
RISK/HAZARD
COMMON TO ALL ALTERNATIVES
No irreversible commitments are proposed under any of the alternatives. Tree mortality and
loss of other plant life due to wildfire would be irretrievable but not irreversible since these trees
and all other plant life could be regenerated over time.
3.5.5. SUMMARY
EXISTING CONDITION
FIRE REGIME
• Fire incidence has dropped substantially since the 1 930's, due to the effectiveness of fire
suppression.
• Areas with frequent to very frequent fire regimes are missing multiple fire occurrences.
• Areas with infrequent and very infrequent fire regimes are little departed from their pre-
settlement fire occurrences at the stand scale, but some departure may exist at the
broader landscape scale where little disturbance has occurred in the last 50 to 80 years.
• In the areas of infrequent and very infrequent fire regimes, the fire mosaic of mixed and
lethal fires that might follow as a result of increasing fuel loads caused by the mountain
pine beetle infestation would be normal for these fire regimes, but could pose risk to
structures and investments.
FUELS
• The fuel profile across the project area is represented by 6 fire behavior fuel models.
• Decades of fire suppression and timber harvest have changed the spatial distribution of
fuels in the project area.
• Fuel models are transitioning to models that burn with greater fire intensity (heat output,
used as indicator for fire behavior) and fire severity (surface fuel and duff consumption!
used as an indicator for fire effects on vegetation and soil).
• Fuel treatments would remain effective for up to 20 years, then as the vegetation grows
they will become less effective.
• If left untreated the fuel buildup would remain for a long time frame and would result in
fires with high intensity and severity.
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
RISK/HAZARD
• The fire ignition occurrence (risk) within the project area is high. Fire risk is the
probability of a fire ignition occurring.
• Due to increases in fuel loading resulting from the mountain pine beetle infestation, fuel
models are transitioning to models that would result with a higher fire hazard rating
ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES
FIRE REGIME
Under Alternative A, stands in the frequent and very frequent fire regimes would continue to
miss fire disturbances, which would result in fuel buildup, and changes in timber stand
composition and structure. The missed disturbances would continue to take those stands
farther away from the conditions that would have naturally been seen in those fire regime(s).
Stands in the infrequent to and very infrequent fire regimes would continue their successional
processes as they would naturally, and would grow increasingly prone to mixed or lethal fire
Under Alternatives B, C, D, and E, multiple stands in the frequent and very frequent fire regimes
would have some type of disturbance(s), such as mechanical fuel reduction and/or prescribed
fire. This would start to bring these stands back into their historic fire regimes. In the infrequent
and very infrequent fire regimes, the proposed treatments would maintain the normal fire return
interval in the treated stands, and reduce the likelihood of locally severe effects.
FUELS
Under Alternative A, fuel loadings, both live and dead, would continue to increase. Timber
stands and other vegetation, as represented by fuel models, would eventually transition to fuel
models that burn with higher intensities and severity. There would be a decrease in the
effectiveness of suppression efforts resulting in an increased chance of large, stand replacing
fires. There would be a decrease in firefighter and public safety due to fuel conditions that
exhibit a high resistance to control.
Under Alternatives B, C, D, and E, treatments would spatially fragment horizontal fuel continuity
and reduce the predicted acreages of fuel models 10 and 13 by varying degrees by alternative.
Areas where fuels would be modified would reduce fire intensity and severity, thus contributing
to successful suppression activities. Alternatives C and D treat more acres in close proximity to
the Elk City Township, particularly in the American River watershed.
RISK/HAZARD
Under Alternative A, the fire hazard would increase as more stands transition from low or
moderate hazard to high (fuel models 10 and 13). A large percentage of the project area is
predicted to eventually transition to high hazard, increasing the potential for fires that burn with
higher intensity and severity. This may result in fires that are more difficult to control, and pose
more threat to firefighter and public safety, based on the changes to the fuel model(s) and their
resulting fire behavior.
Under Alternatives B, C, D, and E the acreage of the project area that would be rated as high
fire hazard is lowered in comparison with Alternative A. Treatments that modify fuel models 10
and 13 towards fuel models 1 and 8 would decrease the potential for fires that burn with higher
intensities and severity with a high resistance to control, while increasing firefighter and public
safety.
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Alternatives C and D treat more acres in close proximity to the Elk City Township particularly in
the American River watershed.
Common to all Alternatives is that fire ignition occurrence (risk) levels probably would not
change over time. It can be expected that occurrence levels would remain similar to those in
the past. Fire hazard in this landscape would remain.
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS - FIRE REGIME, FUELS, AND RISK/HAZARD
The cumulative effects of the alternatives considers past, present and reasonably foreseeable
actions. These actions are described earlier. The effects of the past actions are included in the
existing condition by indicator. The environmental effects for each indicator discussed in
Chapter 2 and Scope of the Analysis earlier in this section, when combined, show the
cumulative effects of the alternatives.
ALTERNATIVE A (No ACTION ALTERNATIVE)
This alternative would have no immediate effect on fuel conditions in the project area. However,
in the short to long term, fuel loadings, both live and dead, would continue to increase with the
result that more of the project area would move toward a higher fire hazard rating. Over time
the fuels and associated hazard would continue to accumulate until such time as fire
suppression is no longer successful in keeping fires small.
The fuels management projects within the project area are the' Crooked River Demonstration
and Orogrande defensible space projects. The purpose of these treatments is to reduce
available vegetation/fuels within 200 feet of private and public structures and reduce the threat
of losing these structures to wildfire. The size and scope of these treatments are small,
designed to protect only the structures themselves, so the treatments would have little effect on
the project area.
The BLM is planning to implement two fuels reduction projects (Whiskey South and Eastside
Township) within the Elk City Township adjacent to the American and Crooked River project
area. The purpose of these projects is to reduce the risk of high intensity wildland fire to life,
property and natural resources in the Elk City area.
ALTERNATIVES B. C. D. AND E
These alternatives all provide mechanical and prescribed fire fuel reduction treatments, differing
in the amount and location of those treatments and the associated reduction in high fire hazard.
The dispersed treatment areas along with fuel reduction in past harvest and burned areas can
reduce the intensity and severity of a fire burning through those areas.
Observations of wildland fire growth and behavior among age-mosaics of fuel patterns in the
forests of the Sierra Nevada (van Wagtendonk, 1995; Parsons and van Wagtendonk, 1996) and
on fires in the forests of the Northern Rockies (Button, 2004) support the idea that spatial
fragmentation of fuels can cumulatively change fire sizes and behavior. Past harvest and
burned areas along with proposed treatments under Alternatives B, C, D, and E would provide
anchor points (relatively safe, defensible locations) that facilitate fire suppression activities.
Since it is not known exactly where or when a fire may start, having a dispersed pattern of fuel
reduction treatment can provide more options for fire suppression by connecting these
treatment areas depending on where the fire is, how fast it is spreading, and the amount, type
and location of suppression forces (Agee, etal, 2000, Finney, et al, 1997).
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Dispersed treatments rely on the topology of the treatment units as parts of a pattern to reduce
spread rates and intensities (Martin et al, 1989, Finney, 2001). Dispersed treatments facilitate
all suppression tactics (direct, indirect, and parallel attacks) by slowing overall fire growth and
allowing units to be connected by firelines at the time the fires occur. Extensive coverage by a
dispersed treatment pattern offers the optimal strategy for multiple fire spread directions and
can change fire behavior irrespective of suppression actions.
The BLM is planning to implement two fuels reduction projects (Whiskey South and Eastside
Township) within the Elk City Township adjacent to the American and Crooked River project
area. The purpose of these projects is to reduce the risk of high intensity wildland fire to life,
property and natural resources in the Elk City area.
Under the other-than-worst-case weather conditions that have historically produced large and
severe fires, fire behavior can be modified by changing fuels through fuel treatments. Fire
behavior under the worst-case conditions is rarely responsive to either treatment or suppression
effects.
FOREST PLAN COMPLIANCE
Alternatives B, C, D, and E of the project are consistent with the Forest Plan (USDA FS, 1987a).
They protect resource values by using prescribed fire to accomplish fire and fuels treatments
that are cost-effective, compatible with the role of fire in forest ecosystems, and responsive to
resource management objectives.
The following Forestwide Standards for Protection (Fire/Fuels), from among those listed on
page 11-25,26 of the Nez Perce National Forest Plan, apply to this project and will be met as
follows:
TABLE 3.75 - FOREST PLAN COMPLIANCE - FIRE/FUELS
STANDARD
NUMBER
SUBJECT SUMMARY
COMPLIANCE ACHIEVED BY
FOREST PLAN STANDARDS
1
2
Fire management direction in this Forest Plan shall
guide the Fire Management Analysis and the resulting
Fire Management Action Plan. The Action Plan will
give specific fire management direction.
Undertake hazard reduction treatments if activity-
created fuels exceed 12 tons per acre of materials less
than 3 inches in diameter.
Adherence to the Clearwater/Nez Perce Fire
Management Plan for fire management and
prescribed fire direction.
Design Criteria #3. Preparation and
implementation of slash disposal plan based on
needed fuels reduction and silvicultural
objectives.
FOREST PLAN AMENDMENT 20 (PACFISH)
FM-1
FM-4
Design fuel treatment and fire suppression strategies,
practices, and actions so as not to prevent attainment
of Riparian Management Objectives, and to minimize
disturbance of riparian ground cover and vegetation
Design prescribed burn projects and prescriptions to
contribute to the attainment of the Riparian
Management Objectives.
Design Criteria #3, 5.
Design Criteria #3, 5.
08 08 08 Ui 08 CS
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3.5. AIR QUALITY
SCOPE OF THE ANALYSIS
The area potentially affected by smoke emissions includes the project area and the airsheds
that immediately surround it. The project area is located in Idaho Airshed No 13 Refer to map
below for location of Airshed.
The analysis of air quality includes identifying the adjacent and down wind airsheds of concern
(Class I and non-attainment areas) and comparing the amounts of smoke and particulate matter
to be produced as a result of the fuels treatment activities associated with each alternative The
analysis includes discussion of the consequences of wildfire in regards to air quality.
REGULATORY FRAMEWORK
The Clean Air Act, passed in 1963 by the US Congress and amended several times, is the
primary legal instrument for air resource management. The Clean Air Act amendments of 1977
set up a process that included designation of Class I and II areas for air quality management
The primary differences between Class I and II areas are in the protection and processes
provided in the 1977 amendments. Class I areas receive the highest levels of protection under
the Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) program. This program regulates air quality in
these areas through application of numerical criteria for specific pollutants and use of the Best
Available Control Technology (BACT).
As a member of the Montana/Idaho Smoke Management Group, the Nez Perce National Forest
adheres to the Environmental Protection Agency Interim Air Quality Policy on Wildland and
Prescribed Fires. The Operating Guide for the smoke management group is based upon the
interim policy, and all prescribed burning must be approved by the smoke coordinator prior to
burning to ensure that cumulative air quality impacts are minimized.
The Clean Air Act requires that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) identify pollutants
that have adverse effects on public health and welfare and to establish air quality standards for
each pollutant. Each state is also required to develop an implementation plan to maintain air
quality. The EPA has issued National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for sulfur
dioxide, carbon monoxide, ozone, nitrogen dioxide, lead and particulate matter 10 microns in
diameter or smaller (PM 10) and 2.5 microns and smaller (PM 2.5).
Idaho has similar standards for these pollutants. In general, concentrations of PM 10 greater
than 150 micrograms per cubic meter for longer than 24 hours, or greater than 50 micrograms
per cubic meter as an annual arithmetic mean, is considered a hazard to public health and
welfare. Similarly, concentrations of PM 2.5 greater than 65 micrograms per cubic meter for
longer than 24 hours, or greater than 15 micrograms per cubic meter as an annual arithmetic
mean, is considered a hazard to public health and welfare.
The Nez Perce National Forest Plan direction for air quality is to cooperate with the Idaho
Department of Health and Welfare in the State Implementation Plan (SIP) and to meet the
requirements of the SIP and State Smoke Management Plan (NPFP, Chapter II, Page 23).
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FIGURE 15- IDAHO-MONTANA AIRSHEDS
TAKEN FROM IDAHO-MONTANA AIRSHED GROUP -1999
Numbered Airshed Boundaries
The Nez Perce National Forest is a party to the North Idaho Smoke Management Memorandum
of Agreement (MOA), which establishes procedures to regulate the amount of smoke produced
by prescribed fire. This MOA is intended to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of
communications about, and coordination of, prescribed fire to avoid adverse effects on air
quality. This MOA can be found in the project file.
ANALYSIS METHODS
Particulate emissions production was calculated using the First Order Fire Effects Model
(FOFEM). FOFEM predicts the quantity of natural or activity fuel consumed by prescribed fire
and the resultant emissions. Fuel loadings are derived from forest cover type classifications as
represented in the analysis area.
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One major assumption made in FOFEM is that the entire area of concern experiences fire For
discontinuous burns, the results should be weighted by the percent of the area burned For the
purposes of this analysis, it is assumed that 60 percent of the acres to be treated by fire would
actually produce particulate emissions.
The assumptions and methods used in FOFEM for modeling emissions were taken from Hardy
et al. (1996). Emissions production depends both on fuel consumption and on the combustion
efficiency of the fire. Therefore, it is important to note that emissions quantities are derived from
tons of fuel consumed and not tons of fuel treated. FOFEM models emissions production not
visibility or dispersion. Categories of emissions estimated are PM 2.5 and PM 10 About 70 to
80 percent of PM 10 is actually in the PM 2.5 category. Idaho and Montana monitor for both
categories, therefore the amount of both are modeled in this analysis.
A "Decision Analysis for Smoke Modeling" (Atcheson et al., pg. 19, 20) was used to select the
level of modeling for this analysis. A threshold in this decision analysis for PM emissions is
established at 100 tons/year. This threshold is based on the minimum increase required to
establish the existence of a major source for non-compliance in PSD for downwind Class I
areas or to exceed the NAAQS standards. Since none of the alternatives in the analysis area
approaches or exceeds 100 tons/year based on 10 year implementation, no further analysis is
required.
The model input parameters and the output values as well as the emissions worksheets can be
found in the project file.
EXISTING CONDITION
PARTICULATE MATTER AND VISIBILITY
Air quality associated with the American and Crooked River Project analysis area is generally
considered good to excellent most of the year. Local adverse effects result from dust from
native-surfaced roads and smoke from prescribed burning, agricultural burning, and wildfires.
Climatic conditions in this central Idaho area are governed by a combination of large-scale and
small-scale factors. Among the large-scale factors are latitude, prevailing hemispheric wind
patterns, and extensive mountain barriers to the east and west. Small-scale or local factors
include the topographic setting and position (canyon, slope or ridge location), 'as well as
vegetation cover (Schroeder and Buck 1970). The average large-scale airflow is generally from
a westerly direction throughout the year.
The pre-settlement natural range of variability for smoke probably ranged from very clear and
clean in the non-fire months (November to May) to hazy and smoky for extended periods during
the fire months (June to October). Current air quality during non-fire months is probably close to
the natural range of variability, while during fire months it is probably outside the natural range
(i.e. cleaner) because most wildfires in the area are suppressed, thus the amount of smoke has
been reduced from historical averages.
The American and Crooked River Project analysis area is non-classified, but is considered to be
in compliance with the NAAQS. The closest non-attainment areas include portions of Missoula
County, Montana (approximately 100 air miles to the northeast), and Boise and Sandpoint,
Idaho (approximately 200 air miles to the southwest and northwest, respectively).
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The Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness, 8 air miles to the northeast, and the Hells Canyon National
Recreation Area, 44 air miles to the southwest, are the closest Class I areas to the American
and Crooked River Project analysis area. All other areas on the Nez Perce National Forest,
including the American and Crooked River Project analysis area, are designated Class II areas.
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
PARTICIPATE MATTER AND VISIBILITY
All action alternatives would require prescribed burning to reduce fuel loadings to an acceptable
level. The resulting smoke would affect air quality. Fugitive dust generated from road related
activities and increased vehicle traffic from logging operations would also temporarily affect air
quality.
Three methods of prescribed burning would be used to accomplish fuel load reduction:
Table 3.76.
See
• Broadcast burning is usually used in clearcuts. Because combustion is efficient, a
convection column forms which lifts most of the smoke above the mixing air layer.
• Underburninq would be used for both natural and activity created fuels. The objective is
to reduce fuel loading while protecting the residual overstory trees from damage due to
heat and flames. Since the burning is deliberately cool and slow, combustion is likely to
be inefficient. More particulate matter per acre of fire is often produced with this method
of burning than with other methods.
• Machine pile burning would be used for activity created fuels. This type of burning
concentrates slash in specific locations to eliminate the need to broadcast or underburn.
Slash is gathered and piled mechanically throughout the unit or at the landing. Piles are
burned after a season of curing when the fuel moistures are low resulting in efficient
combustion, thus lessened particulate matter. This type of burning has less effect on air
quality compared to underburning.
TABLE 3.76 - BURN TYPE ACREAGE BY ALTERNATIVE
Type of Burn
Broadcast
Underburn
Pile burn
Broadcast
Underburn
Pile burn
ACRES BY ALTERNATIVE
ALTB | ALTC | ALT D | ALT E
AMERICAN RIVER
114
61
409
320
443
736
163
76
483
CROOKED RIVER
373
498
704
163
76
841
384
540
982
36
36
241
275
405
613
Particulate matter released into the air as a result of prescribed burning can have adverse
effects on visibility and public health. The emission of particulate matter is related to the method
of burning conducted, as shown above, and how much burning of each method is conducted.
The concentrations of particulates at locations in the airshed is influenced by what other
activities are going on in the airshed, and by current or changing climatic conditions. Potential
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concentrations in the airshed at any one time are regulated through compliance with the
procedures of the North Idaho Smoke Management MOA as previously described.
The following discussion compares the direct and indirect effects of all the alternatives A table
displaying the PM 10 and PM 2.5 emissions expressed in tons/year by alternative is included at
the end of the discussion.
ALTERNA TIVE A-NO A CTION ALTERNA TIVE
There would be no direct effects on the existing condition of air quality from this alternative
because no prescribed burning would occur. No particulate matter would be produced and
visibility would not be impaired due to prescribed burning.
Indirect effects would be that fuel loadings continue to increase and wildfires would continue to
occur. Wildfire occurrence without previous fuel reduction is likely to produce two to four times
greater particulate matter emissions than would be generated by prescribed fire (Quiqlev and
Arbelbide, 1997).
EFFECTS COMMON TO ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES
The alternatives differ only in the amount of particulate matter produced (Table 3 76) Fugitive
dust generated from road activities and increased vehicle traffic would also temporarily affect air
quality by implementing any of the action alternatives.
Indirect effects would be a long-term decrease in fuel loading following implementation of
prescribed burning. Therefore, there would be a decrease in particulate matter emissions and
the impairment of visibility from wildfires when they occur.
TABLE 3.77 - APPROXIMATE ANNUAL EMISSIONS BY ALTERNATIVE, BASED ON 10 YEAR
IMPLEMENTATION
Emissions
(tons/year)
PM 10
PM2.5
Alternative
A
B
40.3
34.2
C
44.4
37.6
D
57.7
48.9
E
31.2
26.5
FULL SUMMARY OF CUMULATIVE EFFECTS FOR AIR QUALITY
Alternative D has the greatest chance of causing adverse impacts because it treats the most
acres of fuel and produces the greatest total quantity of particulate emissions. Alternative C has
the second highest acres and second greatest total quantity of particulate emissions followed by
Alternative B. Alternative E would have the least effect on air quality because it has the least
total acres to be treated and produces the least total quantity of particulate emissions.
EXISTING CONDITION
• Air quality in the American and Crooked River Project analysis area is good to excellent.
• Local and regional climatic conditions, as well as topography, influence smoke
concentrations and dispersal.
• Air quality is probably outside its natural range of variability during normal wildfire
months.
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• There are no non-attainment areas for National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS)
in close proximity to the analysis area.
• The Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness is the only Class I airsheds in close proximity to the
analysis area.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES
• There would be no direct effects on air quality by implementing Alternative A.
• There would be the likelihood of increased particulate emissions from wildfires by
implementing Alternative A.
• Implementation of any of the action alternatives would directly affect air quality.
• Implementation of any of the action alternatives would decrease particulate matter
emissions from wildfires.
• Alternative D would produce the greatest amount of particulate matter emissions,
followed by alternatives C, B, and E..
• Competition in the airshed is regulated by the Montana-Idaho Airshed Group to avoid
exceeding the NAAQS.
• Impacts to air quality(visability) in the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness by implementing
alternative B, C, D, or E would be short in duration and impacts would be minimal due to
the relatively small burn unit size
IRREVERSIBLE OR IRRETRIEVABLE EFFECTS
Impacts from smoke to the air resource are temporary; therefore there are no irreversible or
irretrievable effects on the air resource under any of the alternatives.
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS
Consideration of cumulative effects for air quality takes a different approach than for other
resource areas. Past activities in the analysis area don't necessarily enter consideration, except
in the sense that use of existing roads and facilities may contribute to fugitive dust levels as
described above. Present use of and activities in the analysis area are continuing with a current
assessment of good to excellent air quality.
All the action alternatives would affect air quality. Locally adverse and cumulative impacts to air
quality could be expected if extensive prescribed burning occurred under any of the action
alternatives, particularly if that burning occurred in conjunction with on-going wildfires or other
prescribed burning activities in and adjacent to the airshed. Other potential prescribed burning
projects that could have an impact are the listed in the table at the beginning of this chapter
(description of the past, present and foreseeable future actions). However, mitigation measures
and procedures outlined in the North Idaho Smoke Management Memorandum of Agreement
are intended to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of communications about, and
coordination of, prescribed burning to avoid adverse cumulative effects.
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FOREST PLAN COMPLIANCE
Prescribed burning under the action alternatives would comply with the requirements of the
Clean Air Act. Both PM 10 and PM 2.5 emissions are quantified and modeled for their effects
on adjacent and downwind airsheds, particularly non-attainment and Class I areas.
The action alternatives are consistent with Forest Plan standards and guides in that
implementation would be in cooperation with Idaho Department of Health and Welfare bv
complymg with the procedures outlined in the North Idaho Smoke Management Memorandum
of Agreement.
The following Forestwide Standards for Air Quality, from among those listed on page II-23 of the
Nez Perce National Forest Plan, apply to this project and will be met as follows:
STANDARD
NUMBER
TABLE 3.78 - FOREST PLAN COMPLIANCE - FIRE/FUELS
SUBJECT SUMMARY
Cooperate with the Idaho Department of Health and
Welfare in the State Implementation Plan (SIP). Meet
the requirements of the SIP and State Smoke
Management Plan.
COMPLIANCE ACHIEVED BY
Design Criteria #35, 36, and 37. Follow
procedures outlined in the North Idaho Smoke
Management MOA, and Montana/Idaho Airshed
Group Operating Guide.
os
cs ca
3.6. RECREATION
INTRODUCTION
Recreation is an important activity in the 752,000-acre South Fork Clearwater River Subbasin
of which the project area is a small portion. The early trails and wagon roads throughout the
South Fork Clearwater River Subbasin historically were, and remain, important access routes
for people in nearby prairie and river communities to hunt, fish, and camp on the Nez Perce
National Forest. Most of the recreational uses are dispersed activities such as big game
hunting; picnicking; camping; berry picking; fishing; woodcutting; and driving for pleasure.
The Forest Plan forecasted large, almost equal increases in recreation demand for all recreation
opportunity spectrum (ROS) classes in the next fifty years it should be noted that motorized use
by Off Road Vehicles (ORV) is increasing and this use is not being limited to roads and trails
ORV use in areas where access can be obtained (open ridges, firelines and open country) is
increasing rapidly. The American River area is the only area that has designated ORV trails in
the Southfork Clearwater River Subbasin (USDA FS, 1998a).
SCOPE OF THE ANALYSIS
The analysis area for recreation and scenic integrity that may be directly, indirectly and
cumulatively affected is the American River and Crooked River project area. Vegetation and
transportation management proposals could affect recreational opportunities and use, as well as
scenic integrity, within the area. The proposed actions would have little effect on recreation and
scenic integrity outside the area.
Indicators analyzed in detail include the recreation opportunity spectrum (ROS) Visual Quality
Objectives (VQO) and scenic integrity level (SIL) and other recreation features.
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REGULATORY FRAMEWORK
The Nez Perce Forest Plan established goals and objectives for the management of recreation
resources on the forest (pages II 2-4). Specific Forest Plan goals that apply to recreation and
scenic resources in the American and Crooked River project area include:
• Provide a wide range of dispersed and developed recreation opportunities and
experiences by providing access, facilities, and education necessary to meet public
demand.
• Provide firewood for personal use.
• Present diverse, natural-appearing landscapes to view throughout the Forest
• Provide administrative sites and facilities that effectively and safely serve the public and
accommodate the workforce.
ANALYSIS METHODS
In the initial steps of selecting harvest units, (during alternative development) impacts to the
Recreation Opportunity Spectrum (ROS) classes and Visual Quality Objectives (VQO) were
considered and the harvest units were either dropped or modified from any of the alternatives to
assure that the ROS and VQOs identified in the Forest Plan would not be compromised. The
Interim Visual Quality Objectives, as identified in the Forest Plan, were reviewed for the project
area. Potential effects of the harvest units and road construction were determined from the
topographic relief and proximity of harvest units to sensitive viewsheds.
An inventory of current recreational use areas (dispersed campsites) was used to evaluate
alternatives based on potential impacts on recreational opportunities within the project area.
Recreation opportunities associated with dispersed activities such as hunting, fishing, camping
and driving were used.
The Recreation Opportunity Spectrum (USDA FS, 1986) describes recreation settings and
opportunities, and is used to evaluate recreation potential for an area. The Nez Perce National
Forest ROS inventory is described in the Forest Plan FEIS (USDA FS, 1987c), Chapter III, p. 8-
9. The Forest has been inventoried and divided into four classes: Primitive, Semi-primitive Non-
motorized (SPNM), Semi-primitive Motorized (SPM) and Roaded Natural (RN). The South Fork
Clearwater River Landscape Assessment (USDA FS, 1998a) mapped the area as Roaded
Modified rather than Roaded Natural because the area was more intensively modified from past
timber harvest. The Roaded Modified classification was developed by the Pacific Northwest
Region for areas that have been modified from timber harvest. The opportunities in Roaded
Modified are similar to those of in Roaded Natural, but Roaded Modified landscapes are
generally more modified. Recreational sites impose less restrictions and there are fewer
sanitary facilities on average in the roaded modified definition. This classification was applied in
the SFLA area and included the portions of the project area. For this analysis, Roaded Modified
is a subset of Roaded Natural. . Descriptions are provided below.
Semi-primitive Motorized areas are greater than 2500 acres and at least Vz mile but
not further than 3 miles from all roads, railroads or trails with motorized use. Other
people are occasionally encountered. Structures are rare and isolated. Within these
settings, there are ample opportunities to practice outdoor skills and to achieve a feeling
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
of self-reliance. Modifications to the landscape are subtle and would not draw the
attention of an observer anywhere within the area. Motorized use is permitted.
Roaded Natural includes any area within 1/2 mile of "better than primitive" roads. They
are natural-appearing settings that may have modifications that range from being easily
noticed to strongly dominant to the observers within the area; but from sensitive travel
routes, these alterations would remain unnoticed or visually subordinate. Highly
designed roads or highways may be common. Encounters with other people are
frequent on roads, but moderate on trails and away from roads.
Roaded Modified includes areas within 1/2 mile of "better than primitive" roads. There
are likely to be areas containing large clearcuts, skid roads and landings detracting from
the natural appearance of the area. There are opportunities to get away from other
recreationalists, but logging operations may be dominant. No facilities are provided and
users must be self-reliant.
Some of the ROS terminology includes the terms roaded and/or motorized, this does not
necessarily mean that that those areas are open to motorized use. Access has been restricted
on some roads and trails for resource protection. See Section 3.8. - Transportation for more
information.
Recreational use within the American and Crooked River project area is heavily influenced by
the presence of the existing transportation system and long history of resource management.
Scenery associated with recreational uses is an important part of that recreational experience
The landscapes we see today are the result of both natural and human processes that have
occurred over time. Visual Quality Objects have been developed to manage for the scenic
values within the Forest. Visual Quality Objectives (VQOs) were mapped as part of the Forest
planning process, using Agriculture Handbook 462 Visual Management System - Volume 2
Chapter 1, 1974. VQOs refer to the degree of acceptable alteration of the characteristic
landscape. Interim VQOs were established for specific Forest Plan management areas in
combination with other resource goals, but decisions on their adoption were deferred until
Forest Plan implementation.(USDA FS 1987a, Chapter II, p. 16, as amended by Forest Plan
Amendment #4). The following definitions for interim VQOs apply to landscapes within the -
project area:
Retention: "activities may only repeat form, line, color and texture which are frequently
found in the characteristic landscape, and should not be evident to the casual forest
visitor."
Partial Retention: "Activities may repeat form, line, color and texture which are found
infrequently or not at all in the characteristic landscape, but remain visually subordinate
to the visual strength of the characteristic landscape."
Modification: "Activities of vegetative and landform alteration must borrow from
naturally established line, form, color and texture so that their visual characteristics are
those of natural occurrences within the surrounding area when viewed as middle ground
or background. Activities may visually dominate the original characteristic landscape.
Maximum Modification: "activities of vegetative and landform alterations may
dominate the characteristic landscape. However, when viewed as background, the
visual characteristics must be those of natural occurrences within the surrounding area
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
or character type. When viewed as foreground or middle ground, they may not appear
to completely borrow from naturally established form, line, color or texture. Alterations
may also be out of scale or contain detail that is incongruent with natural occurrences as
seen in foreground or middle ground.
Since the Forest Plan was signed, the Visual Management System has been updated with
Agriculture Handbook 701 Landscape Aesthetics: A Handbook for Scenery Management, 1995
(AH-701). The new system utilizes "Scenic Integrity Levels" (SIL) as an indicator of the
landscape completeness, or the degree of naturalness (AH-701, p. 2-4). Scenic integrity is a
continuum ranging over five levels of integrity from Very High to Very Low. For this analysis,
VQOs are used, but a table that displays the corresponding SIL terminology from the new
handbook is provided to compare the SIL to the adopted or recommended VQOs. The VQOs
for the project area, with the corresponding SILs, are displayed in Table 3.40.
The Scenery Management System presents a vocabulary for managing scenery and a
systematic approach for determining the relative value and importance of scenery in a national
forest. Ecosystems provide the environmental context for this scenery management system.
The system is used in the context of ecosystem management to inventory and analyze scenery
in a national forest, to assist in the establishment of overall resource goals and objectives, to
monitor the scenic resource, and to ensure high quality scenery for future generations.
EXISTING CONDITION AND ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
The South Fork Clearwater River Landscape Assessment 1998 (USDA FS, 1998a)
characterized the ecological and social conditions in the South Fork Clearwater sub-basin, and
provided a context for future forest management decisions in the area. The assessment
recommended recreation themes for the South Fork face drainages and Red River watershed
(USDA FS, 1998a, pp 142 and 145).
Motorized recreation is an important use in the American and Crooked River watershed areas of
the Nez Perce National Forest. ORV use has increased over the last decade both locally and
nationally and is expected to continue to increase in the future. Trails and roads in the
watershed generally meet current recreation needs. Restructuring the roads and trails systems
into loops while reducing overall road density in the watershed would facilitate more effective
ORV management in the future.
Maintaining current hunting and fishing resources in the watershed is important in the project
area. Increasing wildlife resources and removing roads and trails that provide easy access to
hunting areas is beneficial for wildlife species such as elk (see Section 3.11. - Wildlife). Fishing
access and use within the watershed is moderate at this time due to the existing condition of the
watershed (see the Section 3.3. - Fisheries).
RECREATION OPPORTUNITY SPECTRUM/VISUAL QUALITY OBJECTIVES AND SCENIC
INTEGRITY LEVELS
The Recreation Opportunity Spectrum (ROS) classification for the project area is 97 percent
'Roaded Natural', with the other 3 percent classified as 'Semiprimitive motorized'. Table 3.79
displays the Visual Quality Objectives and their corresponding 'Scenic Integrity Levels' in the
project area. Most of the project has been designed to meet the existing VQOs, but minor
adjustments may be made depending on the ongoing mountain pine beetle infestation and its
effect on lodgepole pine.
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TABLE 3.79 - NEZ PERCE FOREST PLAN VISUAL QUALITY OBJECTIVES, SCENIC INTEGRITY LEVELS
AND RECREATE OPPORTUN.TY SPECTRUM CLASSES FOR THE AMERICAN AND CROOKED R,VER
PROJECT AREA
SCENIC INTEGRITY
VISUAL QUALITY
OBJECTIVE (VQO)
Retention
Partial Retention
~~—-^^_^_~^__^_
Modification
Maximum Modification
TOTAL:
Moderate
Low
^•
Very Low
American River
drainage (acres, %)1
338 (2%)
1,452(9%)
2,586(17%)
11,214(72%)
15,590(100%)
Crooked River
drainage {acres, %)1
3,507(15%)
7,210(31%)
12,550 (54%)
23,290(100%)
OTHER RECREATION FEATURES
Recreational use in American and Crooked River watersheds has increased steadily over the
years Camping, fishing, hunting, driving and Off-Highway-Vehicle are the most common uses
Motorized use particularly ORV use, is increasing in the watershed. Most recreaS use fs
recreating, f "'TT" f^** S^ 3S hunting' fishin9< camPin9' ^y P^9
recreational suction dredging/gold panning and snowmobiling and driving. Most recreation
fromSontren f^t™ F"™***^ f^9* in the ^ * significant percentage of hunters are
rrom out-of-state or other parts of Idaho.
CAMPING
"** Valua™e watersheds for dispersed and semi-developed
usn ."f1 C6rltral ldaha FadlitieS devel°Ped for dispersed camping are
usually close to water and often include an outhouse, and a fire ring. '
HUNTING
Moose, elk and deer hunting is also an important activity in the watershed.
ROAD-ORIENTED RECREATION
H (ORV) use throu9nout the South Fork Clearwater subbasin is increasing on
and off the existmg roads and trails. The project area is used by ORVs and is managed to
provide road-oriented recreation, with a management emphasis on reducing adverse effects
and overall road densities. Existing trail systems are showing tread widening from ORV use
The available road and trail system have not been modified to accommodate the wider wheeled
veh.cles, and use on closed roads and trails has increased. ORV use occurs throughout
summer months, and in the fall for hunting. In winter most of the watershed is inaccessible to
motorized access, except by snowmobile.
Acres were rounded to the nearest acre. Source: Dave Green, CIS, USDA FS.
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3.6.1. AMERICAN RIVER
INTRODUCTION
Places most often associated with the American River portion of the project area include Elk
City, ranches, homesteads, and pastures. Scenic integrity from view points along the Elk City
Wagon Road, Kirk's Fork trail, Flat Iron trail, Anderson Butte trail and connectors, and Limber
Luke trailhead is important. Recreation activities include big game hunting, driving for pleasure,
and various motorized and non-motorized trail uses. The Elk City Township is a combination of
BLM, private and some state lands. It is a rural, pastoral setting, with a small town within a
remote, forested landscape. Elk City has become a destination place on driving tours primarily
from the Selway basin and along the Elk City Wagon Road. Anderson Butte Lookout is a
popular destination for trail riders, horse users and hikers via the Anderson Butte National
Recreation Trail. Motorized and non-motorized trail use is increasing. ORV use (specifically
ORVs) is increasing in popularity on the trail system in this area. Non-motorized uses remain
relatively consistent, with light to moderate numbers of local and out-of-area recreational users
during the summer and fall seasons.
3.6.1.1. INDICATOR 1 - ROS/SILS
EXISTING CONDITION
The American River portion of the project area ROS classification is eight percent Semiprimitive
Motorized and 92 percent Roaded Natural The Semiprimitive Motorized is in the north eastern
corner of the American River project area north east of Flat Iron Ridge. The balance of the area
is categorized as Roaded Natural.
Table 3.79 above displays the VQO classification and amount of area in the American River
portion of the project area. The VQO retention areas are between Queen Creek and Box Sing
Creek along the 1810 road east of the Elk City Township and a narrow strip along the
northeastern boundary of the project area. The Partial Retention VQO area consists of a strip
facing Elk City along Flat Iron Ridge. The Modification VQO area consists of a strip along
American River north of the Elk City Township and a strip on the northern boundary of the
project area. The remainder of the project area is in the Maximum Modification VQO class.
The most sensitive travel route in the analysis area is Forest Road 443, from the Elk City
Township along American River toward the Limber Luke Trailhead. In American River along
Forest Road 443, the foreground is screened by a thick growth of lodgepole pine, and distant
landscape views (middle ground and background) are not very common.
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
ALTERNATIVE A - NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
Recreation Opportunity Spectrum Classifications and Visual Quality Objectives identified in the
Forest Plan for the American River portion of the project area would remain unchanged by the
'no action' alternative.
The transportation system or access prescriptions would not be changed by the 'no action'
alternative. The 'no action' alternative would not initiate any direct human-caused changes to
existing scenic condition of the American River project area. No timber harvest, road
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construction, road decommissioning, dispersed campsite improvement, or prescribed burning
would be scheduled. As lodgepole trees continue to die (from beetle infestation) and lose
needles, the scenic qualities of the area would continue to change. Species composition
changes will continue to occur and change the visual character.
ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, E
Forest visitors traveling in the American River watershed could encounter a very slight increase
in traffic, and could notice the proposed activity and some of the associated noise, dust or other
activities. There would be more openings that are visible in the project area due to proposed
activities. Some temporary changes to the recreational experience are expected from project
activities in the vicinity of some users favorite use areas or along roads and trails.
The transportation system would be reduced by the various amounts of road decommissioning
with the action alternatives. This reduction could create an increased sense of remoteness for
users in some areas over time; however contact with other users on main travel routes would
continue to be common. Road decommissioning of existing roads during the decommissioning
process may have a short-term negative effect on scenic resources, such as fresh exposed soil
from recontoured roadbeds. The long-term result of road decommissioning would create less
modified landscapes. In many instances, the former road prism would be gone, the slopes
recontoured, and the scenery of the area would eventually be restored to a more natural
condition. In most cases, vegetative rehabilitation of the road prism would reduce visual
evidence of the decommissioning within a few years. Shrub regrowth and revegetation of
exposed soil would hasten the visual restoration of the foreground views.
Road reconstruction is proposed to improve the road facilities, reduce effects of the roads on
aquatic resources, and provide for safer public use. In most of thse cases, the visual changes
would last for a few years after the work is completed and moderate as revegetation occurs.
Temporary road construction would be similar to road decommissioning or would have similar
effects as road decommissioning, except that the visual impact of a temporary road would last
one to three years.
No activities are proposed in the Semi Primitive Motorized area. Activities proposed in the
Roaded Natural Area are consistent with that classification, and treatment units Mere-selected to
have no effect on existing recreational sites. Although there will be some effects to recreational
experiences resulting from the action alternatives, the Recreation Opportunity Spectrum (ROS)
Classifications identified in the Forest Plan for the American River portion of the project area
would be maintained.
The harvest units were designed so as not to compromise VQOs identified in the Forest Plan.
Landscape alterations from the proposed vegetation treatments and temporary road
construction would be locally noticeable; however, most of the harvest activities take place
primarily in the Modification and Maximum Modification VQO classes and would blend in with
the existing modified areas. Treatment is proposed on approximately 83 acres in the Partial
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Retention classification. These treatments are consistent with the partial retention objective as
seen from Elk City and other important viewpoints. In addition, there is a one half mile segment
of temporary road and three small harvest units, approximately 24 acres in total within the
Retention classified area along the 887 trail (Box Sing trail) in insect infested lodgepole pine
stands. This will create three small openings that will be noticeable to the casual visitor to the
trail head and along the trail that will not meet the foreground retention VQO, however this
deviation from the VQO is allowed by the Nez Perce Forest Plan (USDA FS, 1987a) due to the
current insect infestation. The Forest Plan also allows a reasonable time after land disturbing
activities to meet the VQO. From the valley floor, views of proposed roads and harvest units
would be sufficiently screened by residual vegetation to achieve the VQO. None of the harvest
units discussed above, the road construction nor the road decommissioning are likely to be
visible from Forest Road 443 along American River, the most visually sensitive travel route.
Watershed restoration actions in American River will not impact identified VQO classifications
from important viewpoints.
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS (INCLUDES FORESEEABLE FUTURE ACTIONS)
Cumulative effects are the same as the direct and indirect effects, except on a broader scale
that would include locations of other projects.
3.6.1.2. INDICATOR 2 - OTHER RECREATIONAL USES
EXISTING CONDITION
The area is a popular big game hunting area for elk, moose, deer and bear. Flint Creek and
American River contain rainbow, cutthroat, brook and bull trout; steelhead and spring and
summer Chinook salmon. The American River portion of the project area has two developed
trailhead campsites (listed below) and scattered dispersed use by forest visitors who are usually
self-contained. Dispersed sites are scattered along open roads primarily at the junction of
closed gated roads by hunters who walk in on closed roads.
• KIRK'S FORK TRAILHEAD CAMPSITE is located 4 miles northeast of Elk City on
Forest Road #1809 at an elevation of 4,300 ft. Season of use is normally from May 15
thru November 15. Facilities include toilet, stock loading ramp, fire-ring, parking space
for a camper vehicle and several horse trailers. The site is a trailhead for Kirk's Fork
Trail #830 a National Recreation Trail leading to Anderson Butte.
• FLINT CREEK TRAILHEAD CAMPSITE is located 6.6 miles north of Elk City on Forest
Road #443 at an elevation of 4.240 ft. Season of use is normally from June 1 thru
October 31st. Facilities include a toilet, fire-ring, stock loading ramp, for one camper
vehicle and several horse trailers. The site is a trailhead and parking space Flint Creek
Trail #510.
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ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
ALTERNATIVE A - NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
The 'no action' alternative would have no effect on dispersed recreation or the developed
trailhead campsites within the American River analysis area.
ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, AND E
Forest visitors traveling in the American River watershed could encounter a very slight increase
in traffic, and could also notice the proposed activity and some of the associated noise Anglers
along American River could be displaced by the proposed project, due to traffic noise and /or
watershed restoration actions. Hunters could also be displaced by activities associated with the
action alternatives or encounter different conditions for several seasons. The quality of
experience of campers in the American River watershed could be reduced by increased activity
during the implementation of the proposed actions.
The nearest timber harvest to the Kirk's Fork Trailhead campsite is approximately one-half mile
away and is screened by a ridge. The nearest timber harvest to the Flint Creek Trailhead
campsite is approximately 1000 ft away. The harvest unit is to be cable logged and a thick
stand of lodgepole would screen the harvest activity from the site. The Flint Creek Trailhead
campsite at present has an old harvest unit approximately 1000 feet to the north and is
screened by the same thick growth of lodgepole. The direct and indirect effects would be noise
during the implementation of the project.
One access change is proposed in the American River analysis area, to the 1.6-mile long Box
Sing Lee Trail # 887. This trail would change from "Open to all Motorized" to "Open to 2-
Wheeled Motorized" and snowmobiles.
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS (INCLUDES FORESEEABLE FUTURE ACTIONS)
Past vegetation and transportation activities have influenced the current recreational
opportunities and use of the American River project area, so their effects are part of the existing
conditions described above. None of the foreseeable actions (Table 3.1) are near the two
developed trailhead campsites and would have no effect on their use. There would be no
cumulative effects with any of the action alternatives for the existing array of recreation
opportunities.
IRREVERSIBLE, IRRETRIEVABLE EFFECTS
No Irreversible or Irrerrievable effects are anticipated on ROS, VQO's or other recreational
activities for any of the alternatives.
3.6.2. CROOKED RIVER
INTRODUCTION
Places most often associated with the Crooked River portion of the project area include
Crooked River dredge mining, the Orogrande townsite, Gospel Hump, and Penman Hill access
are a few of the places people associate with this area. Recreation activities include dispersed
camping, fishing, ORV use, and driving for pleasure. The highly altered stream channel from
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dredge mining dominates the view of Crooked River travelers. The road is a popular travel way
for motorists on the "Gold Rush Loop Auto Tour" from Crooked River to Elk City via Penman Hill
and Dixie. It is also the main motorized access to the east side of the Gospel Hump
Wilderness. The road accommodates heavy ORV and snowmobile use. Two of the fastest
growing activities in this area are snowmobiling and ORV use. The Jerry Walker cabin, a Forest
Service facility, is available to the public for rent. Private lands along Crooked River are being
developed for vacation home sites.
3.6.2.1. INDICATOR 1 - ROS/SILS
EXISTING CONDITION
The Crooked River portion of the project area ROS is classified as 100 percent Roaded Natural.
Table 3.79 above displays the VQO and corresponding SIL in the Crooked River portion of the
project area. The Partial Retention VQO area consists of the area along the main Crooked
River Road to the southern end of the analysis area. The Maximum Modification VQO area
consists of the entire Relief Creek drainage, Silver Creek drainage and several small areas
scattered in the northwest corner. The remainder of the area is in the Modification VQO
consisting of the area between the Partial Retention VQO area buffering the Crooked River
Road from Highway14 to Relief Creek, and continuing along the Partial Retention VQO Crooked
River buffer on the west side to the old Orogrande townsite. Partial Retention VQO also
includes the ridge between Relief Creek and Silver Creek and Upper Quartz Creek.
Modifications to the landscape have occurred in the project area since early in the twentieth
century. The most heavily modified locations are found in the middle and upper portions of the
project area. Mining, timber harvest and road building throughout the project area have
contributed to a scenic integrity of Partial Retention to Maximum Modification. Mining is the
most evident modification in the lower portions of the project area.
The sensitive travel route in the analysis area is Forest Road 233, from the Highway 14 along
Crooked River to the old Orogrande townsite and then on Forest Road 311 to Penman Hill. In
Crooked River along Forest Road 233 and 311, the foreground is screened steep topography
and by a thick growth of lodgepole pine, and distant landscape views (middle ground and
background) are not very common.
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
ALTERNATIVE A - NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
Impacts are the same as those identified in the American River portion of the project area, (see
section 3.6.1.1).
ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, AND E
Effects on ROS are the same as those Identified in the American River portion of the project
area. Effects for VQO are similar to those identified in the American River portion of the project
area, with the following exception (see section 3.6.1.1).
The harvest units were designed so as not to compromise VQOs identified in the Forest Plan.
Landscape alterations from the proposed vegetation treatments and temporary road
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construction would be locally noticeable; however, the harvest activities take place primarily in
the Modification and Maximum Modification VQO classes and would blend in with the existing
modified areas. Treatment is proposed on approximately 121 acres in eight harvest units within
the Partial Retention classification. The proposed treatments will meet the partial retention VQO
from the important viewpoints.
From the valley floor, views of proposed roads and harvest units would be sufficiently screened
by residual vegetation to achieve the VQO. None of the harvest units, road construction, and
road decommissioning are likely to be visible from Forest Road 233 and 311 along the Crooked
River the most visually sensitive travel route. Watershed restoration actions in Crooked River
would not impact identified VQO classifications.
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS COMMON TO ALL ALTERNATIVES
Cumulative effects are the same as the direct and indirect effects, except on a broader scale
that would include locations of other projects. .
3.6.2.2. INDICATOR 2 - OTHER RECREATIONAL USES
EXISTING CONDITION
The area is a popular big game hunting area for elk, moose, deer and bear. Crooked River
contains rainbow, cutthroat, brook and bull trout; steelhead and spring and summer Chinook
salmon. The Crooked River portion of the project area has 15 Dispersed campsites (listed
below) and scattered dispersed use by forest visitors who are usually self-contained. f
• CROOKED RIVER CAMPSITE #1 AND #2 are located 1 mile from State Highway 14
each site has parking space for two camper vehicles and a fire-ring. The sites are ?
located at an elevation of 3,860 ft and have a season of use from May 31 thru October t
31.
• CROOKED RIVER CAMPSITE # 3 is located 2.6 miles from State Highway 14 at an c
elevation of 3.960 ft, with a season of use from May 31 thru October 31. Facilities
include a toilet, fire-ring and parking space for two camper vehicles. f:
• CROOKED RIVER CAMPSITE # 4 is located 2.4 miles from State Highway 14 at an
elevation of 3.960 ft, with a season of use from May 31 thru October 31. Facilities *
include a toilet, fire-rings, five separate camping areas and parking space for twelve *
camper vehicles.
• CROOKED RIVER CAMPSITE # 5 is located 2.7 miles from State Highway 14 at an :
elevation of 3.940 ft, with a season of use from May 31 thru October 31. Facilities
include a fire-ring and parking space for two camper vehicles. c
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RELIEF CREEK CAMPSITE is located 8.4miles from State Highway 14 at an elevation
of 4,340 ft, with a season of use from May 31 thru October 31. Facilities include a fire-
ring and parking space for three camper vehicles.
BAKER GULCH CAMPSITE is located 9.0 miles from State Highway 14 at an elevation
of 4,380 ft, with a season of use from May 31 thru October 31. Facilities include a fire-
rings and parking space for two camper vehicles.
FIVEMILE CAMPSITE is located 11 miles from State Highway 14 at an elevation of
4,480 ft, with a season of use from May 31 thru October 31. Facilities include a toilet,
fire-rings and parking space for five camper vehicles.
FIVEMILE POND DAY USE SITE is located 11 miles from State Highway 14 at an
elevation of 4,480 ft, with a season of use from May 31 thru October 31. Facilities
include a toilet and a fishing pond managed by Idaho Fish and Game.
OLD DREDGE CAMPSITE is located 11.2 miles from State Highway 14 at an elevation
of 4,500 ft, with a season of use from May 31 thru October 31. Facilities include fire-
rings and parking space for four camper vehicles. The site is the last working site of the
Mt. Vernon Dredge.
OROGRANDE CAMPSITE #1 is located 11.4 miles from State Highway 14 at an
elevation of 4,510 ft, with a season of use from May 31 thru October 31. Facilities
include a fire-ring and parking space for two camper vehicles.
OROGRANDE CAMPSITE #2 is located 11.6 miles from State Highway 14 at an
elevation of 4,510 ft, with a season of use from May 31 thru October 31. Facilities
include a fire-ring and parking space for two camper vehicles.
OROGRANDE CAMPSITE #3 is located 12 miles from State Highway 14 at an elevation
of 4,580 ft, with a season of use from May 31 thru October 31. Facilities include a toilet,
fire-rings and parking space for three camper vehicles.
OROGRANDE CAMPSITE #4 is located 12.3 miles from State Highway 14 at an
elevation of 4,600 ft, with a season of use from May 31 thru October 31. Facilities
include a toilet, fire-rings and parking space for three camper vehicles.
OLD OROGRANDE TOWNSITE is located 12.6 miles from State Highway 14 at an
elevation of 4,700 ft, with a season of use from May 31st thru October 31st, the only
development is a mound of dirt that is used as a stock unloading ramp, the site is used
by ORV users that use the site as a staging area to head up to the Buffalo-Hump or
Wildhorse Lake areas.
SUMMIT FLAT DISPERSED SITE is at the junction of Trail # 802 and Forest Road #
478. The site is used by ORV users to access the Sourdough Santiman area and by
hikers and stock users to access the Gospel-Hump Wilderness.
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ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
ALTERNATIVE A - NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
The 'no action' alternative would have no effect on dispersed recreation or campsites within the
Crooked River analysis area.
ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, AND E
Forest visitors traveling in the Crooked River watershed could encounter an increase in traffic,
and could also notice the proposed activity and some of the associated noise. Anglers along
Crooked River could be displaced by the proposed project, due to traffic, noise and /or
watershed restoration actions. Hunters could also be displaced by activities associated with the
action alternatives or encounter different conditions for several seasons. The quality of
experience of campers in the Crooked River watershed could be reduced by increased activity
during the implementation of the proposed actions. The dispersed campsite at Relief Creek
would be impacted by watershed improvements that would limit camper's opportunity to camp
further up relief Creek due to the road obliteration. None of the harvest activities proposed are
close to any of the campsites listed above and no impacts are anticipated.
Two access changes are proposed in the Crooked River analysis area, a change in the access
prescription on Trail # 820 Porter that would change from "Open to all Motorized" (1 mile) to
"Open to 2-Wheeled Motorized" and Trail 821 Silver Creek (4.1 miles) which shares the route
with Forest Road 9836 would be closed to highway vehicles and continue to be "Open to All
Motorized Trail Uses".
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS FOR ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES
Past vegetation and transportation activities have influenced the current recreational
opportunities and use of the Crooked River project area, so their effects are part of the existing
conditions described above. None of the foreseeable actions (Table 3.1) are near the 15
dispersed campsites and would have no effect on their use. There would be no cumulative
effects with any of the action alternatives for the existing array of recreation opportunities.
IRREVERSIBLE, IRRETRIEVABLE EFFECTS
No Irreversible or Irretrievable effects are anticipated on ROS, VQO's or other recreational
activities for any of the alternatives.
FULL SUMMARY OF CUMULATIVE EFFECTS FOR RECREATION
Past vegetation and transportation activities have influenced the current recreational
opportunities and use of the American and Crooked River project area, so their effects are part
of the existing conditions described above. There are no cumulative effects associated with
Alternative A.
The proposed alternatives would not exclude any of the existing uses, but would slightly modify
the amount of recreational access. The proposed transportation management activities would
reduce the level of off-highway vehicle access slightly with the least reduction in Alternative B,
Alternative C has more of a reduction than Alternative B, and the most reduction is in
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Alternatives D and E. This would primarily be through road decommissioning which is
discussed in more detail in the transportation section. None of the foreseeable actions (Table
3.1) would alter ROS classes and would have minor effects on other recreational uses.
Past vegetation modifications throughout the project area are in varying stages of recovery.
Activities that have occurred near sensitive travel routes, while evident, have recovered to a
point where they are dominating the landscape at a decreasing rate. There are no expected
cumulative effects on visual resources from the proposed vegetation and transportation
management activities since the adopted visual quality objectives (scenic integrity levels) for the
area would be met from the midground and background viewpoints. Foreground VQOs will not
be met along Trail 887 where the trail intersects with the harvest units.
FOREST PLAN COMPLIANCE
Past vegetation modifications throughout the project area are in varying stages of recovery.
Activities that have occurred near sensitive travel routes, while evident, have recovered to a
point where they are dominating the landscape at a decreasing rate. There are no expected
cumulative effects on visual resources from the proposed vegetation and transportation
management activities since the adopted visual quality objectives (scenic integrity levels) for the
area would be met.
TABLE 3.80 - FOREST PLAN COMPLIANCE - RECREATION RESOURCES
STANDARD
NUMBER
SUBJECT SUMMARY
COMPLIANCE ACHIEVED BY
FOREST PLAN STANDARDS
Manage for a full array of.
recreation opportunities,
from primitive to roaded
natural, as described by
the Recreation
Opportunity Spectrum
(ROS).
Results of an analysis of proposed activities indicate that existing
ROS will be maintained
Create additional
opportunities for winter
recreation where user
needs indicate.
No changes are planned, if winter hauling utilize existing groomed
system trails, alternative route will be provided. Design Criteria # 36
Mitigate the physical
impacts of increased
dispersed recreation use.
Rehabilitation efforts will
be based on resource
damage to soils, water,
and vegetation. Efforts
may include closing the
site for the short or long
term, revegetation by
seed or plants, signing,
visitor contact, and
printed material
Camp sites causing resource damage will be rehabilitated and
armored to prevent future damage.
FOREST PLAN AMENDMENT 4
Meet the adopted visual
quality objectives (VQOs)
Analysis of alternatives indicate that no changes in VQOs will result
from these projects.
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STANDARD
NUMBER
SUBJECT SUMMARY
in all land-disturbing
activities over time
COMPLIANCE ACHIEVED BY
RM-1
RM-2
RM-3
Design, construct and
operate recreation
facilities...use of facilities
will not prevent
attainment of Riparian
Management Objective.
Forest Plan Amendment 20 (PACF1SH)
Adjust dispersed and
developed recreation
practices...relocation of
facilities
Address attainment of
Riparian Management
Objectives
Decommission one-quarter mile of existing road in the bottom of
Relief Creek to prevent the expansion of dispersed recreation sites
and other disturbances in the lower portions of the Relief Creek
RHCA and confine dispersed camping to a small, limited area near
the main Crooked River road.
Trails 887 and 830 crossings of Box Sing Creek would be
reconstructed to reduce sediment. The current access prescription
for Trail 887 would be changed to restrict ATV use. The trail tread
is 18" wide and does not accommodate ATV use, but is open to
ATV's.
Approximately 1.5 miles of Road 9836 will be converted from a
road to a motorized trail. The project will install erosion control
structures to reduce the rutting and erosion occurring on this road.
The road/trail prism width will not change as the route is a portion
of the groomed snowmobile system and the current road width is
needed for the snowmobile grooming equipment. Once converted
to a trail, this 1.5 mile section will be closed to highway vehicles.
NOTE: Since the Forest Plan was signed, the Visual Management System has been updated with
Agriculture Handbook 701 Landscape Aesthetics: A Handbook for Scenery Management, 1995 (AH-701).
The new system utilizes "Scenic Integrity Levels" (SIL) as an indicator of the landscape completeness, or
the degree of naturalness (AH-701, p. 2-4). Scenic integrity is a continuum ranging over five levels of
integrity from Very High to Very Low. For this analysis, terminology from the new handbook is used along
with the adopted or recommended VQOs
The following Forest Plan Standards for Recreation Management and Visual Resources do not
apply within the context of this project.
TABLE 3.81 - FOREST PLAN STANDARDS FOR RECREATION AND VISUAL RESOURCES THAT DO NOT APPLY
STANDARD
NUMBER
1
2
5
7
8
9
10
SUBJECT SUMMARY
Develop and administer an operating plan, consistent with
management area goals, for each outfitter and, when appropriate, for
other recreation special use permittees.
Provide for appropriate access based on an evaluation of user needs
and a transportation analysis.
Encourage users to assist in the maintenance and development of
recreation sites and facilities.
Maintain seasonal access to wilderness portals
Encourage the private sector to help provide needed recreation sites,
services, and facilities.
Review the Forest Travel Plan annually Designate areas for off-
road vehicle (ORV) Manage ORV use to minimize resource
damage and to promote public safety.
Promote a "pack it in, pack it out" policy through signing and public
EXPLANATION
Project will not effect an special
use permits
No changes to access
prescriptions are planned
Sites or facilities are not being
planned - only existing site
resource damage to be reduced
Standard does not apply
No new sites, services or
facilities are being planned
Review of Forest Travel Plan is
a separate effort. ...Managing
ORV use to minimize resource
damage will continue as
declining budgets allow.
Policy is an ongoing effort
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STANDARD
NUMBER
11
12
13
SUBJECT SUMMARY
education.
Evaluate the Nez Pence Trail for nomination to National Historic Trail
system.
Manage Papoose Cave as specified in "Management Standards for
Papoose Cave"
Continue to develop, support, and improve private and public
recreation and tourism programs.
EXPLANATION
separate from these projects
Only a short portion of the Nez
Perce Trail traverse the project
area
The Cave is not in the project
area
Policy is an ongoing effort
separate from these projects
OSO3C3O8CSCS
3.7. WILD AND SCENIC RIVERS
This analysis is limited to the impacts of the proposed action and alternatives on the suitability of
South Fork of the Clearwater as a designated river under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act.
3.7.1. AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT
WILD AND SCENIC RIVERS ACT
The Wild and Scenic River Act (Section 2(b)) specifies three classification categories: Wild,
scenic, and recreational. The potential classification of an eligible river is based on condition of
the river, and the adjacent lands, as it existed at the time of assessment determination.
The Nez Perce Forest Plan (USDA FS,.1987a) determined that the South Fork of the
Clearwater River be a candidate for study to be eligible under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act.
Both American and Crooked Rivers in the project area flow into the South Fork of the
Clearwater River.
TABLE 3.82 - WILD AND SCENIC RIVERS ACT CRITERIA APPLICABLE TO THE SOUTH FORK OF THE CLEARWATER
Attribute
Water Resource
Development
Shoreline
Development
Accessibility
Water Quality
Wild
Free of impoundment.
The presence of a few inconspicuous
structures, particularly those of historic or
cultural value. A limited amount of
domestic grazing or hay production. Little
or no evidence of past timber harvest. No
ongoing timber harvest.
Generally inaccessible except by trail. No
roads within the river corridor. A few
existing roads leading to the boundary of
river.
Meets or exceeds Federal criteria or
State standards for aesthetics; for
propagation of fish and wildlife; and for
recreation (swimming) except where
exceeded by natural conditions.
Recreational
Some existing impoundment or diversion.
Some development. Substantial evidence
of human activity. The presence of
residential development. Lands may have
been developed for a full range of
agricultural uses. May show evidence of
past and ongoing harvest.
Readily accessible by road. The
existence of parallel roads on one or both
banks as well as bridge crossings and
other river access points.
No criteria prescribed by the Wild &
Scenic Rivers Act. Rivers will not be
precluded from classification because of
water quality provided a water quality
improvement plan exists which is in
compliance with applicable Federal and
State laws.
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FOREST PLAN AMENDMENT 1
Forest Plan Amendment 1 changed Forest-wide standards for protecting streams eligible for
inclusion in the Wild and Scenic River System. Forest Standards outlined in Amendment 1
were:
1. Maintain or enhance the recreation, visual, wildlife, fisheries, and water quality values of
the existing and proposed Wild, Scenic, and Recreation Rivers.
2. No management activities will be carried out that would alter the eligibility or potential
classification of study waterways.
3. The Wild and Scenic corridor is defined as an area extending the length of the river
segment. Boundaries may include adjacent areas needed to protect the resources or
facilitate management of the river corridor.
4. In eligible and existing wild river corridors, roads may occasionally bridge the river.
Short stretches of conspicuous or long stretches of inconspicuous and well-screened
roads could be allowed. Timber harvest can be allowed; however, the existing character
and visual condition of the river corridor shall be maintained. Special emphasis will be
placed on visual quality for activities within seen areas outside of the river corridors. In
eligible and existing recreational river corridors, roads are allowed. Consideration will be
given to the type of use and protection of resource values within the river corridor.
Timber harvest can be allowed; however, the existing character and visual condition of
the immediate river corridor shall be maintained.
5. Existing wild and recreational rivers are closed to mineral entry. Eligible rivers are
subject to mineral exploration and claim location. Mitigation and reclamation measures
will be included in approved plans to minimize surface disturbance, sedimentation, and
visual impairment to the extent possible under 36 CFR 228.'
6. Manage for recreation experiences in context with the existing or proposed designation,
wild primitive or non-primitive non-motorized, and recreation semi-primitive motorized or
roaded natural.
7. Encourage participation and cooperation of public and private landholders in the study
and implementation of river classification on non-National forest lands.
8. Cultural resource surveys for location and identification of significant resources are
encouraged.
9. In the eligible river corridors, a no surface occupancy stipulation will be required in
mineral leases.
10. In eligible river corridors, new dams, diversions, or hydroelectric power facilities will be
prohibited to the extent of Forest Service authority. Existing facilities may be
maintained.
In 1989, Associated Loggers Inc. appealed Amendment 1 on the grounds that language
permitting expansion of river corridors beyond %-mile from either bank of a stream was arbitrary
and vague. The Forest conducted negotiations with the appellant and with American Rivers
Inc., at whose request the amendment was made. All parties agreed that the following
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sentence about streamside corridors would be deleted from Standard Number 3 in the
amendment:
"Boundaries may include adjacent areas needed to protect the resources or facilitate
management of the river corridor".
In 1991, a decision memo to revise Amendment #1 to the Nez Perce National Forest Plan was
approved. The revision was exactly the same as the original amendment except that the above
language was removed.
SUITABILITY STUDIES
A suitability study is an analysis of eligible rivers to determine the ones the Forest Service will
recommend to Congress as additions to the National Wild and River System. Such studies
answer the questions:
1. What is the best use of the river corridor? Should the outstanding values be fully
protected?
2. Assuming values are to be protected, what is the best method to protect the river
corridor?
Suitability studies may be completed in several ways:
1. Separate site-specific studies for a particular river or group of rivers;
2. As part of a multi-resource landscape assessment;
3. As part of a multi-resource project analysis; or
4. In the draft Forest Planning process.
The preferred method of completing a suitability study is via the Forest Planning process,
specifically: "The preferred process is to proceed with determining suitability by completing a
river study in the draft forest plan. An alternative is to delay the suitability determination on
eligible rivers until a subsequent separate study is carried out. If this latter alternative is used,
the forest plan must provide for protection of the river area until a decision is made as to the
future use of the river and adjacent lands. Unless the study process would be unduly delayed,
subsequent study of eligible rivers may be coordinated with a general revision of the forest
plan."
Rationale supporting that suitability studies are to be done as part of the revision of the Forest
Plan are:
1. Cost effectiveness;
2. Efficiency;
3. Customer Service;
4. Appeals;
5. Defines protection; and
6. Settles the question.
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In February 2000, the Nez Perce National Forest submitted a report to the Northern Regional
Office stating that suitability studies of the Forest's eligible rivers (including South Fork of the
Clearwater) would be conducted as part of the Forest Plan revision process. Funding to
complete these studies as part of the revision was also requested.
Subsequently, a suitability study for South Fork of the Clearwater was not done as part of the
American and Crooked River Project analysis. However, projects or activities identified in this
FEIS will not alter the eligibility or potential classification of South Fork of the Clearwater
(Revised Forest Plan Amendment #1; Standard #3).
OUTSTANDING RESOURCE VALUES
An eligible river is defined as "free flowing and possessing natural and/or cultural features which
are judged to be outstanding remarkable." An outstanding resource value must be a unique,
rare, or exemplary feature that is significant at a comparative regional or national scale The
outstanding resource values considered should:
a. Be located in the river or on its immediate shore lands (within %-mile on either side of
the river);
b. Contribute substantially to the functioning of the river ecosystem; or
c. Owe their location or existence to the presence of the river.
Outstanding resource value features evaluated, when designating rivers, include but are not
limited to: Scenic, recreational, cultural, geological, fisheries, wildlife, prehistoric historic
hydrologic, paleontologic, ecological, botanic, etc.
TABLE 3.83 • OUTSTANDING RESOURCE VALUES APPLICABLE TO THE SOUTH FORK CLEARWATER RIVER
Outstanding
Resource
Value Feature
Description of Features
Scenic
The landscape element or landform, vegetation, water, color, and related factors
result in notable or exemplary visual features and/or attractions. Consider seasonal
variations in vegetation, scale of cultural modifications, and the length of time
negative intrusions are viewed. Scenery and visual attractions may be highly
diverse over the majority of the river or river segment
Fisheries
The river is nationally or regionally an important producer of or provides exceptional
habitat for resident and/or anadromous fish particularly wild stocks of TES specie;
Geologic
"he river or area within the river corridor contains example(s) of a geologic feature,
process, or phenomena that is rare, unusual, or unique to the region of comparison.
Recreation
Recreational opportunities are unique enough to attract visitors from outside the
region. Visitors are willing to travel long distances to use the river resources for
recreational purposes.
Cultural
Prehistoric: There is evidence of occupation or use by native Americans. Sites
must have rare or unusual characteristics or exceptional human interest value.
Historic: Contains sites or features associated with a significant event, and
important person, or cultural activity of the past that was rare or unusual.
The standards within revised Forest Plan Amendment 1, Federal and State laws (Endangered
Species Act, Cultural Resource Protection, etc.), and agency manual and handbook policy
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provide consistent management criteria for four outstanding resource values including fisheries,
geological, recreational, and cultural. However, management direction for the scenic
outstanding resource value is less clear. It is well understood that activities that alter the scenic
values within the 1/4-mile corridor cannot occur. Opinions vary on managing visuals outside of
the corridor but which can still be observed from the corridor.
TABLE 3.84: MANAGEMENT DIRECTION FOR ELIGIBLE RIVERS
Scenic
Outstanding
Resource
Value
Definition
The
landscape
element or
landform,
vegetation
and related
factors result
in notable or
exemplary
visual features
and/or
attractions.
Forest Plan
Amendment #1
In eligible "Wild" river
corridors timber
harvest can be
allowed, however
special emphasis will
be placed on visual
quality for activities
within seen areas
outside of the river
corridors. Revision
explicitly removed the
language: "boundaries
may include adjacent
areas needed to
protect the resources
or facilitate mgt of the
river corridor".
Region 6 Letter
Scenery must be protected by
developing appropriate VQOs
to guide mgt within and outside
river corridors. Outside the
river corridor but within the
viewshed, management
discretion should be exercised
in determining the VQOs with
recognition of the national
status afforded by the
designation. Therefore if
scenery has been identified as
an Outstanding Resource
Value, this resource should be
protected within and as
appropriate outside the
corridor.
Upper Selway
Suitability Study
The visual resources
of the study areas
include the lands
within the 1/4- mile
corridor, as well as
some of the
adjoining lands that
are seen by users of
the study area.
These adjoining
seen areas become
important in the non-
wilderness study
area, because the
visual resource
could be affected by
other mgt activities.
Systematic
Approach to
Determine Eligibility
of Wild & Scenic
Rivers
Rare Scenic
Outstanding
Resource Value;
Views of landforms or
landscape, which is
highly unusual for the
region. Exemplary:
an especially good
example of a
landscape tvoical to
the region.
3.7.2. ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES
No developments or activities within the South Fork of the Clearwater River Corridor will alter
the potential classification of the river into the National Wild and Scenic Rivers system prior to a
suitability study.
No activities are proposed inside the river corridor.
ALTERNATIVE A (No ACTION)
None of the outstanding resource values associated with South Fork of the Clearwater River
would be affected under this alternative.
ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, AND E
Effects originating outside the corridor such as minor sediment caused turbidity associated with
road building or decommissioning and vegetative treatment (fire and timber harvest) may occur.
The effect of such events is minimal and predicting them is difficult. If such an event did
happen, impacts would occur primarily to the fisheries and visual resources but would be short-
lived.
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GEOLOGIC OUTSTANDING RESOURCE VALUE
Since no activities that could alter geologic features, such as road building, would occur within
the South Fork Clearwater corridor, this outstanding resource values would not be affected.
RECREATION OUTSTANDING RESOURCE VALUE
Forest Plan direction (Amendment 1) outlines recreation within eligible recreation rivers to be
managed for a semi-primitive motorized or roaded natural recreation opportunity spectrum
(ROS). Recreational activities outlined in the alternatives would consist of hardening and
stabilizing existing recreational sites. Such activities would not push the recreation opportunity
spectrum beyond roaded natural.
FISHERIES OUTSTANDING RESOURCE VALUE
Standards and regulation associated with listed species (salmon and steelhead) would ensure
this outstanding resource value as outlined in Forest Plan Amendment 1 would not be
compromised. For further discussion refer to Section 3.3 - Fisheries.
CULTURAL OUTSTANDING RESOURCE VALUE
There would be no adverse impacts to cultural resources within the corridor cultural resource
standards provided through existing state and federal laws would ensure necessary protection.
Refer to Section 3.9. - Heritage within this chapter.
SCENIC OUTSTANDING RESOURCE VALUE
There would be no impacts to scenic outstanding resource values within the South Fork
Clearwater River corridor.
3.7.3. SUMMARY
No activities are proposed within or adjacent to the 1/2-mile eligible river corridor. Therefore this
project will not pose any threats to outstanding resource values identified for South Fork of the
Clearwater River.
Visual quality objectives outside the corridor will also meet Forest Plan objectives ensuring
views of the landscape or landforms retain necessary attributes.
Implementation of activities within any of the alternatives will not alter the potential classification
of South Fork of the Clearwater River into the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System.
FOREST PLAN COMPLIANCE
The following Forestwide Standards for Wild, Scenic, and Recreation Rivers Resources., from
among those listed on page II- 28/29 of the Nez Perce National Forest Plan and Amendment
#1 page 2, apply to this project and will be met as follows:
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TABLE 3.85 - FOREST PLAN COMPLIANCE - WILD, SCENIC, AND RECREATION RIVERS RESOURCES
STANDARD
NUMBER
1
2
3
4
SUBJECT SUMMARY
Maintain or enhance the recreation, visual, wildlife,
fisheries, and water quality values of the existing and
proposed "Wild", "Scenic", and "Recreation" Rivers.
No management activities will be carried out that would
alter the potential classification of study waterways.
Impoundments are not permitted.
Generally, no management practices are scheduled in the
waterway corridors that are normally defined as the seen
area up to 1/4 mile either side of the channel.
New road construction and timber harvest are excluded in
"Wild" River corridors, and very limited in "Scenic" and
"Recreation" River corridors.
COMPLIANCE ACHIEVED BY
Analysis of alternatives indicates that no
changes to existing or proposed "Wild",
"Scenic", and "Recreation" Rivers will
occur.
Analysis of alternatives indicates that
management activities in the alternatives
will not alter potential classification of study
waterways.
Neither project is in any waterway corridor,
% mile either side of the channel.
Neither project is in any W&SR waterway
corridor.
The following Forest Plan Standards for Wild, Scenic, and Recreation Rivers Resources do not
apply within the context of this project.
TABLE 3.86 - FOREST PLAN STANDARDS FOR WILD, SCENIC, AND RECREATION RIVERS
RESOURCES THAT DO NOT APPLY
STANDARD
NUMBER
5
6
7
8
9
10
SUBJECT SUMMARY
Existing "Wild" and "Recreation" Rivers are closed to
mineral entry. Study rivers are subject to mineral
exploration. Mitigation and reclamation measures will be
included in any approved plans. Prior to mineral
development, a study shall be completed to determine
final classification or release.
Manage for recreation experiences in context with the
existing proposed designation. "Wild" - primitive or
semiprimitive nonmotorized. "Scenic" - semiprimitive
motorized or semiprimitive nonmotorized. "Recreation" -
semiprimitive motorized or roaded natural.
Encourage participation and cooperation of public and
private landholders in the study and implementation of
river classification on non-National Forest lands.
Cultural resource surveys for location and identification of
significant resources are encouraged.
In the eligible wild, scenic or recreational river corridors, a
no surface- occupancy stipulation will be required in
mineral leases.
In eligible and existing "wild," "scenic," and "recreational"
river corridors, new dams, diversions, or hydroelectric
power facilities will be prohibited to the extent of Forest
Service authority. Existing facilities may be maintained.
COMPLIANCE ACHIEVED BY
Standard does not apply to projects
Standard does not apply to projects
Standard does not apply to projects
See Section 3.9. - Heritage
Standard does not apply to projects
Standard does not apply to projects
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3.8. TRANSPORTATION
INTRODUCTION
SCOPE OF THE ANALYSIS
The focus of this analysis is the transportation system, which consists of both the road and trail
systems, within the American River and Crooked River analysis areas. Each analysis area is
addressed separately. The current state of the transportation system is presented, followed by
discussions of the changes resulting from the proposed action alternatives.
Two indicators, miles of road and miles of trails, are used to track the effects on the
transportation system resulting from the proposed action alternatives. The indicator miles of
road includes road decommissioning, with corresponding travel access changes, temporary
road construction and road reconditioning. Miles of trails includes both summer trails and
winter snowmobile trails.
REGULATORY FRAMEWORK
NATIONAL POLICY:
Federal regulations at 36 CFR, part 212, provide direction regarding administration of the forest
transportation system. These regulations require development of a transportation plan for each
forest. The plans provide for the construction, maintenance, and management of forest
transportation- facilities for the protection, administration, development, and multiple-use
management of federally owned lands and resources, served.
Forest Service Manual (FSM) 7710 (USDA FS, 2003e) establishes transportation system policy
related to disclosure and decision-making issues required by the National Environmental Policy
Act (NEPA). This policy includes requirements to perform an area transportation analysis, and
to document road management objectives that include design, operation, and maintenance
criteria.
Forest Service Handbook (FSH) 7709.55 (USDA FS, 1988b) defines transportation planning as
the interdisciplinary process of identifying access needed to effectively and efficiently meet
management objectives for a defined area. For project planning, transportation analysis is used
to identify and address needed changes in road management objectives.
The Federal "Road Management Policy" published in the Federal Register on January 12, 2001,
(insert citation) further defines agency policy regarding transportation systems. Terminology
changes announced in the policy reflect the agency's emphasis on maintaining environmentally
sound access. Additional elements of the policy direct agency officials to identify the minimum
transportation system needed to administer and protect National Forest System lands, and to
document this system through the use of road management objectives.
The Road Management Policy requires the use of a science-based analysis to identify the
needed transportation facilities.(insert citation) In an effort to preserve "flexibility to further
describe science-based transportation analysis in conjunction with other ecosystem analyses,
and to adjust the process in response to new scientific knowledge of road and resource
management interactions," a specific analysis process was not prescribed through the policy.
While the policy does not establish a specific process as the standard to be used, the agency
has produced a document entitled "Roads Analysis: Informing Decisions About Managing the
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National Forest Transportation System" (USDA FS, 1999e) that is to be used unless an
alternative is approved by the Deputy Chief of the Forest Service.
NEZ PERCE NATIONAL FOREST PLAN
The Nez Perce Forest Plan (USDA FS, 1987a) contains guidance related to access and travel
management. The primary transportation-related goal identified in the Forest Plan is to provide
a stable and cost-efficient transportation system through construction, reconstruction,
maintenance, or transportation system management. The Forest Plan also includes direction to
provide for standardized access prescriptions and to document travel management as part of
the decision making process.
