Big Creek and Upper Ocoee River Ecosystem Assessment Ocoee/Hiwassee Ranger District Cherokee National Forest

Table of Contents

INTRODUCTION…………..…………………………………...... 1 Description of Watersheds..……………………………………... 1 PHYSICAL ELEMENTS…………………………………………. 3 Soils/Watershed/Riparian, Wetlands & Floodplains...... 3 Air………………………………………………………...... 3 Minerals……………………………………………….…………. 4 BIOLOGICAL ELEMENTS…………………………………….... 7 Major Forest Communities………………………………………. 9 Rare Communities……………………………………………….. 11 Successional Habitats……………………………………………. 11 Terrestrial Habitat Attributes…………………………………….. 13 Aquatic Habitats…………………………………...…………...... 14 Demand Species…………………………………………………. 17 Non-Native Invasive Plants and Animals.……………………….. 17 Species Viability.……………………………..……….…………. 18 Forest Health …………………………..……………...... 20 RESOURCE MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS…...……………… 24 Recreation Related Programs…...……………………………….. 24 Heritage Resources………………………………………………. 25 Forest Products……………………………………...... 25 Special Uses/Lands………………………………………………. 27 Prescribed and Wildland Fires…………………………...... 29 Roads and Access………………………………………………... 30 APPENDIX A - Goals and Objectives……………………………. 32 APPENDIX B – Trans. Analysis Process Report……………… 48

Introduction

Description of Assessment Area The Big Creek and Upper Ocoee River Assessment Area is located about three miles west of Ducktown, Tennessee in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The area is located in the Southern Metasedimentary Mountain Eco-region. The two watersheds total approximately 36,521 acres within the Cherokee National Forest proclamation boundary. Elevation in the area ranges from about 840 feet at the confluence of Big Creek and the Ocoee River to 4,200 feet at the top of Big Frog Mountain. Land ownership within the assessment area is approximately 59 % in National Forest System lands (NFS) and 41 % in private ownership. The assessment area has an average annual temperature of 55 degrees Fahrenheit. January is usually the coldest month with an average temperature of 35 degrees Fahrenheit, while July is usually the hottest month with an average temperature of 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The area averages about 55 inches of precipitation annually, which is distributed somewhat evenly throughout the year. March is usually the wettest month with an average of 5.9 inches of precipitation, while October is usually the driest with an average of 3.0 inches of precipitation. The length of the growing season is approximately 180 days per year. Prevailing winds in eastern Tennessee are predominantly from the southwest. The landform of the area is characterized by steep, dissected mountains and narrow V-shaped valleys. The physical character of the assessment area is greatly influenced by the geology associated with the Blue Ridge Physiographic province. The majority of the assessment area is in Management Prescription (MP) 8.C and 1.A of the Cherokee National Revised Land and Resource Management Plan (RLRMP) (USDA 2004). Table 1 displays the approximate land acreages by Management Prescription. Figure 1 displays the location of the assessment area within the Ocoee Ranger District of the Cherokee National Forest (CNF) and the Management Prescriptions. Table 1. Management Prescription acreages in Big Creek/Upper Ocoee Management NFS Prescription Acreage 1.A 9,355 1.B 711 5.A .1 5.B .1 7.A 1,477 7.D 36 8.C 9,795 9.H 282 Total Acres 21,656

Figure 1. Vicinity Map

Physical Elements

Soils/Watershed/Riparian, Wetlands and Floodplains Existing Condition Opportunities Recommendations/Priorities

Air Existing Condition The Big Creek and Upper Ocoee River watersheds have a long history of acidic deposition from local and regional sources. Direct impacts of sulfur dioxide emissions and sulfuric acid occurred from copper smeltering in the Copperhill basin near Ducktown, Tennessee. In 1912, surveyors recorded portions of the Upper Ocoee River were destitute of any vegetation. This area was severely impacted by sulfur dioxide toxicity to the vegetation as well as the harvesting of both above and below ground portions of the trees to fuel the copper smelters. The surveyors also recorded serious forest injury throughout most of the two watersheds as well as visible symptoms of sulfur dioxide injury on the foliage. The Tennessee Valley Authority applied limestone to replace soil base cations (calcium, magnesium and potassium) and increase the soil pH in order to establish a new conifer overstory in the destitute area.

The two watersheds are composed primarily of silaceous lithology. Soils that develop from this type of rock are the most sensitive to acidic deposition and are vulnerable to base cation depletion. Base cations are essential to maintain healthy vegetation and aquatic biota.

Opportunities Recommendations/Priorities Water chemistry samples have been collected in Little Frog Mountain Wilderness adjacent to the study area, but the results are not available to discuss in this assessment. In the future, an inventory of the headwater stream water chemistry should be taken from 10 streams in each of the two watersheds. The results from this survey can provide an initial indicator if the streams can support aquatic biota by examining the stream acid neutralizing capacity (ANC) and pH results. Also, examining the stream water ANC to sulfate ratio can provide an indication if the soils have reached their maximum capacity to retain sulfates. Soils that reach the maximum sulfate retention are more vulnerable to base cation depletion then soils that have the capacity to continue retaining sulfates.

Minerals Existing Condition GOAL 45: Manage mineral resources to meet demands for energy and non-energy minerals RESPONSE: There are currently no known mineral leases or permits within the assessment area.

GOAL 46: Where reserved or outstanding mineral rights are involved, the mineral owner is encourage to implement all surface-disturbing activities outside riparian areas.

RESPONSE: According to the land status atlas available at the Ocoee Ranger Station, the following mineral rights are known to exist in the assessment area:

Quad Tract Twnshp Range Sec. Party Rights Held Some minerals in Ducktown K‐1 2 4E 31 TN Timber Co. perpetuity Ducktown K‐1 2S 4E 5 TN Timber Co. All minerals and stone All minerals in perpetuity. Partial Ducktown K‐986 2S 4E 13 TVA interest. Epworth NONE Hemptop NONE Mineral rights Caney outstanding to 3rd Creek K‐19 1 3E 36 Nankivell, James parties. 15 acres. 1/2 mineral interest on 20 acres outstanding to 3rd parties. Oil and gas Caney K‐ Webb, Harold & reserved until expires or Creek 1194 1 3E 36 Oliver quit producing. 1/2 mineral interest on Caney 94 acres outstanding to Creek K‐11 1 3E 36 Parker, James 3rd parties. Caney All minerals in Creek K‐538 1 3E 25 Ramsey, R.L. perpetuity on 149 acres. Caney All minerals in Creek K‐431 1S 3E 3 Baker, J.B. perpetuity. Caney All minerals in Creek K‐431 2S 3E 34 Baker, J.B. perpetuity.

There are currently no applications, leases, or permits for exercise of mineral rights within the assessment area.

GOAL 1.A-1 The Government will seek to acquire private mineral rights through purchase, exchange, or donation. Until such private rights are acquired, the exercise of reserved and outstanding mineral rights to explore and develop mineral resources will be respected. RESPONSE: According to the old land status atlas, there were 9 reserved mineral rights within the assessment area (see table above) that existed when the CNF was acquired. It is unknown at this time whether these rights are still valid and existing since the last update to the atlas was circa the 1980’s. There is currently no mineral exploration or development known to exist within the assessment area.

GOAL 1.A-2 Pursue the purchase of outstanding or reserved subsurface mineral rights within the A.T., wilderness or roadless areas recommended for wilderness study.

RESPONSE: There are no known outstanding or reserved subsurface mineral rights within Big Frog and Little Frog Wilderness areas in the assessment area.

Opportunities GOAL 45: Manage mineral resources to meet demands for energy and non-energy minerals RESPONSE: Applications to explore or develop mineral resources will receive appropriate consideration. Mineral lease applications must also be filed with the BLM. The Mineral Leasing Act for Acquired Lands (Act of Aug. 7, 1947) requires consent by the Secretary of Agriculture prior to the leasing of an acquired mineral estate in NFS lands by the USDI/BLM.

GOAL 46: Where reserved or outstanding mineral rights are involved, the mineral owner is encouraged to implement all surface-disturbing activities outside riparian areas. RESPONSE: The Forest Service, in cooperation with USDI/BLM, has the right to specify terms and conditions under which a lease or permit will be issued to protect the surface resources as well as review operational plans.

GOAL 1.A-1 The Government will seek to acquire private mineral rights through purchase, exchange, or donation. Until such private rights are acquired, the exercise of reserved and outstanding mineral rights to explore and develop mineral resources will be respected. RESPONSE: Forest lands and special uses staff can research the validity of mineral rights within the assessment area. Seek to establish NFS ownership of unexercised private mineral rights under the Tennessee Dormant Mineral Statute (20 years). Applications to explore and develop valid mineral resources will receive the appropriate consideration in coordination with the USDI/BLM.

GOAL 1.A-2 Pursue the purchase of outstanding or reserved subsurface mineral rights within the A.T., wilderness or roadless areas recommended for wilderness study. RESPONSE: None.

Recommendation/Priorities GOAL 45: Manage mineral resources to meet demands for energy and non-energy minerals RESPONSE: None.

GOAL 46: Where reserved or outstanding mineral rights are involved, the mineral owner is encouraged to implement all surface-disturbing activities outside riparian areas. RESPONSE: The FS will specify to future applicants and the BLM that surface disturbing activities should be outside riparian areas in the assessment area.

GOAL 1.A-2 Pursue the purchase of outstanding or reserved subsurface mineral rights within the A.T., wilderness or roadless areas recommended for wilderness study. RESPONSE: None. Biological Elements

Biological elements include the diversity of plant and animal communities, habitat components, and individual species of concern or interest. Discussion of these elements are organized in this document following the framework used during forest planning (RLRMP FEIS). Use of this framework is designed to ensure comprehensive consideration of the biological environment. Elements in this framework are listed in Table 2, where they are assessed for their relevance to this area. Only those relevant to the area are discussed further in this document. Table 2. Elements of the biological environment, derived from RLRMP analysis, their relevance to the Big Creek Upper Ocoee watersheds, and whether they will be further discussed in this document. Analyzed Biological Element Relevance to this Project Further? Mesic Deciduous Forest Yes Mesic deciduous forests occur on 11,433 acres (47%) in the area. Spruce-fir Forest No There are no spruce-fir forests in the area. Eastern Hemlock and White Pine Forest Yes Hemlock or white pine forests occur on 3,073 acres (13%) in the area. Oak and Oak-pine Forest Yes Oak and oak-pine forests occur on 10,512 acres (44%) in the area. Pine and Pine-oak Forest Yes Pine and pine-oak forests occur on 6,858 acres (28%) in the area. Woodlands, Savannas, and Grasslands Yes Acres are available for creation of this habitat Rare Communities Wetland Communities Yes There are likely numerous small wetlands associated with the many small streams in the project area, however no specific rare wetland communities have been mapped for this area. Barrens, Glades, and Associated Woodlands No These rare communities are not known to occur in the watershed. Carolina Hemlock Forests No These rare communities are not known to occur in the watershed. Table Mountain Pine Forests No These rare communities are not known to occur in the watershed. Basic Mesic Forests No These rare communities are not known to occur in the watershed.. Beech Gap Forests No These rare communities are not known to occur in the watershed. Rock Outcrops and Cliffs (includes forested No These rare communities are not boulder fields) known to occur in the watershed.. High Elevation Balds and Meadows No These rare communities are not known to occur in the watershed..