The Record of Decision for the Forest Plan provides guidance related to access management
decision-making. It specifies that if we cannot justify leaving a new road open, it will be closed
or restricted. Forest Plan Amendment 2 provides further clarification by incorporating Appendix
Q, which identifies how motorized recreation and road access is to be managed, by
Management Area, and specifies that roads would be considered open, unless signed
otherwise.
Forest Plan Amendment 20 (PACFISH) contains additional requirements related to road system
management and recreation management. The amendment requires us to document road
management objectives, minimize sediment delivery from roads, reconstruct roads where
needed to protect aquatic resources, provide for adequate flow capacity at culvert crossings,
and provide for fish passage. We must also ensure that recreation facilities and their use does
not retard or prevent attainment of Riparian Management Objectives or adversely affect
anadromous fish.
ANALYSIS METHODS
The roads information used in the development of the action alternatives was obtained from the
Forest's Infrastructure database (INFRA) and from field survey data not previously stored in
INFRA. All of the roads proposed for decommissioning as part of this project were identified in
a roads analysis conducted as part of this project. The roads were determined to be not needed
for future management of National Forest system lands within the analysis areas. The road
data from INFRA is in the form of road management objectives and is presented in tabular form
in Appendix F. Issues raised both internally and during the public scoping period were
considered in the development of the alternatives. Spatial data is displayed using maps
generated with ArcGIS software.
3.8.1. AMERICAN RIVER
3.8.1.1. INDICATOR 1 - MILES OF ROAD
EXISTING CONDITION
To aid in describing the current state of the road system, road management objectives for each
road are presented in tabular form in Appendix F. Road management objectives describe the
design, maintenance, and operational characteristics of a road.
A few road management objectives that are of particular interest to most users are the access
prescription code and the objective maintenance level. Access prescription codes are used to
designate the extent to which access is allowed by various modes of travel. Current access
prescription codes, as well as code definitions, for the roads in the American River and Crooked
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River analysis areas are presented in Appendix F. In general, access restrictions on forest
roads are established for the purpose of protecting forest resources or wildlife habitat.
The objective maintenance level assigned to a particular road dictates the type and degree of
maintenance the road receives. This term also provides an indication of the relative ease with
which a road can be traveled with various types of vehicles. The maintenance levels range
between 1 and 5. Maintenance level 1 applies to roads that are closed to all vehicular traffic
and receive only a minimal degree of maintenance. On the other hand, roads with a
maintenance level 5 designation receive the highest degree of maintenance and provide the
user with the highest degree of travel comfort. Objective maintenance levels for the roads in the
American River and Crooked River analysis areas are presented in Appendix F. There are
approximately 66 miles of inventoried road in the American River portion of the analysis area.
All of these road miles are under the jurisdiction of the Forest Service. The following four tables
summarize the current state of the road system within American River analysis area in the form
of road management objectives. Refer to Appendix F for definitions of these road management
objectives.
TABLE 3.87 - CURRENT ACCESS PRESCRIPTIONS - AMERICAN RIVER ROADS
Access Prescription Code
Open
Y-2
Y-3
Y-4
B
Length of Road (Miles)
6.2
5.0
32.2
21.3
1.8
Percent of Total Road Miles
9.4
7.5
48.4
32.0
2.7
TABLE 3.88 - OBJECTIVE MAINTENANCE LEVELS - AMERICAN RIVER ROADS
Objective Maintenance Level
1
2
3
D
Length of Road (Miles)
57.4
1.0
6.1
1.8
Percent of Total Road Miles
86.4
1.6
9.2
2.7
TABLE 3.89 - TRAFFIC SERVICE LEVELS - AMERICAN RIVER ROADS
Traffic Service Levels
C
D
NA
Length of Road (Miles)
18.1
46.5
1.8
Percent of Total Road Miles
27.3
70.0
2.7
TABLE 3.90 - ROAD SURFACE TYPE - AMERICAN RIVER ROADS
Road Surface Type
Aggregate
Native Material
Length of Road (Miles)
28.8
37.6
Percent of Total Road Miles
43.4
56.6
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Regarding access prescription codes, of particular interest to many is highway vehicle access
on roads. For the American River analysis area, the Open access prescription code is the only
code that allows access with highway vehicles. Currently, 9.4 percent of the total miles of road
are open to highway vehicles. Access on the remaining length of road is restricted year-round
for the reasons stated previously in this section. Refer to map 12a for a display of roads in the
American River analysis area that are open either year-round or seasonally to highway vehicles.
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
ALTERNATIVE A-No ACTION ALTERNATIVE
With Alternative A, the road system, including the road management objectives, in the American
River analysis area would change little from its current state.
ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, AND E
ROAD DECOMMISSIONING
All roads proposed for decommissioning under these alternatives were analyzed in a roads
analysis that was completed as part of this project. The analysis identified the roads proposed
for decommissioning as not required for future management needs. These roads were selected
for decommissioning primarily because of the resulting benefit to watershed health by returning
the landscape to a more natural state. Refer to Appendix F for a list of the roads proposed for
decommissioning by alternative in the American River analysis area, and Appendix D for the
method of decommissioning recommended for each of these roads. Refer to maps 2a, 3a, 4a,
5a, and 6a for graphic displays of the roads proposed for decommissioning. A summary of the
costs associated with the proposed road decommissioning is presented in Section 3.12. - Socio-
Economic.
The physical process, or method, of decommissioning (referred to as decommissioning level in
Appendix D) depends on the condition of the road template, the magnitude of the side slope on
which the road is located, the proximity of the road to streams, and cost. This process can
range from simply abandoning the road to removing the road template completely, including
removal of drainage structures and recontouring the landscape. In general, the preferred
method is to remove the road template and recontour the landscape. This method is most
effective in removing the road as a source of sediment and restoring the natural- hydrologic
function of the watershed. It is, however, the most costly method. If the road is located on
relatively flat terrain, is not close to a stream, and is substantially overgrown with vegetation,
abandonment may be a better option.
In addition to the two decommissioning methods just discussed, there is a category used in
Appendix D to describe an intermediate level of decommissioning. This category, called Varied
(for varied treatments), can include removal of drainage structures, decompaction of the
roadbed, or a combination of both. If the roadbed is decompacted, seed and fertilizer would be
applied to reestablish vegetative cover. The Varied category can also include limited amounts
of abandonment or recontouring.
There is public concern regarding unauthorized incursions on decommissioned roads. For
roads that have been obliterated, the location where the road had previously existed is generally
well camouflaged through the obliteration process and is no longer recognizable as a road. As
a result, unauthorized incursions are less likely.
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There is generally not a significant concern with unauthorized incursions on roads that are
decommissioned through abandonment. As stated previously, abandonment is typically
selected in cases where a road is substantially grown over with vegetation. This condition
indicates a lack of past vehicular traffic. Where we might reasonably expect to experience
problems with unauthorized incursions, we would take steps to camouflage the entrances to the
road. Recontouring the road at an entrance and for a distance in from the entrance, or placing
natural barriers such as logs and branches are typical methods for camouflaging entrances to
roads.
Road management objectives for only the roads proposed for decommissioning in each of these
alternatives would change. The road management objective of primary interest to most road
users is the access prescription code, which would change a year-round restriction to use by all
modes of travel, except travel by foot. The following table summarizes the length of road
proposed for decommissioning, as well as the effect of the decommissioning on travel access,
for each alternative.
TABLE 3.91 - ROAD DECOMMISSIONING AND CORRESPONDING ACCESS CHANGE - AMERICAN RIVER ROADS
Item
Road Length Decommissioned (mi)
Road Open to Highway Vehicles (mi)
Decrease in Access with Highway
Vehicles (mi)
Alternative
B
4.9
6.2
0
Alternative
C
7.5
6.2
0
Alternative
D1
8.4
6.2
0
Alternative
E
19.5
6.2
0
For each alternative, there is no change in travel access with highway vehicles, because all of
the road miles proposed for decommissioning are currently closed to highway vehicles.
ROAD RECONDITIONING AND TEMPORARY ROAD CONSTRUCTION
Field surveys were conducted to determine the condition of the roads in the analysis area and
the maintenance needs required to prepare the roads for access to the treatment areas. These
maintenance needs were placed into three categories, depending on the level of work effort
required: minor reconstruction/maintenance, moderate reconstruction, and major
reconstruction. The primary difference between these categories is the amount of earthwork
involved.
Minor Reconstruction/Maintenance: This category requires the least level of work effort. It
involves grading and shaping of the roadway and minor drainage work (such as adding
waterbars and replacing or adding a few culverts, generally not on live streams).
Moderate Reconstruction: In addition to the activities considered under minor
reconstruction/maintenance, moderate reconstruction may involve the use of a bulldozer to
clear a heavily brushed-in roadway (the bulldozer would remove the earth to a greater depth
than simply grading the road surface), significant drainage work (including the replacement of
culverts at live water crossing), and some widening along the road (not continuous).
Miles of road listed for alternative D are associated with required projects only. With additional projects
added, the road miles are the same as alternative E.
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Major Reconstruction: In addition to the activities considered under the previous two
categories, major reconstruction may involve widening or realigning much of the length of a road
or substantial replacement of drainage structures. These activities typically result in new
cutslopes, fillslopes, or surfacing.
The roadwork proposed with the action alternatives would be done either to prepare a road for
timber hauling or to improve the environmental health of the watershed. There is some overlap,
however, in that some of the road work needed for timber hauling would also benefit watershed
health. The roadwork needed to prepare roads for timber hauling is the primary focus of this
section. Refer to Section 3.2. - Watershed for further discussion of the roadwork proposed for
the purpose of watershed health improvement and Appendix D for descriptions and locations of
this roadwork.
No permanent, new road construction is proposed with any of the action alternatives.
Temporary roads would be constructed where needed for access to treatment areas. All
temporary roads would be decommissioned no later than three years after initial construction.
Refer to Chapter 2 for additional information regarding measures for mitigating the effects of
temporary road construction. The following table summarizes the roadwork required for timber
hauling and the temporary road construction by alternative. Refer to Section 3.12. - Socio-
Economic for a summary of the costs associated with the proposed roadwork, including the
construction and subsequent decommissioning of temporary roads.
TABLE 3.92 - ROADWORK ACTIVITY BY ALTERNATIVE - AMERICAN RIVER ROADS
Activity
Minor Reconstruction/Maintenance (mi)
Moderate Reconstruction (mi)
Major Reconstruction (mi)
Temporary Road Construction (mi)
Alternative B
25.0
3.7
1.5
3.6
Alternative C
24.6
4.5
1.7
8.1
Alternative D
26.0
6.2
1.7
8.1
Alternative E
21.2
3.7
0.9
1.9
3.8.1.2. INDICATOR 2 - MILES OF TRAILS
EXISTING CONDITION
Historically, trails in the area were primarily developed for access to mining claims, private
lands, fire suppression activities and Forest Service administrative uses. Most trails were built
to accommodate pack and saddle stock, and were the primary access routes in the American
River drainage.
Currently, the majority of the trail system is utilized for recreational purposes. There are
approximately 32.5 miles of system trails within the American River portion of the project area.
The Boundary National Recreation Trail (NRT) is located on the north-east project area
boundary. This trail is built to ATV standards and both motorized and non-motorized users
enjoy the scenic area. Portions of the NRT were utilized as a fireline for the Slim's fire in 2003.
During the summer of 2004, work was completed to restore the trail to the design standard for
ATV use, including the installation of additional drainage structures. In the remainder of the
American River portion of the project area, system trails are primarily used by ATV(s),
motorbikes, hikers, and pack/saddle stock.
The following table displays the system trails in the American River project area, their length,
current management objective and restrictions:
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TABLE 3.93- SYSTEM TRAILS - AMERICAN RIVER
TRAIL
NUMBER
509
510
830
831
832
835
836
846
848
852
887
Trail Name
Otto
Flint Creek
Kirk's Fork
Flatiron
Ridge
East Fork
American
River
Boundary
Trail NRT
American
River
Lower
Kirk's Fork
Red Horse
Ridge
Lower East
Fork
American
River
Box Sing
TOTAL MILES
In project area
Trail Length
6.0 miles
(1 mile in project area)
5.5 miles
(all within project area)
6.0 miles
(1 .5 miles in project area)
2.5 miles
(all miles in project area)
7.7 miles
(.5 miles in project area)
(5.7 miles in project area)
(Total 6.2 miles in project
area)
9.5 miles
(7.0 miles in project area)
12.0 miles
(2 miles in project area)
3.0. miles
(all within project area)
3.0 miles
(2 miles in project area)
2.0 miles
(1/4 miles within project
area)
1.6 miles
(all within project area)
32.5
Current Management Objective/Restriction
Open to all motorized trail vehicles, closed to highway
vehicles. Managed for motorbike and snowmobile uses
Closed to all motorized vehicles, except snowmobiles over
snow. Managed for pack and saddle use
Closed to highway vehicles and ATV's. Open to trail bikes
and snowmobiles. Managed for pack and saddle and
motorbike use.
Open to all motorized trail vehicles, closed to highway
vehicles. Managed for pack and saddle and motorbike
use.
From junction with Trail 835 to junction with Trail 831,
open to all motorized trail vehicles, closed to highway
vehicles. Managed for ATV use.
From Trail 831 junction to Trail 510 junction, Closed to all
motorized uses. Managed for pack and saddle stock.
Open to all motorized trail vehicles, closed to highway
vehicles. Managed for ATV use.
Open to all motorized trail vehicles. Managed for pack
and saddle use:
Open to all motorized trail vehicles. Managed for ATV
use.
Open to all motorized trail vehicles. Managed for pack
and saddle use.
No restrictions. Managed for hiker use.
Open to all motorized trail vehicles. Managed for pack
and saddle and motorbike use
Depending on trail budgets, generally these trails receive trail opening and maintenance either
annually or every other year.
Of the 32.5 miles of trail within the American River project area, the following table displays the
number of miles open to different trail users:
TABLE 3.94 - MILES OF TRAILS OPEN TO TRAIL USERS - AMERICAN RIVER
Open to ATV
19.55 miles
Open to Motorcycles
21. 05 miles
Open to Foot and Horse
32.5 miles
Open to Snowmobiles
26.55 miles
There is an increasing demand from user groups for motorized trail opportunities. Motorized
uses are increasing in the area. Most of the existing trail system was designed for pack and
saddle stock or 2-wheeled motorized vehicles. Unauthorized ATV use is currently occurring on
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Trails 510 and 830. The increased use of 4-wheelers is widening these trails, which is causing
resource damage.
The winter trail system uses portions of the road system to provide a network of groomed
snowmobile trails. This system is groomed regularly between December and April under a
cooperative agreement between Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation, Idaho County and
the Nez Perce Forest. The American River project area portion of this groomed system is 7.2
miles (Road 443 - American River-Selway Falls), and connects with the Newsome Creek
drainage, other portions of the American River drainage, Clearwater, Kooskia, Red River and
Dixie communities, providing a network of groomed snowmobile trails.
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
ALTERNATIVE A- NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
The number of miles of trails available to the public would not change under this alternative.
However, the ability to use the trail system may be physically restricted without an increase in
user maintenance efforts due to limited Agency funding for trail maintenance
As dead and dying trees fall across the system trails, trail maintenance costs will likely increase
due to the increase in the number of trees down per mile. Even with annual maintenance
occurring, it will be likely the trail users will need to be prepared to cut trees in order to utilize the
trail system.
Wildlife occurrence would increase the cost of trail maintenance. Trail damage from fire
normally results in holes in the trail tread due to tree roots burning out; increase erosion due to
the lack of vegetation resulting in the need for more erosion control structures; and increase in
the number of down trees over the trail. Signs and erosion control devices will need to be
replaced due to fire damage.
ALTERNATIVES
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
SUMMER TRAIL SYSTEM
Existing trail-related activities and use within the analysis area would remain the same.
Under this alternative, seven harvest units lie across Trails 510, 830, 831, 832 and 848 and
seven units are close or adjacent to these same trails. One temporary road crosses Trail 510
and there are two temporary road crossings of Trail 848. These locations are summarized on
the following table:
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TABLE 3.95 - ALTERNATIVE B HARVEST UNITS AND TRAILS - AMERICAN RIVER
Number
830
831
832
848
Units Across Trail
156 & 169
130
505.1, 503.9 & 505.9
510
Units Adjacent or
Close to Trail
523
506 & 507
116, 117, 121 &122
Temporary Road Crossing of Trail
Road accessing Unit 156
Access to Unit 121 off Rd 9832 and Unit 113
access off Rd 9832A
Removal of the forest canopy through harvest activity will change the character of the trail as it
goes through the harvest units. The harvest activity will open up vistas from the trails in units
that are across or adjacent to the trails. Trail mitigation measures incorporated into the project
design will minimize impacts to the trails.
During harvest activity along trails, alternative trail access can be provided as follows:
• Trail 831 - Trail 830 can provide alternate access except for ATV use.
• Trail 510 - Road 9812 from the junction with Road 443 to the SW % of section 26 would
provide an alternate temporary trailhead to avoid the section of Trail 510 with harvest
units.
• Trail 830 - Road 1810 to the SW % of Section 8 would provide a temporary trailhead to
avoid the section of Trail 830 with harvest units.
• Trails 832 and 848 - No apparent alternative routes are available during harvest
activities.
• Trails 509, 835, 836, 846, 852 and 887 are not affected by any harvest activity.
Under the Restoration Package (Appendix D) for this alternative
• Trail 848 would be evaluated for potential improvement needs. The trail was designed
for pack and saddle stock use and current uses include ATV's.
• Trails 887 and 830 crossings of Box Sing Creek would be reconstructed to reduce
sediment. The current access prescription for Trail 887 would be changed to restrict
ATV use. The trail tread is 18" wide and does not accommodate ATV use, but is open to
ATV's. This would reduce the number of miles of trail open to ATV from 19.55 to 17.95
miles.
SNOWMOBILE TRAIL SYSTEM
Nine harvest units lie adjacent to Road 443, a groomed snowmobile route. These are Units
151, 151.3, 151.2, 154, 530, 534, 536, 537 and 163. Some of these units will contribute to
future play-areas for snowmobiles until such time as regeneration is re-established.
Due to the position of Unit 536 on the slope and its relation to the groomed route, there is an
increased risk of drifting snow accumulating on the groomed route in this location. This could
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result in the need for the placement or construction of a snow drift fence to reduce the
accumulation of snow on the trail.
During harvest activity, if winter hauling occurs on Road 443, it would need to be restricted for
snowmobiling during timber sale activities. This would result in a short-term reduction in the
number of miles of snowmobile trail available for use (7.2 miles). The American River-Selway
River Divide portion of the groomed system could be accessed for snowmobile use via the
Erickson Ridge/Table Meadows Road 283, and Elk Summit Road 1199.
Under work proposed with the restoration package, it is recommended the access prescription
for Trail 887 be changed from open to A TV use to closed to ATV use. The trail has an 18-
inch tread allowance, which does not accommodate ATVs. ATV use has not been established
on the trail. The trail would remain open for foot, stock, and motorcycle use. Closing Trail 887
to ATV use would not restrict existing use, but would reflect a reduction (under this alternative)
in the number of miles of trail open to ATVs by 1.6 miles, as displayed in Table 3.99.
ALTERNATIVE C
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
SUMMER TRAIL SYSTEM
Under this alternative, twelve harvest units lie across Trails 510, 830, 831, 832 and 848 and
nine units are close or adjacent to these same trails. A temporary road crosses Trail 510 and
Trail 832 once, a temporary road is adjacent to Trail 830, and Trail 848 is crossed by temporary
roads twice. These locations are summarized on the'following table:
TABLE 3.96 - ALTERNATIVE C HARVEST UNITS AND TRAILS - AMERICAN RIVER
Trail
Number
510
830
831
832
848
Units Across
Trail
156 & 169
130
503, 503.9 &
505.1,510
509,510,
510.9, 512 &
513
112
Units Adjacent or
Close to Trail
128 & 129
505, 506 & 507
506 & 507
116, 117, 121 &
122
Temporary Road Crossing of Trail
Road accessing Unit 156
At corner of Units 130 and 129
Accessing Units 509, 510.9, 512 & 513 one
crossing
Access to Unit 113 from junction with Rd
9832A and Access to Unit 121 & 122 off Rd
9832
The harvest activity will change the character of trails going through the units as the canopy is
removed. The harvest activity will open up vistas from the trails where units are across or
adjacent to the trails. Trail mitigation measures incorporated into the project design will
minimize impacts to the trails.
During harvest activity along trails, alternative trail access can be provided as follows:
• Trail 831 - Trail 830 can provide alternate access except for ATV use.
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• Trail 510 - Road 9812 from the junction with Road 443 to the SW % of section 26 would
provide an alternate temporary trailhead to avoid the section of Trail 510 with harvest
units.
• Trail 830 - Road 1810 to the SW 1/4 of Section 8 would provide a temporary trailhead to
avoid the section of Trail 830 with harvest units.
• Trails 832 and 848 - No apparent alternative routes are available during harvest
activities.
• Trails 509, 835, 836, 846, 852 and 887 are not affected by any harvest activity
Under the Restoration Package (Appendix D) for this alternative:
• Trail 848 would be evaluated for potential improvement needs. The trail was designed
for pack and saddle stock use and current uses include ATV's.
• Trails 887 and 830 crossings of Box Sing Creek would be reconstructed to reduce
sediment. The current access prescription for Trail 887 would be changed to restrict
ATV use. The trail tread is 18" wide and does not accommodate ATV use, but is open to
ATV's. This would reduce the number of miles of trail open to ATV from 19.55 to 17.95
miles
SNOWMOBILE TRAIL SYSTEM
Five harvest units lie adjacent to Road 443 groomed snowmobile route. These are Units 151,
151.2, 151.3, 154 and 163. Some of these units will contribute to future play-areas for
snowmobiles until such time as regeneration is re-established.
During harvest activity, if winter hauling occurs on Road 443, it would need to be restricted for
snowmobiling during timber sale activities. This would result in a short-term reduction in the
number of miles of snowmobile trail available for use (7.2 miles). The American River-Selway
River divide portion of the groomed system could be accessed for snowmobile use via the
Erickson Ridge/Table Meadows Road 283, and Elk Summit Road 1199.
Under work proposed with the restoration package, it is recommended the access prescription
for Trail 887 be changed from open to ATV use to closed to ATV use. The trail has an 18-
inch tread allowance, which does not accommodate ATV's. ATV use has not been established
on the trail. The trail would remain open for foot, stock, and motorcycle uses. Closing Trail 887
to ATV use would not restrict existing use, but would reflect a reduction (under this alternative)
in the number of miles of trail open to ATVs by 1.6 miles, as displayed in Table 3..99.
ALTERNATIVE D
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
SUMMER TRAIL SYSTEM
Under this alternative, 15 harvest units lie across Trails 510, 830, 831, 832 and 848 and ten
units are close or adjacent to these same trails. There a temporary road crossing once each of
Trail 510 and Trail 832, a temporary road is adjacent to Trail 830, and Trail 848 is crossed by
temporary roads twice. These locations are summarized on the following table:
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TABLE 3.97 - ALTERNATIVE D, HARVEST UNITS AND TRAILS - AMERICAN RIVER
Trail
Number
510
830
831
832
848
Units Across Trail
156 & 169
130
501,503,503.9,
504505.1 &510
509,510,510.9,
512&513
112
Units Adjacent or
Close to Trail
523
128 & 129
505, 506 & 507
506 & 507
116, 117, 121 & 122
Temporary Road Crossing of Trail
Road accessing Unit 156
Adjacent to trail at corner of Units 130
and 129
Accessing Units 509, 510.9, 512 & 513
one crossing
Access to Unit 1 13 from junction with
Rd 9832A and Access to Unit 121 &
122 off Rd 9832
The harvest activity will change the character of the trail as it goes through the harvest units as
the canopy is removed. The harvest activity will open up vistas from the trails where units are
across or adjacent to the trails. Trail mitigation measures incorporated into the project design
will minimize impacts to the trails.
During harvest activity along trails, alternative trail access can be provided as follows:
• Trail 831 - Trail 830 can provide alternate access except for ATV use.
• Trail 510 - Road 9812 from the junction with Road 443 to the SW % of section 26 would
provide an alternate temporary trailhead to avoid the section of Trail 510 with harvest
units.
• Trail 830 - Road 1810 to the SW % of Section 8 would provide a temporary trailhead to
avoid the section of Trail 830 with harvest units.
• Trails 832 and 848 - No apparent alternative routes are available during harvest
activities.
• Trails 509, 835, 836, 846, 852 and 887 are not affected by any harvest activity
Under the Restoration Package (Appendix D) for this alternative:
• Trail 848 would be evaluated for potential improvement needs. The trail was designed
for pack and saddle stock use and current uses include ATV's.
• Trails 887 and 830 crossings of Box Sing Creek would be reconstructed to reduce
sediment. The current access prescription for Trail 887 would be changed to restrict
ATV use. The trail tread is 18" wide and does not accommodate ATV use, but is open to
ATV's. This would reduce the number of miles of trail open to ATV from 19.55 to 17.95
miles (1.6 miles less).
SNOWMOBILE TRAIL SYSTEM
Ten harvest units lie adjacent to Road 443 groomed snowmobile route. These are Units 151,
151.2, 151.3, 154, 163, 530, 531, 534, 536 and 537. Some of these units will contribute to
future play-areas for snowmobiles until such time as regeneration is re-established.
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During harvest activity, if winter hauling occurs on Road 443, it would need to be restricted for
snowmobiling during timber sale activities. This would result in a short-term reduction in the
number of miles of snowmobile trail available for use (7.2 miles). The American River-Selway
River divide portion of the groomed system could be accessed for snowmobile use via the
Erickson Ridge/Table Meadows Road 283, and Elk Summit Road 1199.
Due to the position of Unit 536 on the slope and its relation to the groomed route, there is an
increased risk of drifting snow accumulating on the groomed route in this location. This could
result in the need for the placement or construction of a snow drift fence to reduce the
accumulation of snow on the trail.
Under work proposed with the restoration package, it is recommended the access prescription
for Trail 887 be changed from open to A TV use to closed to ATV use. The trail has an 18-
inch tread allowance, which does not accommodate ATV's. ATV use has not been established
on the trail. The trail would remain open for foot, stock, and motorcycle uses. Closing Trail 887
to ATV use would not restrict existing use, but would reflect a reduction (under this alternative)
in the number of miles of trail open to ATVs by 1.6 miles, as displayed in Table 3.99.
ALTERNATIVE E
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
SUMMER TRAIL SYSTEM
Under this alternative, two harvest units lie across Trails 510 and five units are close or adjacent
to these same trails. There is one temporary road crossing Trail 510. These locations are
summarized on the following table:
TABLE 3.98 - ALTERNATIVE E, HARVEST UNITS AND TRAILS - AMERICAN RIVER
Trail
Number
510
831
832
848
Units Across Trail
156 & 169
Units Adjacent or
Close to Trail
523
505,506, & 507
506 & 507
115
Temporary Road Crossing of Trail
Road accessing Unit 156
The harvest activity will change the character of the trail as it goes through the harvest units as
the canopy is removed. The harvest activity will open up vistas from the trails where units are
across or adjacent to the trails. Trail mitigation measures incorporated into the project design
will minimize impacts to the trails.
During harvest activity along trails, alternative trail access can be provided as follows:
• Trail 831 - Trail 830 can provide alternate access except for ATV use.
• Trail 510 - Road 9812 from the junction with Road 443 to the SW % of section 26 would
provide an alternate temporary trailhead to avoid the section of Trail 510 with harvest
units.
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• Trail 830 - Road 1810 to the SW % of Section 8 would provide a temporary trailhead to
avoid the section of Trail 830 with harvest units.
• Trails 832 and 848 - No apparent alternative routes are available during harvest
activities.
• Trails 509, 830, 835, 836, 846, 852 and 887 are not directly affected by any harvest
activity.
Under the Restoration Package (Appendix D) for this alternative:
• Trail 848 would be evaluated for potential improvement needs. The trail was designed
for pack and saddle stock use and current uses
• .Trails 887 and 830 crossings of Box Sing Creek would be reconstructed to reduce
sediment. The current access prescription for Trail 887 would be changed to restrict
ATV use. The trail tread is 18" wide and does not accommodate ATV use, but is open to
ATV's. This would reduce the number of miles of trail open to ATV from 19.55 to 17.95
miles
• Trail 510 would receive trail tread improvement to the first 0.8 miles to decrease surface
erosion and sedimentation. Barriers would also be installed at the trailhead and at the
junction with Road 9812 to limit ATV access to this trail, which is closed to all motorized
trail vehicles except snowmobiles over snow.
SNOWMOBILE TRAIL SYSTEM
Eight harvest units lie adjacent to Road 443 groomed snowmobile route. These are Units 151,
151.2, 151.3, 154, 530, 534, 536 and 537. Some of these units will contribute to future play-
areas for snowmobiles until such time as regeneration is re-established.
During harvest activity, if winter hauling occurs on Road 443, it would need to be restricted for
snowmobiling during timber sale activities. This would result in a short-term reduction in the
number of miles of snowmobile trail available for use (7.2 miles). The American River-Selway
River divide portion of the groomed system could be accessed for snowmobile use via the
Erickson Ridge/Table Meadows Road 283, and Elk Summit Road 1199.
Due to the position of Unit 536 on the slope and its relation to the groomed route, there is an
increased risk of drifting snow accumulating on the groomed route in this location. This could
result in the need for the placement or construction of a snow drift fence to reduce the
accumulation of snow on the trail.
Under work proposed with the restoration package, it is recommended the access prescription
for Trail 887 be changed from open to ATV use to closed to ATV use. The trail has an 18-
inch tread allowance, which does not accommodate ATV's. ATV use has not been established
on the trail. The trail would remain open for foot, stock, and motorcycle uses. Closing Trail 887
to ATV use would not restrict existing use, but would reflect a reduction (under this alternative)
in the number of miles of trail open to ATVs by 1.6 miles, as displayed in Table 3.99.
The geographic boundary for cumulative effects is the same as for the American/Crooked River
Project area.
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There are no expected cumulative effects for Alternative A or the action alternatives for trail
opportunities beyond effects described under direct/indirect effects.
COMMON To ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES
TABLE 3.99 - ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, AND E - CHANGE IN ACCESS PRESCRIPTION FOR TRAIL 887
Alternative
Existing
Condition -
Alternative A
Alternatives
B, C, D, and E
Open to
ATV (mi)
19.55
17.95
Open to
Motorcycles
(mi)
21.05
21.05
Open to
Foot and
Horse (mi)
32.5
32.5
Open to
Snowmobiles
(mi)
26.55
26.55
Groomed Snowmobile
System (mi)
7.2
If winter hauling occurs on
Road 443, these miles will not
be available during activity
3.8.2. CROOKED RIVER
3.8.2.1. INDICATOR 1 - MILES OF ROAD
EXISTING CONDITION
To aid in describing the current state of the road system, road management objectives for each
road are presented in tabular form in Appendix F. Road management objectives describe the
design, maintenance, and operational characteristics of a road. Refer to the American River
section for further discussion of road management objectives.
There are approximately 120 miles of inventoried road in the Crooked River analysis area. The
following five tables summarize the current state of the road system within this analysis area in
the form of road management objectives. Refer to Appendix F for definitions of these road
management objectives.
TABLE 3.100 - CURRENT ACCESS PRESCRIPTIONS - CROOKED RIVER ROADS
Access Prescription Code
Open
C2-A
Y-2
Y-3
Y-4
Length of Road (Miles)
38.1
0.6
14.3
64.4
3.3
Percent of Total Road Miles |
31.6
0.5
11.8
53.4
2.7
TABLE 3.101 - OBJECTIVE MAINTENANCE LEVELS - CROOKED RIVER ROADS
Objective Maintenance Level
1
2
3
D
Length of Road (Miles)
78.9
17.3
23.4
1.1
Percent of Total Road Miles
65.3
14.4
19.4
0.9
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TABLE 3.102 - TRAFFIC SERVICE LEVELS - CROOKED RIVER ROADS
Traffic Service Levels
C
D
NA
Length of Road (Miles)
23.2
96.4
1.1
Percent of Total Road Miles
19.2
79.9
0.9
TABLE 3.103 - ROAD JURISDICTION - CROOKED RIVER ROADS
Jurisdiction
Forest Service
County
Private
Length of Road (miles)
108.4
12.1
0.2
Percent of Total Road Miles
89.8
10.0
0.2
TABLE 3.104 - ROAD SURFACE TYPE - CROOKED RIVER ROADS:
Surface type
Aggregate
Native Material
Length of Road (miles)
68.4
52.3
Percent of Total Road Miles
56.7
43.3
Regarding access prescription codes, of particular interest to many is highway vehicle access
on roads. The Open and C2-A access prescription codes are combined to determine allowable
access with highway vehicles for the Crooked River analysis area. Currently, 32.2 percent of
the total road miles are open to highway vehicles. Access on the remaining length of road is
restricted year-round for the reasons stated previously in the subsection entitled EXISTING
CONDITION in Section 3.8.1.1 for American River. Refer to map 12b for a display of roads in the
Crooked River analysis area that are open either year-round or seasonally to highway vehicles.
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
ALTERNA TIVE A-NO A CTION ALTERNA TIVE
With Alternative A, the road system, including the road management objectives, in the Crooked
River analysis area would change little from its current state.
ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, and E
ROAD DECOMMISSIONING
All roads proposed for decommissioning under these alternatives were analyzed in a roads
analysis that was completed as part of this project. The analysis identified the roads proposed
for decommissioning that were determined to be not required for future management needs.
These roads were selected for decommissioning primarily because of the resulting benefit to
watershed health by returning the landscape to near its natural state. Refer to the American
River section for a discussion of decommissioning methods, as well as unauthorized incursions
on decommissioned roads. Refer to Appendix F for a list of the roads proposed for
decommissioning by alternative in the Crooked River analysis area, and Appendix D for the
method of decommissioning recommended for each of these roads. See maps 2b, 3b, 4b, 5b,
and 6b for graphical displays of the roads proposed for decommissioning. A summary of the
costs associated with the proposed road decommissioning is presented in Section 3.12 (Socio-
Economic).
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Road management objectives for the roads proposed for decommissioning in each of the
alternatives would change. The road management objective of primary interest to most road
users is the access prescription, which would change to a year-round restriction for all modes of
travel, except travel by foot. The only exception is Road 9836. The last 1.46 miles (nearest
Crooked River) of this road are proposed for decommissioning in Alternatives B, C, D, and E.
This section of road, however, would not be closed completely or removed from the landscape;
it would be converted to a trail, allowing access with trail vehicles and snowmobiles. The
following table summarizes the length of road proposed for decommissioning for each
alternative, as well as the effect of the decommissioning on travel access.
TABLE 3.105 - ROAD DECOMMISSIONING AND CORRESPONDING ACCESS CHANGE
CROOKED RIVER ROADS
Item
Road Length Decommissioned (mi)
Road Open to Highway Vehicles (mi)
Decrease in Access with Highway
Vehicles (mi)
% Decrease in Access with Highway
Vehicles
Alternative
B
9.0
37.1
1.6
4.0
ALTERNATIVE
C
9.8
37.1
1.6
4.0
Alternative
D
10.5
37.1
1.6
4.0
Alternative
E
17.5
37.1
1.6
4.0
Miles of road listed for alternative D are associated with required concurrent projects only. With
additional projects added, the road miles are the same as alternative E.
For each alternative, there is little change in travel access with highway vehicles, because most
of the road miles proposed for decommissioning are currently closed to access vehicles.
ROAD RECONDITIONING AND TEMPORARY ROAD CONSTRUCTION
The roadwork proposed with the action alternatives would be done either to prepare a road for
timber hauling or to improve the environmental health of the watershed. There is some overlap,
however, in that some of the roadwork needed for timber hauling would also benefit watershed
health. The roadwork needed to prepare roads for timber hauling is the primary focus of this
section. Refer to the American River section for a description of the roadwork categories. Refer
to Section 3.2. (Watershed) for further discussion of the roadwork proposed for the purpose of
watershed health improvement and Appendix D for descriptions and locations of the roadwork.
No permanent, new road construction is proposed with any of the action alternatives.
Temporary roads would be constructed where needed for access to treatment areas. All
temporary roads would be decommissioned no later than three years after initial construction.
Refer to Chapter 2 for additional information regarding measures for mitigating the effects of
temporary road construction. The following table summarizes, by alternative, the roadwork
required for timber hauling and temporary road construction. Refer to Section 3.12 (Socio-
Economic), for a summary of the costs associated with the proposed roadwork, including the
construction and subsequent decommissioning of temporary roads.
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TABLE 3.106 - ROADWORK ACTIVITY BY ALTERNATIVE - CROOKED RIVER ROADS
Activity
Minor Reconstruction/Maintenance (mi)
Moderate Reconstruction (mi)
Major Reconstruction (mi)
Temporary Road Construction (mi)
Alternative B
41.6
5.1
2.5
4.4
Alternative C
39.9
8.3
1.3
6.2
Alternative D
44.3
8.8
3.5
6.2
Alternative E
40.9
5.1
2.5
3.5
3.8.2.2. INDICATOR2 -TRAILS
EXISTING CONDITION
SUMMER TRAIL SYSTEM
Similar to the American River area, historically trails in the area were primarily developed for
access to mining claims, private lands, fire suppression activities, and Forest Service
administrative uses. Most trails were built to accommodate pack and saddle stock and were the
primary access routes in the Crooked River drainage.
Currently, the majority of the trail system is utilized for recreation purposes. There are
approximately 15.1 miles of system trails within the Crooked River project area. The Idaho
Centennial Trail utilizes Trails 821, 820, and portions of 508. The Idaho Centennial Trail is a
1,200 mile north/south trail crossing Idaho, designated in 1990 during Idaho's centennial
celebration of statehood.
The following table displays the system trails in the Crooked River project area, their length,
current management objective and restrictions:
TABLE 3.107 - SYSTEM TRAILS - CROOKED RIVER
TRAIL
NUMBER
207
5081
805
817
820*
821*
844
Trail
Name
Moose
Butte
Porter's
Miner's
Ditch
Center
Star
Mountain
Porter
Spur
Silver
Creek
Relief
Creek
Trail Length
10.0 miles
(1 miles on project area boundary)
8.0 miles
(4 miles on project area boundary)
13 miles
(2.5 miles within project area)
6.0 miles
(1 mile on project area boundary)
1.0 mile
(all miles in project area)
4.1 miles
(all within project area)
1.5 miles
(all miles in project area)
Current Management Objective/Restriction
Open to all motorized trail vehicles, closed to highway
vehicles. Managed for pack and saddle stock.
Open to motorbikes and snowmobiles over snow.
Managed for pack and saddle uses.
Closed to all motorized vehicles. Managed for hiker uses.
Open to motorbikes and snowmobiles over snow. Closed
to highway vehicles and ATVs. Managed for pack and
saddle stock.
Open to all trail uses. Managed for pack and saddle uses.
Open to all motorized uses. Managed for ATVs and
snowmobiles. Part of the groomed snowmobile system.
Trail 821 shares the template with Road 9836.
Open to motorbikes and snowmobiles over snow. Closed
to highway vehicles and ATVs. Managed for pack and
saddle stock and trail bikes.
Segment of Idaho Centennial Trail
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Trail
Name
TOTAL MILES
In project area
Trail Length
15.1
Current Management Objective/Restriction
Of the 15.1 miles of trail within the Crooked River project area, the following table displays the
number of miles open to different trail users:
TABLE 3.108 - MILES OF TRAILS OPEN TO TRAIL USERS - CROOKED RIVER
Open to ATV
6.1 miles
Open to Motorcycles
12.6 miles
Open to Foot and Horse
15.1 miles
Open to Snowmobile!
12.6 miles
WINTER TRAIL SYSTEM
The winter trail system uses portions of the road system to provide a network of groomed
snowmobile trails. This system is groomed annually between December and April under a
cooperative agreement between Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation, Idaho County and
1 *!Z ^rc:!.Forest The Crooked R'ver project area portion of this groomed system connects
with the Elk City, Clearwater, Kooskia, Red River, and Dixie communities, providing a network
of groomed snowmobile trails.
TABLE 3.109 - GROOMED SNOWMOBILE TRAIL SYSTEM - CROOKED RIVER
ROAD NUMBER
233
311
1803
9836
ROAD NAME
Crooked River
Orogrande-Dixie
Relief Creek
Sawmill Creek
Total Miles in project area
LENGTH GROOMED
2 miles in project area
0.1 mile in project area
7.7 miles
4.4 miles
14.2 miles
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
ALTERNATIVE A - NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
The number of miles of trails available to the public would not change under this alternative
However, the ability to use the trail system may be physically restricted without an increase in
user maintenance efforts due to limited Agency funding for trail maintenance
Under this alternative, as dead and dying trees fall across the system trails, trail maintenance
costs will likely increase due to the increase in the number of trees down per mile Even with
annual maintenance occurring, it will be likely the trail users will need to be prepared to cut trees
out in order to utilize the trail system.
Wildfire occurrence would increase the cost of trail maintenance. Trail damage from fire
normally results in holes in the trail tread due to tree roots burning out; increase erosion due to
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the lack of vegetation resulting in the need for more erosion control structures; increase in the
number of down trees over the trail; signs and erosion control devices will need to be replaced
due to fire damage.
The number of miles available to the public would not change under this alternative. However,
the ability to use the trail system may be physically restricted without an increase in user
maintenance efforts due to limited Agency funding for trail maintenance.
ALTERNATIVE B
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
SUMMER TRAIL SYSTEM
Under this alternative, two harvest units lie across Trails 820 and one unit is adjacent to Trial
844 at the trail junction with Road 1803. There are not any temporary road crossing of trails in
the Crooked River Project area. These locations are summarized on the following table.
TABLE 3.110 - ALTERNATIVE B HARVEST UNITS AND TRAILS - CROOKED RIVER
Trail Number
820
844
Units Across
Trail
47 and 48
Units Adjacent or
Close to Trail
53
Harvest activity will change the character of the trails in the units as the canopy is removed.
The harvest activity will open up vistas from Trail 820. Trail mitigation measures incorporated
into the project design will minimize impacts to the trails.
During harvest activity along trail 820, alternative access would be a combination of Trail 844
and Road 1809.
Trails 207, 508, 805, 817, and 821 will not be affected by any harvest activity.
• Trail 820 connects with Trail 508. Trail 508 is open to motorcycles and snowmobiles
over snow, closed to ATVS. Currently, Trail 820 is open to all motorized trail vehicles.
Condition surveys conducted on this trail in 2002 show a 12 to 18 inch tread width, which
indicates ATV use is not established on this trail.
The proposed action includes implementation of access restrictions on Trail 820 to be
consistent with Trail 508. A new access prescription for Trail 820 will open the trail to
motorcycles and snowmobiles over snow and close the trail to ATVs.
Under the restoration package (Appendix D) for this alternative:
• Approximately 1.5 miles of Road 9836 will be converted from a road to a motorized trail.
The project will install erosion control structures to reduce the rutting and erosion
occurring on this road. The road/trail prism width will not change as the route is a
portion of the groomed snowmobile system and the current road width is needed for the
snowmobile grooming equipment. Once converted to a trail, this 1.5 mile section will be
closed to highway vehicles.
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SNOWMOBILE TRAIL SYSTEM
Seven harvest units lie adjacent to the groomed snowmobile route along Road 1803 These
units are 47, 48, 50.1, 51, 52, 53, and 58. Some of these units will contribute to future play
areas for snowmobile until such time as regeneration is reestablished.
If Road 1803 is used as a haul route in winter, the Crooked River/Orogrande area will be
isolated from the Elk City portion of the groomed system. Alternative routes are not available
Recommended mitigation if winter hauling occurs:
• No hauling will occur on weekends between December 1 and March 30 on Roads 1803
and 9836 to allow for snowmobile traffic.
ALTERNATIVE C
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
SUMMER TRAIL SYSTEM
Under this alternative, two harvest units lie across Trail 820 and one unit is adjacent to Trail 844
at the trail junction with Road 1803. There are not any temporary road crossing of trails in the
Crooked River Project area. These locations are summarized on the following table:
TABLE 3.111-ALTERNATIVE C HARVEST UNITS AND TRAILS - CROOKED RIVER
Trail Number
820
844
Units Across Trail
47 and 48
Units Adjacent or Close
to Trail
53
Harvest activity will change the character of the trails in the units as the canopy is removed
The harvest activity will open up vistas along Trail 820. Trail mitigation measures incorporated
into the project design will minimize impacts to the trails.
During harvest activity along Trail 820, alternative access would be a combination of Trail 844
and Road 1803.
Trails 207, 508, 805, 817, and 821 will not be affected by any harvest activity.
• Trail 820 connects with Trail 508. Trail 508 is open to motorcycles and snowmobiles
over snow, closed to ATVS. Currently, Trail 820 is open to all motorized trail vehicles
Condition surveys conducted on this trail in 2002 show a 12 to 18 inch tread width, which
indicates ATV use is not established on this trail.
The proposed action includes implementation of access restrictions on Trail 820 to be
consistent with Trail 508. A new access prescription for Trail 820 will open the trail to
motorcycles and snowmobiles over snow and close the trail to ATVs.
Under the Restoration Package (Appendix D) for this alternative
• Approximately 1.5 miles of Road 9836 will be converted from a road to a motorized trail.
The project will install erosion control structures to reduce the rutting and erosion
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American River/Crooked River-Final Environmental Impact Statement
occurring on this road. The road/trail prism width will not change as the route is a
portion of the groomed snowmobile system and the current road width is needed for the
snowmobile grooming equipment. Once converted to a trail, this 1.5 miles will be closed
to highway vehicles.
SNOWMOBILE TRAIL SYSTEM
Seven harvest units lie adjacent to the groomed snowmobile route along Road 1803. These
units are 47, 48, 50.1, 51, 52, 53, and 58. Some of these units will contribute to future play-
areas for snowmobiles until such time as regeneration is reestablished.
If Route 1803 is used as a haul route in winter, the Crooked River/Orogrande area will be
isolated from the Elk City portion of the groomed system. Alternative routes are not available.
Recommended mitigation if winter hauling occurs.
• No hauling will occur on weekends between December 1 and March 30 on Roads 1803
and 9836 to allow for snowmobile traffic.
ALTERNATIVE D
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
SUMMER TRAIL SYSTEM
Under this alternative, three harvest units lie across Trail 820, seven units are adjacent to Trail
821 and one unit is adjacent to Trail 844 at the trail junction with Road 1803. There are no
temporary road crossings of trails in the Crooked River Project area. These locations are
summarized on the following table:
TABLE 3.112 -ALTERNATIVE D, HARVEST UNITS AND TRAILS - CROOKED RIVER
Trail Number
820
821
844
Units Across Trail
47, 48, 49
Units Adjacent or Close
to Trail
43,44,45,46,313,
313.1, and 341
53
Harvest activity will change the character of the trails in the units as the canopy is removed.
The harvest activity will open up vistas from Trails 820 and 821. Trail mitigation measures
incorporated into the project design will minimize impacts to the trails.
During harvest activity along Trail 820, alternative access would be a combination of Trial 844
and road 1803. Alternative access for Trail 821 would be Relief Creek Road 522 to Road 1803.
Trails 207, 508, 805, and 817 will not be affected by any harvest activity.
• Trail 820 connects with Trail 508. Trail 508 is open to motorcycles and snowmobiles
over snow, closed to ATVS. Currently, Trail 820 is open to all motorized trail vehicles.
Condition surveys conducted on this trail in 2002 show a 12 to 18 inch tread width, which
indicates ATV use is not established on this trail.
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The proposed action includes implementation of access restrictions on Trail 820 to be
consistent with Trail 508. A new access prescription for Trail 820 will open the trail to
motorcycles and snowmobiles over snow and close the trail to ATVs.
Under the restoration package (Appendix D) for this alternative:
• Approximately 1.5 miles of Road 9836 will be converted from a road to a motorized trail
The project will install erosion control structures to reduce the rutting and erosion
occurring on this road. The road/trail prism width will not change as the route is a
portion of the groomed snowmobile system and the current road width is needed for the
snowmobile grooming equipment. Once converted to a trail, this 1.5 miles will be closed
to highway vehicles.
SNOWMOBILE TRAIL SYSTEM
Sixteen harvest units lie adjacent to the groomed snowmobile route along Roads 9836 and
1803. These units are 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50.1, 51, 52, 53, 58, 313, 313.1, 319, and 341
Some of these units will contribute to future play areas for snowmobiles until such time as
regeneration is reestablished.
Due to the position of units 43 and 317 on the slope and their relation to the groomed route,
there is an increased risk of drifting snow accumulating on the groomed route in these two
locations. This could result in the need for the placement or construction of snow drift fences to
reduce the accumulation of snow on the trail.
If Road 1803 is used as a haul route in winter, the Crooked River/Orogrande area will be
isolated from the Elk City portion of a groomed system. Alternative routes are not available.
Recommended mitigation if winter hauling occurs:
• No hauling will occur on weekends between December 1 and March 30 on Roads 1803
and 9836 to allow for snowmobile traffic.
ALTERNATIVE E
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
SUMMER TRAIL SYSTEM
Under this alternative, one harvest unit lies across Trail 820 and one unit is adjacent to Trail 844
at the trail junction with Road 1803. There are no temporary road crossings of trails in the
Crooked River Project area. These locations are summarized on the following table:
TABLE 3.113 - ALTERNATIVE E, HARVEST UNITS AND TRAILS - CROOKED RIVER
Trail Number
820
844
Units Across Trail
47
Units Adjacent or Close
to Trail
53
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Harvest activity will change the character of the trails in the units as the canopy is removed.
The harvest activity will open up a small vista along Trail 820. Trail mitigation measures
incorporated into the project design will minimize impacts to the trails.
During harvest activity along Trail 820, alternative access would be a combination of Trail 844
and Road 1803.
Trails 207, 508, 805, 817, and 821 will not be affected by any harvest activity.
• Trail 820 connects with Trail 508. Trail 508 is open to motorcycles and snowmobiles
over snow, closed to ATVS. Currently, Trail 820 is open to all motorized trail vehicles.
Condition surveys conducted on this trail in 2002 show a 12 to 18 inch tread width, which
indicates ATV use is not established on this trail.
The proposed action includes implementation of access restrictions on Trail 820 to be
consistent with Trail 508. A new access prescription for Trail 820 will open the trail to
motorcycles and snowmobiles over snow and close the trail to ATVs.
This alternative has the least impacts to the trail system of any of the action alternatives.
Under the Restoration Package (Appendix D) for this alternative:
• Approximately 1.5 miles of Road 9836 will be converted from a road to a motorized trail.
The project will install erosion control structures to reduce the rutting and erosion
occurring on this road. The road/trail prism width will not change as the route is a
portion of the groomed snowmobile system and the current road width is needed for the
snowmobile grooming equipment. Once converted to a trail, this 1.5 miles will be closed
to highway vehicles.
• Trail 807 is adjacent to the project area. Under the restoration package, additional
erosion control structures and measures would be undertaken to reduce the
sedimentation produced by the steep 1.1 mile section of this trail. There is a need to
survey for opportunities to relocate this section of the trail to reduce grades for both
resource concerns and user safety. To reduce the grade of the trail switchbacks will
need to be installed, resulting in the length of the steep 1.1-mile section to 1.5 miles.
SNOWMOBILE TRAIL SYSTEM
Five harvest units lie adjacent to the groomed snowmobile route along Roads 9836 and 1803.
These units are 47, 51, 52, 53, and 58. Some of these units will contribute to future play areas
for snowmobiles until such time as regeneration is reestablished.
If Road 1803 is used as a haul route in winter, the Crooked River/Orpgrande area will be
isolated from the Elk City portion of the groomed system. Alternative routes are not available.
Recommended mitigation if winter hauling occurs:
• No hauling will occur on weekends between December 1 and March 30 on Roads 1803
and 9836 to allow for snowmobile traffic.
This alternative has the least impact to the groomed snowmobile system of any of the action
alternatives.
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COMMON To ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES
TABLE 3.114 - ALTERNATIVES B, c, D, AND E - CHANGE IN ACCESS PRESCRIPTION
Alternative
Existing
Condition -
Alternative A
Alternatives B,
C, D, and E
Open to
ATV (mi)
6.1
5.1
Open to
Motorcycles
(mi)
12.6
12.6
Open to
Foot and
Horse (mi)
15.1
15.1
Open to
Snowmobiles
(mi)
12.6
12.6
Groomed
Snowmobile System
(mi)
14.2
14.2
If winter hauling occurs
on Road 1803, these
miles may not be
available during harvest
activity.
3-8-3- CUMULATIVE EFFECTS AMERICAN RIVER AND CROOKED RIVER
ROADS
There are no cumulative effects for the American and Crooked River analysis area road
systems with any of the alternatives considered.
TRAILS
The geographic boundary for cumulative effects is the same as for the American/Crooked River
Project area. i
There are no expected cumulative effects for Alternative A or the action alternatives for trail
opportunities.
3-8-4. IRREVERSIBLE. IRRETRIEVABLE EFFECTS-AMERICAN RIVER
CROOKED RIVER
AND
ROADS
ALTERNA TIVE A (No A CTION AL TERN A TIVE)
There would be no irretrievable or irreversible loss with respect to the road systems in the
American and Crooked River analysis areas.
ALTERNATIVES B. C. D, AND E
There would be an irretrievable loss of access on portions of the American and Crooked River
road systems due to the proposed road decommissioning in Alternatives B, C, D, and E.
In the American River analysis area, the loss of access would be small and would not affect
highway vehicles.
The road decommissioning in the Crooked River analysis area includes the road-to-trail
conversion of the last 1.46 miles of road 9836. As a result of this road-to-trail conversion and
the decommissioning of the last 0.1 miles of Road 522J, there would be a 4.0 percent loss in
access with highway vehicles.
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TRAILS
ALTERNATIVE A
No Irreversible or irretrievable effects to the trail system.
ALTERNATIVE B, C. D, E
No Irreversible or irretrievable effects to the trail system.
Trail 820 connects with Trail 508. Trail 508 is open to motorcycles and snowmobiles over snow,
closed to ATVs. Currently, Trail 820 is open to all motorized trail vehicles. A restriction would
be implemented on Trail 820 that is consistent with the restrictions on Trail 508, i.e. closed to
ATVs, but allow motorcycles and snowmobiles over snow. In the restoration package, similar
restriction on ATVs on Trail 887 would be implemented.
If these actions are implemented, the action alternatives would show a reduction of 1 mile of trail
open to ATVs in Crooked River from 6.1 to 5.1 miles and a 1.6 reduction of miles of trail open to
ATVs in American River.
TABLE 3.115 - MILES OF TRAILS
Alternative
Open to
ATV
(mi)
Open to
Motorcycles
(mi)
Open to Foot
and Horse
(mi)
Open to
Snowmobiles
(mi)
Groomed
Snowmobile System
(mi)
American River: Total Miles - Summer (32.5), Total Miles - Winter (7.2)
Existing
Condition
Action
Alternatives
19.55
17.95
21.05
21.05
32.5
32.5
26.55
26.55
7.2 '
7.2
If winter hauling occurs
on Road 443, these miles
will not be available
during activity.
Crooked River: Total Miles - Summer (15.1), Total Miles -Winter (14.2)
Existing
Condition
All Action
Alternatives
Change from
Existing
6.1
5.1
-2.6
12.6
12.6
0
15.1
15.1
0
12.6
12.6
0
14.2
' 14.2
If winter hauling occurs
on Road 1803, these
miles may not be
available
0 Long Term
3.8.5. SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS FOR TRANSPORTATION -
AMERICAN RIVER AND CROOKED RIVER
ROAD SYSTEM
The following is a summary of the effects on the road system in the American River and
Crooked River analysis areas resulting from the proposed action alternatives.
ALTERNATIVE A-NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
There are no effects on the road system in either analysis area with Alternative A.
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ALTERNATIVES B. C. D. and E
• No permanent new road construction would occur in the American River and Crooked River
analysis areas with any of these action alternatives.
• Temporary roads would be constructed where required to access treatment areas.
• Temporary roads would be decommissioned no later than three years after construction.
• The road management objectives for roads in the American River and Crooked River
analysis areas would not change, except for the roads proposed for decommissioning.
• Public access on roads in the American River and Crooked River analysis areas would
decrease slightly with each of these alternatives. Access with highway vehicles would not
change on roads in the American River analysis area and would decrease on roads .in the
Crooked River analysis area by 4.0 percent with each of these alternatives. The decrease
in access with highway vehicles in the Crooked River analysis area is a result of the
proposed road-to-trail conversion of the last 1.46 miles of road 9836 and decommissioning
of the last 0.1 miles of road 522J.
TRAIL SYSTEM
There is very little change to miles of trail open to different trail users between the action
alternatives. The action alternatives display a 1.6 miles reduction in the number of miles open
to ATV users in American River due to closing Trial 887 to ATVs. Trail 887 is currently open to
ATV uses, but this use has not been established because the tread width is 18 inches and not
suitable for ATVs.
Under the 'no action' alternative, miles of trail open for use can diminish due to the number of
trees falling across trails as the trees fall or wildfire occurs. The current and expected trail
maintenance budget would not provide the maintenance frequency needed to keep the trail
open for the users. Users (both summer and winter) would need to be prepared to open trails
for their own use. Under the action alternatives, the small percentage of the area being treated
will minimally change the impacts to the trail system compared to the 'no action' alternative.
The snowmobile trail system would see some short-term reductions in miles available for use if
winter harvest activity were to occur on Roads 443 and 1803. In American River, limitations on
snowmobile use on Road 443 would not be overly impactive due to an alternate route to the
Selway/American River divide by the use of Road 243. In the Crooked River project area,
winter hauling off Road 1803 will greatly impact the groomed system by isolating the Orogrande
area from the Elk City area. Alternative routes are not available for snowmobile traffic.
Recommended mitigation if winter hauling is to occur, is to allow for snowmobile use during the
weekends from December 1 through March 30 by restricting log truck and highway vehicle use
on Road 1803 from midnight on Friday nights through midnight on Sunday nights.
The following tables display the changes in the access prescriptions for trails under the action
alternatives:
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TABLE 3.116 - AMERICAN RIVER AREA - CHANGES IN TRAIL ACCESS PRESCRIPTIONS
Trail
Number
509
510
830
831
. 832
835
836
846
848
852
887
TRAIL NAME
Otto
Flint Creek
Kirk's Fork
Flatiron
Ridge
East Fork
American
River
Boundary
Trail NRT
American
River
Lower Kirk's
Fork
Red Horse
Ridge
Lower East
fork
American
River
Box Sing
Current Management Objective/Restriction
Open to all motorized trail vehicles, closed to
highway vehicles. Managed for snowmobile uses.
Closed to all motorized vehicles, except
snowmobiles over snow. Managed for pack and
saddle use
Closed to highway vehicles and ATVs. Open to
trail bikes and snowmobiles. Managed for
pack/saddle and motorbike use.
Open to all motorized trail vehicles, closed to
highway vehicles. Managed for pack /saddle and
motorbike use.
From junction with Trail 835 to junction with Trail
831, open to all motorized trail vehicles, closed to
highway vehicles. Managed for ATV use. From
Trail 831 junction to Trail 510 junction, closed to all
motorized uses. Managed for pack and saddle
stock.
Open to all motorized trail vehicles, closed to
highway vehicles. Managed for ATV use.
Open to all motorized trail vehicles. Managed for
pack and saddle use.
Open to all motorized trail vehicles. Managed for
ATV use.
Open to all motorized trail vehicles. Managed for
pack and saddle use.
No restrictions. Managed for hiker use.
Open to all motorized trail vehicles. Managed for
pack/saddle and motorbike use.
PROPOSED ACCESS
MANAGEMENT
RESTRICTION
No change
No change
No change
No change
No change
No change
No change
No change
No change
No change
Open to 2-wheeled
trail vehicles and
snowmobiles over
snow. Closed to
ATVs
Total miles in project area: 32.5
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TABLE 3.117-CROOKED RIVER AREA - CHANGES IN TRAIL ACCESS PRESCRIPTIONS
Traii Number
207
508
(Segment of
Idaho Centennial
Trail)
805
817
820
(Segment of
Idaho Centennial
Trail)
821
(Segment of
Idaho Centennial
Trail)
844
Trail Name
Moose
Butte
Porter's
Miner's
Ditch
Center Star
Mountain
Porter Spur
Silver
Creek
Relief
Creek
Current Management
Objective/Restriction
Open to all motorized trail vehicles,
closed to highway vehicles. Managed
for pack and saddle stock
Open to motorbikes and except
snowmobiles over snow. Managed for
pack and saddle uses.
Closed to all motorized vehicles.
Managed for hiker uses.
Open to motorbikes and snowmobiles
over snow. Closed to highway vehicles
and ATVs. Managed for pack and
saddle stock
Open to all trail uses. Managed for pack
and saddle uses.
Open to all motorized uses. Managed
for ATVs and snowmobiles. Part of the
groomed snowmobile system. Trail 821
shares the template with Road 9836.
Open to motorbikes and snowmobiles
over snow. Closed to highway vehicles
and ATVs. Managed for pack and
saddle stock and trail bikes.
Proposed Access
Management Restriction
No change
No change
No change
No change
Open to 2-wheeled
motorbikes and
snowmobiles over snow.
Closed to ATVs.
Open to all motorized trail
uses. Closed to highway
vehicles. •
No change
Total miles in project area: 15.1
If any of these action alternatives were implemented, there would be a reduction of 1 mile of trail
open to ATVs in Crooked River from 6.1 to 5.1 miles and a 1.6 reduction of miles of trail open to
ATVs in American River. These changes are summarized below:
Under the action alternatives, Harvest activity will temporarily change the character of the trails
in the units as the canopy is removed. The harvest activity will also open vistas from the trails
where units are across or adjacent to the trails. By adhering to the mitigation measures for
trails, the impacts to the trail character will be minimized.
The following table displays the number of units and their location in relation to the existing trails
system:
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TABLE 3.118 - UNITS AND TRAILS
- —^^••M
Alternative A
Alternative B \ Alternative C \ Alternative D I Alternative F
AMERICAN RIVER AREA "—
Units Across Trails
Units Adjacent to Trails
Temporary Road
Crossings
Snowmobile Trails
Units Across Trails
Units Adjacent to Trails
CROOKED RIVER AREA
Units Across Trails
Units Adjacent to Trails
Temporary Road
Snowmobile Trails
Units Across Trails
Units Adjacent to Trails
FOREST PLAN COMPLIANCE
Ind f?^hF°M Sttde S!fdards for transportation, from among those listed on page II-24
and 11-25 of the Nez Perce National Forest Plan and Forest Plan Amendment 20
apply to this project and will be met as follows: enumeni ^u
TABLE 3.119 - FOREST PLAN COMPLIANCE - ROADS AND TRAILS
SUBJECT SUMMARY
COMPLIANCE ACHIEVED BY
FOREST PLAN STANDARDS
3
5
Develop an "Area Transportation Analysis" prior to
entering drainages with land-disturbing activities.
Analyze economics of proposed access developments
using proven tools, and incorporate them into the
project design.
Evaluate all facilities using the Access Management
Analysis Worksheet to determine use restrictions and
access needs.
Maintain access facilities to a level commensurate with
use, user type, user safety, and facility-resource
protection.
Plan, design, and manage all access to meet land and
resource management objectives, meet the State Water
A roads analysis was completed for the project
areas considered.
An economic analysis was completed as part of
this project. The results of this analysis will be
incorporated into the project design.
A roads analysis was completed for the project
areas considered. Criteria associated with this
item were addressed in the roads analysis.
Access facilities will be maintained through
regular maintenance or maintenance proposed
for the purpose of watershed health
improvement (FEIS Appendix D), subject to
funding availability.
Access needs and opportunities were
addressed in the roads analysis completed for
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STANDARD
NUMBER
SUBJECT SUMMARY
COMPLIANCE ACHIEVED BY
Quality Standards, and meet Best Management
Practices (BMPs).
this project. State Water Quality Standards and
BMPs will be met through project design and
implementation, as outlined in FEIS section 2.3.
Plan to implement post-project activities, including
access prescriptions, within two field seasons of the last
land-disturbing activity. Minimize the total time that
roads will be open for construction and timber harvest
activities.
Will be addressed during project design.
Minimize impacts from construction in identified key
riparian and wildlife areas. Develop rehabilitation plans
for existing access facilities that are producing
significant impacts on riparian-dependent resources.
Negative impacts will be minimized through
mitigation measures outlined in FEIS section
2.3. Road decommissioning and road
improvements are proposed as part of the
watershed improvement package (FEIS
Appendix D).
Design all proposed road systems to mitigate at least
60% of the sediment predicted. Utilize proven
mitigation procedures in the design and construction of
roads to meet up to 90 percent of the sediment
predicted, where needed to meet resource
manaoement objectives.
Project activities are designed to meet or
exceed the minimum required sediment
mitigation level.
FOREST PLAN AMENDMENT 2
10
Roads and Trails will be considered open to motorized
use unless oosted (informational sioninq) otherwise.
Roads closed as a result of project activities will
be posted as required. ^
FOREST PLAN AMENDMENT 20 (PACFISH)
RF-1
Cooperate with Federal, Tribal, State, and county
agencies, and cost-share partners to achieve
consistency in road design, operation, and maintenance
necessary to attain Riparian Management Objectives
(RMOs).
Communication is on-going and will continue
through the design and implementation phases
of the project.
RF-2
For each existing or planned road, meet the RMOs and
avoid adverse affects on listed anadromp_us fishby:
a. Completing Watershed Analysis prior to construction
of new roads or landings in Riparian Habitat
Cpnseryatiqn Areas (RHCS).
b. Minimizing road and landing locations in RHCS.
Analysisi was completed by interdisciplinary
team members during development of action
alternative^
This item was a criterion used in the
development of the action alternatives.
c. initiating development and implementation of a Road
Management Plan or a Transportation Management
Plan. At a minimum, address the following items in
the plan:
1) Road design criteria, elements, and standards
that govern construction and reconstruction.
FEis section 2.3; Forest Service Handbook FSH
7709.55 - Transportation Planning Handbook;
Forest Service Handbook FSH 7709.56 - Road
Pre-construction Handbook
2) Road management objectives for;each road.
3) Criteria that govern road operation, maintenance,
and management. .
4) "Requirements for pre-, during-, and post-storm
inspections and maintenance., _.
5) Regulation of traffic during wet periods to
minimize erosion and sediment delivery and
accomplish other objectives.
6) Implementation and effectiveness monitoring
plans for road stability, drainageL and erosion
FEIS Appendix F
Appendix F
inspections and maintenance for storm-related
damage are conducted as necessary. ____________
section 2.3
FEIS Appendix I
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STANDARD
NUMBER
SUBJECT SUMMARY
COMPLIANCE ACHIEVED BY
control.
7) Mitigation plans for road failures.
d. Avoiding sediment delivery to streams from the road
surface.
We will respond to road failures as necessary^
FEISfsection 2.3~
1) Out-sloping of the roadway surface is preferred,
except in cases where out-sloping would increase
sediment delivery to streams or where out-sloping
is infeasible or unsafe.
FEIS section 2.3.
2) Route road drainage away from potentially
unstable stream channels, fills, and hill-slopes.
Road and drainage
projects are proposed
improvement package
e. Avoiding disruption of natural hydrologic flow paths.
Road and drainage
projects are proposed
improvement package
structure improvement
as part of the watershed
(FEIS[Appendix D).
structure improvement
as part of the watershed
f. Avoiding side-casting of soils or snow. Side-casting
of road material is prohibited on road segments
within or abutting RHCAs in watersheds containing
designated critical habitat for listed anadromous fish.
Excess materials resu
maintenance activities
locations.
Iting rom construction or
will be placed in suitable
RF-3
Determine the influence of each road on the Riparian
Management Objectives. Meet Riparian Management
Objectives and avoid adverse effects on listed
anadromous fish by:
Reconstructing road and drainage features that do
not meet design criteria or operation and
maintenance standards, or that have been shown to
be less effective than designed for controlling
sediment delivery, or that retard attainment of
Riparian Management Objectives, or do not protect
designated critical habitat for listed anadromous fish
from increased sedimentation.
Road and drainage structure improvement
projects are proposed as part of the watershed
improvement package (FEIS Appendix D).
Prioritizing reconstruction based on the current and
potential damage to listed anadromous fish and their
designated critical habitat, the ecological value of
the riparian resources affected, and the feasibility of
options such as helicopter logging and road
relocation out of Riparian Habitat Conservation
Areas.
Improvement projects were prioritized using
these criteria, among others (FEIS Appendix D).
Closing and stabilizing or obliterating, and stabilizing
roads not needed for future management activities.
Prioritize these actions based on the current and
potential damage to listed anadromous fish and their
designated critical habitat, and the ecological value
of the riparian resources affected.
These activities are included in the proposed
watershed improvement package (FEIS
Appendix D).
RF-4
Construct new, and improve existing, culverts, bridges,
and other stream crossings to accommodate a 100-year
flood, including associated bed-load and debris, where
those improvements would/do pose a substantial risk to
riparian conditions. Substantial risk improvements
include those that do not meet design and maintenance
criteria, or that retard attainment of Riparian
Management Objectives, or that do not protect
designated critical habitat from increased
sedimentation. Base priority for upgrading on risks to
listed anadromous fish and their designated critical
habitat and the ecological value of the riparian
These activities are included in the proposed
watershed improvement package (FEIS
Appendix D).
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
STANDARD
NUMBER
SUBJECT SUMMARY
resources affected. Construct and maintain crossings
to prevent diversion of streamflow out of the channel
and down the road in the event of failure.
COMPLIANCE ACHIEVED BY
STANDARD
NUMBER
RF-5
SUBJECT SUMMARY
Provide and maintain fish passage at all road crossings
of existing and potential fish-bearing streams.
COMPLIANCE ACHIEVED BY
Stream crossings were evaluated, and those
identified as current or potential fish passage
barriers are included in the watershed
improvement package (FEIS Appendix D).
The following Forest Plan Standards for transportation do not apply within the context of this
project.
TABLE 3.120 - FOREST PLAN STANDARDS FOR TRANSPORTATION THAT DO NOT APPLY
STANDARD I " "~ ~i •
NUMBER | SUBJECT SUMMARY | EXPLANATION
^^^^^—•"•"•^^^^^^^^•1^
ROADS AND TRAILS
Implement Access Management Plan to monitor and evaluate effects
of access on forest resources and the ability of the transportation
system to accomplish the designed use. Use Road Density Index and
Distribution Index as monitoring tools.
Standard is intended for
application on a forest-wide
basis, not at the project level.
Permit access to a corridor if justified and consistent with management
area goals.
Corridor access not required for
this project.
No new power or telephone line
Electric power and telephone lines should generally follow established
transportation corridors. Bury power and telephone lines when
economically and technically feasible. In canyon bottoms, power lines
should not be run between the roadway and the stream or in the
streambed. Avoid frequent crossing and re-crossing of streams.
iiu new yuwei ui itjiepnone line
installation is anticipated with
this project.
'Exclusion Areas," "Avoidance Areas," and "Windows" are specified by
management area where appropriate.
No specification required for this
project.
oacscsscsescs
3.9. HERITAGE
SCOPE OF THE ANALYSIS
Four broad levels of analyses have been performed in order to understand both American
Indian reserved rights, and the significance and extent of heritage resources associated with the
American and Crooked River Project. First, a review of tribal treaty rights applicable to the
project area and the government's inherent trust responsibility was undertaken Secondly
research into the greater history of the project area was conducted to understand the significant
themes or events that have transpired in time and space. Thirdly, a heritage resource survey
was conducted for the project area to identify any existing cultural properties associated with
these themes. Lastly, these properties were evaluated for their National Register status The
results and relevant rationale for each of these analyses are presented below
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AMERICAN INDIAN RESERVED RIGHTS AND GOVERNMENTAL RESPONSIBILITY
The Nez Perce Tribe and the Nez Perce National Forest have long engaged in a strong and
productive government to government relationship concerning the management of National
Forest System lands. An example of this positive relationship is the continuing partnerships
between the Tribe and Forest concerning wildlife and fish habitat improvement. Habitat
enhancement projects, spanning the last 10-20 years, have aided both the Tribe and Forest in
accomplishing common resource objectives, including the planning and implementation of the
Nez Perce Tribal Hatchery Program on the upper South Fork Clearwater River.
As a result of the 1855 Treaty, elements of Nez Perce culture such as tribal welfare, land and
resources were entrusted to the United States government. Trust responsibilities resulting from
the Treaty dictate, in part, that the United States government facilitate the execution of treaty
rights and traditional cultural practices of the Nez Perce Indians by working with them on a
government to government basis in a manner that attempts a reasonable accommodation of
their needs, without compromising the legal positions of the Nez Perce Tribe or the Federal
government. Because tribal trust activities often occur in common with the public, the Nez
Perce National Forest strives to manage Nez Perce ceded land in favor of the concerns of the
Nez Perce Tribe, as far as is practicable, while still providing goods and services to all the
people.
Today, the American and Crooked River Project is located within that area ceded to the United
States in 1855 by the Nez Perce people. The Treaty was subsequently ratified by Congress
and proclaimed by the President in 1859. Although the Forest Service, through the Secretary of
Agriculture, is vested with statutory authority and responsibility for managing resources of the
National Forests such as areas within the project area, no sharing of administrative or
management decision-making power is held with the Nez Perce Tribe. However,
commensurate with the authority and responsibility to manage resources, is the obligation to
consult, cooperate and coordinate with the Nez Perce Tribe in developing and planning projects
within the project area, and on other areas of National Forest system land, that may affect tribal
rights (Executive Order 13175; Section 3a).
Specific Nez Perce treaty rights applicable to the American and Crooked River project area are
generally articulated in Article III of the 1855 Treaty, and include: "The exclusive right of taking
fish in all the streams where running through or bordering said reservation is further secured to
said Indians; as also the right of taking fish at all usual and accustomed places in common with
citizens of the Territory; and of erecting temporary buildings for curing, together with the
privilege of hunting, gathering roots and berries, and pasturing their horses and cattle upon
open and unclaimed land."
The American and Crooked River Project's affect to treaty resources (hunting, fishing, and
gathering) will be returned to below in the section entitled American Indian Use of the Greater
Project Area.
HISTORY OF THE GREATER PROJECT AREA
Situated within the American and Crooked River Project area, are fragile remnants of significant
cultural traditions. These vestiges confront us and reflect centuries-old relationships between
people and their land. The project area's heritage resources hold clues to past ecosystems,
add richness and depth to the landscape, provide links to living traditions, and help transform
our understanding of who we are as a people.
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To date three principal historical themes have been identified for the greater American and
Crooked R,ver Project area consisting of American Indian use, mining settlement and
technology, and public domain administrative history. These themes, or contexts, provide the
basis for understanding the significance of heritage resources situated throughout the greater
project area. It is the combination of these themes and their associated sites and features that
provide an interpretive framework for defining the existing condition for heritage resources
associated with the American and Crooked River Project area. A review of each theme and
associated site known for the project area is described below.
AMERICAN INDIAN USE OF THE GREATER PROJECT AREA.
The American and Crooked River Project is located entirely within that area encompassing the
^H H ,6ZtK M6,?, cn Reservation- The Project area and surrounding environs were later
ceded to the United States by the Nez Perce Tribe in 1863. The project area is also located
near the headwaters of the South Fork Clearwater River, named Too-koo-pah by the local Nez
riV !?nSOhrV 1971)" Herbert Spinden (1908) notes the name of the Nez Perce band
inhabiting the upper South Fork Clearwater River as the Saiksaikinpu, named after the word for
fireweed In May 1861 a Nez Perce village, headed by the leader Cool-cool-snee-nee was
noted just downstream from the current location of Harpster by miners traveling to the upper
reaches of the South Fork (Elsensohn, 1978). However, Alice Fletcher's 1891 review of
traditional village sites associated with the Nez Perce people show no semi-permanent
TfT™^5 '°Cated a'°ng the Upper reaches ofthe South Fork Clearwater River (Sappington,
Gt a/., 1995).
Allan Marshall (1977) has used an ecological interpretive model based largely on plant food
avaHabihty in reporting the economic strategies employed by bands of ethnographic Nez Perce
such as the Saiksaikinpu Band. His model is useful to landscape analysis in that is identifies
the cumulative uses of a watershed at the landscape level over a given year by ethnographic
Nez Perce Marshall combined physiographic and climatic data in producing four zones of plant
food availability. Table 3.121 shows this relationship
TABLE 3.121: TIMING AND AVAILABILITY OF PLANT FOODS IN NEZ PERCE TERRITORY
indicator Species
Scattered sagebrush (gray
rabbitbrush shrubs)
Timing/Scheduling
Early production of vegetable
foods (April), ending in May or
June.
Resources Available
Twelve vegetable
plants.
Mesic shrub species (snowberry,
Rosa sp., and ninebark)
Begins in early summer; dormant
in winter.
Nineteen plant foods.
(plateaus and foothills
Oregon boxwood
Production occurs in late
summer.
Nineteen plant foods.
(plateaus and foe
Fireberry and huckleberries
Production occurs in late
summer.
6 resources appear in
late summer.
By following seasonally available plant foods, the Nez Perce were able to secure at least 35
different plant foods for up to seven months out of the year from drainages like the greater
South Fork Clearwater River. The storage of these plant resources in addition to serviceberry
huckleberry and fireberry, generally rounded out the botanical menu of the Nez Perce These
latter three berry species were the most commonly stored berry by the Nez Perce (Marshall,
1977:63).
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The American and Crooked River Project will likely have a beneficial effect on two of these berry
species. Serviceberry generally declines with canopy closure, but is a common specie following
disturbances such as fire, logging or insect outbreak. Huckleberries increase in response to
overstory removal, with a slow increase in population numbers to follow. Fireberry (hawthorn) is
not commonly found in lodgepole dominated forests such as those associated with the
American and Crooked River Project area. Therefore no effect to fireberry is expected from
implementing the current project (http://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants).
Marshall reports the three most utilized salmonids by the Nez Perce were silver salmon (Coho),
blueback (sockeye), and chinook. Sockeye reportedly did not ascend the South Fork
Clearwater River, while Coho may have although their historical presence has not been well
documented (personal communication, Katherine Thompson). Chinook salmon ascended the
South Fork Clearwater River to spawn in tributaries such as Newsome Creek, Red River,
American River and Crooked River (personal communication, Wayne Paradis). Lamprey eel,
sea-run sucker, whitefish, chiselmouth, sucker, and trout were also utilized by the Nez Perce.
The aquatic improvement packages associated with each alternative of the current project will
benefit these aquatic resources through habitat improvement projects such as in-stream work
within Crooked River, and reduction of sediment through proposed road decommissioning
activities.
Marshall further reports the Nez Perce hunted elk, white-tailed deer, mule deer, mountain
sheep, mountain goat and moose; of which elk, mule deer, and whitetail deer were most
important. Bison and antelope were also hunted on the open plains. Hunting activity was most
prominent in the late summer. . Hunting strategies generally involved ascending one ridge
system into the mountains, while following another ridge system out. Camps along these routes
were generally six to ten miles apart and located at the heads of drainage basins.
Resident ungulate populations within the current project area will benefit from any of the
proposed project alternatives through improved forage availability associated with additional
canopy openings, improving security through further road decommissioning, and maintaining
appropriate closures on roads selected for retention.
American Indians' general use of landscape fire for promoting habitat diversity, clearing
transportation corridors, or as a hunting tool is well documented (Williams, et a/., 2001).
However, specific instances in which the Nez Perce tribe historically used fire at the landscape
level within the upper south fork drainage has not been established to date. The Nez Perce
tribal archaeologist is not aware of specific instances in which fire was historically used for any
aboriginal purpose within or near the current project area.
The Southern Nez Perce Trail, one of several routes used by the Tribe to travel to and from the
Plains, traversed through the general project area. Campsites along this greater trail corridor
may be expected, however, to date no archaeological remains of these or other American
Indian affiliated sites have been located within the specific confines of the project area
associated with the American and Crooked River Project.
MINING SETTLEMENT AND TECHNOLOGY OF THE GREATER PROJECT AREA.
In 1861 placer gold was discovered near Elk City following initial discoveries in other locales in
north-central Idaho the year before. Kathryn McKay (1998:15) notes the development of placer
mining in the region occurred in three stages:
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
1.
Initial rush characterized by the high grading of gravels using rockers, long toms and
sluice boxes. Rockers were used almost exclusively in 1861 and 1862 followed by
sluices in 1863 (see Figure 3.16) once ditches had been constructed (McKay, 1998:25,
Zy
2. Hydraulic giants, ditches and sluice boxes for working hillside gravels (see Figure 3.17)
3. Large mechanical equipment such as dredges and drag lines for processing low grade
gravels (see Figure 3.18) a a
vnfth c 0978:157-180) and McKay (1998:23-41) provide an adequate
review of the upper South Fork placer mining history and is summarized below.
n" i!f6*Vh? 9°ld "T rep0rted t0 be found at a rate of $-25 a Pan near E|k City (local rate for
gold at the time was $16 an ounce). The greater area was organized into the Union District (in
relation to the great conflict gripping the
United States) and quickly reached its zenith
in 1862 when nearly one million dollars in
gold dust was shipped from the District. That
year also marked the beginning of the end, as
mineral discoveries elsewhere in the
Washington Territory dislodged miners from
the District (the area was technically off-limits
to uninvited non-Indians by the Treaty of
1855). The District continued fairly profitable
placer results until approximately 1872.
Mining ditches continued the success of
some placer efforts thereafter.- Large ditches
such as the American River and Elk Creek
ditches were notable early undertakings and
supplied water to areas as far away as the , _ _ _ _____ _
Buffalo Hump mines. Located in mountainous terrain, these ditches were built at a grade of 16'-
20 per mile by men with hand tools or horse teams. Smaller ditches referred to as races often
brought water from the main ditch to individual claims. Ditches were surveyed and constructed
by both small groups and large
companies. Sold by the "miner's
inch," the water was "measured in a
small flume with a headgate under a
six-inch pressure, at an agreed rate
per inch per day" (Hailey, 1910:170).
A miner's inch generally equaled
11.25 gallons per minute. Ditches
generally required large capital to
construct. In 1863-1864, a hand
excavated 9-mile ditch with flumes in
the vicinity of Elk City cost $3,400 per
mile.
-*•"•" ——• *•—«- WHHffi_M_^_t W_K S^T h—KHKn.!*^ **> '
Figure 3.16. Sluice box and miner at work in
north-central Idaho
Figure 3.17. Hydraulic operations in progress aTlhe
Orogrande-Frisco mine
Chinese miners first came to the Elk
City area in 1865 and the vicinity had
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
largely become a Chinese mining camp by the early 1880s, as only eleven EuroAmerican
miners were reportedly left in the District. In 1885, the Elk City area reported about 500
Chinese. Chinese miners continued to work the placer deposits and make profits where others
had given up or failed. It is estimated that 50 percent of all mining ditches in central Idaho were
constructed by Chinese efforts. By 1889, the number of Chinese miners were on the decline as
the First Judicial District of the Territory of Idaho ruled aliens could not possess mining claims
under U.S. mining laws. By 1890, only 35 Chinese remained in Elk City.
Concerning the activities of the initial placer miners relative to the purpose and need associated
with the American and Crooked River Project, an 1898-1899 United States Geographical
Survey report notes the project area
then showed...
"...the results of ancient fires. About
80 per cent of it is covered with
lodgepole pine, the growth of which is
directly traceable to the effects of fires
that ravaged the section a century or
more ago...The early settlers, or rather
prospectors that discovered the Elk City
placers in 1860 and 1861, did not spare
the lodgepole pine growth that they
found covering the country, but fired it
in many places..." (Elsensohn,
1971:13).
Figure 3.18. Dredge processing low-grade placer gravels
on the Crooked River about 1938 (From Elsensohn
1971:48-7)
Hydraulic mining generally followed by
a few years the initial discovery of
placer gold in various Districts. It
required steep terrain to build water
pressure and dispose of waste, as well as large amounts of water and capital. Water under
pressure flowed through penstocks and was diverted through a nozzle referred to as a hydraulic
giant or monitor. Ditches were often constructed to steady or brace smaller pipes extending
from the penstock. These smaller pipes or hoses were used in place of the monitor prior to its
inception in 1869-1870. Water under pressure was applied to the base of slopes thus resulting
in their erosion or collapse. The resulting burden was then washed through sluices to extract
gold. Extensive hydraulic workings were under way in Idaho County during the 1890s, and
specifically within the Orogrande area in the early 1900s. In 1894 the American Hill and Buffalo
Hill hydraulic operations were in progress near Elk City. Both operations employed over twenty
men per 10-hour shift. Two shifts per day were worked at each locale given the need for large
production during the high water seasons. Leggett Creek (just west of the project area) also
had a hydraulic operation as of 1903 operated by Tom and Jim Surrage.
Dredges were also employed in and around the project area to work low-grade gravels, or in
areas too flat for other forms of processing. A sample of dredge workings of the greater project
area and dates of operations are provided by Elsensohn (1971:30-35) and McKay (1998:99),
and shown in Table 3.122.
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TABLE 3.122 - A SAMPLE OF DREDGING LOCATIONS NEAR THE AMERICAN AND CROOKED RIVER
PROJECT AREA, AND THEIR DATES OF OPERATIONS
Location
Red River
Little Elk Creek
Elk Creek/American River Confluence
French Gulch
Deadwood Gulch
Santiam Creek confluence
Nugget Creek
Beaver Creek
American River
Crooked River
Transported to site by 13 teams
of horses in 1 899
1909
1909
Long since completed by 1922
1936
1937
Post 1938
1938
1938
1938
The greater Elk City vicinity saw a second rush of miners in the mid-1880s with the advent of
quartz mining (only a few quartz lodes were developed during the initial 1860s excitement) The
*-,q,USJf i°fatl°n near Elk City was the Buster mine- initial|y claimed in 1870, but not worked
until 1902 following the construction of the American Eagle mill. The Badger mine in the
Orogrande locality began work in 1896, and the Hogan Mine (later the Orogrande-Frisco mine)
was worked in 1902 at which time a twenty-stamp mill was constructed at the mine (see Figure
ioc2; L u-Mnno^10 °f 1893 SlOWed both quartz and ptacer ^"'"9 for tw° V^rs (McKay,
1998). McKay (1998:58) further notes:
"...beginning in 1895 placer and lode mining again became active. Quartz
mining in Idaho County declined after 1909, reaching its low in 1920. From then
until 1932 there was very little quartz mining activity in the county. Development
was hampered by poor transportation (preventing the development of the large
low-grade deposits), the short operation season, the small size of the high-grade
veins, and incompetent management. None of the lode mines in north-central
Idaho were very extensive, and none reached a depth of more than a few
hundred feet. By far the most common method of ore treatment was crushing in
stamp mills followed by plate amalgamation, resulting in the recovery of only
about 60 percent of the gold in the ore...During the Depression of the 1930s,
because of higher gold prices and improved road systems, lode mining in Idaho
County experienced a revival. Most of the small veins were owner-operated at
that time because the veins generally were not rich enough to support the
overhead necessary for company operations. "
Exceptions to this last statement did occur, however. The Gnome Gold Mining Company built a
sawmill in the Orogrande locality in 1932. The Orogrande-Frisco mine resumed operations in
1933 and built a 500-ton cyanide mill. The Clearwater Concentration Company also
constructed a 60-ton mill at the mouth of the Crooked River in the late 1930s. The Orogrande-
Frisco mine was reported to be the largest open-pit mine in Idaho, and in 1938 was the largest
operating cyanide-process mill in the Northwest (McKay, 1998).
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PUBLIC DOMAIN ADMINISTRATIVE HISTORY OF THE GREATER PROJECT AREA.
In 1897 President Grover Cleveland added the 4.1 million acre Bitterroot Forest Reserve to the
existing reserve system. Administered by the General Land Office of the Department of the
Interior, this new Reserve immediately became the target of critics who worked to reduce its
size or eliminate its existence, owing to the perceived mineral wealth of the region (Baird, 1999).
These efforts were partly successful, for in 1904 the Elk City township and areas in the Buffalo
Hump country were withdrawn from public domain. The remainder of the Reserve, however,
continued under federal management and starting in 1905, was administered by the Department
of Agriculture after the creation of the Forest Service that year. In 1907, public domain
encompassing the greater project area became part of the Bitterroot National Forest, and in
1908 became part of the newly created Nez Perce National Forest, which it remains today.
The development, administration and utilization of these federal lands continued as timber,
mining and recreation all became important activities during the early 20th century. Slowly,
transportation routes, communication lines and structural improvements were made to better
manage these functions. Work relief programs of the 1930s supported these endeavors. The
Civilian Conservation Corps, for example, contributed largely to the cultural landscape of the
greater project area, the results of which are still present today in the form of roads, trails, guard
stations, fire lookouts etc.
TABLE 3.123 - HISTORICAL CLASSIFICATION & CHRONOLOGY OF LAND ENCOMPASSING THE
AMERICAN AND CROOKED RIVER PROJECT
Dates
Pre 1848
1848-1855
1855-1859
1859-1863
1863-1890
1890-1897
1897-1907
1907-1908
1908-present
Classification
Indian Title
Indian Title, also included within the Oregon Territory of
1848
Included within the 1855 Nez Perce Indian Reservation
Still located within the 1 855 Reservation, but then part
of the newly formed Washington Territory
Included within the newly created Idaho Territory (no
longer part of the Nez Perce Reservation following its
size reduction associated with the Treaty of 1863)
Located within the newly formed state of Idaho
Part of the Bitterroot Forest Reserve of Idaho
Part of the Bitterroot National Forest
Included within the Nez Perce National Forest
REGULATORY FRAMEWORK
Section 101 of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) requires the Federal Government
to preserve important historic, cultural, and natural aspects of our national heritage. To
accomplish this, federal agencies utilize the Section 106 process associated with the National
Historic Preservation Act (NHPA). Passed by Congress three years before NEPA, the NHPA
sets forth a framework for identifying and evaluating historic properties, and assessing effects to
these properties. This process has been codified in 36 CFR 800 Subpart B. The coordination
or linkage between the Section 106 process of the NHPA and the mandate to preserve our
national heritage under NEPA is well understood, and is formally established in 36 CFR 800.3b
and 800.8. The terminology of "...important historic, cultural, and natural aspects of our national
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K,uA~r 'n NEPA 'ncludes those resources defined as "historic properties" under the
NHPA (36 CFR 800.16(0(1)). It is thus the Section 106 process agencies utilize to consider
manage and protect historic properties during the planning and implementation stages of federal
undertakings. Locally, the Nez Perce National Forest uses a programmatic agreement (PA)
signed between Region-1 of the USDA FS, Idaho State Historic Preservation Office and
Advisory Council on Historic Preservation to implement the Section 106 process. Forest Plan
Standards for heritage resources applicable to the current project largely reiterate key
components found within Section 106 of the NHPA, and are presented at the end of this section
in Table 3.131.
The key components of the Section 106 process generally include:
• Determining the area of potential effects (APE)
• Identification efforts to locate historic properties within the APE
• Evaluating located properties for their National Register significance
• Assessing project effects to National Register eligible properties
• Resolving adverse effects (if any) to National Register eligible properties in consultation
with the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO), Advisory Council on Historic
Preservation and Tribes as needed to avoid, minimize or mitigate adverse effects on
historic properties
The below discussion outlines the steps taken by the Nez Perce National Forest to comply with
the above steps of the Section 106 process, as related to the American and Crooked River
Project.
DETERMINING THE AREA OF POTENTIAL EFFECTS (APE).
The APE is defined in 36 CFR 800.16d as the geographic area or areas within which an
undertaking may directly or indirectly cause alterations in the character or use of historic
properties. Given the general extent and range of activities proposed within the four action
alternatives associated with the American-Crooked River Project, in addition to the type of
historic properties known for the project area, the APE associated with the current project is
generally viewed as those specific areas scheduled to receive direct ground disturbing activities
as a result of implementing any one of the four alternatives.
IDENTIFICATION EFFORTS TO LOCATE HISTORIC PROPERTIES WITHIN THE APE.
Heritage resource surveys designed to locate historic properties within the APE are tiered to the
Site Identification Strategy for the Clearwater and Nez Perce National Forests (Hill 2001) and
reflect the best available science. Surveys of the project area were conducted during the 2003
and 2004 field seasons by the Nez Perce Forest Heritage Program. As a result, 1 335 acres
were surveyed for heritage resources. An additional 73 acres previously surveyed for the
Moose Butte Salvage Sale in 1996 (Fulbright, 1996) was also used to cover the current project
area. All heritage resource identification work and results, including recommended mitigation
measures, have been reported to the Idaho State Historic Preservation Office (ISHPO) for
concurrence. The ISHPO has concurred on all aspects of this work.
To date, twenty-five cultural properties, or heritage resources, have been identified within the
APE and are described in Table 3.129. Seven of these properties were identified by past field
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efforts, while eighteen of these resources were located as a result of survey work conducted for
the current project.
EVALUATING LOCATED PROPERTIES FOR THEIR NATIONAL REGISTER SIGNIFICANCE.
The eighteen new properties located as a result of performing heritage resource surveys for the
current project were evaluated against the National Register Criteria, which is presented below.
CRITERIA FOR NATIONAL REGISTER ELIGIBILITY
The quality of significance in American history, architecture, archeology, engineering, and
culture is present in districts, sites, buildings, structures, and objects that possess integrity
of location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling, and association and:
(a) That are associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the
broad patterns of our history; or
(b) That are associated with the lives of persons significant in our past; or
(c) That embody distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of construction,
or that represent the work of a master, or that possess high artistic values, or that
represent a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack
individual distinction; or
(d)That have yielded, or may be likely to yield, information important in prehistory or
history.
TABLE 3.124 - LIST OF CULTURAL PROPERTIESI WITHIN THE AMERICAN AND CROOKED RIVER
PROJECT APE
Site
Number
NZ-5-94
NZ-5-95
NZ-5-96
NZ-5-97
NZ-5-98
NZ-5-99
NZ-5-100
NZ-5-101
Site Type
Mining site
Trail
Mining ditch
Exploratory ditch
and prospects
Mining prospects
Mining prospects
Trail
Trail
Significance
Not eligible
Not eligible
Not eligible
Not eligible
Not eligible
Not eligible
Not eligible
Not eligible
Nationai Register
Criteria/Justification
Site is less than 50 years old and thus not
eligible for the National Register
Recordation has exhausted its research
potential
(a) and (c)
Recordation has exhausted its research
potential
Recordation has exhausted its research
potential
Recordation has exhausted its research
potential
Recordation has exhausted its research
potential
Recordation has exhausted its research
potential
The specific location of these properties is not available for public disclosure (36 CFR 296.18).
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Site
Number
NZ-5-104
NZ-5-105
NZ-5-106
NZ-5-107
NZ-5-108
NZ-5-113
NZ-5-114
NZ-5-117
NZ-5-118
10IH1713
10IH2507
10IH2509 .
10IH2513
10IH2523
10IH2535
10IH2649
Site Type
Camp
Trail
Mining ditch
Kirks Fork mining
ditch
Mining ditch
Discontinuous trail
Mining ditch
Mining related
features
Mining prospects
Mining structures
Mining site
Mining adit
Dilapidated mining
cabin
Prospect pits
Prospect pits
Mining related
features
Significance
Eligible
Not eligible
Not eligible
Eligible
Eligible
Not eligible
Not eligible
Eligible
Eligible
Not eligible
Not eligible
Not eligible
Not eligible
Not eligible
Not eligible
Not eligible
Not eligible
National Register
(d)
Recordation has exhausted its research
potential
Recordation has exhausted its research
potential
(a) and (c)
(a) and (c)
Lack of integrity
Recordation has exhausted its research
potential
(a) and (c)
(a) and (d)
Recordation has exhausted its research
potential
Previously recorded sites determined not
eligible
Previously recorded sites determined not
eligible
Previously recorded sites determined not
eligible
Previously recorded sites determined not
eligible
Previously recorded sites determined not
eligible
Previously recorded sites determined not
eligible
Previously recorded sites determined not
eligible
ASSESSING PROJECT EFFECTS TO NATIONAL REGISTER ELIGIBLE PROPERTIES.
All five cultural properties determined eligible for the National Register of Historic Places within
the APE have been identified on the ground. Project activities and/or their associated
boundaries in the vicinity of these properties will be modified, as appropriate, to assure the
avoidance of significant elements associated with these National Register properties. As a
result, the agency has made a "no adverse effect" finding concerning cultural properties and the
American Crooked River Project per Stipulation V(d)(1) of the PA. The IDSHPO has concurred
with all avoidance measures associated with this "no adverse effect" determination.
RESOLVING ADVERSE EFFECTS TO NATIONAL REGISTER ELIGIBLE PROPERTIES.
Because of appropriate mitigation/avoidance measures (see Chapter 2 - Project Design and
Mitigation Measures), no adverse effects to National Register eligible properties have been
identified in conjunction with the implementation of the American and Crooked River Project.
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SUMMARY OF CUMULATIVE EFFECTS FOR HERITAGE RESOURCES
Five cultural properties eligible for the National Register of Historic Places have been identified
within, or immediately adjacent to, the American and Crooked River project, and will be
protected from disturbance resulting from project activity (see Table 3.130).
TABLE 3.125 - LIST OF CULTURAL PROPERTIES ASSOCIATED WITH THE AMERICAN AND CROOKED RIVER
PROJECT THAT HAVE BEEN DETERMINED ELIGIBLE FOR THE NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES
Site Number1
NZ-5-103
NZ-5-106
NZ-5-107
NZ-5-114
NZ-5-117
Site Type
Trail
Mining ditch
Mining ditch
Mining ditch
Mining features
FOREST PLAN COMPLIANCE
The following Heritage related Forestwide Standards, from among those listed on page 11-17 of
the Nez Perce National Forest Plan, apply to this project and will be met as follows.
TABLE 3.126 - FOREST PLAN COMPLIANCE - HERITAGE
STANDARD
NUMBER
1
2
3
4
5 (as
amended,
1990)
SUBJECT
SUMMARY
Survey areas
scheduled for land
disturbance...
Evaluate and
protect sites and
districts...
Protect American
Indian religious
and cultural
sites...
Protect and
preserve National
Register eligible
properties...
Consult with Nez
Perce Tribe...
COMPLIANCE ACHIEVED BY
An appropriate heritage resource survey has been conducted for the
project area and approved by the Idaho State Historic Preservation Office
Design criteria #42 (see Chapter 2). Evaluation of all 25 sites within the
project area has occurred and protection measures are in place for those
sites eligible for the National Register of Historic Places. The Idaho State
Historic Preservation Office has approved all evaluations and protection
measures
Government-to-Government consultation has occurred
Design Criteria #42 and #43 (see Chapter 2). All National Register eligible
properties have been identified for the project area. Appropriate protection
measures for these properties have been developed and accepted by the
Idaho State Historic Preservation Office
Government-to-Government consultation has occurred
The following Heritage related Forestwide Standards, from among those listed on page ll-17_of
the Nez Perce National Forest Plan, do not apply to the current project as explained below.
1 The specific location of these properties is not available for public disclosure (36 CFR 296.18).
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TABLE 3.127 - FOREST PLAN STANDARDS FOR HERITAGE THAT DO NOT APPLY
STANDARD
NUMBER
6
7
SUBJECT
SUMMARY
Write a cultural
resource overview. . .
Identify maintenance
and/or stabilization
needs of historic
properties
EXPLANATION
This is an overall Heritage Program objective, and not a project specific
mandate
No historic properties requiring specific maintenance and/or stabilization
activities have been identified within the Area of Potential Effect
associated with the current project
cs us as us o« e*
3.10. VEGETATION
SCOPE OF THE ANALYSIS
The scope of the vegetation analysis for existing condition and effects of the alternatives is
defined by stand information from the American and Crooked River planning area. Indicators
incorporate timber volume and stand structure characteristics, .including trees per acre, size,
species composition, and snag/dead wood components. Direct and indirect effects are
analyzed at the planning area level. Cumulative effects will include significant information from
the planning area and adjacent areas in the watershed.
REGULATORY FRAMEWORK
The Nez Perce National Forest Plan (USDA FS, 1987a, p. II-1-II-8) established goals and
objectives for the management of the Forest. The purpose of specific Forest Plan goals that
apply to vegetation management in the American and Crooked River analysis area is to:
• Provide a sustained yield of resource outputs that would help support the economic
structure of local communities and provide for regional and national needs (USDA FS
1987a, pll-1).
• Recognize and promote the intrinsic ecological and economic value of wildlife and
wildlife habitats. Provide high quality and quantity of wildlife habitat to ensure diversified
recreational use and public satisfaction (USDA FS, 1987a, p. 11-1).
• Protect resource values through cost-effective fire and fuels management, emphasizing
fuel treatment through the utilization of material and using prescribed fire (USDA FS
1987a, p. II-2).
• Protect resource values through the practice of integrated pest management (USDA FS
1987a, p. II-2).
The Nez Perce National Forest Plan (NPFP) identified management area designations to
distinguish differing management emphasis between geographic areas. The Nez Perce Forest
Plan gives general guidelines, goals, and standards for manipulation of forest vegetation within
these management areas, this information can be found throughout Chapter III of the Plan.
Amendment 20 to the Forest Plan incorporates PACFISH standards and guidelines into the
Forest Plan. Briefly, these prohibit timber harvest in Riparian Habitat Conservation Areas
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(RHCA) except for salvage after a catastrophic event or to acquire desired vegetation
characteristics where needed to attain Riparian Management Objectives.
The National Forest Management Act of 1976 states that "timber would be harvested from
National Forest Land only where there is assurance that such lands can be adequately
restocked within five years after harvest." (16 U.S.C. 1604). Additional clarification on this
subject is found in the Code of Federal Regulations, which specifies that, "When trees are cut to
achieve timber production objectives, the cuttings shall be made in a way as to assure that the
technology and knowledge exists to adequately restock the lands within five years after final
harvest. Research and experience shall be the basis for determining whether the harvest and
regeneration practices planned can be expected to result in adequate restocking." The
statement, "Five years after final harvest..." means five years after clearcutting, five years after
final overstory removal in shelterwood cutting, five years after seed tree removal cut in seed tree
cutting, or five years after selection cutting" (Title 36 CFR 219.27 (c) (3)).
CLEARCUTTING AND EVEN-AGE MANAGEMENT (16 U.S.C. 1604(G)(3)(F)(i)).
When timber is to be harvested using an even-age management system, a determination that
the system is appropriate to meet the objectives and requirements of the Forest Plan must be
made, and, where clearcutting is used, it must be determined to be the optimum method. All
even-aged management proposed in the American and Crooked River Project is appropriate to
meet the objectives and requirements of the Forest Plan. The silvicultural prescription of
clearcut with reserves is the optimum treatment for the proposed units because the species
composition of the existing stands is at high risk for loss to insects or disease. The silvicultural
prescriptions will further detail and clarify tree species at risk and the specific insect and disease
vectors.
FOREST SERVICE MANUAL - POLICY (FSM 2470.3)
REGIONAL FORESTER'S POLICY:
When timber production is emphasized in forest plans, silvicultural practices will ensure that
stands achieve and maintain the level of stocking, species composition and structure best suited
to meeting short- and long-term management objectives, including those addressing volume
growth and yield. Broad scale factors, such as how concepts of disturbance ecology
complement or risk long-term sustainability of the resources we manage, should be recognized
prior to implementing silvicultura! treatments.
When other resources are emphasized along with timber production, it is important that
stocking, species composition and stand structure identified to meet short- and long-term
resource management objectives also be implementable and sustainable considering concepts
of disturbance and forest ecology. Modification of desired stand composition and structure
conditions should be done to complement landscape level desired composition, structure, and
function objectives.
If timber production is not an objective, silvicultural practices that maintain tree vigor and
promote resistance to damaging agents will be used. Dysgenic practices will be avoided.
Silvicultural practices must be ecologically sound. Treatments need not duplicate natural
processes, but they must be compatible with the natural forces that create changes in the forest
ecosystem.
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OPENINGS OVER 40 ACRES
Direction in Forest Service Manual 2400, Chapter 70, Section 2471.1 (citation) states that the
size of openings created by even-aged silvicultural treatments in the Northern Rockies will
normally be 40 acres or less, with certain exceptions. One of those exceptions includes
catastrophic events such as fire, windstorms, or insect and disease attacks. In these cases, the
40-acre limitation may be exceeded without 60-day public review and without Regional Forester
approval, provided the public is notified and the environmental analysis supports the decision.
This documentation of the proposed creation of these openings constitutes public notification.
Implementation of any of the action alternatives would create some openings that are greater
than 40 acres in size. Average stocking levels of trees in these openings would vary from 0
trees to as many as 30 trees per acre, depending on tree species and condition of individual
trees. Snags and green tree replacements should remain where available based on the table in
Appendix K. All of these openings have been precipitated by the action of catastrophic events,
in this case insect attacks and disease. The units themselves range in size from 1 to 81 acres
in size. However, some of them are adjacent to other planned or existing units, and cumulative
opening size will exceed 40 acres in several instances. Table L-1 in Appendix L displays the
maximum number of openings over 40 acres that would be created with Alternative D, the
alternative that harvests the most acres.
ANALYSIS METHODS
The data sources for analysis of the existing vegetation condition were stand exam information
from the Field Sampled Vegetation Database (FSVEG), activities from the Forest database
(TSMRS), Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA), Region 1 Vegetation Map (R1VMAP), aerial
photo interpretation, and field surveys. Additional analysis was done using the Forest
Vegetation Simulator (FVS) and Geographic Information System (CIS) coverages. Data for
Cover Types and structure (size class, densities and canopy layers) were analyzed where
treatments will occur. Projections and mathematical formulas were used to determine the
changes for each alternative.
Initial selection of potential harvest areas was based on insect and disease severity mapping,
aerial photograph interpretation, and field review. Forest stand data from Forest Service
databases, including acres, slope, trees per acre (weighted average), volume per acre, acres of
harvest by harvest type, habitat type, and forest type was used to determine the characteristics
of vegetation in the analysis area. RHCA widths were identified based on stream characteristics
and fish populations. Areas within RHCAs, inventoried roadless areas, high landslide prone
acres, and designated old growth were identified and eliminated from further consideration.
Harvest systems were assigned to the potential harvest areas based on topography, slope and
access. Percent harvest removal was based on a desired future target stand and utilized stand
exam data, projections from FVS, aerial photograph interpretation, and field review.
Recent scientific studies and reports, including those from the Science integration Team of
ICBEMP, point to a loss of landscape integrity as indicated by potential tree mortality from
insects and disease at nearly twice the historical levels. The shift to more insect and disease
vulnerable forests can be attributed to fire exclusion and past harvest practices (General
Technical Report PNW-GTR-458, by Paul F. Hessburg, et at 1999).
The Interior Columbia Basin Scientific Assessment (Quigley and Arbelbide, 1997) found forest
integrity to be low in the South Fork Clearwater River subbasin, based on the reduction of serai
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tree species, changes in tree size classes, and disruption to fire regimes, among other factors.
The Interior Columbia Basin Scientific Assessment categorized the American and Crooked
River project area as Forest Cluster 3. It states that Forest Cluster 3 has low forest integrity
with high mean departures in fire frequency and severity (Quigley, et a/., 1996, p. 96-117).
The South Fork Clearwater Landscape Assessment (SFLA) (USDA FS 1998a) characterized
the ecological and social conditions in the South Fork Clearwater River subbasin and provided a
context for future forest management decisions in the area. The assessment recommended
vegetation themes for the American and Crooked River watersheds. The recommended
vegetation theme is to restore vegetation pattern. More detailed descriptions of these themes
are found in the South Fork Landscape Assessment (USDA FS 1998a, pp. 138-141 and 146-
149).
ROADSIDE SALVAGE
The purpose of this action is to use incidental salvage to recover economic value over limited
areas immediately adjacent to haul routes. The scope of this action is limited in extent to avoid
large unplanned openings; and is limited in intensity to minimize loss of elk hiding cover, to
prevent large areas devoid of snags or recruitable soil wood, and to avoid continuous
accumulations of fine slash along roads that may be used as fuel breaks in fire suppression.
Proposals to treat extensive areas of highly concentrated mortality adjacent to roadways are
either described as specific treatment units in this analysis or would be addressed in
subsequent environmental analyses.
DESIGN CRITERIA:
• Roadside salvage would be limited to dead or dying trees, with no harvest of standing trees
more than 20 inches in diameter. (Windthrown trees would not be subject to the diameter
limit.)
• Salvage would be limited to areas adjacent to haul roads. No tree cutting or yarding would
occur in RHCAs or in allocated existing or replacement old growth.
• All yarding would be done from the road. Areas above steep cutslopes that cannot be
protected from yarding damage would be omitted from salvage. Yarding distance would not
exceed 100 feet.
• No more than 80 dead or dying trees per mile (approximately 8 trees/acre) could be
designated for cutting on each side of the road.
• Maximum opening size is one acre on each side of a road, or a maximum of 400 feet along
the road.
• Openings would be separated from other forest openings by at least 200 feet of pole size or
larger forest along the road, on both sides, to provide cover for wildlife crossing.
• Slash from salvage would be lopped and scattered, hand piled and burned in the woods, or
removed from the site at the discretion of the District Ranger considering the Forest objective
of maintaining less than 12 tons per acre of fine fuels.
• This component of the action would comply with all applicable design criteria developed
for the action as a whole.
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• These design criteria are not intended to limit or interfere with brushing, clearing, or
hazard reduction activities associated with routine road maintenance.
3.10.1. VEGETATION - AMERICAN RIVER
INTRODUCTION
Plant communities in the analysis area can be seen as a mosaic of patches that change in
composition, size, and position in relation to one another over time. Wildlife and humans
respond in varying ways to a particular pattern of vegetation. In fact, processes such as fire,
plant community succession, insect and disease activity, drought, and grazing all have the
ability to change the pattern that exists at any given time. Additionally, features such as climate,
soil, slope, aspect, and elevation control the bounds within which patterns can change. The
terms Vegetation Response Unit (VRUs) and Potential Vegetation Groups (HVGs), which occur
within VRUs, are used to describe these bounds. The VRU is intended to be a compilation of
lands having similar capabilities and potentials for management. As mapped areas these units
have similar patterns in potential natural communities (habitat types), soils, hydrologic function,
landform and topography, rock formations, climate, air quality, and natural disturbance
processes (fire regimes, succession, productivity, nutrient cycling). The interaction of all these
processes creates a mosaic across the area landscape. Within individual areas of any VRU
over time, the proportion of age and size classes, successional stage, impacts of fire and/or
disease will be dynamic as natural and managed disturbances occur. Potential Vegetation
Groups are a grouping of vegetative types based on similar general moisture or temperature
environments.
The VRUs for the American River portion of the analysis are shown in figure 3.19. Within these
delineations, presettlement processes (e.g., climate, fire, insect and disease activity) likely
operated within somewhat predictable ranges. Understanding how these past disturbance
regimes worked and the pattern of vegetation change, is fundamental to current management of
ecosystems. Furthermore, this knowledge can be used to help design management structures
that sustain patterns of vegetation at the scale, frequency, and kind of change to which native
species are adapted.
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FIGURE 3.19
AMERICAN RIVER VRU'S
VRU 10, 1470 ac,
9o/0 -\ VRU 1, 354 ac, 2%
[AC]
VRU 8, 493 ac, 3%
VRU 7, 3146 ac,
20%
|VRU
VRU 6, 10129ac,
66%
(VRU 1: Convex slopes, subalpine fir, VRU 6: Cold basins, grand fir and subalpine fir,
VRU 7: Moist uplands, grand fir and Pacific yew, VRU 8: Breaklands, cedar and grand fir, VRU
10: Uplands, alder, grand fir and subalpine fir habitat types.)
3.10.1.1. INDICATOR 1 -COMPOSITION (COVERTYPE/SPECIES/LAYER/AGE)
EXISTING CONDITION
The historic and existing condition of vegetation in the American and Crooked Rivers Project
Area is discussed in general terms in the South Clearwater Landscape Assessment (USDA FS
1998xxx) in Chapter 3 (pp. 20, 82-98) and Chapter 4 (pp. 138-141 [American River] and pp 146-
149 [Crooked River]).
For the past decade, a mountain pine beetle epidemic has been causing mortality in mature
lodgepole pine in the upper reaches of the South Fork Clearwater River. The epicenters have
been concentrated in the Red River drainages and are spiraling out to adjacent drainages,
including the American River on the north and the Crooked River to the west. This is the most
extensive and damaging outbreak in the Northern Region. The highest concentrations of
beetle-caused mortality were noted around Red River and Elk City. Through the analysis of
field surveys and stand analyses it has been determined that lodgepole pine overstory mortality
is currently estimated at 70 to 80 percent in these areas. A slight decrease in lodgepole pine
mortality in the Red River watershed was noted between 2002 and 2003, due to host depletion
(Gibson, 2003). In the summer of 2003, mortality within the American and Crooked River
project area was somewhat lower at 50 to 60 percent. However, lodgepole mortality will likely
advance to the same level as in the Red River drainage during the upcoming growing season.
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Indicators of the existing condition of vegetation and effects of various management alternatives
to the vegetation are described by forest cover types and structure (including size classes,
canopy layers, and stand density).
The American River portion of the project area encompasses approximately 15,600 acres. The
Forest Service Timber Stand Management Record System (TSMRS) indicates that previous
harvest in the project area, dating from the 1950s to the present occurred on approximately
3,082 acres. Harvest methods included 1,126 acres of thinning/salvage, 742 acres of
shelterwood/seed tree, and 1214 acres of clearcut.
Figure 3.20 portrays harvest by method, acres, and percentage of the analysis area.
FIGURE 3.20
AMERICAN RIVER PORTION
PREVIOUS HARVEST
0,12509,81%
4113,1126,7%
4114,88,1%
•4131,220,1%
4132,466,3%
4147, 57, 0%
4210, 152, 1%
4211. 284, 2%
4220,80, 1%
4230, 389. 2%
4240,221, 1%
(Harvest codes: 0 - no harvest, 4113 - stand clearcut, 4114 - clearcut with reserve trees, 4131
- shelterwood seed cut, 4132 - seed tree cut, 4147 - seed tree final cut, 4210 - improvement
cut, 4211 - liberation cut, 4220 - thinning)
FOREST COVER TYPES
A combination of wildfire, intentional fire, timber harvest, and fire suppression have shaped the
existing pattern and composition of vegetation in the analysis area. The greatest changes from
historic vegetation conditions include:
Declines in lodgepole pine-dominated communities due to harvest, fire suppression and forest
succession.
Increases in more shade tolerant tree species, such as subalpine fir and grand fir, due to fire
suppression and forest succession.
Declines in shrubland, riparian shrub, and riparian meadow due to forest encroachment,
agricultural conversion, and forest succession
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Whitebark pine has declined seriously from blister rust, fire exclusion and mountain pine beetle.
Western white pine, never abundant, has also declined from blister rust.
Early serai structural stages, including forest openings, seedling and sapling, and pole stands,
with snags and down wood, have decreased because of fire suppression. Medium and large
tree classes have increased in most areas except larch and ponderosa pine forests.
Figure 3.21 and Table 3.128 display cover types in the American River portion of the analysis
area.
FIGURE 3.21
American River Portion
Dominant Species
PICO, 4420, 29%
ABLA, 40, 0%
TGCH, 4300, 28%
TASH, 1042,7%
SHR, 264, 2%
PIEN, 45, 0%
PSME, 5211,34%
(KEY: DOMINANT SPECIES, ACRES, PERCENT)
TABLE 3.128 - AMERICAN RIVER PORTION DOMINANT COVER TYPES.
Dominance
Code
ABLA
PICO
PIEN
PIPO_MMIX
PSME
SHR
TASH
TGCH
Description
Abies-lasocarpa (subalpine fir)
Pinus contorta (lodgepole pine)
Picea engelmannii (Englemann spruce)
Shade-intolerant mixed conifer (ponderosa pine, Douglas-fir, western larch)
Pseudotsuga menziesii (Douglas-fir)
Shrub Dominated
Shade-tolerant mixed conifer (ABLA/PIEN/TSME)
Shade-tolerant mixed conifer (ABGR/THPL/TSHE)
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STRUCTURE (SIZE CLASSES, DENSITY AND CANOPY LAYERS)
SIZE CLASSES
Average tree size varies depending on year of origin, tree species, and growing conditions.
Approximately two percent of the analysis area consists of regenerating harvest units with tree
diameters less than five inches and 98 percent of the area supports trees with five inches
diameter at breast height (DBH) or greater. Figure 3.22 displays existing tree size classes in
the project area.
FIGURE 3.22
American River Portion
Size Class Distribution
Small Tree (5-9.9 in.
DBH), 1868, 12%
Shrub Dominated, 264,
2%
Seedling/Sapling Tree
(<5in. DBH), 12,0%
Medium Tree (10-14.9
in. DBH), 3645, 24%
Large/Very Large Tree
•= 15 in. DBH), 9532,
62%
STAND DENSITY
Stand density, measured in trees per acre vary widely across the project area. Variations are
due to elevation, aspect, soils and moisture, as well as disturbances such as insect activity, fire
and harvest. Stand densities in previously harvested, regenerated stands in the project area
range from approximately 1,000 to 4,000 trees per acre of sapling to pole-sized trees in
unthinned stands, to approximately 435 trees per acre in thinned stands. Stand densities in the
table below have been calculated for previously unmanaged stands in the project area. One
consequence of increased stand densities is the increase in fuel loading (tons per acre of
vegetative fuel) that could increase fire intensity, severity and resistance to control. Table 3.129
displays average stand densities by size class for previously unmanaged stands in the project
area.
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TABLE 3.129 - UNMANAGED STAND DENSITIES IN THE AMERICAN RIVER AREA
Size Class
Seedling/Sapling
(<5 inch DBH)
Small
(5-9.9 inch DBH)
Medium Trees
(10-14.9 inch DBH)
Large
(15 + inch DBH)
Trees/Acre
1,300
66
53
5
Acres by Size
Class
• 12
1865
3645
9532
Percent of
Project Area
0%
12%
24%
<62%
CANOPY
What were once relatively simple one and two story stands have transitioned to more complex
multi-story stands. Lodgepole pine mortality will further accelerate this shift toward multi-storied
conditions. Figure 3.23 displays canopy layers in the project area.
FIGURE 3.23
American River Portion
Percent Canopy Cover
60-100%, 8956,58%
Shrub dominated
lifeform, 264, 2%
10-24.9%, 1012,7%
25-59.9%, 5089, 33%
(Key: Canopy cover percent, acres, percent of area)
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
Forest succession, insect and disease activity, timber harvest, fire and fire suppression have
resulted in changed cover types and forest structure since presettlement (USDA FS, 2003a).
Changes in forest cover types and structure (size class, stand density and canopy layers) are
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used as indicators to quantify effects on vegetation. Cumulative effects are analyzed within the
American River Drainage.
All action alternatives would have some direct effects to cover types and stand structure. All
action alternatives would reduce the potential for severe fire through fuel removal and modify
the susceptibility of forested stands to insect or disease outbreaks. The difference between the
alternatives is in type of treatment, number of acres treated, and amount of fuel removal. All
action alternatives would implement prescribed fire treatments in residual stands following
harvest and fuel removal. Many stands have too much existing dead material and live ladder
fuel to safely use prescribed burning without prior thinning and reduction.
Prescribed harvests will reduce the canopy by approximately 90 percent in clearcuts, 80 percent
in seed tree units, 70 percent in shelterwoods, and 50 -60 percent on thinned acres.
COVE/? TYPES
DIRECT EFFECTS - COVER TYPES
ALTERNATIVE A - NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
There are no direct effects to cover types associated with this alternative. Cover types in the
project area would continue to change without direct intervention of man. Changes through time
will vary depending on the intensity of disturbances such as fire, weather events, disease, and
insect epidemics.
ALTERNATIVE B
Timber harvest and fuel reduction treatments would occur on approximately 719 acres.
Approximately 290 acres would be clearcut, 221 acres would be shelterwood, 29 acres would
be seed tree, 44 acres would be commercially thinned, and 135 acres would be in roadside
salvage. Direct effects would include the following changes in cover types in the harvest and
fuel treatment areas.
Acres of herbaceous clearcut would increase by approximately 319 acres. This acreage would
decrease as trees become reestablished on these acres and canopy closure excludes
herbaceous ground cover. Most of these acres would move towards short-lived intolerant
(lodgepole pine) and mixed conifer cover types over time. Lodgepole pine cover type would be
reduced by approximately 214 acres. Mixed conifer cover types would be reduced by
approximately 143 acres.
ALTERNATIVE C
Timber harvest and fuel reduction treatments would occur on approximately 872 acres.
Approximately 354 acres would be clearcut, 246 acres would be shelterwood, 29 acres would
be seed tree, 92 acres would be commercially thinned, and 151 acres would be in roadside
salvage. Direct effects would include the following changes in cover types in the harvest fuel
treatment areas.
Acres of herbaceous clearcut would increase by approximately 383 acres. This acreage would
decrease as trees become reestablished on these acres and canopy closure excludes
herbaceous ground cover. Most of these acres would move towards short-lived intolerant
(lodgepole pine) and mixed conifer cover types over time. Lodgepole pine cover type would be
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reduced by 227 acres. Mixed conifer cover types would be reduced by approximately 209
acres.
ALTERNATIVE D
Timber harvest and fuel reduction treatments would occur on approximately 1217 acres.
Approximately 354 acres would be clearcut, 599 acres would be shelterwood, 29 acres would
be seed tree, 99 acres would be commercially thinned, and 137 acres would be in roadside
salvage. Direct effects would include the following changes in cover types in the harvest and
fuel treatment areas.
Acres of herbaceous clearcut would increase by approximately 383 acres. This acreage would
decrease as trees become reestablished on these acres and canopy closure excludes
herbaceous ground cover. Most of these acres would move towards short-lived intolerant
(lodgepole pine) and mixed conifer cover types over time. Lodgepole pine cover type would be
reduced by 227 acres. Mixed conifer cover types would be reduced by approximately 209
acres.
ALTERNATIVE E
Timber harvest and fuel reduction treatments would occur on approximately 500 acres.
Approximately 75 acres would be clearcut, 199 acres would be shelterwood, 19 acres would be
seed tree, 21 acres would be commercially thinned, and 138 acres would be in roadside
salvage. Direct effects would include the following changes in cover types in the harvest and
fuel treatment areas.
Acres of herbaceous clearcut would increase by approximately 94 acres. This acreage would
decrease as trees become reestablished on these acres and canopy closure excludes
herbaceous ground cover. Most of these acres would move towards short-lived intolerant
(lodgepole pine) and mixed conifer cover types over time. Lodgepole pine cover type would be
reduced by 81 acres. Mixed conifer cover types would be reduced by approximately 52 acres.
INDIRECT EFFECTS - COVER TYPES
ALTERNATIVE A - NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
Passive management is a conscious decision with short and long-term ecosystem
consequences. Preservation of dynamic ecosystems requires precisely timed, effectively
planned and implemented actions if desirable characteristics of those ecosystems are to remain
intact. Processes will take place whether at the hand of man or randomly (as under the 'no
action' alternative). Anticipated effects of processes that will occur with no human intervention
can provide a benchmark against which to measure effects of active management.
Forest cover types in the project area would shift toward mixed conifer (primarily grand fir and
subalpine fir) cover types. Susceptibility to insect attacks and root diseases affecting conifer
species would be expected to increase. Mountain pine beetle would continue to cause
extensive mortality to lodgepole and ponderosa pine in the project area until host depletion
results in a decline in the beetle population to endemic levels. As grand fir, Douglas-fir and
subalpine fir establish and dominate in stands previously dominated by lodgepole pine, these
species would be highly susceptible to root disease and insect attack, thus contributing to
increased fuel loading in these stands.
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Fire suppression would continue throughout the project area, allowing fuels to build up and
disrupting the natural fire disturbance pattern. Low severity ground fire would not occur in the
project area at the scale necessary to maintain ponderosa pine and western larch cover types.
At some point, fire would likely reestablish lodgepole pine dominance in areas where seed
sources exist and mineral soil is exposed, creating favorable seedbeds for conifer
reestablishment.
With current conifer stocking and growth rates, and elevated levels of insects and disease, the
"no action" alternative would not help attain Forest Plan goals nor meet the purpose and need of
this project. This alternative would not help achieve the Forest Plan recommendation of
maintaining forest stands dominated by relatively pest-resistant species to maintain a
sustainable condition. Under this alternative, no reduction would be made in total tree numbers
or stocking levels of pest-prone tree species. Improvements such as reduction in susceptible
species as well as enhanced growth and vigor of residual trees through timber harvest and
prescribed burning would not be made to enhance forest health and ecosystem sustainability.
Stocking levels of live trees would continue to increase while individual tree vigor would
decrease, increasing susceptibility to damaging insects and disease. Early serai, shade-
intolerant trees such as ponderosa pine and western larch would decrease in numbers while the
shade tolerant species Douglas fir and grand fir would increase. The shrub, forb, and grass
component of forest stands would continue to decline.
Forest stands where the principle species is Douglas fir, true fir, or Englemann spruce are highly
susceptible to outbreaks of defoliators such as western spruce budworm and Douglas fir
tussock moth. In recent years portions of the American River have experienced damaging
levels of hemlock lopper. The following factors make forest stands within the analysis area
particularly susceptible to defoliator attack.
Many forest stands are multi-storied. In a tussock moth, budworm or other defoliator infestation,
the larvae feed on new growth of larger trees. As the caterpillars mature, they drop off the tree
for a variety of reasons (wind, exhaustion of food supply, etc.). Landing on foliage suitable for
foraging (such as Douglas fir or grand fir) results in additional damage.
Older trees in many forest stands are not vigorous. Damage from defoliators, bark beetles, and
other insect pests could trigger eventual mortality.
The conifers in many of the forest stands in the American River Analysis Area are stagnant.
Many of these trees are particularly vulnerable to defoliator and bark beetle attack.
Root disease is apparent in portions of the planning area. During a defoliator or bark beetle
attack mortality is often first noticed in root centers because of the weakened state of the trees.
Precipitation in the 1990s was below average. Over several years, coupled with higher than
historical stocking levels, this can have a negative effect on stand growth. Trees become more
likely to sustain significant damage from insects during or following drought cycles. Forest
stands that have southeasterly to westerly aspects are particularly susceptible to problems
associated with drought because of the drying effects of direct sunlight and the prevailing winds
on these aspects.
Increases in other insects such as fir engraver and Douglas fir beetle often accompany a
defoliator outbreak. Insects are often at endemic levels in the forest, but become more
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apparent and increase in numbers as a defoliator infestation progresses. Often these insects
will "finish off" trees previously weakened by other pests or pathogens.
Any combination of the above listed factors could elevate the level of damage from defoliation to
mortality. Additional mortality would add to fuel loads already outside their historic range and
increase the risk of stand replacement wildfire.
ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, and E
Indirect effects would include enhancement of fire resistant ponderosa pine and western larch,
and regeneration of lodgepole pine cover types in the project area. Increased vigor and
resistance to damage from fire, insects and disease can be expected in other forest cover types
in the project area. Openings created through removal and prescribed burning would create
favorable conditions for establishment of fire resistant species such as ponderosa pine and
western larch, as well as lodgepole pine. Retention of ponderosa pine and western larch for
seed and shelter trees should increase the percentage of these species in future stands. In
areas usually dominated by lodgepole pine, this species would be expected to reestablish
rapidly from local seed sources. In areas where ponderosa pine and western larch have been
removed these species could be planted to assure reestablishment.
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS- COVER TYPES
ALTERNATIVE A - NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
Almost every year a wildfire starts somewhere in the American River watershed. Fire spread
depends on weather (temperature, wind, and moisture primarily), topography, and fuel. The
longer fire or fuel management is absent from an area the greater the total biomass quantity and
continuous fuel. When a wildfire starts these factors result in more intense fire behavior and
increased resistance to control. With the higher intensity and increased area of a fire, the more
vegetation that would be damaged or destroyed. This includes large, old trees, which may have
withstood natural intensity fires for centuries.
The implementation of Alternative A (No Action), with current forest conditions (live and dead
biomass) outside the historic natural range of variability, provides a greater risk of epidemic
stand loss to diseases and insects. In these finite systems of moisture and'sunlight only a
certain amount of live biomass can be supported per acre. Consequently, the more individual
trees on an acre, the smaller the allocation of water and the necessary elements per tree
resulting in subsequent lower vigor and growth per individual tree. Plants produce different
hormones and other chemicals when growing at various rates that affect the potential size of
these plants. Plants that receive more moisture and sunlight grow faster and have the potential
to achieve a larger size.
Insect infestation would increase with no management action. Forest stands under stress have
a higher potential to attract bark beetles. When trees are stressed they produce chemicals
which are natural attraction signals to bark beetles. Bark beetles are a natural thinning agent
and a necessary part of the ecosystem in creating habitat for certain wildlife species, and
reducing stress for the remaining live trees. With the increase in vulnerable food supplies
(stressed trees) insect populations can build to epidemic proportions. Epidemics of beetles can
destroy even the healthiest trees due to mass attacks. Bark beetles can also carry spores that
inoculate trees with saprophytic microorganisms that can weaken the bole and increases the
rate of bole snap and decomposition. This effect would cause many trees (snags) killed by
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beetles to fall to the ground in a relatively short time decreasing their value for cavity nesters,
and increasing the amount of fuel for high intensity wildfire.
The majority of forest stands proposed for treatment in the American River area are in a state of
relatively poor vigor. Trees are generally more susceptible to root rots and disease when at low
vigor. With the selection of Alternative A, tree vigor would continue to decline and would likely
result in more tree deaths attributable to root rot, especially the more susceptible grand fir and
Douglas fir. Parasitic plant dwarf mistletoe would also contribute to decline in Douglas-fir,
lodgepole pine, and western larch.
Conifers, especially shade-tolerant species such as Douglas fir and grand fir, would continue to
invade historically open forest stands and meadows. Grasses, forbs and shrubs would become
impoverished in densely stocked forest stands. Gene pools of various species of plants,
especially those dependent on frequent fire regimes, would decline and become less viable.
Reduced acres of lodgepole pine and ponderosa pine cover types can be expected in time due
to mountain pine beetle induced mortality and forest succession favoring establishment of
climax species. Western larch cover type can also be expected to decrease over the long term.
Mixed conifer cover type could be expected to increase.
ALTERNATIVE B
Implementation would affect forest cover types on 584 acres in the drainage. Other activities
and ongoing hazard tree removal and firewood cutting also have potential to affect forest cover
types on additional acres in the drainage.
ALTERNATIVE C
Implementation would affect forest cover types on 721 acres in the drainage. Other activities in
the drainage and ongoing hazard tree removal and firewood cutting also have potential effects
to forest cover types on additional acres in the drainage.
ALTERNATIVE D
Implementation would affect forest cover types on 1080 acres in the drainage. . Other activities
and ongoing hazard tree removal and firewood cutting also have potential to affect forest cover
types on additional acres in the drainage.
ALTERNATIVE E
Implementation would affect forest cover types on 362 acres in the drainage. . Other activities
and ongoing hazard tree removal and firewood cutting also have potential to affect forest cover
types on additional acres in the drainage.
IRREVERSIBLE OR IRRETRIEVABLE EFFECTS - COVER TYPES
There are no irreversible or irretrievable effects to cover types associated with any of the
alternatives. All action Alternatives would temporarily affect herbaceous cover types, short-lived
fire susceptible, and mixed conifer cover types. However, vegetation normally present in those
types would reclaim those areas though forest succession.
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STRUCTURE
DIRECT EFFECTS - SIZE CLASS
ALTERNATIVE A - NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
There are no direct effects to size classes associated with this alternative.
ALTERNATIVE B
Direct effects to tree size classes would include an increase in seedling/sapling size classes on
approximately 319 acres in clearcut and seed tree areas. Small through medium size tree
classes would be reduced on 236 acres. Large tree (15 + inch DBH) size classes would be
reduced on 84 acres. All trees greater than 21 inches DBH would remain except for incidental
removal for temporary road construction and line corridors. Figure 3.12 displays direct effects of
implementation of Alternative B to tree size classes in the project area.
ALTERNATIVE C
Direct effects to tree size classes would include an increase in seedling/sapling size classes on
approximately 383 acres in clearcut and seed tree areas. Small through medium size tree class
acres would be reduced on approximately 284 acres. Large tree (15 + inch DBH) size classes
would be reduced on 100 acres. All trees greater than 21 inches DBH would remain except for
incidental removal for temporary road construction and line corridors. Figure 3.12 displays
direct effects Alternative C to tree size classes in the project area.
ALTERNATIVE D
Direct effects to tree size classes include an increase in seedling/sapling size classes on
approximately 383 acres in clearcut and seed tree areas. Pole through medium size tree class
acres would be reduced on 283 acres Large tree (15 + inch DBH) size classes would be
reduced on 100 acres. All trees greater than 21 inches DBH would remain except for incidental
removal for temporary road construction and line corridors. Figure 3.12 displays direct effects of
implementation of Alternative D to tree size classes in the project area.
ALTERNATIVE E
Direct effects to tree size classes include an increase in seedling/sapling size classes on
approximately 93 acres in clearcut and seed tree areas. Pole through medium size tree class
acres would be reduced on 60 acres. Large tree (15 + inch DBH) size classes would be
reduced on 33 acres. All trees greater than 21 inches DBH would remain except for incidental
removal for temporary road construction and line corridors. Figure 3.24 below displays direct
effects of implementation of Alternative E to tree size classes in the project area.
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FIGURE 3.24: AMERICAN RIVER SIZE CLASS BY ALTERNATIVE
D
8
DJ
American River Portion
Size Class by Alternative
D Small Tree (5-9.9 in.
DBH)
P Shrub Dominated
D Seedling/Sapling Tree
(< 5 in. DBH)
I Medium Tree (1O-
14.9 in. DBH)
D Large/Very Large
Tree (>= 15 in. DBH)
ALT B ALT C ALT D
Alternative Acres
TABLE 3.130: AMERICAN RIVER PROPORTION OF EXISTING SIZE CLASS
SIZE CLASS
Large/Very Large Tree (>= 15 in. DBH)
Medium Tree (10-14.9 in. DBH)
Seedling/Sapling Tree (< 5 in. DBH)
Shrub Dominated
Small Tree (5-9.9 in. DBH)
ALT A
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
ALTB
99%
96%
2893%
100%
96%
ALTC
99%
95%
3441%
100%
95%
ALTD
99%
95%
3441%.
100%
95%
ALTE
100%
99%
921%
100%
99%
INDIRECT EFFECTS - SIZE CLASS
ALTERNATIVE A - NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
Size class diversity would temporarily increase as shade tolerant grand fir and subalpine fir
continue to establish in stands in the project area. Small and medium trees would dominate
creating continuous fuel ladders, increasing the potential for severe fire. Large fire resistant
ponderosa pine and western larch could eventually become extirpated due to stress induced by
competition for water and nutrients, lack of suitable conditions for regeneration, or severe fire.
In time, there is a high probability high intensity, stand replacement fire would occur, resulting in
reestablishment of single size class stands in burned areas.
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ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, AND E
Indirect effects associated with harvest and fuel reduction treatments would be increased
growth and vigor, as well as resistance to damage from fire to remaining trees. Remaining trees
in all size classes would benefit through reduced competition for sunlight, water, and nutrients.
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS - SIZE CLASS
ALTERNATIVE A - NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
There are no cumulative effects to size classes in the American River Drainage associated with
the 'no action' alternative..
ALTERNATIVE B
Size classes would be affected on approximately 319 acres (.5 percent) of the American
drainage.
ALTERNATIVE C
Size classes would be affected on approximately 383 acres (.7 percent) of the American
drainage.
ALTERNATIVE D
Size classes would be affected on approximately 383 acres (.7 percent) of the American
drainage.
ALTERNATIVE E
Size classes would be affected on approximately 94 acres (.02 percent) of the American
drainage.
IRREVERSIBLE OR IRRETRIEVABLE EFFECTS - SIZE CLASS
There are no irreversible or irretrievable effects to size classes associated with any of the
alternatives. Alternatives B, C, D, and E would have some effects on size classes in the project
area, though this would be temporary.
STAND DENSITY
DIRECT EFFECTS - STAND DENSITY
ALTERNATIVE A - NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
There are no direct effects to stand densities associated with this alternative.
ALTERNATIVE B
Direct effects would be reduced stand densities on approximately 719 acres in the project area.
Stand densities would be reduced approximately 90 percent on clearcut acres, 80 percent on
seed tree, 70 percent on shelterwood, 50-60 percent on thinning acres, and 10 percent on
roadside salvage acres.
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ALTERNATIVE C
Direct effects would be reduced stand densities on approximately 872 acres in the project area.
Stand densities would be reduced approximately 90 percent on clearcut acres, 80 percent on
seed tree, 70 percent on shelterwood, 50-60 percent on thinning acres, and 10 percent on
roadside salvage acres.
ALTERNATIVE D
Direct effects would be reduced stand densities on approximately 1,217 acres in the project
area. Stand densities would be reduced approximately 90 percent on clearcut acres, 80 percent
on seed tree, 70 percent on shelterwood, 50-60 percent on thinning acres, and 10 percent on
roadside salvage acres.
ALTERNATIVE E
Direct effects would be reduced stand densities on approximately 500 acres in the project area.
Stand densities would be reduced approximately 90 percent on clearcut acres, 80 percent on
seed tree, 70 percent on shelterwood, 50-60 percent on thinning acres, and 10 percent on
roadside salvage acres.
INDIRECT EFFECTS - STAND DENSITY
ALTERNATIVE A - NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
Stand densities would increase in the short term as lodgepole stands are replaced by grand fir
and subalpine fir. Increased stand densities would result in increased fuel loading and potential
for intense fire activity. Barring fire, insect or disease epidemics, stand densities would
decrease as stands mature and competition results in stem exclusion.
ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, AND E
Increased vigor and resistance to damage from fire, insects and disease would be expected for
all tree species in the harvest and fuel reduction areas. Reduced densities, and underburning
would create openings and favorable conditions for establishment of fire resistant serai species
such as ponderosa pine and western larch. In areas usually dominated by lodgepole pine, this
species would be expected to reestablish rapidly from local seed sources. In areas where
ponderosa pine and western larch have been reduced, these species could be planted to
assure reestablishment. Increased potential for wind damage may occur in some areas.
However this would be minimized through project design to protect remaining trees in those
areas.
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS - STAND DENSITY
ALTERNATIVE A - NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
There are no cumulative effects to stand densities associated with this alternative.
ALTERNATIVE B
Stand densities would be reduced on approximately 719 acres in the drainage. This would
change stand densities in approximately 1.2 percent of the drainage
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ALTERNATIVE C
Stand densities would be reduced on approximately 872 acres in the drainage. This would
change stand densities in approximately 1.5 percent of the drainage.
ALTERNATIVE D
Stand densities would be reduced on approximately 1217 acres in the drainage. This would
change stand densities in approximately 2.1 percent of the drainage.
ALTERNATIVE E
Stand densities would be reduced on approximately 500 acres in the drainage. This would
change stand densities in approximately .8 percent of the drainage.
IRREVERSIBLE OR IRRETRIEVABLE EFFECTS - SIZE CLASS
There are no irreversible or irretrievable effects to stand densities associated with any of the
alternatives. Alternatives B, C, D, and E would reduce stand densities in the project area,
though this effect would be temporary.
3.10.1.2. INDICATOR 2 - DISTURBANCE PATTERNS
INSECTS AND DISEASE
MOUNTAIN PINE BEETLE
Mountain pine beetle is a native bark beetle with a one- to two-year life cycle that is the prime
insect agent affecting lodgepole pine ecosystems. Adults select green trees of sufficient size
and phloem thickness to nourish their larvae. The pitch tubes on the bole'and boring dust at the
base of the tree are evidence of beetle entry. Beetles are subject to mortality from parasites,
predators such as woodpeckers, cold winters, drying of the pine following infection, and resin
from the host tree. Infestations tend to occur at 20 to 40 year intervals, depending on the age,
size, and density of lodgepole stands (Cole and Amman, 1980). A prior beetle outbreak
occurred in the 1980s in American and Crooked River, followed by salvage and logging. This
approach to beetle treatment favors rapid reestablishment of lodgepole pine and renewal of the
cycle. Salvage, thinning and prescribed fire, augmented by planting beetle- and fire-resistant
species could help interrupt some continuity of dense lodgepole pine and slightly reduce
susceptibility to this cycle. Thinning can help reduce susceptibility to mountain pine beetle
through both physiological response of the remaining trees and changed microclimate within the
stand (Mitchell, 1994).
Lodgepole pine is characteristic of interior montane basins like American and Crooked River
where cold air impoundment favors establishment of the species. Much of the lodgepole in
American and Crooked River regenerated after fires between 1870-1898. These trees have
become highly susceptible to mountain pine beetle because the majority of these trees have
reached an age and size suitable for beetle reproduction. If not for fire suppression, landscape
patterns may have taken a different course of development and large contiguous areas of
susceptible lodgepole may not have developed.
Mountain pine beetle infestations can kill 30 to over 90 percent of trees 5 inches or larger in a
stand, but trees 8 inches or larger are preferred. After each infestation, residual lodgepole pine
and shade tolerant species like grand fir increase their growth and the trend is toward uneven-
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age stands with multiple canopy layers and shade tolerant species. This has been observed in
response to the 1980s epidemic in American and Crooked River. In mixed lodgepole and
ponderosa pine stands, beetles may attack both lodgepole and ponderosa pine.
WESTERN BALSAM BARK BEETLE
This beetle is a native wood-boring insect that attacks subalpine fir, and rarely Engelmann
spruce (Garbutt, 1992, as cited in Natural Resources of Canada, 2003). In American and
Crooked River they have been identified in the upper elevation spruce-fir stands, but numbers of
affected trees are currently relatively low. Their successional function is to kill old subalpine fir,
favoring establishment of new subalpine fir. This may not change Cover Types, but can
contribute to development of more uneven-age structure, and fuel accumulations. It is
estimated that this beetle is at endemic levels and will remain so unless environmental factors
change significantly.
BALSAM WOOLLYADELGID
This is a sucking insect introduced from Europe that is now found in the American and Crooked
River watershed in a few areas, but the extent to which it may increase in population and activity
is not known. Stem attacks can lead to eventual tree mortality. Crown attack can ultimately
affect bud formation and upward growth and can also lead to tree mortality. This insect more
often attacks young trees so its successional effect is to reduce stand density and reduce
vertical canopy layering by affecting understory fir. Cold winters control populations, while warm
summers favor their survival.
DOUGLAS FIR BEETLE
This is a native bark beetle that is not typically very aggressive and usually attacks wind thrown,
fire-damaged trees or trees weakened by other pathogens or drought (Hagle et a/., 1987,
Schmjtz and Gibson, 1996). Where Douglas fir occurs with early serai larch or pine, beetle
activity will help maintain the early serai species. On grand fir and subalpine fir habitat types,
like those that dominate American and Crooked River, Douglas fir beetle activity creates
openings where more shade-tolerant species like grand fir will grow and push the stand more
quickly toward late serai conditions and uneven aged stand structure (Hagle et a/., 2000).
Observed pockets of Douglas fir beetle in the watershed have been small and occur in areas
where past fires were not stand replacing so that large old Douglas fir remain. Many of these
pockets are associated with old growth and will provide large Douglas fir snags.
Because of extensive fire in the late 1800s and subsequent harvest, large Douglas firs in dense
stands are not abundant in the watershed so the potential for extensive beetle outbreaks is
relatively low.
ROOT DISEASES
Root diseases are fungi that can affect all sizes, ages and species of tree (Hagle et a/., 1987,
Hagle et a/., 2000). In the watershed, grand fir and Douglas-fir are most highly susceptible and
the prevailing root pathogens affecting them are armillaria and annosus root rots. With the loss
of lodgepole pine to mountain pine beetle, grand fir and subalpine fir will increase, and root
disease will likely also increase. However this change is not toward conditions that are outside
historic ranges. Where Douglas-fir has encroached on ponderosa pine stands, these will be
more susceptible to root disease.
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Fire and root disease appear to have contributed historically to the maintenance of larch in
mixed conifer stands. Without fire, root disease is unlikely to sufficiently limit grand fir to keep
larch from being eventually eliminated.
Root disease has probably increased a small amount in average severity. The older stands
become and the more they shift toward grand fir, the more severe root disease will be. Root
disease may recover a more important role if lodgepole dominance is reduced and Douglas-fir
and grand fir increase. It will affect canopy cover, Cover Types, size, and age distribution of
trees, and timber productivity. The effects will be to create forest openings, favoring shrubs and
regeneration of more susceptible grand fir or increased dominance by less susceptible species.
Over the long term, without fife or harvest to sustain less susceptible species, more tree species
will become susceptible.
BLISTER RUST
Virtually no western white pine or whitebark pine has been inventoried in the drainage so the
potential for blister rust is low. The historic potential for these tree species appears to have
been very low also.
DWARF MISTLETOE
Dwarf mistletoes are parasitic plants that extract water and nutrients from living conifer trees
(Hagle et a/., 2000). Lodgepole pine dwarf mistletoe is the species most active fn the American
and Crooked River watershed, because of the prevalence of this cover type. Initial effects are
to reduce stand density and size dominance within the affected species and size class.
Successional effects where mistletoe is severe are to accelerate succession toward grand fir or
subalpine fir. Fires that kill host species also reduce mistletoe.
Overall, dwarf mistletoes affect a relatively small proportion of the American and Crooked River
project area. Compared to mountain pine beetle, the effects of dwarf mistletoe in lodgepole
pine are likely to be minor. The thinning effect of mountain pine beetle will reduce dwarf
mistletoe on lodgepole pine in the American and Crooked River area.
3.10.1.3. INDICATOR 3 - RARE PLANTS
SCOPE OF ANALYSIS
Proposed activities have the potential to affect threatened, endangered or sensitive plant
species. The effect on potentially suitable habitat and existing occurrences of sensitive plants
are the primary indicators of this analysis. Direct and indirect effects are analyzed within the
context of the proposed activities, while cumulative effects are analyzed within the watersheds
as a whole.
REGULATORY FRAMEWORK
Threatened and endangered species are designated under the Endangered Species Act. It is
the policy of Congress that all Federal departments shall seek to conserve endangered and
threatened species and shall utilize their authorities in furtherance of this purpose (ESA
1531.2b). According to U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service list #1-4-04-SP-612 (letter dated
9/01/2004), four plants listed as Threatened or Proposed Threatened may occur within the
geographic extent of the Nez Perce National Forest: These plants include Macfarlane's four-
o'clock (Mirabilis macfarlanei), water howellia (Howellia aquatilis), Ute ladies'-tresses orchid
(Spiranthes diluvialis) and Spalding's catchfly (Silene spaldingii). According to the 90-Day
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Species list update, the four plants, including their habitat, mentioned above are not found on
the Red River District. Therefore a biological assessment for the project proposal is not
necessary.
Sensitive species are defined in the Forest Service Manual (FSM 2670.5) as "those plant and
animal species identified by the Regional Forester for which population viability is a concern as
evidenced by significant current or predicted downward trends in population numbers density
or habitat capability that reduce a species/existing distribution." In FSM 2670.22 management
direction for sensitive species is in part, to ensure that species do not become'threatened or
endangered, because of Forest Service actions and to maintain viable populations of all native
species. The most recent update to the sensitive species list was published on October 28
2004. The Forest Service must evaluate impacts to sensitive species through a bioloaica'l
evaluation. a
ANALYSIS METHODS
Pre-field work included review of existing records and forest habitat data. Individual species
requirements were summarized and used in selections of modeling criteria to determine which
species or corresponding habitat may occur in the project area. The basic criteria used were
Habitat Type Groups (HTG) and existing vegetation layer. HTG are broad groupings of
potential vegetation based on similar environmental conditions and ecological processes The
proposed project area contains several Habitat Type Groups (HTG) used for effects analysis
that contain the micro-features that are important to the rare and sensitive plants discussed
below. These types include: Dry Douglas Fir and Grand Fir (HTG 2), Cool and Dry Grand Fir
(HTG 3), Moist Grand Fir (HTG 4), and Cool and moist Subalpine Fir and Spruce (HTG 7).
These vegetation layers were grouped into similar forest habitats into functional categories
based upon existing vegetation, vegetation potential, moisture and temperature characteristics
These elements were useful to match species to general habitats found in the project area In
some cases, habitat grouping only provided an indication of the presences of microsites the
plant requires.
Using GIS, these habitat groupings important to sensitive plants along with known populations
were mapped for the project area. Locations of the proposed activities were evaluated against
suitable habitat groupings and existing sensitive plant occurrences to determine the impact the
actions may have on the suitable habitat and existing populations.
Based on the results of existing records, fieldwork, and habitat modeling, direct and indirect are
discussed for each species. Direct impacts include timber harvest, prescribed fire, road
construction and restoration activities. Indirect impacts for some species may include the
expansion of weeds and the mitigating treatments of these infestations or changes to canopies
that affect micro-conditions. Cumulative effects are the overall impacts to species from present
and reasonably foreseeable future projects within the watersheds. Historically such impacts on
individual species was not measured or noted. However, the past impacts on general habitat
condition can be qualified and matched to species dependant on a particular habitat. For this
reason the Habitat Type Groups are used in part for the cumulative effects discussion.
The following analysis section incorporates both American River drainage and Crooked River
drainage.
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EXISTING CONDITION
SENSITIVE SPECIES
According to element occurrence records from the Idaho Conservation Data Center (ICDC,
2002) and the Northern Region Sensitive Plant list dated October 28, 2004, three designated
sensitive plant species occur in the project area. These are: Payson's milkvetch (Astragalus
paysonii), Idaho barren strawberry (Waldsteinia idahoensis) and deerfern (Blechnum spicant).
A fourth sensitive plant species, evergreen kittentail (Synthyris platycarpa) is known from areas
adjacent to the project area.
The Northern Region sensitive species list was recently revised, effective October 28, 2004.
Candystick (Allotropa virgata) was dropped from the regional list because there is no longer a
concern for population viability. The effects analysis for candystick was maintained between the
draft and final EIS because candystick remains a locally important plant for the Nez Perce
National Forest.
Field surveys during the 2003 field season found additional occurrences of candystick (Allotropa
virgata) and Idaho barren strawberry (Waldsteinia idahoensis).
In addition, Corydalis caseana hastata, a regional endemic can occasionally be found along
small streams and wetlands. Carex californica, a relatively rare sedge, is scattered in the upper
montane grasslands along the Anderson Butte ridge.
The following table includes the sensitive plants found within the watersheds and those that may
have potential habitat in the project area. Sensitive species not included are not known or
suspected to occur in the area, nor is suitable habitat present. Potential habitat is based
primarily upon Habitat Type Groups (HTGs) and existing vegetation, but most species have at
least some more refined parameters that aid in identification of suitable habitats. The acres of
suitable habitat given are for the project area only. Discussions of suitable habitat on a
watershed level in relation to this and other projects are found in the Cumulative Effects section.
TABLE 3.131 - KNOWN AND POTENTIAL SENSITIVE PLANTS WITHIN THE PROJECT AREA.
Common and Latin Name
Candystick
Allotropa virgata
Payson's milkvetch
Astragalus paysonii
Deerfern
Blechnum spicant
Idaho barren strawberry
Waldsteinia idahoensis
Botrychium lanceolatum var
lanceolatum
Botrychium lineare
Botrychium minganense
Botrychium pinnatum
Botrychium simplex
PRESENCE
Known
Known
Known
Known
Potential
Habitat/Community Type
Lodgepole with beargrass on well-
drained infertile soils. Often on or
near the ridge.
Openings/gaps in mixed grand fir
and Douglas fir forests.
Moist riparian forests.
Meadow edges and open forests of
moist/cool grand fir, subalpine fir and
cedar.
Shaded moist sites under various
conifers; dry to moist meadows.
Elevation
(ft)
5,000-
6,500
4,000-
5900
2,500-
5,000
3,000-
5,500
1,500-
6,000
Potential
Habitat
11,800
5,000
3,000
15,000
3,000
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Common and Latin Name
Leafless bug-on-a-stick
Buxbaumia aphylla
Green bug-on-a-stick
Buxbaumia viridis
Clustered lady's-slipper
Cypripedium fasciculatum
Evergreen kittentail
Synthyris platycarpa
PRESENCE
Potential
Potential
Potential
Potential
Habitat/Community Type
Open parklands on moist acidic soil
in upper montane to subalpine zones
Moist grand fir or cedar forests on
large decayed logs and ash soils.
Partial shade of warm and moist
cedar, grand fir or Douglas fir.
Forest openings, partial shade of
grand fir mosaic. Sometimes in
cedar and old growth.
Elevation
(ft)
Above
5000
1,500-
6,000
1,600-
4,800
4,200-
6,000
Potential
Habitat
3000
18,000
13,500
7,000
CANDYSTICK (ALLOTROPA VIRGATA)
This species is a coastal disjunct that occurs in the Northern Region in central Idaho and
adjacent Montana. On the Nez Perce National Forest, candystick inhabits sites with mature
(80-100 years) lodgepole pine stands over a beargrass/grouse whortleberry or huckleberry
understory with little climax conifer regeneration. Physical characteristics are generally well-
drained soils on drier, south facing ridges between 4,000 and 7,000 feet elevation (Lichthardt
and Mancuso, 1991). These parameters can vary slightly across its geographic range.
Candystick is a mycotrophic plant that obtains its carbohydrates from a mycorrhizal fungus
associated with its roots (Lichthardt, 1995a). The fungal mycelium is shared with a
photosynthesizing plant that indirectly supplies nutrients to the mycotroph via the fungus. In this
case the photosynthesizing plant is lodgepole pine. For this reason, candystick is limited to
forest habitats in which lodgepole pine are dominant or in a few cases at least a significant
component.