Table 2. Elements of the biological environment, derived from RLRMP analysis, their relevance to the Big Creek Upper Ocoee watersheds, and whether they will be further discussed in this document. Analyzed Biological Element Relevance to this Project Further? Caves and Mines No These rare communities are not known to occur in the watershed. Successional Habitats Yes Successional habitats are important in the area. High Elevation Early Successional Habitats Yes High elevations occur in the project area. Permanent openings and old fields, Rights-of Yes The area includes this habitat. way, Improved pastures Forest Interior Birds No The affected area is not identified in the RLRMP as an area where edge effect is an issue. Old Growth Yes Network of future old growth will be discussed. Terrestrial Riparian Habitats Yes These habitats will be discussed. Snags, Dens, and Downed Wood Yes Snags occur in the area. Aquatic Habitats Yes Threatened and Endangered Species No There are no known occurrences of T&E species in the watershed. Demand Species Yes These species will be discussed. Migratory Birds No Migratory bird issues are included in individual Major Forested Communities sections. Invasive Non-Native Plants and Animals Yes Invasive non-native plants and animals Occur at various locations throughout the watershed. Species Viability Yes Species with viability concerns occur in the area. Forest Health Yes

Major Forest Communities Existing Condition The RLRMP defines community types as shown in the following chart (Table 2-4, page 39 of the RLRMP) (USDA 2004) (Figure 2). Figure 2. Big Creek Upper Ocoee RLRMP Forested Community Types

The following chart (Figure 3) displays the major community groups as defined by the RLRMP Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) in the assessment area (USDA 2004b). The percentages of the major forested communities do not equal 100% because some forest types can be a component of more than one community. Figure 3. Big Creek Upper Ocoee RLRMP FEIS Major Forested Communities

Mesic deciduous forests comprise the majority of the landscape at 47%. Oak and oak- pine forests are the next most plentiful with pine and pine-oak forests and eastern hemlock and white pine forests the least abundant. Opportunities Mesic Deciduous Forest  Create small canopy gaps suitable for Cerulean warbler and associated species accomplished through harvest of groups (group selection) or single tree selection and thinning. Eastern Hemlock and White Pine Forests  Opportunity to thin or regenerate. Oak and Oak-Pine Forests  Opportunities are to remove white pine, do timber stand improvements, prescribe burn and plant oak if needed. Pine and Pine-Oak Forests  Opportunities include removing white pine, improving stands of table mountain pine, do timber stand improvements, harvest timber, prescribe burn and plant oak if needed. Woodlands, Savannas, and Grasslands  There is a good opportunity to develop woodlands in the Big Creek Upper Ocoee area. Much of the area was impacted by the southern pine beetle causing the death of many pines. With continued burning and little else, these areas with low basal area could be maintained as a woodland community type.  Opportunities are to remove white pine, do timber stand improvements, harvest timber, prescribe burn and plant oak if needed. Recommendations/Priorities Mesic Deciduous Forest  Harvest by group selection or single tree selection and thinning 235 acres. Eastern Hemlock and White Pine Forests  Hemlock and white pine forests would be managed to optimize their natural distribution, abundance, and condition. Reduce white pine plantations. Oak and Oak-Pine Forests  Recommendations are to remove white pine, do timber stand improvements, harvest timber, prescribe burn and plant oak if needed. Pine and Pine-Oak Forests  Recommendations are to remove white pine, do timber stand improvements, harvest timber, prescribe burn and plant oak if needed.

Woodlands, Savannas, and Grasslands  Recommendations are to remove white pine, do timber stand improvements, harvest timber, prescribe burn and plant oak if needed.

Rare Communities Existing Condition Wetland Communities There are numerous occurrences of small, unmapped wetland communities on the CNF, most being associated with river and stream terraces. There are likely some wetlands of this category in the assessment area but none have been currently identified as a rare wetland community. Most large wetland complexes have been mapped and are designated in the RLRMP as rare communities. Smaller occurrences that meet the rare community definitions provided in the RLRMP will be managed under the rare community prescription as they are found. Opportunities/ Recommendations/Priorities Wetland Communities

 None currently identified.

Successional Habitats Existing Condition Approximately 62% of the acreage in the assessment area is greater than 80 years of age at this time. There are currently 633 acres (3%) within the 0-10 year age class (base year 2010) of the total forested acres. This information is based on a FSVeg age class distribution table dated August 18, 2010. The percentage distribution of successional stages is presented in Figure 4.

Figure 4. Big Creek Upper Ocoee Successional Stages

 The assessment area includes 8 different RLRMP Management Prescriptions.  Prescription 8.C (Black Bear Habitat Emphasis) encompasses 9,795 acres in the assessment area.  Manage forest successional stages to maintain a minimum of 65 percent of forested acres in mid- late-successional forest, including old growth; a minimum of 20 percent of forested acres in late-successional forest, including old growth; and 4 to 8 percent in early-successional forest.  There are currently 87 acres in early successional habitat in 8C.  Prescription 9.H (Management, Maintenance, and Restoration of Plant Associations to their Ecological Potential) encompasses 282 acres in the assessment area.  Manage forest successional stages to maintain a minimum of 50 percent of forested acres in mid- late-successional forest, including old growth; a minimum of 20 percent of forested acres in late-successional forest, including old growth; and 4 to 10 percent in early-successional forest” (USDA 2004a).  There are currently no acres in early successional habitat in 9H.  There are currently 1,854 acres above 3000 feet in the assessment area; all but 13 acres is within wilderness areas.  There are 7 linear openings: 33272, 369, 1376, 333501, 334501, 221E, 334502 and 24 spot openings totaling 28 acres.  There is also a TVA utility line south of Ocoee River. TVA uses herbicides to maintain the line controlling woody vegetation and allowing native grasses to become established.

In June of 1997 a team chartered by the Southern Regional Forester completed a report entitled Guidance for Conserving and Restoring Old-Growth Forest Communities on National Forests in the Southern Region; hereafter, referred to as the “Regional Guidance Document” (Forest Service, 1997). Using this report as a guide, the CNF outlined an old growth strategy during Forest Plan revision. This strategy is listed in Appendix D to the 2004 RLRMP. The Plan lists three types of old growth: Existing Old Growth is defined by four criteria which include factors of age, basal area, diameter at breast height, and disturbance; Possible Old Growth is defined as forest stands that meet the minimum age requirement for a given old growth community type; and Future Old Growth is defined as those stands that do not necessarily exhibit old growth characteristics now, but are allocated to old growth through land management decisions (examples include allocations of wilderness and other management prescriptions that are designated as unsuitable for timber management, including riparian areas.). No special allocations were made in the Forest Plan to designate existing old growth areas, primarily because no existing stands had been inventoried that met the four criteria, and the allocation of the various management prescriptions was shown to provide for a significant amount of future old growth across the forest.

Table 3 provides data from new GIS queries on stands information that has been updated since the writing of the RLRMP. In order to see how the Big Creek-Upper Ocoee watersheds contribute to the overall network of future old growth on the forest, data in the table is presented for both the entire forest and the watershed. Acres that meet the minimum age (possible old growth), as coded in GIS, are shown in parentheses as a subset of the future old growth category.

Table 3. Current Amounts of Future and Possible1 Old Growth on the Cherokee National Forest Big Creek-Upper Ocoee Watersheds Old Growth Forest-wide Watershed Forest-Wide Watershed Forest-Wide Watershed Community Acres (all age Acres (all age Acres of Acres of % of Comm. % of Comm. Type classes) classes) Future Old Future Old Type in Type in growth growth Future Old Future Old Growth Growth Northern 19,063 4 16,456 4 86% 100% Hardwood (2,678) (0) Forest Conifer- 52,964 2,561 16,559 1,163 31% 45% Northern (681) (196) Hardwood Forest Mixed 144,137 3,158 75,623 1,719 52% 54% Mesophytic (1,666) (0) Hardwood Forest Dry to Mesic 131,177 6,122 62,592 3,485 48% 57% Oak Forest (3,477) (0) Dry and Xeric 70,933 2,397 34,068 2,231 48% 93% Oak Forest (4,531) (0) Xeric Pine and 143,504 6,404 44,323 3,605 31% 56% Pine-Oak (4,911) (6) Forest Dry and Dry- 62,154 668 24,961 277 40% 41% Mesic Oak- (2,753) (0) Pine Forest Eastern 872 158 600 145 69% 92% Riverfront and (14) (0)

River Floodplain Hardwood Forests Montane 723 0 723 0 100% n/a Spruce-Fir (82) Forest TOTAL 625,527 21,472 275,905 12,629 44% 59% (20,793) (202) 1Acres in parentheses are possible old growth within management prescriptions that are unsuitable for commercial timber management. Those acres meet the minimum age criterion for that old growth community type and are shown here as a subset of the future old growth category.

The following management prescriptions are designated as unsuitable for timber management: 1A, 1B, 2B1, 2B2, 2B3, 4A, 4E, 4F, 4K, 5A, 5B, 7A, 7D, 9F, 11, 12A, 12B.

All blue-line streams are given a buffer of 100 feet to each side (200’ wide corridor) to approximate the unmapped riparian prescription (Rx 11).

 A total of 12,629 acres fall into the future old growth category within the watershed area, of which 202 acres meet the minimum age requirement based upon GIS stands data. Based upon the data shown in the table, over half (59%) of the forested acres in the watershed area fall within the future old growth category based upon land management prescriptions, and of the community types present, all are also very well represented in the future old growth category. Opportunities Successional Forested Habitats  Increase early successional habitat by 306-700 acres in 8C.  Increase early successional habitat by 11-28 acres in 9H. High Elevation Early Successional Habitats  Wilderness opportunities may be limited to use of prescribed burning or wildfire management to allow these high elevations to burn or to burn hotter. Permanent Openings and Old Fields, Rights of Way, Improved Pastures  These habitat types should be promoted in appropriate locations and maintained where they currently exist. Openings should be evaluated for native vegetation management. Old Growth  Field investigations for possible old growth.

Recommendations/Priorities Successional Forested Habitats  Use even aged and two-aged regeneration methods in 8C.  No early successional forest in 9H; use even aged and two-aged regeneration methods

High Elevation Early Successional Habitats  Complete a fire use management plan to consider burning these areas or allowing wildfire to burn. Permanent Openings and Old Fields, Rights of Way, Improved Pastures  Monitor TVA line for native grasses and forbs  Evaluate for native vegetation management. Old Growth  Field investigations for possible old growth.

Terrestrial Habitat Attributes Existing Condition Terrestrial riparian habitats are abundant within the Big Creek Upper Ocoee watersheds. Snag availability is currently not considered a limiting factor on the Cherokee National Forest. Opportunities Riparian Habitats  Riparian habitat opportunities consist mainly of maintaining the ecological systems. Some opportunities for enhancement may exist in localized areas Snag, Dens and Downed Woods  Activities to increase availability of snags, dens, and downed wood on the CNF will not be required.  Use by Indiana bats may be increased by leaving a buffer around snags. Recommendations/Priorities Riparian Habitats  Maintain and enhance the riparian areas as needed. Snag, Dens and Downed Woods  Do not cut standing snags and den trees  Use by Indiana bats may be increased by leaving a buffer around snags.  Leave den trees during all vegetation management treatments occurring in habitats suitable for bears.  Leave at least one downed tree greater than 12 inch dbh per acre during management activities, to be a potential ruffed grouse drumming log.