The Conservation Strategy for Allotropa virgata (Candystick) (Lichthardt, 1995a) was written to
provide recommendations for the management of forest lands that support or adjoin populations
of this locally rare species. This strategy categorizes occurrences into landscape-scale units,
which are prioritized by the quality and extent of habitat, population size and geographic
location. Populations in the Conservation Strategy category 4 contain scattered individuals that
are not in critical geographic locations, and are in suboptimum habitat. General management
recommendations for category 3-4 occurrences are to monitor impacts to subpopulations and to
manage for lodgepole pine over the long-term.
In the Crooked River watershed, candystick occurrences appear to be scattered in the eastern
portion of the project area. Populations can be very small ranging from one stem to dozens of
clumps spread over several acres. There are 20 occurrences documented in the American
River and Crooked River Watersheds. Eighteen of the 20 are found in the Crooked River
Watershed.
Potential habitat was modeled using habitat type groups 3 and 9 that contained existing
vegetation of mixed conifer or lodgepole pine between an elevation of 5000-6500 feet.
Approximately 11,800 acres (35 percent) of suitable habitat are found in the project area. Much
of this area would not be considered suitable habitat for candystick, but could include microsites
that may support appropriate habitat conditions.
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PAYSON'S MILKVETCH (ASTRAGALUS PAYSONII)
Payson's milkvetch has an unusual range limited to western Wyoming and north central Idaho.
On the Nez Perce National Forest it is predominantly found across the American River, Crooked
River and Red River watersheds. It is also found occasionally scattered from the breaks of the
Selway River to the Breaks of the Salmon River. The plant prefers early serai habitats, which
are maintained by fire and other stochastic events and by human-caused disturbances such as
timber harvest. Lorain (1990) noted that populations are most prevalent in the grand fir habitat
types, which are currently dominated by other serai species. In general the species seems to
be sparsely spread through open forests. Upon disturbance that results in soil exposure and
opening of the canopy, the species blooms from the seed bank. Historically the primary
disturbance would have been wildfire. The development of forest openings and gaps is an
important factor in maintaining Payson's milkvetch populations across broad geographic areas.
According to Idaho Conservation Data Center (ICDC, 2002) records, there are six occurrences
of Payson's milkvetch in the American River watershed within Box Sing Creek, Flint Creek, Big
Elk Creek, and Upper American River drainages. These populations are generally small in
extent and made up of a few individuals. Most occur in forest openings or edges of logging
units, usually on granitic soils.
Potential habitat for Payson's milkvetch within'the project area would be characterized as
openings and burn areas within HTG2, HTG3 and the dryer end of HGT4 below 5900 feet
elevation. Approximately 5,000 acres of suitable habitat is scattered across the project area.
DEERFERN (BLECHNUM SPICANT)
Deerfern is a coastal disjunct species of maritime climates in north Idaho. It is generally found
in mid-elevation, moist, mineral rich soils of shaded western red cedar and western hemlock
habitats. Rarely the species occurs in wet areas of other habitat series (Blake and Ebrahimi,
1992). It has a strong affinity for draws and riparian areas where it prefers the slope above and
adjacent to the wettest plant communities. It rarely forms a part of these wet communities, but
is usually associated with the slightly less mesic maidenhair fern and wild ginger.
One population of Deerfern occurs in the East Fork of American River and one population is
found in the Red River Watershed. Both sites are found in moist microsites associated with
riparian bottoms within moist grand-fir habitat (HTG 4) with existing vegetation of mixed conifer
or lodgepole pine.
Potential habitat within the project area could be generally described as riparian areas in moist
Grand-fir (HTG 4) below 5,500 feet elevation.
LANCE-LEAF MOONWORT (BOTRYCHIUM LANCEOLATUM), LINEAR-LEAVED MOONWORT (fi.
UNBARE), MlNGAN MOONWORT (B. MINGANENSE), NORTHERN MOONWORT (8. PINNATUM),
LEAST MOONWORT (B. SIMPLEX)
Little is known about the moonworts on the Nez Perce National Forest. Six occurrences have
been found on the Forest, all above 3,000 ft. elevation. Throughout the west general habitat for
moonworts varies widely from dry meadows, grass/forb openings, lodgepole pine and
Englemann spruce to dry grand fir. In northern Idaho most moonworts are associated with
riparian areas and moist sites under old western red cedar (Mousseaux, 1996). In general the
best habitats are typically older, moist forests and dry meadows. In 2003, an occurrence of
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least moonwort was in found the Red River watershed in a slightly raised, dry portion of a
meadow. Grasses and woods strawberry dominate the ground cover.
All Botrychium species are believed to be obligatory dependent on mycorrhizal relationships.
The subterranean generation depends on fungus for nutrients, while the roots of the above
ground generation lack root hairs and probably depend on the fungus for absorption of water
and minerals (Chadde and Kudray, 2001). Little is known about the mycorrhizal fungi
associated with Botrychium species other than their presence with the two generations.
The mycotrophic condition is important to the ecology of Botrychium species in several ways.
Nutrition supplied through a fungal symbiont may allow the ferns to withstand repeated
herbivory, prolonged dormancy, or growth in dense shade (Kelly, 1994, Montgomery, 1990).
The fungal/fern relationship has implications for the occurrence of genus communities, the
distribution of the species across the landscape, and associations with particular vascular
moonworts and strawberries. Botrychiums may exist underground for many years before an
above ground plant develops.
The variable habitats and mycorrhizal associations make predictions on suitable habitat
extremely difficult. Warm and moist forest floors along riparian areas, dry meadows and
grass/forb openings have the highest probability of containing suitable habitat for moonworts
Potential habitat was model from warm and moist habitat type groups and lower slope position,
below 6000 ft elevation. This analysis revealed approximately 3000 acres (8 percent) of
potential habitat in the project area.
LEAFLESS BUG-ON-A-STICK (BUXBAUMIA APHYLLA)
Leafless bug-on-a-stick is locally rare, but widely distributed moss in the northern hemisphere
across much of Canada, northern United States and Europe (Crum and Anderson, 1981). It has
been described as a pioneer species of disturbed, acid, sandy or clayey soils, often on the
banks of roads or woodland trails, sometimes on old logs or stumps, exposed or in partial shade
in moist forests and also dry, open woods, often successional to fire (Crum and Anderson
1981).
There is a single population known in Idaho, which is on the Nez Perce National Forest. The
site is described as being on moist soil at approximately 5,000 feet elevation in open parkland of
lodgepole and subalpine fir. The site is in a sheltered position, shaded by the micro-topography
and herbaceous layer, rather than the trees (Lake, 1999). Suitable habitat may occur anywhere
there is open soil in the middle to higher elevations, but most of this potential habitat would be in
the mountain parklands on the edge of the project area.
GREEN-BUG-ON-A-STICK (BUXBAUMIA VIRIDIS)
This diminutive moss is found across the Pacific Northwest and Northern Rockies, but is
relatively rare to uncommon across its range. In north central Idaho it is found at widely
scattered locations on moist sites under mid-to-late serai conifer forests. On the Nez Perce
National Forest occurrences are predominately under moist grand-fir canopy on large logs in
advanced stages of decay, but may also be found on moist mineral soil derived from volcanic
ash.
The most common habitat types for this species in the American River and Crooked River
watersheds would be grand fir/arrowleaf groundsel (Abies grandis/Senecio triangularis), grand
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fir/bead lily (Abies grandis/Clintonia uniflora) and grand fir/wild ginger (Abies grandis/Asarum
caudatum) of Habitat Type Group 4 (Warm and Moist Grand Fir) up to an elevation of about
6,000 feet. Substrate availability and distribution and shade (humidity levels) are important
habitat elements (Laaka, 1992). Though it may occur in microsites of suitable conditions
anywhere in the moist forest, the large majority of desirable habitat would be along forested
riparian areas and in mesic old growth forest.
Potential habitat was determined using moist or wet forest habitat groups 4, 7, and 8 (grand fir,
subalpine fir) and RHCAs below 6,000 feet elevation. Following this model, there are 18,500
acres of potentially suitable habitat in the project area.
CLUSTERED LADY'S-SUPPER (CYPRIPEDIUM FASCICULATUM)
Clustered lady's slipper is a long-lived orchid. It is suspected that the plant can remain dormant
underground for an extended period of time. Vegetative plants may live for many years before
reaching reproductive maturity and like other orchids it may develop an association with
mycorrhizal fungi. The small seed size and lack of endosperm indicate that fungal association
is probably necessary for germination and establishment (Lichthardt, 1995b). This may be an
important factor in controlling local distribution.
Typically, clustered lady's slipper grows below a closed canopy in warm, moist sites under a
mid-to-late serai conifer community. Where the overstory canopy is more open, clustered lady's
slipper is found under a secondary canopy of hardwood shrubs or pole size conifers. Potential
habitat for this species varies widely throughout its range. In north central Idaho, most
occurrences are in western red cedar habitat types, but a significant number of populations are
in assorted Douglas fir and grand fir habitats. Currently, no unique habitat parameter is known
that allows biologists to predict future occurrences with more than a very general specificity
(Greenlee, 1997).
Broad habitat parameters that include warm Douglas fir and warm and moist grand fir (HTG 2 to
HTG 4) below 5000 feet that have never had significant disturbance should include most
potential habitat. This model indicates there are 13,000 acres of potential habitat, which
represents 38 percent of the project area.
EVERGREEN KITTENTAIL (SYNTHYRIS PLATYCARPA)
Evergreen kittentails has a very narrow geographic range, being endemic to north-central Idaho,
where it occurs mostly in moist grand fir forests (Habitat Type Group 4), but may also occur in
cooler western red cedar habitats. The range of evergreen kittentails is strongly associated with
the occurrence of the grand fir mosaic, which is a zone of mid-elevation forest of mainly grand
fir, interspersed with alder and bracken fern glades. It is considered an indicator of this
ecosystem (Crawford, 1980). Occupied sites may be both mature closed-canopy forest and
forest openings, such as alder or fern glades, harvest units and roadsides (Lichthardt, 1999).
An existing occurrence can be found in the Grand-fir mosaic zone of the upper American River
Watershed.
Suitable habitat in the upper American River Watershed is represented by 7000 acres of Grand-
fir mosaic zone of Moist Grand fir Habitat Type Group (HTG 4) between 4200 and 6000 feet
elevation.
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IDAHO BARREN STRAWBERRY (WALDSTEINIA IDAHOENSIS)
Idaho barren strawberry is regional endemic to north-central Idaho and west-central Montana
with populations occurring from the South Fork of the Clearwater River, north to the Coeur
D'Alene River. Within this small geographic range it is found in relatively few local areas where
it can form extensive populations. The upper South Fork of the Clearwater River including
American River, Crooked River and Red River can support relatively large populations.
Idaho barren strawberry has wide ecological amplitude (Crawford, 1980) and is found in
predominately grand fir/wild ginger and grand fir/queencup bead lily habitat types. However, it
also may occur in other grand fir habitats (HTG3 and HTG 4) as well as western red cedar (HTG
5). Elevations generally vary from 2,000 to 5,000 feet (CDC 2002). Cool, moist micro-sites
within these general habitats are most favorable for its development (Crawford, 1980).
Waldsteinia is tolerant of shade but responds favorably to increased light (Crawford, 1980). It
can be found growing in stands with open canopies, and transition zones between riparian
meadows and conifer forests.
Most local occurrences are large and loosely defined. ICDC records currently recognize 12
occurrences scattered across the American River and Crooked River Watersheds. The
populations are found in dry to moist Grand-fir habitat type groups (HGT 3, HTG4) with existing
vegetation of mix conifer to lodgepole pine. All the occurrences are below 5,000 ft.
Close modeling of suitable habitat for this species is difficult due to the broad habitat
parameters. However, the general criterion given above occurs across 15,000 acres, which
represents 44 percent of the project area.
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
ALTERNATIVE A- NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
There will be no management activities under Alternative A that would alter existing canopy
cover and stand structure. However, changes in stand structure would be expected, some of
which would alter habitats that are suitable for some sensitive plant species. In lodgepole cover
types, extensive forest opening may occur as the beetle infestation continues. In more mixed
conifer forest types succession will continue to progress resulting in a decline in size and
frequency of small openings and forest gaps.
The decrease in forest canopy in lodgepole forests will cause a decline in candystick, but may
provide for future habitat as these forests are reinitiated. It is not certain however, how the
species may respond to severe fire that may damage soils. The increased intensity of wild fire
is possible due to the increased fuel build up in these areas from the beetle mortality. In mixed
conifer forests advancing succession would cause a decline in species that require an earlier
stage of succession such as Payson's milkvetch and Idaho barren strawberry, but would
improve habitat conditions for later serai species such as moonworts, deerfern, clustered lady's-
slipper and green-bug-on-a-stick.
ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, AND E (ACTION ALTERNATIVES)
Fifty to seventy-eight percent of the proposed activity units were surveyed in 2003. New
occurrences of Idaho barren strawberry (Waldsteinia idahoensis) and candystick (Allotropa
virgata) were documented. No other sensitive plants were found in the project area. A number
of candy stick occurrences were found within proposed harvest units.
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Decommissioning and reconstruction of existing roads is viewed as maintaining current
conditions from the perspective of suitable habitat for rare and sensitive plants. Temporary
roads are a direct disturbance to suitable habitats and were included in the disturbance levels
for each alternative. Sites of soil restoration generally are not considered suitable habitat for
any plant species of concern, thus are not considered when determining impacts. An exception
would be Payson's milkvetch, which does find suitable habitat in such areas. The impacts to
this species are not quantified because it is benefited by ground disturbing activities in such
environments.
Alternative D impacts the most acres of sensitive plant species habitat and would result in the
greatest long-term benefit for plant species favored by serai conditions in lodgepole pine.
The acres of sensitive plant species habitat impacted by various management activities are
summarized in the following table. The four species of Botrychium are grouped due to habitat
similarity.
Bug-on-a-stick (Buxbaumia aphylla), and Deerfern (Blechnum spicant) and Evergreen kittentail
(Synthyris platycarpa) are not included in the effects analysis because existing information and
modeling results indicate that no suitable habitat for these species are being affected by any of
the proposed alternatives.
TABLE 3.132 - COMPARISON OF POTENTIAL SENSITIVE PLANT HABITAT AFFECTED BY ALTERNATIVE
SPECIES
Candystick
Allotropa virgata
Payson's milkvetch
Astragalus paysonii
Moonworts
Botrychium ssp.
Green bug-on-stick
Buxbaumia viridis
Clustered lady's slipper
Cypripedium fasciculatum
Idaho Barren Strawberry
Waldsteinia idahoensis
Activity
Crooked R. harvest
American Harvest
Total
% habitat affected
Occurrences Affected
Crooked R. Harvest
American Harvest
Total
% habitat affected
Crooked R. harvest
American R. Harvest
Total
% habitat affected
Crooked R. Harvest
American Harvest
Total
% habitat affected
Crooked R. Harvest
American Harvest
Total
% habitat affected
Crooked R. Harvest
American Harvest
Total
%. habitat affected
Alternative
B
974
91
1065
9%
10
630
378
1008
20%
0
0
0
0
222
210
432
2%
272
272
544
4%
494
257
751
5%
Alternative
C
1027
173
1200
10%
11
838
569
1408
28%
0
0
0
0
263
117
380
2%
300
371
671
5%
726
388
1114
7%
Alternative
D
1370
178
• 1548
13%
11
1000
683
1683
33%
0
0
0
0
271
280
551
3%
438
548
986
7%
732
1276
2008
13%
Alternative
E
850
42
892
7.5%
8
586
146
732
14%
0
0
0
0
176
151
327
2%
215
184
399
3%
498
130
628
4%
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CANDYSTICK (ALLOTROPA VIRGATA)
Candystick populations would be impacted by timber harvest, road-building and fuels treatment.
Generally, the greatest threat to candystick in the Idaho range is habitat loss due to harvest
(Lichthardt, 1995a). Candystick is most common in older lodgepole pine communities, thus
successional processes that regenerate lodgepole pine on the landscape are necessary to
replenish suitable habitat. Consequently, altered fire regimes brought about through fire
suppression may also pose a threat to candystick populations (Lichthardt, 1995a). The current
extensive mortality of lodgepole pine forests will also cause a decline in habitat and the loss of
populations as the host trees die. Field surveys in the Red River Watershed have confirmed
some candystick losses are occurring as a result of beetle mortality (M. Hays, 2003). The
proposed alternatives will affect approximately 7-13 percent of suitable habitat mainly in the
Crooked River watershed. In addition 8-11 existing occurrences of Candystick will be directly
impacted by timber harvest. Overall a downward trend is expected in candystick populations in
the Crooked River Watershed.
The conservation strategy for Candystick (Lichthardt, 1995a) outlines management
considerations for this species. Maintenance of well-distributed subpopulations will provide
seed to colonize harvest or burned patches-as succession proceeds. Guidelines to manage for
future lodgepole pine production are given and include avoidance of impacts to subpopulations
of 100 or more genets. These units can also be used to test active management on a limited
scale.
Where low levels of beetle infestation make it worthwhile, efforts should be made to place
reserve trees or buffers where candystick plants are found within units to maintain the more
significant subpopulations as recommended by the conservation strategy. This primarily
pertains to the occurrences in the Crooked River Watershed. In addition, any occurrences
found during implementation that fulfill the Priority 3 guidelines for significance and provide seed
for dispersal to future lodgepole habitat created by this project should be protected.
PAYSON'S MILKVETCH (ASTRAGALUS PAYSONII)
Timber harvest or road construction may impact suitable habitat in the short term but may
provide for new open habitat for future populations. The elimination of disturbances and fire
suppression that would result in a decline of early serai communities must also be considered a
threat to serai species. With the widespread opening of the forest due to the beetle infestation
and harvest activities proposed by this project, it is anticipated that populations of Payson's
milkvetch will expand. Current populations can also be put at risk from introduced species,
chemical sprays, recreation impacts, and road maintenance (Lorain, 1990). It is anticipated that
opening these habitats where it occurs will have a beneficial impact.
Temporary road construction, exotic and noxious weeds, and herbicide treatment of noxious
weeds, could impact Payson's milkvetch through the elimination of habitat, changes to early
serai conditions, or increased mortality (Fertig and Marriott, 1993). Exotic species, such as
spotted knapweed (Centaurea maculosa), Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense), and others that
establish in harvest units and roadways can out-compete Payson's milkvetch and occupy newly
created openings and gaps. Herbicide treatment would not alter suitability of habitat, but may
have a detrimental effect on Payson's milkvetch if invasive weeds are mixed with existing
populations.
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LANCE-LEAF MOONWORT (BOTRYCHIUM LANCEOLATUM), MINGAN MOONWORT (B.
MINGANENSE), NORTHERN MOONWORT (B. PINNATUM), LEAST MOONWORT (B. SIMPLE*)
Threats to species of Botrychium are not well understood. The only well-documented threat
resulting in a population decline was drought combined with fire (Johnson-Groh and Farrar,
1996). Because these species may occur in disturbed sites, threats may include natural plant
succession and potentially the same human activities that have also apparently resulted in
creation of suitable habitat. Since these species may also be found in forested areas that have
not been recently disturbed, forestry activities may affect existing populations negatively,
although no research has been reported (Chadde and Kudray, 2001). Some threats will directly
impact the above ground sporophyte and may be less serious, since the below ground part of
the life cycle is so important.
Simple removal of above ground leaf tissue may be inconsequential to the ability of moonworts
to survive, although removing sporulating individuals may eventually have an effect through the
limiting of recruitment (Johnson-Groh, 1999). It has been suggested that photosynthesis may
be important and that broad scale leaf removal or damage could threaten Botrychium
populations (Chadde and Kudray, 2001). Mycorrhizae are the most limiting factor for
Botrychium establishment, distribution and abundance (Johnson-Groh, 1999). Therefore
adverse impacts to the mycorrhizae may be expected to also have deleterious effects on
Botrychium.
Even-aged management would have the greatest effect by opening the canopy and disturbing
the soil surface. Thinning would maintain enough overstory canopy to sustain suitable habitat,
however the skidding of logs and the construction of temporary roads could alter the soil surface
and damage the important below ground portion of the plant. By buffering the draws and
riparian areas the moist microsites and forest floor where moonworts are most likely to occur
would be protected. Due to' protection of RHCA's, no management proposed by the action
alternatives would occur within suitable portions of Botrychium habitat. For this reason the
previous table that lists potential habitat acres affected by alternative summarizes that no
Botrychium habitat will be affected. The meadow portions of moonwort habitat will not be
impacted by proposed management activities.
GREEN BUG-ON-A-STICK (BUXBAUMIA VIRIDIS)
Processes, natural or man-caused, that open the overstory canopy, remove large organic
debris, or disturb the soil surface could affect Buxbaumia viridis habitat. The species is rare due
to inefficient dispersal and by difficulties in establishment (Laaka, 1992). Thus it will not cope
well with significant impacts to suitable habitat that would change the microclimate (Laaka and
Syrjanen , 1990). Down log recruitment, a necessary component of Buxbaumia habitat would
not occur with regeneration harvest. When necessary, mitigation activities should maintain
decaying logs and greater than 70 percent closed canopy for shade (FEMAT, 1994). Moist
riparian bottoms and toe-slopes have the greatest potential for maintaining large decaying logs
within grand fir habitats. Protecting draws and riparian areas would protect the moist microsites
where large logs are most likely to occur. As a result all alternatives affect an insignicant
amount of suitable habitat (2-3 percent).
CLUSTERED LADY'S SLIPPER (CYPRIPEDIUM FASCICULATUM)
Clustered lady's slipper is sensitive to ground disturbance and canopy removal. Apparent
population decreases have been observed where the overstory canopy was reduced (Lake,
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2001). The few plants found growing in full sunlight had yellowed and deformed leaves.
Disturbance to the duff layer that results in exposed soil may also be detrimental to established
populations. With even-aged management practices, the mycorrhizal fungal relationships
believed to be necessary for seedling germination and health would be severed. In addition, the
fungus cannot tolerate the direct sunlight that would result from such activities. The species'has
never been found in clearcut areas and extirpation would be the expected result of this form of
management (Greenlee, 1997).
Thinning would maintain enough canopy to sustain suitable habitat, however the skidding of
logs and the construction of temporary roads would alter the soil surface and physically remove
plants. However, plants have been found to persist after some forms of activity that avoid heavy
mechanical disturbance and leaves the light, heat and moisture regimes intact. Some
populations persist in areas that have undergone low intensity wildfire (Hays 1995) and in areas
that underwent some form of intermediate harvest that leaves the duff layer and some cover
intact (Lichthardt, 2002). It is possible that intermediate harvest treatments in grand fir and
Douglas fir habitat types may represent a mixture of detrimental and beneficial effects; in the
short term, individuals may be impacted by the timber harvest activities or canopy reduction, but
in the long term populations may benefit from the reduced threat of stand replacing fire
(Greenlee, 1997). The alternatives affect a small percentage (2-7 percent) of suitable habitat for
Cluster lady's slipper.
IDAHO BARREN STRAWBERRY (WALDSTEINIA IDAHOENSIS)
Population density of Idaho barren strawberry is greater in open stands with past harvest and in
old burns as compared to a more shaded closed conifer community (Crawford, 1980). It is
capable of colonizing disturbed soils where competition from shrubs and larger plants may be
reduced, providing a temporal window for Waldsteinia (Lichthardt, 1999). Fire also seems to
reduce competition and stimulates both seed and rhizome production. However, prolonged and
intense heat that penetrates deeply into the soil may kill the plant (Crawford, 1980).
It is difficult to determine long-term population trends for this species. Fire suppression has
caused a decline in disturbance, which would be expected to result in some decline. However,
large areas of even-aged management, and development of dispersed campsites along stream
and meadow margins have increased habitat. If soil surface disturbance is relatively light, Idaho
barren strawberry would benefit from the removal of overstory canopy.
TABLE 3.133 - SENSITIVE PLANT EFFECTS DETERMINATIONS
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Astragalus paysonii
Blechnum spicant
Botrychium lanceolatum var. lane.
Botrychium lineare
Botrychium minganense
Botrychium pinnatum
Botrychium simplex
Buxbaumia aphylla (moss)
Cypripedium fasciculatum
Species
Present
(Project
Area)
Y
Y
N
N
N
N
N
N
• N
Habitat
Present
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Effects Determination
Alt A
NI
NI
NI
NI
NI
NI
NI
NI
NI
AltB
BI
NI
NI
NI
NI
NI
NI
NI
MI
AltC
BI
NI
NI
NI
NI
NI
NI
NI
MI
AltD
BI
NI
NI
NI
NI
NI
NI
NI
MI
AltE
BI
NI
NI
NI
NI
NI
NI
NI
MI
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SCIENTIFIC NAME
Synthyris platycarpa
Waldstdnia idahoerisis
Allotropa virgata
Species
Present
(Project
Area)
Y
Y
Y
Habitat
Present
Y
Y
Y
Effects Determination
Alt A
NI
NI
AltB
NI
BI
AltC
NI
BI
AltD
NI
BI
AltE
NI
BI
If allotropa was designated sensitive it would have a
determination of May impact individuals or habitat but
not likely to cause trend toward federal listing or
reduce viability for the population or species
Sensitive Species Determination: NI = No Impact; BI = Benefical Impact; Ml = May impact
individuals or habitat but not likely to cause trend toward federal listing or reduce viability for the
population or species; LI = Likely to impact individuals or habitat with the consequence that the
action may contribute towards federal listing or result in reduced viability for the population or
species.
IRREVERSIBLE OR IRRETRIEVABLE EFFECTS
None of the alternatives described and analyzed would implement actions or activities that
would result in an irreversible commitment of resources as related to threatened, endangered or
sensitive plants.
With respect to irretrievable effects, loss of suitable habitat occurs when an area that was once
suitable for rare and sensitive plants is no longer available as a result of a series of actions.
The 'no action' alternative maintains current habitat conditions for plant species. Management
activities create mainly temporary disturbances and any irretrievable effect varies by individual
plant species. Proposed activities that affect one species or their habitat negatively may benefit
other plants. For example, reducing late serai grand fir to an early serai stage may eliminate
clustered lady's slipper from colonizing and making use of the habitat. A series of future
activities such as prescribed burning, thinning and other treatment could then render the area
unsuitable creating an irretrievable effect on clustered lady's slipper. The same series of action
may improve conditions for Payson's milkvetch (Astragalus paysonii) or Idaho barren strawberry
(Waldsteinia idahoensis).
CONSISTENCY WITH THE FOREST PLAN AND ENVIRONMENTAL LAW
As stated under the regulatory framework the objective for managing sensitive species is to
ensure population viability throughout their range on National Forest lands and to ensure they
do not become Federally listed as threatened or endangered. The forest plan supports this
direction but does not set specific standards and guides for sensitive plants. The alternatives
are consistent with this direction to the extent that proposed management actions would not
adversely affect viability of existing sensitive plant populations.
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS
Cumulative effects for rare and sensitive plants are addressed through consideration of
proposed and reasonably foreseeable actions. All reasonably foreseeable actions on lands
administered by the Forest Service could require protective measures to avoid negative impacts
to sensitive and rare plants. In this analysis cumulative effects to rare plants are discussed in
terms of general habitats in the project area and through quantification of modeled habitats
potentially affected at the watershed level.
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Discussion of cumulative effects for rare and sensitive plants can be addressed through the
general trend of habitat type groups found across the American River and Crooked River
watersheds as a result of past, present and future management actions. The proposed project
area contains several Habitat Type Groups (HTG) used for these discussions that contain the
micro-features that are important to the rare and sensitive plants discussed above. These types
include: Dry Douglas Fir and Grand Fir (HTG 2), Cool and Dry Grand Fir (HTG 3), Moist Grand
Fir (HTG 4), and Cool and moist Subalpine Fir and Spruce (HTG 7). This section focuses on
the capability of the habitats to support rare and sensitive plants.
DRY DOUGLAS FIR AND GRAND FIR (HTG 2)
These dry forest habitats are often open and found on south facing slopes of in the north central
portion of Crooked River. Habitat types are mostly shrubs and pine grass in the ponderosa
pine, Douglas fir and grand fir series. Generally this Habitat Type Group have seen significant
management activity over past decades including timber harvest and mining practices.
Decades of fire suppression have also increased forest cover in general.
Alternative D, and C would add disturbance to this landscape through timber harvest. So long
as proposed management returns these slopes to a more open condition with large dominant
pine and soil surface disturbance remains low, the cumulative affect would be an improving
trend. However, excessive soil disturbance could depress populations of desirable native
species, while encouraging invasion of weeds such as spotted knapweed (Centaurea
maculosa). Noxious weed treatment may maintain the improving trends if invasive weeds are
treated early as small infestations, rather than as dominant plants in susceptible habitat. It is
also likely that Payson's milkvetch (Astragalus paysonii) and Idaho barren strawberry
(Waldsteinia idahoensis) would be benefited by management activities that maintain an open
stand structure.
COOL AND DRY GRAND FIR (HTG3)
This Habitat Type Group is very common in much of the project area and contains such habitats
in the grand fir and Douglas fir series as beargrass (Xerophyllum tenax) and twinflower (Linnaea
borealis) among others that indicate relatively cool and dry sites for these forests types. It is
composed of the most common forest habitats in the Crooked River project area with
approximately 42,000 acres present.
Much of this zone has seen significant management activity in the past. Seedling and sapling
forest structure are increased due to even-aged management. Road densities are relatively
high in portions of the zone and some livestock grazing occurs along roads and in forest
openings. Exotic plants are scattered along these roads and openings. Mining activity was
once common, but is not abundant today. Cool and dry grand fir does not provide habitat for
many plant species of concern, but does support habitat and populations of Payson's milkvetch
(Astragalus paysonii) and Idaho barren strawberry (Waldsteinia idahoensis). Serai forests
dominated by lodgepole pine provide the necessary habitat for candystick (Allotropa virgata).
Disturbance to the landscape through timber harvest and temporary roads are relatively
common. The overall effect on potential sensitive plant habitat would be expected to be static to
improved conditions. If Payson's milkvetch or Idaho barren strawberry are present in these
habitats, both species are well documented to not only withstand disturbance, but generally are
increased by it (Crawford, 1980). As a result, population viability for these species is not a
concern.
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Occurrences of candystick are expected to decline in the Crooked River watershed due to
extensive lodgepole mortality from a combination of Mountain Pine Bettle, timber harvest,
temporary road construction and fuels reduction. Management activity may improve candystick
habitat in the long-term by providing future serai lodgepole pine habitats and allowing the
Lodgepole to develop into 60-80 year old stands. However, candystick habitat will continue to
decline for the foreseeable future and it is unknown at this time the extent of the affects on
existing population of this unique plant.
MOIST GRAND FIR (HTG 4)
The Moist Grand Fir Habitat Type Group covers approximately 31,000 acres. The majority is
found in the upper American River Watershed. The Grand-fir mosaic is well represented in this
HTG and is a common habitat in upper American River Watershed.
Generally this zone has seen significant management activity over past decades. Seedling and
sapling forest structure are increased due to even-aged management. Road densities are
relatively high in portions of the zone and some livestock grazing occurs along roads, and in
forb and alder glades within the Grand-fir mosaic zone. Historic mining has occurred along the
main river bottoms of both American and Crooked River watersheds, but this activity is less
common today. Exotic plants are present along roads. Moist grand fir provide habitat for
deerfern (Blechnum spicant), moonworts (Botrychium spp.), green bug-on-a-stick (Buxbaumia
viridis), clustered lady's slipper (Cypripedium fasciculatum), evergreen kittentail (Synthyris
platycarpa), Idaho barren strawberry (Waldsteineia idahoensis), and naked-stem rhizomnium
(Rhizomnium nudum) and ridges dominated by serai lodgepole pine support candystick
(Allotropa virgata).
Disturbance to the landscape through timber harvest, mining, grazing and roads is relatively
common and may continue in the future. Overall effect on potential sensitive plant habitat would
be a slight decrease in the amount and quality of suitable habitat. Long-term trends would be
static to slightly downward. A slight downward trend in habitat quality would not lead to
concerns for population viability since moist grand fir habitats are common in the upper
watersheds.
COOL AND MOIST SUBALPINE FIR AND SPRUCE (HTG 7)
These forest habitats are characterized by cool and moist site conditions and support subalpine
fir/Menziesia or other moist shrub or forb communities. Approximately 9100 acres of these
habitats are common in the upper watersheds of Crooked River and American River. Past land
use in these habitats would be similar to those of HTGs 4 with less harvest activity and grazing.
Past impacts from would be very similar to those described in HTG 4, but the potential to involve
sensitive plant species would be much reduced. In these cooler habitats probably only green-
bug-on-stick (Buxbaumia viridis) and naked rhizomnium (Rhizomnium nudum) would potentially
be present.
Overall, species with an affinity for early serai conditions and tolerance for light to moderate
disturbance, such as Payson's milkvetch and Idaho barren strawberry, will see some benefits
from the activities proposed in the action alternatives and future management proposals.
Management activities will impact suitable habitat for most of the other sensitive species, but
only at very low levels. Candystick provides the most significant botanical consideration
associated with these projects because known occurrences will be impacted along with suitable
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habitat, and it's low tolerance for overstory remove, soil disturbance and changes in stand
composition and structure.
3.10.2. CROOKED RIVER
INTRODUCTION
Plant communities in the analysis area can be seen as a mosaic of patches that change in
composition, size, and juxtaposition over time. Wildlife and human uses respond to the existing
pattern of vegetation. Processes like plant community succession, fire, insect and disease
activity, drought and grazing, all change the pattern that exists at any one time. Features like
climate, soil, slope, aspect and elevation, control the bounds within which patterns can change.
Vegetation Response Units (VRUs), and Potential Vegetation Groups (PVGs), within VRUs are
used to describe these bounds. The VRUs for the American River portion of the analysis are
shown' in figure 3.25. Within these delineations, presettlement processes like climate, fire, and
insect and disease activity were likely to operate within somewhat predictable ranges.
Understanding how these disturbance regimes worked, and the pattern of vegetation change, is
fundamental to management of ecosystems. This understanding can be used to help design
management systems that sustain patterns of vegetation at the scale, frequency, and kind of
change to which native species are adapted.
FIGURE 3.25
CROOKED RIVER VRU'S
10, 1470,9%
["AC]
8, 493, 3%
1, 354, 2%
3, , 0%
7, 3146, 20%
VRU
6, 10129,66%
(VRU 1: Convex slopes, subalpine fir ,VRU 3: Breaklands, grand fir and Douglas-fir
VRU 6: Cold basins, grand fir and subalpine fir VRU 7: Moist uplands, grand fir and Pacific yew)
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3.10.2.1. INDICATOR 1 - COMPOSITION (COVER TYPE/SPECIES/LAYER/AGE)
EXISTING CONDITION AND ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
The Crooked River portion of the project area encompasses approximately 23,300 acres.
Previous harvest in the project area, dating from the 1950s to the present has occurred on
approximately 5,217 acres or approximately 22 percent of the area. Of this approximately 2,768
acres were clearcut, 1640 acres were seed tree cuts, 809 acres were thinning/salvage cuts.
Figure 3.26 portrays harvest by method, acres and percentage of the analysis area.
FIGURE 3.26
CROOKED RIVER PORTION
PREVIOUS HARVEST
0, 18074, 77% I,
4112,23,0%
4113,2745, 12%
4131,389,2%
4132,.1251, 5%
4211, 171, 1%
4220, 35, 0%
4230, 603, 3%
(Harvest codes: NO - no harvest, 4112 - strip clearcut, 4113 - stand clearcut, 4121 -
shelter-wood prep cut, 4131 - shelterwood seed cut, 4132 - seed tree cut, 4211 - liberation cut,
4220-thinning)
FOREST COVER TYPES
A combination of wild fire, intentional fire, timber harvest and fire suppression have shaped the
existing pattern and composition of vegetation in the analysis area. The greatest changes from
historic vegetation conditions include:
Declines in lodgepole pine dominated communities due to harvest, fire suppression and forest
succession.
Increases in more shade tolerant tree species, like subalpine fir and grand fir, due to fire
suppression and forest succession.
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Declines in shrubland, riparian shrub, and riparian meadow due to forest encroachment,
agricultural conversion, and forest succession
Whitebark pine has declined seriously from blister rust, fire exclusion and mountain pine beetle.
Western white pine, never abundant, has also declined from blister rust.
Early serai structural stages, including forest openings, seedling and sapling, and pole stands,
with snags and down wood, have decreased because of fire suppression. Medium and large
tree classes have increased in most areas except larch and ponderosa pine forests.
Figure 3.27 and Table 3.134 display project area cover types.
FIGURE 3.27
Crooked River Portion
Dominant Species
GFB, 14, 0%
ABLA, 541, 2%
PICO, 8660, 39%
TGCH, 3270, 14%
TASH, 2524, 11%
PIEN, 314, 1%
PIPO_MMIX, 1519,7%
SHR, 574, 3%
PSME, 5337, 23%
TABLE 3.134 - CROOKED RIVER DOMINANT COVER TYPE CODES.
Dominance
Code
ABLA
GFB
PICO
PIEN
PIPO_MMIX
PSME
SHR
TASH
TGCH
Description
Abies-lasocarpa (subalpine fir)
Grass Forb
Pinus contorta (lodgepole pine)
Picea engelmannii (Englemann spruce)
Shade-intolerant mixed conifer (ponderosa pine, Douglas-fir, western larch)
Pseudotsuga menziesii (Douglas-fir)
Shrub Dominated
Shade-tolerant mixed conifer (ABLA/PIEN/TSME)
Shade-tolerant mixed conifer (ABGR/THPL/TSHE)
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STRUCTURE (SIZE CLASSES, DENSITY, AND CANOPY LAYERS)
SIZE CLASSES
Average tree size varies depending on year of origin, tree species, and growing conditions.
Approximately 3 percent of the project area consists of regenerating harvest units with tree
diameters less than 5 inches and 97 percent of the area supports trees with 5 inches diameter
at breast height (DBH) or greater. Figure 3.28 displays existing tree size classes in the project
area.
FIGURE 3.28 - TREE SIZE CLASSES
Crooked River Portion
Size Class Distribution
Large/Very Large Tree
(>=15in. DBH), 9483,
41%
Grass/Forb Dominated,
14, 0%
Small Tree (5-9.9 in.
DBH), 5208, 23%
Shrub Dominated, 574,
3%
Seedling/Sapling Tree_/ —-,. ——— Medium Tree (10-14.9
(< 5 in. DBH), 3, 0% in. DBH), 7470, 33%
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Figure 3.29 displays the current cover type and size class data for the forested area in the
Crooked River portion of the analysis area.
FIGURE 3.29
Crooked River Portion
Dominant Type/Size
10000
a Seedling/Sapling Tree (< 5 in. DBH)
STAND DENSITY
Stand density, measured in trees per acre vary widely across the project area. Variations are
due to elevation, aspect, soils and moisture, as well as disturbances such as insect activity, fire
and harvest. Stand densities in previously harvested, regenerated stands in the project area
range from approximately 1,000 to 4,000 trees per acre of sapling to pole-sized trees in
unthinned stands, to approximately 435 trees per acre in thinned stands. Stand densities in the
table below have been calculated for previously unmanaged stands in the project area. One
consequence of increased stand densities is the increase in fuel loading (tons per acre of
vegetative fuel) that could increase fire intensity, severity and resistance to control. Table 3.140
displays average stand densities by size class for previously unmanaged stands in the project
area.
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TABLE 3.135 - UNMANAGED STAND DENSITIES IN THE CROOKED RIVER AREA
Size Class
Seedling/Sapling
(<5 inch DBH)
Small
(5-9.9 inch DBH)
Medium Trees
(10-14.9 inch DBH)
Large
(15 + inch DBH)
Trees/Acre
1,300
66
53
5
Acres by
Size Class
3
5208
7470
9483
Percent of
Project Area
0
23
33
42
CANOPY LAYERS
Relatively simple one and two story stands have transitioned to more complex multi-story
stands. Lodgepole pine mortality will accelerate the shift toward multi-story conditions. Figure
3.30 displays canopy cover in the project area.
FIGURE 3.30
Crooked River Portion
Percent Canopy Cover
60-100%, 10815,47%
Grass/Forb dominated
lifeform, 14, 0%
Shrub dominated
lifeform, 574, 3%
10-24.9%, 2453, 11%
25-59.9%, 8898, 39%
(Key: Percent Canopy Cover, acres, percent of area)
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ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
Forest succession, insect and disease activity, timber harvest, fire and fire suppression have
resulted in changed cover types and forest structure since presettlement (USDA FS, 2003a).
Changes in forest cover types and structure (size class, stand density and canopy layers) are
used as indicators to quantify effects on vegetation. Cumulative effects are analyzed within the
Crooked River Drainage.
All action alternatives will have some effects to forest cover types and/or stand structure. All
action alternatives would reduce the potential for intense fire and severe fire effects to
vegetation through fuel removal, as well as reduce the risk of insect or disease outbreaks. The
differences between alternatives is number of acres treated, treatment types and amount of fuel
removal. All action alternatives implement prescribed fire treatments, though many stands in
the project area have too much existing fuel (dead material and ladder fuel) to safely allow the
use of prescribed burning without prior thinning. Prescribed harvests will reduce the canopy by
approximately 90 percent in clearcuts, 80 percent in seed tree units, 70 percent in shelter
woods, and 50 -60 percent on thinned acres.
COVER TYPES
DIRECT EFFECTS - COVER TYPES
ALTERNATIVE A - NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
There are no direct effects to cover types associated with this alternative. Cover types in the
project area would continue to change without direct intervention of man. Changes through time
will vary depending on the intensity of disturbances such as fire, weather events, disease, and
insect epidemics.
ALTERNATIVE B
Timber harvest and fuel reduction treatments would occur on approximately 1,831 acres.
Approximately 697 acres would be clearcut, 534 acres would be shelterwood, 109 acres would
be seed tree, 145 acres would be commercially thinned, 332 acres would be in roadside
salvage, and 17 acres would be fuel break. Direct effects would include the following changes
in cover types in the fuel treatment areas.
Acres of herbaceous clearcut would increase by approximately 806 acres. This acreage would
decrease as trees become reestablished on these acres and canopy closure excludes
herbaceous ground cover. Most of these acres would move towards short-lived intolerant
(lodgepole pine) and mixed conifer cover types over time. Lodgepole pine cover type would be
reduced by approximately 368 acres. Mixed conifer cover types would be reduced by
approximately 480 acres.
ALTERNATIVE C
Timber harvest and fuel reduction treatments would occur on approximately 1,872 acres.
Approximately 749 acres would be clearcut, 539 acres would be shelterwood, 150 acres would
be seed tree, 91 acres would be commercially thinned, 326 acres would be in roadside salvage,
and 17 acres would be fuel break. Direct effects would include the following changes in cover
types in the fuel treatment areas.
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Acres of herbaceous clearcut would increase by approximately 899 acres. This acreage would
decrease as trees become reestablished on these acres and canopy closure excludes
herbaceous ground cover. Most of these acres would move towards short-lived intolerant
(lodgepole pine) and mixed conifer cover types over time. Lodgepole pine cover type would be
reduced by 405 acres. Mixed conifer cover types would be reduced by approximately 567
acres.
ALTERNATIVE D
Timber harvest and fuel reduction treatments would occur on approximately 2,235 acres.
Approximately 804 acres would be clearcut, 659 acres would be shelterwood, 212 acres would
be seed tree, 214 acres would be commercially thinned, 329 acres would be in roadside
salvage, and 17 acres would be fuel break. Direct effects would include the following changes
in cover types in the fuel treatment areas.
Acres of herbaceous clearcut would increase by approximately 1016 acres. This acreage would
decrease as trees become reestablished on these acres and canopy closure excludes
herbaceous ground cover. Most of these acres would move towards short-lived intolerant
(lodgepole pine) and mixed conifer cover types over time. Lodgepole pine cover type would be
reduced by 422 acres. Mixed conifer cover types would be reduced by approximately 659
acres.
ALTERNATIVE E
Timber harvest and fuel reduction treatments would occur on approximately 1,656 acres.
Approximately 536 acres would be clearcut, 532 acres would be shelterwood, 88 acres would
be seed tree, 145 acres would be commercially thinned, 337 acres would be in roadside
salvage, and 17 acres would be fuel break. Direct effects would include the following changes
in cover types in the fuel treatment areas.
Acres of herbaceous clearcut would increase by approximately 624 acres. This acreage would
decrease as trees become reestablished on these acres and canopy closure excludes
herbaceous ground cover. Most of these acres would move towards short-lived intolerant
(lodgepole pine) and mixed conifer cover types over time. Lodgepole pine cover type would be
reduced by 283 acres. Mixed conifer cover types would be reduced by approximately'388 acres.
INDIRECT EFFECTS - COVER TYPES
ALTERNATIVE A - NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
Passive management is a conscious decision with short and long-term ecosystem
consequences. Preservation of dynamic ecosystems requires precisely timed, effectively
planned and implemented actions if desirable characteristics of those ecosystems are to remain
intact. Processes will take place whether at the hand of man or at random under the 'no action'
alternative. Anticipated effects of processes, which will occur with no human intervention, can
provide a benchmark against which to measure effects of active management.
Forest cover types in the project area would shift towards mixed conifer (primarily grand fir and
subalpine fir) cover types. Susceptibility to insect attacks and root diseases affecting conifer
species would be expected to increase. Mountain pine beetle would continue to cause
extensive mortality to lodgepole and ponderosa pine in the project area until host depletion
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results in a decline in the beetle population to endemic levels. Aerial detection surveys have
noted a slight decline in numbers of infected trees between 2002 and 2003, in the adjacent Red
River watershed, due to host depletion of susceptible lodgepole and ponderosa pine. As grand
fir, Douglas-fir and subalpine fir establish and dominate in stands previously dominated by
lodgepole pine, these species would be highly susceptible to root disease and insect attack,
thus contributing to increased fuel loading in these stands.
Fire suppression would continue throughout the project area, allowing fuels to build up and
disrupting the natural fire disturbance pattern. Low severity ground fire would not occur in the
project area at the scale necessary to maintain ponderosa pine and western larch cover types.
At some point, fire would likely reestablish lodgepole pine dominance in areas where seed
sources exist and mineral soil is exposed creating favorable seedbeds for conifer
reestablishment.
Early serai, shade-intolerant trees such as ponderosa pine and western larch would decrease in
numbers while the shade tolerant species Douglas fir, grand fir, and subalpine fir would
increase. The shrub, forb, and grass component of forest stands would continue to decline.
Forest stands where the principle species is Douglas fir, true fir, or Englemann spruce are highly
susceptible to outbreaks of defoliators such as western spruce budworm and Douglas fir
tussock moth. In recent years portions of the American River have experienced damaging
levels of hemlock lopper. The following factors make such forest stands within the Crooked
River analysis area particularly susceptible to attack.
Many forest stands are multi-storied. In a tussock moth or budworm infestation, the larvae feed
on new growth of larger trees. As the caterpillars mature, they drop off the tree for a variety of
reasons (wind, exhaustion of food supply, etc.). Landing on foliage suitable for foraging (such
as Douglas fir or grand fir) results in additional damage.
Older trees in many forest stands are not vigorous. Damage from defoliators, bark beetles, and
other insect pests could trigger eventual mortality.
The conifers in many of the forest stands in the Crooked River Analysis Area are stagnant.
Many of these trees are particularly vulnerable to defoliator and bark beetle attack.
Root disease is apparent in portions of the planning area. During a defoliator or bark beetle
attack mortality is often first noticed in root centers because of the weakened state of the trees.
Precipitation in the 1990s was below average. Over several years, coupled with higher than
historical stocking levels, this can have a negative effect on stand growth. Trees become more
likely to sustain significant damage from insects during or following drought cycles. Forest
stands that have southeasterly to westerly aspects are particularly susceptible to problems
associated with drought because of the drying effects of direct sunlight and the prevailing winds
on these aspects.
Increases in other insects such as fir engraver and Douglas fir beetle often accompany a
defoliator outbreak. Insects are often at endemic levels in the forest, but become more
apparent and increase in numbers as a defoliator infestation progresses. Often these insects
will "finish off1 trees previously weakened by other pests or pathogens. Any combination of the
above listed factors could elevate the level of damage from defoliation to mortality. Additional
mortality would add to fuel loads already outside their historic range and increase the risk of
stand replacement wildfire.
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ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, AND E
Indirect effects would include enhancement of fire resistant ponderosa pine and western larch,
and regeneration of lodgepole pine cover types in the project area. Increased vigor and
resistance to damage from fire, insects and disease can be expected in other forest cover types
in the project area. Openings created through removal and prescribed burning would create
favorable conditions for establishment of fire resistant species such as ponderosa pine and
western larch, as well as lodgepole pine. In areas usually dominated by lodgepole pine, this
species would be expected to reestablish rapidly from local seed sources. In areas where
ponderosa pine and western larch have been extirpated, these species could be planted to
assure reestablishment.
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS - COVER TYPES
ALTERNATIVE A
Every year a wildfire starts somewhere in the Crooked River watershed. Fire spread depends
on weather (temperature, wind, and moisture primarily), topography, and fuel. The longer fire or
fuel management is absent from an area the greater the total biomass quantity and continuous
fuel. When a wildfire starts these factors result in more intense fire behavior and increased
resistance to control. With the higher intensity and increased area of a fire, the more vegetation
that would be damaged or destroyed. This includes large, old trees, which have withstood
natural low intensity fires for centuries. These sites did not typically have continuous areas of
dense understories of saplings and poles to provide ladder fuels to the crowns, nor the
concentration of live aerial biomass associated with grand fir and Douglas fir. Natural fuel
loading that is higher than historic levels, coupled with a dense understory, can create a crown
fire condition which is much hotter and more damaging to plants and soils than the historic
natural fire regime which burned ground fuels and grasses.
The implementation of Alternative A (No Action), with current forest conditions (live and dead
biomass) outside the historic natural range of variability, provides a greater risk of epidemic
stand loss to diseases and insects. In these finite systems of moisture and sunlight only a
certain amount of live biomass can be supported per acre. Consequently, the more individual
trees on an acre, the smaller the allocation of water and the necessary elements per tree
resulting in subsequent lower vigor and growth per individual tree. Plants produce different
hormones and other chemicals when growing at various rates that affect the potential size of
these plants. Plants that receive more moisture and sunlight grow faster and have the potential
to achieve a larger size.
Insect infestation would increase with no management action. Forest stands under stress have
a higher potential to attract bark beetles. When trees are stressed they produce chemicals
which are natural attraction signals to bark beetles. Bark beetles are a natural thinning agent
and a necessary part of the ecosystem in creating habitat for certain wildlife species, and
reducing stress for the remaining live trees. With the increase in vulnerable food supplies
(stressed trees) insect populations can build to epidemic proportions. Epidemics of beetles can
destroy even the healthiest trees due to mass attacks. Bark beetles can also carry spores that
inoculate trees with saprophytic microorganisms that can weaken the bole and increases the
rate of bole snap and decomposition. This effect would cause many trees (snags) killed by
beetles to fall to the ground in a relatively short time, decreasing their value for cavity nesters
and increasing the amount of fuel for high intensity wildfire.
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The majority of forest stands proposed for treatment in the Crooked River Area are in a state of
poor vigor. Trees are generally more susceptible to root rots and disease when at low vigor.
With the selection of Alternative A, tree vigor would continue to decline and would likely result in
more tree deaths attributable to root rot, especially the more susceptible grand fir and Douglas
fir. Parasitic plant dwarf mistletoe would also contribute to decline in Douglas fir, lodgepole
pine, and western larch.
Conifers, especially shade-tolerant species such as Douglas fir and grand fir, would continue to
invade historically open forest stands and meadows. Grasses, forbs and shrubs would become
depauperate in densely stocked forest stands. Gene pools of various species of plants,
especially those dependent on frequent fire regimes, would decline and become less viable.
Reduced acres of lodgepole pine and ponderosa pine cover types can be expected in time due
to mountain pine beetle induced mortality and forest succession favoring establishment of
climax species. Western larch cover type can also be expected to decrease over the long term.
Mixed conifer cover type could be expected to increase.
ALTERNATIVE B
Implementation would affect forest cover types on 1,465 acres in the drainage. Other harvest
and fuel reduction activities in the drainage, and ongoing hazard tree removal and firewood
cutting also have potential to affect forest cover types on additional acres in the drainage.
ALTERNATIVE C
Implementation would affect forest cover types on 1,530 acres in the drainage. Other harvest
and fuel reduction activities in the drainage, and ongoing hazard tree removal and firewood
cutting also have potential effects to forest cover types on additional acres in the drainage.
ALTERNATIVE D
Implementation would affect forest cover types on 1,907 acres in the drainage. Other harvest
and fuel reduction activities in the drainage, and ongoing hazard tree removal and firewood
cutting also have potential effects to forest cover types on additional acres in the drainage.
ALTERNATIVE E
Implementation would affect forest cover types on 1,259 acres in the drainage. Other harvest
and fuel reduction activities in the drainage and ongoing hazard tree removal and firewood
cutting also have potential effects to forest cover types and structure on additional acres in the
drainage.
IRREVERSIBLE OR IRRETRIEVABLE EFFECTS - COVER TYPES
There are no irreversible or irretrievable effects to cover types associated with any of the
alternatives. Alternatives B, C, D, and E would temporarily affect herbaceous cover types,
short-lived intolerant, and mixed conifer cover types. However, vegetation normally present in
those types would reclaim those areas though forest succession. Alternative A would have no
effect on forest cover types.
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STRUCTURE
DIRECT EFFECTS - SIZE CLASS
ALTERNATIVE A - NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
There are no direct effects to size classes associated with this alternative. Table 3.141
compares the percentage of resultant size class to the current for the Crooked River portion of
the analysis area. Figure 3.31 displays Crooked River size classes by alternative.
ALTERNATIVE B
Direct effects to tree size classes would include an increase in seedling/sapling size classes on
approximately 806 acres in clearcut and seed tree areas. Pole through medium size tree
classes would be reduced on 607 acres. Large tree (15 + inch DBH) size classes would be
reduced on 187 acres. All trees greater than 21 inches DBH would remain except for incidental
removal for temporary road construction and line corridors. Table 3.136 compares the
percentage of resultant size class to the current for the Crooked River portion of the analysis
area. Figure 3.31 displays Crooked River size classes by alternative.
ALTERNATIVE C
Direct effects to tree size classes would include an increase in seedling/sapling size classes on
approximately 899 acres in clearcut areas. Pole through medium size tree class acres would be
reduced on approximately 661 acres. Large tree (15 + inch DBH) size classes would be
reduced on 231 acres. All trees greater than 21 inches DBH would remain except for incidental
removal for temporary road construction and line corridors. Table 3.136 compares the
percentage of resultant size class to the current for the Crooked River portion of the analysis
area. Figure 3.31 displays Crooked River size classes by alternative.
ALTERNATIVE D
Direct effects to tree size classes include an increase in seedling/sapling size classes on
approximately 1,015 acres. Pole through medium size tree class acres would be reduced on
741 acres. Large tree (15 + inch DBH) size classes would be reduced on 267 acres. All trees
greater than 21 inches DBH would remain except for incidental removal for temporary road
construction and line corridors. Table 3.136 compares the percentage of resultant size class to
the current for the Crooked River portion of the analysis area. Figure 3.31 displays Crooked
River size classes by alternative.
ALTERNATIVE E
Direct effects to tree size classes include an increase in seedling/sapling size classes on
approximately 624 acres. Pole through medium size tree class acres would be reduced on 463
acres. Large tree (15 + inch DBH) size classes would be reduced on 156 acres. All trees
greater than 21 inches DBH would remain except for incidental removal for temporary road
construction and line corridors. Table 3.136 compares the percentage of resultant size class to
the current for the Crooked River portion of the analysis area. Figure 3.31 displays Crooked
River size classes by alternative.
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TABLE 3.136 - CROOKED RIVER PROPORTION OF EXISTING SIZE CLASS
SIZE CLASS
Large/Very Large Tree (>= 15 in. DBH)
Medium Tree (10-14.9 in. DBH)
Small Tree (5-9.9 in. DBH)
Seedling/Sapling Tree (< 5 in. DBH)
Shrub Dominated
ALT A
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
ALTB
98%
95%
95%
26733%
100%
ALTC
98%
95%
95%
30067%
100%
ALTD
97%
94%
95%
33933%
100%
ALTE
98%
96%
96%
20833%
100%
FIGURE 3.31
Crooked
Size Class
100% j-mm
ono/
sn% -
K fin% -
ra
O 5QO/ .
0) OU/0
N
AT\%.
"VWn -
?o% -
m% -
0% -
m Grass/Forb
Dominated
• Shrub Dominated
Q Seedling/Sapling Tree
(< 5 in. DBH)
n Small Tree (5-9.9 in.
DBH)
D Medium Tree (10-14.9
in. DBH)
D large/Very Large Tree
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ALT A
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ALTD
14
574
1018
4922
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9216
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u1 ^^
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,
ALTE
14
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625
5022
7193
9327
Alternative Acres
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INDIRECT EFFECTS - SIZE CLASS
ALTERNATIVE A - NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
Size class diversity would temporarily increase as shade tolerant grand fir and subalpine fir
establish and maintain in stands in the project area. Small and medium trees would dominate
creating continuous fuel ladders, increasing the potential for severe fire. Large fire resistant
ponderosa pine and western larch would eventually be excluded due to stress induced by
competition for water and nutrients, lack of suitable conditions for regeneration, or severe fire.
In time, severe fire would probably occur, resulting in reestablishment of single size class stands
in burned areas.
ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, AND E
Indirect effects associated with fuel reduction treatments would be increased growth and vigor,
as well as resistance to damage from fire to remaining trees in the fuel reduction areas.
Remaining trees in all size classes would benefit through reduced competition for water and
nutrients.
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS - SlZE CLASS
ALTERNATIVE A - NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
There are no cumulative effects to size classes in the Crooked River Drainage associated with
alternative one.
ALTERNATIVE B
Size classes would be affected on approximately 806 acres 1.8 percent of the Crooked River
drainage.
ALTERNATIVE C
Size classes would be affected on approximately 899 acres 2 percent of the Crooked River
drainage.
ALTERNATIVE D
Size classes would be affected on approximately 1015 acres2.2 percent of the Crooked River
drainage.
ALTERNATIVE E
Size classes would be affected on approximately 624 acres 1.4 percent of the Crooked River
drainage.
IRREVERSIBLE OR IRRETRIEVABLE EFFECTS - SIZE CLASS
There are no irreversible or irretrievable effects to size classes associated with any of the
alternatives. Alternatives B, C, D, and E would have some effects on size classes in the project
area, though this would be temporary.
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STAND DENSITY
DIRECT EFFECTS - STAND DENSITY
ALTERNATIVE A - NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
There are no direct effects to stand densities associated with this alternative.
ALTERNATIVE B
Direct effects would be reduced stand densities on approximately 1,831 acres in the project
area. Stand densities would be reduced approximately 90 percent on clearcut acres, 80 percent
on seed tree acres, 70 percent on shelterwood and fuel break acres, 50-60 percent on thinning
acres, and 10 percent on salvage acres..
ALTERNATIVE C
Direct effects would be reduced stand densities on approximately 1,872 acres in the project
area. Stand densities would be reduced approximately 90 percent on clearcut acres, 80 percent
on seed tree acres, 70 percent on shelterwood and fuel break acres, 50-60 percent on thinning
acres, and 10 percent on salvage acres..
ALTERNATIVE D
Direct effects would be reduced stand densities on approximately 2,235 acres in the project
area. Stand densities would be reduced approximately 90 percent on clearcut acres, 80 percent
on seed tree acres, 70 percent on shelterwood and fuel break acres, 50-60 percent on thinning
acres, and 10 percent on salvage acres..
ALTERNATIVE E
Direct effects would be reduced stand densities on approximately 1,656 acres in the project
area. Stand densities would be reduced approximately 90 percent on clearcut acres, 80 percent
on seed tree acres, 70 percent on shelterwood and fuel break acres, 50-60 percent on thinning
acres, and 10 percent on salvage acres.
INDIRECT EFFECTS - STAND DENSITY
ALTERNATIVE A - NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
Stand densities would increase in the short term as lodgepole stands are replaced by grand fir
and subalpine fir. Increased stand densities would result in increased fuel loading and potential
for intense fire activity. Barring fire, insect or disease epidemics, stand densities would
decrease as stands mature and competition results in stem exclusion.
ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, AND E
Increased vigor and resistance to damage from fire, insects and disease would expected for all
tree species in the fuel reduction areas. Reduced densities and underburning would create
openings and favorable conditions for establishment fire resistant serai species such as
ponderosa pine and western larch. In areas usually dominated by lodgepole pine, this species
would be expected to reestablish rapidly from local seed sources. In areas where ponderosa
pine and western larch have been reduced, these species could be planted to assure
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
reestablishment. Increased potential for wind damage may occur in some areas. However this
would be minimized through project design to protect remaining trees in those areas.
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS - STAND DENSITY
ALTERNATIVE A - NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
There are no cumulative effects to stand densities associated with this alternative.
ALTERNATIVE B
Stand densities would be reduced on approximately 1,831 acres in the drainage. This would
change stand densities in approximately 4.0 percent of the drainage
ALTERNATIVE C
Stand densities would be reduced on approximately 1,872 acres in the drainage. This would
change stand densities in approximately 4.1 percent of the drainage
ALTERNATIVE D
Stand densities would be reduced on approximately 2,235 acres in the drainage. This would
change stand densities in approximately 4.9 percent of the drainage
ALTERNATIVE E
Stand densities would be reduced on approximately 1,656 acres in the drainage. This would
change stand densities in approximately 3.5 percent of the drainage.
IRREVERSIBLE OR IRRETRIEVABLE EFFECTS - SIZE CLASS
There are no irreversible or irretrievable effects to stand densities associated with any of the
alternatives. Alternatives B, C, D, and E would reduce stand densities in the project area,
though this effect would be temporary.
3.10.2.2. INDICATOR 2 - DISTURBANCE PATTERNS (SEE SECTION 3.10.1.2.)
3.10.2.3. INDICATOR 3 - RARE PLANTS (SEE SECTION 3.10.1.3)
OS &5VS
3.10.3. SUMMARY OF CUMULATIVE EFFECTS FOR VEGETATION
VRU1
• Grand fir and subalpine fir have increased.
• Acres of early serai herbaceous shrub, sapling and small tree stands have increased.
• Medium and large trees have decreased.
• Acreage of non-forest openings have declined.
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VRU3
• Ponderosa pine and western larch have declined.
• Grand fir and Douglas-fir have increased.
• Lodgepole pine stands have shifted towards mixed conifer.
• Small trees have increased.
• Medium and large trees have declined.
• Vertical canopy layers have increased, while canopy density has declined.
VRU6
• Lodgepole pine dominance has decreased.
• Mixed conifer stands of small trees have increased.
• Large trees have decreased.
• Tree canopy density has declined.
• Age class and patch size diversity have declined.
• Old growth is estimated at 4.9 percent of the potential forested acres of this VRU in the
American and Crooked River watershed. This is within the historic range of 5 to 15
percent that would normally be expected occupy this VRU.
VRU 7
• Acres of small trees have increased.
• Tree canopy density has decreased.
• Extensive snag patches have decreased, except for patches associated with lodgepole
pine mortality.
Old growth is estimated at 18.5 percent of the potential forested acres of the VRU in the
American and Crooked River watershed. Historically, 15-30 percent old growth would normally
be expected to occupy this VRU.
FOREST PLAN STANDARDS
The following Forestwide Standards for Vegetation Resources, from among those listed on
page 11-18 and 11-19 of the Nez Perce National Forest Plan, apply to this project and will be met
as follows:
The following timber objective was added to the Forest Plan by Amendment 20 (PacFish).
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TABLE 3.137 - FOREST PLAN COMPLIANCE - VEGETATION
Standard
Number
TM-1
Subject Summary
FOREST PLAN Amendment 20
Prohibit timber harvest in Riparian Habitat Conservation
Areas (RHCAs), except as described below:
a. Where catastrophic events such as fire, flooding,
wind or insect damage result in degraded riparian
conditions.
b. To require desired vegetation characteristics.
Compliance Achieved By
PACFJSH)
RHCAs were mapped in CIS using the stream
and fish occurrence coverages. These areas
were excluded from harvest units. Further
refinement will be done during unit layout. No
harvest is planned in RHCAs regardless of
vegetation conditions.
In addition, as stated under the regulatory framework, the objective for managing sensitive plant
species is to ensure population viability throughout their range on National Forest lands and to
ensure they do not become Federally listed as threatened or endangered. The Forest Plan
supports this direction but does not set specific standards and guides for sensitive plants. The
alternatives are consistent with this direction to the extent that proposed management actions
would not adversely affect viability of existing sensitive plant populations.
3.10.4. WEEDS AND NON-NATIVE VEGETATION
INTRODUCTION
Invasive plants have been identified as a significant threat to western ecosystems. As invasive
plants invade and establish, native species richness and frequency may be reduced (Forcella
and Harvey, 1983) erosion rates may increase (Lacey et. a/., 1989), ecological processes may
be altered (Whisenant, 1990) and rare plants could be threatened (Rosentreter, 1994).
Bedunnah (1992) noted that exotic plants have the potential to alter ecological equilibrium to a
point where the change is permanent. Invasive plants can clearly alter ecosystem processes in
the west. (Dukes and Mooney,2001).
Significantly higher rates of sedimentation from runoff in knapweed dominated sites has been
documented in Montana (Lacey et. a/., 1989). Cheatgrass and medusahead have altered fire
frequencies in many areas of the Great Basin and intermountain region (Whisenant, 1990;
Young, 1992). Purple loosestrife has significantly changed wetland vegetation structure in
eastern North America, and is currently expanding into the Pacific Northwest. Plant community
structure along many canyon slopes in the Snake and Salmon River basins and lower
Clearwater River basin has shifted from a fibrous rooted bunchgrass community to one
dominated by tap-rooted weedy forbs, affecting habitat for chukar (Pauley, 1993) and other
grassland birds.
Invasive plants can have an economic impact as well. In North Dakota, it was estimated that
leafy spurge had a direct economic impact of over $25 million, with a total direct and indirect
impact of $87.3 million. It has been estimated that if spotted knapweed continues to spread, the
potential annual loss to Montana's rangelands could reach $155 million (Lacey et. a/., 1995). A
recent economic impact analysis of the effects of Tamarix in the western United States
estimated a 55 year total value lost from 7.3 to 16 billion dollars from the invasive riparian tree
(Zavaleta, 2000).
Invasive plants can expand following man caused or natural disturbances, and invade degraded
as well as intact habitats (Tausch et a/., 7994; Parker, 2001; Willard, ef a/., 1988). Forcella and
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Harvey (1983) documented Eurasian weeds dominating relatively undisturbed grasslands in
Montana. Tyser and Key (1988) reported that spotted knapweed invaded and reproduced in
rough fescue communities in Glacier National Park. Sulfur cinquefoil has been found as a co-
dominate in an otherwise good condition bunchgrass community.
SCOPE OF THE ANALYSIS
This section addresses the presence of invasive plants relative to expansion risk zones,
susceptible habitats and spread pathways. The direct and indirect effects are considered within
the Crooked River and American River watersheds. Cumulative effects are considered within
the South Fork Clearwater River sub-basin.
REGULATORY FRAMEWORK
Analysis and evaluation of Invasive plants in this EIS is based on direction contained in The
Federal Noxious Weed law (1974) as amended, Executive Order 13112 for Invasive Species,
Forest Service policy (2080), Northern Region Supplement (R1 2000-2001-1) Implementation of
Integrated Weed Management on National Forest System lands in the Northern Region, and the
Nez Perce National Forest Plan (II-7, II-20, II-26, III-6).
In general, the Forest is directed to implement an effective weed management program with the
objectives of preventing the introduction and establishment of noxious weeds; containing and
suppressing existing weed infestations; and cooperating with local, state, and other federal
agencies in the management of noxious weeds.
Section 2 (a) (3) of Executive Order 13112 for Invasive Species directs federal agencies to "not
authorize, fund, or carry out actions that it believes are likely to cause or promote the
introduction or spread of invasive species in the United States or elsewhere unless, pursuant to
guidelines that it has prescribed, the agency has determined and made public its determinations
that the benefits of such actions clearly outweigh the potential harm caused by invasive species;
and that all feasible and prudent measures to minimize risk of harm will be taken in conjunction
with the actions".
Section 2081.03 of Forest Service policy 2081 Management of Noxious Weeds directs Forests
to determine the risk of introducing or spreading noxious weeds as a result of any ground
disturbing action or activity. For projects having moderate to high risk of spread, the project
must identify noxious weed control measures that must be undertaken during project
implementation.
ANALYSIS METHODS
Weed expansion in the project area is greatly influenced by habitat susceptibility, seed
availability, seed or propagule dispersal, and habitat disturbance. The probability that weeds
will expand in the analysis area depends on the interaction of these four factors. Weed
expansion begins with the dispersal of seed from existing weed infestations adjacent to
uninfested areas.
Land use practices and resource conditions may be important factors that encourage the initial
invasion of exotic plants (Hobbs, 2000). In mountainous habitat roads and trails are the primary
means by which people and their equipment interact with the environment and therefore may be
an important spread pathway. These linear corridors act as dispersal conduits for exotic plants
(Gelbard and Belnap, 2003, Marcus et a/., 1998). In addition, road and trail management
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
creates sustained levels of soil disturbance that promotes establishment of exotic plants there
by increasing seed or propagules for ongoing dispersal (Parendes and Jones, 2000). From
these small isolated infestations along roads and trails, invasive plants may colonize adjacent
native habitats or may respond to periodic disturbance by spreading into previously uninvested
areas.
Disturbance creates spatial and temporal openings where sites become suitable for plant
establishment, where usable light, space, water and nutrients are available to meet the specific
growing requirements of the plant. Disturbance may increase the susceptibility of an otherwise
intact plant community to weed invasion by increasing the availability of a limited resource
(Hobbs, 1989). Natural or human caused fires along with timber harvest and grazing are board
scale disturbances that influence the amount of available habitat for weed establishment and
may promote invasion of exotic plants (D'Antonio, 2000; Belsky and Gelbard, 2000; Pauchard et
a/., 2003).
SUSCEPTIBLE HABITATS
Susceptibility refers to the vulnerability of plant communities to colonization and establishment
of invasive plants. Exotic plants can be expected to colonize those sites or habitats that provide
the necessary requirements to complete their life cycle. Those habitats that lack the necessary
resources for specific weeds are not considered susceptible to colonization. In these conditions
a site or habitat may be considered as having low susceptibility or may even be closed.
For this analysis, habitats were rated as having low, moderate or high susceptibility based on
habitat type group (HTG) characteristics and known ability of a group of weeds to colpnize in
these habitat types. Highly susceptible habitats have site characteristics and plant community
structure such that invasive plants can colonize and dominate the herbaceous layer even in the
absence of intense and frequent disturbance. HTGs with a low rating have plant community
structure and or site characteristics that limit weeds from exhibiting invasive behavior. Species
may colonize highly disturbed sites and waste places but act as ephemeral species in the plant
community. Closed Habitat Type Groups have characteristic such as high elevation, extreme
climates, substrate or existing plant community structure where the habitat is effectively closed
to weed colonization.
The habitat susceptibility analysis for this project used weed guilds rather than individual
species. Weed guilds can be considered as groups of exotic or invasive plants that share
common growing requirements and generally colonize and affect similar habitats. Many weeds
are capable of growing across a greater range of environmental conditions. However, weeds
have been placed in the guild for which they have the greatest potential to impact the existing
plant community. The Montane Weeds group was used for susceptibility analysis. This guild of
exotic plants is capable of colonizing and becoming a member of a Dry and warm forest
communities. Weed species include leafy spurge, sulfur cinquefoil, spotted knapweed, orange
hawkweed, yellow toadflax and Canada thistle. Warm Dry Douglas-Fir (HTG2) and Warm/Dry
Grand Fir(HTG 3), and drier portions of meadows (HTG 60) are often susceptible to these
species.
As summarized in Table 3.138, approximately 53 percent of the analysis area can be
characterized as low susceptibility or not susceptible to invasive plants. These areas fall into
moist grand-fir to subalpine fir habitats. Forcella and Harvey (1983) found weeds in high-
montane forest habitats restricted to roadsides even with adjacent native habitat disturbance.
Highly susceptible habitat makes up approximately 3 percent of the analysis area and is
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restricted to scattered stands and south slopes characterized by relatively open dry Douglas-fir.
The most common Habitat Type Group, Dry Grand-fir, rated as moderately susceptible to
invasive plants and accounted for approximately 43 percent of the analysis area.
In general the analysis area can be characterized as low to moderately susceptible to invasive
plants. The moderate and high susceptibility zones were used in the following section to assess
the risk of spread by invasive plants.
TABLE 3.138: WEED SUSCEPTIBILITY RATING
Watersheds
American River
Crooked River
Totals
Weed Susceptibility Ratim
High
99
1150
1249
Moderate
5923
10942
16865
Low
8036
4636
12672
3
Closed
1533
6562
8095
Totals
15,591
23,290
38,882
EXOTIC PLANT INVENTORY DA TA
Our knowledge of existing exotic vegetation populations is limited in the analysis area. Although
spot surveys have been conducted for several years they have been of limited scope.
Approximately 30 acres of spotted knapweed and 127 acres Canada thistle have been
documented within or adjacent to the proposed activity areas. Most of the infestations are small
and scattered. The majority of documented infestations within the analysis area have been
found along or associated with the transportation network.
WEED EXPANSION RISK
The risk of weed expansion in the analysis area was determined by assessing the following
factors; susceptibility of Habitat Type Groups (HTGs 2 and 3), the presence of weed infestations
within and adjacent to the analysis area (seed source), timber harvest over the past 20 years
(site disturbance), and the presence and location of existing roads (spread pathway).
Geographic Information System (CIS) was used to display and calculate acres of at risk areas.
Table 3.183 at the end of this section summarizes the rating matrix that was used to determine
the probability of expansion for invasive plants.
When all four factors (susceptible habitat, seed source, disturbance, spread pathway) are in
proximity to one another the risk of invasive plant expansion is considered high. An example of
this condition would be dry ponderosa habitat that has recently been disturbed, adjacent to a
road with an existing infestation of rush skeletonweed. There would be a high probability that
rush skeletonweed would spread. If one or more factors are missing, the likelihood of weed
spread would decline.
In the analysis area, the grand-fir habitat is low to moderately.susceptible to weed invasion with
relatively few, small weed infestations associated with the transportation network. However,
human activity levels as characterized by past timber harvest and existing roads, is relatively
high in portions of the watersheds. As a result the overall risk of weed spread in the analysis
area can be characterized as having low to moderate probability of substantial weed spread.
The identified risk zones within the analysis area are generated from the interaction of
moderately susceptible habitats, recent disturbance and existing roads. The tables below
displays acres that are rated as having a moderate risk of weed expansion.
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TABLE 3.139: ACRES OF EXPANSION RISK
Acres of Expansion Risk
Watershed
Crooked River
American River
Moderate Risk
8796 ac
3581 ac
Percent of area
37%
22%
This effects analysis focuses primarily on activities occurring within areas of moderate risk to
weed expansion. The type and amount of ground disturbing and/or habitat altering activity for
each alternative was assessed and compared to weed expansion risk zones. Acres of activity
adjacent to or occurring in moderate weed expansion risk zones were calculated for each
alternative. To simplify, only activities associated with Alternative D that occur within or
adjacent to weed expansion zones are displayed on maps 16a and 16b. All other alternatives
propose less activity.
TABLE 3.140: DISTURBANCE BY ALTERNATIVE
Risk Area By
Watershed
ARLow
CRLow
Subtotal low
ARMod
CRMod
Subtotal Mod
Project totals
Alternative
B
Harvest
Unit
230
812
1,042
347
685
1032
2,074 ac
New
Roads
1.99
1.77
3.76
1.57
2.52
4.09
7.85 miles
C
Harvest
Units
208
792
1,000
506
781
1287
2,287 ac
New
Roads
3.94
2.65
6.59
4.19
3.52
7.71
14.3 miles
D
Harvest
Units
502
957
1,459
571
950
1521
2,980 ac
New Roads
3.94
2.65
6.59
4.19
3.52
7.71
14.3 miles
E
Harvest
Units
164
655
819
144
636
780
1,599 ac
New Roads
1.46
1.12
2.58
0.47
2.23
2.70
5.28 miles
All action alternatives have the potential to spread weeds to some degree because of site
altering or ground disturbing activities within moderately susceptible habitats. Of the action
alternatives, Alternative D would result in the most disturbed acres and greatest potential for
weed expansion. Alternative E would have the least potential to spread weeds. This is a
relative ranking of alternatives based on total acres of disturbance. It is recognized that the
actual amount of ground disturbing activity would likely be less than the gross acres displayed.
The ground based logging system would disturb the soil surface more so than the proposed
cable system. Alternative D would have the most acres of ground based system in moderately
susceptible habitats within HTG 3 and HTG 2. Alternative E would have the least acres
disturbed by ground operations. Alternative C and B fall between the two other alternatives.
Scattered patches of invasive plants are found along the edges and within habitats that are not
inherently susceptible to weed invasion. These plants may not represent a risk to the existing
plant community or pose a threat to ecosystem process and function, but can act as a
seed/propagule reservoir for future dispersal into more suitable sites. Most weeds do not spread
across a landscape by a single advancing front. Rather, weeds establish from many small
disjunct patches from independent populations (Moody and Mack, 1988). In many cases, these
outlying small patches become the founding population for further dispersal. Small infestations
that do not pose a current threat to the existing plant community may still contribute to the
spread of the species by acting as a founder population for new disjunct patches.
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SUMMARY
Large infestations of invasive plants are found adjacent to the National Forest and along the
South Fork of the Clearwater River . However, the analysis areas contain relatively small
infestations of invasive exotic plants such as spotted knapweed and Canada thistle.
There are zones in both Crooked River and American River portions that have a moderate risk
of weed expansion due to a combination of susceptible habitats, frequent disturbances, high
road densities and scattered seed sources.
Based on the location of existing infestations the transportation corridors are the primary spread
pathway for weed expansion within the analysis area.
Close integration of future disturbance activities will be necessary in moderate risk zones. If the
seed sources, or pathways can be effectively managed, then the moderate risk of expansion
from the proposed project will be minimized through implementation of all design criteria for
noxious weeds in chapter 2 and specified monitoring protocols.
Due to the large and growing infestations adjacent to the National Forest, invasive plant
management within the analysis area would be integrated into the broader weed strategies
cooperatively developed across the Clearwater River Basin.
TABLE 3.141: PROBABILITY OF WEED SPREAD, RATING MATRIX
Habitat
Suscept.
Rating
High
Moderate
Spread Components
Seed Source
Weeds Present or
Adjacent
Yes
No
Yes
No
Disturbance I Spread Vector
Timber Harvest (Existing Roads
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
No
High
Moderate
Low
High
Moderate
Low
High
Moderate
Low
High
Moderate
Low
High
Moderate
Low
High
Moderate
Low
High
Moderate
Low
High
Moderate
Low
Expansion
Probability
Rating
Extreme
High
Moderate
Hiqh
Moderate
Hiqh
Moderate
Low
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CUMULATIVE EFFECTS
Invasive plant dispersal and colonization are on-going processes. Interagency surveys
conducted over the past few years have revealed 15 noxious weeds or exotic species of
concern occupying over 30,000 acres within the South Fork of Clearwater River subbasin.
Individual infestations range in size from a few square feet to hundreds of acres. Even though
large block have not been surveyed, sufficient suitable locations including travel corridors,
burned areas, past timber treatments, trails, and private lands have been surveyed to indicate
an undesirable condition in the South Fork Clearwater River drainage.
Most infestations in the subbasin are associated with disturbed habitats, the transportation
network or dry breaklands in the lower subbasin. With increased disturbance within and outside
of the analysis area, opportunities for the spread of new invaders will increase. As vehicles,
equipment and humans move through the landscape, each has the potential to carry weed seed
to new and currently uninfested areas. This spread really has no limit other than the
susceptibility of the receiving habitats and the presence of a seed source. Given the inherent
susceptibility of habitats within the South Fork Clearwater River subbasin, the number of
infestations in the lower subbasin and the human activity level, spread is likely to continue.
Past and present disturbances associated with vegetation treatments added to reasonably
foreseeable actions would create a cumulative effect on weed expansion by the combination of
distribution of weed seed, ground disturbance and creation of spread pathways. The degree of
the cumulative effect would vary depending upon the number of entrances over time,
distribution of disturbance across the analysis area and acres disturbed. The impacts of
cumulative effects incurred by action alternatives to risk of weed expansion would be eased with
the implementation of preventive and weed management actions.
FOREST PLAN COMPLIANCE
Alternative D in the FEIS meets or exceeds Forest Plan summer habitat effectiveness objectives
for elk, thereby working toward support of continued wolf recovery. It adequately protects MA21
(moose winter habitat) through mitigations and adherence to Forest Plan standards.
Throughout the project area, 13 percent overall old growth will remain unharvested, exceeding
the minimum 10 percent Forest Plan standard for existing old growth. Additional replacement
old growth is also protected from harvest. Snag dependent species habitats are managed to
protect adequate numbers and sizes to ensure populations viability. Population viability of all
Management Indicator Species are maintained by this project through adherence to Forest Plan
standards and guidelines, landscape-scale analysis results, and is supported by the analysis
and conclusions in the "Habitat-based Terrestrial Vertebrate Populations Viability Related to the
American and Crooked River Project" (See project file).
The following Forestwide Standards for Range Resources, from among those listed on page II-
20 of the Nez Perce National Forest Plan, apply to this project and will be met as follows:
TABLE 3.142: FOREST PLAN STANDARDS FOR RANGE RESOURCES
STANDARD
NUMBER
RA-3
SUBJECT SUMMARY
Confine present infestations and prevent
establishment of new noxious weeds.
COMPLIANCE ACHIEVED BY
Chapter 2: Design criteria
(S3 08 (S3 (33 US OS
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3.11. WILDLIFE
INTRODUCTION
SCOPE OF THE ANALYSIS
The scope of this analysis and extent of cumulative effects varies depending on each species'
relative home range size. For most wildlife species, effects analyses will be limited to the
American and Crooked River watersheds. For certain species, the amount (acres) of potentially
suitable habitat that would be modified will be the primary indicator for analysis and will be
carried throughout the alternatives. Direct, indirect, and cumulative effects will be addressed
predominantly within the American and Crooked River watersheds; however, where applicable,
effects of the actions, as well as the affected area for cumulative effects, may extend beyond
these two watersheds, primarily extending into the adjacent Red River watershed.
The American River watershed encompasses an area approximately 59,000 acres in size and
extends from the confluence of the South Fork Clearwater River near Elk City to an area near
Beargrass Mountain. The Crooked River watershed encompasses an area approximately
45,000 acres in size and extends south from the South Fork Clearwater River to an area near
Orogrande Summit. The American and Crooked River project treatment area encompasses
approximately 27 percent of the American River watershed and 52 percent of the Crooked River
watershed.
REGULATORY FRAMEWORK
Analysis and evaluation of wildlife and terrestrial threatened, endangered, and sensitive (TES)
species data in this environmental impact statement (EIS) is based on direction contained in the
National Forest Management Act (NFMA), and its implementing regulations at 36 CFR 219; the
National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA); the Endangered Species Act (ESA), and conforms
with direction in the relatively new National Memorandum of Understanding #MOU-11130117-
028, which addresses Neotropical migrant land bird management.
The Nez Perce Forest Plan Amendment #23 amended habitat objectives for Elk Analysis Units
(EAUs). The Crooked and American Project area contains six EAUs with objectives ranging
from 50-75 percent. Refer to the effects analysis pertinent to each alternative in this section.
This analysis for wildlife tiers to the Nez Perce Forest Plan and EIS (USDA FS, 1987a and
1987c) and includes updated habitat information from the South Fork Clearwater River
Landscape Assessment (SFLA), which is incorporated by reference. Refer to the South Fork
Clearwater River Landscape Assessment (USDA FS, 1998a) and its accompanying Wildlife
Technical Report (USDA FS, 1998b) for a synthesis and summary of existing broad-scale
landscape habitat and terrestrial wildlife species conditions within and surrounding the analysis
area. Data from the SFLA refer to Ecological Response Units (ERU) that are 13 geographic
subdivisions of the South Fork Clearwater Subbasin, each composed of an individual watershed
or aggregates of watersheds that help characterize place-specific units and are a basis for
relating to ecological characteristics, processes and functions within the South Fork Subbasin.
Even though this analysis used the Timber Stand Management Reporting System (TSMRS), it
was the best, most extensive data available at that time for this broad scale assessment.
The South Fork Landscape Assessment (SFLA) (USDA FS 1998a) used the historic range of
variability as an indicator of whether the forest is resilient and naturally functioning. The HRV
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concept is based on the assumption that if landscape elements are sustained or restored to
within their HRV, viable populations would more likely be maintained and rates of extinction
would not exceed natural rates (See project file for further documentation of Historic Range of
Variability).
Historic Range of Variability (HRV) refers to the range of composition, structure, pattern and
function of landscape elements like streams and aquatic communities, and terrestrial plant and
animal communities in recent times (the last 2000 years) of relative climatic stability. It is here
considered to include the era prior to European settlement, but concurrent with Native American
occupation. This concept is based on the assumption that if elements are sustained or restored
to within their historic range of variability, viable populations will more likely be maintained and
rates of extinction will not exceed natural rates. It is an oversimplification if applied at the wrong
scale or without regard for critical information like the much reduced population levels of certain
threatened species. Actual information on historic conditions is inferred from more recent
(1500s-early 1900s) information and available research data.
The extent of historical habitat for various wildlife species chosen for analysis in the South Fork
Landscape Assessment (USDA FS, 1998a) was calculated by identifying acres of potential
habitat for each Vegetative Response Unit and Ecological Reporting Unit (geographic areas that
provide structure for describing where conditions occur and a sense of place). Since not all
acres would have supported certain wildlife species and would have possessed the preferred
vegetation and structure, the midpoint of the historic natural range of variation for various wildlife
habitat components was multiplied by the number of potential acres within the subbasin. The
end product was then termed "historical acres". Habitat for various wildlife species has
increased due to fire exclusion. While the quantity of habitat may have increased, habitat
quality very well could have decreased due to snag losses from firewood cutting, snag loss, and
loss of habitat heterogeneity from fire suppression, and loss of large diameter trees due to
timber harvest.
Analysis of effects for most species used relative comparisons of resultant effects of each
alternative and any past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future actions on the most
limiting habitat factors, habitat components, or species sensitivities known relative to the
analysis area or larger landscapes as appropriate. Wildlife information related to the amount of
existing habitat potentially available for certain sensitive and management indicator species was
modeled using the Region 1 Vegetation Mapping project (R1-VMP) to describe abundance and
distribution of wildlife habitat for American and Crooked River drainages. This product provided
a consistent and continuous geospatial database for existing vegetation and associated
attributes covering the northern Idaho and western Montana portions of the Forest Service's
Northern Region. Vegetation composition (habitat type and forest cover type), structural stages
(tree size classes and canopy cover), acres, and distribution were all considered in defining the
existing condition. These same criteria were used to determine the effects of the different
alternatives on species habitat.
The Nez Perce National Forest used the 2000-2002 Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) survey
to ascertain the abundance and distribution of certain wildlife, old growth and snag habitats at
the watershed (5th Hydrologic Unit Code - HUC), subbasin (4th HUC), and forest-wide. The FIA
survey is a general purpose, national inventory that is designed for strategic assessments and
produces statistical reports and analytical information on status and trends in forest vegetation
across the nation (Czaplewski et a/., 2003). Forest inventory and analysis data were used to
describe existing conditions for the following species and habitats: goshawk, fisher, pileated
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woodpecker, pine marten, old growth, and snags. Criteria used for data queries are located in
the project file.
In addition, this EIS incorporates the effects on terrestrial sensitive species (i.e., Biological
Evaluation), per direction pertaining to streamlining (USDA FS, 1995c). See the table titled,
"Wildlife Species Effects Determinations" (below), for a summary of environmental
consequences and conclusions for this analysis.
Elk Habitat- Outputs from the habitat suitability index model for north Idaho (Leege, T.A. 1984)
were used to analyze summer elk habitats. Very little of the analysis area occurs in elk winter
range.
Lynx - The analysis for Canadian lynx followed conservation measures and habitat criteria
direction from the Canada Lynx Conservation Assessment and Strategy (LCAS, 2000).
Analysis of effects to lynx or their habitat was done by lynx analysis units, as directed by the
Old Growth - Stand exam data was queried for stands meeting criteria from the North Idaho
Zone Old Growth methodology, as well as Forest Plan (Appendix N) definitions. Stands
meeting all criteria for existing old growth were reviewed using ARC/CIS system to ensure they
have not been harvested or thinned in a manner that may have compromised their habitat
effectiveness. Stands that met all criteria for replacement old growth were similarly verified.
Unsampled stands were reviewed using the "Large Tree 2002" ARC/CIS screen (stands with
large trees in- 1935 and not since harvested or burned), and compared against known old
growth stands using tree size, canopy, and common canopy texture as a guide before being
considered old growth. These were also verified to be present on the landscape using the
ARC/CIS tool along with aerial photos.
To develop a basis for estimating the possible amount and location of current old-growth, old
aerial photos were compared to current stand data. Areas with medium and large trees were
mapped using circa 1930 photos. Where harvest or fires have occurred since 1934, those
areas were removed to get the current remaining large trees. Those areas that currently have
large trees, as well as in the 1930s (minus harvest and fires), could potentially be considered
old growth today. Both Forest Plan standards and North Idaho guidelines were used to assess
old growth conditions within the American and Crooked River watersheds. In addition, large
trees from 1935 that have had harvest over the years were also used to assess impacts to large
trees and potential old growth areas.
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TABLE 3.143 -WILDLIFE SPECIES EFFECTS DETERMINATIONS
(Includes Summary BA/BE conclusions)
Primary
Status
Threatened and
Endangered Species
Sensitive Species
Species
and
Status
Canada Lynx
(T)1
Gray Wolf
(T/MIS)
Bald Eagle
(T/MIS)
Northern
Goshawk
(MIS)1
Boreal Toad
Harlequin
Duck
Fisher
(S/MIS)
Northern
leopard frog1
Wolverine
Townsend's
bat
Coeur d'
Alene
salamander
Flammulated
Owl
White-
headed
Woodpecker
Guild/
Priority
Habitat
Early-serai
Security
Early-serai
Security
Early-serai
Late-serai /
Old Growth
Aquatic
Aquatic
Late-
seral/Old
Growth
Security
Aquatic
Security
Caves
Aquatic
P. Pine
dependant
P. Pine
dependant
A
No Effect
Not likely to
jeopardize;
(no habitat
improvement)
May affect,
but not likely
to adversely
affect
No
measurable
effects; no
direct loss of
nesting
habitats.
No Impact
No Impact
No impacts
on old
growth; road
densities
remain
unchanged:
May impact
individuals...
No
measurable
impacts
No Impact
BCD E
May affect, but not likely to adversely affect
Not likely to jeopardize continued existence of the species; would lead
to modest improvements in longer term wolf prey habitats related to
reduced open road densities
May affect, but not likely to adversely affect; indirect effects to
downstream aquatic habitats
Old growth maintained. Minor negative impacts to habitat.
If this species were still a sensitive species, the determination would
have been may impact individuals or habitat, but would not likely result
in a trend toward federal listing or reduced viability for the population or
species.
May impact individuals or habitat, but would not I kely result in a trend
toward federal listing or reduced viability for the population or species
May impact individuals or habitat, but would not likely result in a trend
toward federal listing or reduced viability for the population or species
May impact individuals or habitat, but would not likely result in a trend
toward federal listing or reduced viability for the population or species;
additional fragmentation of landscape habitats
No measurable impacts.
If this species were still a sensitive species, the determination would
have been may impact individuals or habitat, but would not likely result
in a trend toward federal listing or reduced viability for the population or
species.
May impact individuals or habitat, but would not likely result in a trend
toward federal listing or reduced viability for the population or species
No Impact
No Impact
No Impact
No Impact
Since the draft was released, there have been changes to the Regional Forester's sensitive species list (October 28,
2004 - USDA FS, 2004b) for the Nez Perce National Forest. The northern goshawk, lynx, black-backed woodpecker,
and northern leopard frog have been dropped and the black swift, fringed myotis, pygmy nuthatch, and ringneck
snake have been added to the list. The northern goshawk, lynx (threatened), black-backed woodpecker, and
northern leopard frog are still included and discussed in this analysis. However, an effects determination is not
necessary for the northern goshawk, black-backed woodpecker, or northern leopard frog.
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Primary
Status
in
-------
American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
EXISTING CONDITION AND ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
3.11.1. INDICATOR 1 - THREATENED OR ENDANGERED SPECIES
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service species listings (File #106.0000 1-4-04 -SP-254, dated
March 5, 2004 and subsequent updated list December 8, 2004, #1-4-05-SP-120) were used for
this analysis. Listed or proposed species that may occur on the Nez Perce Forest include gray
wolf (endangered/1 OJ), Canadian lynx (threatened), and bald eagle (threatened). Due to lack of
occurrence of the grizzly bear on the Forest, the Fish & Wildlife Service has temporarily
released the Forest from analysis requirements, thus grizzly bear and its habitat will not be
discussed.
WOLF
EXISTING CONDITION
Wolves were reintroduced into north central Idaho beginning in 1995. Local wolf populations
have since multiplied dramatically on the Nez Perce National Forest and throughout the state.
Based on most recent monitoring results, north Idaho wolf populations continue to increase to
meet or exceed local recovery population goals. A more complete discussion on wolves and
their habitat use and conservation needs on the larger landscape scale are available by
reference in the South Fork Clearwater River Landscape Assessment (USDA FS, 1998a, p
103). Within the analysis area, one new pack denning site was documented in the American
River drainage and a newly discovered rendezvous site in the Crooked River drainage was
detected by the Nez Perce Tribal Wolf Recovery personnel in the summer of 2003. In
September 2003, at least five packs were confirmed on the Red River Ranger District (Seim,
2003). Across the landscape of the Nez Perce National Forest, wolf packs are active and
thriving (FY2002 Nez Perce National Forest Plan Monitoring and Evaluation Report - Wolf
Populations).
There are currently a total of at least 20 active packs in the Central Idaho Wolf Recovery Area.
The Wolf Reintroduction Final Rule (Federal Register Nov. 22, 1994) stated that, "when six or
more breeding pairs are established in an experimental population area, no land-use restrictions
may be employed outside of national parks or national wildlife refuges, unless wolf populations
fail to maintain positive growth rates toward population recovery levels for 2 consecutive years".
Currently, wolf populations locally are increasing.
Based on most recent Forest Plan populations monitoring and statewide monitoring results, wolf
populations are at or exceed recovery levels now. The Red River Ranger District is home to
five confirmed wolf packs: Red River pack, O'Hara Point pack, Selway pack, Gospel Hump
pack, and Magruder pack. Relative to the American-Crooked proposal, only one wolf den exists
in the analysis area. The nearest harvest unit is just over two miles to the east. Though
denning and rearing take place in early spring/summer, proximity of the harvest unit and related
activities is not expected to interfere with denning or rearing at this location. In addition, the "no
land-use restrictions may be employed" provision of the Wolf Reintroduction Final Rule (Federal
Register Nov. 22, 1994) is now applicable to wolves throughout the entire Nez Perce Forest
including the project area.
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
Based on available information, the analysis criteria for wolves and their habitat for this project
is relative impact on ungulate prey (elk) habitat potentials. Watershed restoration actions, and
post-harvest slash treatments using fire are not expected to negatively impact wolves, elk or
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their habitats considerably regardless of alternative, except that fire use would help cycle plant
nutrients back to the soil increasing vigor and nutritive quality of post-burn forage plants.
Noxious weeds that could be pioneer burned and harvested sites would negatively impact elk
foraging areas by displacing desirable plants, but this would not be expected to be sufficiently
extensive or widespread enough to be of major significance under any alternatives.
ALTERNATIVE A - NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
Alternative A would have few direct effects on wolves, but moderately high levels of motorized
access in both drainages would continue to limit elk habitat effectiveness and thus quality prey
habitat in the short term. Indirectly, as dead lodgepole trees begin to fall and eventually
increase fuels buildup, the indirect effect of no action in some areas may eventually begin to
discourage elk and deer prey from using the units because of difficulty of travel and the
appearance of these habitats as "entrapment" areas. In the longer term, the 'no action'
alternative would increase the probability that untreated sites would add cumulatively to overall
fuel loads, increasing total landscape acres of fuel loading; As a result of fuel continuity, more
extensive, stand-replacing fires may become more likely which may eventually put elk 'hiding
cover in short supply (Refer to fire effects analysis for more details).
ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, AND E
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
Action alternatives would directly provide modest reductions in motorized access in the
American River portion of the analysis area, but access would remain essentially unchanged
from Alternative A in the Crooked River portion of the area. Alternative D harvests the most
acreage and alternatives D and E reduce motorized access to the highest levels. Therefore,
alternative D does the most to improve wolf prey habitats, particularly in the American River
portion of the analysis area. In the Crooked River portion, the overall habitat impact is similar to
Alternatives B and C, due principally to modest levels of motorized access reduction. Overall,
prey habitat effectiveness would remain slightly improved over Alternative A, except for
moderate improvements in the Kirk's Fork elk analysis area. Indirect effects would be similar to,
but slightly less impactive than those of Alternative A. Alternatives D and E would yield the
highest overall wolf prey habitat effectiveness principally due to highest levels of motorized
access restrictions in both drainages, although actual harvest and ungulate forage treatment
acres under alternative E are lowest of any action alternative.
Timber harvest and burning in some stands would reduce available cover and connectivity in
the short term. Thinned stands might enhance hiding cover quality over the long term. Under
each alternative, certain portions of the project area would improve elk habitat effectiveness. In
these areas, habitat improvement might increase the prey base for gray wolf. Because of
disturbance and displacement, there could be a minor effect on the habitat use patterns of prey
species, but their population levels or availability as prey would not be affected. Other prey
populations, such as small mammals, would not be affected. Creating early serai communities
could improve habitat for prey species such as elk, deer, and moose.
The temporary increase of human activity in the planning area associated with harvest and
vegetative treatments could increase the possibility of human-wolf interactions. The
construction of temporary roads and reconstructed roads could displace wolves and/or their
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prey during construction and use. As mitigation, all current access closures would be
maintained as part of the proposed project. Road decommissioning would help reduce human
intrusion long-term.
Based on the nature and duration of the proposed project, the mortality risk for wolves would
remain low. Key wolf habitat areas, such as den sites, rendezvous sites, or whelping sites,
would not be affected outside the project area.
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS (INCLUDES FORESEEABLE FUTURE ACTIONS)
Alternative A would have relatively little immediate cumulative effect on wolves or their habitats
since no habitat-altering impacts would be directly added to the reading, harvesting, human
disturbances, and other vegetative impacts imposed by past management. However, indirect
effects of tree deaths and unabated fuel buildups, when added to existing cumulative effects
would negatively affect wolf prey habitats particularly during post-wildfire recovery. An effects
determination of "not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of the species or result in
destruction or adverse modification of proposed critical habitat" is concluded.
All action alternatives would have moderate immediate cumulative effects because harvests
would be directly added to the reading, harvesting, human disturbances, and other vegetative
impacts imposed by past management. Longer term cumulative effects may be less impactive
than Alternative A because of modest fuel reduction and staged regeneration of harvested
areas in the event of eventual wildfires.
Reducing the exposure of gray wolves and ungulate prey to humans is a factor in maintaining
high quality big game habitat and reducing the risk of incidental wolf mortality. The project area
contains established human activities and developments including roads, timber harvest, home
sites, grazing, and recreational opportunities. In addition, the American and Crooked River
watershed areas receive hunting pressure for deer, elk, and moose, which not only affects the
wolf prey base, but increases the number of wolf-human interactions. The most important
cumulative effect to gray wolf recovery in Idaho is incidental mortalities from shooting, trapping,
and vehicle strikes. This probability increases with increased road access. Road
decommissioning would take place under the proposed project, and existing road access
closures would remain in effect. Human access, available cover, and public attitudes largely
determine mortality risk to wolves.
Logging will likely continue on private land. Other projects in the area could affect ungulates,
small mammals, and their habitats. If the end result of these activities is the restoration of more
stable vegetative patterns and natural or prescribed fire processes, these actions could help
restore declining forage availability, productivity, and nutritional quality important to big game
species. Alternatively, if these actions result in a more fragmented landscape with poor
interspersion of foraging and hiding cover, big game populations could decline, reducing the
suitability of the area for gray wolves. Administrative uses of closed roads for reforestation or
road-related work may affect wolf use of the area. These and other activities such as routine
road maintenance, watershed improvements, trail reconstruction, and measures to control
weeds are foreseeable and scheduled to occur. Across the analysis area, recreational uses,
including hunting, will continue. A Forest Service livestock allotment occurs in the southern end
of the analysis area, and grazing occurs on private land. There has been no indication of
wolves preying on stock in this area, and no predator control efforts are ongoing or anticipated.
No geographic or manufactured barriers exist within the analysis area that would preclude wolf
movements to adjacent populations.
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The project proposal is consistent with the gray wolf management strategies identified in the
South Fork Clearwater River Landscape Assessment (USDA FS, 1998a), in that activities would
help maintain ungulate populations and minimize risks of human-induced wolf mortality. It
would be unlikely that individual wolves would be impacted by project activities, and effects on
wolf populations are expected to be small to negligible at the project, watershed, and Forest
levels. An effects determination of "not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of the
species or result in destruction or adverse modification of proposed critical habitat" is concluded
for Alternatives B, C, D, and E.
Within Central Idaho, total confirmed wolf packs now easily exceed 15 (http://mountain-
prairie.fws.qov/woif/annua5reports.html The Rocky Mountain Wolf Recovery 2003 Annual
Report stated that 345 wolves occupy the state of Idaho. Based on local sightings, sign and
formal monitoring results, wolves are abundant, widely distributed on the Forest, and increasing
numbers of reports suggest local populations of wolves continue growing. All alternatives
support conditions necessary to maintain local wolf subpopulation viability (See Habitat-based
Terrestrial Vertebrate Populations Viability related to the American/Crooked River Project -
Appendix J).
LYNX
EXISTING CONDITION
Canada lynx have been federally listed as a threatened species since March 2000. Although
lynx have sometimes been portrayed as a late-successional forest species, lynx appear to be
more closely associated with a mosaic of late- and early-successional stages (Koehler and
Aubry 1994, pages 86-89).
No formal surveys for actual lynx occupation on the Forest or the analysis area have been
completed to date, but confirmed reports and unconfirmed sightings of lynx presence have been
documented within the Forest boundary. Lynx analysis unit (LAD) delineations and mapping of
lynx habitat has been completed for the entire Forest, including the project area, according to
Lynx Conservation Assessment and Strategy guidelines (citation).
Most of the American and Crooked river project analysis area contains no designated lynx
habitats (refer to the updated lynx habitat map dated January, 2004). However, the overall
project analysis area does partially overlap portions of two large lynx analysis units (LAUs
#3020306 and #3050401) that may be partially affected by some of the harvest units or project
actions (See Table 3.144 for existing habitat conditions).
TABLE 3.144 - THE NO ACTION (ALTERNATIVE A) HABITAT CONDITIONS AND ACREAGE WITHIN THESE
LAUS ARE LISTED BELOW:
LAU
3020306
3050401
% Denning
18
27
% Foraging
81
72
% Unsuitable
<1
<1
Total Habitat
Acres
19764
25469
Drainage
American
Crooked
The South Fork Clearwater River Landscape Assessment management theme for both the
American and Crooked River drainages recommends "producing early serai habitat" as a very
high priority, and identifies treatment objectives that include "creating forest openings by fire or
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timber harvest." From the perspective of the landscape assessment, the goal to benefit lynx
habitat would be to "create dense stands of deciduous brush and young conifers, attractive to
snowshoe hare." (USDA FS 1998a).
Despite substantial past harvesting in the analysis area, advanced regeneration of trees and
cover in plantations has maintained habitat connectivity and travel corridors as defined for lynx
in the analysis area. Habitat management for lynx primarily addresses maintenance or
improvement of vegetation structure for lynx and their prey.
Lynx are considered relatively tolerant of human presence and activities. Preliminary
information (Lynx Conservation Assessment & Strategy 2000, pp 7-10), suggests that lynx may
not avoid roads, except at high traffic volumes. Therefore, at this time, there is little compelling
evidence to recommend management of road density to conserve lynx.
.Several important landscape vegetation limitations must be followed when conducting timber
harvest and fuel reduction actions in designated lynx habitats in order to comply with standards
and guidelines outlined in the Lynx Conservation Assessment and Strategy (LCAS 2000). LAUs
must maintain at least 10 percent denning habitat, unsuitable acres cannot exceed the 30
percent maximum threshold of total habitat within an LAU, and no more than 15 percent of the
suitable habitat can be converted to unsuitable within a decade.
Both LAUs within the project area currently hold more than 10 percent denning habitat and
neither LAU is near the 30 percent maximum unsuitable habitat threshold. For this reason,
since denning habitat is relatively abundant, and unsuitable habitat acres (before planned
harvest), are well below LCAS thresholds, there.is ample opportunity for creation of lynx
foraging habitat while staying within all LCAS guidelines. The analysis criteria for lynx and their
habitats will be relative amounts of suitable condition lynx habitats that are converted to early
serai foraging habitat condition while meeting all LCAS measures.
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
The analysis criteria for lynx will be related to desirable acres of mature forest within designated
lynx habitats converted to early serai foraging habitat for lynx. None of the alternatives treats
sizeable amounts of designated lynx habitats or converts sizeable acres to foraging habitats.
Noxious weeds, road decommissioning, watershed restoration actions, and post-harvest slash
treatments using fire are not expected to impact lynx or their habitats considerably regardless of
alternative, because of the limited extent and amount of habitat impacted in the analysis area.
ALTERNATIVE A - NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
No vegetative treatments would occur with this alternative, and the overall existing condition
would remain unchanged, at least in the short-term. The 'no action' alternative neither affects
lynx directly, nor converts any acres to early serai habitat. This alternative will have relatively
little if any indirect effects on lynx or their habitats. With no action, early serai stages will
continue succeeding to older stages and fire risks will increase. Eighteen (18) percent and 27
percent denning habitat are maintained in LAUs 3020306 and 3050401 respectively, well above
the 10 percent required minimum cited in the Lynx Conservation Assessment and Strategy
(LCAS 2000).
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At present, some of the stands in the project area have a dead or dying overstory of lodgepole
pine, with grand fir and spruce seedlings regenerating in the understory. In some cases, these
seedlings and saplings have become dense enough and tall enough to provide habitat for
snowshoe hares. With continued fire suppression and no vegetative treatments, seedling and
sapling trees would eventually grow out of the reach of snowshoe hares, and self-pruning would
reduce the amount of horizontal cover. The amount and distribution of available lynx foraging
and snowshoe hare habitats would continue to decline. Open patches would decrease in size
as ingrowth fills and matures in old openings. Stands with small to large-sized trees would
continue to mature, providing potential denning and travel habitat for lynx. Given enough time,
these stands could develop gaps and microsites that would provide suitable areas for hares and
therefore potential foraging habitat for lynx; but overall, succession would result in the decline of
the denning/foraging habitat mosaic important to lynx.
As the mountain pine beetle epidemic continues, areas that currently provide cover will become
too open to serve that function. As numerous dead trees fall to the ground, downed logs,
shading from snags, and lack of seed sources may delay the regeneration of new trees relative
to harvested areas. New, early serai patches would develop in those areas in which seedlings
are able to establish themselves, and eventually these sites would develop shrub and tree
growth sufficient to provide habitat for hares. In mixed conifer stands with a lodgepole pine
component, the loss of beetle-killed trees would create micro-openings and gaps in the canopy
that, through time, could provide potential foraging habitat. Those trees that fall to the ground
would provide potential denning sites.
The long-term impacts of continued fire suppression would lead to an increased likelihood of
stand-replacing fire. If wildfires were to occur, forage areas could be replenished, but potential
denning habitat could be lost.
COMMON TO ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES
In all the action alternatives, treatments would not be implemented in RHCAs or in allocated old
growth or replacement old growth stands. These stands would continue to provide potential
denning and travel habitat. Succession would continue in these areas and these stands could
develop gaps and microsites suitable for hares and/or foraging lynx.
Timber harvest and silvicultural prescriptions would move treated stands into a regenerating
condition, thus increasing the amount of potential lynx foraging habitat available in each LAD.
As discussed under alternative A, many of these stands may eventually constitute snowshoe
hare habitat if succession would be allowed to continue.
In mixed conifer stands, thinning treatments would retain large trees and improve growing
conditions for those trees remaining after harvest. For stands with a relatively small lodgepole
pine component, silvicultural prescriptions would be designed to maintain 30-50 percent canopy
closure and would minimize disturbance to high-stem-density, regenerating understory shrubs
and trees. Most large diameter logs would be left on site, and smaller diameter logs may be left
in select areas in some units.
Alternatives B and C would modestly improve habitat security compared to Alternative A, by
reducing motorized access particularly in the American River portion of the analysis area; but
the Crooked River portion would remain the same as Alternative A. Alternatives D and E would
improve habitat security to the highest level and positive effects would accrue to both the
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American and Crooked River portions of the analysis area compared to Alternatives A, B, and
C.
Individual lynx may use the project area. The temporary increase in human activity as a result
of project implementation would increase the possibility of human-lynx interactions and could
disturb, displace, or disrupt individual lynx in the planning area. However, no long-term adverse
harassment or potential for mortality is anticipated to result from project implementation.
A summary of effects on designated lynx habitat by alternative is listed below.
TABLE 3.145 - SUMMARY OF EFFECTS ON LAU 3020306 (AMERICAN RIVER)
LAU 3020306
Acres Denning Treated
% denning retained
Acres Foraging treated
Total % converted to early serai
Total % unsuitable habitat in LAU
Ait A
0
18
0
0
<1
Alt. B
16
18
31
0.23
<1
Alt. C
16
18
117
0.67
1
Alt.D
47
17
204
1.3
2
Alt. E
5
18
14
0.09
<1
TABLE 3.146 - SUMMARY OF EFFECTS ON LAU 3050401 (CROOKED RIVER)
LAU 3050401
Acres Denning Treated
% denning retained
Acres Foraging treated
Total % converted to early serai
Total % unsuitable habitat in LAU
Alt. A
0
27
0
0
<1
Alt. B
209
25
759
3.8
4
Alt. C
186
25
787
3.8
4
Alt. D
253
24
947
4.7
5
Ait. E
143
26
627
3.0
3
ALTERNATIVE B
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
Alternative B harvests within 16 acres of lynx denning habitat and 31 acres of lynx foraging
habitat, converting approximately 0.2 percent of the suitable habitat in LAU 3020306 to
unsuitable. In LAU 3050401, 209 acres of denning and 759 acres of foraging habitat are
targeted for harvest converting less than 4 percent of the lynx habitat to unsuitable.
Substantially more than the minimum 10 percent denning habitat is maintained in both LAUs.
All conservation measures cited in the LCAS are met.
ALTERNATIVE C
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
Alternative C would harvest 16 acres of denning and 117 acres of foraging habitat in LAU
3020306, converting about 0.7 percent to unsuitable. In LAU 3050401, 186 acres of denning
and 787 acres of foraging habitat would be harvested converting less than 4 percent to
unsuitable. Substantially more than the 10 percent minimum denning habitat would be
maintained in both LAUs. All conservation measured cited in the LCAS are met.
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ALTERNATIVE D
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
ono WOU'd harV6St 47 acres of dennin9 and 204 acres of foraging habitat in LAU
3020306, converting about 1 percent of the habitat to unsuitable. In LAU 3050401 253 acres of
denning and 947 acres of foraging habitat would be harvested converting a little'fewer than 5
percent to unsuitable. More than the 10 percent minimum denning habitat would be maintained
in both LAUs. Alternative D effects would overall be similar to Alternative E because of similar
post-project access restrictions on motorized use of roads. All conservation measures cited in
the LCAS are met.
ALTERNATIVE E
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
Alternative E harvests within 5 acres of lynx denning habitat and 14 acres of lynx foraging
habitat, converting less than 0.1 percent of the suitable habitat in LAU 3020306 to unsuitable
In LAU 3050401, 143 acres of denning and 627 acres of foraging habitat are targeted for
harvest converting nearly 3 percent of the -lynx habitat to unsuitable. Substantially more than
minimum denning habitat is maintained in both LAUs. All conservation measured cited in the
LCAS are met.
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS (INCLUDES FORESEEABLE FUTURE ACTIONS)
Fire, wind, insects, and disease have played an important, historic role in maintaining the
mosaic of forest successional stages that provide habitat for both snowshoe hare and lynx
With the advent of fire suppression, vegetative mosaics and species composition have been
altered and may have reduced the quality and quantity of habitat for snowshoe hares Denning
habitat is becoming more extensive at the expense of foraging habitat. Timber harvest in the
project area, while keeping pace with a typical fire regime in terms of cumulative acres of stand
regeneration (USDA FS 2003), has altered the distribution of lynx habitat and has left
numerous small (<40 acre), uniformly shaped patches. Suitable denning and travel habitat has
been harvested or thinned across national forest and private lands, generally leaving low
amounts of snags and large downed wood. Overmature stands that have much structural
diversity and numerous gaps and microsites, such as typically occur in old growth forests are
less available in the project area because of past timber activities that targeted older larger
trees. Initially, openings created in the forest have a negative impact on both hares and lynx
through the reduction in cover and browse species for hares. Eventually, these areas produce
good foraging and hunting habitat (after about seven years (Koehler and Brittell 1990).
Road systems have increased human access and the potential for human-induced mortality
from vehicle strikes or accidental shooting/trapping. Up until 1996, people were allowed to trap
lynx in the project area, potentially impacting population sizes or demographics. Firewood
cutting along open roads has decreased downed logs important for lynx and their prey species
Groomed snowmobile routes overlap many of the watershed's roads and trails, and there is at
least some snowmobile use of non-groomed trails (USDA FS 2003). Snowmobile tracks can
allow other predators access into areas they ordinarily could not use because of deep snow,
and these predators could compete with lynx for snowshoe hare or other prey.
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Private and public land timber harvest and road construction, fire suppression, livestock grazing,
home development, and recreational activities are likely to continue. Cumulatively, these
actions have and will affect the distribution of lynx and lynx habitat across the landscape.
The 'no action' alternative will not add any measurable cumulative effects to lynx or their
habitats since no habitat-altering impacts will be added to the reading, harvesting, human travel
disturbances, and other vegetative impacts imposed by past and present management. The 'no
action' alternative would temporarily protect the integrity of forested land in the project area, but
would contribute cumulatively to habitat imbalances for lynx longer term. This alternative meets
all LCAS measures. The determination for lynx would be "no effect".
Relatively minimal acres of designated lynx habitat are impacted by the action alternatives.
Given the current condition of the habitat due to past fire impacts, harvests, reading, human
disturbance, motorized travel and other land-disturbing activities, these alternatives add few
positive or negative effects cumulatively to the habitat conditions for lynx.
All of the action alternatives would begin to address cumulative changes in patch and landscape
mosaics by incrementally increasing the amount of early serai habitat in the project area while
maintaining denning habitats, RHCAs, and old growth areas. The project would have few
adverse effects at the project and watershed levels and might improve conditions for lynx
through time. At the Forest level and across the range of the species, project effects would be
expected to be negligible.
A determination of effect for lynx as a listed species would be "may affect, but not likely to
adversely affect" for alternatives B, C, D, and E.
BALD EAGLE
EXISTING CONDITION
No bald eagle nesting is known to take place anywhere on the Nez Perce Forest or within the
South Fork Clearwater River subbasin. Bald eagles use the major river corridors at lower
elevations of the Nez Perce Forest primarily during winter or early spring. Most South Fork
Clearwater River eagles use the lower elevations from Mill Creek to Lightning Creek due to
availability of ungulate carcasses there and relatively ice-free river conditions during winter.
Sites most commonly used are at least 20 miles downstream from the analysis area. If
available, bald eagles will also use fish and waterfowl on wintering areas. Due to ice-up of the
South Fork Clearwater River at higher elevations in winter and lack of fish and waterfowl
availability, relatively little or no use of the analysis area drainages occurs by bald eagles during
most winters. A more complete discussion of bald eagle ecology and use of the Forest are
referenced in the South Fork Clearwater River Landscape Assessment (USDA FS 1998a, pp
102-103).
Forest Plan monitoring of bald eagle populations over nearly 20 years indicates the local
population trends on the Forest are stable or slightly increasing (USDS FS, 2004c).
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
There are no lakes in the analysis area large enough to support bald eagles. There are no
known concentrated feeding or roosting sites in the analysis area. Bald eagles are regularly
seen perched along the South Fork Clearwater River during the winter season. Bald eagles
principally utilize ungulate carrion during winter occupation of the major river corridors on the
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Forest. Increasing and maintaining early serai habitat conditions on ungulate winter ranges is a
high priority however very little winter range occurs within the project area. Based on winter use
patterns of bald eagles on the Forest, to be effective, winter range improvements which may
benefit eagles need to take place at elevations well below and downstream from the analysis
area. For this reason, there is relatively little direct relationship between planned activities in
American or Crooked River drainages and bald eagles or their habitats. Noxious weeds road
decommissioning, watershed restoration actions, and post-harvest slash treatments using fire
are not expected to impact bald eagles or their habitats considerably regardless of alternative
because of the extent and habitat impact in the analysis area.
ALTERNATIVE A - NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
This alternative will have no direct and few indirect effects on bald eagles or their habitats
Indirect risks of high intensity, broad scale fires due to fuel-loading and high intensity fires will
remain and could indirectly impact downstream water quality and fish habitats
ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, AND E
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
Action alternatives would have no direct impacts on bald eagles or their habitats Downstream
changes in water quality in the South Fork Clearwater River due to harvests, restoration actions
roads and other actions would have relatively minimal impact on bald eagle foraging habitats.
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS (INCLUDES FORESEEABLE FUTURE ACTIONS)
The indirect and cumulative effects of planned activities on water quality and fish habitats
downstream from the analysis area are expected to impose only minor, limited cumulative
impacts on foraging habitats (i.e., potential secondary winter food sources - anadromous
fishes), but the magnitude of these impacts are considered very limited.
Aquatic resources in the American and Crooked River watersheds and the South Fork
Clearwater River have undergone substantial physical changes from human disturbances such
as dredge mining, timber harvest, road construction, domestic livestock grazing home
construction and private land development, agriculture, fires, and fire suppression' It is
generally accepted that water quality and habitat in the South Fork Clearwater River is in a
degraded condition, both from sediment and temperature impacts (USDA FS, 1998a). These
conditions have likely affected bald eagle numbers and winter use of the South Fork.
Past timber harvest, fire, fire suppression, and mining activity have altered habitat
characteristics in the project area by reducing the amount and distribution of large and medium
trees, snags, and down wood, and by creating numerous, small patches across the landscape.
These changes have affected bald eagle ungulate prey species. Prior to fire suppression and
timber management, elk and deer populations were dependent upon natural disturbances to
create openings that provided the early successional growth they favor for foraging. Elk
population numbers in the project area and across Game Unit 15 (which includes the South
Fork Clearwater River) are declining. Other projects may also modify ungulate habitat, which in
turn could affect population numbers on big game winter ranges thus affecting overwintering
bald eagles.
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The project proposal is consistent with the bald eagle management strategies identified in the
South Fork Clearwater River Landscape Assessment (USDA FS, 1998a) in that activities would
encourage restoration of anadromous fisheries. It would be unlikely that individual bald eagles
would be impacted by project activities, and bald eagle populations are not expected to be
affected at the project, watershed, or Forest levels.
A determination of effect for bald eagle as a listed species would be, "may affect, but not likely
to adversely affect" for Alternatives A, B, C, D, and E.
3.11.2. INDICATOR 2 - SENSITIVE SPECIES
FLAMMULATED OWL
EXISTING CONDITION
Flammulated owls are very small, secretive owls that are widely distributed in western 'North
America. They migrate seasonally to and from the tropics but return to North America during
breeding season. They feed on aerial insects (principally moths, beetles, and grasshoppers)
and are restricted to forests of mid- and large-sized trees. Flammulated owls prefer ponderosa
pine and/or Douglas-fir forests and the insectivorous prey available in the more open,
grass/forb/shrub subcanopy layers in the understory.
High quality flammulated owl habitat is nonexistent within the American River Ecological
Response Unit (ERU). Flammulated owl habitat is extremely limited in its extent (an estimated
161 acres) within the Crooked River ERU (USDA FS 1998b). Habitat for flammulated owls
within Crooked River ERU is highly isolated and is not considered extensive enough to support
a distinct breeding population. The very limited extent and lack of connectedness of these small
patches to other habitat patches on the Forest, essentially preclude managing it for this species
to any meaningful degree within the Crooked River drainage (USDA FS 1998b - Wildlife
Technical Report).
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
No flammulated owls have been observed or otherwise reported from within either the American
or Crooked River drainages to date. No alternatives directly or indirectly impact low elevation
stands of ponderosa pine that may be considered flammulated owl habitat. In reviewing the
amount of harvest in more a xeric, mixed conifer cover type that this species could potentially
occur in, only one acre of mixed conifers containing ponderosa pine could be harvested. While
pockets of small-diameter ponderosa pine trees within some mixed conifer stands may be
thinned or individual dead/dying pines along haul routes may be harvested, these components
are not part of lower elevation pine stands suitable in elevation for this species, and no large
diameter ponderosa pine are being considered for harvest. No indirect or cumulative negative
effects of the project have been identified relative to this bird or its habitats. For this reason, no
impacts are projected for flammulated owls under any alternative and they will not be analyzed
or discussed further in this document. The sensitive species determination for flammulated owl
would be "no impact" for all alternatives. None of the project alternatives negatively affect
conditions necessary for species viability (See Habitat-based Terrestrial Vertebrate Populations
Viability related to the American/Crooked River Project, in project files).
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WHITE-HEADED WOODPECKER
EXISTING CONDITION
White-headed woodpeckers range from southern British Columbia to southern California and
western Nevada. Their preferred habitat is characterized by open-grown, fire-climax, mature to
old growth ponderosa pine, but mixed ponderosa pine/Douglas-fir forests are also used where
pure stands of ponderosa pine are absent. Across the larger landscape white-headed
woodpeckers are not considered to be regular residents anywhere within the American River
and Crooked River drainages, or even within the larger landscape of the South Fork Clearwater
River subbasin. High quality white-headed woodpecker habitat is nonexistent within the
American River ERU. It is extremely limited in its extent within the Crooked River ERU (USDA
FS 1998b). Habitat for white-headed woodpecker within Crooked River ERU is highly isolated
and is not considered extensive enough to support a distinct breeding population The very
limited extent and lack of connectedness of these small patches to other habitat patches on the
Forest, essentially preclude managing it for this species to any meaningful degree within the
Crooked River drainage (USDA FS 1998b).
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
No white-headed woodpeckers have been observed or otherwise reported from within either the
American or Crooked River drainages to date. Low elevation Ponderosa pine is not planned for
harvest as part of the project objectives. While restoration of fire dependent conifer species (i.e.
ponderosa pine) is a secondary part of the overall strategy of the project in mixed conifer
stands, these treatments will have no impact on white-headed habitats. Individual dead or dying
small-diameter ponderosa pine that may be harvested from along haul routes would be
considered components of "mixed conifer" stands, and do not constitute ponderosa pine habitat
types. No direct, indirect or cumulative negative effects have been identified for any alternative
relative to this bird or its habitats. For this reason, no impacts are predicted for white-headed
woodpecker under any alternative, thus white-headed woodpecker will not be analyzed or
discussed further in this document. Further, the project does not negatively affect habitat
conditions necessary to maintain local sub-populations viability (See Habitat-based Terrestrial
Vertebrate Populations Viability related to the American/Crooked River Project, in project files).
BOREAL TOAD
EXISTING CONDITION
Across its range, the boreal toad is generally found near some form of water and inhabits a
variety of habitats from sagebrush desert to montane meadows. Boreal toads are relatively
uncommon throughout Idaho and Montana. Global amphibian declines and similarly timed
region-wide declines in this species have occurred in recent, years and the causes are likely
related, but a complete explanation of population decline causes are not completely certain.
Substantial local evidence from Montana suggests that the Chytrid fungus (Batrachochytrium
dendrobatidis), acting alone or synergistically with other stressors, is a potential cause and
should be regarded as a threat (Maxell, B.A., et. al. tech. paper 2003). Available information is
limited concerning the abundance and distribution of boreal toads within the South Fork
Clearwater River subbasin or the analysis area.
At the larger scale, most reports of habitat occupation by boreal toads within the South Fork
Clearwater River subbasin have been at considerably lower elevations and in warmer, dryer
habitat types than any of those within the analysis area. A 1997 amphibian survey' along
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American River (above and below Mane's Place), found no boreal toads. Likewise, harvest-site
pre-project surveys in 2003 revealed spotted frogs in wet areas commonly, but no boreal toads
were observed, which indicates that boreal toad occupation of the analysis area is rare or
extremely limited at best. However, two lone observations of boreal toads were reported on
dryer upland locations near Elk City during May of 2001 by a Forest Service biologist (Seim,
2004). Implementation of PACFISH riparian habitat protection standards has aided protection
of potential breeding habitats for this toad throughout the project area.
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
The analysis criteria for the boreal toad will be relative impacts on aquatic habitats, since these
are considered key to reproduction. Noxious weeds, road decommissioning, watershed
restoration actions, and post-harvest slash treatments using fire are not expected to impact
boreal toads or their most important habitats considerably regardless of alternative, because of
riparian breeding habitat protections designed for fish species.
While aquatic environments are key to toad reproduction, boreal toads may travel through and
occupy upland habitats during warmer portions of the year. Research and other information is
very limited about the kinds of upland habitats preferred by this toad or how it uses them.
Likewise, little is known allowing project design or mitigation to eliminate all potential risks to
these toads when using upland habitats. Harvest and ground-disturbing activities occurring
during spring or summer would likely expose them to marginal risks of direct harm, since they
retreat from activity, hibernating in soft mud or other protected sites during cold seasons. Due
to this information gap, the effects of management actions on boreal toad occupation of upland
habitats remains a matter of relative uncertainty. However, based on their probable absence
from the project area, these risks are considered negligible.
ALTERNATIVE A - NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
This alternative would have no measurable direct or indirect effects on boreal toads or their
aquatic breeding habitats. This alternative would have no immediate effects on boreal toads or
their habitat based on the limited knowledge we have about this species. Improvements in
overall water quality and riparian habitat would not be achieved since the watershed
improvement projects associated with the action alternatives would not be implemented. Fuel
loads along streams and RHCAs would continue to increase and may expose these
environments to intense fires. Large-scale fire events in RHCAs and elsewhere in the project
area could increase seasonal run-off and sediment delivery to streams, and reduce large woody
debris recruitment and stream shading. This in turn could have negative effects on boreal toads
and toad habitat. Individual toads or tadpoles can be killed by wildland fire.
ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, AND E
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
Action alternatives would not modify any riparian habitat conservation areas directly, thus no
direct impacts to toads or their breeding sites are predicted. However, action alternatives do
treat the upland areas to varying degrees, which may place toads at some indirect risk for harm
to individuals that may be present, including minor potential indirect impacts on riparian habitat
conditions from changes due to off-site generated silt and water quality impacts.
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Implementing the watershed improvement projects associated with the action alternatives would
cause a temporary increase in sediment short-term, but there would also be a long-term
reduction in sediment. It is not known if sediment levels affect boreal toads, but it is reasonable
to think that improvements to overall watershed quality would be beneficial to this water-
dependent species.
Salvaging dead and dying trees and merchantable green lodgepole pine would help reduce the
risk of high-intensity, large-scale fires in the project area. Fuel loading within RHCAs would
continue under all action alternatives and could expose toads and toad habitat to intense fires'
however, by reducing fuel loads outside of RHCAs, fires might not be as destructive to moist
environments as under the 'no action' alternative.
Proposed harvest and underburning activities are likely to alter existing non-breeding habitat for
boreal toads for the short-term. Regeneration harvest with underburning removes overstory
trees and ground cover, resulting in warmer and drier exposed soils. Intermediate harvest and
burning would retain most of the larger overstory trees, leaving ground-level habitat more
protected, with better daytime refugia sites for toads. Based on this species' ability to occupy a
wide variety of habitats, boreal toad use could still occur, although at lower population levels
As vegetation recovered within a few years, habitat would become increasingly suitable and use
would be expected to increase. If adult boreal toads were present, individual mortality could
occur during harvest or underburning from heat or consumed woody material, or by vehicles or
machinery used for logging or roadwork.
Design features that include riparian buffers on all streams, ponds, springs or seeps in
treatment units will protect these suitable breeding sites. However, roadside ditches that hold
water long enough into the summer to provide breeding sites would not be protected by RHCAs
unless they were associated with streams or other protected sites. Individual toads or local
populations occupying these ditches could be affected by seasonal dry-up or site-specific road
reconstruction if they occurred while tadpoles were still dependent on water availability.
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS (INCLUDES FORESEEABLE FUTURE ACTIONS)
The 'no action' alternative would have no cumulative effects on the toad or its habitat cumulative
to past harvest, reading, human disturbance, recreation, minerals or other activities. The
sensitive species determination for boreal toads would be "no impact".
Action alternatives would have limited, indirect cumulative effects on riparian breeding habitats
in addition to those produced from past harvest, reading, mining, public access, fire exclusion
and other habitat impacts.
Timber harvest and salvage, grazing, insect epidemics, fires, fire suppression, mining, and road
construction and maintenance can cumulatively affect boreal toads through soil compaction,
changes in vegetative cover, altering stream channels, or by changing the quantity and quality
of water flowing into wet meadows. Past harvest practices that involved removing forest
vegetation along streams and wetlands left these sites vulnerable to hydrologic and vegetative
changes. Although fires probably rarely burn in this species' habitats, water quality and quantity
varies after large fires upstream and could affect local toad populations. Fire suppression has
created denser forests, which tend to burn hotter, and hotter fires tend to be more destructive
Livestock grazing is likely to continue on USDA FS allotments and on private lands, and may
have had past effects. Beaver dams also provide a flux of habitat availability; past beaver
trapping may have affected habitat availability where beavers may not have recolonized.
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For boreal toads, regeneration harvest with underburning removes overstory trees and ground
cover, resulting in warmer and drier exposed soils. Regeneration harvests have been proposed
for this project and various other projects in the American and Crooked River drainages.
Cumulatively, several acres of potential upland toad habitat could be impacted. Individual toads
could be killed from the vegetative changes, prescribed fires, motor vehicles, and heavy
machinery associated with these proposed actions.
Past, present, and future actions can affect boreal toad habitat in the project area as well as
across the Nez Perce National Forest. Although individuals or localized populations can be
affected, none of the proposed alternatives should affect populations of boreal toads at the
project- or Forest-level.
The sensitive species determination for boreal toads would be "may impact individuals or
habitat, but will not likely result in a trend toward federal listing or reduced viability for the
population or species" for alternatives B, C, D, and E.
NORTHERN LEOPARD FROG
EXISTING CONDITION
The northern leopard frog has not been reported on the Nez Perce National Forest in recent
times and, based on Idaho Dept. of Fish and Game records, does not occur within the north
central portion of the state (Idaho Dept. of Fish and Game Nongame Program, Idaho's
Amphibians and Reptiles, Nongame Wildlife Leaflet #7, Boise, Idaho). A 1997 amphibian
survey along American River (above and below Mane's Place) found only spotted frogs. In
addition, no amphibian surveys conducted anywhere-on the Nez Perce Forest have ever yielded
evidence of occupation by Northern leopard frogs. Global amphibian declines and region-wide
declines in this species have occurred in recent years but causes are not completely certain.
Substantial evidence from Montana suggests that the Chytrid fungus (Batrachochytrium
dendrobatidis), acting alone or synergistically with other stressors, is a potential cause and
should be regarded as a threat (Maxell, B.A., et. al., tech. paper 2003).
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
For reasons and rationale stated above, the project activities are expected to produce.no direct,
indirect, or cumulative impacts on the Northern leopard frog or any occupied habitats in the
analysis area, thus the northern leopard frog will not be analyzed or discussed further in this
document.
NORTHERN GOSHAWK
EXISTING CONDITION
On October 28, 2004, the northern goshawk was dropped from the Regional Forester's
sensitive species in the Northern Region. However, the effects analysis for the goshawk was
maintained because it remains a locally important species for the Nez Perce National Forest, as
it is considered a management indicator species for old forests. Impacts to this species are
discussed below, but as a result of the new status with regard to the Northern Region Sensitive
Species list an effects determination is not necessary.
In Idaho, goshawks are typically found in montane coniferous forest, where they occupy
relatively large home ranges of 1,988 to 9,638 acres in size (Patla et al., 1995). Mature to old
growth timber stands are their favored nesting habitat. In northern Idaho and western Montana,
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goshawks nest in stands or groups of trees in the mature to over-mature age classes principally
on the mid to lower third of slopes. Douglas fir and Western larch are preferred nest tree
species (Hayward and Escano, 1989). Goshawks prey on a variety of medium-sized forest
birds and small mammals. Pole stage or larger stands open enough to permit unimpeded flight
are suitable for feeding (Hayward et a/., 1990). However, foraging habitat may be as closely
tied to prey availability as to particular habitat composition or structure (Patla et a/., 1995).
Data from the SFLA is referenced to gain broader scale perspective on habitat availability within
and around the project analysis area. Within the larger landscape of the South Fork Clearwater
River subbasin, closed canopy old growth comprises some 24 percent of the subbasin
coniferous forests, but historically this habitat would likely have accounted for only about 15
percent of the same area (USDA FS 1998a, p 104) . Within the American and Crooked River
ERUs, age class distributions are currently more favorable to goshawk habitats than historically
The current (1997) amount of goshawk habitat is more prevalent than it was historically In
American River ERU, there is currently 205 percent as much suitable habitat as historically In
the Crooked River ERU, there is currently 179 percent of historic amounts (USDA FS, 1998b)
This can be attributable to increases in more shade tolerant tree species, like grand fir due to
fire suppression and forest succession (USDA FS 1998a, p 83).
Current conditions of stands in the analysis area reflect more than 80 years of fire suppression
In the absence of fire, conifer densities have increased substantially over pre-settlement times!
As a result, goshawk habitat is more prevalent in the analysis area now than historically A
more complete discussion of goshawks and their preferred habitats is hereby referenced in the
South Fork Clearwater River Landscape Assessment - Wildlife Technical Report - Northern
Goshawk, (USDA FS, 1998b). While overall, habitat important to goshawk nesting is more
prevalent now in the American and Crooked river drainages, the distribution and connectivity of
late serai and old growth stands is somewhat less effective due principally to past harvest and
fire disturbance. Habitat in the American River drainage is somewhat less impacted and
fragmented by past timber harvest than the Crooked river drainage.
Goshawks are relatively common and widely distributed across the Nez Perce National Forest.
Based on populations monitoring information, there are currently at least a dozen known
goshawk nest territories (fourteen known nests) widely distributed throughout the Nez Perce
National Forest (see Forestwide Sightings and Next Locations for Goshawk in the project file).
Based on formal population monitoring results, widely scattered incidental sightings, and
inventoried habitat information, local goshawk population trends remain relatively stable on the
Forest (USDA FS 2004, NPNF 15th Annual Monitoring and Evaluation Report Draft for 2002"
Northern goshawk monitoring data - Item 10 Population Trends of Indicator Species).
To avoid attracting nest predators, goshawks tend to remain relatively inconspicuous prior to
and during early phases of nesting. As a result, active nest sites are difficult and very costly in
time and resources to locate. Locating all alternate nests within a given pair's nesting territory
may take five or more years of intensive, focused surveys, because each pair of goshawks
typically alternate nest use from year to year to avoid chick predation by fishers, great-horned
owls, and other predators. From two to as many as nine alternate nests may be used in each
nesting territory by a given goshawk pair (Woodbridge, B. and Detrich, P.J. 1994). Pre-project
field surveys of timber stands, watershed conditions, and other resources by several crews of
resource specialists during the goshawk nesting and survey season of 2003 have provided
goshawk presence information from the American and Crooked Project area (see
American/Crooked Project Wildlife Observations Table in the project file). Based on the pattern
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observed from similar, nearby habitat areas on the Forest (i.e., Cove-Mallard Timber Sales),
reports of goshawk sightings and discovery of their nest locations characteristically become
more common as more intensive field work is done in an area.
No goshawk nests are known to occur within the analysis area currently, however four goshawk
sightings (one in American drainage; three in Crooked River drainage), were recorded during
pre-project field surveys by the Forest Wildlife Biologist and others (see American/Crooked
Project Wildlife Observations Table in the project file). Prior to these, one sighting in the Red
River drainage (east of Crooked River drainage) was reported by Jim White (Idaho Dept. of Fish
and Game Biologist). Several planned harvest units (#39, 47, and 75 in Alternatives B, C, D,
and E; and 49 and 141 in Alternatives C and D), occur within one mile of at least one of these
sightings. Goshawk sightings during June, July or August may indicate possibility of nest
presence in the local vicinity. In the event active nests are discovered during project
implementation within or immediately adjacent to planned harvest units, project nest site
mitigation will protect nest trees and surrounding areas of 10-15 acres in size from harvest.
The Habitat Conservation Assessment (HCA) and Strategy (CS) for the Northern goshawk
(Accipiter gentilis) in Idaho (Patla et a/., 1995 p 3) cites that goshawks tend to use stand clusters
greater than 61 ha (150 acres), dramatically higher than clusters less than 20 ha (50 acres) in
size. Given goshawk's preference for largest patch and stand clusters as nest habitat, all
existing old growth stands as well as replacement old growth stands in most immediate
adjacency to, or those forming connections with, existing old growth were selected for
designated protection from harvest in the project area.
Regional differences exist over best management measures for goshawk habitats in various
Forest Service regions, and are driven by responsible opposing viewpoints. Habitat
management direction for the goshawk as such, has become region-specific in the western U.S.
The USDA FS Southwest Region (R3) adopted goshawk nest site guidelines, which manage
2,428 ha (6,000-acre) areas around each nest site. These guidelines are designed to maintain
goshawk populations in warmer, dryer, less dense forests of the southwestern U.S., where
subtle changes in forest structure can dramatically influence prey densities and hunting
capability. In southwestern forests, dominant portions of the entire landscapes (including
goshawk foraging habitats), have sometimes been blanketed with partial harvesting, impacting
habitat quality by leaving proportionately low amounts of residual basal area of living trees
(Crocker-Bedford, 1990). In dryer, less productive habitats, limited residual canopy cover over
the majority of habitat area can quickly become limiting for goshawks for multiple reasons.
Subsequent young tree and understory shrub regrowth in such circumstances can impact prey
productivity and impede goshawk hunting effectiveness. Open canopies also encourage
competing hawks and other predators. Highly productive riparian areas are considerably less
common in the southwest than in the Northern Rockies, thus are proportionately more valued
for goshawks in southwestern forest landscapes of the Southwestern Region (Forest Service
Region 3). West-side forests of the Northern Region (Forest Service Region 1) have
proportionately more moist, productive riparian zones.
Some of the most intensively researched goshawk habitat work has been done in the dryer
southwestern U.S. Much of the data suggests that extensive harvesting and canopy density
reduction in the home range beyond the nest stand can negatively change nesting and hunting
habitat structure resulting in reduced hunting effectiveness of goshawks, altered prey
availability, and increased competition or predation by other raptors which result in nest losses
and local declines in goshawk populations. Currently, no guidelines for goshawk nest and
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habitat protection similar to those for the Forest Service Southwestern Region have been
adopted within the Forest Service's Northern Region, or the American-Crooked project
Management recommendations proposed by Reynolds et a/., 1992, were developed specifically
for the southwestern United States. Thus, it would be inappropriate to apply these guidelines to
the moister, mtermountain west. Given that this project will not harvest old growth stands and
that active or newly discovered goshawk nests will be protected, goshawks nests should be
adequately protected.
The Nez Perce Forest is highly dissected, being considerably more abundant in rich, prey-
productive riparian zones, and likewise has inherent canopy densities considerably higher than
the dryer forests of the southwest. In addition, ESA protections of all fish-bearing riparian zones
(i.e., PACFISH) further provide numerous indirect acres of goshawk foraging habitat protection
in the American and Crooked River project area.
Major differences exist in forest types, habitat productivities, availability of productive riparian
zones, goshawk prey sizes, and prey species abundance between the contrasting precipitation
and climate of the two regions. These differences suggest that cross-region application of the
"Management Recommendations for the Northern Goshawk in the Southwestern United States"
(MRNG) guidelines cannot be justified for use in the American and Crooked River Project This
becomes particularly important given the extent of the current mountain pine beetle infestation
and quickly diminishing live canopy cover in the American-Crooked analysis area. Most
lodgepole pine in the area over six inches in diameter is now dead or predicted to be dead/near
death within a. very few years. Most of the existing canopy will thus disappear across thousands
of acres in the analysis area. Harvesting some lodgepole pine stands will likely cause little
measurable harm to goshawk foraging habitats around any nests. Harvest activities may help
reduce fuel levels in local areas, which in turn may help reduce eventual fire intensities that can
threaten important old growth stands.
A scientific committee review of key literature related to goshawk habitat management in the
southwest (Reynolds et a/., 2001) also concluded that goshawk home ranges should contain a
balance of forest age classes or vegetation structural stages so that goshawk and prey habitats
were always available within a home range. Forest Plan standards for retention and protection
of existing and replacement old growth will be met under all alternatives, thus the most critical
goshawk habitats will be maintained to help ensure long term viability of local populations.
Recent studies suggest that goshawks may not be as tied to old growth forests as previously
understood. McGrath, et a/., (2003) indicate that old growth forest structures are not useful in
predicting goshawk nesting habitat. In the northern Rockies, goshawks are often associated
with mature forests, not necessarily old growth forests (Squires and Ruggerio 1996, Clough
2000:67-68).
The habitat information gathered and reviewed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service indicates
that changes have occurred in the distribution, amount, and structural characteristics of mature
forests throughout much of the western United States. The primary change has been the
reduction of mature forest cover by logging, although other factors such as fire suppression and
catastrophic fire have also been implicated. While timber management has been demonstrated
to affect goshawks at least at local levels (Crocker-Bedford 1990), forest management
practices, such as the use of controlled fire selective thinning, also may make habitats more
suitable to goshawks by opening up dense understory vegetation, creating snags, down logs,
and woody debris, and creating other conditions conducive to goshawks and their prey
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(Reynolds et a/., 1992). The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service found "no evidence that goshawk
habitat is limiting the population, or that a significant curtailment of the species habitat or range
is occurring. Goshawks remain widely distributed throughout their historic range in the western
United States" (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1998).
For this analysis, goshawk nesting habitat was defined as mesic vegetation with large trees
(greater than 10 inches in diameter at breast height or dbh) with closed canopies (greater than
60 percent). Foraging habitat consists of pole-sized trees (greater than 5 inches dbh) or larger
with moderate and high closed canopies (greater than or equal to 25 percent). The following
table shows the acres of each habitat for the two watersheds (and percent of habitat within the
two watersheds).
TABLE 3.147 - HABITAT ACRES WITHIN AMERICAN AND CROOKED RIVER WATERSHEDS
Watershed
American River
Crooked River
Nesting Habitat Acres
(% wtrsd)
17,107(29%)
12,212 (27%)
Foraging habitat acres
{% wtrsd)
44,270 (76%)
30,912(68%)
By assuming an average home range size of 5,000 acres per bird (Hayward et a/., 1990), an
analytical index was developed to compare the effects of each alternative. Under the existing
condition, 44,200 acres in American River could support about 9 goshawks. In Crooked River,
30,912 acres can support approximately 6 goshawks. [Note: Because goshawks can forage in
the same stands as where they nest, acres of nesting habitat are included in the foraging
figures.] It is important to realize that this number is simply an analytical index and in no way
attempts to measure actual densities or numbers of goshawks on the landscape. Goshawk
home ranges can vary in size, and it is not known how much home range overlap might exist
within or between goshawks of goshawk pairs.
The results of the Forest-wide Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) indicate that, overall,
goshawk habitat is widely distributed across the Forest (this includes nesting and foraging
habitat). The total potential goshawk habitat represents approximately 38 percent of the
forested lands forest-wide with a 90 percent confidence interval of 34 to 42 percent. Within the
American River watershed, total goshawk habitat (represented by foraging habitat as nesting
habitat is included in the calculations) amounts to 69 percent of the forested lands and 43
percent in the Crooked River watershed. The following table (Table 3-148) displays the FIA
data at three scales: 1) Forest, 2) Subbasin (4th HUC), and watershed (5th HUC). The amount
and distribution of habitat is both a reflection of the capability and current condition of the
landscape, as well as the number of plots across the landscape.
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TABLE 3-148 - INVENTORY/ANALYSIS DATA FOR GOSHAWK FORAGING AND NESTING HABITATI
Species
Goshawk
Nesting
Habitat
Goshawk
Foraging
Habitat
Nez Perce Forest
Ci
Low
••^•^••M
16
34
Mean
•••••^^••••B
I^^^^^HM
19
38
Ci
High
H^^^^BNI
.22
42
South Fork
Clearwater River
CI
Low
•MBBMMMi
•^^^^^H
22
45
Mean
28
52
CI
High
35
60
American River
Watershed
CI
Low
M^^^HM
18
50
Mean
^•^•^^^^•n
38
69
Ci
High
•N^HMI
58
88
Crooked River
Watershed
CI
Low
MH^^^HHB
MM^^^^^H
0
13
Mean
•••••MMMHM
^••^^••^^H
4
43
Ci
High
^^^^^^•MI
13
75
Estimates of goshawk habitat based on R1VMP and the FIA data differ primarily due to the
divisions for size class and canopy cover categories being slightly different between the two
datasets. R1VMP also provides a spatial context not represented by the FIA data.
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
Timber harvesting at or very near goshawk nest sites can directly disturb or displace birds,
potentially impacting nest success and future nesting. All existing old growth and numerous
acres of strategically selected replacement stands have been protected in the American and
Crooked River Project to ensure that Forest Plan standards are met or exceeded. Most trees
harvested would be lodgepole pine in intermediate size classes. Some larger trees (various
species), in mixed conifer stands outside of designated old growth are planned for harvest in all
action alternatives, but these would leave and perpetuate key fire-related, goshawk-preferred
nest species (larch, Douglas fir), which would remain intact and may contribute as potential
future nest trees. However, large diameter trees (greater than 21 inches dbh) are not targeted
for harvest.
All action alternatives of the American-Crooked River project implement general conservation
strategies from the Goshawk Habitat Conservation Assessment and Conservation Strategy for
Idaho (citation?). Protection of nest sites and surrounding forest vegetative conditions is done
principally through nest site mitigation. All action alternatives will provide protection for a 10-15
acre, no-harvest buffer around each active nest discovered (see Table 2.3, Project Design and
Mitigations Measures). No additional mitigations are deemed necessary to maintain goshawk
population viability in the project area, because suitable habitat is 205 percent and 179 percent
of historical amounts in American and Crooked drainages respectively (USDA FS, 1998b).
Harvest sites have been designed to avoid the broader, old-growth rich areas best suited for
goshawk nesting within the analysis area in all action alternatives. If an active nest is
encountered unexpectedly during harvest, a 10-15 acre no-harvest buffer will be placed around
it to protect the active nest and surrounding habitat. Noxious weeds, road decommissioning,
watershed restoration actions, and post-harvest slash treatments using fire are not expected to
impact goshawks or their habitats considerably regardless of alternative. An estimated 30-40
percent of total harvest acres is expected to be in mixed conifer stands in all alternatives.
Alternatives with highest harvest acreages would yield the highest relative impacts.
Forest inventory and analysis data at three scales for percent goshawk foraging and nesting habitat, including 90
percent confidence intervals (CI low and CI high).
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ALTERNATIVE A - NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
No direct effects to old growth stands, replacement old growth stands, or any mixed conifer
stands will occur, thus existing old growth habitat patch sizes and connectivity will be
maintained. Existing goshawk habitat would not be harvested under this alternative. In general,
nesting habitat would increase and foraging habitat would decrease as forest succession
continues to fill in understories and increase stand canopy closure. In predominantly lodgepole
pine stands, additional trees would die as a result of the mountain pine beetle epidemic, and
dead trees would eventually fall to the ground. This process would create openings and gaps
that could be utilized as foraging habitat by goshawks. High densities of downed logs, shading
from snags, and lack of seed sources may delay the regeneration of new trees relative to
harvested areas.
Under the 'no action' alternative, the stands with very frequent and frequent fire return intervals
would continue to miss disturbances. This would allow for continued buildup of fuels and
changing of fuel conditions, such as stand density and vertical arrangement. Such conditions
could cause a wildland fire occurring in these stands to burn with increased intensity and
severity, and increase chances for detrimental fire effects from a stand-replacing event.
Areas with infrequent and very infrequent fire return intervals would proceed as they do
naturally. This includes fuel buildup as stands mature and decline from age and outside agents
such as beetles. As a result of this buildup, lethal, stand-replacing fires could become more
prevalent (refer to fire effects analysis for additional details).
Fuel build-up resulting from fire suppression activities would continue, thereby increasing the
likelihood of a stand-replacing fire. Stand-replacing fires could potentially reduce nesting habitat
across the project area. However, the size and severity of the disturbance could eliminate or
create the various elements of goshawk habitat, depending on the size and severity of the
disturbance.
ALTERNATIVE B, C, D, AND E
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
Action alternatives could directly impact patches of mature mixed conifer habitats, but would
produce no direct effects to existing old growth stands, patch sizes. Old growth habitat
connectivity would remain consistent within historical patterns by retention of riparian corridors
and replacement old growth. Important replacement old growth stands would also be protected
from harvest. Relatively moderate levels of harvest of mixed conifers will be harvested.
Regeneration harvest and thinning can impact goshawks by removing suitable nesting habitat,
although it can also create forest edges and in some cases smaller openings that goshawks
could use for foraging. The proposed project design spreads potentially affected acres across
the entire analysis area. As a result, most resident goshawks are likely to experience some
habitat loss at a small or site-specific scale. Project activities near an active nest site could
cause temporary avoidance or abandonment, depending on the length and intensity of activity.
Proposed treatments would break up the fuel patterns, which in turn could reduce the likelihood
of severe fire effects within the project area and effects to goshawk habitat.
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The following tables show the changes in goshawk habitat by alternative. Effects of the action
alternatives would vary, with Alternative D modifying the greatest amount of nesting and
foraging habitat, and Alternative E modifying the least.
TABLE 3.149- ESTIMATED ACRES OF NORTHERN GOSHAWK HABITAT MODIFIED BY EACH ACTION
ALTERNATIVE (AMERICAN RIVER)
American River
Acres (%) Nesting Habitat treated
Acres (%) Foraging habitat treated
Alt. A
0
0
Alt. B
149(<1%)
507(1%)
Alt. C
198(1%)
643(1%)
Alt. D
384 (2%)
995 (2%)
Alt.E
92(<1%)
276 (<1%)
TABLE 3.150 - ESTIMATED ACRES OF NORTHERN GOSHAWK HABITAT MODIFIED BY EACH ACTION
ALTERNATIVE (CROOKED RIVER)
Crooked River
Acres (%) Nesting Habitat treated
Acres (%) Foraging habitat treated
Alt. A
0
0
Ait. B
457 (4%)
1,136(4%)
Alt, C
51 1 (4%)
1,216(4%)
Ait D
611 (5%)
1,477(5%)
Alt.E
403 (3%)
996 (3%)
Nesting Habitat: Changes in potential nesting habitat acres are outlined by alternative in
Tables 3-149 and 3-150 above. Silvicultural treatments that encourage the development of
large trees (greater than 21 inches dbh) over the planning area would benefit goshawk nesting
habitat. However, any harvest activity that would reduce canopy closure below 60 percent
would reduce the potential for those stands to be used as nesting habitat.
None of the alternatives would harvest much that qualifies as nesting habitat. Alternative E
would modify the fewest acres of goshawk nesting habitat (less than 1 percent in American
River and 3 percent in Crooked River of the existing habitat), and Alternative D would modify the
greatest acreage (about 2 percent and 5 percent of existing habitat in American and Crooked
Rivers, respectively). No harvest activities would take place in allocated old growth areas or
RHCAs, so these stands would remain relatively intact and available for potential goshawk nest
sites. Temporary roads would also reduce the amount of goshawk habitat.
Foraging Habitat: Changes in potential foraging habitat acres are outlined by alternative in
Tables 3-149 and 3-150. Alternative E would modify the fewest acres of goshawk foraging
habitat (about 3 percent of the existing habitat), and Alternative D would modify the greatest
acreage (about 9 percent of existing habitat). Using our analytical index, under Alternatives B,
C, D, and E, enough goshawk habitat would remain in the project area to support about 9
goshawks in American River and about 5-6 goshawks in Crooked River.
Harvesting dead, dying and merchantable green lodgepole pine would create openings across
the project area. Goshawks could potentially use these newly created edges and openings as
hunting areas. However, should the proposed harvest activities create large openings,
particularly if the new units are adjacent to other past harvest units, the amount of foraging area
for goshawks could decrease. Timber removal may affect the distribution of some goshawk
prey species.
In mixed conifer stands, thinning understory trees such as dead, dying, and merchantable green
lodgepole pine and other conifer species, would open up the lower layer of vegetation and
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create flyways through which goshawks could maneuver. Thinned stands could maintain or
create more favorable conditions over time for goshawks as these stands develop structural
diversity. Thinned, mixed conifer stands would be particularly useable if stands are managed
for canopy closure values above 40 percent. Silvicultural prescriptions that retain many or all of
the larger, wind-firm trees in ponderosa pine, Douglas-fir, and mixed xeric conifer stands, would
maintain and improve these stands as potential goshawk foraging habitat.