Aquatic Habitats Existing Condition All streams in the assessment area are within the Blue Ridge Province and drain to Upper Ocoee River and Lower Ocoee River 5th level Hydrological Units (HU). Based on the FEIS for the RLRMP (USDA 2004b) these HU’s are rated below average and average, respectively for

sediment production. Temperature, point source pollution, and altered stream did not pose a risk to aquatic species viability (USDA 2004b). The assessment area contains approximately 570 miles of ephemeral, intermittent and perennial streams with 32 miles providing recreational fishing opportunities (Table 4).

Table 4. NFS managed aquatic habitats in the Assessment Area

Aquatic Habitats Miles in Assessment Area Ephemeral Streams 354 miles Intermittent Streams 118 miles Perennial Streams 98 miles Fishery Waters Coldwater 28 miles Coolwater 4 miles Approximately 32 miles of NFS managed streams are capable of supporting fish and are displayed in Table 5 along with their physical characteristics. Sixteen of twenty-five reaches have been surveyed for fish; all of the unsurveyed reaches are headwater tributaries. Based on their physical characteristics, none of the unsurveyed streams are likely to support any different or rare species. Table 5. Big Creek and Upper Ocoee Streams Capable of Supporting Fish Low Up Stream Name Reach Elev Elev Miles % Gradient Order Big Creek 1 820 1180 4 1.70 6 Big Creek 2 1180 1380 1.76 2.20 6 Big Creek 3 1380 2100 2.11 6.50 5 Big Creek Unnamed Trib 1 1640 1960 0.4 16.00 3 Brown Camp Branch 1 1300 1520 0.9 4.40 5 Little Gassaway Creek 1 1200 1320 0.8 3.00 4 Haigler Branch 1 1040 1340 1.1 5.00 4 Low Gap Branch 1 1480 1840 0.9 8.00 4 Pace Branch 1 1380 1560 0.69 2.20 4 Penitentiary Branch 1 1680 2480 1.1 13.30 4 Peter Camp Branch 1 1440 1780 1.54 4.20 5 Peter Camp Branch 2 1780 2200 0.6 14.00 3 Rough Creek 1 1300 1540 2.26 2.00 5 Rough Creek, East Fork 1 1560 2260 3 4.40 4 Rough Creek, East Fork 2 2260 3440 1.3 19.70 4 Rough Creek, West Fork 1 1540 2020 2.16 4.20 5 Rough Creek, West Fork 2 2020 2160 0.2 14.00 4 Indian Creek 1 1540 1840 0.86 6.60 4 Indian Creek 2 1840 2520 0.8 17.00 4 Indian Creek, Unnamed Trib 1 1640 2040 0.6 13.30 3

Table 5. Big Creek and Upper Ocoee Streams Capable of Supporting Fish Low Up Stream Name Reach Elev Elev Miles % Gradient Order Long Branch 1 1440 1500 0.4 3.00 4 Payne Branch 1 1460 1580 0.6 4.00 4 Sholer Branch 1 1600 1640 0.4 2.00 4 Tumbling Creek 1 1420 1540 1.79 1.30 6 Tumbling Creek 2 1580 1700 1.7 1.30 6 A total of 27 species of fish have been documented from the streams in this area (Table 6). There are no Endangered, Threatened, Sensitive, or Locally Rare fish present; ten are game species (including two desirable exotics); the remaining fish species are all natives. One Locally Rare salamander occurs in the area: hellbender. Other aquatic species present in this area, include: amphibians, reptiles, insects, crayfish, and snails. No known game or rare species from these taxa occur here.

Table 6. The total number of fish populations in the Assessment Area and their relative abundance on the Forest Populations Fish Species Status Assessment Area Forest banded sculpin Native 7 20 bluegill Game 1 60 brook trout Game 0 (stocking failed) 155 brown trout Introduced/Desirable 2 101 creek chub Native 9 235 fantail darter Native 1 36 green sunfish Game 2 37 greenside darter Native 4 41 lamprey sp. Native 1 largescale stoneroller Native 6 76 largemouth bass Game 1 26 longnose dace Native 7 103 mirror shiner Native 2 16 mottled sculpin Native 1 66 northern hogsucker Native 4 111 rainbow trout Introduced/Desirable 15 312 redbreast sunfish Game 2 43 redline darter Native 4 49 river chub Native 6 78 rock bass Game 2 80 smallmouth bass Game 2 57 spotted bass Game 1 23 Tennessee darter Native 2 62

Tennessee shiner Native 3 61 warpaint shiner Native 6 88 whitetail shiner Native 3 42 western blacknose dace Native 11 306

Desired Future Condition All aquatic ecosystems function properly and support viable populations of all expected aquatic species given their physical limitations. Movement of aquatic organisms is not impeded by manmade (i.e. culverts) barriers. Opportunities Goal 1 Objective 1.02 and 1.03 Soil and water improvements Ocoee #3 is the only 303d listed water body in the assessment area. Cooperate with EPA, TDEC & Glenn Springs in monitoring the recovery of aquatic organisms in Ocoee Reservoir #3 and in the Ocoee River downstream of the North Potato Creek confluence. Tumbling Creek and its embayment are adversely affected by FS road 221L. This road should be improved to control sediment and allow boater access increasing recreational opportunities on Ocoee Reservoir #3. Goal 2 Instream flows See Goal 1. Goal 3 Limit sediment runoff Decommission unneeded roads to reduce sedimentation, maintenance, and deferred maintenance costs (1368, 221G, 332702, 33272, 334501, 336701, 336801, and 5065). Goal 4 Restore streams degraded by acid runoff See Goal 1. Goal 10 Maintain and restore natural communities In cooperation with TVA restore minimum base flows to the Ocoee River from Ocoee Reservoir #3 to Parksville Reservoir. Cooperate with TWRA and the US Fish and Wildlife Service to restore the natural aquatic community to the Ocoee River. Goal 31 Improve angling opportunities Determine the fishing opportunities in Ocoee Reservoir #3 and the Ocoee River. Restore game fish, improve habitat, and improve angler access to these waters. Goal 50 Upgrade highly used forest roads During road reconstruction, provide for aquatic organism passage at every culvert. Goal 11-1 Riparian ecosystems, wetlands, and aquatic systems are managed See Goal 3 Goal 11-2 Streams are managed for game fish production Install fish cover structures into Big, Rough and Tumbling Creeks

Recommendations/Priorities All the opportunities listed above are recommended for analysis and implementation.

Demand Species Existing Condition Important wildlife demand species within the assessment area include white-tailed deer, eastern wild turkey, ruffed grouse, and black bear. Opportunities  Refer to the RLRMP objectives for mesic deciduous forest; oak and oak-pine forest; woodlands, savannas, and grasslands; and successional habitats in the respective biological element sections in this document. Recommendations/Priorities  Achieving RLRMP objectives for mesic deciduous forest; oak and oak-pine forest; woodlands, savannas, and grasslands; and successional habitats would greatly improve habitat conditions for white-tailed deer, turkey and ruffed grouse.

Non-Native Invasive Plants and Animals Existing Condition Within the assessment area, invasive plant species are abundant along many roads and trails and within spot wildlife openings. Nepal grass occurs along most roads, and is especially a problem along linear wildlife openings. Autumn olive, originally planted to benefit wildlife, is now threatening to turn some wildlife openings into dense, impenetrable thickets. The integrity of wetlands and riparian areas found within the assessment area are threatened by damage from soil disturbance created by rooting of wild boars and feral hogs. Opportunities  There are infestations of Paulownia in regenerated cove stands along Peavine Ridge. Desired future condition of these stands is in question as native grape arbors have also suppressed tree reproduction. Opportunity exists to restore/enhance these stands to move toward a desired future condition that is consistent with the management Rx and potential natural vegetation for the site.  If survey $$ are available, survey for non-native invasive plants adjacent to Big Frog Wilderness area, especially trail-heads, adjacent roads, and other entrance points.  There is an opportunity to convert open fields and linear opening that are dominated by tall fescue (and other nnon-natives) to native grasses and forbs.  There is an opportunity to expand treatments of HWA in this watershed. Immediate needs are assessing condition of hemlocks and expanding NEPA coverage.  Longer term needs include assessing new treatments methods (new NEPA?) and considering methods for restoration.

Recommendations/Priorities  Use forest strategy that was developed to ensure invasive plant treatments occur on the highest priority acres to determine whether or not to treat invasive plant species in this watershed.  Develop process for assessing hemlocks and complete NEPA if necessary.

Species Viability Existing Condition Aquatic Species There are 54 (Table 7) aquatic or semi-aquatic TES species on the CNF TES species list (CNF 2001). None (Table 7) of these are known to occur in the assessment area; however, habitat exists for one Sensitive fish and seven Sensitive aquatic insects (Table 8). Table 7. Aquatic and semi-aquatic Threatened, Endangered and Sensitive species on the CNF list in the Assessment Area Number Group CNF List Assessment Area Amphibians 6 0 Fish 18 0 Insects 8 0 Mussels 21 0 Reptiles 1 0 Totals 54 0

Table 8. Aquatic and semi-aquatic Threatened, Endangered and Sensitive species that may occur within the Assessment Area Assessment Group Common Name Status Area Forest Wide Fish Tennessee dace Sensitive Not Documented Polk County Helma’s net-spinning Insects caddisfly Sensitive Not Documented Polk County Insects Cherokee clubtail Sensitive Not Documented Polk County Insects Green-faced clubtail Sensitive Not Documented Unknown Insects Mountain river cruiser Sensitive Not Documented Unknown Insects Allegheny snaketail Sensitive Not Documented Unknown Insects Edmund's snaketail Sensitive Not Documented Polk County Insects Appalachian snaketail Sensitive Not Documented Polk County Terrestrial Species Viability Table 9 lists the terrestrial species of viability concern known from the area. These data are from the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation Natural Heritage Database (2008) and represent the best source of known data for the project area.

Table 9. Terrestrial species of viability concern known from the Conasauga Creek and Wildcat Creek Watersheds Scientific Name Common Name Status Amphibians Cryptobranchus alleganiensis Hellbender State Listed Desmognathus aeneus Seepage Salamander Viability Concern Mammals Napaeozapus insignis Woodland Jumping Mouse State Listed Sorex cinereus Common shrew Viability Concern Sorex fumeus Smoky Shrew State Listed Sorex longirostris Southeastern Shrew State Listed Terrestrial Mollusks Patera archeri Ocoee Covert Sensitive Plants Acer leucoderme Chalk Maple State Listed Agastache scrophulariifolia Purple Giant Hyssop State Listed Coreopsis latifolia Broad-leaved tickseed Sensitive Cypripedium acaule Pink Lady's-slipper Viability Concern Diervilla lonicera Northern Bush-honeysuckle State Listed Eriophorum virginicum Tawny Cotton-grass State Listed Heracleum maximum Cow-parsnip State Listed Lonicera dioica Mountain Honeysuckle State Listed Melanthium latifolium Broadleaf Bunchflower State Listed Panax quinquefolius American Ginseng State Listed Prunus virginiana Choke Cherry State Listed Silene ovata Ovate Catchfly Sensitive Symplocos tinctoria Horse sugar Viability Concern Thermopsis fraxinifolia Ash-leaved bushpea Sensitive Vaccinium macrocarpon Cranberry Sensitive Reptiles Pituophis melanoleucus melanoleucus Northern Pine Snake Viability Concern Opportunities  Survey suitable habitats for species likely to occur in the area. Recommendations/Priorities  Standard operating procedures should be followed regarding rare species protection and conservation.

Forest Health Existing Condition Forest health concerns for the CNF include insects, diseases, and age class distribution. Damage to forest communities occurs in varying degrees depending on community types and species

composition, location on the landscape, age of the forested community, past disturbance, and weather conditions. The suitable management prescriptions include 8.C and 9.H which total approximately 10,100 acres. Much of this suitable land is in the Big Creek Watershed. Some opportunities exist for vegetation management on other lands as well. There is a considerable amount (approximately 10,100 acres) of land that is classified as wilderness and allows no management. However, for the purpose of forest health, all management prescriptions are considered in order to capture the true health of the landscape, as it pertains to public ownership, regardless of our ability to manage. Age Class Distribution Approximately 73 percent (16,300 acres) of the forested acres in the watershed are over 70 years old and approximately less than 1 percent of the forested acres are 0 to 10 years of age. The age class distribution for the watershed is imbalanced, skewed toward the older age classes. Stands of older trees are more vulnerable to periodic disturbances, such as pathogens (diseases), insects or a combination of factors. Gypsy Moth Gypsy moth (Lymantria dispar) is a major defoliator of hardwood trees in both forested and urban landscapes. It was introduced from Europe into Massachusetts sometime between 1867 and 1869. Because the favored host, oak, is widespread in the eastern deciduous forests, gypsy moth thrives and continues to escape its range west and south each year. By the 1980’s, gypsy moth was established throughout the northeast. Today the area considered generally infested includes parts of Virginia, just north of the CNF. Gypsy moth is projected to occur on the forest between the year 2010 and 2025 (SAMAB 1996). The CNF can anticipate gypsy moth attacks on the north end of the forest as early as the year 2010 and for the south end of the forest as early as 2020. Gypsy moth larvae feed on more than 300 species of trees, shrubs, and vines. Favored hosts include oak, apple, birch, basswood, witch hazel, and willow. Hosts moderately favored include maple, hickory, beech, black cherry, elm, and sassafras. Least favored hosts are ash, yellow poplar, American sycamore, hemlock, pine, spruce, black gum, and black locust. Feeding on less favored host plants usually occurs when high-density larval populations defoliate the favored tree species and move to adjacent, less favored species of trees to finish their development. Approximately 46 percent of the forested acres (10,200 acres) are occupied by oak and oak dominated mixed stands that are over the age of 70. These older stands of oak are vulnerable to oak decline and other pest problems. Oak is highly vulnerable to gypsy moth infestation and older oak is less capable of surviving an outbreak. Oak Decline Oak decline is a complex problem characterized by progressive crown dieback and eventual mortality. It is best explained as the interaction of long term predisposing stress factors (drought, tree age, or droughty site factors), short term inciting factors (spring frost, or insect defoliation), and long term contributing factors of biotic origin (root disease, bark beetles, and canker or decay fungi). The most susceptible are older, slow growing oaks on low quality ridge top sites. Red oaks are more susceptible than white oak (USDA Forest Service 1989). Oak decline is most likely to affect the same stands that are vulnerable to gypsy moth.

Hemlock Woolly Adelgid Hemlock woolly adelgid (Adelges tsugae) (HWA) was introduced into the eastern U.S.A from Asia in the early 1950's near Richmond, Virginia. The HWA was present on some exotic tree species that a private collector planted in his arboretum. The distribution of the HWA remained localized until the 1960's. The population has since spread throughout the Shenandoah Valley into the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia and the northeastern U.S.A. Impacts to the host species Tsuga canadensis and T. caroliniana, eastern and Carolina hemlocks, respectively, are severe. The entire range of eastern hemlock is threatened and could be infested within 30 years. Infestation by the HWA has been detected on the north end of the CNF. There are also well-established populations in North Carolina and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park adjacent to much of the CNF. Recently, the adelgid has been found on the Tellico Ranger District. The CNF can expect to see much of its hemlock infested in the near future. Once infested, tree mortality usually occurs in less than seven years. Mortality is not restricted to any size or age of hemlock. This insect pest threatens the hemlock resource and also threatens the unique ecosystem it helps comprise. Hemlock provides habitat for a variety of plants and animals and helps to maintain stream temperatures for a variety of aquatic species. The watershed contains approximately 1,218 acres with hemlock as a primary component of the stands. The CNF HWA Suppression EA and DN (2005) include one hemlock treatment area within this watershed assessment area. The treatment area is located at West Fork of Rough Creek south of Peavine Ridge and Chestnut Ridge with three additional areas within 1 mile of the boundary. Southern Pine Beetle The SPB (Dendroctonus frontalis Zimmermann) is the most destructive pine bark beetle in Tennessee and the southern U.S.A (USDA Forest Service 2004). Pine trees are killed singly, in small groups, or in large numbers, sometimes exceeding hundreds of acres. The SPB is a native pest to the South and occurs in small numbers (endemic) until outbreak or epidemic population levels develop. Infestations can develop into outbreak levels when pine forests are stressed by crowded growing conditions, trees are damaged from ice or wind, during drought conditions, or when stands are considered biologically mature. These stress conditions can often prevent the tree from producing adequate resin flow to "pitch out" the attacking insect, which is the tree’s main defense in a SPB attack. Once pine stands are weakened, they become more susceptible to attack by SPB. Once populations develop in weakened trees, the beetles may spread to healthy trees that normally would resist attack. When beetle populations become large (epidemic), they can successfully attack healthy, vigorous trees and result in widespread mortality. Natural enemies, including diseases, parasites, and predators (primarily the clerid beetle) can help maintain beetle populations at endemic levels. However, these forces seem to have relatively little effect during the early stages of an epidemic when SPB populations explode faster than parasite and predator populations respond to the availability of new host beetle levels. Ultimately, however, these biocontrol agents catch up with and actually exceed the abundant host beetles (food source) and contribute to the collapse of the epidemic. Most major outbreaks last three to five years and occur in irregular cycles of about seven to ten years, sometimes longer in the mountain region.

The SPB attacks all species of pines including white pine, but prefers loblolly, shortleaf, Virginia, and pitch pines all of which are native to the CNF. Pine is a significant component of the forested communities on the CNF and represents large portion of the CNF. The CNF and much of east Tennessee experienced a severe outbreak of southern pine beetle between 1999 and 2002. Many of the stands in the watershed contain a component of Virginia, pitch, shortleaf, table mountain or white pine; often in small amounts which are not reflected by the given forest types. The stands affected by SPB sustained various degrees of mortality from slight to nearly total. Approximately 600 acres of this SPB affected area is planned for pine-oak restoration under existing decisions. Most of the pine mortality occurred in stands over the age of 60. The watershed contains approximately 5,436 acres of yellow pine stands and approximately 1,506 acres of yellow pine/oak forest types for a total of 6,942 acres, which is 31 percent of the forested acreage. About 60 percent (4,195 acres) of the yellow pine dominated acreage is over the age of 60. The watershed contains approximately 3,371 acres of Virginia pine stands and approximately 684 acres of Virginia pine oak forest types for a total of 4,055 acres. About 79 percent (3200 acres) of the Virginia pine dominated acreage is over the age of 60. Virginia pine is shorter lived than other yellow pine species such as shortleaf and pitch pine. The older Virginia pine stands tend to be overstocked and are at risk of southern pine beetle infestation. Grapevine Control There are areas of heavy grapevine in rich, productive mesic coves and drainages. Many of these areas are on the border of the project area or just adjacent too. While some amount of grapevine is very beneficial to wildlife, a balance of soft mast from the grapevines along with hard mast from oaks and hickories is most favorable. Currently, many of these grapevine sites are showing measurable damage to the timber presently on the site. Many of these sites have great potential to sustain productive hardwoods that will benefit wildlife and produce quality wood products. A better balance between productive hard mast producing timber and soft mast producing grapevines should be considered on some of these mesic sites occupied by such a great number of grapevines alone. Opportunities In summary, the primary forest health concerns within the Big Creek Upper Ocoee Watershed area include insects, diseases, invasive species, and it’s close relationship tied to age class distribution. Management opportunities and recommendations include regeneration, thinning, and prescribed burning.  Regenerate stands in the older age classes using even aged and two aged regeneration methods. Concentrate regeneration efforts in oak dominated stands greater than 70 years old, and in yellow pine stands greater than 60 years old. There is an opportunity to regenerate as much as 702 acres in 8.C, and 28 acres in 9.H. There may be opportunities for vegetation management in other MP’s that are unsuitable but permit these activities.

 There may be opportunities to regenerate Virginia pine stands and restore them to shortleaf or pitch pine, contain white pine in more riparian areas and limit their spread into drier sites more suitable for oaks, use artificial regeneration (planting) to establish

shortleaf pine on appropriate sites, maintain oak and pine dominated forest types with periodic prescribed fire, and control the spread while returning some areas currently occupied by grapevine to timber that will benefit wildlife while producing quality timber products.

 Intermediate treatments such as commercial and noncommercial thinning can be used to reduce basal area in overstocked stands. There may be opportunities in the Big Creek Upper Ocoee Watershed for the enhancement of advanced oak regeneration by using midstory treatments.

 There is an opportunity to expand treatments of HWA in this watershed. Immediate needs are assessing condition of hemlocks and expanding NEPA coverage.

 Longer term needs include assessing new treatments methods (new NEPA?) and considering methods for restoration. Recommendations/Priorities  Develop process for assessing hemlocks and complete NEPA if necessary. Resource Management Programs

Recreation Related Programs Existing Condition GOAL 30 Provide a spectrum of high quality nature-based recreation settings and opportunities that reflect the unique or exceptional resources of the CNF and the interest of the recreating public on an environmentally sound and financially sustainable basis. Adapt management of recreation facilities and opportunities as needed to shift limited resources to those opportunities.

 Mountain biking, long distance back country (Benton MacKaye Trail), Big Frog Wilderness (several trails into BF Wilderness) scenic driving, picnicking, primitive camping, fishing, hunting, horseback developed camping-Tumbling Creek.

GOAL 31 Where financially and environmentally feasible, encourage the following opportunities: water-based activities, sightseeing, camping, hunting, fishing, driving for pleasure, wildlife viewing/nature study, day-use and group facilities, non-motorized trail systems for hiking biking and equestrian use, designated OHV routes, special interest areas, interpretation and conservation education.

 BMT, Big Frog Wilderness trails, OWC bike trails. Ocoee # 3 Lake access. Limited lake access at #3 lake.

GOAL 32 Develop, enhance and maintain systems of non-motorized and motorized trails within the capabilities of the land and appropriate to the desire ROS class. Emphasize multi-use non- motorized trails where appropriate and where user conflict can be minimized. Provide separate-

use trails where necessary to reduce use conflicts or to improve the quality of recreation experiences.

 Existing Big Frog Mnt trails, bike trails at OWC.

GOAL 33 Emphasize opportunities to create networks and loops for new trail construction.