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS (INCLUDES FORESEEABLE FUTURE ACTIONS)
The 'no action' alternative would not further contribute to harvest-related fragmentation and/or
losses of existing or replacement old-growth habitat stands. As a result of widespread,
cumulative fuels buildup, lethal, stand-replacing fires will become more prevalent with attendant
risks to old growth habitats (refer to fire effects analysis for additional details). Due to a
measure of uncertainty in estimating intensity future fire risks to limited habitat conditions
considered important for goshawk nesting, there could be impacts to goshawk habitat with this
alternative.
Action alternatives would result in habitat losses that add to cumulative losses of existing and
potential future goshawk habitat related to previous harvests, reading, and post-disturbance
harvest projects as well as reasonably foreseeable harvests on private and nearby BLM lands in
the analysis area.
Alternative E would have the least cumulative effect (followed by B, C, and D) and would
contribute modestly to harvest-related fragmentation, adding to cumulative landscape
fragmentation, increased openings, and human disturbance risks from previous harvests,
reading, fire exclusion and other human activities. In untreated areas, the results would be the
same as Alternative A.
Timber harvest and road construction have reduced the amount and continuity of mature and
old growth habitat across the project area. In addition, past actions frequently targeted medium
and large trees and valuable ponderosa pine and western larch snags. These actions have left
fewer appropriate stands and trees within stands that could be used by goshawks. At the same
time, active fire suppression since the early 1900s has allowed succession to continue in those
stands that have not been harvested. Relatively simple one- and two-story stands have
transitioned to more complex multi-story stands with increased canopy closure and individual
trees have grown larger. Some of these stands may now qualify as suitable goshawk nesting
habitat. Increased fuel loads from fire suppression and the current mountain pine beetle
epidemic increase the chance of stand-replacing fires, which could remove several acres of
older forest habitats from the landscape. Other projects in or near the project area may also
alter the amount, distribution, and connectivity of older, dense-canopied stands.
Project activities would likely improve growing conditions for grasses, forbs, and shrubs, and
seedling trees in harvest units, which may in turn improve habitat conditions for some goshawk
prey. Similarly, other projects that open or remove canopy may create edges and clearings that
provide foraging habitat for goshawks. New harvest units or silvicultural treatments that abut old
units or treatment areas could create openings too large to be used by goshawks, thus
decreasing the acres of suitable habitat. The mountain pine beetle epidemic is creating many,
large openings across the landscape. Projects must consider the distribution of the mountain
pine beetle-caused openings relative to project activities in order to prevent greatly reduced
goshawk habitat across the landscape.
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Although individual birds or pairs could be disturbed by project activities, none of the proposed
alternatives should affect populations at the local or watershed level. Management practices
proposed in the American and Crooked River Project are considered to be consistent with
strategies identified as part of the South Fork Clearwater River Landscape Assessment (USDA
FS, 1998a) in terms of maintaining high canopy closure, old growth forest for nesting and
maintaining diverse foraging habitat. At the Forest level and across the range of the species
the effects of past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future actions appear small to
negligible.
WOLVERINE
EXISTING CONDITION
The wolverine is an uncommon, wide-ranging carnivore that typically occurs at low densities
across, its range. Home ranges average approximately 100,000 acres. Within the western U.S.,
they occur principally in remote, high-elevation mountain basins and cirques, particularly during
the breeding season (Rowland et a/., 2003). The Conservation Strategy for Wolverine (Gulo
gulo) in Idaho (Copeland and Hudak 1995), defined wolverine habitat as areas associated with
a component of seclusion or separation from human influence. Wolverines are relatively
intolerant of human disturbance requiring large tracts of remote mountainous habitat (Hornocker
and Hash 1981). Habitat of this nature is most easily defined by existing tracts of set-aside or
defined refugia such as RARE II land or designated wilderness.
Wolverine have been observed on the Forest. Most observations have been within or adjacent
to designated wilderness areas in relatively remote, isolated landscapes. The edge of the
Gospel-Hump Wilderness is only a few miles southwest of the project area. Central-Idaho
wolverines are known to commonly cross distances of 20 km, negotiating road systems and
active timber sales, to reach insular subalpine habitats (Copeland and Hudak, 1995).
In Idaho, female wolverines use high-elevation cirque basins for natal sites, while making daily
forays into lower montane habitats to forage (Copeland and Hudak 1995). The high elevation
Gospel-Hump Wilderness is less than five miles southwest of the edge of the Crooked River
drainage. Absence of high elevation cirque basins and boulder talus within the project area, as
well as extensive previous development, reading, harvest, and other human activities conducted
in the project area make it unsuitable as breeding or denning habitat, however woh/erine may
occasionally traverse through the analysis area in search of food. Wolverines are opportunistic
scavengers and ungulate carrion is considered an important food source. Activities that
decrease ungulate populations may negatively affect wolverines (Copeland and Hudak 1995).
Incidental trapping mortality is a potentially important factor in managing wolverine populations.
Wolverine trapping is not allowed in Idaho, but animals are occasionally caught by accident by
coyote and bobcat trappers. Within the analysis area, trapping pressure and risks to wolverine
are relatively low due to low trapper interest (USDA FS, 1998b).
The analysis area within the Crooked and American River drainages is well developed,
substantially roaded and contains large amounts of ongoing vehicular and human disturbances.'
Neither American River nor Crooked River ERUs hold areas of low human disturbance and
neither are considered quality habitat, however each may contribute foraging areas and overall
habitat potentially capable of supporting wolverines (USDA FS, 1998b).
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ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
The analysis area lacks seclusion from human influence, and the character of extensive
roadless habitat security preferred for natal denning. No high elevation cirque basins occur in
the analysis area either. Noxious weed effects can indirectly impact overall elk habitat quality,
which may indirectly affect long-term availability of carrion for wolverines where weeds may
dominate native vegetation, but these are not considered major impacts. Watershed restoration
actions, and post-harvest slash treatments using fire are not expected to impact wolverine or
their habitat considerably regardless of alternative. Road decommissioning will help reduce
human-wolverine conflict potentials.
Sites planned for harvests are well outside wilderness or RARE II areas considered suitable as
wolverine habitats. While wolverines may occasionally traverse through or across the
American/Crooked River analysis area, which is between three major, high elevation wilderness
areas (Gospel-Hump, Selway-Bitterroot, Frank Church River of No Return), it is unlikely that
wolverines would find the analysis area habitats attractive except perhaps as a travel corridor.
Harvest, reading, watershed restoration actions and other similar project activities in all action
alternatives would hold the potential to disturb or displace wolverine that may be traveling
through the project area, but given the wide-ranging nature of the animal and lack of seclusion
from human intrusion in the project area, this is unlikely.
Productivity of habitats and related ungulate carrion availability are important aspects of
wolverine habitat management. For these reasons, the analysis criteria for wolverine will be
impacts related to ungulate (elk) summer habitat effectiveness
ALTERNATIVE A - NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
No road decommissioning would occur under this alternative, and the current amount of
wolverine habitat would be maintained. However, any stand replacing fires that occur in the
project area might reduce the amount of subalpine fir and spruce forests available to wolverines.
Subalpine cirque habitats would not be affected by this alternative, as they do not exist in the
analysis area. Summer elk habitat is declining due to succession and the mountain pine beetle
epidemic, and moose winter range may be increasing because of succession (see "Elk" and
"Moose" discussions later in this section). Any effects these habitat changes have on ungulate
populations could affect wolverines, as big game carrion is an important wolverine food
resource during winter.
The 'no action' alternative would have no meaningful direct effects on current elk habitat
effectiveness. Although the longer term indirect effects of allowing unabated fuel buildups in the
analysis area could eventually result in a more extensive imbalance of cover and forage for elk
due to eventual large-scale wildfires, the net impacts to wolverine, given their extremely large
home ranges, would likely be relatively immeasurable or nil.
ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, AND E
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
Action alternatives would provide improved wolverine habitat, due to slightly improved habitat
effectiveness for elk over Alternative A. Big game security would be improved/as well, through
road decommissioning. Refer to the discussion on elk.
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None of the action alternatives would harvest trees in RHCAs except for individual trees that
would be removed during temporary road construction, road reconstruction, or while creating
cable corridors. Connectivity along forested drainage bottoms would remain intact for all action
alternatives, as would potential wolverine habitat inside RHCAs. However, fuel loads along
streams and RHCAs would continue to increase and may expose these environments to intense
fires.
Proposed harvest activities would affect summer elk habitat in the project area. Alternative E
would result in improved or stable elk habitat effectiveness for most, but not all, of the project
area. For details on how this analysis was conducted and the conclusions that were drawn, see
the "Elk" section later in this section. Project activities would also affect moose habitat. Moose
winter range is the most limiting aspect of moose ecology in the project area, and 32 acres of
the available moose winter range in the project area is proposed for treatment (for more
information, see the "Moose" section later in this section). If elk or moose populations decline
as a result of proposed activities, wolverines may also be affected because of their reliance on
ungulate carrion in the winter.
Alternatives B and C would modestly improve habitat security compared to Alternative A by
reducing motorized access particularly in the American River portion of the analysis area, but
the Crooked River portion would remain the same as Alternative A. Alternatives D and E would
improve habitat security to the highest level and positive effects would accrue to both the
American and Crooked River portions of the analysis area compared to Alternatives A, B, and
C.
The temporary increase of human activity in the planning area associated with harvest and
vegetative treatments could increase the possibility of human-wolverine interactions short-term
and/or cause wolverines to avoid regions within the project area. As mitigation, all current
access closures would be maintained as part of the proposed project. Road decommissioning
would help reduce human intrusion long-term.
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS (INCLUDES FORESEEABLE FUTURE ACTIONS)
Given all past development actions that have previously impacted overall wolverine foraging
habitats including reading, logging, recreation activities, fire exclusion and others, and
considering the very large size of wolverine home ranges, Alternative A would have no
measurable cumulative effects. The sensitive species determination for wolverine would be "no
impact".
Action alternatives would add additional impacts to the developed nature of the area, but overall
effects relative to elk habitats would be improved.
Past timber harvest, fire, fire suppression, and mining activity altered habitat characteristics in
the project area by reducing the amount and distribution of large and medium trees, snags, and
down wood, and by creating numerous, small patches across the landscape. These changes
have affected wolverine prey species such as small mammals and ungulates. Prior to fire
suppression and timber management, elk and deer populations were dependent upon natural
disturbances to create openings that provided the early successional growth they favor for
foraging. Larger, more connected tracts of mature and old growth forest provided suitable
winter range for moose. Elk habitat may improve under some alternatives, but moose winter
range would decrease. The network of edges that the project would create could be beneficial
to some small mammal prey species.
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Road construction associated with past management activities has provided people relatively
easy access into the area and has reduced the security and isolation the watershed once
provided for wolverines. Human developments; hiking trails; pack trails and outfitter activity;
and ATV and snowmobile use within the drainage have had far-reaching effects. These
activities have increased human access into once remote areas. Roads that access high-
elevation areas probably have reduced habitat quality the most. Snowmobile use may also
have had effects on winter prey species by providing pathways for other predators to access a
limited winter wolverine prey base. New roads created under this project proposal would exist
only temporarily on the landscape, and additional roads would be decommissioned under each
alternative.
Other projects in or near the American and Crooked River watersheds may also modify
ungulate and small mammal habitat, as well as the large tree subalpine fir habitat used by
wolverines. The project proposal is consistent with the wolverine management strategies
identified in the South Fork Clearwater River Landscape Assessment (USDA FS, 1998a).
Activities will not occur around wolverine denning habitat, no new campsites or mine sites are
proposed through this project, and the project does not target coniferous riparian forests or
mature/old growth mixed conifer, subalpine fir, or grand fir forests. Although individual
wolverines could be impacted at the project and watershed level, populations are not likely to be
affected at the Forest level or across the range of the species.
The sensitive species determination for wolverine would be "may impact individuals or habitat,
but will not likely result in a trend toward federal listing or reduced viability for the population or
species" for Alternatives B, C, D, and E.
HARLEQUIN DUCK
EXISTING CONDITION
Harlequin ducks are sea ducks that migrate inland to reproduce. Breeding habitat includes low
gradient, second order or larger streams. They rely on river and stream habitats with relatively
high water quality, which sustains the aquatic invertebrates they feed upon. The South Fork of
the Clearwater River is considered the southwestern limit of harlequin duck distribution in Idaho
(Cassirer, 1989). No suitable nesting habitat was observed within the South Fork Clearwater
River drainage during focused surveys, which included both the American and Crooked River
drainages (Cassirer, 1989).
The main American River and Crooked River are the only potential sites that Harlequins might
use incidentally for resting or feeding habitats. Evidence for the use of the South Fork
Clearwater River drainage during spring migration is scant. A review of local sightings data
found only one known (May 1988) observation of a female on Crooked River (Cassirer, 1989, p
9). Sediment levels, past dredge mining, and moderate to high human and vehicular traffic
levels along roads immediately adjacent to these main streams have virtually eliminated local
nesting suitability. For these reasons, the habitat along these small rivers is no longer
considered suitable as nesting habitat for this duck, but may be used occasionally for resting or
feeding.
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
The analysis criteria for Harlequin duck is protection and maintenance of riparian zones and
downstream water quality. Noxious weeds, road decommissioning, watershed restoration
actions, and post-harvest slash treatments using fire are not expected to have serious impacts
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on Harlequin ducks or their habitats considerably or for extended periods regardless of
alternative.
ALTERNATIVE A - NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
The 'no action' alternative would have no direct or indirect effects on the Harlequin duck or its
habitat. No predicted direct or indirect impairments to downstream habitats or water quality
would result.
Improvements in overall water quality and riparian habitat would not be achieved, since the
watershed improvement projects associated with the action alternatives would not be
implemented. Fuel loads along streams and RHCAs would continue to increase and may
expose these environments to intense fires. Large-scale fire events in RHCAs and elsewhere in
the project area could increase seasonal run-off and sediment delivery to streams, and reduce
large woody debris recruitment and stream shading. This in turn could have negative effects on
harlequin ducks and duck habitat.
Trees killed by insects, but not cut for firewood, would fall to the ground and into streams over
the next few years. Downed logs, shading from snags, and lack of seed sources may delay the
regeneration of new trees relative to harvested areas, but the recruitment of large, woody debris
in stream areas would continue. Harlequin habitat benefits from the addition of large woody
debris by adding cover and resting sites. The lack of reclamation for aquatic habitat could mean
that water quality conditions for harlequin ducks and their potential prey species would not
improve.
ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, AND E
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
Action alternatives do not modify (harvest) any riparian habitat conservation areas directly, thus
no direct impacts to Harlequin ducks or their breeding sites are predicted. However, upland
areas will be treated, which may cause minor potential indirect impacts on downstream
resting/feeding riparian conditions from changes due to silt and water quality impacts.
The watershed improvement actions that are related to the project are expected to improve
habitat conditions for harlequins over time. These improvements are touched upon in the
discussion below, but for more detailed information on these improvements and effects
analyses, see the Water Quality and Fisheries Resources sections of this chapter.
Timber harvest can affect harlequins through destruction of nest structures and changes in
availability of large woody material. Harvest activities can also decrease aquatic food sources
through changes in water quality, quantity, and temperature. Conversely, deciduous vegetation
can be stimulated, which in turn provides cover, shading, and terrestrial insects. Road and skid
trail construction, tree removal, site preparation, and stand regeneration treatments may cause
non-point pollution. Sediment, fuel and fluids from logging equipment, nutrients from harvested
areas, and applied fertilizers and pesticides are all potential pollutants that may result from any
of the action alternatives. These pollution sources could detrimentally affect harlequins,
harlequin habitat, and/or prey.
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CUMULATIVE EFFECTS (INCLUDES FORESEEABLE FUTURE ACTIONS)
No cumulative effects would be generated from Alternative A. The sensitive species
determination for Alternative A for Harlequin duck would be "no impact".
Action alternatives would have limited, indirect cumulative effects on downstream riparian
resting/feeding habitats in addition to those produced from past harvest, reading, mining, public
access, fire exclusion and other habitat impacts. Impacts would be in addition to those
produced from past harvest, reading, mining, public access, fire exclusion and other habitat
impacts.
Aquatic resources in the American and Crooked River watersheds and the South Fork
Clearwater River have undergone substantial physical changes from human disturbances such
as dredge mining, timber harvest, road construction, domestic livestock grazing, home
construction and private land development, agriculture, fires, and fire suppression. It is
generally accepted that water quality and habitat in the South Fork Clearwater River is in a
degraded condition, both from sediment and temperature impacts (USDA FS, 1998a).
The low population size, restricted distribution, narrow habitat requirements, and small numbers
of breeding pairs have led to the listing of harlequin ducks as sensitive. Additional sediment,
regardless of the source, could result in more deposition, bar building, cobble embeddedness,
and bank erosion in low gradient reaches that could further degrade harlequin duck habitat.
Implementation of watershed improvement projects would increase sediment delivery in the
short-term, but improve baseline habitat conditions in the long-term. -Private and public land
grazing, post, pole, and firewood cutting, and recreational access of streams could impact select
reaches of low gradient streams and disturb individual ducks. Projects within the American and
Crooked River watersheds, as well as ongoing road maintenance could contribute additional
sediment, remove stream-side,shade, and/or increase water temperatures.
In summary, the overall degraded quality of project subwatersheds could be improved by
watershed improvement projects related to this project, but other current and reasonably
foreseeable actions could further degrade water quality and affect the quality of harlequin duck
habitat. At the scale of the project, the watershed, and the South Fork Clearwater River
subbasin, harlequins could be impacted by cumulative effects on watershed quality, particularly
sedimentation. At the level of the Forest and the range of the species, effects of the American
and Crooked River Project appear small to negligible.
The sensitive species determination for Harlequin duck would be "may impact individuals or
habitat, but will not likely result in a trend toward federal listing or reduced viability for the
population or species" for alternatives B, C, D, and E.
FISHER
EXISTING CONDITION
Fishers are wide-ranging forest predators that prefer late serai habitats. In the Northern
Rockies, fishers prefer late-serai, mesic (moist) forests (Idaho Dept. of Fish & Game, et. al.
1995, p. 9). Fishers are known to occur within the South Fork Clearwater River Subbasin. A
more complete discussion of fisher ecology and habitat needs is referenced within the South
Fork Clearwater River Landscape Assessment (USDA FS, 1998a, p. 104) and in the South Fork
Clearwater River Landscape Assessment Wildlife Technical Report (USDA FS, 1998b).
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Current distribution of fishers in North America is substantially fragmented compared to their
historical (pre-European) distribution. Across the species' range, fisher populations declined in
the early twentieth century, probably due to a combination of over trapping, predator poisoning,
and habitat loss from settlement, logging and forest fires (Heinemeyer 1995). Fishers and their
habitat use were studied by Jeff Jones in the adjacent Newsome drainage and surrounding
areas near Elk City during the late 1980s (Jones 1991). Jones concluded that over-trapping
and habitat loss due to extensive fires in 1910 and 1934 were most likely responsible for the
historical decline of fishers in Idaho.
No fisher trapping is currently allowed in Idaho, but animals are occasionally caught incidental to
marten, coyote, and bobcat trapping. Trapping pressure within the project area and South Fork
Clearwater River Subbasin is currently limited due to low trapper interest (USDA FS 1998b-
USDA FS, 2004c).
Habitat in the American River drainage is substantially less impacted and fragmented by past
timber harvest and reading than habitats in the Crooked River drainage. The vegetative
conditions in the American River drainage are somewhat similar to those of Crooked River, but
habitat conditions and relative amounts and larger blocks of old growth and late serai habitats
preferred by fishers are considerably more prevalent in American River. Currently, 51 percent
of the American River drainage supports late serai habitat (USDA FS 1998a, p 141).
Both drainages are roaded and have been impacted by previous harvesting and reading
activities.
Overall however, fisher habitat has increased over historical conditions by approximately 188
percent. This can be attributable to increases in more shade tolerant tree species, like
subalpine fir and grand fir, due to fire suppression and forest succession (USDA FS,1998a, p
83).
Suitable fisher habitat in American River drainage is currently 233 percent of historic amounts.
It is 227 percent of historic amounts within the Crooked River drainage (USDA FS, 1998b). For
both drainages, conserving the integrity of late serai habitats near the upper end of their historic
range of variability would benefit fishers (USDA FS, 1998A, pp 140-141; 148).
The vegetative conditions in the lower portion of the Crooked River drainage have gentle to
moderate slopes subject to infrequent stand replacing and mixed fires. Lodgepole pine and
Western larch were once more dominant than ponderosa pine. Previous extensive harvest
entries have been relatively dispersed, and more frequent than historical fire disturbance (USDA
FS 1998b, p 148). From a larger landscape perspective, conserving late serai habitat would
benefit fisher habitats. Currently, 47 percent of the Crooked drainage supports suitable
amounts of late serai habitat (USDA FS 1998b, page 148).
Due to its relatively high elevation, the adjacent Gospel-Hump Wilderness is unlikely to be a
good candidate as a fisher core area (Idaho State Conservation Effort 1995, p.49; IN: USDA FS
1998a, p 104; and USDA FS 1998b). The RARE II roadless areas in the South Fork Subbasin
(West Meadow Creek, Lick Point, Upper American River, Pilot Knob, and Dixie Summit) also
likely have limited potential as fisher core areas due to acreage or elevation constraints (USDA
FS 1998a and USDA FS 1998b).
Fishers are believed to use selected suitable habitat portions of both drainages, though actual
sightings or track records are scant. Local trends in fisher populations remain stable based on:
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1. Population monitoring results,
2. Incidental sightings,
3. ICDC database records, and
4. Local downtrends in the two of the most commonly recognized threats to fisher and
marten populations in the western U.S. (trapping pressure and clearcutting of late
successional timber).
(NPNF 15th Annual Monitoring and Evaluation Report Draft -2002 Fisher/pine marten
monitoring data - Item 10 Population Trends of Indicator Species , Nez Perce National Forest,
2004).
The size of a male fisher's home range is larger than that of a female. Fisher home ranges in
north-central Idaho were 2 to 15 times larger than other reported fisher home ranges, and
averaged 82.6 km2 (20,400 acres) for males and 40.8 km2 (10,080 acres) for females (Jones
1991, pg. 103). Even when home range size estimates were standardized across multiple
studies, those in Idaho remained much larger than estimates from other geographic areas
(Heinemeyer and Jones 1994, p iii, 12).
For this analysis, fisher summer habitat was defined as large trees (greater than 15 inches dbh)
in mixed conifer and mixed subalpine fir forests. Mesic lodgepole pine was also determined to
be considered summer habitat where diameters are greater than 10 inches. Fisher use appears
in stands with greater than 40 percent canopy cover, but our dataset does not allow us to select
for this. Instead, moderate to high canopy closure was selected (greater than or equal to 25
percent). Winter habitat was defined as summer habitat plus pole-sized trees (greater than 10
inches dbh) with greater than 25 percent canopy cover and drier lodgepole pine habitat types.
The following table (Table 3.151) shows the acres of each habitat for the two watersheds (and
percent of habitat within the two watersheds).
TABLE 3.151 - ESTIMATED ACRES OF FISHER HABITAT
Watershed ',
American River
Crooked River
: Summer Habitat Acres ,
- '•" *{%wtredK T -'- '-:•
38,326 (65%)
21,727(48%)
;h Winter habitat acres
• ' ^'-fK'WftnMljiJV •
40,651 (69%)
27,328 (60%)
By assuming an average home range size of acres per female fisher (Jones 1991), an analytical
index was developed to compare the effects of each alternative. Under the existing condition,
40,600 acres of habitat could support about 4 fisher females in American River and 27,300
acres could support about 2.7 fisher females in Crooked River. It is important to realize that this
number is simply an analytical index and in no way attempts to measure actual densities or
numbers of fisher on the landscape.
The results of the Forest-wide Forest Inventory and Analysis indicate that, overall, fisher habitat
is widely distributed across the Forest (this includes summer and winter habitat). The total
potential fisher habitat represents approximately 33 percent of the forested lands forest-wide
with a 90 percent confidence interval of 29 to 37 percent. Within the American River watershed,
total fisher habitat (represented by winter habitat as summer habitat is included in the
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calculations) amounts to 53 percent of the forested lands and 11 percent in the Crooked River
watershed. The following table (Table 3.152) displays the FIA data at three scales:
1. Forest,
2. Subbasin (4th HUC), and
3. Watershed (5th HUC).
The amount and distribution of habitat is both a reflection of the capability and current condition
of the landscape, as well as the number of plots across the landscape.
TABLE 3.152-DATA AT THREE SCALES FOR PERCENT FISHER SUMMER AND WINTER HABITATI
Species
Summer
Habitat
Fisher
Winter
Habitat
NezPerce Forest
Cl
Low
17
29
Mean
20
33
Cl
High
23
37
South Fork
Clearwater River
Cl
Low
20
35
Mean
26
43
a
High
33
51
American River
Watershed
Cl
Low
13
32
Mean
28
53
Cl
High
45
75
Crooked River
Watershed
Cl
Low
0
0
Mean
7
11
Cl
High
25
27
Estimates of fisher habitat based on R1VMP and the FIA data differ primarily due to the
divisions for size class and canopy cover categories being slightly different between the two
datasets. R1VMP also provides a spatial context not represented by the FIA data.
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
The Habitat Conservation Assessment for Fisher in Idaho suggests that although fisher trapping
seasons are closed in Idaho, incidental trapping mortality may limit populations in the state
(Idaho Dept. of Fish and Game, 1995, p 6). Because old growth timber is considered important
to fishers, none of the alternatives will harvest in existing old growth timber. Likewise, protection
of RHCAs (riparian habitat conservation areas) and selected replacement old growth stands
have been incorporated into the project design along with retention of key replacement old
growth stands to help maintain patch sizes and connectivity. A fundamental aim of the project is
removal of fuel-loading from dead and dying lodgepole pine. Most of the lodgepole pine of 6
inches or greater diameter in the analysis area will no longer contribute to forest canopy cover
irrespective of alternative harvest plans. Effects of each alternative on fishers and their habitats
should also factor in the reduced risks (if any), for subsequent habitat losses due to future fire
impacts.
Noxious weeds, watershed restoration actions, and post-harvest slash treatments using
prescribed fire are not expected to impact fishers or their habitats considerably, regardless of
alternative. Road decommissioning levels would be expected to help reduce motorized access
on existing roads, contributing to reductions in fisher mortality risks from trapping. Based on
Forest inventory and analysis data at three scales for percent fisher summer and winter habitat including 90
percent confidence intervals (Cl low and Cl high).
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best available information, the analysis criteria for fisher will be the extent to which each
alternative
1. Conserves or protects the integrity of late serai habitats,
2. The amount of habitat modified by each alternative, and
3. The degree to which each alternative provides security by limiting mortality risks from
incidental trapping, because densities of accessible roads and trails facilitates human
access.
ALTERNATIVE A - NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
This 'no action' alternative would have no immediate, direct negative or positive impacts on the
fisher or its habitat. As local stands mature and decline with their attendant fuel-buildups, lethal,
stand-replacing fire risks would become more prevalent. Such risks would increase the
chances of late serai habitat losses to wildfires (refer to Section 3.4 - Fire for details). No direct
or indirect changes in access would occur, so security would not improve. Existing road access
levels that facilitate potential trapping for other furbearers (traps in which fisher could get
caught) would remain unchanged.
Existing fisher habitat would not be harvested under this alternative. In general, mature, high-
canopied habitat would increase and small-tree winter habitat would decrease as forest
succession continues to fill in understories and increase stand canopy closure. In
predominantly lodgepole pine stands, additional trees would die as a result of the mountain pine
beetle epidemic and dead trees would eventually fall to the ground. This process would create
suitable habitat and niches for at least some of the small mammal species fisher prey upon.
Fishers do not forage in openings; therefore, areas with significant fallen lodgepole pine would
only provide habitat along the edges of these newly opened areas. High densities of downed
logs, shading from snags, and lack of seed sources may delay the regeneration of new trees
relative to harvested areas and extend the length of time it would take for new small tree and
mature habitats to develop. In RHCAs, trees killed by insects and other successional processes
and not cut for firewood would fall to the ground and into streams enhancing structural diversity
in these areas.
Fuel build-up resulting from fire suppression activities would continue, thereby increasing the
likelihood of a stand-replacing fire. Stand-replacing fires could potentially reduce mature and
old growth habitat across the project area, depending on the size and severity of the
disturbance. Similarly, fuel loads along streams and RHCAs would continue to increase and
may expose these environments to intense fires. Stands of dead and dying lodgepole pine are
particularly vulnerable to stand-replacing fires; small tree lodgepole pine winter habitat would
likely be lost in a fire event. An increase of large logs on the ground due to fire or insect
epidemics could provide denning structures and cover for fisher and several prey species, but
these areas are likely to be avoided until the living canopy cover again exceeds 40 percent.
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ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, AND E
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
Treatments that include green and dead tree harvest to improve forest health and reduce the
incidence of insects and disease would affect both summer habitat and winter habitat for fishers.
The changes in habitat acres are outlined in Tables 3.153 and 3.154 by alternative. Alternative
E would modify the fewest acres of fisher winter habitat (less than 1 percent and about 3
percent of existing winter habitat in American and Crooked Rivers, respectively), and alternative
D would modify the greatest acreage (about 2 percent and 5 percent of existing winter habitat in
American and Crooked Rivers, respectively). The least amount of summer habitat would be
harvested by alternative E (less than 1 percent and about 3 percent of existing summer habitat
in American and Crooked Rivers, respectively); while alternative D would harvest the largest
amounts (about 2 percent and 5 percent of existing summer habitat in American and Crooked
Rivers, respectively). Using our analytical index, under alternatives B, C, D, and E, enough
fisher habitat would remain in the project area to support about 3.9 female fishers in American
River and 2.6 female fisher in Crooked River. Basically, a slight reduction from the existing
condition.
TABLE 3.153- ESTIMATED ACRES OF FISHER HABITAT MODIFIED BY EACH ACTION ALTERNATIVE
(AMERICAN RIVER)
American River
Acres (%) summer Habitat treated
Acres (%) winter habitat treated
Alt. A
0
0
Ait. B
425(1%)
460(1%)
Alt. C
480(1%)
515(1%)
Ait. D
780 (2%)
823 (2%)
Alt. E
246 (<1%)
262 (<1%)
TABLE 3.154 - ESTIMATED ACRES OF FISHER HABITAT MODIFIED BY EACH ACTION ALTERNATIVE
(CROOKED RIVER)
CROOKED RIVER
Acres (%) summer Habitat treated
Acres (%) winter habitat treated
Alt. A
0
0
Alt. B
827 (4%)
1001 (4%)
Alt. C
916(4%)
1105(4%)
Alt. D
1,063(5%)
1288 (5%)
AIt.E
740 (3%)
898 (3%)
In the Northern Rockies, fishers evolved under a disturbance regime that created numerous
openings in a matrix of mature forested habitats. The conversion of some percentage of older
age class lodgepole pine and mixed conifer habitats to younger age classes could promote a
diversity of prey species and thus have long-term benefits for fisher populations. At localized
levels, it would also reduce the probability of fire spreading to proximate high quality fisher
habitats. Tree planting and site preparation, such as the removal of dead and downed wood
through burning, would accelerate regeneration of green canopy cover. However, removing
downed woody material and canopy cover used by fisher and their prey could reduce suitable
habitat short-term. Fishers do not forage in openings and would avoid using newly harvested
units except perhaps along the edges of those units.
None of the action alternatives would harvest trees in RHCAs except those individual trees that
would be removed during temporary road construction, road reconstruction, or while creating
cable corridors. Connectivity along riparian habitat corridors would remain intact for all action
alternatives. As with the 'no action' alternative, trees killed by insects and other successional
processes and not cut for firewood would fall to the ground and into streams enhancing
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structural diversity in these areas. However, fuel loads along streams and RHCAs would
continue to increase and may expose these environments to intense fires.
The temporary increase of human activity in the planning area associated with harvest and
vegetative treatments could increase the possibility of human-fisher interactions. As mitigation,
all current access closures would be maintained as part of the proposed project.
Action alternatives would not harvest in any existing old growth timber. Moderate harvest levels
would have limited direct impacts on fisher habitat due to increased overall habitat
fragmentation. Treated stands would provide moderate levels of on-site fuel reduction. As local
stands mature and decline with their attendant fuel-buildups, lethal, stand-replacing fire risks
would become more prevalent with attendant risks to untreated late serai habitats (refer to
Section 3.4 - Fire for details).
Security would improve slightly, particularly in the American River drainage where most of the
large blocks of prime old growth habitat remain. Security levels in the Crooked River portion of
the analysis area would remain at comparatively low levels, similar to Alternative A.
Alternatives B and C would modestly improve habitat security compared to Alternative A by
reducing motorized access, particularly in the American River portion of the analysis area, but
the Crooked River portion would remain the same as Alternative A. Alternatives D and E would
improve habitat security to the highest level and positive effects would accrue to both the
American and Crooked River portions of the analysis area compared to Alternatives A, B, and
C.
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS (INCLUDES FORESEEABLE FUTURE ACTIONS)
Risks of fire-spread losses in old growth or other late serai stands would become cumulative to
past and present effects of fire exclusion in the analysis area. Whether these effects would
extend outside the analysis area is uncertain. The 'no action' alternative would have no certain
cumulative effects on the fisher or its habitat other than fire and security risks, which would
eventually become additive to the past effects of reading, logging, incidental trapping risks, fire
exclusion and other human disturbances of normal ecosystem processes and forest pattern.
Principally due to cumulative risks for future habitat losses to fire and access effects, the
sensitive species determination for fisher under the 'no action' alternative would be "may impact
individuals or habitat, but will not likely result in a trend toward federal listing or reduced viability
for the population or species."
Action alternatives would add moderately to forest fragmentation levels in the analysis area,
which would be cumulative to past, present, and other foreseeable harvest activities in these
drainages. It would reduce fuels at relatively moderate levels, potentially contributing to less fire
risks to old growth and late serai habitats. The action alternatives would also moderately
reduce potential levels of human access, thereby helping to reduce mortality risks from trapping.
Past insect outbreaks, fires, fire suppression, and timber harvest have left a mosaic of habitats
on the landscape, but they are not characteristic of the patterns that occurred historically under
a more natural disturbance regime. Most harvest units are simple, uniformly-shaped, small to
medium-sized patches (greater than 40 acres), without snags or large fire-resistant trees. Gone
in these areas are the important snag, down wood, and residual large tree components that
provide the structural diversity preferred by fishers once a stand regenerates. Past activities
may have altered the availability of denning habitat, forested connectivity, and prey habitat for
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fisher. The loss of medium and large trees from timber harvest has reduced the older forest
component that is important to fisher year-round. Across the analysis area, open roads facilitate
access for trappers and firewood cutters, potentially decreasing fisher populations and the
downed logs important for fisher and their prey species.
This and other projects in the area, target dead, dying, and merchantable green lodgepole pine
and other tree species in some capacity. Cumulatively, the loss of important small tree habitat
for fishers could affect fisher populations in the project area and in the American and Crooked
River watersheds. Adding to this situation is the fact that many additional stands of small tree
lodgepole pine and mixed conifer that are not proposed for timber harvest or silvicultural
treatments are being altered or lost by a more "natural" process of bug kill, decay, and fire.
Projects that do not consider the distribution of the mountain pine beetle-caused openings
relative to project activities could result in greatly reduced fisher winter habitat across the
landscape. At the project and watershed levels, fisher populations could be affected. However,
at the Forest level and across the range of the species, the effects of past, present, and
reasonably foreseeable future actions appear small to negligible.
The sensitive species determination for fisher would be "may impact individuals or habitat, but
will not likely result in a trend toward federal listing or reduced viability for the population or
species" for alternatives B, C, D, and E.
BLACK-BACKED WOODPECKER
EXISTING CONDITION
Black-backed woodpeckers inhabit boreal forests throughout North America, including Idaho.
Suitable habitats may be found in lodgepole pine, ponderosa pine, Douglas-fir, and mixed
conifer forests, especially those experiencing insect infestations, Optimal habitat is provided by
sites experiencing destructive insect infestations, such as bark beetles or recent ( greater than 5
year old) burned-over forests. A more thorough discussion is referenced in the South Fork
Clearwater River Landscape Assessment Wildlife Technical Report (USDA FS, 1998b). Black-
backed woodpeckers evolved with and have become dependent on natural landscape
disturbances, particularly fire but also areas experiencing insect infestations. They are also
relatively nomadic, displaying "irruptive dispersal" in response to habitat changes, and will move
to large areas where fire-killed dead and/or dying trees are infected with bark and wood-boring
beetles. As a result, the species displays extensive dispersal capabilities. The most expansive
mountain pine beetle outbreak documented within the Northern Region of the Forest Service
occurred on the Nez Perce National Forest where nearly 117,000 acres were identified as
infested in 2003 alone (USDA, Forest Insect and Disease Conditions in the United States 2003,
August 2004d, p. 54). Similarly, the project area and surrounding drainages are currently
predominantly infested with mountain pine beetle, with pockets of other insect damage. Areas
impacted by the mountain pine beetle infestation within and around the project area now total at
least 250,000 acres conservatively. Such sites provide the specialized habitat conditions
required for nesting and feeding by this bird. In addition, recent wildfires have occurred
adjacent to the American and Crooked River drainages (Slims Fire on the Selway-American
River divide to the north; and Wilderness Fires along the Salmon River south of Crooked River).
Pockets of crown fires or areas with stand-replacing fires have created high quality habitat for
this species for the next few years.
After stand-replacing fires, forests consist almost entirely of standing dead snags. Starting
immediately after the fire, these snags are colonized by wood-boring beetles, which attract
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woodpeckers. Black-backed woodpeckers seem to depend on one- to six-year-old burns, and
their numbers may peak two to three years after fires (Hejl and McFadzen 1999, Murphy and
Lenhausen 1998). Black-backed woodpeckers will also forage in stands undergoing bark beetle
outbreaks, but density estimates in these stands are substantially lower than in post-fire forests
(Powell 2000). Black-backed woodpeckers move to stands and trees following active beetles,
and abandon sites in which the trees have died. Home range sizes are relatively small,
averaging about 300 acres per bird (range: 175-810 acres) (Dixon and Saab 2000). Goggans et
al. (1988) state that black-backed woodpeckers' home range size may be related to the
proportion of the range that is unlogged; the largest home range in their study had the smallest
proportion of unlogged habitat.
In the study conducted by Goggans et al. (1988), all nests were located in lodgepole pine trees,
and live as well as dead trees were used for nests. Smaller trees were utilized -- the mean size
of nest trees was 11 dbh, and mean stem size of nesting stands was eight inches dbh. Bull et
al. (1986) found black-backed woodpecker nests in both ponderosa pines (67 percent) and
lodgepole pines (27 percent). Mean dbh of nest trees was 15 inches, and 60 percent of these
trees were dead. These researchers noted that black-backed woodpecker selection of smaller
trees is unusual, as most woodpecker species nest in larger dead trees.
SOUTH FORK LANDSCAPE ASSESSMENT (USDA FS1998A):
Up until the recently expanded mountain pine beetle epidemic, it was acknowledged that as a
whole, suitable habitat for black-backed woodpeckers had likely declined more for this bird than
for any other wildlife species. In the American River drainage, black-backed woodpecker
habitat was only 88 percent of historic levels. Black-backed woodpecker habitat was at 141
percent of historic in the Crooked River ERU (USDA FS, 1998b). This can be attributable to
decreases in large patches of fire-killed trees having declined with fire suppression (USDA FS,
1998a, p. 84). A more detailed account is referenced in the South Fork Clearwater River
Landscape Assessment (p. 101 and 106), however, the very wide extent and magnitude of the
mountain pine beetle epidemic has substantially changed these circumstances. The
management theme for wildlife (USDA FS 1998a, pp. 140, 148), identifies treatment objectives
for black-backed woodpecker within the American and Crooked River drainages to "produce
post-fire early serai habitat" by applying lethal severity prescribed burns in lodgepole pine as
well as partial harvest of mid or late serai forest followed by burning.
Based on the extent and progression of the current mountain pine beetle epidemic in both
American and Crooked River drainages and surrounding areas, the extent of the beetle
epidemic has created many thousands of new acres of suitable black-backed woodpecker
habitat. In addition, lethal severity fires are a high probability outcome throughout much of the
analysis area in years ahead.
The South Fork Landscape Assessment (USDA FS, 1998b) states that, "When pre-burn harvest
is used, approximately 50 percent of the trees should be retained for burning with preference
given to larger size classes." The planned harvest of up to approximately 3,400 acres in the
American-Crooked project will remove less than 1 percent of the total landscape affected by the
current mountain pine beetles infestation on the Nez Perce National Forest. Planned harvests
will impact about 9 percent of the project area, leaving conservatively more than 50 percent of
the landscape (accounting for harvest-related reduced fire intensities) potentially available to be
influenced by fires.
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For this analysis, black-backed woodpecker foraging and nesting habitat was defined as
lodgepole pine or mixed xeric conifer forest with a lodgepole pine component with pole and
larger sized trees (trees greater than 5 inches dbh) of any canopy closure (10-100 percent)
The following table (Table 3.155) shows the acres of each habitat for the two watersheds (and
percent of habitat within the two watersheds).
TABLE 3.155 - ESTIMATED ACRES OF BLACK-BACKED WOODPECKER HABITAT
Watershed
American River
Crooked River
Habitat Acres (% wtrsd)
19,014(32%)
18,742(41%)
By assuming a home range size of 1,000 acres per pair, an index was developed to compare
the effects of each alternative. Under the existing condition, 19,014 acres of habitat could
support about 19 black-backed woodpecker pairs in the American River and 18,742 acres could
support about 18 black-backed woodpecker pairs in Crooked River. It is important to realize
that this number is simply an analytical index and in no way attempts to measure actual
densities or numbers of black-backed woodpeckers on the landscape. Black-backed
woodpecker home ranges can vary in size according to the amount of logged habitat and the
continuity or disconnectedness of that habitat. It is also not known how much home range
overlap might exist within or between black-backed pairs.
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
Noxious weeds, road decommissioning, watershed restoration actions, and post-harvest slash
treatments using fire are not expected to impact black-backed woodpeckers or their habitats
considerably (regardless of alternative). The removal of dead, dying, and green trees would
remove foraging and nesting sites, and would constitute habitat losses. The net effects of
harvest on black-backed woodpeckers would be relatively minor within the context of each
alternative and landscape acres under beetle attack. Based on available information, the
analysis criteria for black-backed woodpecker will be the relative amounts of lodgepole pine
retained after harvest that will likely remain in place or available to subsequently burn and
become highly suitable for use. The average percentage of lodgepole pine within harvest units
in all action alternatives ranges from approximately 60-70 percent, so alternatives with highest
harvest acreages would yield the highest relative impacts.
ALTERNATIVE A- NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
The 'no action' alternative would have no direct effect on black-backed woodpecker or its
habitat. This alternative would indirectly leave stands unharvested. This would maintain all
predominantly lodgepole pine stands in preparation for future wildfire impacts, which in turn
could potentially become beneficial to black-backed woodpeckers as foraging and nesting
habitats.
As forest succession and fire suppression occur in overstocked stands, trees become more
susceptible to attack from insects and disease. This increases the amount of foraging and
nesting resources available to black-backed woodpeckers. As the insect and disease outbreak
advances, standing and down dead material would increase, which in turn increases the risk of
stand-replacing fires. If a fire event were to occur, wood-boring beetle populations would spike
causing a concurrent spike in black-backed woodpeckers for one to six years post burn.
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Without a fire event, the insect outbreak would eventually peak and subside. Grand fir and
other more shade tolerant species that currently exist in the understory of stands with dead and
dying trees would continue to grow, perhaps eventually causing the long-term loss of the early
serai tree species black-backed woodpeckers prefer (e.g., lodgepole pine and ponderosa pine).
The risk of losing early serai species does not seem as high as the risk of stand-replacing fires
in the American and Crooked River watersheds. Under the 'no action' alternative, the existing
level of patchiness in the watershed would persist until a stand-replacing fire or other
management action(s) take place.
The sensitive species determination for black-backed woodpecker would be "may impact
individuals or habitat, but will not likely result in a trend toward federal listing or reduced viability
for the population or species".
ALTERNATIVE B, C, D, AND E
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
Treatments that include green and dead tree harvest to improve forest health and reduce the
incidence of insects and disease would reduce habitat for black-backed woodpeckers. Not only
would the habitat they are using be modified, the patchiness of the remaining habitat would
increase. The changes in habitat acres are outlined in Table 3.156 by alternative.
TABLE 3.156- ESTIMATED ACRES OF BLACK-BACKED WOODPECKER HABITAT MODIFIED BY ACTION
ALTERNATIVE
American River
Acres (%) Habitat treated
Crooked River
Acres (%) Habitat treated
Alt A
0
Alt A
0
Alt B
328 (2%)
Alt B
673 (4%)
Alt. C
406 (2%)
Alt. C
723 (4%)
Alt. D
519(3%)
AltD
904 (5%)
Alt. E
159(<1%)
AltE
579 (3%)
While Alternative D results in greatest loss of future foraging and nesting habitat opportunities,
the loss would still be relatively minor and inconsequential in both drainages, similar to other
alternatives. The relative amounts of dead and dying lodgepole pine in stands that will remain
unharvested in both the American and Crooked River watersheds dwarfs the harvested acres
many fold.
Alternative E would modify the fewest acres of black-backed woodpecker habitat (about
1 percent of the existing habitat in American River and 3 percent in Crooked River), and
alternative D would modify the greatest acreage (about 3 percent of existing habitat in American
River and 5 percent in Crooked River). Using an analytical index, under alternatives B, C, D,
and E enough foraging and nesting habitat would remain in the project area to support 18 and
17 pairs of black-backed woodpeckers in American and Crooked River drainages, respectively.
Scientific literature shows that the amount of logged versus unlogged habitat on the landscape,
both pre- and post-fire, affects black-backed woodpecker distribution and home range size!
With 10 percent and 11 percent of the American and Crooked River drainages, respectively,
having been harvested in the last 50 years, the project area does exhibit patchiness. Additional
green and dead tree harvest from one of the action alternatives will add to the patchiness of the
landscape.
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CUMULATIVE EFFECTS (INCLUDES FORESEEABLE FUTURE ACTIONS)
The 'no action' alternative would in effect, have positive cumulative effects on black-backed
woodpecker habitat availability. Absence of fuel reduction and principally lodgepole pine
harvest, would add cumulatively to overall risks of eventual fire spread, but potential
maximization retention of habitat creation for black-backed woodpeckers would result in both
drainages. Ultimately, this alternative would serve the local habitat needs of black-backed
woodpeckers best and the impacts would be positive.
Action alternatives would result in habitat losses. Such losses add moderately to cumulative
losses of existing and potential future black-backed woodpecker habitat related to previous
harvests, reading, and post-disturbance harvest projects as well as reasonably foreseeable
harvests on private and nearby BLM lands in the analysis area. While losses of existing and
future foraging and nesting habitat opportunities would result from this project, the loss would be
relatively minor and inconsequential in both drainages, but particularly in the Crooked River
drainage. The relative acres proposed for mechanical harvest are only a very small portion of
the total acres that are dead and dying. These acres are likely to burn by wildfires and become
high quality habitat in the future, therefore the relative amount of anticipated black-backed
woodpecker habitat predicted to be lost to. harvest is relatively minor within the analysis area
and relatively inconsequential. The mountain pine beetle epidemic has created many
thousands of acres of highly suitable black-backed woodpecker habitat, making habitat losses
to both harvest and reduced fire incidence relatively minor.
Activities that -reduce the potential for wildfire and insect outbreaks reduce habitat for black-
backed woodpeckers, which in turn affect black-backed population levels. Projects within the
upper South Fork Clearwater drainages all target fuel loading and bug-infested trees in some
capacity. Ongoing activities such as post and pole gathering, firewood cutting, road
maintenance, and fire suppression also affect habitats that could be utilized by black-backed
woodpeckers. Past timber harvest activities have created a patchy landscape across the
watershed, which has likely resulted in larger black-backed woodpecker home ranges than
would be the case in unlogged habitats. Larger home ranges affect the energy reserves of
animals, as they must travel greater distances for their daily needs. Many past timber activities
left few snags on the landscape that could be utilized for black-backed foraging, nesting, or
drumming sites. At the project and watershed level, black-backed woodpecker populations
could decline as a result of past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future actions.
Forest-wide, by far the largest and most intense insect outbreak is in and around the American,
Crooked, and Red River watersheds. However, other areas of the Forest have insects and
disease present and large insect outbreaks are possible in these areas. In addition, other areas
of the Forest have and will burn, thus creating habitat for black-backed woodpeckers. Black-
backed woodpeckers are capable of responding quickly to favorable conditions created by
large, intense fires and insect outbreaks, and they can move several miles to take advantage of
such opportunities. At the Forest level, impacts of this project proposal and other projects in
and around the American, Crooked, and Red River watersheds appear small.
Across the range of the species, especially the Interior Columbia River Basin, moderate or
strong declines in unburned habitats used by black-backed woodpeckers have occurred. The
natural pattern of beetle outbreaks has been altered through silvicultural and fire management
practices. Silvicultural practices directed at maximizing wood production by harvesting trees
before they are susceptible to bark beetle attacks and salvage logging of beetle-infested, fire-
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killed, and wind-killed trees reduced the occurrence of beetles in some areas. Fire
management policies have lengthened natural fire regimes and allowed more frequent
occurrences of beetles. However, the effects of most of these past actions and events are
imbedded in the existing condition described above. At the level of the species, impacts of the
American and Crooked River proposal and other past, present, and reasonably foreseeable
future actions in and around the American and Crooked River watersheds appear negligible.
With a management emphasis on returning fire (both natural and prescribed) to the landscape,
prospects for this species appear brighter.
TOWNSEND'S BIG-EARED BAT
EXISTING CONDITION
Townsend's big-eared bats are considered true cave species, although they may occasionally
roost in lava tubes, mines, buildings, and other human-made structures. Known or potential
cave and roost habitats for this bat in Idaho are believed to be restricted to the lower, warmer
elevations along the Salmon River (Idaho Dept. of Fish and Game, et a/., 1995. Townsend's
Big-Eared Bat Habitat Conservation Assessment (HCA) and Conservation Strategy (CS) Draft).
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS - ALL ALTERNATIVES
Townsend's big-eared bats are not known to occupy any portions of the higher elevation
habitats within either the American or Crooked River drainages. For this reason, there are
expected to be "no impacts" on the Townsend's big-eared bat or its habitat under any
alternative. As a result, it will not be analyzed or discussed further in this document.
COEUR D'ALENE SALAMANDER
EXISTING CONDITION
The southernmost edge of the range of the Coeur d' Alene salamander extends only to the
Selway drainage (Cassirer et a/., 1995). The Selway drainage is north, well outside the project
area and treatment area boundaries. Neither the American nor the Crooked River drainages
have any record of Coeur d' Alene salamander presence or suitable habitat.
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS - ALL ALTERNATIVES
Due to both habitat and species absence rationale listed above, no impacts are anticipated from
any alternatives on the Coeur d' Alene salamander or its habitat. For this reason, they will not
be analyzed or discussed further in this document.
FRINGED MYOTIS BATS
EXISTING CONDITION
This species prefers dry coniferous forests and uses caves, buildings, bridges, crevices and
large cavities for roosting.
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS - ALL ALTERNATIVES
Fringed myotis bats are not known to occupy any portions of the higher elevation habitats within
either the American or Crooked River drainages. For this reason, there are expected to be "no
impacts" on the fringed myotis bat or its habitat under any alternative. As a result, it will not be
analyzed or discussed further in this document.
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BLACK SWIFT
EXISTING CONDITION
This species requires moist cliff environments for nesting. It builds nest on cliff ledges, near or
behind waterfalls or in shallow caves.
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS - ALL ALTERNATIVES
High relief waterfalls are not present in the project area. For this reason, there are expected to
be "no impacts" on the black swift or its habitat under any alternative. As a result, it will not be
analyzed or discussed further in this document.
PYGMY NUTHATCH
EXISTING CONDITION
This species shows a strong preference for mature ponderosa pine habitats. They feed on pine
seeds and insects extracted from the bark of trees.
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
No alternatives directly or indirectly impact low elevation stands of ponderosa pine that may be
considered pygmy nuthatch habitat. While pockets of small diameter ponderosa pine trees
within some mixed conifer stands may be thinned or individual dead/dying pines along haul
routes may be harvested, these components are not part of lower elevation pine stands suitable
in elevation for this species. No large diameter ponderosa pine are being considered for
harvest. No indirect or cumulative negative effects of the project have been identified relative to
this bird or its habitats. For this reason, no impacts are projected for pygmy nuthatches under
any alternative and they will not be analyzed or discussed further in this document. The
sensitive species determination for the pygmy nuthatch would be "no impact" for all alternatives
None of the project alternatives negatively affect conditions necessary for species viability.
RINGNECK SNAKE
EXISTING CONDITION
The ringneck snake occurs in low elevation, grassy, shrubby, or rocky canyons. The American
and Crooked River project does not contain habitat for this species.
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
For this reason, no impacts are projected for ringneck snake under any alternative and they will
not be analyzed or discussed further in this document.
3.11.3. INDICATOR 3 - OTHER MANAGEMENT INDICATOR SPECIES
ELK
EXISTING CONDITION
Historically, elk were likely somewhat widespread but sparsely populated in most areas but fairly
common in the South Fork Clearwater River Subbasin's coniferous forests. Early in the
twentieth century, when large wildfires created extensive forage areas and other effects of
settlement manifested themselves, the stage was set for elk population increases. In recent
decades, elk populations have stabilized and begun to decline because of forest successional
advancement on winter ranges and greater hunting mortality (USDA FS, 1998b). Due to recent
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declines in elk herd numbers and productivity data for elk hunt units of the Clearwater subbasin,
regional sportsmen's organizations and the Idaho Dept. of Fish and Game have voiced a desire
to increase forest vegetative treatment activities and other disturbances that will help restore elk
forage and improve overall elk habitat productivity locally.
Elk habitat is categorized into summer and winter range. At the larger scale, winter range is
considered a major habitat limiting factor for elk populations in the South Fork Clearwater River
Subbasin. Winter range is essentially absent in project portions of the American River drainage
and only a very limited amount of winter range (along lower Crooked River) exists in the
Crooked River drainage. Harvest and fuel reduction treatments of the American and Crooked
River Project are planned to occur outside winter ranges, at elevations considered elk summer
range.
The criteria for elk in the American and Crooked River Project will be relative adherence to
Forest Plan summer elk habitat management objectives. Summer ranges are managed
according to Forest Plan elk summer habitat objectives of 25, 50, 75 or 100 percent, and areas
are subdivided into analysis units for assessment purposes. The affected elk analysis units,
their current habitat conditions and Forest Plan objective percentages within American and
Crooked River include: Marten Meadows 84/75; American River 72/50; Queen Creek 77/50;
Relief Creek 60/50; Kirks Fork 83/75; and Deadwood 52/50. Since these units were originally
analyzed in the early 1990s, some domestic livestock use in some units has diminished. In
addition, more than a decade of tree growth in more recent harvest unit plantations has moved
many units into "hiding cover" condition, which has helped improve overall habitat conditions for
elk.
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
Direct disturbances from harvest actions, reading, watershed restoration actions and other
similar activities will temporarily disturb or displace elk in all action alternatives, but these
impacts would be limited in duration. Elk can avoid such disturbances by using ridges and
visual barriers. Noxious weeds that could pioneer burned sites would negatively impact elk
foraging areas by displacing desirable plants, but this would not be expected to be sufficiently
extensive or widespread enough to be of major significance under any action alternative.
Noxious weeds can reduce available forage for elk and degrade long term habitat quality where
infestations become severe. Road decommissioning, watershed restoration actions, and post-
harvest slash treatments using fire are not expected to negatively impact elk or their habitats
considerably, regardless of alternative.
Guidelines for Evaluating and Managing Summer Elk Habitat in Northern Idaho (USDA FS,
1987c, Appendix B), is used to analyze units for potential elk use. In evaluating potential elk
use, this habitat suitability index model factors in several variables affecting elk use including
open roads, livestock densities and other factors such as cover, forage, and security areas.
Summary results of Elk Analysis Units (EAUs) are listed below.
During field reviews and harvest site inventories for the American/Crooked River Project, a
limited number of unauthorized and undocumented ATV trail segments created by unknown
users were discovered. No formal inventory of the numbers and extent of unauthorized ATV
trails in the analysis area currently exists and thus is uncertain. Those unauthorized trails
discovered during field inventories were not considered extensive enough to result in
considerable changes to overall elk habitat effectiveness. Analyses included data from both
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inventoried roads and trails. Unauthorized trail segments were not incorporated into the
roads/trails analysis portion of the elk modeling results listed because they are not mapped and
designated and were deemed immeasurable.
Motorized travel prevention effectiveness of each road decommissioning action may vary
slightly. Effectiveness of motorized travel restrictions on decommissioned roads will relate to
the site-by-site conditions after decommissioning, relying specifically on road prism recontouring
in combination with slash and/or existing vegetative barriers and camouflage or concealment of
roadway entrances.
ALTERNATIVE A - NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
Elk summer habitat effectiveness throughout the analysis area would remain in concert with
Forest Plan objectives in all Elk Analysis Units (EAUs). Indirectly, this alternative would fully
meet or exceed Forest Plan summer elk objectives in the short term, but as deadfall from fuel
buildups continued, the attractiveness of much of the area to elk would likely decline due to
perceived travel impairments and predator escape difficulties. This alternative would have the
greatest fuel buildup and consequently the post-fire conditions and risks in unharvested sites
may precipitate greater pioneering by noxious weeds.
There would be no short-term changes to summer elk habitat under this alternative, and road
decommissioning would not occur. Summer elk habitat potential would be maintained as
depicted by the existing condition, at least short-term. As a result of fire suppression,
succession will continue. Open patch sizes will continue to decrease as ingrowth fills and
matures in old openings; conifers will encroach in grasslands. This process decreases the
nutritional value and availability of transitional and summer forage. If wildfires were to occur in
the area, forage areas could be replenished, but existing cover would decrease. As the
mountain pine beetle epidemic continues, areas that currently provide cover will become too
open to serve that function. As numerous dead trees fall to the ground, debris in certain areas
may become too deep for elk to move through. Downed logs, shading from snags, and lack of
seed sources may delay the regeneration of new trees relative to harvested areas, but so too
might the growth of grasses and shrubs be delayed.
ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, AND E
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
Alternatives B and C would slightly improve habitat conditions in the American River portion of
the drainage, due mostly to modest reductions in open road access. Conditions in the Crooked
River portion of the area would remain the same or decline slightly due principally to road
access and changes in cover. Moderate levels of harvest, followed predominantly with
prescription fire to remove logging slash, would help stimulate regrowth of nutritious forage
plants important to elk nutrition.
Overall, the effects of implementing Alternative D would be similar to Alternative E, because of
similar post-project access restrictions on motorized use of roads. With respect to creation of
foraging areas, Alternative D harvests and treats the most acres with post-logging prescription
fire, which would generate the greatest forage.
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Alternative E would improve summer habitat effectiveness the most, even though harvest
acreages and forage generation are lowest of all action alternatives. This is principally due to
reductions in motorized access levels on roadways resulting from road decommissioning.
Improvements in overall habitat effectiveness would be realized in both the American and
Crooked River portions of the project area in this alternative.
The following table shows the new elk habitat effectiveness (EHE) numbers, which were
calculated as a measure of the effects of each action alternative on summer elk habitat. In the
American River Elk Analysis Unit (EAU), EHE numbers would decrease for alternatives B and
C, and increase above existing condition for alternatives D and E. EHE numbers would
increase across all action alternatives in Marten Meadows, Queen's Creek, and Kirk's Fork
EAUs. In Deadwood Creek, EHE numbers would remain stable for all action alternatives except
increase with alternative E. Alternatives D and E would improve EHE numbers in Relief Creek,
but decrease under the other action alternatives.
Alternative E would result in the most EAUs, with increased elk habitat effectiveness in six
EHEs, followed by alternatives D, B, and C. Under all alternatives, the risk of stand-replacing
fires would decrease locally. By removing dead material and conducting some burns, browse
species could be rejuvenated and resprouting would occur.
TABLE 3.157 - PERCENT ELK HABITAT EFFECTIVENESS BY EAU AND ALTERNATIVE
(Note: Higher percentage equates to better habitat)
ELK ANALYSIS
UNIT AND NUMBER
Marten Meadows - 58121
American River- 58122
Queen Cr. -58131
Kirk's Fork -581 61
Deadwood - 38201
Relief Cr. - 3821 1
FOREST PLAN
OBJECTIVE
(%)
75
50
50
75
50
50
ALTERNATIVES
A
(EXISTING)
84
72
77
83
52
60
B
85
71
77
88
52
59
C
87
71
80
88
52
59
D1
87/92
72/81
80
88
51/52
58/61
E
92
80
80
89
55
63
As vegetative treatments are implemented in the project area, human-elk interactions are likely
to increase. As mitigation, existing access restrictions will be maintained on Forest roads in the
planning area. Long-term, road densities would decrease as roads are decommissioned.
Weed treatments that reduce weed competition with or spread into elk forage areas would be
beneficial to elk. Moist sites, such as wet meadows, ponds, seeps, and springs, are important
to elk and would be protected by RHCA buffers as part of project implementation.
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS (INCLUDES FORESEEABLE FUTURE ACTIONS)
The 'no action' alternative would add cumulatively to fuel loading effects caused by past fire
exclusion and the current mountain pine beetle epidemic, but overall net effects on elk or their
habitat would be relatively minor. Allowing continued fuel buildups in the analysis area would
First figure includes required watershed improvement projects only; second figure includes required and additional
watershed improvement projects
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have little effect initially, but eventual negative impact on elk habitat conditions flack-strawed
stands, movement barriers) would be cumulative to previous reading, public vehicular travel in
the area, harvest activities, and other human-induced disturbances and activities on elk habitat
security. Other recent and foreseeable harvests on nearby private and BLM lands would also
help create additional forage resources for elk, but would not likely change overall elk habitat
effectiveness measurably.
Action alternatives would add cumulatively to fuel loading effects caused by past fire exclusion
and the current mountain pine beetle epidemic, but overall net effects on elk or their habitat
would be relatively minor. Modest reductions in fuel buildups in the project area would reduce
the potential for movement barriers (jack-strawed stands). However, in untreated areas the
potential for jack-strawed stands to create movement barriers would be cumulative to previous
reading, public vehicular travel in the area, harvest activities, and other human-induced
disturbances and activities on elk habitat security. Other recent and foreseeable harvests on
nearby private and BLM lands would also help create additional forage resources for elk, but
would also add to security weaknesses and cover losses. Overall cumulative effects would be
similar to Alternative A.
Past fires, fire suppression, and timber harvest across the analysis area have resulted in a
complex matrix of forested interior habitat, edge, ecotones, and openings in various stages of
succession. Past timber harvest converted a considerable amount of the hiding and thermal
cover into seedling stands, some of which have progressed to sapling hiding cover. Past timber
harvest also narrowed or severed forested connections. Tree harvest has removed hiding and
screening cover along open and closed roads, and human population and access have
dramatically increased over historical conditions. Numerous recreational opportunities across
the analysis area, including big game hunting, can cause displacement or mortality of elk.
This project and others in the area target dead, dying, and merchantable green lodgepole pine
and other tree species in some capacity. Cumulatively, the loss of small tree cover for elk could
affect populations in the project area and in the American and Crooked River watersheds.
Adding to this situation is the fact that many additional stands of small tree lodgepole pine and
mixed conifer that are not proposed for timber harvest or silvicultural treatments are being
altered or lost by a more "natural" process of bug kill, decay, and fire. Projects that do not
consider the distribution of the mountain pine beetle-caused openings relative to project
activities could result in greatly reduced elk cover across the landscape. At the project and
watershed levels, elk populations could be impacted by the cumulative effects of past, present,
and reasonably foreseeable future actions. Because American and Crooked River elk
populations may migrate to other areas of the Forest, these effects could be noticeable at the
Forest level as well. However, across the range of the species, the effects of past, present, and
reasonably foreseeable future actions in and around the American and Crooked River
watersheds appear negligible.
SHIRA'S MOOSE
EXISTING CONDITION
Shira's moose are widely distributed throughout Idaho and are relatively common in the South
Fork Clearwater Subbasin, including the Nez Perce National Forest. Moose populations have
greatly expanded across Idaho since the 1960s, and most populations are currently stable or
increasing (USDA FS, 1998b).
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The recognized critical habitat for moose of the South Fork Subbasin is mature and old growth
grand fir and subalpine fir stands that exhibit an understory of Pacific yew. This winter moose
habitat (Forest Plan Management Area 21), is important to moose for both cover and forage
during the winter season. ). Moose habitat in Crooked River and American ERUs is now 325
percent and 306 percent of historic levels in Crooked and American River ERUs respectively
(USDA FS 1998b). This can be attributable to increases in more shade tolerant tree species,
like subalpine fir and grand fir, due to fire suppression and forest succession (USDA FS, 1998a,
pg. 83). American River ERU contains disproportionately more high quality moose winter
habitat (approximately 21,391 acres) compared to the 6,455 acres of this habitat in Crooked
River ERU (USDA FS, 1998b).
Maintaining high quality moose habitat in quantities that are well beyond the historic levels
would make little sense, especially for a species which is increasing and is a relative habitat
generalist (USDA FS, 1998b). In addition, attempting to maintain such conditions would likely
be unsustainable over the longer term, given increasing fuel loadings and the known fire
disturbance patterns in the analysis area. Fire hazard will increase as more stands in the area
transition from low or moderate hazard to high. Neither American nor Crooked River drainages
are viewed as high priority areas to manage for moose conservation. Nevertheless, the Nez
Perce Forest Plan limits timber harvests in MA21 to a maximum of 5 percent per decade based
on a 210 year rotation (USDA FS 1987a, page III-59).
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
Noxious weeds, road decommissioning, watershed restoration actions, and post-harvest slash
treatments using fire are not expected to impact moose or their habitats considerably regardless
of alternative.
Most MA21 habitat in the American River drainage occurs several miles west of all planned
harvest units. No MA21 habitat in the American River drainage is planned for harvest by any
alternative. MA21 habitats in the Crooked River drainage occur mostly in the northwest
quadrant and away from most harvest units, however 32 acres of MA21 in the Crooked
drainage will be affected by harvest activity in all action alternatives. Based on this information,
the analysis criteria for moose will be acres of MA 21 harvested.
ALTERNATIVE A - NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
Overall, the existing condition would not change under this alternative. The 'no action'
alternative would not harvest in MA21 designated areas and would have no direct impact on
important moose winter habitats. The road decommissioning associated with this project would
not take place. The 'no action' alternative would have uncertain indirect effects of encouraging
continued fuel loading throughout the areas, which may indirectly increase future fire-loss risks
of some stands of moose winter habitat. Continued fire suppression activities would result in a
decline in younger stands and openings used by moose during summer. Conifer-shrub and
mountain shrub cover types would decline in amount and distribution, as would the size of open
patches as ingrowth fills and matures in old openings. Mature and old growth forests with a
Pacific yew understory would remain intact barring a wildfire. Considering current moose
habitat prevalence and moose populations in the analysis area, this would not likely be
considered a major negative impact.
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ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, and E
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
Direct effects would include harvest of approximately 32 acres of MA21 designated areas in the
Crooked River drainage. None would be harvested within the American River drainage. Loss
or modification of such small amounts of moose habitat would be minor. Indirect effect on future
fire hazard reduction would also be negligible.
Alternatives B and C would modestly improve habitat security compared to Alternative A by
reducing motorized access particularly in the American River portion of the analysis area, but
the Crooked River portion would remain the same as Alternative A. Alternatives D and E would
improve habitat security to the highest level and positive effects would accrue to both the
American and Crooked River portions of the analysis area compared to Alternatives A, B, and
\-/.
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS (INCLUDES FORESEEABLE FUTURE ACTIONS)
The 'no action1 alternative would have no major cumulative effects on moose or their important
winter habitats. This action, in concert with past and present fire exclusion, along with other
habitat intrusions such as reading, harvesting, public recreation activities and other impacts on
the land would further modify habitat outside its historic norm, but would not be likely to affect
moose considerably.
Planned harvest (32 acres in the Crooked River drainage), fuel treatments, and other related
activities in addition to past, present and reasonably foreseeable future activities including
additional harvests on BLM lands and the proposed Tract 39 exchange (35 acres in American
River drainage), would amount cumulatively to less than 1/4 of 1 percent of the MA21
designated areas, well below maximum Forest Plan 5 percent standards. This amount of
impact would not sufficiently break up or reduce fuels to any extent likely to have measurable
effects on moose or protection of MA21 designated habitats from wildfire risks.
Past timber harvest has resulted in the loss of medium and large trees as well as some grand
fir/Pacific yew moose winter range. Active fire suppression since the early 1900s has allowed
succession to continue, and this has resulted in an increase in the amount of moose winter
range available in the area in recent time. The long-term effect of fire suppression could
increase the likelihood of stand-replacing fire, which in turn could result in the loss of Pacific
yew, a fire-intolerant species.
Road construction has resulted in increased access into the project area and reduced security
for moose. Human disturbance, as it relates to wildlife security and human-induced mortality, is
the past, present, and reasonably foreseeable action with the greatest effect on moose in the
planning area. All action alternatives would decommission roads and maintain current access
restrictions. The timing of road construction and reconstruction, timber harvest, and burning
could .delay the effectiveness of road reconditioning.
Other projects proposed for the American and Crooked River watersheds and surrounding
areas could remove additional stands of biological moose winter range and MA 21 designated
habitat, and/or modify moose habitat. These projects, in combination with ongoing recreational
activities such as firewood cutting, private land timber harvest, grazing, and recreational mining,
could disturb moose and increase human-moose interactions. At the project and watershed
level, removal of important moose winter range could affect individuals and populations.
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Modifications to moose summer habitat would be less impactive to individuals and populations,
as summer habitat is not limiting in the project area and because present and future actions
would tend to modify rather than remove summer habitat. At the Forest level and across the
range of the species, past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future actions would have
negligible effects.
PILEATED WOODPECKER
EXISTING CONDITION
The pileated woodpecker is widely distributed in western North America, and is a fairly common
resident of northern Idaho's coniferous forests. Pileateds are most commonly found in mature
to overmature forests that have numerous, large dead or dying trees. It is considered an old-
growth indicator species, and nests in large diameter snags. Preferred foraging habitat is
characterized by dense canopies, with high snag and log densities. Grand fir forests with at
least two canopy layers and greater than 75 percent canopy closure are preferred for nesting
(Bull et a/., 1986 p. 5). Forests above 5,000 feet in elevation are generally avoided. Lodgepole
pine and spruce-fir forests in particular receive little use, most likely due to the scarcity of large
diameter trees (USDA FS, 1998b).
Territories of nesting pairs cover 500-1,000 acres in Montana; 1,000-1,300 acres in western
Oregon; and 320-600 acres in northeastern Oregon (Aney and McClelland, 1985). Not every
stand within a bird's home range is used as feeding habitat and the range of a nesting pair is
partly determined by the amount of suitable feeding habitat in proximity to the nest site.
Information in the South Fork Clearwater Landscape Assessment, indicates that pileated
woodpecker habitat is now more abundant than historically. Comparison of the extent of current
(1997) versus historic pileated woodpecker habitat acres in the American and Crooked River
ERUs revealed that such habitat is 275 percent and 289 percent of historic in these respective
drainages (USDA FS, 1998b).
The American River ERU contains approximately 18,964 acres of high quality habitat for
pileated woodpeckers and the Crooked River ERU contains about 12,997 acres (USDA FS,
1998B - Wildlife Technical Report - Pileated woodpecker, 19981). This can be attributable to
increases in more shade tolerant tree species, like grand fir, due to fire suppression and forest
succession (USDA FS, 1998a, pg. 83).
Based data from population monitoring across the Nez Perce National Forest, pileated
woodpecker populations remain healthy and stable (USDA FS, 2004c)
For this analysis pileated woodpecker nesting habitat was defined as vegetation other than
lodgepole pine and subalpine fir, with large trees (greater than 15 inches dbh) and closed
canopies (greater than 60 percent). Foraging habitat consists of nesting habitat, plus medium-
sized trees (greater than 10 inches dbh) or larger with canopy cover greater than 25 percent.
The following table (Table 3.158) shows the acres of each habitat for the two watersheds (and
percentage of habitat within the two watersheds).
TABLE 3.158 - ESTIMATED ACRES OF PILEATED WOODPECKER NESTING HABITAT
Watershed
American River
Crooked River
NESTING HABITAT ACRES
(VoWTRSD)
13,398(23%)
6,213(14%)
FORAGING HABITAT ACRES
(% WTRSD)
27,593 (47%)
14,005(31%)
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There are many acres of potential foraging habitat in the project area, and pileated
woodpeckers will increase their home range in order to find suitable foraging sites. The
distribution of foraging habitat in relation to nesting habitat likely dictates its use by pileated
woodpeckers more than it just being present on the landscape. Both nesting and foraging
habitat are well distributed throughout the project area.
By assuming an average home range size of 1,000 acres per nesting pair, an index was
developed to compare the effects of each alternative. Under the existing condition, 27,500
acres of habitat could support about 27 pileated woodpecker pairs in the American River area
and 14,000 acres could support about 14 pileated woodpecker pairs in Crooked River area.
[Note: Because pileated woodpeckers can forage in the same stands as they nest, acres of
nesting habitat is included in the acre figure.] It is important to emphasize that this number is
simply an analytical index and in no way attempts to measure actual densities or numbers of
pileated pairs on the landscape. Pileated woodpecker home ranges can vary in size and it is
not known how much home range overlap might exist within or between individual birds or pairs.
The results of the Forest-wide Inventory and Analysis indicate that, overall, pileated woodpecker
habitat is widely distributed across the Forest (this includes nesting and foraging habitat). The
total potential pileated habitat represents approximately 41 percent of the forested lands Forest-
wide, with a 90 percent confidence interval of 37-45 percent. Total pileated woodpecker habitat
(represented by foraging habitat, as nesting habitat is included in the calculations) amounts to
47 percent of the forested lands in the American River watershed and 21 percent in the Crooked
River watershed. The following table (Table 3.159) displays the FIA data at three scales:
1. Forest;
2. Subbasin (4th HUC); and
3. Watershed (5th HUC).
The amount and distribution of habitat is both a reflection of the capability and current condition
of the landscape, as well as the number of plots across the landscape.
TABLE 3.159 - FOREST INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS DATA FOR PILEATED WOODPECKER HABITATI
Species
Pileated
Nesting
Habitat
Pileated
Foraging
Habitat
Nez Perce Forest
Cl
Low
8
37
Mean
10
41
Ci
High
12
45
South Fork
Clearwater River
Cl
Low
7
42
Mean
11
50
Cl
High
16
57
American River
Watershed
Cl
Low
0
21
Mean
3
47
Cl
High
11
72
Crooked River
Watershed
Cl
Low
0
0
Mean
0
21
ci
High
0
43
Forest inventory and analysis data at three scales for percent pileated woodpecker nesting and foraging habitat
including 90 percent confidence intervals (Cl low and Cl high).
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Estimates of pileated woodpecker habitat based on R1VMP and the FIA data differ primarily due
to the differences in parameters used in defining habitat. The R1VMP model uses several
parameters, including live tree size (dbh), live tree species, and canopy closure. The FIA
habitat model used primarily a snag diameter component, which R1VMP does not have.
R1VMP also provides a spatial context not represented by the FIA data.
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
No existing old growth stands will be harvested under any alternative. An abundance of dead
and dying lodgepole pine is present throughout the analysis area as foraging habitat and this
will not change substantially, regardless of any action alternative. Therefore, the analysis
criteria for pileated woodpecker is the degree to which each alternative maintains and protects
mature mixed conifer stands preferred for future nesting habitat. The removal of dead, dying,
and green trees would remove foraging and nesting sites and would constitute habitat losses.
The net effects of harvest on pileated woodpeckers would be relatively minor within the context
of each alternative because of the limited areas treated, limited numbers of dead/dying trees
taken, and diameter limits of 20 inches. Noxious weeds, road decommissioning, watershed
restoration actions, and post-harvest slash treatments using fire are not expected to impact
pileated woodpeckers or their habitats considerably regardless of alternative. An estimated 30-
40 percent of total harvest acres is expected to be in mixed conifer stands in all alternatives.
ALTERNATIVE A - NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
The 'no action' alternative would have no direct impacts to pileated woodpeckers, old growth, or
any of their habitats. Important replacement old growth stands would also be protected from
harvest. In general, nesting and foraging habitat would increase as forest succession continues
to fill in understories and increase stand canopy closure. Indirect effects of the 'no action'
alternative may slightly increase future risks of eventual fire damage or destruction to some
individual old growth or mature mixed conifer stands (refer to Section 3.4 - Fire for more details)
and thus potentially reduce nesting habitat across the two drainages.
ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, AND E
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
Regeneration harvest and thinning can impact pileated woodpeckers by removing suitable
nesting habitat, as well as snags and down wood used for foraging. The proposed project
design spreads potentially affected acres across most of the analysis area. As a result, most
resident pileated woodpeckers would be likely to experience some habitat loss at a small or site-
specific scale.