 No other trailheads or new trail related facilities proposed. There is sufficient trail access to the Big Frog area. User created trails need to be inventoried. Opportunities GOAL 30 Provide a spectrum of high quality nature-based recreation settings and opportunities that reflect the unique or exceptional resources of the CNF and the interest of the recreating public on an environmentally sound and financially sustainable basis. Adapt management of recreation facilities and opportunities as needed to shift limited resources to those opportunities  Big Frog recreation zone features opportunities for hiking, primitive camping hunting and equestrian use. The zone is adjacent to the Conasauga RD on the Chatt. NF. There is an existing horse camp located outside the WS that provides trail access into the Big Creek WS. Infrastructure improvements should be limited to existing facilities and a developing a network of designated equestrian trails and closed roads to provide multiple day-riding opportunities. Review possibility of sanitation facilities at Big Ck dispersed sites.

 Use volunteer or adopt-a-trail program to keep trails maintained to FS standards. Look at Ocoee # 3 boater access improvements or limitations. Primitive camping management along Big Creek and Tumbling Creek.

 See Sylco Horse Trail Complex opportunities below. Consider developing multi-use connector trail from Tumbling Ck CG to OWC trail complex.

GOAL 33 Emphasize opportunities to create networks and loops for new trail construction.

 Equestrian Use – Multiple day-ride opportunities should be featured in Big Frog recreation zone (Manage equestrian day-ride trail opportunities that offer a minimum of

12 miles (3 hrs of riding time). Close equestrian trails that can’t provide this type of opportunity. Recommendations/Priorities

Heritage Resources Existing Condition Opportunities Recommendations/Priorities

Forest Products Existing Condition The assessment area contains existing forest conditions which could require vegetation management to meet various RLRMP objectives (12.01, 12.02, 17.01, 17.02, 17.03, 17.04, 17.05, 17.06, and 17.08). Table 10 displays the existing number of acres within the assessment area that could potentially be treated to meet RLRMP objectives and produce forest products. These acres are generally associated with the 8.C and 9.H MPs. Some opportunities for management exist in other prescription areas as well. Table 10. Existing Condition Associated with RLRMP Objectives Forest Plan Potential Acres in Objective Existing Condition 12.01 6 12.02 2,805 17.01 184 17.02 2,397 17.03 1,785 17.04 134 17.05 1,523 17.06 812 17.08 1,343 18.02 (pine/pine- 3,446 oak) 18.02 (oak/oak- 4,332 pine) The existing forest age class distribution of the assessment area indicates that 74 percent of the forested acres are over the age of 70 years. Less than 1 percent of the assessment area is in the 0 to 10 year age class. MP 8C-1.01 states “Strive for a 125 year rotation. Manage forest successional stages to maintain a minimum of 65 percent of forested acres in mid- late-successional forest, including old growth; a minimum of 20 percent of forested acres in late-successional forest, including old growth; and 4 to 8 percent in early-successional forest.” There are approximately 9,795 acres of MP 8.C in

the watershed, of which approximately 87 acres are in the 0 to 10 year age class. There is an opportunity for an additional 305 to 697 acres in the 0 to 10 age class. Objective 9H –1.01 states “Manage forest successional stages to maintain a minimum of 50 percent of forested acres in mid to late successional forest, including old growth; a minimum of 20 percent of forested acres in late successional forest including old growth; and 4 to 10 percent of forested acres in early successional forest.” There are approximately 282 acres of MP 9.H in the watershed, none of which is in the 0 to 10 year age class. There is an opportunity for an additional 11 to 28 acres in the 0 to 10 age class. Other management prescriptions in the watershed are unsuitable. MPs 1.A, 1.B, 5.A, 5.B, 7.A, 7.D and 11 allow limited or no vegetation management for purposes other than timber production. Thinning, uneven aged regeneration, savanna restoration and other treatments to meet RLRMP objectives may produce timber volume. Opportunities A range of 316-725 acres of the assessment area would be in an early succession condition to meet habitat and ecological conditions/objectives associated with the RLRMP. Vegetation management treatments needed to implement the early successional habitat objective would result in a timber harvest of about 8,996 ccf every ten years if the minimum amount of 0 to 10 year age class was needed and produced, but could be higher if the maximum amount of 0 to 10 year age class was needed and produced. Thinning and other treatments needed to meet RLRMP objectives could produce additional volumes of sawtimber and pulpwood. Recommendations/Priorities

Special Uses/Lands Existing Condition GOAL 37: Obtain full public ownership of lands within wilderness boundaries, including subsurface rights. RESPONSE: Full public ownership of lands within the Big Frog and Little Frog Wilderness areas exists in the assessment area.

Party Utility Line Location From Ocoee No. 3 powerhouse southeasterly on south side of the Ocoee TVA Ocoee #2 - Ocoee #3 river to the east side of Ocoee No. 3 lake Appalachia- Ocoee From Ocoee No. 3 powerhouse #3 & Appalachia- southeasterly on north side of the Ocoee TVA Basin Line river to T4S, R5E, Sec. 18

T2S, R4E, Sec. 36, 1/4 SW. Approx. 78' Tri-State Electric O'Neal Rd (NFSR with a 10' R/W. Buried 2'-4' below Coop. 33622) Buried Line ground along NFSR 33622. From the eastern boundary of the Ocoee Tri-State Electric RD along Hwy 64 to the whitewater Coop. Hwy 64 Buried Line center. Tri-State Electric Sheep top Buried From Hwy 64 along NFSR 338A to Sheep Coop. Line Top communication site. T2S, R4E, Sec. 25. R/W along county rd Tri-State Electric A074, then north and south to private land Coop. CR A074 Line along Messer Rd (CR259)

One communication site (Sheep Top) exists within the assessment area. It is located at T2S, R4E, Sec. 14 at the terminus of NFSR 338A. The tower and building are owned and operated by Crown Castle International.

GOAL 53: NFS lands are consolidated to improve management effectiveness and enhance public benefits. RESPONSE: One block of private land exists in the assessment area at T2S, R4E, Sec. 26, ¼ SE; T2S, R4E, Sec. 35, ¼ NE; T2S, R4E, Sec. 36, ¼ NW south of Tumbling Creek Campground. The block contains approximately 50+ private parcels surrounded by NFS lands.

GOAL 55: Resolve all known title claims and encroachments affecting NFS lands. RESPONSE: There are none known at this time.

OBJECTIVE 55.01: Title claims and encroachments affecting lands are to be document prioritized for resolution each fiscal year and resolved within the constraints of the applicable authority. RESPONSE: A filing cabinet exists at the Ocoee Ranger Station that contains claims and encroachments. The District has addressed and resolved claims as they have arisen.

Opportunities GOAL 37: Obtain full public ownership of lands within wilderness boundaries, including subsurface rights. RESPONSE: None.

GOAL 52: Utility corridors and communication sites on NFS lands are located and managed to minimize adverse environmental, social, and impacts to scenery; minimize acres of land affected; designed using good engineering and technological practices; and clearly benefit society. RESPONSE: Existing sites and corridors can be utilized whenever feasible. The FS can work with utility and communication companies during the proposal screening and application processing phases to develop plans and locations that minimize environmental, social, and scenic impacts to NFS lands as well as to assure they clearly benefit society. Designs should be engineered by a qualified and licensed engineer and approved by FS engineering staff. Roads

associated with utility corridors and communication sites should be located and maintained to standards of repair that minimize surface runoff.

GOAL 53: NFS lands are consolidated to improve management effectiveness and enhance public benefits. RESPONSE: Assess the social, economic, and environmental benefits/ consequences of acquiring the block of private land surrounded by NFS land located south of Tumbling Creek Campground. Determine if public ownership of said block is in the public interest and/or needed to accomplish long-term goals and objectives for the Forest.

GOAL 55: Resolve all known title claims and encroachments affecting NFS lands. RESPONSE: Research lands and special uses files for ongoing or existing title claims and encroachments.

OBJECTIVE 55.01: Title claims and encroachments affecting lands are to be document prioritized for resolution each fiscal year and resolved within the constraints of the applicable authority. RESPONSE: Prioritize title claims and encroachments during Quarter 1 each fiscal year. Retain a master list of resolved cases organized by fiscal year. Recommendation/Priorities GOAL 37: Obtain full public ownership of lands within wilderness boundaries, including subsurface rights. RESPONSE: None.

GOAL 52: Utility corridors and communication sites on NFS lands are located and managed to minimize adverse environmental, social, and impacts to scenery; minimize acres of land affected; designed using good engineering and technological practices; and clearly benefit society. RESPONSE: Deny proposals that cannot demonstrate minimization of impacts to NFS resources. Deny proposals that do not clearly benefit society. Deny proposals where new corridor or communication sites are proposed to only benefit one individual and the individual cannot clearly demonstrate that NFS lands are the only feasible location.

GOAL 53: NFS lands are consolidated to improve management effectiveness and enhance public benefits. RESPONSE: Seek funding and acquisition of private block of land south of Tumbling Creek if analysis shows that acquisition is in the public interest.

GOAL 55: Resolve all known title claims and encroachments affecting NFS lands. RESPONSE: Contact possible trespassers and claimants to seek resolution within the applicable laws. Survey possible trespasses where boundaries are not clearly identified.

OBJECTIVE 55.01: Title claims and encroachments affecting lands are to be document prioritized for resolution each fiscal year and resolved within the constraints of the applicable authority. RESPONSE: Document title claims and encroachments and resolution achieved. File title claims, encroachments, and resolutions using file code 5400.

Prescribed and Wildland Fire Existing Condition Fuel Treatment Units UNIT ACRES TREATMENT TREATMENT CURRENT HISTORY PLANNED CONDITION O-41 Broadcast Burn Little Frog within 5-10 Condition Wilderness 3942 acres None years Class-2 & 3 Broadcast Burn O-48 within 5-10 Condition Big Creek 1362 acres None years Class-2 & 3 Broadcast Burn O-51 within 5-10 Condition Rough Creek 1590 acres March 2005 years Class-2 Broadcast Burn O-52 within 5-10 Condition Laurel Branch 735 acres March 1999 years Class-2

Broadcast Burn O-53 within 5-10 Condition Stillhouse 955 acres None years Class-2&3 Broadcast Burn O-57 3375 2008 within 5-10 Condition Pace Gap 3375 acres 1550 1999 years Class-2 Broadcast Burn O-58 within 5-10 Condition Brown Camp 1067 acres None years Class-2 & 3 O-59 Big Frog Condition Wilderness 10,544 acres None None Class-2&3 Opportunities  @10,000 acres are in a Wilderness Area. The FLMP does not allow Rx burning in the Wilderness at this time. Wilderness Plan would have to be written.  O-51 and O-52 are planned for 2012 Rx Burning.  All above units may be burned in the next 3-7 years  At this time all wildfires will be suppressed.  Wildfire occurring in the watershed would require a Fire Management Plan in place and an implementation plan approved for the area, to be managed for fire use fire .

Recommendations/Priorities

Roads and Access This resource program is addressed in Appendix B - RAP.

Key Opportunities/Priorities (developed after report is finished)

Appendices Opportunity Table RAP

References Physical Elements

Biological Elements

Southern Appalachian Man and the Biosphere (SAMAB). 1996. Terrestrial Technical Report.

USDA Forest Service. 2005. CNF HWA Suppression EA and DN.

USDA Forest Service. 2004. Final Environmental Impact Statement for the Cherokee National Forest. Cleveland, Tennessee.

USDA Forest Service. 1989. Protection Report R8-PR 17, Evaluating Oak Decline Areas in the South.

Resource Management Programs

Big Creek Upper Ocoee Ecosystem Assessment

2004 Revised Plan Goals & Objectives Existing Opportunities Possible Condition Management Practices GOAL 1 Watersheds are managed (and where necessary Only known Stabilize roads Decommission restored) to provide resilient and stable conditions to support the problems are or stabilize quality and quantity of water necessary to protect ecological associated with functions and support intended beneficial water uses. poorly located roads lower big creek OBJECTIVE 1.01 Soil and water improvement needs (necessary to help restore watershed condition) are prioritized annually based on findings in watershed analyses. Collaborate with adjacent landowners to identify and prioritize watershed improvement projects affecting multiple ownerships. OBJECTIVE 1.02 In 5th level watershed with impaired waters, Ocoee #3 is Cooperate with Increase examine possible partnership opportunities with state and local the only 303d EPA, TDEC & recreational agencies and other interested individuals and entities to address listed water Glenn Springs in opportunities in impairment issues. body in the monitoring reservoir Analysis Area recovery OBJECTIVE 1.03 Any specific soil and water mitigation Tumbling Increase Create better needed (in addition to Forest plan direction) for source water Creek and its recreational use boater access to protection watersheds will be determined as watershed embayment in on Ocoee #3 Ocoee #3 by assessment and project planning is completed. Ocoee #3 are improving the impacted by road road 221L OBJECTIVE 1.04 Cooperate and coordinate with state and No impaired local agencies in the development of science based Total waters on maximum daily Loads (TMDLs) for impaired waters with Forest national forest ownership in the watersheds. GOAL 2 Manage instream flows and water levels, by working Ocoee #3 is Cooperate with Increase with other agencies if possible, to protect stream processes the only 303d EPA, TDEC & recreational aquatic and riparian habitats and communities, and recreation and listed water Glenn Springs in opportunities in aesthetic values body in the monitoring reservoir Analysis Area recovery OBJECTIVE 2.01 The instream flows needed to protect stream processes, aquatic and riparian habitats and communities, and recreation and aesthetic values will be determined on selected streams as identified by the CNF. GOAL 3 Maintain or improve watershed condition and stream Only known Stabilize roads Decommission or channel conditions to limit the amount of sediment to levels that problems are stabilize will not adversely affect channel capacity, beneficial uses of associated with water and regulatory designations (ORNW/Wild and Scenic etc.) poorly located roads GOAL 4 Restore streams that are degraded from acidic impacts Ocoee #3 is Cooperate with Increase or other perturbations to meet their intended beneficial uses. the only 303d EPA, TDEC & recreational listed water Glenn Springs in opportunities in body in the monitoring reservoir Analysis Area recovery GOAL 5 Stability of stream banks and channels is protected during management activities. Channeled ephemeral stream zones are managed to minimize sediment transport.

2004 Revised Plan Goals & Objectives Existing Opportunities Possible Condition Management Practices OBJECTIVE 5.01 Channeled ephemeral streams are managed in a manner that retains and provides for the recruitment of large woody debris. OBJECTIVE 5.02 Soil disturbing activities are implemented and facilities are maintained to minimize impacts to the channeled ephemeral stream zone. GOAL 6 Design and implement projects in ways that will maintain or improve the long-term productive capacity of the soil resource. GOAL 7 Management activities will be designed to minimize air pollution originating on the CNF. GOAL 8 During mechanical disturbance on all soils dedicated to growing forest vegetation, the organic layers, topsoil and root mat will be left in place over 85 percent of a project area. GOAL 9 Consider evaluating opportunities for restoration of Small amounts Little to none. None canebrakes through watershed assessments. of cane exist at scattered locations, but no large, concentrated areas. No broad river floodplains. GOAL 10 Maintain and restore natural communities in amounts, Large areas of HWA treatments Expanded HWA arrangements, and conditions capable of supporting viable hemlock and/or treatments populations, of existing native and desired non-native plants, fish, affected by Restoration in and wildlife species within the planning area. HWA will be these areas?? altered habitats in future years. GOAL 11 Encourage maintenance of forest as a land use on private lands within and surrounding national forest through land acquisitions, agreements, and education, in order to maximize benefits of national forest lands to area sensitive forest interior species. GOAL 12 Provide breeding, wintering, and migration staging and stopover habitat for migratory birds in ways that contributes to their long-term conservation. OBJECTIVE 12.01 Maintain at least 1000 acres above 3000 1855 acres Create 0-10 Create 0-10 by feet elevation in habitats characterized by grassy/herbaceous All within burning or ground cover. This acreage may be comprised of open wilderness allowing wildfires woodlands, savannas, and grasslands; old fields; and regenerating areas EXCEPT to burn forests (0-10 years old). 13 ACRES OBJECTIVE 12.02 During the first ten years of plan 4610 acres Create gaps on Small group or implementation, cooperate with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to approximately single tree increase structural habitat diversity in up to 5 percent of closed- 200 acres selection and canopied mid-and late successional mesic deciduous forest, thinning. including old growth restoration areas, by retaining large trees and creating small canopy gaps suitable for Cerulean warbler and associated species. GOAL 13 Maintain or increase habitats for those species needing Black bear large, contiguous forested landscapes, and where the reserve south management of NFS Lands can make a difference in their of lake populations and viability.

2004 Revised Plan Goals & Objectives Existing Opportunities Possible Condition Management Practices OBJECTIVE 13.01 No new additional open road access will be Black bear Plan roads Plan roads provided in bear reserves. No motorized public off road use will reserve according to according to be allowed in bear reserves. black bear black bear requirements in requirements in 8C 8C GOAL 14 Contribute to conservation and recovery of federally No T or E. Survey Survey for TES listed threatened and endangered species, and avoid actions that S: Thermopsis would lead to federally listing of other species under the fraxinifolia, Endangered Species Act. Coreopsis latifolia, Silene ovate, Patera archeri OBJECTIVE 14.01 In cooperation with partners develop and NA NA None implement monitoring plans for all T&E species during the next 10-year period. Develop and implement conservation strategies for sensitive species or groups of species. OBJECTIVE 14.02 Provide upland water sources Lacking Provide Create sources in approximately every 0.5 miles, to provide an important habitat additional landings, temp element for wildlife, including the endangered Indiana bat. sources roads, Waters sources are comprised of both permanent ponds and ephemerals etc. ephemeral pools and are often located in openings or near road corridors that allow access by bats. OBJECTIVE 14.03 The following objectives are established to NA NA None contribute to the recovery of threatened, endangered and candidate species over the life of the LMP. GOAL 15 Minimize adverse effects of invasive non-native Invasives Treatments Treatments species. Control such species where feasible and necessary to present: protect national forest resources. Paulownia along FSR 221 in vicinity of Peavine Ridge Microstegium Autumn olive fescue OBJECTIVE 15.01 Document the presence absence of the SOP SOP SOP following invasive species during project level inventories. OBJECTIVE 15.02 Control non-native and unwanted native Mostly along Look near SOP species, where they threaten TES elements ecological integrity of roads and wilderness communities, or habitats created for demand species. disturbed areas boundary

GOAL 16 Manage through protection, maintenance, or Existing Forest None identified None identified restoration, a variety of large, medium, and small old growth Plan patches to provide biological and social benefits. allocations provide for this. OBJECTIVE 16.01 Map patches as discovered, of old growth 202 acres meet Field Map and protect identified during stand examination. Complete field verification age criterion. investigations to any areas that of possible existing old growth areas in our current inventory. ground-truth fully meet old possible old growth criteria. growth stands. GOAL 17 Restore and maintain forest communities to those See goal 10. plant communities predicted as most likely to occur based on the ecological potential of the site potential natural vegetation.

2004 Revised Plan Goals & Objectives Existing Opportunities Possible Condition Management Practices OBJECTIVE 17.01 Over the ten-year period, restore at least 184 acres Thin or Thin or 5000 acres of diverse native communities appropriate to sites regenerate regenerate currently occupied by white pine plantations. OBJECTIVE 17.02 Over the 10-year period, restore oak or oak- 2963 acres Regen pine forests on at least 9,000 acres of appropriate sites currently opportunities, occupied by pine plantations or other sites with minimal white pine diversity. removal, TSI, burn plant oak if needed OBJECTIVE 17.03 Over the 10-year period, restore at least 1785 acres Timber harvest, 10,000 acres of shortleaf/pitch/table-mountain pine forests. TSI, prescribed burn OBJECTIVE 17.04 Over the 10-year period, restore at least 300 134 acres Timber harvest acres to appropriate native communities currently occupied by and or prescribed loblolly pine plantations. burn OBJECTIVE 17.05 Over the 10-year period, reduce the acreage 1523 acres Regen of Virginia pine forest by at least 25,000 acres, through opportunities, restoration of fire-adapted pine or oak communities. TSI, tree planting OBJECTIVE 17.06 Restore at least 5,700 acres in dry and xeric 812 acres Group selection, oak and pine-oak forests to open woodlands, savannas, and thinning, Rx fire grasslands over a 10-year period. OBJECTIVE 17.07 For northern hardwood, mixed mesophytic, 1858 acres Passive and river floodplain hardwood, maintain a minimum of 75 objective- percent of total forest-wide acreage in mid- and late-successional Consider when conditions, and a minimum of 50 percent in late-successional planning other conditions, including old growth. treatments OBJECTIVE 17.08 Thin an average of at least 100 acres per 1026 acres Thin year of shortleaf/pitch pine forest, in an effort to maintain a target basal area of approximately 60-80 square feet per acre. OBJECTIVE 17.09 Convert fescue fields (140 acres) to native 7 linear Treat fescue with Re-seed with grasses within a 10-year period where practical. openings: herbicide during natives or allow 33272, 369, winter months natural re-growth 1376, 333501, 334501, 221E, 334502 24 spot openings 28 acres GOAL 18 Contribute to maintenance or restoration of native tree species whose role in forest ecosystems is threatened by insects and disease. Management activities will reduce the impacts from non-native invasive species. OBJECTIVE 18.01 Encourage reintroduction of extirpated or Consider Continue contact Consider planting declining native species when technologically feasible. These planting with ACF. Note chestnut. species include, but are not limited to, American chestnut, chestnut butternut during Continue treating butternut, hemlock, dogwood, Fraser fir, and red spruce. Develop continue exams/surveys. hemlock. partnerships with universities, groups and other agencies to treating Continue facilitate reintroduction of native species. hemlock. cooperation with UT on butternut.