TABLE 3.160 - ESTIMATED ACRES OF PILEATED WOODPECKER NESTING HABITAT MODIFIED BY
EACH ACTION ALTERNATIVE (AMERICAN RIVER)
American River
Acres (%) nesting Habitat treated
Acres (%) foraging habitat
treated
Alt.
A
0
0
Alt. B
100
(<1%)
179
(<1%)
Alt. C
137(1%)
220
(<1%)
Ait. D
294
(2%)
439
(1%)
AitE
66(<1%)
121
(<1%)
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TABLE 3.161 - ESTIMATED ACRES OF PILEATED WOODPECKER FORAGING HABITAT MODIFIED BY
EACH ACTION ALTERNATIVE (CROOKED RIVER)
Crooked River
Acres (%) nesting Habitat treated
Acres (%) foraging habitat treated
Alt. A
0
0
Ait. B
243 (4%)
451 (3%)
Alt. C
251 (4%)
486 (3%)
Alt. D
284 (5%)
561 (4%)
Alt. E
225 (4%)
423(3%)
Changes in potential nesting habitat acres are outlined by alternative in Tables 3.160 and 3.161
above. Silvicultural treatments that encourage the development of large trees (greater than 21
inches dbh) over the planning area would benefit pileated nesting habitat. However, any
harvest activity that would reduce canopy closure below 50 percent would reduce the potential
for those stands to be used as nesting habitat.
None of the alternatives would harvest much that qualifies as nesting habitat. Alternatives B
and E would modify the fewest acres of pileated nesting habitat (less than 1 percent of the
existing habitat in American River and 4 percent in Crooked River), and alternative D would
modify the greatest acreage (about 2 percent of existing habitat in American River and 5
percent in Crooked River). No harvest activities would take place in allocated old growth areas
or RHCAs, so these stands would remain relatively intact and available for potential pileated
woodpecker nest sites. The disturbance from road work and the edge effects created by the
roads would probably not be of sufficient magnitude to change the suitability of these stands for
nesting pileated woodpeckers.
Action alternatives would directly impact patches of mature mixed conifer habitats, but would
produce no direct effects to existing old growth stands. Important replacement old growth
stands would also be protected from harvest. Low levels of mixed conifer harvest would result
in only minor negative impacts, given the relative abundance of current high quality habitat in
both drainages compared to historical norms. As a result of indirect effects from continued fuel
buildups over much of the analysis area, despite some fuel reduction, lethal/stand-replacing
fires are predicted to become more prevalent with associated risks of related habitat losses
(refer to Section 3.4 - Fire for additional details).
Changes in potential foraging habitat acres are outlined by alternative in Tables 3.160 and
3.161 above. Alternatives B, C, and E would modify the fewest acres of pileated foraging habitat
(less than 1 percent of the existing habitat in American River and 3 percent in Crooked River),
and alternative D would modify the greatest acreage (about 1 percent of the existing habitat in
American River and 4 percent in Crooked River). Using our analytical index, under alternatives
B, C, D, and E, enough pileated woodpecker habitat would remain in the project area to support
about 27 pileated pairs in American River and 13-14 pairs in Crooked River.
Harvesting dead/dying and merchantable green trees would create openings across the project
area. Where harvest resulted in regenerative cuts, shelterwood cuts, or clearcuts with
residuals, foraging and nesting habitat would be lost for pileated woodpeckers. Leaving snags
and green tree replacements would leave structures that could be utilized by pileated
woodpeckers.
In mixed conifer or other vegetation types where lodgepole pine is a component of the stand,
thinning prescriptions that leave greater than 40 percent canopy closure and do not take snags
and down wood from other species, would leave foraging opportunities for pileated
woodpeckers. Thinned stands could maintain or create more favorable conditions over time for
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pileated woodpeckers as these stands develop structural diversity. Silvicultural prescriptions
that retain many or all of the larger (greater than 20 inches), wind-firm trees in ponderosa pine,
Douglas-fir, and mixed conifer stands, would maintain and improve these stands as potential
pileated foraging and nesting habitat.
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS (INCLUDES FORESEEABLE FUTURE ACTIONS)
The 'no action' alternative would allow stands to transition to higher fire hazard conditions which
would be cumulative to effects from past fire exclusion, reading effects, loss of large diameter
trees, and other human-caused impacts on habitat quality. Harvests planned for nearby BLM
lands would add cumulatively to habitat losses and prior impacts. This alternative would
indirectly result in slightly greater cumulative risks of fire damage or losses to some individual
stands of existing old growth and/or mature mixed conifer stands.
Timber harvest and road construction have reduced the amount and continuity of mature and
old growth habitat across the project area. In addition, past actions frequently targeted medium
and large trees and valuable ponderosa pine and western larch snags. These actions have left
fewer appropriate stands, and trees within stands, that could be used by pileated woodpeckers.
Past harvest left few snags or legacy trees, and little down wood. As these older harvest units
have begun to mature, they are devoid of the structures that could be utilized by pileated
woodpeckers. At the same time, active fire suppression since the early 1900s has allowed
succession to continue in those stands that have not been harvested. Relatively simple one-
and two-story stands have transitioned to more complex multi-story stands with increased
canopy closure and individual trees have grown larger. Some of these stands may now qualify
as suitable pileated habitat. Increased fuel loads from fire suppression and the current
mountain pine beetle epidemic increases the chance of stand-replacing fires that could remove
several acres of older forest habitats from the landscape. Fires would create additional snags,
but it would take many years before a new forest would mature to levels where burnt stands
could be used by pileated woodpeckers. Other projects in or near the project area may also
alter the amount, distribution, and connectivity of older, dense-canopied stands.
The proposed project and other projects proposed in the area could open or remove significant
acres of canopy. When new units abut old harvest units and stands undergoing beetle kill, the
number and/or size of the openings could be too large to be used by pileated woodpeckers. If
foraging habitat, which requires canopy closure, becomes too sparse within a pileated territory,
that bird or pair may expend too much energy foraging to maintain their territory or to rear
young. The mountain pine beetle epidemic is creating many, large openings across the
landscape. Projects that do not consider the distribution of the mountain pine beetle-caused
openings relative to project activities could result in greatly reduced pileated habitat across the
landscape.
Although individual birds or pairs could be disturbed by project activities, none of the proposed
alternatives should affect populations at the local or watershed level. Management practices
proposed in the American and Crooked River project are considered to be consistent with
strategies identified as part of the South Fork Clearwater River Landscape Assessment (USDA
FS 1998a) in terms of maintaining high canopy closure, old growth forest for nesting, and
maintaining roost trees and foraging habitat. At the Forest level, and across the range of the
species, the effects of past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future actions appear small to
negligible.
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PINE MARTEN
EXISTING CONDITION
Pine marten (American marten) are widely distributed in the western United States, inhabiting
montane coniferous forests. In various sites in the northern Rocky Mountains, marten's
preferences for major vegetation types include mesic subalpine fir, Douglas fir, and lodgepole
pine, but xeric subalpine fir and lodgepole associations are also used. They are generally
considered a high elevation old growth associated species with somewhat overlapping habitat
requirements to those of the fisher. They prefer high elevation, mature or older mesic forests
and consistently prefer sites with complex physical structure near the ground (Buskirk and
Ruggiero 1994, p. 22). Complex physical structure near the ground provides important
protection from predators as well as important protective thermal microenvironments used
during the winter. Like fishers, pine marten are known to prefer riparian and streamside timber
stands for resting and foraging (Buskirk and Ruggiero 1994, p. 22). In some locations in the
northern Rocky mountains, martens have preferred stands characterized by xeric subalpine fir
and lodgepole pine.
Logging is commonly regarded as the primary cause of observed pine marten distributional
losses in historic times in the western United States. Martens generally avoid habitats that lack
overhead cover, such as clearcuts, herbaceous parklands, and meadows. In some portions of
its range such as the Pacific Northwest, clearcutting of old growth and overmature stands and
habitat fragmentation has seriously affected distribution of marten. In the Rocky Mountains and
Sierra Nevadas, the marten generally has a geographic range similar to that of presettlement
times, though population levels are not known reliably enough to compare current levels with
those at any earlier time (Buskirk and Ruggiero 1994, p. 29). Clearcutting of mature and
overmature timber is generally considered deleterious to marten populations. In areas where
clearcutting is extreme, the habitat quality for martens decreases, resulting in increased home
range sizes. A recent study from southwest Montana (Coffin, K. et a/., 2002, p. 31) concluded
that marten densities tended to be higher in study sites with less disturbance from logging and
fire, but marten were nevertheless able to occupy heavily logged and roaded areas. While fire,
insects, and disease also cause tree death in the western U.S., the effects of these
disturbances on marten have been poorly studied (Buskirk and Ruggiero 1994, p. 13).
Pine marten are known to occur within the American and Crooked River drainages. Both
sightings and tracks have been recorded. One pine marten was observed during daylight hours
while conducting harvest-associated resource surveys along Road 1810 in the American River
drainage (See project file).
Currently, the extent of available habitat for pine marten within American and Crooked
drainages respectively is 223 percent and 284 percent of historic levels (USDA FS, 1998b). A
view of the larger landscape indicates that current habitat arrangement (in the South Fork
Clearwater River drainage), allows easy connectivity for marten movement within the habitat.
The only barrier to marten travel within the South Fork Clearwater landscape is the Camas
Prairie, which does not fragment intra-subbasin marten populations (USDA FS, 1998b). This
can be attributable to increases in more shade tolerant tree species, like subalpine fir and grand
fir, due to fire suppression and forest succession (USDA FS, 1998a, p. 83). While habitat
quantity has increased, habitat quality has likely declined due to loss of larger snags and habitat
heterogeneity from fuel-wooding, fire suppression, and loss of large diameter trees due to past
timber harvest. A more thorough discussion of marten habitat needs, old growth habitats, and
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current habitat conditions is referenced in the South Fork Landscape Assessment on pages
104, 106, 107; and within the South Fork Landscape Assessment's Wildlife Technical Report in
the section on American Marten (USDA FS, 1998b).
Martens breed from late June to early August, with most mating occurring in July. Births occur
in March and April. Young martens emerge from the dens at about 50 days of age, but may be
moved earlier among dens by the mother. A variety of structures are used for dens, with trees,
logs, and rocks accounting for 70 percent of reported den structures. In virtually all studied
cases involving standing trees, logs, and snags, dens were found in large structures that are
characteristic of late-successional forests (Buskirk and Ruggiero 1994, p. 15). Late-
successional and old growth stands are therefore considered the primary den site habitats.
Prescription burning of post-logging slash during spring periods was evaluated relative to
potential effects on pine marten and other denning mammals. While there is the potential for
disturbance and/or displacement of nesting pine marten, risks are relatively low because larger
structures (large trees and snags) considered most suitable, as dens occur most commonly in
old growth habitats, which are not being impacted by any harvest treatments. Even so, harvest
units burned along edges of late-successional and old-growth stands would potentially disturb or
displace individuals. Pine marten display adaptability to low-intensity environmental
disturbances and have been documented to move offspring to different dens by the mother
(Buskirk and Ruggiero 1994, p. 18). The most common means by which humans directly affect
marten populations is through trapping, although highway accidents also cause some direct
mortalities.
Since Forest Plan inception (USDA FS, 1987a), pine marten population monitoring track counts
and incidental sightings indicate that marten population trends across the Nez Perce Forest
remain stable (USDA FS 2004, NPNF 15th Annual Monitoring and Evaluation Report Draft -2002
Pine marten/fisher monitoring data - Item 10 Population Trends of Indicator Species).
For this analysis, marten habitat consist of mixed conifer, subalpine fir, and lodgepole pine
habitats with large trees (greater than 15 inches dbh; lodgepole pine dbh greater than or equal
to 10 inches) and canopy cover greater than 25 percent. The following table (Table 3.162
shows the acres of each habitat for the two watersheds (and percentage of habitat within the
two watersheds).
TABLE 3.162 - ESTIMATED ACRES OF PINE MARTEN HABITAT
Watershed
American River
Crooked River
Habitat Acres (% wtrsd)
38,497 (66%)
22,147 (49%)
By assuming an average home range size of 3,500 acres per female marten (Bull and Heater
2001), an analytical index was developed by which to compare the effects of each alternative.
Under the existing condition, 38,500 acres of habitat could support about 11 marten females in
American River and 22,000 acres could support about 6 marten females in Crooked River. It is
important to realize that these numbers are simply an analytical index and in no way attempt to
measure actual densities or numbers of pine marten on the landscape. Marten home range
sizes are not known in the project area and home range sizes can vary between individuals and
across landscapes.
The results of the Forest-wide Forest Inventory and Analysis indicate that, overall, marten
habitat is widely distributed across the Forest. The total potential marten habitat represents
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approximately 19 percent of the forested lands Forest-wide with a 90 percent confidence
interval of 17 percent to 22 percent. Within the American River watershed, total marten habitat
amounts to 31 percent of the forested lands and 7 percent in the Crooked River watershed. The
following table (Table 3.163) displays the FIA data at three scales:
1. Forest;
2. Subbasin (4th HUC); and
3. Watershed (5th HUC).
The amount and distribution of habitat is both a reflection of the capability and current condition
of the landscape, as well as the number of plots across the landscape.
TABLE 3.163 - FOREST INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS DATA FOR MARTIN HABITAT 1
Species
Habitat
Nez Perce Forest
CI
Low
17
Mean
19
CI
High
22
South Fork
Clearwater River
Ci
Low
19
Mean
25
CI
Hiqh
32
American River
Watershed
CI
Low
15
Mean
31
Ct
Hiqh
50
Crooked River
Watershed
CI
Low
0
Mean
7
CI
High
23
Estimates of marten habitat based on R1VMP and the FIA data differ primarily due to the
divisions for size class and canopy cover categories being slightly different between the two
datasets. R1VMP also provides a spatial context not represented by the FIA data.
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
Based on available information, the analysis criteria for pine marten is the extent to which each
alternative promotes and/or conserves late serai habitats and maintains or reduces densities of
roads and the associated potential for mortality due to trapping. In all alternatives, all existing
old growth is protected and together with strategically selected replacement old growth stands
and protection of riparian zones, old growth patch size and connectivity are maintained. The
removal of dead, dying, and green trees would remove foraging and nesting sites and would
constitute habitat losses because of the marten's preference for live trees and more dense
canopies. Noxious weeds, watershed restoration actions, and post-harvest slash treatments
using fire are not expected to impact pine marten or their habitats considerably, regardless of
alternative. Road decommissioning would help reduce facilitation of trapper access within the
analysis area.
ALTERNATIVE A - NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
The 'no action1 alternative would have no direct negative impact on marten or their late serai
habitats. No potential den and rest trees would be lost during temporary road construction or
logging, and the overall existing condition would remain unchanged at least short-term. As
succession and fire suppression continue in the project area, mosaic patterns currently on the
landscape would decline; openings would fill in and canopies would close further. As the
Forest inventory and analysis data at three scales for percent marten habitat, including 90% confidence intervals (CI
low and CI high).
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mountain pine beetle epidemic continues, dead trees would fall to the ground increasing
structural diversity at the ground level, which in turn would create suitable niches and habitats
for marten prey. The increase in down and standing fuels would increase the likelihood of a
stand-replacing fire. Wildfire could result in the loss of mature and old growth stands that
provide potential resting, denning, and foraging habitat for marten. Existing road access levels
that facilitate potential trapping would remain unchanged.
ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, AND E
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
As displayed in Table 3.164, Alternative D would harvest or modify the greatest number of acres
of pine marten habitat, resulting in moderate levels of direct and indirect fragmentation of
marten habitats. Alternative E would affect the smallest amount of marten habitat. Using our
analytical index, under Alternatives B, C, D, and E, enough pine marten habitat would remain in
the project area to support about 11 female martens in American River and 6 female marten in
Crooked River. Basically, no change from the existing condition.
TABLE 3.164 - ESTIMATED ACRES OF PINE MARTEN HABITAT MODIFIED BY EACH ACTION
ALTERNATIVE
American River
Acres (%) Habitat treated
Crooked River
Acres (%) Habitat treated
Alt. A
0
Alt. A
0
Alt. B
425(1%)
Alt. B
859 (4%)
Alt. C
480(1%)
Alt. C
948 (4%)
Alt. D
781 (2%)
Alt. D
1,107(5%)
Alt. E
246 (<1%)
Ait. E
772 (3%)
Treatments that include regenerative harvests, shelterwood cuts, and clearcuts with reserve
trees would result in a loss of marten habitat. Habitat connectivity would not be expected to be
impacted by any of the action alternatives. The diversity of sizes, canopies, and landscape
patterns would reduce the risk of stand replacing fires locally.
Riparian corridors would be buffered and no trees would be harvested in these areas except
individual trees removed during temporary road construction, road reconstruction, and/or the
creation of cable corridors. RHCAs would still function as potential summer habitat and travel
corridors. As succession continues, down wood, snags, and gaps would be expected to
develop further creating the structural requirements marten prefer. Similarly, no harvest would
occur in areas allocated as Forest Plan old growth or replacement old growth, so these areas
would continue to provide potential habitat for marten.
The temporary increase in human activity associated with project implementation could disturb
individual martens or increase human-marten interactions. As mitigation, all existing access
closures would remain in place.
All action alternatives would produce no direct effects to existing old growth stands. As a result
of indirect effects from continued fuel buildups over much of the analysis area and despite some
fuel reduction, lethal, stand-replacing fires are predicted to become more prevalent with
associated risks of related habitat losses (refer to Section 3.4. - Fire for additional details).
Action alternatives would slightly improve security through road decommissioning. Alternatives
B and C would modestly improve habitat security compared to Alternative A by reducing
motorized access, particularly in the American River portion of the analysis area; but the
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Crooked River portion would remain the same as Alternative A. Alternatives D and E would
improve habitat security to the highest level and positive effects would accrue to both the
American and Crooked River portions of the analysis area compared to Alternatives A B and
C.
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS (INCLUDES FORESEEABLE FUTURE ACTIONS)
The 'no action' alternative would encourage continued fuel continuity and loading, which, in
combination with effects of past harvest, reading, fire exclusion actions, and other human-
caused impacts, would add modestly to overall future habitat risks of habitat fragmentation by
wildfire. If wildfires occur, larger, post-fire openings due to fuel continuity and loading, which, in
combination with effects of past harvest, reading, fire exclusion actions, and other human-
caused impacts, would add modestly to overall future habitat risks of habitat fragmentation by
wildfire. If wildfires occur, larger, post-fire openings due to fuel continuity would increase habitat
fragmentation in places, indirectly discouraging pine marten immigration and recolonization of
the area, and would modestly increase marten home range sizes until regrowth of suitable
habitats were reestablished. Refer to Section 3.4. - Fire for additional details. No measurable
cumulative positive or negative effects on facilitation of trapper access would occur.
Of the past and current activities that affect marten and their habitat, fire suppression and timber
harvest have and will continue to alter the amount and distribution of potential habitat. With fire
suppression, stands have increased in canopy closure and understory trees have grown into the
mid-canopy and beyond. Stands are more homogeneous and contain an abundance of small-
sized trees (9-14 inches dbh). Trees that have succumbed to over-crowding or shade-
intolerance have died and possibly fallen to the ground, creating structural diversity in these
stands. Timber harvest has added diversity to this homogenous landscape, although with
relatively uniform treatment types (clearcuts) and small (<40 acres in size), simple-shaped
openings. Large and medium trees were targeted by past timber activities, and few snags,
legacy trees, and residual down wood were left behind. Vertical, horizontal, and ground level
diversity was simplified in past harvest areas. These actions left a landscape that does not
have the characteristic pattern of one under a more natural disturbance regime.
Added to these effects are past, present, and future pine marten trapping which can modestly or
dramatically affect local populations depending on the magnitude of harvest. Currently, the
project area is open to marten trapping and the trapping of other furbearers. Marten can be
caught in traps meant for other species. Roads have increased human access into the area
and have created openings and edges inside stands of mature forest. Roads have also
increased human-marten interactions and human-induced mortality, primarily from trapping.
The current mountain pine beetle epidemic is reducing canopy closure across much of the
project area, particularly in stands that are predominately lodgepole pine. Many of these stands
losing a majority of their canopy and no longer provide the overstory cover with which marten
are associated. The dead and dying trees in these stands will soon start to fall, creating an
abundance of woody debris, that may provide suitable habitat for marten and their prey should
there be enough cover to afford protection. Proposed treatments in these stands could move
them toward a forested condition faster than under succession; left untreated the level of down
wood and snags might prevent seed establishment and/or block needed light for seedling
development.
Action alternatives would partially discourage continued fuel continuity and loading, which, in
combination with effects of past harvest, reading, fire exclusion actions, and other human-
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caused impacts would add modestly to overall future habitat risks of habitat fragmentation by
wildfire. Larger, post-fire openings would cumulatively increase habitat fragmentation in places,
indirectly discouraging immigration and recolonization of the area, and would modestly increase
marten home range sizes until regrowth of suitable habitats were reestablished. Refer to
Section 3.4. - Fire for additional details. Combined harvest impacts and impending fire risks to
their habitats from current and fuel loadings on the uncharacteristically abundant levels of
habitat would be not substantial regardless of alternatives.
Alternative C cumulative effects would be slightly greater than, but similar to those of Alternative
B. Combined harvest impacts and impending fire risks to their habitats from current and fuel
loadings on the uncharacteristically abundant levels of habitat would be substantial regardless
of alternatives. Alternative C would not contribute to long-term cumulative reductions in habitat
security, because motorized access would be reduced slightly in the American River drainage.
In addition to the proposed project, other projects within and adjacent to the American and
Crooked River watersheds, may harvest or otherwise modify pine marten habitat. At the project
and watershed level, individual pine marten may be affected, but the effect on marten
populations is expected to be small. At the Forest level and at the range of the species, the
cumulative effects of the proposed project on pine marten appear negligible.
3.11.4. INDICATOR4-OTHERSPECIES
NEOTROPICAL MIGRANT BIRDS
Pursuant to the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) of 1918 and Executive Order 13186 (E.G.)
titled "Responsibilities of Federal Agencies to Protect Migratory Birds", the environmental
analysis of Federal actions are to evaluate the effects of actions and agency plans on migratory
birds, with emphasis on species of concern.
Additional direction comes from the Memorandum of Understanding (MOD) between the USDA
Forest Service and USDI Fish and Wildlife Service, signed January 17, 2001 (USDA FS, 2001).
The purpose of this MOU is "to strengthen migratory bird conservation through enhanced
collaboration between the Forest Service and Fish and Wildlife Service, in coordination with
state, tribal, and local governments."
Neotropical migratory birds use all the habitats within the project area during the breeding
season. In their Idaho Bird Conservation Plan, Idaho Partners in Flight (2000) identified several
high priority species that use lodgepole pine habitats. Idaho Partners in Flight did not identify
any high priority species that use lodgepole pine forests as their primary breeding habitat, but
this is likely an artifact of the data collected. Those species that are thought or known to occur
in the project area and are identified as high priority species by Idaho Partners in Flight are
listed in Table 3.165 by primary breeding habitat.
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TABLE 3.165 - IDAHO PARTNERS IN FLIGHT HIGH PRIORITY SPECIES THOUGHT TO OCCUR IN THE
PROJECT AREA
Habitat Type
High-elevation Mixed Conifer
Lodgepole Pine
Low-elevation Mixed Conifer
Ponderosa Pine
Mountain Brush
Grassland
Non-Riverine Wetlands
(Marshes, Lakes, Ponds)
Riparian
Species
Three-toed woodpecker (moderate conservation priority), olive-
sided flycatcher, Hammond's flycatcher
Ruffed grouse, black-backed woodpecker, varied thrush
Sharp-shinned hawk, northern goshawk, black-backed
woodpecker, brown creeper, varied thrush, Townsend's warbler,
western tanager
Flammulated owl, white-headed woodpecker
Lazuli bunting (moderate conservation priority)
Western meadowlark
Cinnamon teal, redhead, sandhill crane, killdeer, American avocet
Rufous hummingbird, willow flycatcher, black-billed magpie,
American dipper, yellow warbler, MacGillivray's warbler
Neotropical migrant songbirds utilize coniferous forest habitats of the U.S. during the summer
breeding season, but migrate to southern latitudes to spend winters as far south as Mexico and
South America. Tropical deforestation and other environmental effects related to wintering
grounds are thought to be largely responsible for declines in some Neotropical migrant species
that summer in forests of the Eastern U.S.
Fragmentation of nesting habitat is also theorized to increase rates of migrant bird nest
predation and brood parasitism by other species. Small, isolated forest patches, particularly in
forests of the eastern U.S. are considered at greatest risk. In contrast, natural fire regimes and
topographic diversity in the western U.S. combined in the past to produce a temporally dynamic,
naturally fragmented landscape compared with the previously extensive and relatively
homogenous eastern deciduous forests. Timber harvest and fire suppression activity have
nevertheless altered the natural landscape of western forests (Dobkin 1994, p. 5).
Despite these changes, Neotropical migrant bird populations in the western U.S. are recognized
as faring better than eastern North American populations. A comprehensive review of Breeding
Bird Survey data from 1966-85 found that Western Neotropical migrants as a group were not
declining overall. However, the review found evidence of widespread declines among 19
songbird species of native grassland and shrub steppe habitats (Dobkin 1994, pp. 4-5). None of
these habitats are represented within the American and Crooked River Project analysis area.
A three-year study by the USDA Forest Service's Northern Region Landbird Monitoring Program
(Hutto and Young 1999, p. 69), concluded that some landbird species are relatively restricted in
their habitat distribution to only one or two naturally occurring cover types that are themselves
restricted in spatial content, or at least less extensive than they were historically. Of the
potential cover types in the American and Crooked Project area, providing adequate amounts
of:
1. Post fire standing dead forests;
2. Relative uncut older forest; and
3. Riparian environments
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were considered important to maintaining songbird population diversity and viability in the long
term. Within the American and Crooked River project area, riparian areas (RHCAs) would
receive protection from harvest through the application of PACFISH standards designed for fish
habitat protection (PACFISH). An abundance of uncut standing forest acreage will be retained
after the project (regardless of alternative), as potential future post-fire standing dead forest.
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
Noxious weeds, road decommissioning, watershed restoration actions, and post-harvest slash
treatments using fire are not expected to impact Neotropical migratory birds or their habitats
considerably, regardless of alternative. The removal of dead, dying, and green trees would
remove foraging and nesting sites and would constitute habitat losses. The net effects of
harvest on migratory birds would be relatively minor within the context of each alternative and
landscape acres under beetle attack.
ALTERNATIVE A- NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
Overall, this alternative would leave bird habitats across the project area to continue with
relatively natural processes. Areas with heavy tree mortality and blowdown would provide
structural diversity, downfall trees, and a few long-standing snags. As beetle-killed trees fall to
the ground, downed logs and shading from snags could delay regeneration in those stands with
particularly heavy mortality. The probability of stand-replacing wildfire would increase,
particularly in areas with heavy fuel loads and in adjacent stands. Mature mixed conifer,
subalpine fir, and grand fir forests could potentially be lost in fire event, as could areas allocated
as Forest Plan old growth. Live vegetation that provides cover, foraging, and nesting habitat
could be reduced across the project area. Post-fire, there would be an initial shift in species
composition to invader species and those adapted to early successional communities. Within
time, there would be a gradual return of those species adapted to mid-serai, mature, and late
successional forests.
Watershed improvement projects would not be implemented under this alternative. Riparian
forest and shrub environments are important for a variety of bird species, and the current lack of
large woody debris and streamside shade/shrub could be diminishing the habitat quality of
these areas for birds. As succession continues, large woody debris would be expected to fall
into streams and riparian areas and stream shading should increase.
ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, AND E
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
All action alternatives would alter migratory bird habitat through the direct removal of nesting
and/or foraging habitat (trees) by various levels of timber harvest. Timber harvest would create
openings and edges that could be used by a variety of bird species. Prescribed fire, natural
regeneration and/or seed planting, and other silvicultural prescriptions could accelerate
regeneration of canopy cover in harvest units. By leaving large, wind-firm live trees and snags,
and pockets of down wood, feeding and nesting habitats for songbirds could be maintained. By
reducing fuel loads and creating openings across the landscape, the risk of stand-replacing fire
would diminish locally.
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Of the harvest treatments in the American-Crooked River Project, approximately one-third to
one-half will be considered relatively intense regeneration harvests. The remaining harvests will
be variations of partial-cut or thinning aimed at removing lodgepole and other components but
favoring retention and perpetuation of fire-adapted ponderosa pine and larch elements. Each
harvest type will change habitat resulting in habitat reductions or habitat enhancements,
depending on the bird species considered. Some Neotropical migrants will be harmed to some
measure, while others will benefit. Harvested units that remove virtually all canopy and tree
boles typically leave no residual nesting habitat for most species, but often create openings and
herbaceous ground cover used by aerial insect foraging species. Impacts of partial cut
harvesting on Neotropical migratory birds in conifer forests of the Northern Rockies in one study
(Young and Hutto, 2002), found that 5 bird species (brown creeper, winter wren, golden-
crowned kinglet, varied thrush, and Townsend's warbler), were more abundant in uncut forest
stands in at least one year, and 15 species were more abundant in partially cut stands. Many of
the bird species that were more abundant in the partial-cut stands, such as the hairy
woodpecker, mountain chickadee, yellow-rumped warbler, and western tanager, are open-forest
species that might be expected to be more common in thinned conifer forests than anywhere
else. In the body of the referenced study, concern was expressed that brown-headed cowbirds
are much more likely to occur in partially cut than in uncut forests and the presence of this nest
parasite may create unsuitable environments for other nesting birds.
Few studies have examined habitat and landscape factors affecting the distribution of Brown-
headed cowbirds, a nest-parasitic native bird. Using data from a region-wide monitoring
program conducted across the USDA Forest Service's Northern Region (including the Nez
Perce National Forest), Young and Hutto (1999) concluded that the presence of clearcuts does
not draw cowbirds into forested regions. The density of potential host species (cattle or other
livestock) was one of the most important local-scale correlates of cowbird presence. In this
study, cowbirds were so strongly associated with proximity of agricultural areas that the authors
concluded that many areas of the forested mountains are probably still safe from parasitism
pressure.
Watershed improvement projects that improve overall water quality would benefit many
Neotropical and other migratory birds. No timber harvest or salvage is planned in RHCAs, so
these habitats would remain available to birds. Similarly, seeps, springs, and wet areas would
be buffered with no timber harvest, leaving these areas intact for songbirds.
Timber removal would result in the potential loss of nesting and foraging habitat currently being
used by a variety of Neotropical and other migratory bird species. Given the status of the
mountain pine beetle epidemic in the project area, many nesting and foraging opportunities
would continue to exist. Individual birds or local populations could be impacted by timber cutting
should harvest occur during the breeding season. Indirect effects would be the temporary
displacement of individuals or potential losses of nests and/or young of some birds in those
areas where concentrated mechanical and/or human activities are occurring in order to
implement the prescribed treatment and for road construction or decommissioning. This
displacement is expected to last as long as the disturbance, after which affected individuals
would resume use of the area(s) affected. These effects would not be of sufficient magnitude to
risk loss of any individual bird species in the local landscape because harvested acres would be
only a very small percentage of the forested area within the analysis area.
Snag retention would meet or exceed Forest Plan guidelines, and allocated old growth and
replacement old growth.would not be entered.
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Any existing old growth or species that nests in old growth would not experience direct impacts
from harvest as presented in the action alternatives. Indirect reductions in fuels and
intermediate aged stands at a moderate levels would occur. Unharvested stands with lodgepole
pine that is in the process of dying would be relatively poor nesting habitat for some Neotropical
migrant birds, because of declining live canopy cover. A review of ground and shrub-level
nesting birds from the USDA Forest Service's Northern Region Songbird Monitoring Program
(Hutto, 1995), was conducted. Prescription fire applied to reduce post-harvest slash, if applied
during the spring nesting period, would potentially impact nests of only 2 species (MacGillivray's
warbler and Dark-eyed junco) of the 35 or so bird species documented to inhabit the lodgepole
pine and mixed-conifer cover types in the project area. Both species inhabit a wide variety of
forest cover types, and monitoring of spring burns on the Forest to date has not found evidence
of such losses. In the long term, thinning and harvest treatments will tend to create more
nesting habitat conditions suitable for these birds.
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS (INCLUDES FORESEEABLE FUTURE ACTIONS)
Past and present actions have impacted or altered migratory bird habitat in the project area and
surrounding watersheds. These actions include grazing, dredging, mining, firewood cutting,
timber harvest, fire suppression, road construction and maintenance, winter trail grooming,
dispersed and developed recreation, administrative facilities maintenance, and home site
construction. Fewer large and medium trees and more small-diameter trees are on the
landscape than would be expected under more natural disturbance patterns. Timber harvest
has added successional diversity across an otherwise rather homogeneous landscape that has
grown out of 60 years of fire suppression. Patch sizes are smaller and snags, down wood, and
legacy trees are fewer than in a fire-impacted landscape. All of these past and present effects
have contributed to the current species distribution and population sizes of Neotropical and
other migratory birds.
Action alternatives, in combination with past, present, and reasonably foreseeable Federal
projects would also affect bird species by potentially removing important foraging and nesting
habitat and through the creation of early successional and/or thinned areas that might benefit
certain bird species. The removal of dead, dying, and green trees would remove foraging and
nesting sites and would constitute habitat losses, but the extent of the impacts will be limited in
context of each alternative due to limited areas involved. Woodpecker popuJations and
secondary cavity-nesters in particular are likely to be affected by the removal of dead and dying
trees and fuel reduction projects. Harvests that occur during the nesting period would increase
the likelihood of direct mortality to nestlings and could disturb mating and nesting behaviors.
Action alternatives, in combination with past, present and reasonably foreseeable future actions
including fire exclusion in the overall landscape, will cumulatively add some fragmentation
effects to the forested landscape but the net impacts to bird species would be relatively minor,
given historical impacts of fire regimes, overall insect-driven disturbance, and tree death
throughout the analysis area. At the project and watershed level, the cumulative effects of the
proposed project may affect individuals or local populations of some bird species. At the Forest
level and across the range of these species, effects would be expected to be small to negligible.
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3.11.5. CUMULATIVE EFFECTS SUMMARY (ALL TERRESTRIAL SPECIES)
COMMON To ALL ALTERNATIVES
Cumulative effects analyses for wildlife species and habitats are summarized within six
generalized species habitat guilds based on predominant habitat associations or dependency
relationships, (i.e. fire/early serai dependent, late serai/old-growth associated, aquatic
dependent, security dependent, ponderosa pine dependent, and cave-dependent). Some
species may align with more than one guild. Cumulative effects take into account the American
and Crooked River project as well as past, present, and potentially foreseeable future actions
(see complete listing referenced in Section 3.0. - Introduction, Table 3.1).
• Fire/Early Serai Dependent (wolf, lynx, bald eagle, black-backed woodpecker, elk)
• Late Seral/Old-Growth Associated (goshawk, marten, fisher, pileated woodpecker,
Shira's moose, Neotropical migrant birds)
• Aquatic Dependent (boreal toad, Harlequin duck, Northern leopard frog, Coeur d' Alene
salamander)
• Security Dependent (wolverine, elk, fisher, marten, lynx)
• Ponderosa pine Dependent (flammulated owl, white-headed woodpecker)
• Cave-dependent (Townsend's big-eared bat): None of the alternatives produced
cumulative effects on this species or its habitats, because they occur at much lower
elevations outside the analysis area.
Collectively, all additive impacts would be scattered across the entire 39,000 acre project area,
which is located within a much larger landscape. Past harvesting and fire effects patterns have
impacted habitats with overall cumulative habitat fragmentation (Tables 3.2 - 3.5, Timber
Harvest and Road Construction Tables), changes in patch size and dynamics, increased
reading and related human disturbance impacts, increased edge effects, and reductions in old
growth habitat abundance as illustrated and referenced by Map # 12 of the South Fork
Clearwater River Landscape Assessment (USDA FS, 1998a). In the American River portion of
the analysis area, most of the nearly 6,000 acres of historical harvest (83 percent) was done
during the 1950s-1980s, with the remaining 17 percent being done during the 1990s-current
time. Nearly 5,000 acres of harvest activity in the Crooked River portion of the area occurred
predominantly (84 percent) in the 1960s-1980s with the remaining 16 percent occurring since
the 1990s. The effects have impacted late serai/old growth species and security dependent
species the most, however many intermediate-aged stands have since moved into late-serai or
old growth conditions as well. Some species such as early serai associates, have in fact,
benefited substantially from the harvests. Other species guilds were impacted moderately
except for cave -dependent groups, which were impacted very little if at all.
The fire history of each watershed added further to past impacts. Historical fire-related impacts
in both drainages occurred before the 1950's when most harvest impacts began. Over 13,000
acres have burned in the Crooked River watershed since 1878 with highest fire impacts
occurring in 1889 (46 percent of all acres), and 1945 (39 percent of all acres). Fire impacts in
the American River watershed added over 59,000 acres of disturbance since 1878, with highest
impact years being 1889 (36 percent of all acres), 1910 (18 percent of all acres), and 1919 (41
percent of all acres). Cumulatively, these impacts resulted in greatest negative effects for late
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serai/old growth associated and security-dependent species, with moderate or lesser effects on
ponderosa pine dependent, aquatic, and cave-dependent species. Fire/early serai-dependent
species subsequently benefited from these harvest and fire disturbances.
Cumulative effects of past incremental road development in the analysis area include variable
progressive increases in wildlife effects such as direct habitat loss, disturbance, displacement,
vehicular-induced and human-induced direct and indirect mortalities, increased habitat
fragmentation, noxious weed spread, and other similar effects. Existing and planned road
decommissioning and access restrictions have mitigated some negative effects over time. The
analysis of progressive road-density related effects on wildlife through time are displayed by elk
summer habitat analysis units here. A relative index to incremental changes in road densities
over time are provided by total miles of road in each elk analysis unit followed by summary
percentage reading changes by years:
• Marten Meadows EAU #58121; (14.3 miles) - 1975 (19 percent), 1979 (43 percent),
1980 (61 percent), 1981 (65 percent), 1991 (91 percent).
• American River EAU #58122; (17.7 miles) -1935 (7 percent), 1961 (8 percent), 1963 (14
percent), 1970 (23 percent), 1975 (28 percent), 1980 (79 percent), 1981 (84 percent).
• Queen Creek EAU #58131; (22.7 miles) - 1961 (33 percent), 1962 (46 percent), 1980
(50 percent), 1982 (59 percent), 1992 (85 percent).
• Kirk's Fork EAU #58161; (7.2 miles) 1962 (27 percent), 1982 (59 percent), 1983 (88
percent).
• Deadwood EAU #38201; (39.3 miles) - 1896 (13 percent), 1940 (18 percent), 1968 (41
percent), 1975 (68 percent), 1985 (70 percent), 1989 (72 percent).
• Relief Cr. EAU #38211; (35.4 miles) - 1896 (3 percent), 1950 (4 percent), 1962 (7
percent), 1968 (33 percent), 1975 (68 percent), 1985 (70 percent), 1990 (86 percent).
By the mid-1980s, from 60 to 80 percent of the total roads in most areas had been developed.
At this time, principally due to concerns over elk habitat effectiveness, road closure and access
restriction programs had begun to be implemented to reduce impacts on elk behavior. Although
these mitigations have reduced vehicular and human disturbances, vulnerability to hunting, and
similar impacts on other wildlife, some impacts on habitats and species still remain in place.
Alternative A would not decommission any roads, thus existing cumulative impacts would
remain.
Cumulative effects analysis of large tree patch statistics and changes in large tree stand
retention through time was done roughly on summary decadal intervals (1948, 1970, 1990,
2004) (see Tables 3.166 and 3.167). Large tree stands were identified through aerial photo
interpretation techniques using approximations of 10-15 trees per acre in the 18-21 inch size
classes, so this assessment was of moderate accuracy. Tracking cumulative changes by
individual project became impossible since most project development impacts spanned time
intervals up to 10 years and multiple project impacts sometimes overlapped one another. A
summary of cumulative changes in patch size/shape statistics and large tree acreage changes
overtime are listed below in Tables 3.166 and 3.167.
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TABLE 3.166 -AVERAGE PATCH SIZE AND SHAPE OF LARGE TREES
Year
Average Patch Size I „ ^atch|^pe , ,
1 (1.00= perfect circle)
American River
1948
1970
1990
2004
219.09
168.54
160.78
158.38
1.97
1.97
2.08
2.11
Crooked River
1948
1970
1990
2004
100.40
100.40
83.36
71.51
1.69
1.69
1.72
1.70
Patch shape definition: Perimeter to area ratio. Numbers higher than 1.00 indicate increased
edge effects and fragmentation. As shown by the above table, as the patch size of large trees
decreases, edge increases.
TABLE 3.167 - LARGE TREE ACREAGE CUMULATIVE CHANGES (RETAINED ACRES)
Drainage
American
River
Crooked
River
Old Growth Analysis Area
3050504
3050505
3050506
3050509
3050510
3050511
3050516
OGAA 3050301
3050303
3050304
3050305
3050306
1948
1519
1351
508
5068
1769
244
940
1976
829
1612
328
320
1970
1015
691
472
4834
1769
244
649
1909
829
1612
328
320
1990
1003
691
472
4209
1760
211
560
1472
829
1357
328
320
2004
1003
691
472
3950
1624
211
534
1376
815
1334
328
320
As shown by the above table, most old growth analysis areas have seen some losses in the
large tree component over time.
Collectively, all additive impacts would be scattered across the entire 39,000 acre treatment
area, which is located within a much larger landscape. Within this larger perspective, the
cumulative effects, when combined with Alternatives A, B, C, D, or E, would not be expected to
yield adverse effects on any species or habitats that would threaten the population viability of
any species discussed in the wildlife section, as well as those discussed in Appendix J.
ALTERNATIVE A- NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
Fire/Early Serai Dependent - This alternative would allow cumulative fuel-loading to occur
unabated. Cumulative effects would initially be harmful to some species because fire would be
discouraged initially, but eventually the accumulations and continuity of fuels may encourage
larger acreages to burn and regenerate which would result in outcomes beneficial for most
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fire/early serai species to mixed degrees. Some of these species also require interspersions of
live cover with early serai habitat, so benefits to some species would be limited. Due to the
magnitude and landscape acreages affected by the mountain pine beetle infestations, past and
future harvests in the analysis area and on Bureau of Land Management and private lands in
the area would likely have limited influence on overall effects to most of these species.
Late Seral/Old-Growth Associated - This alternative would initially add no direct impacts on
late serai or old growth habitats initially protecting habitat integrity, but would allow highest
levels of cumulative fuel-loading to occur. Cumulative effects would include uncertain future
risks for fire losses of late serai and old growth habitats in patterns and patch sizes at scales
that may be outside historical norms. The effects may potentially be negative for some species
in some places.
Aquatic Dependent - This alternative would likely have no measurable cumulative impacts on
habitats or species.
Security Dependent - This alternative would have no measurable cumulative impacts on
critical habitats for species requiring remote, undeveloped areas, but would allow moderately
high open road densities, access, and human intrusion effects in some portions of the analysis
area. Current risk levels of wildlife disturbance, displacement and potential mortality would
remain unchanged in developed areas.
Ponderosa Pine Dependent - This alternative would have no measurable impacts on habitats
or species of this guild.
Cave Dependent - This alternative would have no measurable impacts on habitats or species
of this guild.
ALTERNATIVES B, C, D, AND E
Fire/Early Serai Dependent - Action alternatives, along with past and planned future harvests,
would remove relatively moderate acreage amounts of habitat components (standing dead
trees) deemed important to feeding and nesting for at least one species. For black-backed
woodpecker, the overall effects would be minimal given the overall acreage now dead or dying.
Action alternatives would have the initial effect of potentially reducing local fire intensity risks
where fuels are removed, resulting in uncertain levels of both positive and negative effects to
various species of this guild.
Late Seral/Old-Growth Associated - Action alternatives would protect all existing old growth
and adequate replacement old growth from direct harvest, thus direct impacts for most species
would be avoided. Moderate levels of partial harvest treatments in mid-serai stands would help
favor future development of habitat elements (large, fire-adapted tree species important to
cavity-nesting species), important as nest/feed trees to several species. Moderate additional
fragmentation of mid-serai forest landscapes would occur with uncertain negative impacts.
Direct losses of some nests and potential nest trees outside of old growth would occur. Future
risks of late serai and old growth habitat losses to fire would remain except possibly within or
near harvested sites.
Aquatic Dependent - Action alternatives would protect moist riparian-zone habitats used for
feeding, resting, and/or reproduction, but watershed restoration actions would initially add
modest levels of sediment to stream conditions impacted by cumulative past activities in the
drainages, elevating impacts related to sediment and water quality. The overall cumulative
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effects would be relatively minimal in terms of impacts to aquatic wildlife species and their
habitats.
Security Dependent - Alternative B would decommission nearly 14 miles of road, an 11
percent reduction, which would slightly reduce overall road impacts. Alternative C would
decommission nearly 18 miles of road, a 13 percent reduction, which would slightly reduce
overall road impacts. Alternative D would decommission up to approximately 37 miles of road,
a 27 percent reduction, which would moderately reduce overall road impacts. Alternative E
would decommission approximately 37 miles of road if all required and discretionary work is
done, a 27 percent reduction, which would moderately reduce overall road impacts.
Alternatives B and C would modestly improve habitat security compared to Alternative A by
reducing motorized access particularly in the American River portion of the analysis area, but
the Crooked River portion would remain the same as Alternative A. Alternatives D and E would
improve habitat security to the highest level and positive effects would accrue to both the
American and Crooked River portions of the analysis area compared to Alternatives A, B, and
C. Although temporary road construction would occur in order to access some harvest units,
these temporary roads would be decommissioned and would not contribute to long-term
motorized access and security reduction.
Ponderosa pine Dependent - Action alternatives would have no measurable impacts on
habitats or species of this guild.
Cave-dependent - Action alternatives would have no measurable impacts on habitats or
species of this guild.
3.11.6. IRREVERSIBLE. IRRETRIEVABLE EFFECTS (ALL TERRESTRIAL SPECIES!
None of the alternatives described and analyzed would implement actions or activities that
would result in an irreversible or irretrievable commitment of resources harmful to populations of
any resident or migratory wildlife species. In addition, no alternative would result in irreversible
or irretrievable commitment of species or habitat resources that foreclose the formulation or
implementation of reasonable and prudent alternatives that would violate Endangered Species
Act Section 7 (a) (2) leading to jeopardy. None of the alternatives would threaten species
subpopulation viability at the local level. For a more thorough habitat-based discussion, refer to
the document titled: "Habitat-based Terrestrial Vertebrate Populations Viability related to the
American/Crooked River Project', (see the project files), and Appendix J.
FOREST PLAN COMPLIANCE
The following Forest-wide Standards for Wildlife Resources, from among those listed on page II-
18 and 11-19 of the Nez Perce National Forest Plan and Forest Plan Amendment 20 (PACFISH),
apply to this project and will be met as follows:
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TABLE 3.168- FOREST PLAN COMPLIANCE-WILDLIFE RESOURCES
1SSZ 1 SUB.ECTSUM^V
COMPLIANCE ACHIEVED By
Forest Plan Standards
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
10
13
16
Maintain viable populations of existing
native and desirable non-native
vertebrate wildlife species
Cooperate with future recovery efforts
for peregrine falcon, bald eagle, gray
wolf and grizzly bear.
Monitor population levels of all MIS on
the Forest.
Recognize fishing and hunting rights
guaranteed the Nez Perce Tribe
Coordinate with the Idaho Department
of Fish and Game to achieve mutual
goals for fish and wildlife.
Use "Guidelines for Evaluating and
Managing Summer Elk Habitat in
Northern Idaho" to manage for and to
assess the attainment of summer elk
habitat objectives in project evaluations
(Appendix B).
Provide management for minimum
viable populations of old-growth and
snag dependent species by adhering to
the standards stated in Appendix N.
Educate Forest Service employees
about wolves including habitat and prey
needs, and wolf characteristics.
Maintain or improve elk habitat at, or
near, optimum levels by applying elk
guidelines in key wolf areas outside
wilderness.
Consult with IDFG & USFWS to
determine management of known or
suspected initial wolf home sites
Consult with the IDFG & USFWS
whenever conflicts between wolves and
livestock arise.
Viable populations would continue to be maintained on the
Forest. See Wildlife Section 3. 11 and Appendix J
Continued involvement and annual meetings between
agencies. Recovery efforts have been met for most of
these species.
Management indicator species would continue to be
monitored. Cooperative efforts between the Forest; BLM,
and IDFG to monitor MIS on the Forest are occurring.
Government to Government consultation has occurred for
this project. The Forest continues to recognize the fishing
and hunting rights guaranteed the Nez Perce Tribe.
The Forest continues to work with the IDFG in managing
wildlife species and their habitat. Continued involvement
and annual meetings between agencies.
The Forest uses these guidelines to assess existing
condition and effects of the alternative of this project. The
six elk analysis units associated with this project are at or
above their management objective. See Section 3.1 1
Old growth standards would be met or exceeded with this
project.
Snag standards would be met or exceeded with this project
by implementing the Northern Region Snag Protocol.
See Section 3. 11 -old growth and snag section and
Appendix J.
Information related to wolves is disseminated to employees.
Elk forage habitat would be improved as this project is
implemented. The North Idaho Guidelines for Evaluating
and Managing Summer Elk Habitat was used to evaluate
the effects of this project in 6 elk analysis units, not just in
key wolf areas. The six elk analysis units associated with
this project are at or above their management objective.
See Section 3.11
Government-to-Government consultation continues to
occur.
Government-to-Government consultation occurs when
conflicts arise.
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STANDARD
NUMBER
SUBJECT SUMMARY
COMPLIANCE ACHIEVED BY
Forest Plan Amendment 20 (PACFISH)
FW1
Design and implement fish and wildlife
habitat restoration and enhancement
that contributes to Riparian
Management Objectives
See FEIS Section 3.2, 3.3, 3.11, and Appendix D.
FW2
Design, construct, and operate fish and
wildlife interpretive and other user-
enhancement facilities in a manner that
does not retard or prevent attaining the
RMOs.
See FEIS Appendix D Recreation and trail Improvement
Projects.
FW-3
Cooperate with Federal, Tribal, and
State wildlife management agencies
and eliminate wild ungulate impacts
that prevent attainment of RMOs or
adversely affect listed anadromous fish.
See wildlife section, no wild ungulate related impacts have
been documented.
The following Forest Plan Standards for Wildlife Resources do not apply within the context of
this project.
TABLE 3.169 - FOREST PLAN STANDARDS FOR WILDLIFE RESOURCES THAT DO NOT APPLY
STANDARD
NUMBER
9
11
12
14
15
17
SUBJECT SUMMARY
Coordinate the scheduling of land-
disturbing activities with adjacent
Districts to address cumulative effects
over large areas in key wolf habitats.
Design timber harvest activities in
moderate and high elk objective
areas, when compatible with
established fish/water quality
objectives and economics, so that
units at the far end of the road will be
cut first.
Avoid logging activity on traditional big
game calving/fawning or nursery
areas from May 15-June15.
The use of non-protected KV funds to
protect or enhance habitats for
threatened and endangered species.
Consult with USFWS on allotment or
livestock class changes or grazing
period extensions in areas where
allotment boundaries overlap or are
near key wolf areas.
Develop a site-specific nest
management plan for active bald
eagles nests within 2 years after
EXPLANATION
Federal Register Nov. 22 1994, notice states that no land-
use restrictions may be employed when six or more
breeding pairs are established. See Section 3.11 for
effects analysis.
Given the difference in logging systems, it is not
economical, feasible, or practical to cut units at the far
end the road first.
No key traditional calving areas occur in the project area
(Documentation in project file). When wetland areas are
found within harvest units, appropriate Amendment 20
buffers will be applied.
The protection or enhancement of wildlife habitats for T&E
species can be accomplished other then KV funds.
Habitat enhancement projects are a part or an outcome of
the project and mitigation measures are also part of the
project to protect T&E species. See ROD and Chapter 2.
Government-to-Government consultation continues to
occur. Federal Register Nov. 22 1994, notice states that
no land-use restrictions may be employed when six or
more breeding pairs are established.
Nesting bald eagles have not been documented on the
Nez Perce National Forests.
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STANDARD
NUMBER
18
SUBJECT SUMMARY
discovery.
Continue the Raptor-Lookout Program
that was initiated to utilize lookout
towers as observation posts.
EXPLANATION
District personnel continue to report wildlife observations.
3.11.7. OLD GROWTH HABITAT ANALYSIS
Old growth forests can be defined in a variety of ways. The most common definition of old
growth is a structural stage having old trees of relatively large size, a significant presence of
disease or decay, high levels of dead standing and downed trees, and (usually) multiple
canopies. However, old growth definitions vary according to forest type, disturbance regime,
site productivity, and etc (Kaufmann et a/., 1992). Specific definitions of old growth and the
attributes necessary to meet those definitions must be tailored to the forest type being
considered. For example, ponderosa pine old growth forests are drier, have much less
decaying organic matter and dead material, and often have only a single layer canopy. These
attributes are very different from a western red cedar old growth forest, but both may be
classified as old growth.
The Northern Idaho Zone Old Growth Type Characteristics were used to qualify old growth
stands for the American-Crooked Project in the Draft EIS. During the comment phase of the
DEIS, the issue was raised that criteria from the North Idaho Old Growth Guidelines (Green et
a/., 1992) was used to qualify old growth rather than using the Forest Plan (Appendix N)
standards. The old growth analysis has been updated to include those areas that meet Forest
Plan old growth standards. Both Forest Plan standards and North Idaho guidelines were used
to assess old growth conditions within the American and Crooked River watersheds.
A brief comparison summarizing the two sets of old-growth qualifying criteria are listed below:
TABLE 3.170 - SUMMARY OF OLD-GROWTH QUALIFYING CRITERIA
NORTH IDAHO ZONE TYPE CHARACTERISTICS (GREEN,
ETAL.) TYPE #4 (DF.GF, L, SAP, WH, WP)
AMER/CROOKTYPE
Minimum tree age of large trees = 150 yrs.
Minimum of 10 trees/acre > 21 inches dbh
Secondary Criteria: 0-28% dead/broken tops; 1-4%
decay; 1-3 snags.
NEZ PERCE NAT'L FOREST PLAN APPENDIX N (OLD GROWTH AND
SNAG} STANDARDS
No tree age criteria.
Minimum of 15 trees/acre > 21 inches dbh ; "Providing trees
of this size in lodgepole pine and subalpine fir stands may not
be possible."
Secondary criteria: >.5 snags/acre>21 inches dbh. 40+ feet
tall; signs of rot/decadence; total canopy closure = 70+%;
logs on the ground.
Old growth as defined by either set of criteria is relatively limited in some areas though
abundant in others. In reality, most of the sites, which were qualified and selected under the
North Idaho Zone criteria, would most likely be the same as those that would qualify under the
Forest Plan Standards (Appendix N).
As a result of updating and applying the Forest Plan old growth criteria, several units were
dropped from consideration for harvest where they overlapped with Forest Plan old growth. In
order to provide maximum protection of old growth, harvest/fuel treatment units have been
eliminated from consideration for treatment (See Table 2.3, project design and mitigations
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measures Item #1). Unit boundaries would be adjusted as necessary during unit layout to
protect the integrity of these old growth areas. Refer to the Project File old growth analysis
documents for assumptions and analysis details.
ANALYSIS METHODS
An extensive overview of old growth forest conditions across the landscape within the South
Fork Clearwater River Subbasin is referenced on pages 85-86 in the South Fork Clearwater
River Landscape Assessment Volume I (USDA FS, 1998a) and Map #44 of the SFLA Volume II.
A detailed summary of the methodology used to inventory and analyze old growth is found in
the Project Files: "Crooked/American Project - Old Growth Analysis Assumptions".
Stand exam data from FSVEG was queried for stands meeting criteria from the North Idaho
Zone Old Growth methodology and Forest Plan (Appendix N) definitions. Stands meeting all
criteria for existing old growth were reviewed by use of the ARC/CIS system to ensure they
have not been harvested or thinned in a manner that may have compromised their habitat
effectiveness. Stands that met all criteria for replacement old growth were similarly verified.
Unsampled stands were reviewed using the "Large Tree 2002" ARC/CIS screen (stands with
large trees in 1935 and not since harvested or burned), and compared against known old
growth stands using tree size, canopy, and common canopy texture as a guide before being
considered old growth. These were also verified to be present on the landscape using the
ARC/GIS tool along with aerial photos.
To develop a basis for estimating the possible amount and location of current old-growth, old
aerial photos were compared to current stand data. Areas with medium and large trees were
mapped using circa 1930 photos. Where harvest or fires have occurred since 1934, those
areas were removed to get the current remaining large trees. Those areas that are large trees
currently, as well as in the 1930s (minus harvest and fires), could potentially be considered old
growth today. Both Forest Plan standards and North Idaho guidelines were used to assess old
growth conditions within the American and Crooked River watersheds. In addition, large trees
from 1935 that have had harvest over the years, were used to assess cumulative impacts to
large trees and potential old growth areas.
EXISTING CONDITION
Old growth habitat in the American River drainage is somewhat less impacted and fragmented
by past timber harvest than the Crooked river drainage.
Within the entire South Fork Clearwater River (SFCR) landscape, stands with large trees
historically tended to be concentrated at the north and west ends of the SFCR subbasin, in
areas maintained by frequent low severity fire (Vegetative Response Units -VRUs 3 and 4), or
on moist sites where fire was infrequent (VRUs 7 and 10). In other parts of the subbasin
(including Crooked River and to some extent, the American River drainages), stands with large
trees tended to be more fragmented from one another, often associated with north slopes and
draws where fire might have bypassed them (USDA FS, 1998a, p 86). As stated in the SFLA
(USDA FS, 1998a, Chapter 2, p 7), "The significance of wildfire in presettlement times can
scarcely be overestimated as a key shaping element of the landscape". This is evident in the
display of presettlement fire regimes for both American and Crooked River areas on Map #8
(USDA FS, 1998a). Both watersheds have been influenced and fragmented in part, by
infrequent, lethal fires. Local old growth associated species have nevertheless maintained their
Chapter 3
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
presence and contribution to populations viability locally despite the historical fragmentation
effects of previous fires.
Past clearcut harvest patterns in the American and Crooked river project area have impacted
some old growth complexes by further fragmenting and changing overall distribution patterns of
old age timber stands. While present old growth stands in the American River portion of the
analysis area remain relatively abundant, the distribution and connectivity is not uniform, being
concentrated principally in the northern half of the drainage along the eastern and western
sides. The old growth in the Crooked River drainage has been impacted by previous fire
impacts, harvesting and reading, in addition to fire exclusion. Many stands consequently are
now slightly smaller, more widely spaced and moderately fragmented. Aggregations (blocks) of
old growth in the Crooked River portion of the analysis area tend to be concentrated mostly in
the western portions of the area. While the historic patterns and amounts of old growth have
been impacted by previous management in some areas, overall distribution and patch
aggregations with large tree components important to old growth species still remain relatively
consistent in landscape proximity with historical location patterns similar to 1930 (USDA FS,
1998a; Map #44 - South Fork Clearwater Subbasin Large Trees in 1930 and Possible Current
Old Growth).
Despite the accepted importance of connectedness and corridors in maintaining old growth and
populations viability of its associated species, new and somewhat contradictory information
suggests that the importance of connectedness should be balanced with risks of natural
disturbance events. New theories and biodiversity studies are beginning to build a case for the
value of heterogeneity or dissimilarity in forest stands (Dodge., 2003). Reduced connectedness
and enhanced permeability may increase resistance to agents of catastrophe and enhance
resilience after catastrophes. The current mountain pine beetle infestation within analysis area
drainages directly threatens lodgepole pine components and entire stands throughout the area,
which indirectly raises risk uncertainty of future fire-induced old growth losses. The relative level
of this loss risk remains uncertain due to the uncertainty of future fire intensities, weather
conditions, and suppression effectiveness during these events. Patches of old growth that have
become more fragmented and surrounded by areas density-rich with dying lodgepole .pine may
be at greater fire-loss risk in the future. With respect to maintenance of species populations that
require old growth structure as part of their key habitat needs, work by Fahrig (1997), suggests
that the effects of habitat loss far outweigh the effects of habitat fragmentation. Fahrig further
contends that details of how habitats are arranged cannot usually mitigate the risks of habitat
loss and for this reason, conservation efforts should be aimed primarily at stopping habitat loss
and at habitat restoration. Absence of any harvesting within or around the perimeters or habitat
connections of existing old growth patches protects patch habitat integrity in the short-term, but
may increase loss risks for some patches to wildfires in the longer term, especially given
continued fire exclusion.
Intermediate-aged stands in the analysis area are relatively abundant and widespread. While
some isolated intermediate-aged stands that could eventually become old growth have
lodgepole pine or mixed conifer species components and are planned for some measure of
harvest, the American and Crooked River project old growth planning verification process
selected and identified future replacement old growth stands that were in closest proximity to or
within existing old growth patches. This selective design for long-term old growth helps
maintain the most logical proximity and long-term continuity of old growth complexes with time.
In this way, the project planning and design provides protection of future old growth stands.
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
Ensuring protection from harvest and protecting future old growth geographically aggregated is
done with the intent that animal movement and genetic exchange will be maintained
commensurate with historic landscape patterns in the area. In addition, riparian habitat
corridors are protected between these units to further maintain connectivity probability. These
moist habitats are particularly important to several old growth management indicator species
(fisher, pine marten, goshawk).
OLD GROWTH & REPLACEMENT OLD GROWTH IN THE PROJECT AREA
PROJECT LEVEL ANALYSIS
Current existing old growth and replacement percentages of forested acres within each old
growth analysis area (OGAA) within the overall project area are displayed (in bold type) below.
Those in regular type face are listed here to illustrate and address cumulative effects of related
actions, and to show excess amounts of old growth in adjacent OGAAs necessary to
compensate for acreage-short units to ensure Forest Plan standards compliance. See Maps
17a and 17b for a visual representation of the distribution of old growth within the project area.
The following table shows the amount of old growth habitat existing within various old growth
units within the American and Crooked River watersheds.
TABLE 3.171 - OLD GROWTH HABITAT IN THE AMERICAN AND CROOKED RIVER DRAINAGES
Drainage
American
River
Crooked
River
OGAA#
3050509
3050510
3050516
3050511
3050506
3050504
3050505
3050301
3050303
3050304
Total
Forest Plan
OG1
Acres
1787
1561
202
114
99
1378
1170
1286
741
1795
10133
%
16.06
34.73
8.30
1.94
1.31
37.2
33.89
14.84
10.27
13.04
14.68
Replacement
OG2
Acres
523
450
31
520
70
529
74
446
652
1007
4302
%
4.41
10.01
1.27
8.85
0.92
14.23
2.14
5.15
9.04
7.32
6.23
Total FP&
Replacement
OG3
Acres
2310
2011
233
634
169
1907
1244
1732
1393
2802
14435
%
19.47
44.74
9.58
10.79
2.23
51.48
36.04
19.99
19.31
20.36
20.91
North Idaho
OG4
Acres
2494
1999
235
50
264
1175
795
980
117
2163
10272
%
21.02
44.47
9.66
0.85
3.48
31.72
23.03
11.31
1.62
15.72
14.88
Overlap
FP&N
IDOG5
1494
1439
72
0
28
808
571
617
39
1088
4166
Adjacent
OGAAtf6
3050510
3050510
3050505/
3050504
3050509
Acres and percent Forest Plan old growth in each old growth analysis area.
Acres and percent replacement old growth in each old growth analysis area. Replacement old growth can be
applied with either Forest Plan or North Idaho old growth.
Total acres and percent Forest Plan old growth and replacement old growth in each old growth analysis area.
Total acres and percent North Idaho old growth in each old growth analysis area.
5 Acres of overlap between Forest Plan and North Idaho old growth.
Old growth analysis areas that have an excess of old growth or replacement old growth used to compensate for
deficiencies in old growth analysis areas that are below 5% and/or 10% Forest Plan and North Idaho old growth.
Chapter 3
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
In the American River drainage, 2 old growth analysis areas fall short of meeting the minimum 5
percent existing old growth and none in Crooked River. However, several adjacent old growth
analysis areas in excess of 10 percent old growth were used and added to the deficient old
growth analysis areas to meet the Forest's old growth standard by old growth analysis area.
Approximately 15 percent of the project area is currently identified as Forest Plan old growth.
Old growth validation surveys were conducted in the summer/fall of 2004 (See silviculture
project file). A stand was considered old growth if the quantitative data collected met the Forest
Plan old growth definition of 15 trees per acres greater than 21 inches dbh. Approximately
6,400 acres within the American and Crooked River project area (39,000 acres) was identified
as Forest Plan old growth. Field exams have shown that approximately 60 percent of those
sub-sampled stands identified as old growth do in fact meet the Forest Plan criteria of 15+ trees
per acre greater than 21" dbh. Table 3.172 displays the summary results of the field surveys.
TABLE 3.172 - SUMMARY OF OLD GROWTH FIELD EXAMS
Trees per Acre >= 21" dbh
10+tpa
14+tpa
15+tpa
Percent of sub-sampled project area
old growth that meet certain tpa criteria
79
71
60
Based on the above information and the random design of the sampling procedure, it can be
inferred that of the 6400 acres identified as old growth within the project area, 60 percent would
meet the Forest Plan criteria of having 15+ trees per acre greater than 21" dbh.
FOREST-WIDE FOREST INVENTORY ANALYSIS
The Nez Perce National Forest used the 2000-2002 Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) survey
to estimate the percentage of the Forest that meets the definition of old growth both for Forest
Plan standards and North Idaho guidelines. The FIA survey is a general purpose, national
inventory that is designed for strategic assessments (Czaplewski et a/., 2003). FIA provides a
representative sample of all forests, regardless of their classification. Using measurements of
field plots, definitions of old growth were applied. The following table depicts the estimated
percentage of old growth for the Nez Perce National Forest. Estimated percentage of Forest
Plan old growth on all Forested lands on the Nez Perce National Forest is 11 percent (using
trees per acre, number of canopy layers, and percent canopy cover). Applying North Idaho
criteria to forested lands on the Nez Perce National Forest, the estimated percentage of old
growth is 12 percent (See project file for more information of the distribution of old growth, Bush
and Zeiler 2004).
TABLE 3.173 - ESTIMATES OF PERCENT OLD GROWTH FOR LAND MANAGED BY THE NEZ PERCE
NATIONAL FOREST, INCLUDING 90% CONFIDENCE INTERVALS
Old growth or snag criteria
Forest Plan old growth
(15tpa>21"dbh
Forest Plan old growth
(15 tpa >21" dbh, plus canopy layer
and canopy cover criteria)
North Idaho old growth guidelines
90% confidence
interval lower bound
18%
9%
10%
Estimated
mean
21%
11%
12%
90% confidence
interval upper bound
24%
14%
15%
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
The results of the Forest-wide Forest Inventory and Analysis indicate that, overall, old growth
habitat is widely distributed across the Forest The total potential Forest Plan old growth habitat
represent approximately 11 percent of the forested land with a 90 percent confidence interval of
9 percent to 14 percent. Within the American River watershed, total Forest Plan old growth
habitat represents 22 percent (90 percent Cl of 6 percent to 39 percent) of the forests lands in
the American River watershed and 0 percent (90 percent Cl) in the Crooked River watershed
(15 tpa greater than 21 inches dbh, plus canopy layer and canopy cover criteria). The following
table displays old growth habitat based on the FIA analysis for American and Crooked River.
TABLE 3.174 - SUMMARY OF PERCENT OF OLD GROWTH HABITAT, BASED ON FIA ANALYSIS, FOR
AMERICAN AND CROOKED RIVER WATERSHEDS (WITH 90% CONFIDENCE INTERVAL).
Landscape Area (5th
Code HUC)
Crooked River
Forest Plan old growth 15
tpa >21" dbh {%
Landscape)
CILow
0
Mean
28
0
Ci High
50
0
Forest Plan old growth 15
tpa >21" dbh, plus canopy
layer and canopy cover
criteria % Landscape)
CILow
6
0
Mean
22
0
Ci High
39
0
North Idaho old growth
guidelines
CILow
0
0
Mean
9
4
Ci
High
21
13
Based on the FIA data for the American River watershed, approximately 22 percent of the
watershed meets the Forest Plan old growth criteria and 9 percent meets the North Idaho old
growth guidelines. Only 4 percent of the Crooked River watershed would meet the North Idaho
old growth criteria based on the FIA information. This could be a reflection of the number of
Plots that fell within the Crooked River watershed and the current condition of the landscape
(dominated by lodgepole pine, and past activities - both human-induced and natural).
For the South Fork Clearwater River/approximately 14 percent of the subbasin would meet the
Forest Plan old growth criteria and 21 percent of the subbasin would meet North Idaho old
growth guidelines. Table 3.175 summarizes old growth habitat from the FIA analysis Forest-
wide and by 4th HUC.
TABLE 3-175 - SUMMARY OF PERCENT OF OLD GROWTH HABITAT, FOREST-WIDE, ON THE NEZ PERCE
NATIONAL FOREST, BASED ON FIA ANALYSIS (WITH 90% CONFIDENCE INTERVAL).
Landscape Area (4th
Code HUC}
Middle Salmon River
Lower Salmon River
Little Salmon River
Upper Selway
Lower Selway
Middle Fork Clearwater
River
South Fork Clearwater
River
Total (Forested
Landscape-Nez Perce
Nation Forest)
Forest Plan old growth 15
tpa>21"dbh{%
Landscape)
CILow
9
23
13
10
14
13
18
18
Mean
15
31
30
18
19
36
24
21
Cl High
20
42
50
26
24
60
31
24
Forest Plan old growth 1 5 tpa
>21" dbh, plus canopy layer
and canopy cover criteria (%
Landscape)
CILow
5
9
0
3
6
3
9
9
Mean
9
16
7
7
10
18
14
11
Cl High
13
25
20
13
14
35
19
24
North Idaho old growth
guidelines
CILow
10
7
3
4
7
3
6
10
16
1fi
10
10
10
21
10
12
Cl High
21
25
39
18
14
43
14
15
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
Summary
In reviewing the project level analysis, approximately 15 percent of the project area would meet
Forest Plan standards for existing old growth. The amount of old growth and replacement old
growth exceeds 10 percent for the project (approximately 21 percent). Even though some old
growth analysis units fall short of the 5 percent existing old growth, adjacent old growth analysis
units are used to compensate for old growth shortages in other units (See Table 3.171 - Old
Growth Habitat in the American and Crooked River Drainages).
Based on the FIA information, Crooked River falls short of meeting Forest Plan standards for old
growth while American River would exceed Forest Plan standards (See Table 3.174 - Summary
of percent of old growth habitat, based on FIA analysis, for American and Crooked River
watersheds). The amount and distribution of old growth habitat at a small scale like a 5th HUC
watershed is probably a reflection of the capability and current condition of the landscape
(dominated by lodgepole pine, and past activities - both human-induced and natural), as well as
the number of plots across the landscape.
At the Forest level, approximately 11 percent of the forested landscape would qualify as Forest
Plan old growth based on trees per acres, diameters, and canopy cover criteria (See Table
3.175 - Summary of percent of old growth habitat, Forest-wide, on the Nez Perce National
Forest, based on FIA analysis). Based on this information, the amount of old growth exceeds
10 percent for the Forest. Given that the project is designed to not harvest in any old growth
(Forest Plan or North Idaho) or replacement old growth stands, it is concluded that there is
enough old growth in the project area and Forest-wide to meet Forest Plan old growth standards
for existing and replacement old growth.
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
The American and Crooked River Project was designed to avoid all direct harvest impacts on
old growth and replacement old growth stands that contribute toward large consolidated blocks.
Planned harvests may contribute to slightly reduced future fire loss risks of nearby old growth in
some situations, but a measure of uncertainty exists (refer to fire effects analysis section of this
document). In the American and Crooked River Project area, all alternatives harvest no existing
old growth. Abundant replacement old growth stands are identified and protected from harvest
and reading. All action alternatives are expected to have no direct measurable negative effect
on local habitat relative to viability of species associated with old growth, but indirect effects and
risks of fire loss remain to some degree uncertain.
Noxious weeds, road decommissioning, watershed restoration actions, and post-harvest slash
treatments using fire are not expected to impact old growth habitats considerably regardless of
alternative.
ALTERNATIVE A-NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
No direct effects to old growth stands, replacement old growth stands or any mixed conifer
stands will occur, thus existing old growth habitat patch sizes and connectivity will be
maintained.
Alternative A would not treat any of the existing vegetation. Fire suppression would still
continue, but as the vegetation grows older, a steadily accumulation of woody fuels will occur.
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
As fuels increase, particularly those that create a ladder between the live tree canopies, the risk
of a lethal crown fire increases. Even if the risk of ignition remains constant, the risk of a total
stand replacing fire increases dramatically. Given the situation with the beetle infestation, the
lodgepole pine mortality, and the dead fuel accumulation, the old growth patches are at risk of
being lost to fire. As a result of indirect effects from continued fuel buildups and chances for
lethal stand-replacing fires to occur, old growth habitat is at risk of burning if a lethal crown fire
occurs in these areas.
ALTERNATIVES B. C. D. AND E
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
There would be no direct impacts to the old growth areas as no harvest would occur in these
areas. However, the proposed project would harvest trees outside of any old growth
management areas, resulting in indirect effects to existing old growth patches from additional
fragmentation of new harvest units adjacent to old growth patches. Alternative D would' have
the greatest effects in terms of additional fragmentation to old growth patches followed by
alternatives C, B, and then E.
Forest fragmentation and edge effects are expected to increase with the action alternatives as
new openings are created by proposed harvest activities, or openings would become larger as
new harvest units are placed adjacent to existing openings from past timber harvest.
Action alternatives would treat vegetation, directly impacting patches of mature mixed conifer
habitats, but would produce no direct effects to existing old growth stands or patch sizes. There
would be no additional impacts to streamside vegetation from harvest activities. Therefore,
streamsides would be allowed to function as they currently do and the vegetation would be
allowed to grow older. Old growth habitat connectivity would remain by retention of riparian
corridors and replacement old growth. Important replacement old growth stands would also be
protected from harvest. Relatively moderate levels of harvest of mixed conifers will be
harvested.
Road decommissioning will decrease some of the past fragmentation by reducing the amount of
roads bisecting old growth patches and revegetating old road templates. Alternative E would
reduce the greatest amount of road bisecting old growth patches, followed by D, C, and then B.
Other indirect effects include the reduction in dead fuels and the breakup of the fuel patterns
that would contribute to a potential, large-scale, high intensity wildfire and reduce the effects to
old growth associated species. However, this would be at the expense of increased
fragmentation and loss of snags surrounding the old growth patches.
Areas that are currently fragmented will grow into pole or larger trees in the next decade and
again provide a contiguous forest link, decreasing forest fragmentation. At the same time,
action alternatives would create new clearcuts, seed trees, and shelterwoods, increasing forest
fragmentation.
In those areas that would not receive any treatment, would have the same effects as described
in alternative A.
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
CUMULA TIVE EFFECTS (INCLUDES FORESEEABLE FUTURE A CTIONS)
COMMON To ALL ALTERNATIVES
Collectively, all additive impacts would be scattered across the entire 39,000 acre project area
within a much larger landscape. Past harvesting and fire effects patterns have impacted
habitats with overall cumulative habitat fragmentation, changes in patch size and dynamics,
increased reading and related human disturbance impacts, increased edge effects, and
reductions in old growth habitat abundance as illustrated and referenced by Map #12 of the
South Fork Clearwater River Landscape Assessment (USDA FS, 1998a). In the American
River portion of the analysis area, most of the nearly 6,000 acres of historical harvest (83
percent) was done during the 1950s-80s with the remaining 17 percent being done during the
1990s-current time. Nearly 5000 acres of harvests in the Crooked River portion of the area
occurred predominantly (84 percent) in the 1960s-1980s with the remaining 16 percent
occurring since the 1990s. The effects have impacted late serai/old growth species and security
dependent species the most, however many intermediate-aged stands have since moved into
late-serai or old growth conditions as well.
In reviewing the 1935 large tree data set to. assess the impacts to mature forests since logging
began in American and Crooked River watersheds, nearly half of the harvest in the American
River watershed has possibly taken place in mature forests. Nearly 20 percent of the harvest in
Crooked River has possibly occurred in mature forests (See Table 3.176).
TABLE 3.176 - PERCENT HARVEST OF HISTORICAL MATURE FORESTS.
American River
Decade
1950
1960
1970
1980
1990
2000
Total
Acres Harvest
124
2419
1014
1424
999
19
5999
1935 Large
Tree Harvest
33
1508
639
311
261
161
2913
Crooked River
Decade
1950
1960
1970
1980
1990
2000
Total
Acres Harvest
0
93
1936
2097
805
0
4931
1935 Large
Tree Harvest
0
0
338
411
145
0
894
Past timber harvest, wildfire, fire suppression, and mining activity have altered habitat
characteristics in the project area by reducing the amount and distribution of large and medium
trees, snags, and down wood, and by creating numerous, small patches across the landscape.