2004 Revised Plan Goals & Objectives Existing Opportunities Possible Condition Management Practices OBJECTIVE 18.02 Promote the health of susceptible forest Pine/pine Stand exams to Timber harvest, communities by maintaining a site-specific basal area that oak>= 60 determine intermediate promotes tree vigor. Encourage advanced regeneration of oak years= 1425 Ac treatment needs treatments, thin, species. oak/oak and Rx fire pine>=70 years=4072 Ac

OBJECTIVE 18.03 Use IPM (see Gypsy Moth EIS, 1995) to Not issue at Remain vigilant, protect resources from damage cause by gypsy moth and other this time Encourage forest insects and diseases utilizing the most appropriate species diversity technique. OBJECTIVE 18.04 Identify and track SPB infestations and Not issue at Remain vigilant, suppress where appropriate and feasible. Follow directions in this time Encourage SPB EIS or other current direction. species diversity GOAL 19 Where forest management activities are needed and appropriate to achieve the desired composition, structure, function, productivity, public health and safety, and sustainability of forest ecosystems; a result of such activities will also be to provide wood products for local needs. OBJECTIVE 19.01 Provide 33,726 MCF of sawtimber per 8996 from Harvesting decade. Restoration Stategy OBJECTIVE 19.02 Provide 6,242 MCF of pulpwood per Above figure Harvesting decade. includes pulpwood GOAL 20 Provide supplies of those wood products including firewood where the Forest Service is in a position to make an impact on meeting the demand for those products. GOAL 21 Use fire during dormant and growing seasons to 8 established Burn @ 6,000 Rx Fire achieve ecological sustainability, rehabilitation, and restoration of burn blocks Acres in the next fire dependant and associated communities. Identify and establish within or partial 5-7 years appropriate “burning blocks” that facilitate the use of prescribed assessment fire to maintain and restore fire dependant and associated area @ 21,600 communities. FS acres within watershed @ 4,500 acres treated in past 10 years OBJECTIVE 21.01 Prescribe burn an average of at least 1,100 1785 acres Rx Fire acres per year of shortleaf/pitch/table-mountain pine forest, in an effort to maintain a fire return cycle of 4-12 years. OBJECTIVE 21.02 Prescribe burn an average of at least 5,200 3770 acres Rx Fire acres per year of oak and oak-pine forests in an effort to maintain a 4-12 year fire return cycle. OBJECTIVE 21.03 Prescribe burn an average of 2,600 acres None existing per year of open [dry and xeric oak forests] woodlands, savannas, and grasslands, in an effort to maintain a fire return cycle of 4-12 years in dry and xeric oak forests, woodland, grasslands, and savannas. [two objectives: create, maintain] OBJECTIVE 21.04 Prescribe burn an average of at least 1,200 1506 Rx Fire acres per year of pine-oak forests, in an effort to maintain a fire return cycle of 4-12 years.

2004 Revised Plan Goals & Objectives Existing Opportunities Possible Condition Management Practices GOAL 22 Achieve a balance between suppression to protect life, Limited options Develop wildfire Rx Fire property, and resources, and fire use to regulate fuels and for wildland fire use plan to be maintain healthy ecosystems. Use wildland fire to protect, use due to 90% able to use maintain, and enhance resources, and, as nearly as possible, allow of fires human wildfires to it to function in its natural ecological role. caused. achieve goal. GOAL 23 Fire dependent ecosystem components are maintained Class 1 acres Burn Rx Fire by desired fire regimes. Restore and maintain fire associated and Class 2 acres Include condition dependent landscapes by moving them from condition class 2 and Class 3 acres class in 3 to condition class 1. monitoring data. Establish rotation to maintain CC1 in Non wilderness areas GOAL 24 Reduce hazardous fuels through wildland fire use, 8 established Use appropriate Rx Fire prescribed fire, and mechanical fuels treatment. burn blocks suppression within or partial tactics to balance assessment suppression area @ 4500 activities with acres treated in ecological past 10 years. benefits No mechanical to date. No wildland fire use to date OBJECTIVE 24.01 Reduce hazardous fuels between 19,000 Covered by Burn RX Fire and 60,000 acres per year with priority given to areas affected by burning blocks, Since no private insects, diseases, storm damage, and along NFS boundaries with except in property high values at risk. wilderness. mechanical treatments not likely OBJECTIVE 24.02 Minimize the acreage of mixed mesophytic _____ acres in Minimize acreage Ignition patterns and northern hardwood forest prescribed burned annually, within FT. burned. Burn parameters the constraints of meeting other prescribe fire objectives and Review each Containment without resulting large increases in plowed or bladed fireline burn block for boundary layout. construction. impacts to this FT during burn plan process. GOAL 25 Emissions from prescribed fire will not hinder the Use smoke Follow burning Burn parameters state’s progress toward attaining air quality standards and screening prescription for Establish wind visibility goals. process in each burn. speed and each burn plan Monitor smoke direction in burn to mitigate impacts outside plan process to smoke impacts assessment mitigate/maintain Remain within area. air quality state MAVs. standards. Class 2 air quality within assessment area.

2004 Revised Plan Goals & Objectives Existing Opportunities Possible Condition Management Practices GOAL 26 Enhance public understanding of and appreciation for Develop CNF’s natural and cultural resources and their management in multimedia order to foster their wise use and conservation. program for public for conservation and sustainable use of the natural and cultural resources of the forest. Doug/ /Andy OBJECTIVE 26.01 Develop a forest wide inventory of Develop a interpretive opportunities and facilities within five years. separate program for the identification and categorization of interpretive opportunities and facilities based upon a five year schedule. Doug/ /Andy OBJECTIVE 26.02 Develop and provide a wide range of Develop a interpretive media to enhance visitor experiences. multimedia program (print, audio, Ipod, cd, commercial tv and radio, kiosk, etc., to enhance visitor understanding and experiences while visiting. Doug/ /Andy GOAL 27 Provide Forest audiences with the foundation of Ocoee River at The OWC is an Provide knowledge needed to become informed participants in public the Ocoee excellent site for information on lands resource management. Whitewater aquatic education fish and other Center is aquatic life that popular for may be seen at swimming & the OWC has a good fish community GOAL 28 Build trust and credibility for the agency’s programs and missions by forging connections between people and their natural and cultural heritage. GOAL 29 Encourage cooperation and partnerships with individuals, non-profit organizations, other agencies, special- interest groups, clubs and others to achieve the CNF’s interpretive and educational mission.

2004 Revised Plan Goals & Objectives Existing Opportunities Possible Condition Management Practices GOAL 30 Provide a spectrum of high quality nature-based Mountain Big Frog Focused on the recreation settings and opportunities that reflect the unique or biking, long recreation zone recreation niche exceptional resources of the CNF and the interest of the distance back features for Big Frog zone recreating public on an environmentally sound and financially country opportunities for as described and sustainable basis. Adapt management of recreation facilities and (Benton hiking, primitive align visitor opportunities as needed to shift limited resources to those MacKaye camping hunting information, opportunities. Trail), Big Frog and equestrian facilities, roads Wilderness use. The zone is and trails to (several trails adjacent to the provide these into BF Conasauga RD opportunities to Wilderness) on the Chatt. NF. standard. Scenic driving, There is an picnicking, existing horse Do not add primative camp located infrastructure that camping, outside the WS cannot be fishing, that provides sustained hunting, trail access into financially. Seek horseback the Big Creek partnerships. developed WS. camping- Infrastructure Thunder Rock- improvements Tumbling should be limited Creek. to existing facilities and a developing a network of designated equestrian trails and closed roads to provide multiple day- riding opportunities. Review possibility of sanitation facilities at Big Ck dispeased sites.

2004 Revised Plan Goals & Objectives Existing Opportunities Possible Condition Management Practices GOAL 31 Where financially and environmentally feasible, BMT, Big Frog Use volunteer or Limit hp motors encourage the following opportunities: water-based activities, Wilderness adopt-a-trail on Ocoee # 3 sightseeing, camping, hunting, fishing, driving for pleasure, trails, OWWC program to keep Lake to 15 HP or wildlife viewing/nature study, day-use and group facilities, non- bike trails. trails maintained restrict gas motorized trail systems for hiking biking and equestrian use, Ocoee # 3 to FS standards. engines entirely. designated OHV routes, special interest areas, interpretation and Lake access. Look at Ocoee # conservation education. Limited lake 3 boater access access at #3 improvements or lake. limitations. Primitive camping management along Big Creek and Tumbling Creek. OBJECTIVE 31.01 Provide the appropriate site-specific combination of recreation facilities, services, public information and enforcement to minimize wildlife access to human food and trash. GOAL 32 Develop, enhance and maintain systems of non- Existing Big See Sylco Horse motorized and motorized trails within the capabilities of the land Frog Mnt trails, Trail Complex and appropriate to the desire ROS class. Emphasize multi-use bike trails at opportunities non-motorized trails where appropriate and where user conflict OWWC. below. Consider can be minimized. Provide separate-use trails where necessary to developing reduce use conflicts or to improve the quality of recreation connector trail experiences. from Tumbling ck CG to OWWC trail complex. GOAL 33 Emphasize opportunities to create networks and loops Sylco Horse Equestrian Use – for new trail construction. Trail – the Multiple day-ride trailhead and a opportunities horse camp in should be Georgia are featured in Big outside the Frog recreation WS. No other zone (Manage trailheads or or equestrian day- facilities ride trail proposed. opportunities that User created offer a minimum trails need to of 12 miles (3 hrs be inventoried. of riding time). Close equestrian trails that can’t provide this type of opportunity. GOAL 34 Manage five nationally designated trails for their Doug/Andy unique scenic, recreational and or historic attributes. These include Appalachian National Scenic Trail, Warriors Passage National Recreation Trail, John Muir National Recreation Trail, Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail, and Unicoi Turnpike National Millennium Trail.

2004 Revised Plan Goals & Objectives Existing Opportunities Possible Condition Management Practices GOAL 35 Manage areas to provide “backcountry” (Semi- Doug/Andy primitive motorized and non-motorized/remote) recreation experiences that are generally not available on other land ownerships OBJECTIVE 35.01 Manage at least 75,000 acres outside Andy designated Wilderness for backcountry recreation. (Inclusive but not limited to 12.A, 12.B, and 1.B) GOAL 36 Wilderness, recommended wilderness study area and Doug/Andy roadless areas are managed to provide their full range of social and ecological benefits OBJECTIVE 36.01 Utilize parameters set for management of Andy individual wildernesses as developed through the Limits of Acceptable Change process and documented in Wilderness Implementation Schedules. OBJECTIVE 36.02 Manage approximately 20,000 acres of Andy Recommended Wilderness Study Areas (Rx 1.B) as Wilderness until Congress decides whether or not to include the areas I n the National Wilderness Preservation System. GOAL 37 Obtain full public ownership of lands within Full ownership None None wilderness boundaries, including subsurface rights. exists GOAL 38 Wild, Scenic, and Recreation Rivers which are Doug/Andy designated by Congress, recommended for designation or are eligible for designation, will be managed to protect their free flowing nature and outstandingly remarkable values. OBJECTIVE 38.01 Manage approximately 41miles of streams Andy in the three different classifications of eligibility. Refer to Appendix D of the EIS for river classifications and their respective Outstandingly Remarkable Values. OBJECTIVE 38.02 During the 10 year period, complete NA suitability study on Tellico, Hiwassee, and Elk Rivers and Beaverdam Creek. GOAL 39 All inventoried roadless areas shall be manage in Doug/Andy compliance with current rules and regulations concerning such areas. GOAL 40 Conserve, maintain, and enhance the scenic and Doug aesthetic values of the CNF. OBJECTIVE 40.01 Within the planning period, evaluate Doug Existing Scenic Integrity of Forest lands, including new acquisition, and set priorities to rehabilitate areas that do not meet the SIO specified by management prescription OBJECTIVE 40.02 Create and maintain cleared observation Two sites in aa Doug points along the CNF’s two scenic byways, including ten (10) existing along Cherohala Scenic Skyway and eight (8) existing along Ocoee Scenic Byway. OBJECTIVE 40.03 Map lands viewed in the foreground from Doug the CNF’s nationally designated trails, including Appalachian National Scenic Trail, Warriors Passage National Recreation Trail, John Muir National Recreation Trail, Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail, and Unicoi Turnpike National Millennium Trail.

2004 Revised Plan Goals & Objectives Existing Opportunities Possible Condition Management Practices GOAL 41 Manage CNF to provide a variety of Landscape Doug Character Themes with the predominant themes being Natural Appearing, Natural Evolving and variations of these themes that include Pastoral/Agricultural, Historic/Cultural, Rural/Forested and Urban. GOAL 42 Manage areas with special scenic, geological, Unknown Significant paleontological, cultural, or heritage characteristics to maintain or cultural and restore those characteristics. heritage resource sites will be maintained or restored pursuant to and in compliance with the terms and conditions of the National Historic Preservation Act and the Programmatic Agreement between the Tennessee State Historic Preservation Office and the Forest Service. Doug/Andy GOAL 43 A systemic program of heritage resource inventory, See Goal 42 evaluation, and preservation aimed at the identification, enhancement and protection of significant heritage resource values is implemented. Integration of heritage resource management concerns is emphasized, as is coordination with the public, scientific community, ethnic groups, and interested federally recognized tribal governments. OBJECTIVE 43.01 Within the 10-year period, See Goal 43 preservation/maintenance plans are developed for historic administrative and recreational facilities. OBJECTIVE 43.02 Opportunities are provided for the public to See Goal 43 observe or to participate in all phases of Forest Service heritage management. Partnerships are developed with external organizations, groups, tribes, and individuals to provide a public service through heritage resource. OBJECTIVE 43.03 Provide protection for heritage sites that See Goal 43 preserves the integrity of scientific data that they contain, for the benefit of the public, tribal, and scientific communities. OBJECTIVE 43.04 Reduce the existing backlog of heritage This objective will sites needing formal evaluation. be addressed pursuant to and in compliance with existing Regional Forest Service goals and objectives.

2004 Revised Plan Goals & Objectives Existing Opportunities Possible Condition Management Practices GOAL 44 Sound range management practices help to maintain NA important forest openings and aesthetically pleasing pastoral settings. OBJECTIVE 44.01 A minimum of 230 acres of pastures and old NA fields are maintained through livestock grazing. GOAL 45 Manage mineral resources to meet demands for No leases or Mineral None energy and non-energy minerals permits are development known to exist applications will receive appropriate consideration if received GOAL 46 Where reserved or outstanding mineral rights are Status atlas If applications Specify in terms involved, the mineral owner is encourage to implement all indicates 9 received to of leases or surface-disturbing activities outside riparian areas. holders of develop minerals, permits that mineral rights. FS can specify surface (see attached) terms and disturbing conditions in activities should leases or be outside permits. riparian areas GOAL 47 Construct, reconstruct and maintain roads to reduce See TAP See TAP See TAP sediment delivery to water bodies. GOAL 48 Provide a transportation system that supplies safe and See TAP See TAP See TAP efficient access for forest users while protecting forest resources. Emphasize acquisition of rights-of-way or fee-simple titles as appropriate to facilitate maintenance and meet access needs. GOAL 49 Decommission unneeded roads (classified and See TAP See TAP See TAP unclassified). OBJECTIVE 49.01 Decommission unneeded roads that are See TAP See TAP See TAP identified through interdisciplinary process. GOAL 50 Identify and upgrade highly used forest roads needed See TAP See TAP See TAP for public access and other roads that are needed but are adversely affecting surrounding resource values and conditions. OBJECTIVE 50.01 Coordinate funding from sources such as See TAP See TAP See TAP the Public Forest Service Roads Program to perform deferred maintenance activities and upgrade high used roads and needed roads that are adversely affecting surrounding resource values. Where appropriate, seek to transfer jurisdiction and maintenance to counties. GOAL 51 Construct new NFSR only where allowed by See TAP See TAP See TAP prescription and where existing roads are inadequate to meet the need.

2004 Revised Plan Goals & Objectives Existing Opportunities Possible Condition Management Practices GOAL 52 Utility corridors and communication sites on NFS 6 utility lines Utilize existing Deny proposals lands are located and managed to minimize adverse 1 comm. site sites and that do not environmental, social, and impacts to scenery; minimize acres of corridors where minimize land affected; designed using good engineering and technological feasible. Work impacts, clearly practices; and clearly benefit society. with proponents benefit society, during screening and only benefit on one individual locations/designs when they cannot clearly demonstrate that NFS lands are necessity. GOAL 53 NFS lands are consolidated to improve management 1 block of Determine if Seek funding and effectiveness and enhance public benefits. private exists public ownership acquisition of south of of said block is in private block if Tumbling the public interest analysis shows Creek CG and/or needed to that acquisition is completely accomplish long- in the public surrounded by term goals and interest. NFS. Approx. objectives for the 50+ parcels in Forest. the block. GOAL 54 Boundary lines are located to NFS standards and ???/Andy maintained on a rotational basis. OBJECTIVE 54.01 Boundary lines are to be survey and ???/Andy marked to NFS standard and maintained on an 8-10 year rotational basis. GOAL 55 Resolve all known title claims and encroachments ??? affecting NFS lands. OBJECTIVE 55.01 Title claims and encroachments affecting None known at Research lands Contact possible lands are to be document prioritized for resolution each fiscal this time. and special uses trespassers and year and resolved within the constraints of the applicable files for ongoing claimants to seek authority. or existing title resolution within claims and the applicable encroachments. laws. Survey possible trespasses where boundaries are not clearly identified. GOAL 1.A-1 The Government will seek to acquire private A filing cabinet Prioritize title Document title mineral rights through purchase, exchange, or donation. Until exists at the claims and claims and such private rights are acquired, the exercise of reserved and Ocoee Ranger encroachments encroachments outstanding mineral rights to explore and develop mineral Station that during Quarter 1 and resolution resources will be respected. contains claims each fiscal year. achieved. File and Retain a master title claims, encroachments list of resolved encroachments, . The District cases organized and resolutions has addressed by fiscal year. using file code and resolved 5400. claims as they have arisen.

2004 Revised Plan Goals & Objectives Existing Opportunities Possible Condition Management Practices GOAL 1.A-2 Pursue the purchase of outstanding or reserved None known. None None subsurface mineral rights within the A.T., wilderness or roadless areas recommended for wilderness study. 1.B No goals/objectives 5.A No goals/objectives 5.B No goals/objectives 7.A No goals/objectives 7.D No goals/objectives OBJECTIVE 8.C-1.01 Strive for a 125-year rotation. Manage Early Early 305-697 Even age and 2 forest successional stages to maintain a minimum of 65 percent Hogback 85 Mid 919 age regen of forested acres in mid- late-successional forest, including old Regen 2 Late 3164 growth; a minimum of 20 percent of forested acres in late- Total 87 successional forest, including old growth; and 4 to 8 percent in Mid-Late 7310 early-successional forest. Late 5131 GOAL 9.F-1 Maintain and restore rare communities found on CNF lands. No rare N/A communities N/A defined OBJECTIVE 9.F-1.01 Pursue opportunities to acquire lands to ensure and augment ecological viability of these areas. unknown unknown N/A OBJECTIVE 9.F-1.02 Based on periodic monitoring of known rare community sites, identify management activities needed to maintain or restore characteristic structure, composition, and N/A N/A N/A function of these communities, and implement an annual program of work designed to meet these needs. OBJECTIVE 9.F-1.03 Develop management plans for 26 known rare community sites (Appendix E). N/A N/A N/A OBJECTIVE 9.F-1.04 Restore at least 500 acres of table- mountain pine forest on lands not currently dominated by table- mountain pine over the next ten-year period. Known none Look for opportunity. Pburn and or regenerate. OBJECTIVE 9.F-1.05 To maintain table-mountain pine forests, prescribe burn an average of 160 acres of this type each year. NA GOAL 9.F-2 Develop implement, and test methods for restoring spruce-fir forest to areas historically occupied by them. NA NA GOAL 9.F-3 Cooperate in efforts to minimize adverse effects of acid precipitation and balsam woolly adelgid on spruce-fir communities. NA NA GOAL 9.F-4 Develop cooperative relationships with private landowners to maintain or establish habitat corridors between patches of spruce-fir habitat. NA NA OBJECTIVE 9.F-4.01 Maintain all existing acres (642 acres) of montane spruce-fir forest. With the involvement of the Research Branch and other cooperators, consider restoration of up to 100 NA NA additional areas of montane spruce-fir forest to areas historically occupied by them, excluding grassy and heath balds.

2004 Revised Plan Goals & Objectives Existing Opportunities Possible Condition Management Practices OBJECTIVE 9.F-4.02 Develop site-specific management plans for each significant cave to meet the intent of the Federal Cave No caves NA Resources Protection Act. known OBJECTIVE 9.H-1.01 Manage forest successional stages to Early 0 Early 11-28 maintain a minimum of 50 percent of forested acres in mid- late- Mid-Late 257 Mid -116 successional forest, including old growth; a minimum of 20 Late 12 Late 44 Regenerate percent of forested acres in late-successional forest, including old growth; and 4 to 10 percent in early-successional forest. GOAL 11-1 Riparian ecosystems, wetlands and aquatic systems Road 221L Improve water Repair road are managed (and where necessary restored) to protect and is adversely quality and maintain their soil, water, vegetation, fish and wildlife associated resources. affecting the access riparian zone

North Prong Restrict Brown camp vehicle access Branch, area and near rehabilitate Tumbling Creek and Rough Creek are impacted by dispersed camping. Jim has better data OBJECTIVE 11-1.01 Maintain a current inventory of Road 221L Improve water Repair road improvement needs for riparian areas and wetlands, Prioritize and is adversely quality and implement riparian improvement needs base on watershed analysis and stream condition inventories. affecting the access riparian zone

North Prong Restrict Brown camp vehicle access Branch, area and near rehabilitate Tumbling Creek and Rough Creek are impacted by dispersed camping. Jim has better data

2004 Revised Plan Goals & Objectives Existing Opportunities Possible Condition Management Practices GOAL 11-2 Streams are managed in a manner that results in a Big, Rough & Increase fish Install cover logs minimum of 200 pieces of large woody debris (LWD) per stream Tumbling hiding cover especially in Big mile. Creek Creeks support trout and bass GOAL 11-3 Aquatic habitat conditions are suitable to maintain Only TES Improve status Assist Lee viable populations of aquatic species native to the planning area, species in the of the 2 existing University with and to support desirable levels of selected species (e.g., species monitoring with special habitat needs, TE&S species, species commonly Analysis populations fished, MIS or species of special interest). Area is the hellbender GOAL 11-4 Survey habitats and work with TWRA to re- No native Need to survey Re-introduce introduce native aquatic species into suitable habitats. species appear 9 stream species to have been reaches that determined to extirpated have never been have been inventoried extirpated (brook trout?) OBJECTIVE MA 3-1.01 In the Ocoee River watershed, See TAP See TAP See TAP priority Forest Service Roads to maintain and improve to reduce the movement of accelerate sediment from roads to tributary streams of the Ocoee River include 55, 67, 1333, 366, 302, and 374.. OBJECTIVE MA 3-1.05 Evaluate the condition of dispersed Andy recreation areas located in riparian areas. Prioritize and implement treatment needs to improve riparian condition and reduce accelerated sediment delivery to streams. OBJECTIVE MA 2-1.02 Maintain and improve the condition See TAP See TAP See TAP of Forest Service Roads 221 and 45 to reduce the movement of accelerated sediment from the roads to tributary streams of the Ocoee River including Tumbling Creek, Rough Creek, and Short Creek.