Timber harvest and road construction have reduced the amount and continuity of mature and
old growth habitat across the project area (See Tables 3.2-3.5 - Timber harvest and Road
Construction History Tables). In addition, past actions frequently targeted medium and large
trees and valuable ponderosa pine and western larch snags. These actions have left fewer
appropriate stands, and trees within stands, that could be used by species that require mature
or old growth forest conditions. Past harvest left few snags or legacy trees, and little down
wood. As these older harvest units have begun to mature, they are devoid of the structures that
could be utilized by species that require old growth conditions.
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
The effects have impacted late serai/old growth species and security dependent species the
most, however many intermediate-aged stands have since moved into late-serai or old growth
conditions as well. Some species such as early serai associates, have in fact, benefited
substantially from the harvests, while other species guilds were moderately impacted.
At the same time, active fire suppression since the early 1900s has allowed succession to
continue in those stands that have not been harvested. Relatively simple one- and two-story
stands have transitioned to more complex multi-story stands with increased canopy closure, and
individual trees have grown larger. Some of these stands may now qualify as suitable old
growth stands. Increased fuel loads from fire suppression and the current mountain pine beetle
epidemic increase the chance of stand-replacing fires, which could remove several acres of
older forest habitats from the landscape. Fires would create additional snags, but it would take
many decades before new forest would mature to levels where burnt stands could be
considered as old growth. Other projects in or near the project area may also alter the amount,
distribution, and connectivity of older, dense-canopied stands.
The fire history of each watershed added further to past impacts. Historical fire-related impacts
in both drainages occurred prior to the 1950s when most harvest impacts began. Over 13,000
acres have burned in the Crooked River watershed since 1878 with highest fire impacts
occurring in 1889 (46 percent of all acres), and 1945 (39 percent of all acres). Fire impacts in
the American River watershed added over 59,000 acres of disturbance since 1878 with highest
impact years being 1889 (36 percent of all acres), 1910 (18 percent of all acres), and 1919 (41
percent of all acres). Cumulatively, these impacts resulted in greatest negative effects for late
serai/old growth associated and security-dependent species, with moderate or lesser effects on
ponderosa pine dependent, aquatic and cave-dependent species. Fire/early serai -dependent
species subsequently benefited from these harvest and fire disturbances.
The proposed project and others proposed in and adjacent to the American and Crooked River
watersheds could open or remove sufficient acres of canopy. When new units abut old harvest
units and stands undergoing beetle kill, the number and/or size of the openings may be too
large to be used by some wildlife species (Whiskey South, School District Timber Sale,
Orogrande Defensible space, Crooked River Demonstration, Eastside Township projects, timber
harvest on private land, Blanco Burn, Red River Defensible Space, Red River Roadside Hazard
Tree, Red Pines - Table 3.1). For species that require higher canopy closures, the vegetation
may become too sparse and animals may expend too much energy either foraging or moving
through an area. The mountain pine beetle epidemic is creating many, large openings across
the landscape. However, these areas are not devoid of snags. Projects that do not consider
the distribution of the mountain pine beetle-caused openings relative to project activities could
result in greatly reduced habitat across the landscape for old growth dependent and old growth
associated species.
Action alternatives would contribute modestly to harvest-related fragmentation, adding to
cumulative landscape fragmentation, increased openings, and human disturbance risks from
previous harvests, reading, fire exclusion and other human activities. In untreated areas, the
results would be the same as Alternative A.
No alternatives fragment old growth with harvest or roadways within any existing old growth or
replacement old growth patches, thus short-term habitat integrity is protected in all alternatives.
Nesting and denning habitat components provided by old growth will remain protected from
harvest related activities in all alternatives. Some clusters of planned project harvest units, in
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
conjunction with the interruption of fuels created by previous harvest units (such as the area 5
miles due north of Elk City), may impart some measure of fire risk reduction to large old growth
patches. Such risk reduction could potentially allow fire fighters greater opportunity in the future
to suppress fires before they destroy patches of valuable old growth habitats. However, over
most of the project analysis area, due to the accumulations of fuels from past fire exclusion
actions and prevalence of lodgepole pine fuels in the surrounding landscape as well as the
unpredictability of weather conditions when fires occur, the actual level of risk reduction
attributable to planned harvests remains uncertain. Given past fire patterns under natural fire
conditions, post-fire retention of largest old growth patches was good, however conditions now
reflect decades of fire exclusion impacts, which complicates future predictions. If old growth
habitats in the American and Crooked River watershed happen to completely burn up in
wildfires in the near future, old growth conditions would still remain well distributed across the
Forest in the remaining watersheds and habitat for old growth associated species, as well as
other wildlife species, would be managed to maintain viable populations of wildlife species.
SNAG HABITAT
Snags play an important role in creating biodiversity on the landscape. They provide holes that
are homes for birds and small mammals, and decaying trees that are infested with insects
provide food for woodpeckers, other birds, and some rodents.
Large-diameter snags of western larch, ponderosa pine, Douglas-fir, quaking aspen, and paper
birch are favored tree species for nest sites for many snag dependent, wildlife species. Large-
diameter snags provide nest habitat for the greatest variety of cavity nesters and stand longer
than smaller snags. Although most cavity nesters select for the largest snags available in a
geographic area, a few species like the black-backed, downy, and three-toed woodpeckers
prefer smaller trees. Larger and taller snags have greater volume and are more likely to have
the appropriate amount of decay than smaller ones at the preferred heights for nest excavation
and foraging (Bull, etal., 1997: 21-31).
The Nez Perce National Forest used the 2000-2002 Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) survey
to estimate the percentage of the Forest that meets snag requirements outline in the Forest
Plan. The FIA survey is a general purpose, national inventory that is designed for strategic
assessments (Czaplewski, et a/., 2003). FIA provides a representative sample of all forests,
regardless of their classification. The estimated average number of snags per acre on the Nez
Perce National Forest with diameter at breast height (dbh) 10 inches and larger is 11.9 and
snags per acres greater then 20 inches dbh is 2.0 (See Table 3.177). (See project file for more
information of the distribution of snags, Bush and Zeiler 2004). Based on this information,
forest-wide, the Nez Perce National Forest is currently meeting snag standards. In addition, the
very wide extent and magnitude of the mountain pine beetle epidemic has substantially changed
snag habitat available to wildlife species in the Upper South Fork Subbasin.
TABLE 3.177 - ESTIMATES OF SNAGS PER ACRE FOR LAND MANAGED BY THE NEZ PERCE NATIONAL
FOREST, INCLUDING 90 PERCENT CONFIDENCE INTERVALS
Old growth or snag criteria
Snags per acre >10" dbh
Snags per acre >15" dbh
Snags per acre >20" dbh
90% confidence
interval lower bound
10.3 snags/ac
3.6 snags/ac
1 .5 snags/ac
Estimated
mean
1 1 .9 snags/ac
4.5 snags/ac
2.0 snags/ac
90% confidence
interval upper bound
13.6 snags/ac
5.5 snags/ac
2.6 snags/ac
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
The following table displays by 4th HUC the number of snags per acre by diameter group.
Based on the following information, various sizes of snags seem to be well distributed across
the Forest.
TABLE 3.178 - ESTIMATES OF THE NUMBER OF SNAGS PER ACRE BY DIAMETER
HUC AND ASSOCIATED CONFIDENCE INTERVALS.
GROUP AND 4™ CODE
4th Code HUC
Middle Salmon River
Lower Salmon River
Little Salmon River
Upper Selway
Lower Selway
Middle Fork Clearwater River
South Fork Clearwater River
90% Cl for Snags/acre
10"+dbhand larger
lower
bound
9.50
5.64
2.53
7.06
7.92
0.00
10.21
point
estimate
13.38
10.23
15.02
10.48
10.80
4.28
13.58
upper
bound
17.76
15.38
28.88
14.15
13.94
8.42
17.21
90% Cl for Snags/acre
15"+dbhand iarger
lower
bound
2.52
1.96
0.00
1.70
3.11
0.00
2.65
point
estimate
4.67
5.03
8.85
3.49
4.70
2.59
4.28
upper
bound
7.33
8.68
20.06
5.54
6.45
6.02
6.10
90% Cl for Snags/acre
20"+ dbh and larger
lower
bound
1.30
0.50
0.00
0.40
1.09
0.00
0.74
point
estimate
2.59
2.30
4.44
1.35
1.94
1.73
1.68
upper
bound
4.10
4.63
12.04
2.50
2 93
4.81
2.81
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
Harvest activities of dead and dying trees along haul routes as well as in units will reduce the
densities of snags across the landscape. However, in all alternatives, all existing old growth,
replacement old growth, and riparian zones are protected from harvest activities, therefore'
snag habitat will be maintained, as well in other untreated areas. Noxious weeds, watershed
restoration actions, and post-harvest slash treatments using fire are not expected to impact
snags or snag dependent species considerably regardless of alternative. In partially thinned
stands, post-harvest slash treatments may create snags.
The American and Crooked River project was designed to implement the Northern Region Snag
Protocol; therefore, Snag standards would be met or exceeded with this project.
ALTERNATIVE A
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
As forest succession and fire suppression occur in overstocked stands, trees become more
susceptible to attack from insects and disease. This increases the amount of resources
available to wildlife species. As the insect and disease outbreak advances, standing and down
dead material would increase which in turn increases the risk of stand-replacing fires. If a fire
event were to occur, wood-boring beetle populations would spike possibly causing a coincident
spike in some wildlife species. Without a fire event, the insect outbreak would eventually peak
and subside. Grand fir and other more shade tolerant species that currently exist in the
understory of stands with dead and dying trees would continue to grow, perhaps eventually
causing the long-term loss of the early serai tree species (e.g., lodgepole pine, ponderosa pine,
and western larch). The risk of losing early-serai tree species does not seem as high as the risk
of stand-replacing fires in the American and Crooked River watersheds. Under the 'no action'
alternative, the existing level of patchiness in the watershed would persist until a stand-replacing
fire or other management action(s) take place.
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ALTERNATIVES B, C. D. AND E
DIRECT AND INDIRECT
Treatments that include green and dead tree harvest to improve forest health, reduce the
incidence of insects and disease, or reduce fuel buildup would reduce habitat for many snag
dependent species. Not only would the habitat they are using be modified, it would also
increase the patchiness of the remaining habitat.
Numbers of snags are expected to decrease with the action alternatives as snags will be lost as
hazard trees and through damage by logging operations. Many snags felled during harvest
activities for safety reasons are often ones in an advanced state of decay. Felling these snags
can also provide down woody material and subsequent nesting, resting, cover, and foraging
areas for a variety of wildlife species. Some snags will be created from the burning of
harvesting slash where fuel loads are concentrated. Snags can also be created during harvest
activities by trees being damaged or the tops snapping off. However, more snags are generally
lost than created during harvest operations when compared to fire. It is important that sufficient
amounts and size classes of snags are left in clumps or as individuals to meet the needs of
snag dependent wildlife species and to add diversity to the landscape.
Alternative E would modify the fewest acres of snag habitat and alternative D would modify the
greatest acreage. However, Forest Plan standards for snag retention would be met or
exceeded by implementing the Northern Region Snag Protocol, which is being incorporated in
the silvicultural prescriptions.
Public firewood gathering and reduction of snags potentially used for roosting can be expected
to occur along roads. However, this is not expected to result in the loss of species viability in
snag dependent species since snags would still be present in unmanaged stands away from
roads. In addition, with the obliteration of existing roads, the impacts of snag losses along roads
would be lessened.
CUMULATIVE EFFECTS (INCLUDES FORESEEABLE FUTURE ACTIONS)
Snags will continually be lost during harvest activities for safety reasons, as well as firewood
cutting. Snags are also constantly being lost and created resulting from natural wildland fires
and other natural disturbances. Some of these snags fall and provide much needed ground
structure and habitat. With fire suppression and succession, the density of snags may have
increased, but the size of the snags has decreased, which may not be beneficial to many wildlife
species that depend on large-diameter snags and logs.
Approximately 10 percent of the American River and 11 percent of the Crooked River
watersheds have been harvested, including regeneration cuts or clear-cuts, with little provision
for maintenance of soil wood or snags to recruit soil wood. Minor amounts of extensive snag
patches are present on the landscape, except for small-diameter snags associated with recent
lodgepole pine mortality. The current small dead trees benefit small woodpecker species and
may provide some foraging opportunities, but are considered short-term because many are
expected to fall in five years.
Increased fuel loads from fire suppression and the current mountain pine beetle epidemic
increase the chance of stand-replacing fires, which could remove acres of already existing
snags across the landscape. Fires would also create additional snags. Other projects in or
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near the project area may also alter the amount and distribution of snags within the American
and Crooked River and adjacent watersheds.
The mountain pine beetle epidemic is creating many acres of snag habitat. However, the
aforementioned projects will remove a majority of the high-risk trees and create areas practically
devoid of snags or down wood within a given area, especially when the new units are adjacent
to old units.
Activities that reduce the potential for wildfire and insect outbreaks reduce habitat for many snag
dependent species, which in turn affects population levels. Projects within and adjacent to
American and Crooked River watersheds all target fuel loading and bug-infested trees in some
capacity (Whiskey South, School District Timber Sale, Orogrande Defensible space, Crooked
River Demonstration, Eastside Township projects, timber harvest on private land, Blanco Burn,
Red River Defensible Space, Red River Roadside Hazard Tree, Red Pines - Table 3.1). Other
ongoing activities such as post and pole gathering, firewood cutting, road maintenance, and fire
suppression also affect habitats that could be utilized by wildlife species. Past timber harvest
activities have created a patchy landscape across the watershed, which has likely resulted in
larger wildlife home ranges than would be the case in unlogged habitats. Larger home ranges
affect the energy reserves of wildlife species as they must travel greater distances for their daily
needs. Many past timber activities left few snags on the landscape that could be utilized for
foraging, nesting/resting, or drumming sites. At the project level, snag dependent wildlife
populations could decline as a result of past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future
actions.
Forest-wide, by far the largest and most intense insect outbreak is in and around the American,
Crooked, and Red River watersheds. However, other areas of the forest have insects and
disease, and large insect outbreaks are possible in those areas. In addition, other areas of the
Forest have and will burn, thus creating snag habitat. Some wildlife species are capable of
responding quickly to favorable conditions created by large, intense fires and insect outbreaks,
and they can move several miles to take advantage of such opportunities.
The natural pattern of beetle outbreaks has been altered through silvicultural and fire
management practices. Silvicultural practices directed at maximizing wood production by
harvesting trees before they are susceptible to bark beetle attacks and salvage logging of
beetle-infested, fire-killed, and wind-killed trees reduced the occurrence of beetles in some
areas. Fire management policies have lengthened natural fire regimes and allowed more
frequent occurrences of beetles. However, the effects of most of these past actions and events
are imbedded in the existing condition described in the EIS. At the level of any given wildlife
species, impacts of the American and Crooked River proposal and other past, present, and
reasonably foreseeable future actions in and around these watersheds appear negligible.
US C8 US (S3 (&
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
3.12. SOCIO-ECONOMIC
INTRODUCTION
Idaho County has approximately 15,000 people living within its boundaries. While it is the
largest county in Idaho, much of the population is concentrated due to the large tracts of publicly
owned lands.
The Interior Columbia River Basin Ecosystem Management Project released a report that
examined the economic and social conditions of 543 communities in the Upper Columbia River
Basin (USDA FS - 1998i). The analysis looked at geographic isolation, community
specialization in different industries, and association with Forest Service and Bureau of Land
Management administered lands.
The study concluded that isolated towns such as Elk City are different from non-isolated'towns
in that a higher percent of the population may be more specialized in agriculture, wood
products, mining, or Federal Government, and have a high percent of Forest Service or Bureau
of Land Management lands within a 20-mile radius. Forest Service offices such as Elk City
Ranger Station contribute tangible economic and social benefits, through jobs, buildings,
utilities, and community support.
Timber dependent communities were defined as those in which primary forest products
manufacturing facilities provided 10 percent or more of the total employment in the community.
The scientific assessment for the Columbia River Basin project concluded that in the entire
Columbia River Basin 29 communities were considered timber dependent. Elk City is one of
these.
SCOPE AND METHOD OF THE ANALYSIS
The Nez Perce National Forest Plan Environmental Impact Statement (p. IV-26 and 27)
described the economic impacts of implementing the Forest Plan. The analysis for the
American and Crooked River Project incorporates the Forest Plan EIS Appendix B in its entirety
and specifically pages B-51 through B-142 that address the economic analysis process and
values placed on non-consumptive items such as recreation opportunities, community stability,
cultural resources, habitats, and populations. The economic analysis for this project will not
revisit the information presented in the Forest Plan and will focus only on those costs and
revenues associated with implementing any of the proposed alternatives in the project analysis
area. The purpose of the economic analysis presented here is to display revenues and costs
associated with each alternative for comparison purposes.
Economic conditions are constantly changing locally, regionally and nationally. Market prices
fluctuate widely. Current local timber market prices are considered to be up. Timber values
used in this assessment are based upon January 2005 delivered log (DL) prices as listed in the
Idaho Department of Lands Report for the Maggie Creek Area (IDL 1/2005). The values used
were from the following local mills:
• Bennett Forest Industries of Elk City,
• Three Rivers of Kamiah, and
• Clearwater Forest Industries of Kooskia.
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The full analysis is documented in the project file.
The direct impact of the action alternatives on local employment (see Table 3.xxx) was
assessed using an IMPLAN model. IMPLAN is an economic impact assessment modeling
system that allows the user to build economic models to estimate the impacts of economic
changes in their states, counties, or communities. The Forest Service uses IMPLAN to model
and estimate the regional/local economic impacts of such things as forest plan revision
alternatives, policy changes, and management decisions.
DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS
Long term and cumulative effects of individual projects on the overall social and economic
environment are generally difficult to quantify with accuracy and are beyond the scope of this
analysis.
LOCAL EMPLOYMENT
Local employment would be directly supported by all action alternatives and secondary
economic activity would be indirectly supported. Employment opportunities that may result from
project implementation include:
• Restoration of roads, watersheds, fish habitat, trails, and abandoned mines;
• Reforestation;
• Fuel reduction; and
• Production of forest products (including harvest, hauling, and milling);
Support business such as suppliers of fuel, food, repairs, lodging, etc., would also receive
economic benefit. Such benefits are classified as indirect economic benefits.
It is reasonable to assume contracting locally will generate local jobs and more dollars spent in
local communities. Conversely, there will be fewer local jobs and dollars spent locally when
contracts or resources are awarded or purchased non-locally.
TABLE 3.179 - DIRECT EMPLOYMENT EFFECTS
Project Type
Restoration/Reforestation
Hazardous Fuel Reduction
Forest Products
Total Jobs
AltB
32
10
121
163
AJtC
37
13
138
188
AltD
55
19
173
247
AltE
39
11
102
152
Additional watershed restoration projects incorporated into alternative D are anticipated to result
in 10 additional restoration jobs.
SAWLOG VALUE
Health of the lodgepole pine proposed for treatment affects the potential revenue generated by
each alternative and subsequently the amount of funding available to implement restoration
work. As discussed in this final environmental impact statement, lodgepole pine is dying due to
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
mountain pine beetle attack. The degree of mortality of this species has a direct impact on the
amount of green sawlog volume used in calculating available revenue in the following tables.
A portion of the total volume listed in each of the following economic alternative tables is
lodgepole pine. A summary of the total volume of lodgepole pine for each alternative is
displayed in the following table.
TABLE 3.180 - TOTAL VOLUME
Alternative
B
C
D
E
Total Volume (mmbf)
17.8
20.3
25.4
15.1
Lodgepole Pine
Volume (mmbf)
7.7
8.1
9.6
5.8
Percent of total
volume {%)
43
40
38
38
Sawlog value is based on the quality or merchantability of the harvested material. In the case of
lodgepole, the value dramatically decreases one year after the tree is assessed as dying
(needle color turning from healthy green color to yellow and red color). It is anticipated that one-
third of the lodgepole pine in the area is dying this year (2005), one-third will die next year, and
the remaining third will die the following year due to attacks by mountain pine beetle.
Timely treatment must occur if the dying lodgepole is to retain enough value to support removal.
As each year passes without harvest activity, more lodgepole will die and more value will be
lost. In addition, the issue of high fuel loading in the area will still exist.
Based on current delivered log prices1 and other factors2, the potential revenue available, and
therefore funds available to support restoration, are calculated to range from a high of $950,000
(Alternative D) to a low of $574,200 (Alternative E). Every year that harvest is delayed potential
revenues could be reduced across this range.
PROJECTED REVENUE AND COST OF IMPLEMENTATION
Tables 3.182 through 3.185 display estimated revenues and costs associated with each action
alternative. Table 3.181 provides definitions of items listed in tables 3.182 through 3.185.
1 $279 per MBF
2 Indications that one-third of the existing lodgepole pine volume is dying and will be dead next year.
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TABLE 3.181- DEFINITIONS
'TEM 1 DEFINITION
HARVEST ACTIVITIES
Delivered Log Price (mbf)
Roadside Salvage Delivered
Log Price (mbf)
Roadside Salvage w/ Lop and
Scatter (mbf)
Tractor Logging (mbf)
Cable/Skyline Logging (mbf)
Broadcast Burn Fuels (acre)
Underburn Fuels (acre)
Excavator Pile & Burn (acre)
Reforestation (acre)
Reforestation Exams (3) (acre)
Temp Road Construction & Oblit
(mile)
Road Reconstruct/Recondition
(mile)
Road Decommissioning (miles)
SUBTOTAL
Value paid by local sawmills for delivered logs. Averaged by species and value
Value 70percent of delivered log price for dead/dying delivered logs.
Cost of treating slash.
Cost of tractor logging including the felling, skidding, loading and hauling of logs
Cost of cable/skyline logging including felling, yarding, loading, and hauling of
logs.
Cost of burning logging slash.
Cost of burning logging slash.
Cost of machine piling logging slash and burning piles
Cost of planting seedlings to required stocking levels keeping existing species
composition in place.
Cost of examining planted acres for planting success. Required for three years
Cost of constructing and obliterating temporary roads.
Cost of reconstructing or reconditioning roads used to support timber harvest and
hauling activities.
Cost of decommissioning roads used by timber sale
Shows total revenue generated calculated by delivered log prices as well as the
logging costs and other associated required work. Every cost included in this
subtotal is required to support the timber harvest activities
RESTORATION ACTIVITIES
Road Decommissioning (miles)
Watershed Road Improvements
(mile)
Watershed Road Improvement
(sites)
Stream Crossing Improvement
(sites)
Instream Improvement (miles)
Rec and Trail Improvements
(miles)
Mine Site Reclamation (acres)
Soil Restoration (acres)
Access Change (vehicle use)
Access Change (road to trail -
mile)
Reforestation, nonessential
(acres)
SUBTOTAL
TOTALS
Cost of design and implementation to decommission roads
Cost (design and implementation) of improving road miles not required to support
timber harvest or haul activities.
Cost (design and implementation) of improving specific sites on roads.
Cost (design and implementation) of improving stream crossings to enhance fish
passage of reduce risk of failure
Cost (design and implementation) of doing instream improvement work
Cost (design and implementation) of improving recreation sites and trails.
Cost (design and implementation) of reclaiming mining sites
Cost (design and implementation) of restoring soil properties
Cost (design and implementation) of decommissioning one-quarter mile of road to
prevent expansion of recreation site.
Cost (design and implementation) to convert road to motorized trail.
Cost of planting seedlings of species different than what is found on site.
Costs displayed are restoration activity costs or costs not required to support the
timber harvest activities.
Displays total costs of all activities and the potential total revenue generated
Each of the following tables displays work associated with implementation of Alternatives B-E
(action alternatives). The first half of each table displays the expected revenue and costs
associated with harvest activities. The second displays the type of restoration work, the amount
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
of work, and the cost of doing the work. Further reference for this information can be found in
Appendix D, Table D-1.
Note: The yarding costs per mbf displayed below are those incurred stump-to-mill.
ALTERNATIVE B
TABLE 3.182 - ALTERNATIVE B
,.„_, 1 Cost/Unit 1 ,,_,»_ 1 Costs 1 Revenue
'tem 1 ($) 1 Un'tS 1 ($) I <$)
HARVEST ACTIVITIES
Delivered Log Price (mbf)
Roadside Slvg Delivered Log Price (mbf)
Roadside Slvg. w/ Lop & Scatter (mbf)
Tractor Logging (mbf)
Cable/Skyline Logging (mbf)
Broadcast Burn Fuels (acre)
Underburn Fuels (acre)
Excavator Pile & Burn (acre)
Reforestation (acre)
Reforestation Exams (3) (acre)
Temp Road Construction & Oblit (mile)
Road Reconstruct/Recondition (mile)
Road Decommissioning (miles)
SUBTOTAL
$340
238
160
140
175
480
491
278
490
48
13,000
91,958
9,978
17,800
558
558
9,725
8,075
437
504
1,142
521
1,760
8.0
75.0
4.5
$89,280
1,361,500
1,413,125
209,760
247,464
317,476
255,290
84,480
104,000
146,872
44,901
$4,274,148
$6,052,000
132,804
$6,184,804
RESTORATION ACTIVITIES
Road Decommissioning (miles)
Watershed Road Improvements (mile)
Watershed Road Improvement (sites)
Stream Crossing Improvement (sites)
Instream Improvement (miles)
Rec & Trail Improvements (miles)
Rec & Trail Improvements (acres)
Mine Site Reclamation (acres)
Soil Restoration (acres)
Access Change (vehicle use)
Access change (road to trail - mile)
Reforestation, nonessential (acres)
SUBTOTAL
TOTALS
$7,191
2,913
10,000
12,400
17,718
6,652
20,000
2,143
2,211
10,000
3,846
490
9.4
16
1
10
10.3
2.3
0.1
7
18.0
1
2.6
517
$67,597
46,608
10,000
124,000
182,500
15,300
2,000
15,000
39,798
10,000
10,000
253,330
$776,133
$5,050,179
$0
$6,184,804
Chapter 3
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
TABLE 3.183 - ALTERNATIVE C
Item I Cost/Unit 1 1 Costs 1 Revenue
1 ($) 1 UnitS 1 {$) 1 ($)
HARVEST ACTIVITIES
Delivered Log Price (mbf)
Roadside Slvg Delivered Log Price (mbf)
Roadside Slvg. w/ Lop & Scatter (mbf)
Tractor Logging (mbf)
Cable/Skyline Logging (mbf)
Broadcast Burn Fuels (acre)
Underburn Fuels (acre)
Excavator Pile & Burn (acre)
Reforestation (acre)
Reforestation Exams (3) (acre)
Temp Road Construction & Oblit (mile)
Road Reconstruct/Recondition (mile)
Road Decommissioning (miles)
SUBTOTAL
$340
238
160
140
175
480
491
278
490
48
13,000
2,309
10,000
20,300
546
546
10,490
9,810
539
530
1,198
566
1,698
14.3
80.3
5.9
$87,360
1,468,600
1,716,750
248,720
260,230
333,044
277,340
81,504
185,900
185,390
59,000
$4,913,838
RESTORATION ACTIVITIES
Road Decommissioning (miles)
Watershed Road Improvements (mile)
Watershed Road Improvement (sites)
Stream Crossing Improvement (sites)
Instream Improvement (miles)
Rec & Trail Improvements (miles)
Rec & Trail Improvements (acres)
Mine Site Reclamation (acres)
Soil Restoration (acres)
Access Change (vehicle use)
Access Change (road to trail - mile)
Reforestation, nonessential (acres)
SUBTOTAL
TOTALS
$7,605
3,500
3,667
12,400
20,045
6,652
6,420
2,143
2,573
10,000
3,846
490
11.4
16.6
3
10
11.1
2.3
8.1
7
26
1
2.6
568
$86,701
56,000
11,001
124,000
222,500
15,300
52,002
15,000
66,906
10,000
10,000
278,320
$947,730
$5,861,568
$6,902,000
129,948
$7,031,948
$0
$7,031,948
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
TABLE 3.184 - ALTERNATIVE D
i*am I Cost/Unit 1 .. ..„ 1 Costs 1 Revenue
ltem 1 <$) I Unlts I'm 1 ($>
HARVEST ACTIVITIES
Delivered Log Price (mbf)
Roadside Slvg Delivered Log Price (mbf)
Roadside Slvg. w/ Lop & Scatter (mbf)
Tractor Logging (mbf)
Cable/Skyline Logging (mbf)
Broadcast Burn Fuels (acre)
Underburn Fuels (acre)
Excavator Pile & Burn (acre)
Reforestation (acre)
Reforestation Exams (3) (acre)
Temp Road Construction & Oblit (mile)
Road Reconstruct/Recondition (mile)
Road Decommissioning (miles)
SUBTOTAL
$343
240
160
140
175
480
491
278
490
48
13,000
2,614
6,997
25,400
591
591
14,900
10,500
539
530
1,556
746
2,238
14.3
90.5
7.5
$94,560
$2,086,000
1,837,500
258,720
260,230
432,568
365,540
107,424
185,900
236,645
51,778
5,930,176
$8,712,200
141,840
8,854,040
RESTORATION ACTIVITIES
Road Decommissioning (miles)
Watershed Road Improvements (mile)
Watershed Road Improvement (sites)
Stream Crossing Improvement (sites)
Instream Improvement (miles)
Rec & Trail Improvements (miles)
Rec & Trail Improvements (acres)
Mine Site Reclamation (acres)
Soil Restoration (acres)
Access Change (vehicle use)
Access Change (road to trail - mile)
Reforestation, nonessential (acres)
SUBTOTAL
TOTALS
6,945
3,934
3,667
20,692
20,045
6,652
. 6,420
2,143
2,807
10,000
3,846
490
12.4
16.6
3
13
11.1
2.3
8.1
7
33
1
2.6
908
86,113
65,304
11,000
268,996
222,500
15,300
52,002
15,000
84,805
10,000
10,000
444,920
1 ,285,952
$7,216,128
$0
$8,854,040
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TABLE 3.185 - ALTERNATIVE E
Item I Co«WJ«lt I Unjts 1 Costs 1 Revenue
HARVEST ACTIVITIES
Delivered Log Price (mbf)
Roadside Slvg Delivered Log Price (mbf)
Roadside Slvg. w/ Lop & Scatter (mbf)
Tractor Logging (mbf)
Cable/Skyline Logging (mbf)
Broadcast Burn Fuels (acre)
Underburn Fuels (acre)
Excavator Pile & Burn (acre)
Reforestation (acre)
Reforestation Exams (3) (acre)
Temp Road Construction & Oblit (mile)
Road Reconstruct/Recondition (mile)
Road Decommissioning (miles)
SUBTOTAL
$335
235
160
140
175
480
491
278
490
48
13,000
2,032
6,997
15,100
542
542
7,960
7,140
311
441
929
420
1,260.
5.4
74.3
4.3
$86,720
1,114,400
1 ,249,500
149,280
216,531
258,262
205,800
60,480
70,200
150,970
43,090
$3,605,233
$5,058,500
$127,370
$5,184,870
RESTORATION ACTIVITIES
Road Decommissioning (miles)
Watershed Road Improvements (mile)
Watershed Road Improvement (sites)
Stream Crossing Improvement (sites)
Instream Improvement (miles)
Rec & Trail Improvements (miles)
Rec & Trail Improvements (acres)
Mine Site Reclamation (acres)
Soil Restoration (acres)
Access Change (vehicle use)
Access Change (road to trail - mile)
Reforestation, nonessential (acres)
SUBTOTAL
TOTALS
$6,943
4,594
3,667
28,941
50,479
5,826
6,420
2,778
2,448
10,000
3,846
490
. 32.7
24.6
3
34
14.6
4.6
8.1
9
57
1
2.6
421
$227,024
113,012
11,000
984,000
737,000
26,800
52,002
25,000
139,533
10,000
10,000
205,800
$2,541,178
$6,146,410
$0
$5,185,870
ADDITIONAL INDIRECT EFFECTS
Recreation-based services related to activities contribute to the economy. These include, but
are not limited to, hunting, fishing, backpacking, river floating, sightseeing, gathering of berries
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
and mushrooms, and firewood cutting. Studies indicate that big game hunting (primarily elk)
and fishing (primarily salmon and steelhead) provide or have the potential to provide a major
contribution to the local economy in and around Idaho County.
Current levels of recreation-based economic activity would not be appreciably affected by any of
the action alternatives in this proposal, with the possible exception of hunting and fishing. All of
the action alternatives would result in positive trends in elk habitat and anadromous fish habitat
potential, which in turn may result in an increase in this segment of the economy
ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE
Executive Order 12898 requires an analysis of the impacts of the proposed action and
alternatives to the proposed action on minority and low-income populations. The order is
designed in part "...to identify, prevent, and/or mitigate, to the greatest extent practicable,
disproportionately high and adverse human health or environmental effects of United States
Department of Agriculture programs and activities on minority and low income populations...".
None of the action alternatives are expected to negatively affect the civil rights of minorities,
American Indians, women, or any United States citizen. Subsistence activities would not have a
disproportionate impact on minorities or low-income individuals. The analysis area lies within
Nez Perce Tribal ceded lands. The effects to wildlife and plants utilized by tribal members
would be negligible, if not positive. No environmental health hazards are expected to result
from implementation of any alternative. This project should not disproportionately affect income
level.
C# CS 08 03 08 08
3.13. WILDERNESS, INVENTORIED ROADLESS AREAS, AND AREAS
WITH POSSIBLE UNROADED CHARACTERISTICS
WILDERNESS
There are no wilderness areas within the American Crooked River Project area. The closest
wilderness areas are the Selway-Bitterroot wilderness area, north-east of the project area; the
Frank Church River of No Return wilderness area, east of the project area; and the Gospel
Hump wilderness area, south-west of the project area. The areas are not affected by the project
and are not discussed further.
INVENTORIED ROADLESS AREAS
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT
The American Crooked River Project lies near two Inventoried Roadless Areas (IRAs). These
IRAs are described in the 1987 Nez Perce National Forest Plan Final Environmental Impact
Statement (USDA FS 1987c, Appendices Volume 1), which contains maps of the IRAs, a
description of each area and an evaluation of each IRA's wilderness capability. A brief
description of the two IRAs near the project area follows:
West Meadow Creek Roadless Area 1845C is located north and east of the project area (see
Map 11 A). The roadless area contains 107,512 acres, is the west side of the Meadow Creek
Drainage, and is a principal tributary of the Selway River, with a few drainages into the
American River a tributary of the South Fork of the Clearwater.
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The area tends to be densely vegetated on steep mostly east and north facing sloped
topography. Elevations range from about 1800 feet to 7,232 feet at Granite Peak. Pacific yew
is common and thick. The head of Meadow Creek is open which gives the creek its name.
Virtually all of the upper Meadow Creek Drainage burned in 1919. Dispersed recreation is for
the most part light with the greatest use occurring during hunting season, when use is high.
Recreational uses include hiking, hunting, fishing, backpacking, camping, horseback riding,
snowmobiling, and sightseeing along the Montana Road. One outfitter operates in the area.
The areas provide habitat for the wildlife species including mule deer, whitetail deer, black bear,
gray wolves, elk, bald eagles, Shira's moose, steelhead trout, and Chinook salmon. Meadow
Creek is one of the few streams left on the Forest with very excellent water quality and a
productive anadromous fishery. Other special features are Green Mountain Lookout, Horse
Point Lookout site, Meadow Creek cabin, old sheep driveways, evidence of glaciation in the
upper Meadow-Fourmile area, Meadow Creek and Anderson Butte National Recreation Trails,
and the Nez Perce Trail. There are no known unique or remarkable plants or habitats in the
areas. Livestock use the areas lightly along the northwestern boundary but no other areas have
been grazed since approximately 1995. However, effects from past sheep grazing can still be
identified in the Meadow Creek IRA. Stock driveways go almost straight down one side of a hill
and straight up the other side and are cleared to a width of 50 feet. Erosion has occurred on
this site despite reconstruction of many of the driveways into graded trails. Public interest in
making this IRA wilderness has been low, and is split between recommending it for wilderness
by environmental groups and non-wilderness by local publics. The wilderness assessment
found in the Forest Plan FEIS (USDA FS 1987c, Volume I) indicates the area is not appropriate
and valuable for wilderness and did not assign continued roadless management.
Dixie Summit-Nut Hill Roadless Area 1235 is located south of the project area (see Map
11B). This roadless area contains 11,943 acres. The area is divided by. a ridge, with the east
side of the ridge draining into Red River, a part of the Clearwater drainage, and the west side
running into Big Creek and then Crooked Creek, in the Salmon drainage.
The Dixie Summit-Nut Hill Roadless Area has some steep slopes, but much of the country is
relatively gently sloped. Elevations range from 5,400 feet to 7,100 feet at Moose Butte. A large
part of this area is a mountain meadow environment, which is grazed by both cattle and wildlife.
The rest of the area ranges from pure lodgepole pine stands on southern slopes at moderate
elevations to alpine fir and Engelmann spruce in draws and higher elevations. Traditional
recreation uses include fishing, hunting, camping, horseback riding, snowmobiling, and off-
highway vehicle use. Burpee road runs through the middle of this area. Trail 207 runs south
from Moose Butte to Burpee. There is a passable road from Badger Summit, in the extreme
northwest corner of the area to an old. One outfitter operates in this area. Wildlife species in
this area include elk, Shira's moose, deer, bear, cougar, and gray wolf, based on suitability of
habitat. The fish in Big Creek and tributaries are not anadromous, but those in Red River are.
There is a 1,015 acre Research Natural Area in Moose Meadow Creek, a tributary of Big Creek,
which is entirely within this Roadless Area. The IRA does not adjoin any existing wilderness
areas. There are no known threatened or endangered plant species in the area; however, it
does contain a few species that are uncommon in Idaho. The area has not had active livestock
use since the 1990s. The area has approximately 53 mining claims in the area, and evidence of
past mining is evident in the area. There is no public desire to make this area a wilderness and
the wilderness assessment found in the Forest Plan FEIS (USDA FS 1987c, Volume I) indicates
the area is not appropriate and valuable for wilderness and was not assigned continued
roadless management. Interests center on grazing, mining, and semi-primitive recreation. The
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
area has unique ecological features that are not duplicated in nearby wilderness; however,
these values have been protected for scientific purposes through administrative classification of
a Research Natural Area.
Both of the areas are little changed from the conditions described in the 1987 Forest Plan
(USDAFS, 1987a).
ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES
DIRECT EFFECTS
The proposed action does not enter or occur in either of the adjacent inventoried roadless
areas. There are no direct effects to inventoried roadless areas.
INDIRECT EFFECTS
The indirect effects vary by roadless area.
WEST MEADOW CREEK ROADLESS AREA 1845C
Most of the proposed treatment units in this project are separated from the Roadless Area by
existing roads. The values in the roadless area most at risk are those associated with apparent
naturalness, remoteness, solitude, and semi-primitive recreation. The sights and sounds of
logging would diminish each of these for the period of logging and for some time after logging.
It is important, however, to put this into proper perspective. First, there are not trails that lead
people into the portion of the roadless area where impacts would be seen or felt. Second, less
than one percent of the roadless area is immediately adjacent to the project area. In 99 percent
of the West Meadow Creek roadless area, the American-Crooked River Project is out of sight
and inaudible and would have little impact on remoteness. Only one unit in the American River
portion of the project adjoins the West Meadow Creek Roadless Area, which will be visible from
within the IRA. Other near by units are separated from the IRA by topography that would not
make them visible from within the IRA. Finally, the view from the area is not currently pristine or
near naturally appearing due to past harvest activity, road building, and past mining activities.
The proposed action would not markedly diminish the natural appearing nature of the IRA.
Based on this analysis, water quality would not be diminished by the project. There would be
minimal impacts of smoke from burning on air quality because prevailing winds would blow
smoke away from the roadless area. Wildlife and TES species would be little impacted (see
wildlife section); additional or new motorized access is not an issue. Non-motorized primitive or
semi-primitive recreation is not compromised by the project. The project does not create new
access into the roadless area or change the recreation experience.
DIXIE SUMMIT-NUT HILL ROADLESS AREA 1235
The nearest unit to IRA 1235 is approximately one half mile away and may be visible from within
the IRA. Other units are further away and although they may be visible from high points within
the IRA, other disturbance is also visible within the view shed from past activities. The values in
the roadless area most at risk are those associated with apparent naturalness, remoteness,
solitude, and semi-primitive recreation. The sights and sounds of logging would diminish each
of these for the period of logging and for some time after logging. However, the view from the
area is not currently pristine or near naturally appearing due to past harvest activity, mining, and
road building. The proposed action would not markedly diminish the natural appearing nature of
the IRA.
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
UNROADED ANALYSIS
INTRODUCTION
In addition to an analysis of the impacts of the project on Inventoried Roadless Areas (IRAs) as
described above, the Forest Service has also analyzed the impacts of the project on unroaded
lands.
For the purposes of this analysis, the Forest Service considered all areas without the presence
of classified roads and outside existing inventoried roadless areas as unroaded lands. Maps
11A and 11B provide the reader a view of the unroaded areas. The map shows the project
area, in which the treatment is proposed, the existing classified roads, and the adjacent
Inventoried Roadless Areas.
This unroaded analysis will consider the unique values of the unroaded area in the context of
five important resource values:
Natural Integrity is the extent to which long-term ecological processes are intact and operating.
Apparent Naturalness means the environment looks natural to most people.
Remoteness is the perceived condition of being secluded, inaccessible, and out of the way,
and Solitude is a personal, subjective value defined as the isolation from the sights sounds,
and presence of others and the development of man.
Special Features are unique geological, biological, ecological, and cultural or scenic features,
and Special Places are those areas that cause one to visit for pleasure or their livelihood.
Manageability and Boundaries consider our ability to manage a roadless area to meet the
minimum size criteria (5,000 acres) for wilderness. Additionally, the ability to allow fire to play a
more natural role without threatening residential areas or communities and the ability to manage
for non-motorized access from access points or private property were also considered in this
category.
EXISTING CONDITION
The unroaded lands within the project area are easiest to describe and evaluate if they are
viewed as geographic areas. The table below provides a summary of the number of acres that
would be affected by the proposed action and alternatives and is followed by a description of
each unroaded area.
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
TABLE 3.186 - SUMMARY OF ACRES AFFECTED BY THE PROPOSED ACTIONI
re
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^1
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o
c
Crooked- 1
American- 1
la
Ib
American-2
2a
2b
2c
2d
2e
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2*
|£
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§>.£.
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1,585
144
19
1,748
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5 <
* ts
10 »«*
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3,809
1,298
5,665
10,77
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< 01
5,394
1,442
877
565
5,684
4,968
148
28
306
236
12,52
0
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"O
JJ "3
«S3
150
148
99
49
28
4
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0
326
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5,244
1,294
778
516
5,658
4,964
148
5
306
236
12,19
6
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<%
182
148
99
49
231
108
0
23
45
54
561
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-------
American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
Apparent naturalness again depends on scale. If a visitor were to focus on the immediate
vicinity while in the unroaded area, it would seem natural as described in the preceding
paragraph, however if the visitor looked at the question of naturalness from a landscape
perspective, the view would be different. The presence of nearby logging along the Red
Horse Ridge, near by privately owned clear cut lands, and the town of Elk City (1-2 miles
away) make it less natural appearing.
Remoteness and solitude are compromised by the proximity to the town of Elk City, 1-2
miles away, and the associated roads into the town.
Special features and special places are not present from the standpoint of geological,
resources. However, from a biological standpoint the Kirks Fork watershed has a high fish
habitat value and contributes to the anadromous fish productivity. The area is unique from
the standpoint of cultural or historic resources. Historically, mining occurred in AM-1a.
Additionally, the Nez Perce trail runs along the southern boundary of AM-1a in the vicinity
of Red Horse Ridge (see the heritage section for additional information).
Manageability and Boundaries: The unroaded area by itself is 877 acres and it is
adjacent to another 565 acres in AM-1b. These two areas are adjacent to the 107,512
acre West Meadow Creek IRA. The proximity to roads and past harvest units could make
the area difficult to manage for wilderness, but there are not boundary issues with this
area.
American - 1b (AM-1b) (See Map 11A) also lies almost completely within the Elk City Wildland
Urban Interface. It is north of AM-1a and is comprised 565 acres within two very small
watersheds, Box Sing Creek and Baboon Creek. The two creeks drain into American River to
the southwest. Acres to be treated within the unroaded area range from zero to forty-nine acres
depending on the alternative.
Natural integrity has been modified by past timber harvest and roads. The viewshed is
comprised of highly modified landscapes. The lodgepole pine stands are uniformly fully
stocked with trees and have less open grass lands interspersed with the lodgepole pine
than might be expected under a more natural fire frequency. Non-native plants and
invasives are uncommon in the area. This area currently has livestock use.
Apparent naturalness again depends on scale. If a visitor were to focus on the immediate
vicinity while in the unroaded area, it would seem natural as described in the preceding
paragraph, however if the visitor looked at the question of naturalness from a landscape
perspective, the view would be different. The presence of nearby logging within and
adjacent to the northern boundary of the area defined by road 1809, and the town of Elk
City (1-2 miles away) make it less natural appearing.
Remoteness and solitude are compromised by the proximity to the town of Elk City, 1-2
miles away, and the associated roads into the town and the 1809 road to the north
Special features and special places are not present from the standpoint of geological,
resources. However, from a biological standpoint the Kirks Fork watershed has a high fish
habitat value and contributes to the anadromous fish productivity. The area is not unique
from the standpoint of known cultural or historic resources.
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
Manageability and Boundaries: The unroaded area by itself is 877 acres and it is
adjacent to another 565 acres in AM-1 a adjacent to the 107,512 acre West Meadow Creek
IRA. These two areas are within the Wildland Urban Interface for the Elk City community
and management emphasis is protection of life and property. Additionally, the proximity to
roads and past harvest units could make the area difficult to manage for wilderness, but
there are not boundary issues with this area.
AMERICAN-2 is west of the West Meadow Creek Inventoried Roadless Area (IRA) 1845C.
This unroaded area has been subdivided along the subwatershed boundaries to better explain
the affects to important subwatersheds. This unroaded area is comprised of 5,684 acres with
5,665 acres within the planning area.
American - 2a (AM-2a) (See Map 11A) is west of the West Meadow Creek IRA 1845C and is
comprised of 4,969 acres within the East Fork American River watershed. The southwestern
most portion of this unroaded area lies within the Elk City community protection area (Wildland-
urban interface) where the management emphasis is protection of life and property from
potentially catastrophic effects of wildfire. Acres to be treated within the unroaded area range
from zero to 109 acres depending on the alternative.
Natural integrity is relatively high in this area, although the mixed conifer stands are
stocked higher with trees and have less shrub and open grass lands than might be
expected under a more natural fire frequency. Non-native plants and invasives are
uncommon in the area. This area is not used by livestock. There is a high degree of
Natural Integrity in this area. The watershed has high importance for anadromous fish
habitat.
Apparent Naturalness is high except on the one and one half mile southwestern boundary
along the Elk City Township line that separates the National Forest lands from the BLM
and private lands within the township that have been altered from their natural appearance.
Remoteness and Solitude is increased as you get farther from the Elk City Township,
along the southwestern portion of the area. As indicated above, within the one and one
half miles of the Elk City Township line the feeling of solitude has been compromised.
Special features and special places are not present from the standpoint of geological,
resources. However, from a biological standpoint the East Fork of the American River has
a high fish habitat value and contributes to the anadromous fish productivity. The area is
not unique from the standpoint of known cultural or historic resources.
Manageability and Boundaries The unroaded area by itself is 4968 acres adjacent to the
107,512 acre West Meadow Creek IRA. The proximity to roads and past harvest units
could make the area difficult to manage for wilderness within the one and one half miles
along the Elk City Township, which comprises the southwestern boundary. Otherwise
there are no boundary issues with this area.
American - 2b (AM-2b) (See Map 11 A) is a small unroaded area south of AM-2a and is
comprised of approximate 148 acres that extend out of the East Fork American River into
Whittaker Creek. The area is bounded on the north by Flatiron Ridge, which blocks the view
other unroaded areas and the IRA. This area is immediately adjacent to roads and past timber
harvest units. Acres to be treated within the unroaded area range from zero to forty acres
depending on the alternative
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
Natural integrity has been modified by past timber harvest and roads. The viewshed is
comprised of highly modified landscapes. The mixed conifer stands are stocked higher with
trees and have less shrub and open grass lands than might be expected under a more
natural fire frequency. Non-native plants and invasives are uncommon in the area. This
area is not used by livestock.
Apparent Naturalness depends on scale. Although small portions of the unroaded area
might seem natural, the proximity to Forest roads nearby logging, and development within
the Elk City Township have decreased apparent naturalness.
Remoteness and Solitude is decreased due to the proximity of roads and past harvest
units in and adjacent to the unroaded area.
Special features and special places are not present from the standpoint of geological,
biological, or ecological reasons. The area is relatively common and like much of the
forested area in north-central Idaho. The area is not unique from the standpoint of known
cultural or historic resources.
Manageability and Boundaries: The unroaded area by itself is 148 acres separated from
the West Meadow Creek IRA 1845C by the unroaded area AM-2a that is 4968. Flatiron
Ridge separates the two unroaded areas. The proximity to roads and past harvest units
could make the area difficult to manage for wilderness. Otherwise there are no boundary
issues with this area.
American - 2c (AM-2c) (See Map 11A) is 28 acres east of AM-2b and south of AM-2a. The
area is within one quarter mile of the 1810 road, which runs along the southern edge of this
unroaded area. This is an extension out of the East Fork American River into Kirks Fork Creek.
The area is also adjacent to past timber harvest units. Acres to be treated within this
subdivision of the AM-2 unroaded area range from one to twenty-three acres depending on the
alternative.
Natural integrity has been modified by past timber harvest and roads. The viewshed is
comprised of highly modified landscapes. The mixed conifer stands are stocked higher
with trees and have less shrub and open grass lands than might be expected under a more
natural fire frequency. Non-native plants and invasives are uncommon in the area. The
Flint Creek watershed has a moderate fish habitat value and contributes to the integrity of
this watershed. This area is not used by livestock.
Apparent Naturalness depends on scale. Although small portions of the unroaded area
might seem natural, the proximity to Forest roads and nearby logging have decreased
apparent naturalness.
Remoteness and Solitude is decreased due to the proximity of roads and past harvest
units in and adjacent to the unroaded area.
Special features and special places are not present from the standpoint of geological,
resources. However, from a biological standpoint Flint Creek has a moderate fish habitat
value and contributes to the anadromous fish productivity. The area is not unique from the
standpoint of known cultural or historic resources.
Manageability and Boundaries: The unroaded area is 28 acres and separated from the
West Meadow Creek IRA 1845C by the 1810 road. The area abuts the 4968 acre AM-2a
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unroaded area, but this is still less than the 5000 acre minimum for wilderness. Regardless
of size, the proximity to roads and past harvest units could make the area difficult to
manage for wilderness
American - 2d (AM-2d) (See Map 11 A) consists of 306 acres on the western lobe of AM-2a,
and encompasses a small portion of the Flint Creek. Three separate watersheds converge near
this unroaded area. The area has relatively high levels of past development in the form of roads
and timber harvest. It is close to the major road system that provides access to the area. The
southwestern most portion of this unroaded area lies within the Elk City township line and the
community protection consideration (Wildland-urban interface) where the management
emphasis is protection of life and property from potentially catastrophic effects of wildfire for the
Ericson Ridge residential area. Acres to be treated within the unroaded area range from zero to
forty-five acres depending on the alternative
Natural integrity has been modified by past timber harvest and roads. The viewshed is
comprised of highly modified landscapes. The mixed conifer stands are stocked higher
with trees and have less shrub and open grass lands than might be expected under a more
natural fire frequency. Non-native plants and invasives are uncommon in the area but may
occur along the southern border of the area where previous disturbance has occurred.
This area is not used by livestock.
Apparent Naturalness depends on scale. Although small portions of the unroaded area
might seem, natural, the proximity to Forest roads nearby logging, and development within
the Elk City Township has decreased apparent naturalness.
Remoteness and Solitude is decreased due to the proximity of roads and development
within the Elk City Township.
Special features and special places are not present from the standpoint of geological,
biological, or ecological reasons. The area is relatively common and like much of the
forested area in north-central Idaho. The area is not unique from the standpoint of known
cultural or historic resources.
Manageability and Boundaries: The unroaded area is 306 acres and is separated from
the West Meadow Creek IRA 1845C by the 4968 acre AM-2a unroaded area. The
community protection emphasis, proximity to roads, past harvest units, the Elk City
Township boundary, and development would make the area difficult to manage for
wilderness. The complex topographic features involved with the confluence of the three
separate watersheds make boundary management more complex.
American - 2e (AM-2e) (See Map 11 A) consists of 236 acres on the western lobe of AM-2a,
and encompasses a small portion of the American River. The area has relatively high levels of
past development in the form of roads and timber harvest. It is close to the major road system
that provides access to the area. The all but a tiny sliver of the unroaded area lies within the Elk
City community protection area (Wildland-urban interface) where the management emphasis is
protection of life and property from potentially catastrophic effects of wildfire. Acres to be
treated within the unroaded area range from zero to 102 acres depending on the alternative
Natural integrity has been modified by past timber harvest and roads. The viewshed is
comprised of highly modified landscapes. The lodgepole pine stands are uniformly fully
stocked with trees and have less open grass lands interspersed with the lodgepole pine
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
than might be expected under a more natural fire frequency. Non-native plants and
invasives are uncommon in the area but may occur along the southern border of the area
where previous disturbance has occurred. This area is not used by livestock.
Apparent Naturalness depends on scale. Although small portions of the unroaded area
might seem natural, the proximity to Forest roads nearby logging, and development within
the Elk City Township has decreased apparent naturalness.
Remoteness and Solitude is decreased due to the proximity of roads and development
within the Elk City Township.
Special features and special places are not present from the standpoint of geological,
biological, or ecological reasons. The area is relatively common and like much of the
forested area in north-central Idaho. The area is not unique from the standpoint of known
cultural or historic resources.
Manageability and Boundaries: The unroaded area is 236 acres and is separated from
the West Meadow Creek IRA 1845C by unroaded are AM-2d and AM-2a. The community
protection emphasis, proximity of roads, past harvest units, the Elk City Township
boundary, and development would make the area difficult to manage for wilderness. The
complex topographic features involved with the confluence of the three separate
watersheds make boundary management more complex.
Crooked - 1. (CR-1) (See Map 11B) is just north of the Dixie Summit-Nut Hill Inventoried
Roadless Area 1235 and consists of 5,394 acres, with 3,809 acres within the planning area.
Acres to be treated within the unroaded area range from one to 204 acres depending on the
alternative. To the north of CR-1 there are highly modified landscapes. All viewsheds are
comprised of highly modified landscapes in Crooked River and Red River and limited
opportunity to observe the Gospel Hump Wilderness (6-10 miles away). The natural integrity
that does exist in the areas is associated with the ridge tops. These are broad and densely
forested and break into 15-20 small upper tributaries to Crooked River and Red River. There is
no whole watershed integrity associated with CR-1.
The Resource values of CR-1 could be described as follows:
Natural integrity has been modified by past timber harvest and roads. The viewshed is
comprised of highly modified landscapes. The lodgepole pine stands are uniformly fully
stocked with trees and have less open grass lands interspersed with the lodgepole pine
than might be expected under a more natural fire frequency. Non-native plants and
invasives are uncommon in the area. This area is not used by livestock.
Apparent naturalness depends on scale. If a visitor were to focus on the immediate
vicinity while in the unroaded area, it would seem natural as described in the preceding
paragraph, however if the visitor looked at the question of naturalness from a landscape
perspective, the view would be different. The Forest road system and the presence of
nearby logging, and mining would decrease this perception of apparent naturalness. The
portion of the unroaded area closer to the IRA is most natural appearing and the area
closer to the roads is least natural appearing.
Remoteness and solitude are compromised in the unroaded area by the presence of the
Forest road system. In much of the unroaded area one can hear the sounds on the
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
vehicles and in some areas, one can see the road and the traffic on the road. One does not
have the feeling of remoteness or solitude in the lower portion of the unroaded area. The
impact of the road is somewhat lessened in certain areas because of topography.
Special features and special places are not present from the standpoint of geological,
biological, or ecological reasons. The area is relatively common and like much of the
forested area in north-central Idaho. The area is not unique from the standpoint of known
cultural or historic resources.
Manageability and Boundaries: The unroaded area by itself is over 5,000 acres and it is
adjacent to a nearly 12,000 acre IRA. The proximity to roads and past harvest units could
make the area difficult to manage for wilderness, but there are no boundary issues with this
area, other than the boundaries have little relationship to natural landscape features.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES
TREATMENT UNITS IN RELATION TO UNROADED LANDS
The table below shows the proposed number of treatment acres for each unroaded area by
alternative and the number of miles of temporary road that is associated with each alternative.
TABLE 3.187 - NUMBER OF TREATMENT ACRES FOR EACH UNROADED AREA BY ALTERNATIVE
n
2
•o
0)
•o
IB
2
c
AM-1a
AM-1b
AM-2a
AM-2b
AM-2c
AM-2d
AM-2e
CR-1
Total
AltB
1 «
99.39
48.98
4.1
0
23.47
0
d
149.83
325.77
•52-0
ill
i * >•
0.72
0.47
0
0
0
0
0
0.58
1.77
AltC
'-.freaied;.;;.'
^•^Acrelif!'
99.39
48.98
108.47
0
23.83
44.67
53.9
181.69
560.93
W
i * >
0.72
0.47
0.99
0
0.07
0.86
1.22
1.17
5.50
AltD
||TreatedM;':<;
jjSAcrfesWK'.
99.39
48.98
108.52
0.32
23.98
44.67
102.01
203.96
631.83
15 1*8
£ jW ^
0.72
0.47
0.99
0
0.07
0.86
1.22
1.17
5.50
AltE
*m <0
& 0)
m o
4.04
0.06
0
0
0.84
0
0
1
5.94
&.
— O (B
« ^5
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS
In an effort to avoid redundancy, if the impacts are the same between alternatives for an
individual unroaded area they are discussed in the first alternative and other alternatives refer
back to the alternative where they were first discussed. All roads constructed by this project are
temporary roads that will be obliterated upon completion of this action.
Chapter 3
Page 443
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
ALTERNATIVE A (No ACTION)
Alternative A, the 'no action' alternative, would not impact the unroaded lands described in this
section, since no treatment would occur.
ALTERNATIVE B
Alternative B would treat 150 acres in unroaded lands adjacent to Dixie Summit-Nut Hill
Roadless Area IRA 1235 and 176 acres in unroaded lands adjacent to West Meadow Creek IRA
1845C. Most of the 326 acres are separated from the IRA by topography, existing roads, or
past harvest units. Additionally, access into the area would be facilitated by the construction of
short segments of temporary road in the unroaded areas ranging from % to 1/2 mile in length for
a total of approximately 1 % miles.
AM-1a: There are approximately 100 acres of proposed treatment in AM-1a Proposed
treatment would be along the 9832A road. Approximately 3/4 miles of temporary road into the
unroaded area is proposed under this alternative. The temporary road will be obliterated upon
completion of the proposed action. There will be impacts on the unroaded characteristics of this
area in the treatment areas however, the impacts are somewhat reduce due to proposed activity
being along existing roads and the previous activities within this area. Additionally the proposed
activities are consistent with the community protection of the Elk City town. Proposed treatment
may have an impact on the refuge aspect of fish habitat, which is a special feature of this
unroaded area, in the Kirks Fork watershed. For further discussion of effects to fish see the
Fish section in Chapter 3. There will be 1,294 acres out of the 1,442 acres of this unroaded
area that will not be changed.
AM-1b: There are approximately 49 acres of proposed treatment in area AM-1b. Proposed
treatment would be off the 1809 road on a 1/2 mile piece of temporary road that will be
obliterated upon completion of the proposed action. There will be impacts on the unroaded
characteristics of this area in the treatment areas however, the impacts are somewhat reduce
due to proposed activity being along existing roads and the previous activities within this area.
Additionally the proposed activities are consistent with the community protection of the town of
Elk City. There will be 516 acres out of the 565 acres of this unroaded area that will not be
changed.
AM-2a: There area approximately 4 acres of proposed treatment in area AM-2a. This area has
unroaded characteristics that are highly intact. The four acres proposed in this alternative are
off the 1810 road. This alternative would only minimally affect the unroaded character of this
area due to the minimal size and it being along the existing road. The treatment does not
detract from the rest of the unroaded area. Fish habitat, which is a special feature of this
unroaded area, will not be impacted by the proposed action in the East Fork of the American
River (see Fish section in Chapter 3). There will be 4,964 acres out of the 4,968 acres of this
unroaded area that will not be changed.
AM-2b: There are no acres proposed in AM-2b under this alternative.
AM-2c: There area approximately 4 acres of proposed treatment in area AM-2a. This area has
unroaded characteristics that are highly intact. The four acres proposed in this alternative are
off the 1810 road. This alternative would only minimally affect the unroaded character of this
area due to the minimal size and it being along the existing road. The treatment does not
detract from the rest of the unroaded area. Proposed treatment may have an impact on the
Chapter 3
Page 444
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
refuge aspect of fish habitat, which is a special feature of this unroaded area, in the Flint Creek
watershed.. There will be 4,964 acres out of the 4,968 acres of this unroaded area that will not
be changed.
AM-2d: There are no acres proposed in AM-2d under this alternative.
AM-2e: There are no acres proposed in AM-2e under this alternative.
CR-1: There are approximately 150 acres proposed in CR-1 under this alternative. Proposed
treatment is along the 9839 road, the 1803 road, and some small areas (less than three acres)
outside the unroaded area that cross the boundary into the unroaded area. Approximately 1/2
mile of temporary road into the unroaded area is proposed under this alternative, and it will be
obliterated upon completion of the proposed action. The proposed activity would only minimally
decrease the unroaded character due to the action being along the boundary and along existing
roads and previous disturbance. There will be 5,244 acres out of the 5,394 acres of this
unroaded area that will not be changed.
ALTERNATIVE C
Alternative C would treat 182 acres in unroaded lands adjacent to Dixie Summit-Nut Hill
Roadless Area IRA 1235 and 379 acres in unroaded lands adjacent to West Meadow Creek IRA
1845C. Most of the 561 acres are separated from the IRA by topography, existing roads, or
past harvest units. Additionally, access into the area would be facilitated by the construction of
short segments of temporary road in the unroaded areas ranging from % to 1 mile in length for a
total of approximately 5 1/2 miles.
AM-1a: Same as Alternative B
AM-1b: Same as Alternative B
AM-2a: There area approximately 108 acres of proposed treatment in area AM-2a. This area
has unroaded characteristics that are highly intact. All but twenty acres proposed in this
alternative are off the 1810 road in the southern portion of the unroaded area on % miles of
temporary road that would be obliterated upon completion of the proposed action. The other 20
acres are on the extreme western boundary on an approximately 1 mile long temporary road off
the 9812F1 road. Only % mile of this temporary road would be within this unroaded area. The
rest of the temporary road is within the AM-2d area. This alternative would only effect the
unroaded character of this area, but is somewhat reduced due to proposed activities being
limited to the extreme boundaries and along the existing roads. Fish habitat, which is a special
feature of this unroaded area, will not be impacted by the proposed action in the East Fork of
the American River. There will be 4,860 acres out of the 4,968 acres of this unroaded area that
will not be changed.
AM-2b: There are no acres proposed in AM-2b under this alternative.
AM-2c: Same as Alternative B
AM-2d: There are 45 acres of proposed treatment in AM-2d. Proposed treatment is off the
9812F1 and the 9812A roads. Approximately 1 mile of temporary road will be constructed from
the 9812F1 road but only 1/2 mile is within AM-2d. % mile is within AM-2e and 1/4 mile in AM-2a.
Approximately % mile of temporary road will be constructed off the 9812A road. All Temporary
roads will be obliterated upon completion of the proposed action. This area has not retained
Chapter 3
Page 445
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
high unroaded characteristics due to past activities in the area and is within the community
protection area for the Ericson Ridge Subdivision within the Elk City Township. Proposed
treatment may have an impact on the refuge aspect of fish habitat, which is a special feature of
this unroaded area, in the Kirks Fork watershed. For further discussion of effects to fish see the
Fish section in Chapter 3. There will be additional impacts to the unroaded characteristics due
to the proposed action, but this is somewhat reduced due to previous disturbances in the area.
Additionally the proposed activities are consistent with the community protection within the Elk
City Township. There will be 261 acres of the 306 acres of this unroaded area that will not be
changed.
AM-2e: There are 54 acres of proposed treatment in AM-2e. Proposed treatment is off the
9812F and 9812F1 roads. Approximately 1 mile of temporary road will be constructed from
9812F and 1 mile of temporary road will be constructed from 9812F1, but only Vi mile will be
within AM-2e the remainder is within AM-2d and AM-2a. All temporary roads will be obliterated
upon completion of the proposed action. This area has not retained high unroaded
characteristics due to past activities in the area and is within the community protection area for
the Ericson Ridge Subdivision within the Elk City Township. There will be additional impacts to
the unroaded characteristics due to this activity; however 182 acres of the 236 acre unroaded
area will not be changed.
CR-1: There are approximately 182 acres proposed in CR-1 under this alternative. Proposed
treatment is along the 9839 road, the 1803 road, and some small areas (less than three acres)
outside the unroaded area that cross the boundary into the unroaded area. Approximately 1
mile of temporary road into the unroaded area is proposed under this alternative, and it will be
obliterated upon completion of the proposed action. The proposed activity would decrease the
unroaded character in this area, but this is somewhat reduced due to the action being along the
boundary and along existing toads and previous disturbance. There will be 5,212 acres out of
the 5,394 acres of this unroaded area that will not be changed.
ALTERNATIVES D
Alternative D and F would treat 204 acres in unroaded lands adjacent to Dixie Summit-Nut Hill
Roadless Area IRA 1235 and 427 acres in unroaded lands adjacent to West Meadow Creek IRA
1845C. Most of the 631 acres are separated from the IRA by topography, existing roads, or
past harvest units. Additionally, access into the area would be facilitated by the construction of
short segments of temporary road in the unroaded areas ranging from % to one mile in length
for a total of approximately 5 1/2 miles.
AM-1a: Same as Alternative B
AM-1b: Same as Alternative B
AM-2a: Same as Alternative C
AM-2b: There is less than 1/3 acres of proposed treatment in AM-2b. The small area is part of
a unit outside the unroaded area that barely crosses over into the AM-2b unroaded area. This
activity will reduced the unroaded character of this area minimally due to previous disturbance in
the area, and the minimal size of the proposed activity. Of the 148 acres in this unroaded area,
less than one acre will be affected.
AM-2c: Same as Alternative B.
Chapter 3
Page 446
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
AM-2d: Same as Alternative C.
AM-2e: There are 102 acres of proposed treatment in AM-2e. Proposed treatment is off the
9812F and 9812F1 roads. Approximately 1 mile of temporary road will be constructed from
9812F and 1 mile of temporary road will be constructed from 9812F1, but only % mile will be
within AM-2e the remainder is within AM-2d and AM-2a. All temporary roads will be obliterated
upon completion of the proposed action. This area has not retained high unroaded
characteristics due to past activities in the area and is within the community protection area for
the Ericson Ridge Subdivision within the Elk City Township. There will be additional impacts to
the unroaded characteristics due to this activity; however 134 acres of the 236 acre unroaded
area will not be changed.
CR-1: There are approximately 204 acres proposed in CR-1 under this alternative. Proposed
treatment is along the 9839 road, the 1803 road, and some small areas (less than three acres)
outside the unroaded area that cross the boundary into the unroaded area. Approximately 1
mile of temporary road into the unroaded area is proposed under this alternative, and it will be
obliterated upon completion of the proposed action. The proposed activity would decrease the
unroaded character in this area, but this is somewhat reduced due to the action being along the
boundary and along existing roads and previous disturbance. There will be 5,190 acres out of
the 5,394 acres of this unroaded area that will not be changed.
ALTERNATIVE E
Alternative E only proposed a total of approximately six acres in unroaded areas. This minimal
amount of proposed treatment in the unroaded areas will not change the overall existing
unroaded characteristic the rest of the unroaded areas. No temporary roads are proposed in
the unroaded areas under this alternative.
AM-1a: There area four acres of proposed treatment in the AM-1a area along the 9832 road.
This area does not have highly intact unroaded characteristics and is adjacent to the road.
Proposed treatment may have an impact on the refuge aspect of fish habitat, which is a special
feature of this unroaded area, in the Kirks Fork watershed.
OOAM-lb: There is less than 1/10th acre of proposed treatment in AM-1b. This is only a sliver of
a treatment unit that crosses into the unroaded area.
AM-2c: There is less than one acre of proposed treatment in AM-2c. This is along the 1810
roads. Proposed treatment may have an impact on the refuge aspect of fish habitat, which is a
special feature of this unroaded area, in the Flint Creek watershed.
CR-1: There is one acre of proposed treatment in CR-1. The proposed treatment will be next
to the 1803 road.
Effects disclosed here relate solely to the effects of proposed activities on the unroaded
character of the affected lands. Chapter 3 contains detailed narrative and tabular information to
understand the effects of the alternatives on other resources, including soil, water, air, plant and
animal communities, and threatened, endangered, or sensitive species.
Chapter 3
Page 447
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American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
FOREST PLAN COMPLIANCE
The following Forest Plan Standards for Wilderness Resources do not apply within the context
of this project.
TABLE 3.188 - FOREST PLAN STANDARDS FOR WILDERNESS RESOURCES THAT DO NOT APPLY
STANDARD
NUMBER
1-10
SUBJECT SUMMARY
Wilderness Management Direction
COMPLIANCE ACHIEVED BY
No treatment is proposed in Wilderness. No
other specific standards were developed for
Roadless areas only general Forest Plan
standards apply.
Chapter 3
Page 448
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CHAPTER 4 - PREPARERS AND DISTRIBUTION LIST FOR DRAFT EIS
4.1. PREPARERS
RESOURCE
PROJECT MANAGER
INTERDISCIPLINARY TEAM LEADER
SOILS
WATERSHED
FISHERIES
FIRE
AIR QUALITY
RECREATION
WILD AND SCENIC RIVERS
TRANSPORTATION
HERITAGE
VEGETATION
WILDLIFE
SOCIO-ECONOMICS
WILDERNESS, INVENTORIED ROADLESS
AREAS AND AREAS WITH POSSIBLE
UNROADED CHARACTERISTICS
APPENDIX A - MAPS
APPENDIX B - GLOSSARY
APPENDIX C - REFERENCES
APPENDIX D - WATERSHED, FISH HABITAT
APPENDIX E - SUPPORT FOR WATERSHED,
FISH HABITAT
APPENDIX F - ROAD MAINTENANCE
OBJECTIVES
APPENDIX G - FUEL MODELS
APPENDIX H - TREATMENTS BY
ALTERNATIVE
APPENDIX I - MONITORING PLAN
APPENDIX J - TERRESTRIAL
EDITOR
PREPARER
PHILIP N. JAHN/SCOTT RUSSELL
KATHERINE WORN/ESTER MCCULLOUGH
PATRICIA GREEN
NICK GERHARDT
WAYNE PARADIS
TIM THEISEN/BRIAN JENKINS/TIM BUTTON
TIM THEISEN/BRIAN JENKINS/TIM BUTTON
RANDY BORNIGER
RANDY BORNIGER
RICHARD GRAVES/LAURIE DOMAN
STEVE LUCAS
RANDALL WALKER/LEONARD LAKE
G. STEVE BLAIR/JOANNE BONN
MARK PETERSON/MICHAEL MCGEE
RANDY BORNIGER
DAVID GREEN
MONICA MCGEE
ALL
NICK GERHARDT, WAYNE PARADIS
NICK GERHARDT, WAYNE PARADIS
RICH GRAVES
TIM THEISEN/BRIAN JENKINS/TIM BUTTON
RANDALL WALKER, ESTER HUTCHINSON,
KATHERINE WORN
ESTER HUTCHINSON, KATHERINE WORN
G. STEVE BLAIR/JOANNE BONN
MONICA McGEE
-------
American River/Crooked River- Final Environmental Impact Statement
4.2. DISTRIBUTION LIST FOR FINAL EIS
Backcountry Horsemen
Dennis Dailey, President
P.O. Box 112
Grangeville, Idaho 83530
983-1030
Baird, Dennis
P.O. Box 8787
Moscow, Idaho 83843
208-882-8289
dbaird@uidaho.edu
Bennett Forest Industries
John Bennett
Route 1, Box 2L
Grangeville, ID 83530
983-0012
Bureau of Land Management
Greg Yuncevich, Cottonwood
Manager Route 3, Box 181
Cottonwood, Idaho 83522
962-3245
CFI Mill
Jim Wassmuth, Manager
Clearwater Forest Industries
207 S.E. Madison Street
Grangeville, Idaho 83530
983-2056
Clearwater National Forest Larry
Dawson, Supervisor
12730 Highway 12
Orofino, Idaho 83544
208-476-8273
ldawson@fs.fed.us
Congressman Butch Otter
Bonnie Butler, Assistant
111 Main Street, Suite 170
Lewiston, Idaho 83501
208-298-0030
bonnie.butler(q). mail.house.
Craig-Wyden (RAC)
Andy Brunelle
304 North 8th
Room 250
Boise, ID 83702
Department of Environ. Quality
Daniel Stewart
300 West Main - Room 203
Grangeville, Idaho 83530
Friends of the Clearwater
Gary McFarlane
(208) 882-9755
fQC@wJidrockJes.org
Hingston Roach Group
Lorraine Roach
416 W. Main
Grangeville, ID 83530
983-2175
Idaho Conservation League
John McCarthy
P.O. Box 844
Boise, Idaho 83701-0844
Idaho County
Carl Crabtree
320 West Main Street
Grangeville, Idaho 83530
983-2667
Idaho County Commissioner
Alice Mattson
Idaho County Courthouse
320 West Main Street
Grangeville, Idaho 83530
983-2751
amattson@idahocounty.org
Idaho County Commissioner
Pat Holmberg, Chairman
Idaho County Courthouse
320 West Main Street
Grangeville, Idaho 83530
983-2751
pholmberg(g)idahocountv.orq
Idaho County Commissioner George
Enneking
Idaho County Courthouse
320 West Main Street
Grangeville, Idaho 83530
983-2751
genneking(g)idahocoyntv.orQ
Idaho County Free Press
David Rauzi, Publisher
P.O. Box 690
Grangeville, Idaho 83530
983-1200
drauzi@eagienewspapers.com
Idaho Dept. of Fish & Game Cal
Groen, Supervisor
1540 Warner Avenue
Lewiston, Idaho 83501
208-799-5010
cgroen@jdfg.state.id.us
Idaho Dept. of Lands
Bob McKnight, Area Supervisor
10230 Highway 12
Orofino, Idaho 83554
208-476-4587
bmcknight@idl.state.id.us
Idaho Outfitters & Guides Grant
Simmonds
Executive Director
P.O. Box 95
Boise, ID 83701
Kovalicky, Tom
Nez Perce Forest Retiree
Route 2
Grangeville, Idaho 83530
983-0281
Lewiston City Library
428 Thain Road
Lewiston, Idaho 83501
(208)743-6519
Lewiston Morning Tribune Eric
Barker, Outdoor Reporter
505 "C" Street
Lewiston, Idaho 83501
National Marine Fisheries Dale
Brege
102 North College
Grangeville, Idaho 83530
Chapter 4
Page 450
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
(Inter-Library Loan setup)
208-743-9411 (ext. #273)
ebarker@lmtrjbune.com
983-3859
dale.breqe@noaa.gov
Nez Perce Tribal Executive
Committee
Anthony Johnson, Chairman
P.O. Box 305
Lapwai, Idaho 83540
208-843-2253
Nez Perce Tribal Fisheries
Ira Jones
(208)843-7144
iraj@nezperce.org
Dave Johnson (Fisheries)
davei@nezperce.org
Also Scott Althouse and Aaron
Miles from the Tribe
North Central Idaho RAC
Bob Hafer
106 North D
Grangeville, Idaho 83530
983-2747
North Idaho Conservation League
Jonathon Oppenheimer
P.O. Box 9783
Moscow, Idaho 83843
(208)882-1010
ioppenheimer@wiididaho.org
Rehfeld, Bob
Nez Perce Forest Retiree
835 South A
Grangeville, Idaho 83530
983-9189
Senator Larry Craig
Leann Wagele, Assistant
846 Main Street
Lewiston, ID 835301
208-743-0792
leann wagele@craig.senate.gov
Senator Michael Crapo
Mitch Silvers, Assistant
313 D Street, Room #105
Lewiston, Idaho 83501
208-743-1492
mitch silvers@crapo.senate.gov
Snowdrifters Snowmobile Club
Mike Murphy, President
P.O. Box 572
Grangeville, Idaho 83530
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Paul
Moroz
1387 So. VinnellWay
Boise, Idaho 83709-1657
208-378-5243
paul rnoroz@fws.gov
University of Idaho
Bill McLaughlin, Professor
Department of Resource Recreation
& Tourism College of Natural
Resources
PO Box 441139
Moscow, ID 83844-1139
208-885-6659
bilSm@uidaho.edu
Chapter 4
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American River/Crooked River - Final Environmental Impact Statement
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Page 452
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